Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Mitchell Passadore, LPC-A, MA
Mitchell Passadore
Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I believe that anyone can benefit from counseling and that no matter where a person starts, they deserve respect and care. I am here to help people live better lives and uncover patterns in thoughts and behaviors that might be causing distress. For this process to be most helpful, it is important to find someone who fits well with who you already are. My goal is to help facilitate positive, lasting change and I believe that there is a counselor out there who can help make that happen.
I believe that anyone can benefit from counseling and that no matter where a person starts, they deserve respect and care. I am here to help people live better lives and uncover patterns in thoughts and behaviors that might be causing distress. For this process to be most helpful, it is important to find someone who fits well with who you already are. My goal is to help facilitate positive, lasting change and I believe that there is a counselor out there who can help make that happen.
(503) 549-4714 View (503) 549-4714
Photo of Graham Sterling, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Graham Sterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
It is my philosophy that each of us are on a path that encompasses understanding who we are in relation to our surroundings. Answers are found through interpersonal connections and within ourselves. It is my job to offer a safe, supportive space and the skilled assistance that allows you to discover your strengths and the tools necessary to overcome life's hurdles.
It is my philosophy that each of us are on a path that encompasses understanding who we are in relation to our surroundings. Answers are found through interpersonal connections and within ourselves. It is my job to offer a safe, supportive space and the skilled assistance that allows you to discover your strengths and the tools necessary to overcome life's hurdles.
(503) 980-1413 View (503) 980-1413
Photo of Lucy Sherman Emdr Intensive, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucy Sherman Emdr Intensive
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
You are OVER 50 MIN sessions and JUST talk! You are OVER feeling like you are starting to open up in therapy and then time runs out. EMDR Intensives (2 hrs a day, 3 days a week) and extended sessions in person can give the spaciousness needed to deeply process your experience so you can feel better faster. I specialize in helping highly sensitive women (HSP) who feel overwhelmed, hyper-vigilant and not trusting of self move toward feeling relief from childhood trauma, complex trauma, sexual trauma, and unprocessed grief. People-pleasing, feeling like a burden and stuck heaviness can shift to lightness in body, freeness and hope.
You are OVER 50 MIN sessions and JUST talk! You are OVER feeling like you are starting to open up in therapy and then time runs out. EMDR Intensives (2 hrs a day, 3 days a week) and extended sessions in person can give the spaciousness needed to deeply process your experience so you can feel better faster. I specialize in helping highly sensitive women (HSP) who feel overwhelmed, hyper-vigilant and not trusting of self move toward feeling relief from childhood trauma, complex trauma, sexual trauma, and unprocessed grief. People-pleasing, feeling like a burden and stuck heaviness can shift to lightness in body, freeness and hope.
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Photo of Sally TerBeck - Sally TerBeck Nutrition & Counseling, MS, CN, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Sally TerBeck Nutrition & Counseling
Counselor, MS, CN, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
My path to the study of nutrition and counseling began in 2008 when my doctor helped me realize the connection between my mood and my choices in food. After many years of study and clinical work I've learned many other ways to help the brain and body through counseling and nutrition. From 2012-2014 I worked as an intern therapist at Seattle Counseling Service where I taught an ongoing Food & Mood group. Since then I have worked in private practice helping people with food and mental health issues.
My path to the study of nutrition and counseling began in 2008 when my doctor helped me realize the connection between my mood and my choices in food. After many years of study and clinical work I've learned many other ways to help the brain and body through counseling and nutrition. From 2012-2014 I worked as an intern therapist at Seattle Counseling Service where I taught an ongoing Food & Mood group. Since then I have worked in private practice helping people with food and mental health issues.
(206) 429-6450 View (206) 429-6450
Photo of Nikki Humes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nikki Humes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Clients typically reach out to me when some area of their life is not working well. This could be a new instance of something not working well, or it’s possible that something hasn’t been working well for a very long time. It could be a behavior, a relationship, a job, an attitude, a way of thinking or feeling, or it could be that the ways you used to cope are no longer working or serving you anymore. It’s a painful place to be when the old way doesn’t work anymore but you don’t yet know a new way. Therapy can be a powerful place to learn new tools for engaging in life and relationships that serve you and those around you better.
Clients typically reach out to me when some area of their life is not working well. This could be a new instance of something not working well, or it’s possible that something hasn’t been working well for a very long time. It could be a behavior, a relationship, a job, an attitude, a way of thinking or feeling, or it could be that the ways you used to cope are no longer working or serving you anymore. It’s a painful place to be when the old way doesn’t work anymore but you don’t yet know a new way. Therapy can be a powerful place to learn new tools for engaging in life and relationships that serve you and those around you better.
(503) 300-2907 View (503) 300-2907
Photo of Dana Mortensen, LPC, MA, BFA, LEED AP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Mortensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, BFA, LEED AP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Counseling gives you an opportunity to express yourself with an enlightened witness: an ethical professional who listens carefully, and with acceptance and positive regard, and with the intention of promoting your wellbeing through insights, associations, and skills building. Ideal clients are those who want to understand what lies beneath symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health diagnoses to examine your personal triggers for nervous system dysregulation. The source of your angst may include past trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders (Autism, ADHD, etc.) or physical health conditions, and often, all three.
Counseling gives you an opportunity to express yourself with an enlightened witness: an ethical professional who listens carefully, and with acceptance and positive regard, and with the intention of promoting your wellbeing through insights, associations, and skills building. Ideal clients are those who want to understand what lies beneath symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health diagnoses to examine your personal triggers for nervous system dysregulation. The source of your angst may include past trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders (Autism, ADHD, etc.) or physical health conditions, and often, all three.
(503) 433-8469 View (503) 433-8469
Photo of Zachary Horner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zachary Horner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
When dealing with substance abuse recovery, every step forward is a stride towards a renewed self. In my practice, I offer a sanctuary for reflection and growth where your struggles with substance abuse are met with understanding and support. My goal is to help you rediscover your strengths and potential in a journey that, though challenging, is filled with opportunities for profound transformation and healing.
When dealing with substance abuse recovery, every step forward is a stride towards a renewed self. In my practice, I offer a sanctuary for reflection and growth where your struggles with substance abuse are met with understanding and support. My goal is to help you rediscover your strengths and potential in a journey that, though challenging, is filled with opportunities for profound transformation and healing.
(971) 251-9972 View (971) 251-9972
Photo of Heather Mulkerns, LCSW, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Mulkerns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a collaborative process of relational and emotional growth. I will help you to find the roots of troublesome patterns in your life so you can feel more fulfilled, improve relationships, grieve losses and experience more joy. I blend psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and cognitive/ behavioral methods. I have also been trained as an EMDR specialist. My website, drheathermulkerns.com, has more information.
Therapy is a collaborative process of relational and emotional growth. I will help you to find the roots of troublesome patterns in your life so you can feel more fulfilled, improve relationships, grieve losses and experience more joy. I blend psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and cognitive/ behavioral methods. I have also been trained as an EMDR specialist. My website, drheathermulkerns.com, has more information.
(503) 404-3485 View (503) 404-3485
Photo of Catherine Jenkins Woods, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Jenkins Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
If you're struggling with anxiety, relationship issues or past trauma I can help you navigate successfully through using compassionate, effective, research based methods. I provide treatment from the comfort of your home anywhere in the state of Oregon via video or phone sessions. I offer free 30 minute consultations you can set up by simply texting my business phone. If we decide I'm a good fit we can set up a convenient time to meet including after hours and weekends. PLEASE USE THIS NUMBER 503 954 6345 TO CONTACT ME VIA TEXT.
If you're struggling with anxiety, relationship issues or past trauma I can help you navigate successfully through using compassionate, effective, research based methods. I provide treatment from the comfort of your home anywhere in the state of Oregon via video or phone sessions. I offer free 30 minute consultations you can set up by simply texting my business phone. If we decide I'm a good fit we can set up a convenient time to meet including after hours and weekends. PLEASE USE THIS NUMBER 503 954 6345 TO CONTACT ME VIA TEXT.
(971) 231-2439 View (971) 231-2439
Photo of Jessica Glover - Asterales Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asterales Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I’m Jessica Glover, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 16 years. I believe people are nuanced and complex and benefit most with the use of an eclectic therapeutic approach. We will work together to find the most beneficial therapy practice that aligns with your personal needs and therapeutic goals. I focus primarily on working with Neurodivergent Adults to help them understand more about how the Neurodiverse brain functions differently than a Neurotypical brain. I want to work with you to make the best plan for both day to day goals, and support your dreams in a Neurodiverse and Inclusive way.
I’m Jessica Glover, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 16 years. I believe people are nuanced and complex and benefit most with the use of an eclectic therapeutic approach. We will work together to find the most beneficial therapy practice that aligns with your personal needs and therapeutic goals. I focus primarily on working with Neurodivergent Adults to help them understand more about how the Neurodiverse brain functions differently than a Neurotypical brain. I want to work with you to make the best plan for both day to day goals, and support your dreams in a Neurodiverse and Inclusive way.
(503) 483-8329 View (503) 483-8329
Photo of Willow Mahoney - Clarity Therapies , MA, QMHP, MFTA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Clarity Therapies
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP, MFTA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Hi and welcome! My therapeutic style is warm, person-centered, and trauma-informed. My clients tell me that I am helpful, and the intervention have helped to provide relief from their symptoms. I believe that for therapy to be effective, a strong therapeutic connection is essential, and co-creating this partnership with the client is a priority along the therapeutic journey. My mission is to empower my clients to foster a supportive relationship within themselves and others. I co-create interventions with clients to help with a wide range of issues such as stress, depression, anxiety, PTST, relationship issues, and more.
Hi and welcome! My therapeutic style is warm, person-centered, and trauma-informed. My clients tell me that I am helpful, and the intervention have helped to provide relief from their symptoms. I believe that for therapy to be effective, a strong therapeutic connection is essential, and co-creating this partnership with the client is a priority along the therapeutic journey. My mission is to empower my clients to foster a supportive relationship within themselves and others. I co-create interventions with clients to help with a wide range of issues such as stress, depression, anxiety, PTST, relationship issues, and more.
(503) 832-5261 View (503) 832-5261
Photo of Leslie Susan Yeargers - Family Heart Counseling - Leslie Yeargers, M.A,, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Family Heart Counseling - Leslie Yeargers, M.A,
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with couples from all walks of life, as well as families in which one member is exploring their gender identity or actively transitioning. I understand that gender exploration and transition can create unique challenges within families; it can bring out family dynamics that are painful and difficult to navigate without help. I am here to support you with that. Regarding couples, it's not unusual to experience challenges in your relationship as you face the challenges of daily living. I am here to help you improve communication, increase understanding, and find your way back to each other.
I specialize in working with couples from all walks of life, as well as families in which one member is exploring their gender identity or actively transitioning. I understand that gender exploration and transition can create unique challenges within families; it can bring out family dynamics that are painful and difficult to navigate without help. I am here to support you with that. Regarding couples, it's not unusual to experience challenges in your relationship as you face the challenges of daily living. I am here to help you improve communication, increase understanding, and find your way back to each other.
(971) 351-1608 View (971) 351-1608
Photo of Hanna Lyon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hanna Lyon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients and do not keep a waitlist. I specialize in working with adults and teens as they navigate life transitions and stressors. My approach is warm, client centered, strengths based, and relational, with the intent to walk alongside a person during transition and change processes. My work facilitates a deepening understanding of self to support people in accepting who they are and knowing that they matter.
I am not accepting new clients and do not keep a waitlist. I specialize in working with adults and teens as they navigate life transitions and stressors. My approach is warm, client centered, strengths based, and relational, with the intent to walk alongside a person during transition and change processes. My work facilitates a deepening understanding of self to support people in accepting who they are and knowing that they matter.
(971) 314-4657 View (971) 314-4657
Photo of Tate Sprite
Tate Sprite
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230
PEOPLE. Can’t live with them, can’t live without them? It’s painful to watch others apparently having an easy time connecting. It’s lonely. Relationships may have always been complicated or disappointing for you and it’s hard to fully trust them. Somewhere in you there’s a real yearning for deep, authentic connection. That might be embarrassing to admit. You can almost sense in your bones that it should be possible… But you don’t know how.
PEOPLE. Can’t live with them, can’t live without them? It’s painful to watch others apparently having an easy time connecting. It’s lonely. Relationships may have always been complicated or disappointing for you and it’s hard to fully trust them. Somewhere in you there’s a real yearning for deep, authentic connection. That might be embarrassing to admit. You can almost sense in your bones that it should be possible… But you don’t know how.
(503) 308-7659 View (503) 308-7659
Photo of Behjat Sedighi, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Behjat Sedighi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
“The wound is the place where the light enters you” – Rumi. Life stressors can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and even hopelessness. If you are feeling any of these, know that you are not alone. I trust in the power of therapy to re-examine stressful situations in a therapeutic environment. I am passionate about working with adults, children, and families to help identify barriers and dysfunctions; and to help facilitate positive changes to reinstate normal functions.
“The wound is the place where the light enters you” – Rumi. Life stressors can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and even hopelessness. If you are feeling any of these, know that you are not alone. I trust in the power of therapy to re-examine stressful situations in a therapeutic environment. I am passionate about working with adults, children, and families to help identify barriers and dysfunctions; and to help facilitate positive changes to reinstate normal functions.
(971) 248-7998 View (971) 248-7998
Photo of Mark Dillon, Psychologist
Mark Dillon
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I specialize in working with individuals that are involved in a high conflict divorce or an individual or couple that are involved in a DHS child welfare case. People going through these highly stressful experiences can benefit from support, direction, and at times direct assistance in order to successfully get through the legal process. The goal of the work is to facilitate the legal aspect of the case, decrease stress, save the client money, and minimize the impact of the pain or damage to children.
I specialize in working with individuals that are involved in a high conflict divorce or an individual or couple that are involved in a DHS child welfare case. People going through these highly stressful experiences can benefit from support, direction, and at times direct assistance in order to successfully get through the legal process. The goal of the work is to facilitate the legal aspect of the case, decrease stress, save the client money, and minimize the impact of the pain or damage to children.
(503) 438-4985 View (503) 438-4985
Photo of Jennifer Jim, MS Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Jim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
I'm currently accepting new Individual clients. I've been a licensed therapist for 17 years and love the work more each year. Anxiety, stress, and worry often prevent us from living our best lives. I want to partner with you to find a Renewed sense of energy, a Renewed sense of purpose, and a Renewed sense of well-being in your life. Our work together will be focused on unhooking from unhelpful patterns and narratives and developing concrete skills to manage the symptoms interfering in your life.
I'm currently accepting new Individual clients. I've been a licensed therapist for 17 years and love the work more each year. Anxiety, stress, and worry often prevent us from living our best lives. I want to partner with you to find a Renewed sense of energy, a Renewed sense of purpose, and a Renewed sense of well-being in your life. Our work together will be focused on unhooking from unhelpful patterns and narratives and developing concrete skills to manage the symptoms interfering in your life.
(971) 224-7300 View (971) 224-7300
Photo of Elizabeth Raffer Anderson, MA, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Raffer Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Hi! I am so glad you are here. My approach is direct, nurturing and connective. I believe in the capacity to grow and to become our best selves. I incorporate psychodynamic talk therapy to understand the stuck points, while incorporating mindfulness and somatic work to connect the mind and body. Additionally, I acknowledge that oppression exists within marginalized communities, thus treating the individual in a social context.
Hi! I am so glad you are here. My approach is direct, nurturing and connective. I believe in the capacity to grow and to become our best selves. I incorporate psychodynamic talk therapy to understand the stuck points, while incorporating mindfulness and somatic work to connect the mind and body. Additionally, I acknowledge that oppression exists within marginalized communities, thus treating the individual in a social context.
(503) 694-4740 View (503) 694-4740
Photo of Valerie Lamke (Intra-Teletherapy), MS, LMFT, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Lamke (Intra-Teletherapy)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
There are times in a person's life when their own natural support system may not be enough. It may be time to reach out to get the support and guidance from an experienced therapist. This office is dedicated to the mental health wellness of women that are experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, relationship struggles and even thoughts of self-harm. My goal is to create a very personalized plan for your care so that you feel supported and validated each session. INTRA- means from within. Start your healing and growth from within by connecting with my office today.
There are times in a person's life when their own natural support system may not be enough. It may be time to reach out to get the support and guidance from an experienced therapist. This office is dedicated to the mental health wellness of women that are experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, relationship struggles and even thoughts of self-harm. My goal is to create a very personalized plan for your care so that you feel supported and validated each session. INTRA- means from within. Start your healing and growth from within by connecting with my office today.
(503) 405-4422 View (503) 405-4422
Photo of Pam Snyder, LCSW, ACT, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients online. I work with adult children, partners and siblings of individuals with Narcissistic and Borderline Personality Disorder traits. It can be difficult to find a therapist who truly understand the impact and wounds of being raised in a home or being in a relationship with someone who has narcissistic and borderline traits. My work includes creating a healthy psychological separation, changing the negative internal messages, learning how to respond to others, creating healthy boundaries, stopping the legacy of distorted love and becoming your true and authentic self.
Now accepting new clients online. I work with adult children, partners and siblings of individuals with Narcissistic and Borderline Personality Disorder traits. It can be difficult to find a therapist who truly understand the impact and wounds of being raised in a home or being in a relationship with someone who has narcissistic and borderline traits. My work includes creating a healthy psychological separation, changing the negative internal messages, learning how to respond to others, creating healthy boundaries, stopping the legacy of distorted love and becoming your true and authentic self.
(720) 838-4531 View (720) 838-4531
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

53% PacificSource
51% Aetna
40% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
22% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.