Interactive fit guide
Which mental-health provider may fit your needs?
Five short questions, no sign-up. We will suggest a licensure tier (LPC, LCSW, LMFT, psychologist, or psychiatrist) based on what you share. Your answers stay in your browser.
Intake form
Question 1 of 5
What brings you here today?
Choose the closest fit. We will refine from there.
Reference grid
If you would rather skip the questions
A quick map of common concerns and the licensure tiers most often suggested first. These are general patterns, not prescriptions.
| Concern | Often a good first call | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety, mild to moderate | LPC or LCSW | Cost-effective, evidence-based CBT and ACT. Cost range $80 to $150 per session. |
| Depression, mild to moderate | LPC or LCSW | CBT and behavioral activation are first-line. Most accessible starting point. |
| Depression with medication need | LPC or LCSW + psychiatrist | Combined therapy and medication often outperforms either alone for moderate to severe presentations. |
| ADHD evaluation | Psychologist | Psychologists administer comprehensive testing batteries. Cost range $1,000 to $5,000. |
| Autism assessment | Psychologist | Standardized testing instruments (ADOS-2, ADI-R) require a psychologist. |
| PTSD or trauma | Psychologist or trauma-trained LPC | Look for EMDR, CPT, or PE certification specifically. |
| Couples or relationship issues | LMFT | Entire graduate training in relationship dynamics; look for EFT or Gottman certified providers. |
| Bipolar concerns | Psychiatrist | Mood-stabilizer regimens require careful medical management. |
| Eating concerns | Psychologist or specialized LPC | Look for CBT-E training; psychiatrist may be added for co-occurring conditions. |
| Career stress or transitions | LPC | Career counseling is core LPC training. Often the most affordable option. |
Frequently asked
About the fit guide
What if I picked the wrong provider type?
It is common to start with one provider and discover that a different tier fits better. If your first session reveals that another type of provider is more appropriate, your current provider will usually say so and offer a referral. For example, if you start with an LPC and medication might help, they can refer you to a psychiatrist. The mental health system is designed for these handoffs.
Can I see more than one provider at a time?
Yes, and many people do. The most common combination is a therapist (LPC, LCSW, or psychologist) for weekly talk therapy plus a psychiatrist for monthly medication review. Some people also see an LMFT for couples work alongside individual therapy with an LPC. Make sure each provider knows about the others so they can coordinate care.
Is this guide a diagnosis?
No. The fit guide is a general suggestion based on the answers you share. It is not a diagnosis, treatment plan, or substitute for clinical assessment. A licensed mental-health professional can offer individualized guidance after a proper evaluation.