Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Options

Individual Psychotherapy

Many people feel unsure about how to begin, or worry they won’t be able to find someone. A helpful first step is to search therapist directories like Psychology Today or your insurance company’s provider list. It’s often best to contact several therapists at once, since some may have limited availability or waitlists.

If you don’t hear back right away, try not to get discouraged—this is very common. With a little persistence, most people are able to connect with a therapist who is a good fit.

Directories:

Psychology Today — search for licensed therapists by location, insurance, specialty, and whether they offer in-person or telehealth appointments

TherapyDen — search for therapists by location, specialty, insurance, and identity-affirming care (such as LGBTQ+ or culturally responsive therapy)

Open Path Psychotherapy Collective — nonprofit directory that connects people with licensed therapists who offer lower-cost sessions, usually $40–$70, either in-person or online, making therapy more affordable and accessible

Insurance company’s provider directory — lists therapists, counselors, and mental health professionals who are in-network, showing their specialties, locations, and whether they accept new patients, helping you find covered care that fits your plan

Group Therapy & Support Groups

Group therapy brings together a small number of individuals with similar concerns to meet regularly with a licensed clinician. It can offer support, shared perspective, and skill-building in a collaborative setting. While I do not offer group therapy, I’m happy to help point you toward appropriate options.

You can search for local or virtual groups through directories like Psychology Today (filter by “group therapy”), check with local hospitals or community mental health centers, or ask your primary care provider or therapist for recommendations.

Support groups are typically peer-led (not always facilitated by a clinician) and focus on shared experiences, connection, and mutual support. They’re often more informal than therapy groups and can be a helpful, low-cost way to feel less alone, learn from others, and build community.

You can search for local or virtual options through organizations like National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Mental Health America, or directories like Psychology Today. Many hospitals, community centers, and faith-based organizations also host groups.

PHP & IOP

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) are structured, intensive outpatient programs that provide several hours of treatment per day, typically 5 days per week, while you continue living at home. They often include a combination of group therapy, medication management, and skill-building. PHPs are a good option when you need a higher level of support than weekly visits but do not require inpatient hospitalization.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) offer a step down from PHPs, with treatment usually a few hours per day, several days per week. They focus on group therapy, coping skills, and ongoing support while allowing more flexibility for work, school, or family responsibilities.

Referrals and How to Find Programs:

Some PHPs and IOPs allow self-referral, meaning you can contact the program directly to schedule an intake. Others require a referral from a provider (such as a therapist, primary care clinician, or psychiatric provider). I’m happy to help determine the best fit and provide a referral if needed.

Programs are commonly offered through hospitals, behavioral health centers, and specialty clinics. You can search directories like Psychology Today, check local hospital systems, or use Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s treatment locator to explore options.