Finding the right counselor in Nashville can feel overwhelming, but these five practices offer a range of specialties and approaches to help you start your healing journey.
The Nashville Counseling Landscape
Nashville's mental health scene is as diverse as its music scene, with practices ranging from solo practitioners to large group clinics. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, or trauma, there's a therapist who fits your needs. Many practices now offer both in-person and virtual sessions, making care more accessible than ever. The city's growth has brought a wave of new counseling options, each with its own unique philosophy and specialty. From evidence-based approaches to holistic methods, you'll find a wide spectrum of care. This roundup highlights five practices that stand out for their commitment to helping Nashville residents thrive.
How We Evaluated These Practices
We looked at each practice's service scope, pricing transparency, and local fit. Service scope covers the range of therapy types offered, from individual to couples and specialized modalities. Pricing clarity considers how upfront each practice is about costs and insurance. Local fit assesses how well the practice integrates into Nashville's community and addresses common local concerns. We also noted each practice's unique strengths, such as specialized training or a particular therapeutic focus. This approach helps you see what each practice excels at, so you can choose based on your personal needs.
Here's a quick snapshot of each practice to help you compare at a glance.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Nashville Therapy Group | A wide range of specialties and a large team |
| Kari Smith, LCSW | Personalized care with a solo practitioner |
| Sage Hill Counseling | A holistic approach with intensives and workshops |
| The Briggs Institute | Outcome-focused therapy with measurable results |
| Nashville Psych | Therapy plus psychological assessment services |
A Closer Look at Each Practice
#1 Nashville Therapy Group
A screenshot of the Nashville Therapy Group website.
Nashville Therapy Group is a large, multidisciplinary practice with a team of over 50 therapists, offering a wide range of services including individual, couples, and group therapy. They specialize in areas like EMDR, trauma, eating disorders, and support for artists and creative professionals, making them a versatile choice for many. With offices in Nashville, East Nashville, Brentwood, and online, they make it easy to find a location that works for you. Their extensive team means you're likely to find a therapist who matches your specific needs and personality. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, or seeking specialized care, this group has a provider for you. They also offer holistic health and wellness services, integrating mind and body approaches.
#2 Kari Smith, LCSW
A screenshot of the Kari Smith, LCSW website.
Kari Smith, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker offering individual and couples counseling in Nashville, TN. Her practice focuses on creating a safe, welcoming environment where you can share your feelings and tell your story. She has broad experience in women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, grief, addiction, and infidelity. Kari offers both in-person and virtual sessions, with individual counseling at $135 per therapeutic hour and couples counseling at $150 per session. She accepts some insurances and provides super-bills for reimbursement, making her services more accessible. Her personal, one-on-one approach is ideal if you prefer a more intimate setting.
#3 Sage Hill Counseling
A screenshot of the Sage Hill Counseling website.
Sage Hill Counseling provides individual, couples, and group counseling in Nashville, TN, with a focus on helping you find meaning in your struggle. Their team of experienced therapists, including owners Beth Christenberry, Cresson Haugland, and Sarah Norris, offers a supportive and beautiful space for healing. They emphasize that counseling isn't a quick fix but a path to healing, and they're committed to walking alongside you. Sage Hill offers intensives and workshops in addition to regular sessions, providing options for deeper work. Their client care coordinator helps match you with the right counselor, ensuring a good fit. If you're looking for a practice that values connection and purpose, Sage Hill is a strong choice.
#4 The Briggs Institute
A screenshot of The Briggs Institute website.
The Briggs Institute, led by Dr. Justin Gregory Briggs, offers individual, couple, and family therapy in Nashville, TN. They focus on evidence-based outcomes, with data showing that clients typically move from distress to maintenance in just 2-5 sessions. The institute also provides consulting services for executives and high-profile individuals, bringing a unique perspective to therapy. Their approach is hard work, but they emphasize that change is possible with effort and openness. They offer both in-person and telehealth services across Tennessee. If you're looking for a results-driven practice, The Briggs Institute stands out.
#5 Nashville Psych
A screenshot of the Nashville Psych website.
Nashville Psych is a psychology practice offering individual, couples, and group therapy, along with comprehensive assessment and testing services. They specialize in anxiety, depression, EMDR, grief, and trauma, with a team of psychologists and therapists. Their assessment services include ADHD evaluations, psychoeducational testing, and autism spectrum evaluations, making them a resource for diagnostic clarity. They offer online therapy across Tennessee and have locations in Chattanooga, Memphis, and Knoxville. Nashville Psych also provides training groups and clinical supervision for therapists, showing their commitment to the field. If you need both therapy and psychological testing, this practice is a comprehensive option.
How to Choose the Right Practice for You
Start by identifying your primary concerns—whether it's anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, or something else. Consider the type of therapy you're looking for, such as individual, couples, or group, and whether you prefer in-person or virtual sessions. Think about the size of the practice: a solo practitioner like Kari Smith offers a personal touch, while a larger group like Nashville Therapy Group provides more options. Check if the practice accepts your insurance or offers super-bills, and review their pricing to ensure it fits your budget. Finally, trust your gut—schedule a consultation or initial session to see if you feel comfortable with the therapist. The right fit is crucial for effective therapy.
Streamlining Your Search for a Counselor
To make your search easier, you can use online directories like Psychology Today to filter by specialty, insurance, and location. Many practices, including those listed here, offer online scheduling or contact forms on their websites, so you can reach out quickly. Consider setting up a spreadsheet to compare each practice's services, pricing, and availability. You can also use telehealth platforms to expand your options beyond your immediate area. By automating the initial research, you can focus your energy on finding the right therapist for your needs.
Finding Your Path to Healing
Nashville is fortunate to have a rich array of counseling practices, each with its own strengths. Whether you're drawn to the personalized care of Kari Smith, the comprehensive services of Nashville Therapy Group, or the outcome-focused approach of The Briggs Institute, there's a place for you. Take the time to explore these options, ask questions, and trust your instincts. The right counselor can make a world of difference in your journey toward healing and growth. Remember, seeking help is a brave step, and you deserve support that fits you.