DBT Therapists in Kentucky

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured, skills-based approach designed to help individuals navigate intense emotions, strengthen relationships, and develop effective coping strategies. Originally created for those with borderline personality disorder, DBT is now widely used to support people facing mood disorders, self-harm, and other emotional challenges. With 28 DBT-trained therapists in Kentucky, you can access specialized care focused on mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is welcoming new clients, with timely availability to help you build emotional resilience and lead a more balanced life.

Availability updated: 10/29/2025

Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 30 ratings

Tracy Rugg

LCSW, 4 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I have worked in the field of Social Work for 25 years at the Bachelor's level, including case management for at-risk youth, CPS investigations and medical social work. I received my Master's of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville and have been practicing four years. I assist adults dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma with recognizing triggers/barriers to successful living and then learning to effectively reframe in order to be a better version of themselves.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 95 ratings

April Skidgel

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+10
I am a LCSW with 20 years of experience working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, burnout and other mental health issues. I help identify root issues and work with my clients to better understand their therapeutic goals. I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are experiencing challenges in their lives or relationships. My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative and tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. I believe everyone has the capacity for growth and positive change and I am here to support you on your journey towards greater emotional well-being and fulfillment.
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Lella Still

LCSW, 15 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Mood Disorders
Serious Mental Illness
Suicidal Ideation
+9
Hi there- I'm Dr. Lella Still. For the past 15 years, I've worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, in a variety of roles from direct patient care to leadership. I have been independently licensed as a clinical social worker since 2013 and obtained my doctorate in social work in 2023. I have since transitioned out of inpatient care, but I have a strong desire to maintain that connection to clinical work and help individuals who are struggling. I have a particular interest and expertise in Serious Mental Illness (SMI), those suffering with mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. I would also love to work with individuals who are caregivers for individuals with SMI.
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Rated 4.6 stars out of 5, 14 ratings

Neha Mahboob

LPCC, 4 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello everyone! My name is Neha Mahboob, MACMHC, LPCC. I am a clinician working in the beautiful state Kentucky. I have been working as a clinician for 5 years and very happy with the career I have chosen as it gives me the opportunity to help those who need it. I am a firm believer in having a healthy mental/emotional mindset as it sets the stage for a healthy physical state. I help individuals find their inner-peace by giving them tools/techniques to utilize.
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Joy Messer

LPCC, 9 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
+8
Hello, I’m Joy Messer, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor dedicated to helping children, teens, and adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Play Therapy to help clients build insight, resilience, and healthier coping skills. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and move toward personal growth and emotional well-being.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Samiyra Shabazz-Dixon

LCSW, 7 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+9
Hello! I am Samiyra a LCSW in the state of Kentucky. I received my education from the University of Kentucky where I completed my BSW and MSW. I enjoy partnering with my clients to take the difficulties of life and encouraging them to see the strength embedded inside of them. I understand that trying therapy for the first time can be scary or overwhelming. A warm and comforting provider can make any experience easier which is what I aim to do for my clients. I have experience working with couples, those struggling with addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal thought, PTSD etc.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 27 ratings

Helena Lear

LCSW, 9 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi, I'm Helena (Hell-in-uh)! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 10 years of experience! I like to emphasize that at the heart of my practice, I am a Social Worker and I approach my work from that perspective. I acknowledge that there are barriers we all experience to living our best lives and that certain people experience more and worse barriers because of who they are. My work is most rewarding when I get to help folks level the playing field by accessing the support, validation and compassion they need.
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Carina Schroedel

LCSW, 10 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Addiction
Coping Skills
Substance Misuse
Carina Schroedel, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in substance use, co-occurring disorders, trauma, and emotional burnout. I help clients rediscover peace, balance, and self-trust after chaos or loss. My approach is compassionate and grounded in real life — not just theory. Through evidence-based therapy and authentic connection, I help people build healthier coping skills, repair relationships, and feel more at home within themselves. My goal is to help you heal at your own pace and find strength in your story.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Maureen Worden

LCSW, 3 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
Autism
Depression
+5
I’m a mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based care. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from modalities such as CBT, DBT, Play Therapy techniques, Solution Focused, ERP, and mindfulness to name a few. I am guided by the belief that healing is possible and that every person deserves to live a life of meaning and connection. Clients often describe me as warm, insightful, and present. I believe therapy is not just about solving problems—it’s about discovering your strengths, rewriting old narratives, and building a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here to walk alongside you.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Brock D'Alessandri

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Eating Disorders
Life Transitions
Phobias
+10
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Kentucky. I understand that seeking help takes courage, and I believe that real, lasting change—though often difficult—is always possible. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in mutual respect. I consider it a privilege to hear your story, support your healing process, and help you move toward the life you want to live. You deserve to feel seen, supported, and empowered—through an approach that feels right to you.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 19 ratings

Michael Holmes

LPCC, 5 years of experience

Humorous
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Serious Mental Illness
+10
My name is Michael Holmes, Jr. and I serve as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have 7 years of experience overall in the Mental Health Field and 5 years of experience as a Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in the areas of grief, anxiety, interpersonal effectiveness, depression, trauma, mindfulness and anger. I utilize therapy approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) where I'm certified, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Virtual
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Joe Kephart

LCSW, 8 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Grief
LGBTQ
Sexual Abuse
+10
Hello, I am Joe Kephart, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker based in Lexington, Kentucky. I bring over 20 years of leadership experience and a strong background in mental health, social work, and supportive care. I’ve worked in private practice and healthcare settings, providing psychosocial assessments, treatment planning, and integrated care. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky, and I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges with compassion, collaboration, and practical support. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported — especially in the moments when life feels overwhelming, complicated, or painful. I specialize in helping adults navigate grief, childhood sexual abuse/trauma, and identity with compassion and clarity. My practice is grounded in creating a safe, judgment-free space where you can explore difficult emotions, reclaim your voice, and begin to heal. I blend evidence-based practices such as trauma-informed CBT, mindfulness, and narrative therapy with a relational, person-centered approach. You’ll find me warm, honest, and direct — someone who will walk alongside you with both empathy and accountability. Healing is hard work, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to begin or continue your journey, I’m here to help.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 27 ratings

Jade Knight

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Empowering
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in Kentucky. I received my Masters from the University of Kentucky and have been practicing for 11 years. I help teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma to overcome these challenges. Together we will make a plan to help you achieve your goals and live your best life. Change is possible! PLS MSG ME DIRECTLY TO SCHEDULE. I am having calendar sync issues. Thanks!
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Shawnnesha Mahoney

LCSW, 6 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+2
Hi, I'm Shawn! I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in Kentucky with a master's degree in social work and 6 years of hands-on experience. My focus is on creating a safe, welcoming space where clients can be fully themselves- no masks, just authenticity. I believe therapy should feel like home, a place filled with understanding, comfort, and even laughter, because healing doesn't always have to be heavy. My goal is to help clients gain the self-awareness and confidence needed to create lasting positive change in their lives.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Cha’Reme Poynter

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Addiction
Family Therapy
Serious Mental Illness
+10
You are not broken — you are becoming. I believe healing begins at the intersection of truth, safety, and purpose. I provide a safe and empowering space for individuals navigating trauma, identity wounds, life transitions, and relational patterns that no longer serve them. Whether depression, addiction, unresolved trauma, marital woes or seeking emotional steadiness as a first responder. I am here to offer support and a judgment-free, solution-based environment. Trust the process.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 57 ratings

Raven P.

LCSW, 13 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Parenting
+10
Hello and welcome to my practice! I believe that mind, body, and spirit are all interconnected. Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you are going. I am here as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in practice since 2012, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, and parenting. I also support persons of color experiencing systemic challenges. I am proud of you for taking the first step towards therapy. Change can be hard and taking this first step is not always easy. I aim to provide a safe, judgment free space to anyone looking for help and wanting positive change. We will address your thoughts and feelings at a pace that works best for you. My therapy style is supportive, reassuring, accepting, and genuine. In our therapeutic relationship, I will provide tools you need to reach your goals. You will do all the heavy lifting, but I will be here to support and encourage change.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 68 ratings

Rachel Richard

LPCC, 28 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I'm Rachel Richard! With over 25 years of experience as a licensed counselor, I specialize in helping people manage anxiety and depression, overcome trauma, and navigate life's everyday challenges. I hold a Master's Degree in Community/Mental Health Counseling from the University of Cincinnati and I am licensed in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. My commitment lies in providing evidence-based practices that help clients manage their emotions and reduce unhelpful thought patterns while empowering them to confidently cope with life's challenges and achieve their goals. My approach is strengths-based and solution-focused, with specialties in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. For those open to a holistic approach, I also incorporate Somatic Therapy to connect mind and body.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Lauren Holder

LCSW, 4 years of experience

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Life isn’t meant to be just about survival—you deserve more than just getting by. I’m here to help you discover a brighter, more fulfilling future where you can truly thrive. My name is Lauren, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Lexington, Kentucky. With over 11 years of experience in social work and 4 years of experience as a mental health clinician, I’ve worked with individuals facing some of life’s toughest challenges. Using approaches like CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness, I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs and goals. My number one priority is creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. I know how overwhelming life’s challenges can feel, and I believe that no one should have to face them alone. Therapy is a space where we can face the hard things together, build trust, and work toward healing. Safety and understanding are the foundation of our work because without them, true growth isn’t possible.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 40 ratings

Sandra Boone (Sandi)

LPCC, 8 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Mood Disorders
+6
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of Kentucky. I have experience in treating substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, parenting children with disabilities and women's issues. I have worked in a multitude of settings including community mental health, outpatient substance abuse centers and have developed a plethora of experience in meeting clients where they are at for the best possible outcomes.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 21 ratings

Jayme Begley

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello! My name is Jayme Begley, LCSW and I am a seasoned social worker with over 15 years of experience in various areas of Social Work. I provide a kind and compassionate therapeutic environment for my clients to share their stories. I consider it an honor to walk shoulder to shoulder with my clients through their healing journey. I believe in having open and honest communication in the therapy room at whatever pace my clients feel comfortable. My goal is to guide my clients to living healthy lives physically, emotionally and spiritually.
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Rated 4.5 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Victoria Serrano

LPCC, 30 years of experience

Solution oriented
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

LGBTQ
Substance Misuse
Women's Issues
+4
My name is Victoria Serrano. I’ve worked in the mental health and substance abuse fields for over 25 years. I believe connection and community are essential in building and maintaining healthy lives. No one is meant to go it alone. Not everyone has the support they need. I work to support, understand, and empower clients toward their goals. I offer individual and relationship therapy for adults 18 and older. I have years of successful experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, substance abuse issues, life stress, LGBTQIA concerns, womens issues, and religious trauma recovery.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Yolmar Rodriguez-Chacon

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi! My name is Yolmar Rodriguez-Chacon and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I believe that during challenging times, we need someone who is on our side, who understands our situation and can help during dark times. I will serve as a guide, and walk by your side throughout your individual process, while you develop trustworthy insight and learn to understand yourself.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Melinda Simpson

LCSW, 18 years of experience

Direct
Solution oriented
Humorous

Specialties

Grief
Anxiety
Career Counseling
+8
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Kentucky. Life is full of change and transitions. We can't always control the events in our lives, but we can choose how we respond to them. My goal as a therapist is to provide education and support to people as they learn how to integrate changes into their life story. I believe we all need someone in our lives who provides a safe, nonjudgmental safe space to ask difficult questions and express unfiltered thoughts and emotions. I do more than listen. I teach coping skills as well as provide direct, respectful feedback.
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Rated 4.6 stars out of 5, 22 ratings

Ashley Paxton-Watts

LCSW, 22 years of experience

Solution oriented
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Personality Disorders
+19
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kentucky, Georgia, and Florida. I have been practicing in behavioral health for 22 years and I have a diverse background to help with your current struggles and condition. I provide individual therapy, family therapy, and couples counseling. I help Patients with newly diagnosed conditions and ways to cope with ongoing health problems and life challenges. My specialty is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EFT, family systems modalities, the Gottman Method, Solution Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, TF-CBT, NLP and Life Coaching, Psychoeducation, and Motivational Interviewing. I provide EAP counseling and help with workplace concerns and employment/employer issues. I help Patients reach effective solutions to their varied challenges and needs. I believe that each individual can overcome struggles and learn ways to self-heal. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of issues including PTSD, trauma, personality disorders, serious mental illness (SMI), sleep difficulties, anxiety, stress, career difficulties and workplace concerns, suicidality, self-injury, abuse and neglect, anger, depression, low self-esteem, grief and loss, ADHD, aggression, impulsivity, parenting stress, interpersonal problems, and adjustment issues and transitions. I help with family conflicts, marital problems, relationship struggles, and couples in varying stages of their relationship from pre-marital counseling, divorce, remarriage, co-parenting, blended family issues, and family court-related issues. I help empower Patients and guide them to self-discovery, expand and develop healthy coping strategies, problem-solve, and learn skills to help themselves to handle life challenges. My commitment is to help you grow and make changes that are important to you to move forward in life and cope more effectively. It takes courage to ask for help and I am here to support you.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 18 ratings

Kasey Teasley

LPCC, 7 years of experience

Open-minded
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Mood Disorders
Spirituality
+9
Hello! I am a dedicated and licensed professional in Kentucky, holding qualifications as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol Drug Counselor, specializing in substance abuse treatment and mental health care. I earned my Master of Education degree from Lindsey Wilson College in December 2021 and am currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision from the same institution, further deepening my expertise in the field. With seven years of hands-on experience, my focus has been on empowering individuals struggling with substance abuse and alcoholism to achieve lasting recovery. Additionally, I specialize in addressing various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach is rooted in compassion, evidence-based practices, and a commitment to providing comprehensive and personalized care to each client. I strive to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can explore their challenges, foster resilience, and work towards achieving their personal goals for mental wellness and a fulfilling life.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Rachel Fondren

LCSW, 13 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Personality Disorders
+10
Hello! My name is Rachel Fondren and I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and private independent practitioner. I graduated from the University of North Alabama with a Bachelors in Social Work and from the University of Southern California with a Masters in Social Work. Over the years, I have worked with individuals on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD, and Serious Mental Illnesses.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 7 ratings

Claudia Hempill

LPCC, 19 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Each person has a natural inclination toward wholeness. Sometimes that movement gets stifled—by circumstances, stress, or seasons of life—and counseling can help at any age. My office is a place to explore who you are and address what’s getting in the way—whether fear, trauma, mental health concerns, or the very practical question of what to do when your child has a meltdown in the grocery aisle. Therapy with me is a partnership. You’re the expert on your life; I bring training, perspective, and practical tools. We’ll blend skills you can use right away with deeper work at a pace that feels safe. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Existential Therapy, and Jungian psychology, informed by Stoic and existential philosophies. As a certified yoga instructor, I integrate awareness, meditation, and gentle movement when helpful. I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and with children I use child-centered play therapy. I’m licensed in Ohio and Kentucky.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 5 ratings

Heather Dickman

LPCC, 10 years of experience

Warm
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

Family Therapy
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name is Heather Dickman, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with over 10 years of experience in the counseling field. I am committed to meeting individuals where they are in their journey and providing a compassionate, supportive, and safe space for healing and growth. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life, and at times, that journey benefits from professional support. It is a true privilege to be invited into the lives of those seeking guidance, and I approach this work with deep respect and care.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Kentucky rather than a city like Louisville?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Kentucky from Bowling Green to Lexington! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Kentucky.

Will my therapist take insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.