Therapy 101
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. These guides cover the basics—from what to expect in your first session, to understanding the costs, to exploring different approaches and finding support for challenges like anxiety. Each resource is designed to make the process clearer and less intimidating, so you can focus on what matters most: taking care of your mental health.
Getting Therapy
Deciding to start therapy
Thinking about therapy but not sure if you really “need” it? This article teaches you about the emotional, behavioral, and everyday signs that it might be time to talk to someone.
Common therapy challenges
Feeling stuck in therapy? This article explores 7 common therapy challenges and simple ways to work through them so you can keep making steady progress.
Your relationship with your therapist
A strong relationship with your therapist can shape your entire experience in therapy. This article explains why it matters and what healthy boundaries look like. We'll also walk you through how to handle questions and emotional moments along the way.
Ways therapy can help
Therapy isn’t just for tough times. This article explores how it can help you manage stress, strengthen relationships, and feel more connected to yourself.
Paying for Therapy
Beginners guide to insurance
Learn about how health insurance works, types of plans, costs, coverage details, key terms, special programs like HSAs and COBRA, qualifying life events, and how to understand mental health coverage within your insurance.
Cost of therapy
Therapy costs vary widely based on insurance coverage, provider credentials, and treatment type. This article covers session pricing, insurance benefits, affordable alternatives, session length expectations, and whether therapy's investment delivers lasting mental health value.
Paying for therapy
Therapy costs vary widely based on insurance coverage and provider choice. This guide explains insurance basics, government programs like Medicaid and Medicare, alternative payment methods, and solutions to common billing obstacles.
Therapy covered by EAP, HSA or FSA
Learn about HSAs, FSAs, and EAPs as financial tools to make therapy and mental health care more affordable, including eligible expenses, key differences, and how employers support access to mental health services.
Anxiety
Signs and symptoms of anxiety
Anxiety affects body, mind, and behavior—from chest tightness and racing thoughts to avoidance and irritability. In this article you will learn common signs, how symptoms vary, what worsens them, and practical ways to get relief.
Separation anxiety disorder
Separation anxiety isn’t just for kids. Learn how it can affect people of all ages, what causes it, and how evidence-based therapy can help you or your loved one feel more secure and connected.
Agoraphobia
Living with agoraphobia can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments is the first step toward feeling safe and in control again.
The causes of anxiety
Anxiety can stem from many sources, including biology, health, trauma, and daily stress. In this article you will learn the root causes, triggers, and factors that shape anxiety so you can better understand and manage it.
Types of Therapy
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and commitment therapy blends mindfulness, acceptance, and value-based living to improve mental health. You will learn its origins, core principles, effectiveness, common applications, and what ACT sessions typically look like
Emotionally focused therapy (EFT)
Emotionally focused therapy helps individuals, couples, and families understand and regulate emotions to build stronger relationships. This article covers information about its origins, applications, therapeutic process, effectiveness research, and how to find qualified EFT therapists.
Eclectic therapy
Eclectic therapy combines techniques from various therapeutic modalities to create personalized treatment plans. In this article you'll learn about its origins, when it's used, different types, how sessions work, and how to find qualified therapists.
Adlerian therapy
Adlerian therapy emphasizes social connection, belonging, and personal growth. This article highlights its origins, when it’s most effective, how it works in practice, key techniques, evidence of effectiveness, and how to find an Adlerian therapist
Therapy Platform Comparisons
Grow Therapy vs. BetterHelp
Grow Therapy and BetterHelp offer different approaches to finding mental health support. Explore how each online therapy platform works so you can choose what fits your needs.
Grow Therapy vs. Headway
Headway vs. Grow Therapy — here's how the two platforms compare on insurance, specialties, and cost.
Grow Therapy vs. Brightside
Comparing the two popular online therapy platforms to help you choose the right support for your mental health needs.
Grow Therapy vs. Talkiatry
Both Grow Therapy and Talkiatry help people find a psychiatrist for medication management. Which platform offers the best experience and providers for you?
Types of Therapists
Overview
Confused by therapist credentials and license types? This guide breaks down what they mean and how to find the right therapist for your needs.
What is an LMFT and should you see one for therapy?
An LMFT specializes in the dynamics between people — not just within one person. Here's what licensed marriage and family therapists do and how to find one.
Psychotherapist
"Psychotherapist" sounds clinical, but the term is simpler than you think. Here's what it means, how it differs from other titles, and how to find the right one.
What Is an LPCC?
An LPCC is a licensed mental health professional trained to treat anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. Here's what the credential means and how to find one.
Insurance
Verifying coverage for therapy
Most insurance plans cover therapy — but the specifics depend on your plan. Here's how to verify your benefits, understand your costs, and find a therapist who takes your insurance.
Insurance 101
Health insurance covers therapy — but understanding what you'll actually pay takes a little digging. Here's how coverage works and how to make the most of your plan.
Insurance and privacy
A clear guide to coverage, HIPAA, and what stays between you and your therapist.
Insurance plans
A payor is the entity — insurance company, employer, or government program — that helps cover the cost of your care. Here's how insurance coverage for therapy actually works.