Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
(503) 897-1073 View (503) 897-1073
Photo of Lauren Beaudoin-Colegrove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lauren Beaudoin-Colegrove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97236  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Please note that I am not currently accepting new clients as of April 2024. Hi! I'm Lauren, a non-binary, queer-identified therapist practicing psychodynamic clinical social work in Oregon and Massachusetts. I specialize in working with clients of all ages who identify as transgender/non-binary and/or along the LGBQIA+ spectrum. In addition, I help clients work through issues related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, postpartum mood changes, parenthood, relationship issues, and trauma.
Please note that I am not currently accepting new clients as of April 2024. Hi! I'm Lauren, a non-binary, queer-identified therapist practicing psychodynamic clinical social work in Oregon and Massachusetts. I specialize in working with clients of all ages who identify as transgender/non-binary and/or along the LGBQIA+ spectrum. In addition, I help clients work through issues related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, postpartum mood changes, parenthood, relationship issues, and trauma.
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Photo of Erica Ironside, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Erica Ironside
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Waitlist for new clients
To reveal and work through one's difficulties can be scary, but fulfilling and enriching. Thus, I work to create a trusting, supportive environment free of judgement that allows for a safe space to dive into the depths of one's unique story and what brings them to treatment. Therapy can be a powerful process in which one can gain new insights, decrease distress and suffering, uncover strengths and limitations, and improve relationships both with one's self and others. I will treat you with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and honesty as we navigate the therapeutic process together.
To reveal and work through one's difficulties can be scary, but fulfilling and enriching. Thus, I work to create a trusting, supportive environment free of judgement that allows for a safe space to dive into the depths of one's unique story and what brings them to treatment. Therapy can be a powerful process in which one can gain new insights, decrease distress and suffering, uncover strengths and limitations, and improve relationships both with one's self and others. I will treat you with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and honesty as we navigate the therapeutic process together.
(971) 232-3343 View (971) 232-3343
Photo of Portland Behavioral Therapy, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Portland Behavioral Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
At Portland Behavioral Therapy, Dr. Conterno utilizes concepts and approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and she has specific training and experience using these therapies to treat anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Through the integration of mindfulness, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral interventions, Dr. Conterno helps her clients learn new skills to more effectively overcome and manage mental health challenges and situational stressors.
At Portland Behavioral Therapy, Dr. Conterno utilizes concepts and approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and she has specific training and experience using these therapies to treat anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Through the integration of mindfulness, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral interventions, Dr. Conterno helps her clients learn new skills to more effectively overcome and manage mental health challenges and situational stressors.
(971) 999-3247 View (971) 999-3247
Photo of Nicole Dove, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Nicole Dove
LPC Intern, LPC, Intern
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I work with various issues including infertility, pregnancy and postpartum, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, stress management, grief and loss, and marriage/relationship.
I work with various issues including infertility, pregnancy and postpartum, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, stress management, grief and loss, and marriage/relationship.
(503) 966-3199 View (503) 966-3199
Photo of Ken Kemp, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Ken Kemp
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Welcome! I imagine you want to better understand yourself and get to the root of your issues. You want to learn new skills and coping strategies. You also realize that psychotherapy when done well takes time, patience, and a certain amount of energy. You know that therapy will not always feel good and that fully experiencing one's emotions is essential for growth and well-being. You want to feel seen and heard by your therapist in a non-judging and non-shaming manner. You want your therapist to see your higher potentials and to hold healing intentions towards your growth and change.
Welcome! I imagine you want to better understand yourself and get to the root of your issues. You want to learn new skills and coping strategies. You also realize that psychotherapy when done well takes time, patience, and a certain amount of energy. You know that therapy will not always feel good and that fully experiencing one's emotions is essential for growth and well-being. You want to feel seen and heard by your therapist in a non-judging and non-shaming manner. You want your therapist to see your higher potentials and to hold healing intentions towards your growth and change.
(503) 773-6752 View (503) 773-6752
Photo of Sara A Post, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Sara A Post
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
As a therapist with 20 years of experience specializing in working with a diverse population of teens, young adults, and families, I have decided to leverage my expertise by co-founding a group practice. I believe the therapeutic progress happens in a safe, empowering, and non-judgmental space for self-exploration and healing. I really value the therapeutic relationship, which we will build together in a safe, collaborative space where you can feel genuinely seen and heard. I enjoy using warmth, humor, and curiosity in my sessions. We will work together to identify and build upon your strengths and create lasting changes.
As a therapist with 20 years of experience specializing in working with a diverse population of teens, young adults, and families, I have decided to leverage my expertise by co-founding a group practice. I believe the therapeutic progress happens in a safe, empowering, and non-judgmental space for self-exploration and healing. I really value the therapeutic relationship, which we will build together in a safe, collaborative space where you can feel genuinely seen and heard. I enjoy using warmth, humor, and curiosity in my sessions. We will work together to identify and build upon your strengths and create lasting changes.
(503) 832-6557 View (503) 832-6557
Photo of Hunter Vaughn, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Hunter Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I provide services to individuals, couples, and families, specializing in culturally competent therapy for Portland's LGBTQ community. I work with clients of various sexual, gender, and cultural backgrounds to address issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, identity concerns, and life transitions. I collaborate with clients & their other providers to determine the focus and nature of therapy. I believe all people are oriented towards health and growth, but sometimes develop problematic ways of thinking, acting, being, and interacting. In therapy we explore areas of your life to find ways of being that help you feel more contented, balanced, and effective.
I provide services to individuals, couples, and families, specializing in culturally competent therapy for Portland's LGBTQ community. I work with clients of various sexual, gender, and cultural backgrounds to address issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, identity concerns, and life transitions. I collaborate with clients & their other providers to determine the focus and nature of therapy. I believe all people are oriented towards health and growth, but sometimes develop problematic ways of thinking, acting, being, and interacting. In therapy we explore areas of your life to find ways of being that help you feel more contented, balanced, and effective.
(971) 264-7660 View (971) 264-7660
Photo of Elizabeth Ellisan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Elizabeth Ellisan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
When we find ourselves in times of increased stress and uncertainty we often find our personal everyday struggles are magnified making it harder than ever to maintain a sense of hope and stability. Anxiety, depression, and grief may be more intense lately – that is where therapy comes in to help.
When we find ourselves in times of increased stress and uncertainty we often find our personal everyday struggles are magnified making it harder than ever to maintain a sense of hope and stability. Anxiety, depression, and grief may be more intense lately – that is where therapy comes in to help.
(971) 717-3758 View (971) 717-3758
Photo of Dino Paris Counseling & High Performance Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Dino Paris Counseling & High Performance Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
For over 20 years, Dino has helped clients find relief from anxiety and trauma. He employs the most effective evidence-based methods and technologies. His primary modalities include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Creative Arts Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Alpha Stim Technology. As a high performance coach, Dino employs these same methods to assist elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to enhance their performance, enjoyment and engagement.
For over 20 years, Dino has helped clients find relief from anxiety and trauma. He employs the most effective evidence-based methods and technologies. His primary modalities include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Creative Arts Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Alpha Stim Technology. As a high performance coach, Dino employs these same methods to assist elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to enhance their performance, enjoyment and engagement.
(503) 567-5876 View (503) 567-5876
Photo of Bridgetown Kids, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Bridgetown Kids
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
The focus at Bridgetown Kids is to provide psychological assessments for school-aged children who are experiencing behavioral, social, emotional, learning, and/or attention difficulties. Assessments are comprehensive, individually tailored and explore strengths, weaknesses, challenges and needs. Each assessment provides individualized recommendations to help your child find their path to success.
The focus at Bridgetown Kids is to provide psychological assessments for school-aged children who are experiencing behavioral, social, emotional, learning, and/or attention difficulties. Assessments are comprehensive, individually tailored and explore strengths, weaknesses, challenges and needs. Each assessment provides individualized recommendations to help your child find their path to success.
(503) 966-5365 View (503) 966-5365
Photo of Carrie Love, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Carrie Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Waitlist for new clients
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
(971) 265-6157 View (971) 265-6157
Photo of Glenn Goldman, Counselor in Portland, OR
Glenn Goldman
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Life's difficulties provide us with an opportunity for healing and personal growth. My counseling practice helps people take advantage of these opportunities by encouraging self-knowledge and understanding. Whether you are struggling with new, unexpected pain or you want to work on a long-standing issue, I can provide you with the professional guidance to help you through grief and loss, anxiety and worry, depression, destructive anger patterns, addictive behaviors, relationship problems, family of origin issues, childhood sexual abuse, sexual identity issues, recovery from harmful religious indoctrination, and spiritual struggles.
Life's difficulties provide us with an opportunity for healing and personal growth. My counseling practice helps people take advantage of these opportunities by encouraging self-knowledge and understanding. Whether you are struggling with new, unexpected pain or you want to work on a long-standing issue, I can provide you with the professional guidance to help you through grief and loss, anxiety and worry, depression, destructive anger patterns, addictive behaviors, relationship problems, family of origin issues, childhood sexual abuse, sexual identity issues, recovery from harmful religious indoctrination, and spiritual struggles.
(971) 832-9952 View (971) 832-9952
Photo of Paulina Solis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Paulina Solis
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
You are the expert of your own life. My role is to guide you in creating positive change and help you achieve the fulfilling life and relationships you want. Together, we will uncover the strengths and resilience within you, fostering reconnection, hope, and healing in yourself and your relationships. Whether you are motivated to start therapy or uncertain about if therapy is the right fit, let's explore options to create the life you deserve.
You are the expert of your own life. My role is to guide you in creating positive change and help you achieve the fulfilling life and relationships you want. Together, we will uncover the strengths and resilience within you, fostering reconnection, hope, and healing in yourself and your relationships. Whether you are motivated to start therapy or uncertain about if therapy is the right fit, let's explore options to create the life you deserve.
(971) 290-6064 View (971) 290-6064
Photo of Clarity Therapies , Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
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 William Hamel, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
William Hamel
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I work with people who may be struggling to feel present in their life, or feel unable to enact their values for immediate and long term goals. Often, these struggles stem from things outside our control like past traumatic experiences and systematic oppression. In my collaborative approach to therapy, we will refocus on the experiences, decisions, and actions within your control to move your life in the direction you want it to go. My experiences includes working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, anger, addictions, and life transitions.
I work with people who may be struggling to feel present in their life, or feel unable to enact their values for immediate and long term goals. Often, these struggles stem from things outside our control like past traumatic experiences and systematic oppression. In my collaborative approach to therapy, we will refocus on the experiences, decisions, and actions within your control to move your life in the direction you want it to go. My experiences includes working with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, anger, addictions, and life transitions.
(971) 290-1138 View (971) 290-1138
Photo of Cory Miguel Cordero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Cory Miguel Cordero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Helping you to live a life that you value is my goal. Often in life we end up offtrack. We pay too much attention to things that don't truly matter to us... our fears, our pain, our sorrow. By themselves there is nothing wrong with them, but when they become prevailing forces in our lives, it leads to suffering. Too often we believe that we are the problem, when in truth, the problem is the problem. I believe that we can help you find your way. You can live a life where you have created your own meaning.
Helping you to live a life that you value is my goal. Often in life we end up offtrack. We pay too much attention to things that don't truly matter to us... our fears, our pain, our sorrow. By themselves there is nothing wrong with them, but when they become prevailing forces in our lives, it leads to suffering. Too often we believe that we are the problem, when in truth, the problem is the problem. I believe that we can help you find your way. You can live a life where you have created your own meaning.
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Photo of Annie Vail, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Annie Vail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
(503) 966-9615 View (503) 966-9615
Photo of Michelle Sarchiapone, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Michelle Sarchiapone
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97218
I draw on over 25 years of experience with somatics, mindfulness/meditation, and the creative arts to bring a unique synergy of skills to my counseling approach. In our sessions, you can expect to go beyond conventional therapy, merging somatic practices with a deep exploration into your emotional world and, often, what lies beyond the self. In our time together, we will engage with your body's wisdom and reimagine personal narratives, turning these insights into practical actions for holistic healing and self-growth.
I draw on over 25 years of experience with somatics, mindfulness/meditation, and the creative arts to bring a unique synergy of skills to my counseling approach. In our sessions, you can expect to go beyond conventional therapy, merging somatic practices with a deep exploration into your emotional world and, often, what lies beyond the self. In our time together, we will engage with your body's wisdom and reimagine personal narratives, turning these insights into practical actions for holistic healing and self-growth.
(971) 278-9293 View (971) 278-9293
Photo of Anjana Rajan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Anjana Rajan
Pre-Licensed Professional, CWSA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
If you have come this far, I believe it is a huge step and shows a lot of courage. The ability to want to work on oneself and show vulnerability is a big step towards the path of change. Therapy is a form of caring for oneself, safe space and way to self realization. I like to work with individuals and couples from various diverse and ethnic backgrounds. I like to utilize strengths based and Emotional focused therapy (EFT) to build deeper and meaningful changes.
If you have come this far, I believe it is a huge step and shows a lot of courage. The ability to want to work on oneself and show vulnerability is a big step towards the path of change. Therapy is a form of caring for oneself, safe space and way to self realization. I like to work with individuals and couples from various diverse and ethnic backgrounds. I like to utilize strengths based and Emotional focused therapy (EFT) to build deeper and meaningful changes.
(971) 251-1146 View (971) 251-1146

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
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% 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.