Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Anne Allanketner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Anne Allanketner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
A healthy life is full of transformation, change and growth. Sometimes the normal "growing pains" are accompanied by isolation, depression, anxiety and real loss. I welcome people who have the courage to seek another view point, to break the isolation and find the hidden beauty of transformation, amidst the chaos.
A healthy life is full of transformation, change and growth. Sometimes the normal "growing pains" are accompanied by isolation, depression, anxiety and real loss. I welcome people who have the courage to seek another view point, to break the isolation and find the hidden beauty of transformation, amidst the chaos.
(503) 567-4725 View (503) 567-4725
Photo of Kent Kreiselmaier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kent Kreiselmaier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Hello! Thank you for considering me to accompany you on this sacred journey. I believe counseling is a powerful tool for overcoming obstacles to well-being and human flourishing. I treat clients with a range of issues, from existential issues and coping with the demands of life, to mood disorders and anxiety, complex trauma and PTSD, spirituality concerns and religious trauma, and men's and LGBTQi issues. Together, we will examine these problems, trace their origins to childhood and significant adult relationships, and learn new skills and new ways of relating to others and ourselves to rediscover well-being and flourishing in life.
Hello! Thank you for considering me to accompany you on this sacred journey. I believe counseling is a powerful tool for overcoming obstacles to well-being and human flourishing. I treat clients with a range of issues, from existential issues and coping with the demands of life, to mood disorders and anxiety, complex trauma and PTSD, spirituality concerns and religious trauma, and men's and LGBTQi issues. Together, we will examine these problems, trace their origins to childhood and significant adult relationships, and learn new skills and new ways of relating to others and ourselves to rediscover well-being and flourishing in life.
(503) 749-6327 View (503) 749-6327
Photo of Brittany Neighbours, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Brittany Neighbours
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life can be overwhelming at times and you may feel anxious, depressed, stuck, angry, lost. Maybe you feel like you can't move freely without fear. Maybe you feel misunderstood in relationships. Therapy can feel scary - it's hard to be open with another person and to experience emotions and sensations that feel painful. I hope to create a space for you to be authentically yourself. My style is thoughtful, humorous, and down-to-earth, and we'll explore your emotions and sensations gently. I believe that developing insight, curiosity, playfulness, and compassion for yourself can be a foundation for a happier life.
Life can be overwhelming at times and you may feel anxious, depressed, stuck, angry, lost. Maybe you feel like you can't move freely without fear. Maybe you feel misunderstood in relationships. Therapy can feel scary - it's hard to be open with another person and to experience emotions and sensations that feel painful. I hope to create a space for you to be authentically yourself. My style is thoughtful, humorous, and down-to-earth, and we'll explore your emotions and sensations gently. I believe that developing insight, curiosity, playfulness, and compassion for yourself can be a foundation for a happier life.
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Photo of James Gibb Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
James Gibb Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, AMTP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
(Please note that I am currently located in Illinois and can only offer video or phone sessions). It was Irvin Yalom who said something to the effect that "psychotherapy is like a dress rehearsal for life". With this said, it is my intention to not only offer you support in therapy but to also help you generalize the skills you learn in therapy and apply them in your outside life and relationships. I specialize in anger and anxiety management for adults and adolescents. I also work with highly intelligent adults and teens who have a difficult time adjusting and adapting socially and work with high functioning autistic individuals.
(Please note that I am currently located in Illinois and can only offer video or phone sessions). It was Irvin Yalom who said something to the effect that "psychotherapy is like a dress rehearsal for life". With this said, it is my intention to not only offer you support in therapy but to also help you generalize the skills you learn in therapy and apply them in your outside life and relationships. I specialize in anger and anxiety management for adults and adolescents. I also work with highly intelligent adults and teens who have a difficult time adjusting and adapting socially and work with high functioning autistic individuals.
(309) 518-1421 View (309) 518-1421
Photo of Meredith Weissman, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Meredith Weissman
LPC Intern, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
Life has a way of making us revisit certain issues and patterns, and in doing so we are invited to journey towards the core. This can a process that is messy, but powerful. Often, the things that we’re struggling with are interrelated and dependent on other parts of our life, some of which are hidden outside of our awareness. In our work together, we will address you, as a whole person, through an approach rooted in mindfulness, holistic wellness, and real, authentic human connection. My clients have described my approach as one that is authentic, compassionate, honest, and at times, silly.
Life has a way of making us revisit certain issues and patterns, and in doing so we are invited to journey towards the core. This can a process that is messy, but powerful. Often, the things that we’re struggling with are interrelated and dependent on other parts of our life, some of which are hidden outside of our awareness. In our work together, we will address you, as a whole person, through an approach rooted in mindfulness, holistic wellness, and real, authentic human connection. My clients have described my approach as one that is authentic, compassionate, honest, and at times, silly.
(503) 386-1827 View (503) 386-1827
Photo of Neil Panchmatia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Neil Panchmatia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Are you feeling stuck in your life, and seeking transformation to help you heal, thrive and live a more fulfilling life? I specialize in working with individuals struggling with obstacles to fuller living: be it experiencing anxiety/panic or depression, living with trauma, body image issues/eating disorders, or experiencing marginalization due to one's identities or background. I offer an inclusive and affirming approach in working with clients from all walks of life. A life lived more richly and authentically is possible, and I'm here to support you with this journey of self-exploration, self-care and growth.
Are you feeling stuck in your life, and seeking transformation to help you heal, thrive and live a more fulfilling life? I specialize in working with individuals struggling with obstacles to fuller living: be it experiencing anxiety/panic or depression, living with trauma, body image issues/eating disorders, or experiencing marginalization due to one's identities or background. I offer an inclusive and affirming approach in working with clients from all walks of life. A life lived more richly and authentically is possible, and I'm here to support you with this journey of self-exploration, self-care and growth.
(503) 809-0222 View (503) 809-0222
Photo of Laurie Crandall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Laurie Crandall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
(503) 536-1231 View (503) 536-1231
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(971) 606-4749 View (971) 606-4749
Photo of Kristina Meyers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kristina Meyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
New Clients- adults only, in professional caregiving fields (education, mental health, healthcare). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 13 years experience in mental health fields, helping adults and adolescents work toward living fuller, more satisfying lives. I help individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and stress learn how past experiences shape their interactions and discover the inner strength to improve their lives.
New Clients- adults only, in professional caregiving fields (education, mental health, healthcare). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 13 years experience in mental health fields, helping adults and adolescents work toward living fuller, more satisfying lives. I help individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and stress learn how past experiences shape their interactions and discover the inner strength to improve their lives.
(971) 803-6702 View (971) 803-6702
Photo of Heather Mulkerns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Heather Mulkerns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a collaborative process of relational and emotional growth. I will help you to find the roots of troublesome patterns in your life so you can feel more fulfilled, improve relationships, grieve losses and experience more joy. I blend psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and cognitive/ behavioral methods. I have also been trained as an EMDR specialist. My website, drheathermulkerns.com, has more information.
Therapy is a collaborative process of relational and emotional growth. I will help you to find the roots of troublesome patterns in your life so you can feel more fulfilled, improve relationships, grieve losses and experience more joy. I blend psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and cognitive/ behavioral methods. I have also been trained as an EMDR specialist. My website, drheathermulkerns.com, has more information.
(503) 404-3485 View (503) 404-3485
Photo of Vicki Zeitner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Vicki Zeitner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Compassionate, affordable, evidence-based therapy and wellness coaching. Trauma processing. Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for anxiety and depression. Spiritual support and psychedelic integration. Communication coaching for better relationships. I offer therapy on a sliding scale with flexible scheduling. I do not currently accept insurance. Secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth services only. Please review my website and contact me for a free consultation.
Compassionate, affordable, evidence-based therapy and wellness coaching. Trauma processing. Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for anxiety and depression. Spiritual support and psychedelic integration. Communication coaching for better relationships. I offer therapy on a sliding scale with flexible scheduling. I do not currently accept insurance. Secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth services only. Please review my website and contact me for a free consultation.
(971) 213-7453 View (971) 213-7453
Photo of Elise Graner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Elise Graner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
Over 20 years’ experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families as a therapist and educator. I work through a psychodynamic lens with some coaching, if requested, to help clients gain insight, build resiliency, and learn tools to manage difficult behaviors, emotions, and life stressors with greater awareness and ease.
Over 20 years’ experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families as a therapist and educator. I work through a psychodynamic lens with some coaching, if requested, to help clients gain insight, build resiliency, and learn tools to manage difficult behaviors, emotions, and life stressors with greater awareness and ease.
(503) 295-9700 View (503) 295-9700
Photo of Dr. Kathleen R Gillis, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Kathleen R Gillis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Psychotherapy is a time devoted to you. With over 20 years of experience, I can provide support, perspective, and guidance; and help you recognize life’s joys and navigate through life’s struggles in a balanced, effective, and healthy way. I am straight-forward, humorous and empathic in my approach, and strive to facilitate open, honest and respectful communication while helping individuals and couples reach their goals. I believe I can best serve my clients by helping them 1) utilize their own experience and knowledge; 2) build on current strengths; and 3) tailor solutions to fit their unique circumstances.
Psychotherapy is a time devoted to you. With over 20 years of experience, I can provide support, perspective, and guidance; and help you recognize life’s joys and navigate through life’s struggles in a balanced, effective, and healthy way. I am straight-forward, humorous and empathic in my approach, and strive to facilitate open, honest and respectful communication while helping individuals and couples reach their goals. I believe I can best serve my clients by helping them 1) utilize their own experience and knowledge; 2) build on current strengths; and 3) tailor solutions to fit their unique circumstances.
(503) 447-7816 View (503) 447-7816
Photo of Andree Cannon-Fleming, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Andree Cannon-Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a safe, caring, non-judgmental, and respectful place to address concerns, challenges, and transitions that occur in life. I believe that counseling is a healing process that encourages self-acceptance and connection with others. My approach is systemic, collaborative, and client-directed. From this approach, you are respected as the expert on you while I help guide you from my knowledge of the therapy process. I believe that all people have inherent value and deserve dignity and respect. When provided with a caring and accepting environment, people access their strengths and resources for greater resilience and wellness.
I provide a safe, caring, non-judgmental, and respectful place to address concerns, challenges, and transitions that occur in life. I believe that counseling is a healing process that encourages self-acceptance and connection with others. My approach is systemic, collaborative, and client-directed. From this approach, you are respected as the expert on you while I help guide you from my knowledge of the therapy process. I believe that all people have inherent value and deserve dignity and respect. When provided with a caring and accepting environment, people access their strengths and resources for greater resilience and wellness.
(503) 461-5170 View (503) 461-5170
Photo of Natalie Rhodes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Natalie Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
(503) 433-8831 View (503) 433-8831
Photo of Kelsey Kuhlke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kelsey Kuhlke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a firm believer that counseling can benefit the personal growth of any individual. In a therapeutic relationship, this growth comes through the ongoing journey where you are able to safely discuss mental illness, process difficult events, and learn tools for holistic healing. I believe it is my job as a counselor to assist you in uncovering solutions, building confidence, and finding direction in life. I place a high value on therapeutic, non-judgmental relationships centered around deep listening. I am a Christian and if you would like to discuss your Christian faith, I would be happy to offer faith-based counseling.
I am a firm believer that counseling can benefit the personal growth of any individual. In a therapeutic relationship, this growth comes through the ongoing journey where you are able to safely discuss mental illness, process difficult events, and learn tools for holistic healing. I believe it is my job as a counselor to assist you in uncovering solutions, building confidence, and finding direction in life. I place a high value on therapeutic, non-judgmental relationships centered around deep listening. I am a Christian and if you would like to discuss your Christian faith, I would be happy to offer faith-based counseling.
(503) 809-5489 View (503) 809-5489
Photo of Seth Chapman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Seth Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples clarify and strengthen their relationship goals. Learning how to build more satisfying relationships leads to lasting change and empowerment. Old, less helpful ways of thinking are replaced with new, more realistic ideas of self-acceptance and how to rely on others. The result is a clearer picture of one's strengths, limitations, and belonging in the world.
I help individuals and couples clarify and strengthen their relationship goals. Learning how to build more satisfying relationships leads to lasting change and empowerment. Old, less helpful ways of thinking are replaced with new, more realistic ideas of self-acceptance and how to rely on others. The result is a clearer picture of one's strengths, limitations, and belonging in the world.
(971) 306-4814 View (971) 306-4814
Photo of Lena Crandell in Portland, OR
Lena Crandell
WHNP-BC, CSC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to help you have a happier and more satisfying sex life, without pain, distress or shame. With over a decade of experience as a Nurse Practitioner in the field of sexual health, my biopsychosocial approach to your care will include advice about both physiological and psychological factors that may be contributing to your sexual concerns. I am happy see clients of all genders and sexual orientations and I am supportive of all relationship styles.
My goal is to help you have a happier and more satisfying sex life, without pain, distress or shame. With over a decade of experience as a Nurse Practitioner in the field of sexual health, my biopsychosocial approach to your care will include advice about both physiological and psychological factors that may be contributing to your sexual concerns. I am happy see clients of all genders and sexual orientations and I am supportive of all relationship styles.
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Photo of Donald K Bonner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Donald K Bonner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
There are many challenges in life that may inhibit our creativity and preoccupy our minds, resulting in rumination, mood swings, and anxiety. My name is Donald Bonner, LCSW, LLC and I provide mental health treatment to empower the client to find their authentic self and achieve their full potential.
There are many challenges in life that may inhibit our creativity and preoccupy our minds, resulting in rumination, mood swings, and anxiety. My name is Donald Bonner, LCSW, LLC and I provide mental health treatment to empower the client to find their authentic self and achieve their full potential.
(971) 239-4081 View (971) 239-4081
Photo of Dr. Claudia Kritz, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Claudia Kritz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
I practice a dynamic style of therapy that is rooted in creating a supportive, caring environment where we establish a good working relationship that fosters self-awareness and insight. I work in-depth with you to discover how past family experiences may (often unconsciously) influence present day issues. We work to understand how difficult situations of the past contribute to longstanding frequently dysfunctional behavior patterns or negative self-perceptions. Therapy can help heal painful emotional wounds and relieve symptoms, improve self-acceptance and coping, improve relationship quality and overall life and work satisfaction.
I practice a dynamic style of therapy that is rooted in creating a supportive, caring environment where we establish a good working relationship that fosters self-awareness and insight. I work in-depth with you to discover how past family experiences may (often unconsciously) influence present day issues. We work to understand how difficult situations of the past contribute to longstanding frequently dysfunctional behavior patterns or negative self-perceptions. Therapy can help heal painful emotional wounds and relieve symptoms, improve self-acceptance and coping, improve relationship quality and overall life and work satisfaction.
(503) 852-9377 View (503) 852-9377

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

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% 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.