Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Jessica Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jessica Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Hi! I'm Jessie, and I'm a therapist in Knoxville. I have been working as a therapist since 2008, and use different treatment modalities and approaches to help my clients in the best way possible. I'm excited for us to work together to come up with the best treatment plan to help you achieve your personal goals!
Hi! I'm Jessie, and I'm a therapist in Knoxville. I have been working as a therapist since 2008, and use different treatment modalities and approaches to help my clients in the best way possible. I'm excited for us to work together to come up with the best treatment plan to help you achieve your personal goals!
(865) 535-7175 View (865) 535-7175
Photo of Christian Lockhart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Christian Lockhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Hello! I'm Christian. If you are looking for a safe and supportive space where you can freely share your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgment, I would love the privilege of providing just that. In our therapeutic relationship, you will have the chance to heal from psychological wounds, develop coping skills, and move from surviving to thriving.
Hello! I'm Christian. If you are looking for a safe and supportive space where you can freely share your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgment, I would love the privilege of providing just that. In our therapeutic relationship, you will have the chance to heal from psychological wounds, develop coping skills, and move from surviving to thriving.
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Photo of Patricia Proctor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Patricia Proctor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Trish is a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider who has been active in the mental health profession for over thirty-five years. She received her bachelor's degree in Music Therapy from Tennessee Tech and her master's degree in community counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Trish practices from a bio-psycho-social-spiritual framework drawing heavily from Choice Theory Psychology, Gestalt Therapy, Polyvagal Theory (if you know, you know; if you don't, just ask), and Creative Arts Therapies.
Trish is a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider who has been active in the mental health profession for over thirty-five years. She received her bachelor's degree in Music Therapy from Tennessee Tech and her master's degree in community counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Trish practices from a bio-psycho-social-spiritual framework drawing heavily from Choice Theory Psychology, Gestalt Therapy, Polyvagal Theory (if you know, you know; if you don't, just ask), and Creative Arts Therapies.
(865) 390-3874 View (865) 390-3874
Photo of Wesley J Gosselin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Wesley J Gosselin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Life is incredibly difficult. Add onto that that we, as humans, are complex beings living in a all-the-more complex social, economic, and environmental world and it’s no secret why we often feel off-track and unfulfilled. Being a psychoanalytic psychotherapist, I aim to co-explore the depths of each person I meet, to harness them with the personal awareness, tools and responsibility needed to feel more capable, alive and authentic in their lives.
Life is incredibly difficult. Add onto that that we, as humans, are complex beings living in a all-the-more complex social, economic, and environmental world and it’s no secret why we often feel off-track and unfulfilled. Being a psychoanalytic psychotherapist, I aim to co-explore the depths of each person I meet, to harness them with the personal awareness, tools and responsibility needed to feel more capable, alive and authentic in their lives.
(865) 509-9803 View (865) 509-9803
Photo of Sarah R. Hamblen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sarah R. Hamblen, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
My name is Sarah R. Hamblen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing clinical services for over 17 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals of all ages, couples, and families on many different issues and concerns. The heart of my practice is finding the strengths within each individual and family. I strive to empower them to reach their goals both independently and as a family group. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, understanding, and implement effective change.
My name is Sarah R. Hamblen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing clinical services for over 17 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals of all ages, couples, and families on many different issues and concerns. The heart of my practice is finding the strengths within each individual and family. I strive to empower them to reach their goals both independently and as a family group. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, understanding, and implement effective change.
(865) 248-6816 View (865) 248-6816
Photo of Susan Wendy Hundley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Susan Wendy Hundley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the areas of depression, infertility, anxiety, relationship issues/boundaries, and grief. I am an advocate for those I work with, empowering them to find strength within themselves to become successful independently. However, I also enjoy problem solving and supporting self-determination. I am a realist, meaning that I do not expect that life will become easy or happiness will be immediately achieved, but I also feel few things are insurmountable. I work tirelessly to improve the lives of the individuals and couples who see me because this is my passion.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the areas of depression, infertility, anxiety, relationship issues/boundaries, and grief. I am an advocate for those I work with, empowering them to find strength within themselves to become successful independently. However, I also enjoy problem solving and supporting self-determination. I am a realist, meaning that I do not expect that life will become easy or happiness will be immediately achieved, but I also feel few things are insurmountable. I work tirelessly to improve the lives of the individuals and couples who see me because this is my passion.
(865) 234-4150 View (865) 234-4150
Photo of Candace L Huddleston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Candace L Huddleston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
In a society that has increasingly more information about mental health issues along with increasing openness to discuss mental health concerns, are you someone who would like to develop that even further with the help of a mental health professional? I work alongside my clients to help them understand all this information in the context of their own experiences. We then work together to identify ways to integrate that, brainstorm skills and implement tools to improve overall quality of life.
In a society that has increasingly more information about mental health issues along with increasing openness to discuss mental health concerns, are you someone who would like to develop that even further with the help of a mental health professional? I work alongside my clients to help them understand all this information in the context of their own experiences. We then work together to identify ways to integrate that, brainstorm skills and implement tools to improve overall quality of life.
(865) 426-1492 View (865) 426-1492
Photo of Steve Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Steve Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couples, family and group therapy. I work with most private and group insurance plans as well employee assistance programs and private paying individuals. I recieved a Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Tennessee in 1996 and the Licensed Clinical Social Work certification in 1999. I have been an adjunct instructor for the masters program at the UT College of Social Work, having taught courses in family therapy, group therapy, clinical social work with children and adolescents, and foundation courses.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couples, family and group therapy. I work with most private and group insurance plans as well employee assistance programs and private paying individuals. I recieved a Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Tennessee in 1996 and the Licensed Clinical Social Work certification in 1999. I have been an adjunct instructor for the masters program at the UT College of Social Work, having taught courses in family therapy, group therapy, clinical social work with children and adolescents, and foundation courses.
(865) 630-4218 x103 View (865) 630-4218 x103
Photo of Anne Little-Goss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Anne Little-Goss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
For over 17 years Anne has had the privilege of providing therapy/coaching services to children, adolescents, and adults who have been negatively impacted by varying life circumstances. Anne is passionate about helping clients understand that a diagnosis does not define who they are, but only identifies the patterns they are struggling with. Anne believes "everyone has a story in which each chapter can create different needs and challenges". She adds, "Therapy/Coaching provides a safe and confidential space to process and learn new coping strategies or to challenge the way we look at those challenges and needs".
For over 17 years Anne has had the privilege of providing therapy/coaching services to children, adolescents, and adults who have been negatively impacted by varying life circumstances. Anne is passionate about helping clients understand that a diagnosis does not define who they are, but only identifies the patterns they are struggling with. Anne believes "everyone has a story in which each chapter can create different needs and challenges". She adds, "Therapy/Coaching provides a safe and confidential space to process and learn new coping strategies or to challenge the way we look at those challenges and needs".
(865) 217-2659 View (865) 217-2659
Photo of Angela Masini, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Angela Masini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
(865) 217-0514 View (865) 217-0514
Photo of Abby Welch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Abby Welch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, T-LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I believe that counseling has the biggest impact when the client and counselor are able to work together towards a common goal. I strive to allow the client to lead sessions in the direction that they feel is most important, while balancing our time with therapeutic strategies that fit the client's needs. I prioritize safety, warmth, and openness in my work.
I believe that counseling has the biggest impact when the client and counselor are able to work together towards a common goal. I strive to allow the client to lead sessions in the direction that they feel is most important, while balancing our time with therapeutic strategies that fit the client's needs. I prioritize safety, warmth, and openness in my work.
(865) 346-5325 View (865) 346-5325
Photo of Candis Cochran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Candis Cochran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Welcome! I applaud you for taking the steps to help yourself grow. I have over 10 years of experience helping people discover how to be the best version of themself. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed or depressed or feel that you are missing out, struggling to find joy or are becoming overly cynical I would love to talk with you and help you figure out what is missing. If you struggle with people pleasing, enabling, or over functioning this can also make life feel overwhelming but I would love to help. If you are struggling to connect with your partner or have a lot of miscommunications I can help you create a thriving marriage.
Welcome! I applaud you for taking the steps to help yourself grow. I have over 10 years of experience helping people discover how to be the best version of themself. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed or depressed or feel that you are missing out, struggling to find joy or are becoming overly cynical I would love to talk with you and help you figure out what is missing. If you struggle with people pleasing, enabling, or over functioning this can also make life feel overwhelming but I would love to help. If you are struggling to connect with your partner or have a lot of miscommunications I can help you create a thriving marriage.
(865) 518-8415 View (865) 518-8415
Photo of Alicia D Stipes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Alicia D Stipes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37921
Trauma comes in many forms. It is important to process that trauma in a safe environment. Like an infection, untreated trauma can fester into depression, anxiety, substance abuse, etc. I have experience working with a diverse population of clients but specifically individuals who abuse substances in order to cope with their traumatic history. I also have experience working with clients who have been in the healthcare field or emergency services field as I have been a first responder for many years. In addition I have experience working with individuals of all ages!
Trauma comes in many forms. It is important to process that trauma in a safe environment. Like an infection, untreated trauma can fester into depression, anxiety, substance abuse, etc. I have experience working with a diverse population of clients but specifically individuals who abuse substances in order to cope with their traumatic history. I also have experience working with clients who have been in the healthcare field or emergency services field as I have been a first responder for many years. In addition I have experience working with individuals of all ages!
(865) 205-0280 View (865) 205-0280
Photo of Irina Diyankova, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Irina Diyankova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I DO NOT ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS. Please, continue looking. I cannot respond to the new inquiries. I understand how difficult it is to ask for help and how painful it could be to talk about things that are not working with a stranger. I feel honored every time my client opens up to me. I treat my clients with respect, kindness, and warmth. In my experience, therapeutic relationship is the foundation of the healing process and I work very hard to help my clients feel heard, understood, supported, and safe in my office.
I DO NOT ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS. Please, continue looking. I cannot respond to the new inquiries. I understand how difficult it is to ask for help and how painful it could be to talk about things that are not working with a stranger. I feel honored every time my client opens up to me. I treat my clients with respect, kindness, and warmth. In my experience, therapeutic relationship is the foundation of the healing process and I work very hard to help my clients feel heard, understood, supported, and safe in my office.
(865) 685-5465 View (865) 685-5465
Photo of Amy Massaglia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Amy Massaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
My approach combines the comfort of a genuine and authentic therapeutic relationship with the significance of measurable outcomes and evidence-based treatment practices. Ensuring that you and/or your loved one feel comfortable, safe, and free from judgment during our sessions is vital to me. I primarily work with adults dealing with a range of issues, from life stressors and challenges, to regulating emotions/behaviors to depression/anxiety to relationship and family difficulties. Life's changes and heightened stress can make coping harder for everyone, and it's during these times that support is essential.
My approach combines the comfort of a genuine and authentic therapeutic relationship with the significance of measurable outcomes and evidence-based treatment practices. Ensuring that you and/or your loved one feel comfortable, safe, and free from judgment during our sessions is vital to me. I primarily work with adults dealing with a range of issues, from life stressors and challenges, to regulating emotions/behaviors to depression/anxiety to relationship and family difficulties. Life's changes and heightened stress can make coping harder for everyone, and it's during these times that support is essential.
(865) 345-5463 View (865) 345-5463
Photo of Logan Mahan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Logan Mahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. Maybe you can’t do this anymore. You’re stronger than most have ever had to be, but inside you swing between anger and helpless shame, if you let yourself feel anything at all. You keep doing it over and over again—maybe drinking, drugs, sex, rage, self-harm—and you hate it...but on the other hand, hasn't it been more reliable than anything or anyone else? You ask into that inner darkness, "Why am I like this?" But all you get in reply is a desperation to leave it all behind, and then a familiar fear: maybe this is all I deserve or am ever going to get.
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. Maybe you can’t do this anymore. You’re stronger than most have ever had to be, but inside you swing between anger and helpless shame, if you let yourself feel anything at all. You keep doing it over and over again—maybe drinking, drugs, sex, rage, self-harm—and you hate it...but on the other hand, hasn't it been more reliable than anything or anyone else? You ask into that inner darkness, "Why am I like this?" But all you get in reply is a desperation to leave it all behind, and then a familiar fear: maybe this is all I deserve or am ever going to get.
(865) 337-8396 View (865) 337-8396
Photo of Carrie Fair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Carrie Fair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Many of us are private people, who could use a little extra support and direction to overcome life's challenges. Acceptance and Confidentiality are two important aspects of Fairhaven Counseling & Consulting. Throughout my career I have learned that clients progress most effectively with an honest, non-judgmental, compassionate, but direct approach. I love watching clients rediscover their inner strength and begin to experience the joys life has to offer. I offer both personal & professional perspectives to overcoming trauma and rebuilding a life worth living.
Many of us are private people, who could use a little extra support and direction to overcome life's challenges. Acceptance and Confidentiality are two important aspects of Fairhaven Counseling & Consulting. Throughout my career I have learned that clients progress most effectively with an honest, non-judgmental, compassionate, but direct approach. I love watching clients rediscover their inner strength and begin to experience the joys life has to offer. I offer both personal & professional perspectives to overcoming trauma and rebuilding a life worth living.
(865) 408-7198 View (865) 408-7198
Photo of Terilyn Fesler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Terilyn Fesler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Therapy is a passion that I feel so lucky to have found. I learn with and from every client I see. While I have experience with many populations, I am most knowledgeable with assisting victims of domestic violence, individuals struggling with depression/anxiety, and those who are in recovery from addiction. I enjoy working with individuals who are ready to face their fears, build a therapeutic relationship, and improve their overall quality of life. I believe that regardless of what you have achieved, you deserve the life you are willing to create for yourself. I currently see ages 13 and up.
Therapy is a passion that I feel so lucky to have found. I learn with and from every client I see. While I have experience with many populations, I am most knowledgeable with assisting victims of domestic violence, individuals struggling with depression/anxiety, and those who are in recovery from addiction. I enjoy working with individuals who are ready to face their fears, build a therapeutic relationship, and improve their overall quality of life. I believe that regardless of what you have achieved, you deserve the life you are willing to create for yourself. I currently see ages 13 and up.
(865) 217-1905 View (865) 217-1905
Photo of Kike Kotsianas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Kike Kotsianas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
There are tough times for everyone — that goes without saying. But combine the stress and uncertainty of life with the challenges of being a preteen, teen, or young adult and it’s no surprise that many are struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health-related issues. I would like to help you navigate these challenges and work with you to gain the the tools necessary to overcome them. I am passionate about using my knowledge, experience, and resources to help you find joy in your life!
There are tough times for everyone — that goes without saying. But combine the stress and uncertainty of life with the challenges of being a preteen, teen, or young adult and it’s no surprise that many are struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health-related issues. I would like to help you navigate these challenges and work with you to gain the the tools necessary to overcome them. I am passionate about using my knowledge, experience, and resources to help you find joy in your life!
(865) 448-7024 View (865) 448-7024
Photo of Connie Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Connie Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37934
Connie Ward is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Mental Health Service Provider in the state of Tennessee. Connie welcomes challenges in her work with clients, and values every unique perspective offered through the process of counseling. After completing her Master's degree at Lincoln Memorial University, she worked within community service agencies, local court systems, in residential settings, and in crisis management. Connie has been in the field of counseling and social services for over 20 years. She has worked with a wide range of populations including children, adolescents, and families.
Connie Ward is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Mental Health Service Provider in the state of Tennessee. Connie welcomes challenges in her work with clients, and values every unique perspective offered through the process of counseling. After completing her Master's degree at Lincoln Memorial University, she worked within community service agencies, local court systems, in residential settings, and in crisis management. Connie has been in the field of counseling and social services for over 20 years. She has worked with a wide range of populations including children, adolescents, and families.
(865) 345-5716 View (865) 345-5716

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

600+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Optum

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.