Therapists in Houston, TX

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Photo of Erik Halgunseth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Erik Halgunseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77036
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (76583) with 11 years of experience. I received my master's degree from Texas University-San Antonio in Counseling and a bachelor's degree from Texas Lutheran University in Theology. I have worked with adolescents and adults. I have worked with adolescents and adults. I am bilingual and have worked effectively with Spanish speakers. I typically counsel clients dealing with Anxiety, Depression, and Anger among other issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (76583) with 11 years of experience. I received my master's degree from Texas University-San Antonio in Counseling and a bachelor's degree from Texas Lutheran University in Theology. I have worked with adolescents and adults. I have worked with adolescents and adults. I am bilingual and have worked effectively with Spanish speakers. I typically counsel clients dealing with Anxiety, Depression, and Anger among other issues.
(346) 553-1071 View (346) 553-1071
Photo of Gary L Russell, Counselor in Houston, TX
Gary L Russell
Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
I focus on adult individuals and couples. I help each client avoid distorted, destructive thinking, discover their authentic reality, and navigate challenges effectively. Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate (CSAT Candidate), EMDR trained, Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1 trained.
I focus on adult individuals and couples. I help each client avoid distorted, destructive thinking, discover their authentic reality, and navigate challenges effectively. Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate (CSAT Candidate), EMDR trained, Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1 trained.
(281) 688-1295 View (281) 688-1295
Photo of Dr. Jamaal M Fortner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Dr. Jamaal M Fortner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, MHA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77082  (Online Only)
The ideal therapy client is someone who seeks personal growth and emotional well-being. They may be experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or low self-esteem. They have a genuine desire for change and are open to exploring their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They value a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. Their goals include developing coping skills, improving self-awareness, fostering resilience, and achieving a greater sense of fulfillment and balance in life.
The ideal therapy client is someone who seeks personal growth and emotional well-being. They may be experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or low self-esteem. They have a genuine desire for change and are open to exploring their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They value a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. Their goals include developing coping skills, improving self-awareness, fostering resilience, and achieving a greater sense of fulfillment and balance in life.
(832) 637-6711 View (832) 637-6711
Photo of Danae Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Danae Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77057  (Online Only)
Danae passionate about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients. She is committed to helping her clients identify and navigate their feelings, learn healthier coping skills, and ultimately find hope and heal. She has worked with adults and adolescence with eating disorders, substance and behavioral addictions, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, co-dependency, trauma, anxiety, and depression. She has experience working in many levels of care including psychiatric hospitals, partial hospitalization programs, and intense outpatient programs.
Danae passionate about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients. She is committed to helping her clients identify and navigate their feelings, learn healthier coping skills, and ultimately find hope and heal. She has worked with adults and adolescence with eating disorders, substance and behavioral addictions, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, co-dependency, trauma, anxiety, and depression. She has experience working in many levels of care including psychiatric hospitals, partial hospitalization programs, and intense outpatient programs.
(212) 564-0480 View (212) 564-0480
Photo of Chelby Mendell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Chelby Mendell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007  (Online Only)
As an LCSW and psychotherapist, I offer individual therapy to clients 18 and older. I am committed to creating a judgment-free environment that is safe and supportive. Stress can present itself in many ways, causing us to feel disconnected from ourselves and others. It is typical for us to experience feelings of self-doubt. Our thoughts make it difficult for us to cope and achieve fulfillment in our lives. At times we feel overwhelmed and distressed, leading us to resort to unhealthy behaviors. I am here to guide and assist you in implementing the skills to reach your goals and move forward in your life.
As an LCSW and psychotherapist, I offer individual therapy to clients 18 and older. I am committed to creating a judgment-free environment that is safe and supportive. Stress can present itself in many ways, causing us to feel disconnected from ourselves and others. It is typical for us to experience feelings of self-doubt. Our thoughts make it difficult for us to cope and achieve fulfillment in our lives. At times we feel overwhelmed and distressed, leading us to resort to unhealthy behaviors. I am here to guide and assist you in implementing the skills to reach your goals and move forward in your life.
(346) 456-5885 View (346) 456-5885
Photo of New Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
New Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77090  (Online Only)
I provide mental health assessment, treatment planning, individual, family and group counseling to those who reside in the Texas area via telehealth/virtual services. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to reflect on their life, improve their understanding of their difficulties, and will work to identify ways to make important life changes. I enjoy working with children, adults, and families who want to improve their life and relationships. I specialize in working with clients on issues related to life transitions, relationships, family stress, self-esteem, and life satisfaction.
I provide mental health assessment, treatment planning, individual, family and group counseling to those who reside in the Texas area via telehealth/virtual services. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to reflect on their life, improve their understanding of their difficulties, and will work to identify ways to make important life changes. I enjoy working with children, adults, and families who want to improve their life and relationships. I specialize in working with clients on issues related to life transitions, relationships, family stress, self-esteem, and life satisfaction.
(832) 981-1007 View (832) 981-1007
Photo of Courtney Chiles-Cloud in Houston, TX
Courtney Chiles-Cloud
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007
Life transitions each person into various seasons that can leave a profound contribution to the individual’s experience. These seasons may come with losses and victories or struggles and successes. Sometimes we may find ourselves in a season that request the support and guidance of someone beyond ourselves. I believe during these periods we need a trusting ally to walk, jog or run alongside us. As your therapist and teammate, I am here to understand, support and empower you to blossom in your season of life. Together we will build an alliance that focuses on your growth, fulfillment and wellness.
Life transitions each person into various seasons that can leave a profound contribution to the individual’s experience. These seasons may come with losses and victories or struggles and successes. Sometimes we may find ourselves in a season that request the support and guidance of someone beyond ourselves. I believe during these periods we need a trusting ally to walk, jog or run alongside us. As your therapist and teammate, I am here to understand, support and empower you to blossom in your season of life. Together we will build an alliance that focuses on your growth, fulfillment and wellness.
(281) 205-1954 x520 View (281) 205-1954 x520
Photo of Debbi Brod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Debbi Brod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
Debbi specializes in guiding individuals and couples toward a more meaningful life. Her clients seek self-discovery and self-identity, and she incorporates life coaching to enhance authenticity in their relationships and address challenges. Debbi's approach is solutions-oriented, involving collaborative goal-setting and problem-solving. With a compassionate and modern approach, Debbi specializes in helping clients unearth their authentic selves, nurturing self-identity, fostering genuine connections, and bridging cognitive thinking with emotional intelligence.
Debbi specializes in guiding individuals and couples toward a more meaningful life. Her clients seek self-discovery and self-identity, and she incorporates life coaching to enhance authenticity in their relationships and address challenges. Debbi's approach is solutions-oriented, involving collaborative goal-setting and problem-solving. With a compassionate and modern approach, Debbi specializes in helping clients unearth their authentic selves, nurturing self-identity, fostering genuine connections, and bridging cognitive thinking with emotional intelligence.
(713) 705-6262 View (713) 705-6262
Photo of Danielle White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Danielle White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. I am dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, I will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. I can assist you in resolving your past pain, I will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. I am here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. I am dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, I will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. I can assist you in resolving your past pain, I will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. I am here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
(281) 378-5603 View (281) 378-5603
Photo of Edward John Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Edward John Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CHT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77036
My life mission has been to learn and understand the many different ways in which our unconscious mind controls our lives, and just as importantly, what to do about it. The fact is that for each and everyone of us, our own unconscious mind has developed and created mistaken and limiting beliefs about ourselves which limit us from reaching our full and complete potential and we are often not even aware of it. This process seems to be universal and reliable research shows that it begins in the very first weeks of life. This is why I focus on helping my clients to find approaches to change the way their own unconscious mind thinks.
My life mission has been to learn and understand the many different ways in which our unconscious mind controls our lives, and just as importantly, what to do about it. The fact is that for each and everyone of us, our own unconscious mind has developed and created mistaken and limiting beliefs about ourselves which limit us from reaching our full and complete potential and we are often not even aware of it. This process seems to be universal and reliable research shows that it begins in the very first weeks of life. This is why I focus on helping my clients to find approaches to change the way their own unconscious mind thinks.
(281) 712-6248 View (281) 712-6248
Photo of Raquel Hopkins, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Houston, TX
Raquel Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
Having experienced firsthand the complexities of adulthood, I intimately understands the challenges of balancing responsibilities while striving for personal growth. I have encountered many who grapple with overwhelming feelings, self-doubt, confidence challenges, and the pressure to navigate life smoothly. I will sit with you and assist with embracing positive change, finding inner peace, and build healthier connections to live a fulfilling, and whole life experience.
Having experienced firsthand the complexities of adulthood, I intimately understands the challenges of balancing responsibilities while striving for personal growth. I have encountered many who grapple with overwhelming feelings, self-doubt, confidence challenges, and the pressure to navigate life smoothly. I will sit with you and assist with embracing positive change, finding inner peace, and build healthier connections to live a fulfilling, and whole life experience.
(713) 575-2588 View (713) 575-2588
Photo of Paula Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Paula Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008
It can seem difficult at times to seek help but it can also be the bravest move you make. Our stories are never finished and we can keep writing new chapters and going in new directions with a little bit of guidance. Whether we are stuck because of current stressors or struggling due to life-long obstacles, it is never a bad time to ask for help and work through them. My goals are to inspire clients to write a more meaningful story according to their values and beliefs.
It can seem difficult at times to seek help but it can also be the bravest move you make. Our stories are never finished and we can keep writing new chapters and going in new directions with a little bit of guidance. Whether we are stuck because of current stressors or struggling due to life-long obstacles, it is never a bad time to ask for help and work through them. My goals are to inspire clients to write a more meaningful story according to their values and beliefs.
(346) 361-1744 View (346) 361-1744
Photo of Rosalia Vazquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Rosalia Vazquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77077  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a Spanish and English speaking psychotherapist ? Are you questioning: "Is counseling right for me?'' Are you looking for supervisor ? Maybe you are struggling with a difficult marriage, depression, grief, trauma, addiction or emotional pain. It is time to get help! Through self-awareness, and caring counseling, you might be able to find the peace that you deserve. Take a first step, call me Si quieres mejorar tu vida, llamame. Estoy aqqui para ayudrte a encontrar paz y tranquilidad.
Are you looking for a Spanish and English speaking psychotherapist ? Are you questioning: "Is counseling right for me?'' Are you looking for supervisor ? Maybe you are struggling with a difficult marriage, depression, grief, trauma, addiction or emotional pain. It is time to get help! Through self-awareness, and caring counseling, you might be able to find the peace that you deserve. Take a first step, call me Si quieres mejorar tu vida, llamame. Estoy aqqui para ayudrte a encontrar paz y tranquilidad.
(713) 999-4441 View (713) 999-4441
Photo of Charlotte Judd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Charlotte Judd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
Are you struggling with chronic illness? Have you experienced traumas and you can't seem to recover? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your daily functioning? Many of my Clients report that they start to feel better once taking the initial leap into therapy. So, I want to congratulate you on taking the first step in beginning your healing journey. I believe that healing can happen once you feel heard. Working collaboratively we will create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and is guided by evidenced based practices. My Clients develop lifelong skills to make the most out of their lives.
Are you struggling with chronic illness? Have you experienced traumas and you can't seem to recover? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your daily functioning? Many of my Clients report that they start to feel better once taking the initial leap into therapy. So, I want to congratulate you on taking the first step in beginning your healing journey. I believe that healing can happen once you feel heard. Working collaboratively we will create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and is guided by evidenced based practices. My Clients develop lifelong skills to make the most out of their lives.
(832) 358-3415 View (832) 358-3415
Photo of Rel Sharp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Rel Sharp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm Vince! Are you struggling to navigate everything life is throwing at you in the increasingly hectic world? I love exploring deep down the funnel of emotions with my clients using Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral strategies. Together we can tackle your anxiety, depression and the relational issues that come into play that keep you from being your ideal self, whether that be in your relationships, your family, your career, or another important area of your life.
Hi there! I'm Vince! Are you struggling to navigate everything life is throwing at you in the increasingly hectic world? I love exploring deep down the funnel of emotions with my clients using Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral strategies. Together we can tackle your anxiety, depression and the relational issues that come into play that keep you from being your ideal self, whether that be in your relationships, your family, your career, or another important area of your life.
(832) 990-1366 View (832) 990-1366
Photo of Eric Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Eric Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CDWF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
I am an addiction specialist treating compulsive behaviors for the last ten years. I have helped people struggling with substance, food, gambling and compulsive sexual behaviors. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a certified sexual addiction therapist. With this experience I have specialized in developing techniques to support the parents and partners in relationship with those in active addiction. There is a reason addiction is our number one public health issue and the sooner people intervene on themselves or others the sooner recovery begins.
I am an addiction specialist treating compulsive behaviors for the last ten years. I have helped people struggling with substance, food, gambling and compulsive sexual behaviors. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a certified sexual addiction therapist. With this experience I have specialized in developing techniques to support the parents and partners in relationship with those in active addiction. There is a reason addiction is our number one public health issue and the sooner people intervene on themselves or others the sooner recovery begins.
(281) 547-0952 View (281) 547-0952
Photo of Tranquil Journey's Counseling Services , Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Tranquil Journey's Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPAA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77045
Are you struggling with day to day living and finding a peaceful way to navigate life's obstacles. We all face this journey, and you are not alone. As an advocate and professional in the helping field for 16 years, I would like to provide therapeutic services and interventions to assist you in finding your sense of peace. Whether your journey's obstacles include emotional barriers, family discord, or building your sense of professional strength, I would like to walk down this journey with you.
Are you struggling with day to day living and finding a peaceful way to navigate life's obstacles. We all face this journey, and you are not alone. As an advocate and professional in the helping field for 16 years, I would like to provide therapeutic services and interventions to assist you in finding your sense of peace. Whether your journey's obstacles include emotional barriers, family discord, or building your sense of professional strength, I would like to walk down this journey with you.
(346) 988-2201 View (346) 988-2201
Photo of Tricia Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Tricia Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Are you seeking a big change in your life? Is there something or someone that is preventing you from experiencing happiness or joy in your life? Therapy can be an empowering, therapeutic, and enriching experience that can CHANGE.YOUR.LIFE. I help clients navigate the most difficult hardships in their life, offer a positive perspective, and support clients in life-changing events/transition times. For every client that walks through my door, I help ease emotional burdens and provide a safe and special sanctuary for clients to be themselves free of judgement.
Are you seeking a big change in your life? Is there something or someone that is preventing you from experiencing happiness or joy in your life? Therapy can be an empowering, therapeutic, and enriching experience that can CHANGE.YOUR.LIFE. I help clients navigate the most difficult hardships in their life, offer a positive perspective, and support clients in life-changing events/transition times. For every client that walks through my door, I help ease emotional burdens and provide a safe and special sanctuary for clients to be themselves free of judgement.
(713) 999-4654 View (713) 999-4654
Photo of Malka Moskovitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Houston, TX
Malka Moskovitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77096
I have a number of years of experience providing mental health therapy, and have worked with a range of issues. I have successfully treated individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, difficulty coping with life transitions, grief, family trauma and family issues. I have experience in marital issues, couples counseling, as well as relationship issues and divorce, work issues, suicidal thoughts and depression, self-esteem issues, teenage social-emotional issues, and adult psychiatry. I have a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University, and am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the State of Texas.
I have a number of years of experience providing mental health therapy, and have worked with a range of issues. I have successfully treated individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, difficulty coping with life transitions, grief, family trauma and family issues. I have experience in marital issues, couples counseling, as well as relationship issues and divorce, work issues, suicidal thoughts and depression, self-esteem issues, teenage social-emotional issues, and adult psychiatry. I have a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University, and am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the State of Texas.
(713) 842-9403 View (713) 842-9403
Photo of Gorgeous Minds Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Houston, TX
Gorgeous Minds Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Gorgeous Minds Counseling is a private practice duo providing supportive counseling to adults throughout Missouri and Texas. Our goal is to empower everyday people to share their stories, understand themselves, and enhance living.
Gorgeous Minds Counseling is a private practice duo providing supportive counseling to adults throughout Missouri and Texas. Our goal is to empower everyday people to share their stories, understand themselves, and enhance living.
(346) 289-2270 View (346) 289-2270

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Houston, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Houston, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
68% Relationship Issues
66% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Houston, TX see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Houston?

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.