Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Joshua Coy Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Joshua Coy Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle
I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle
(865) 351-6121 View (865) 351-6121
Photo of Christian DiMola, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Christian DiMola
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37938  (Online Only)
The areas that I help my clients with are for those dealing with anxiety, depression, codependency, low emotional intelligence, addictions (especially sex/porn addiction), personality disorders and trauma. I find that people are looking for ways to deal and cope with the stress and challenges in their lives and unfortunately most people do not cope with their problems in a healthy way; instead they will find ways to cope by escaping, keeping themselves busy and distracted, basically never dealing directly with the problem and defer it for another time, but that time usually doesn't come.
The areas that I help my clients with are for those dealing with anxiety, depression, codependency, low emotional intelligence, addictions (especially sex/porn addiction), personality disorders and trauma. I find that people are looking for ways to deal and cope with the stress and challenges in their lives and unfortunately most people do not cope with their problems in a healthy way; instead they will find ways to cope by escaping, keeping themselves busy and distracted, basically never dealing directly with the problem and defer it for another time, but that time usually doesn't come.
(609) 793-9693 View (609) 793-9693
Photo of Carrie Joy Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Carrie Joy Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921
Carrie's background and training is in Integrative Mental Health for Anxiety and Depression, Gender, and Substance Use (both abstinence and moderation goals) Therapy. After a very rewarding and joyful career of raising five children, Carrie discovered her passion for psychology, therapy, and the clients she has been honoured to work with. Nothing is quite as rewarding as watching a client during an "aha" moment or hearing about a particularly difficult challenge successfully overcome. Nothing touches the soul quite as much as someone trusting you with their deepest of pains.
Carrie's background and training is in Integrative Mental Health for Anxiety and Depression, Gender, and Substance Use (both abstinence and moderation goals) Therapy. After a very rewarding and joyful career of raising five children, Carrie discovered her passion for psychology, therapy, and the clients she has been honoured to work with. Nothing is quite as rewarding as watching a client during an "aha" moment or hearing about a particularly difficult challenge successfully overcome. Nothing touches the soul quite as much as someone trusting you with their deepest of pains.
(813) 541-0145 View (813) 541-0145
Photo of Minton Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Minton Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Minton Family Therapy (MFT) is a husband and wife, marriage and family therapy practice based in Knoxville, TN offering both in person and Telehealth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. MFT seeks to treat the whole person (or couple, or family) in the context of whatever may be impeding personal, professional, physical and emotional growth. Taking both a creative and integrative approach, potential patients can expect to explore longstanding patterns of interaction that may hinder current relationships and begin to reshape those patterns into a more healthy and whole self.
Minton Family Therapy (MFT) is a husband and wife, marriage and family therapy practice based in Knoxville, TN offering both in person and Telehealth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. MFT seeks to treat the whole person (or couple, or family) in the context of whatever may be impeding personal, professional, physical and emotional growth. Taking both a creative and integrative approach, potential patients can expect to explore longstanding patterns of interaction that may hinder current relationships and begin to reshape those patterns into a more healthy and whole self.
(865) 375-4593 View (865) 375-4593
Photo of Haven Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Haven Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
We are a family-focused counseling clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee, with telehealth availability throughout Tennessee. Haven is a practice that desires to meet the mental health and relational needs of our community, with a particular focus on serving those looking for faith-sensitive services, where belief can be openly integrated into the therapeutic process as clients may desire. We desire to offer a positive and inviting place for adults, children, adolescents, and whole families to receive highly professional support in their emotional and behavioral needs.
We are a family-focused counseling clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee, with telehealth availability throughout Tennessee. Haven is a practice that desires to meet the mental health and relational needs of our community, with a particular focus on serving those looking for faith-sensitive services, where belief can be openly integrated into the therapeutic process as clients may desire. We desire to offer a positive and inviting place for adults, children, adolescents, and whole families to receive highly professional support in their emotional and behavioral needs.
(865) 344-2355 View (865) 344-2355
Photo of Amber Fortenberry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Amber Fortenberry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37912
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or wonder where you “fit in?” Do you struggle getting out of bed, have trouble falling sleep, or find yourself crying or “blowing up” more often?  You may be feeling isolated from your friends and family, or have a difficult time reaching out to your social supports. Maybe you are often feeling emotionally exhausted and mentally drained by routines that you used to accomplish with ease. Are you struggling to adapt to the increasingly chaotic world around you, or are you feeling a sense of loss for the life you had before the pandemic?
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or wonder where you “fit in?” Do you struggle getting out of bed, have trouble falling sleep, or find yourself crying or “blowing up” more often?  You may be feeling isolated from your friends and family, or have a difficult time reaching out to your social supports. Maybe you are often feeling emotionally exhausted and mentally drained by routines that you used to accomplish with ease. Are you struggling to adapt to the increasingly chaotic world around you, or are you feeling a sense of loss for the life you had before the pandemic?
(865) 290-7975 View (865) 290-7975
Photo of Clyde Johnson, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Clyde Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Your personal story is unique and unlike anyone else’s. There are times your story may feel difficult for you to understand, let alone share with others. Therapy can assist with making sense of your path and help you to understand how your story affects your present and your future. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer my training and expertise to help individuals and couples process challenging life experiences, understand the impact of those experiences on them and those they love, and utilize skills that can help even their most troubling experiences become an integrated and less troubling part of their story.
Your personal story is unique and unlike anyone else’s. There are times your story may feel difficult for you to understand, let alone share with others. Therapy can assist with making sense of your path and help you to understand how your story affects your present and your future. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer my training and expertise to help individuals and couples process challenging life experiences, understand the impact of those experiences on them and those they love, and utilize skills that can help even their most troubling experiences become an integrated and less troubling part of their story.
(865) 424-9829 View (865) 424-9829
Photo of Jay Meeks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jay Meeks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults across the life-span, including recent high school graduates and college students navigating the transition to independence as well as adults in other stages of life. I use a variety of therapies to treat a range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, trauma, and other life difficulties. In addition, I have specialized training in the LEAP method for gaining medication compliance for people suffering from psychosis. I also have extensive training and experience treating personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults across the life-span, including recent high school graduates and college students navigating the transition to independence as well as adults in other stages of life. I use a variety of therapies to treat a range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, trauma, and other life difficulties. In addition, I have specialized training in the LEAP method for gaining medication compliance for people suffering from psychosis. I also have extensive training and experience treating personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder.
(865) 413-5154 View (865) 413-5154
Photo of Kathryn Perkel, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Kathryn Perkel
Psychologist, PsyD, ReikiMa
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Many people seeking therapy are simply sensitive souls in need of new or different ways of protecting themselves in a world which does not always honor the intuitive, sensitive, and creative self. I am passionate about helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and obsessional thinking that I believe often results from highly sensitive creative individuals lacking an outlet for expressing and/or understanding themselves.
Many people seeking therapy are simply sensitive souls in need of new or different ways of protecting themselves in a world which does not always honor the intuitive, sensitive, and creative self. I am passionate about helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and obsessional thinking that I believe often results from highly sensitive creative individuals lacking an outlet for expressing and/or understanding themselves.
(865) 280-1911 View (865) 280-1911
Photo of Heather Willard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Heather Willard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37912
Hello! My name is Heather Willard and I am a professional counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and other challenges. I partner with individuals and families to identify goals and develop a process that is complementary to each person’s needs and strengths. I love joining with individuals through counseling so they can be in a stronger place to grow, heal, and move toward wholeness. Therapy can be hard work, but it can also be fun and lead to strength and a deeper sense of joy.
Hello! My name is Heather Willard and I am a professional counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and other challenges. I partner with individuals and families to identify goals and develop a process that is complementary to each person’s needs and strengths. I love joining with individuals through counseling so they can be in a stronger place to grow, heal, and move toward wholeness. Therapy can be hard work, but it can also be fun and lead to strength and a deeper sense of joy.
(865) 674-9596 View (865) 674-9596
Photo of Lori Boudreaux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Lori Boudreaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Life can be difficult to navigate. Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and gratification from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve contentment and fulfillment in your life.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and gratification from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve contentment and fulfillment in your life.
(865) 426-1424 View (865) 426-1424
Photo of Riley Long in Knoxville, TN
Riley Long
MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Being human is hard, and it is my belief that each of us deserve support as we navigate our day-to-day lives. As a therapist, I value meeting people where they are, and I openly listen while inviting curiosity and collaboration into sessions. I believe by co-creating an open, nonjudgmental space, we can feel seen, heard and supported.
Being human is hard, and it is my belief that each of us deserve support as we navigate our day-to-day lives. As a therapist, I value meeting people where they are, and I openly listen while inviting curiosity and collaboration into sessions. I believe by co-creating an open, nonjudgmental space, we can feel seen, heard and supported.
(865) 217-0669 View (865) 217-0669
Photo of Amy L Dilworth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Amy L Dilworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
(865) 346-6015 View (865) 346-6015
Photo of Insightful Journey™ Therapy Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Insightful Journey™ Therapy Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
You’ve heard that life is a journey. Actually, we believe that life is about multiple journeys. Perhaps your most important is the exploration to help you heal. It is the one where you gain insight into your mind and heart. At Insightful Journey, we serve as your guides to help you overcome roadblocks such as depression, anxiety, and trauma that are preventing you from being successful. Everyone’s quest is unique, so we take a personalized approach to help get you on track to reach your destination.
You’ve heard that life is a journey. Actually, we believe that life is about multiple journeys. Perhaps your most important is the exploration to help you heal. It is the one where you gain insight into your mind and heart. At Insightful Journey, we serve as your guides to help you overcome roadblocks such as depression, anxiety, and trauma that are preventing you from being successful. Everyone’s quest is unique, so we take a personalized approach to help get you on track to reach your destination.
(865) 518-7864 View (865) 518-7864
Photo of Mark A LeMay, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Mark A LeMay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time. I believe everyone has the ability to live a meaningful and deeply satisfying life. I combine over 30 years experience as a clinical psychologist with Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT), Positive Psychology, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help others achieve optimal well-being.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. I believe everyone has the ability to live a meaningful and deeply satisfying life. I combine over 30 years experience as a clinical psychologist with Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT), Positive Psychology, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help others achieve optimal well-being.
(865) 368-9445 View (865) 368-9445
Photo of Tara Burgess, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Tara Burgess
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Hello! I am a graduate intern currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Johnson University. I graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2021 with a bachelor’s in Psychology. My desire to help and care for others has made me passionate about the therapeutic relationship and counseling profession. I typically see children ages 4-10, but also see clients ages 10 and older. I focus on phase of life issues, peer relationships, emotional regulation, stress management, and much more.
Hello! I am a graduate intern currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Johnson University. I graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2021 with a bachelor’s in Psychology. My desire to help and care for others has made me passionate about the therapeutic relationship and counseling profession. I typically see children ages 4-10, but also see clients ages 10 and older. I focus on phase of life issues, peer relationships, emotional regulation, stress management, and much more.
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Photo of Dr. S. David Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Dr. S. David Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Stephen "David" Hall is the clinic director and co-owner of Haven Counseling Center. Whether your struggle is with relationships, anxiety, spiritual concerns, sexual health, or just personal growth; Dr. Hall would love the chance to help you work through these difficult parts of life. Dr. Hall has a particular interest in music, movies, art, and stories in general, and tries to use the theory and craft of story as a way to help the people he works with find new ways to see their lives and possible solutions.
Dr. Stephen "David" Hall is the clinic director and co-owner of Haven Counseling Center. Whether your struggle is with relationships, anxiety, spiritual concerns, sexual health, or just personal growth; Dr. Hall would love the chance to help you work through these difficult parts of life. Dr. Hall has a particular interest in music, movies, art, and stories in general, and tries to use the theory and craft of story as a way to help the people he works with find new ways to see their lives and possible solutions.
(865) 409-5001 View (865) 409-5001
Photo of Hayden Chaple, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Hayden Chaple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Life often presents us with challenges that outdo our ability to effectively cope. In such moments, seeking support becomes essential. Whether you're seeking assistance in navigating through life transitions, family/friend/academic/career stressors, major life decisions, overcoming trauma, or dealing with other distressing experiences, I'm here to lend a helping hand. If you find yourself battling daily depression or anxiety, grief, or feeling completely overwhelmed to the point where functioning seems near impossible, I seek to offer my support, compassion, and guidance. Together, let's work towards the positive future you deserve.
Life often presents us with challenges that outdo our ability to effectively cope. In such moments, seeking support becomes essential. Whether you're seeking assistance in navigating through life transitions, family/friend/academic/career stressors, major life decisions, overcoming trauma, or dealing with other distressing experiences, I'm here to lend a helping hand. If you find yourself battling daily depression or anxiety, grief, or feeling completely overwhelmed to the point where functioning seems near impossible, I seek to offer my support, compassion, and guidance. Together, let's work towards the positive future you deserve.
(865) 448-5091 View (865) 448-5091
Photo of Amanda Whichard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Amanda Whichard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
You may find you're walking through a difficult season of life. But whether you feel sad, stuck, anxious, lost, afraid or just tired of trying to figure things out on your own; I really love the process of walking with people through difficult transitions or as they are stepping into new changes in their lives. I am passionate in working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, are who are in the middle of life transitions (such as grief, loss of pet/dream/job, moving), and/or are working through their mental health wellbeing in the context of work and career.
You may find you're walking through a difficult season of life. But whether you feel sad, stuck, anxious, lost, afraid or just tired of trying to figure things out on your own; I really love the process of walking with people through difficult transitions or as they are stepping into new changes in their lives. I am passionate in working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, are who are in the middle of life transitions (such as grief, loss of pet/dream/job, moving), and/or are working through their mental health wellbeing in the context of work and career.
(865) 217-7716 x814 View (865) 217-7716 x814
Photo of Maria Milo, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Maria Milo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you is pivotal to a beneficial and meaningful experience in therapy. A strong therapeutic relationship is the vehicle for change and the strongest predictor of treatment success. My international education encouraged me to adopt a flexible, curious, and inclusive perspective on the factors that contribute to one's identity and difficulties (e.g., religion, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, etc.). I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space to support clients' introspective journeys, exploration of identities, and understanding of the self, others, and the world.
Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you is pivotal to a beneficial and meaningful experience in therapy. A strong therapeutic relationship is the vehicle for change and the strongest predictor of treatment success. My international education encouraged me to adopt a flexible, curious, and inclusive perspective on the factors that contribute to one's identity and difficulties (e.g., religion, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, etc.). I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space to support clients' introspective journeys, exploration of identities, and understanding of the self, others, and the world.
(844) 952-2604 View (844) 952-2604

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.