Therapists in Mesa, AZ

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Photo of Andrea Avalos, MS, LAC, Counselor
Andrea Avalos
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Do you feel anxious? Do you feel like you will always struggle? Do you feel like you you will always feel there is no hope for a better future? I help clients find the root cause of the issues that affect you. I am a trauma-informed therapist, and I want clients to find freedom from what affects them, and I believe through a trauma-informed approach, freedom and joy and a better future are possible.
Do you feel anxious? Do you feel like you will always struggle? Do you feel like you you will always feel there is no hope for a better future? I help clients find the root cause of the issues that affect you. I am a trauma-informed therapist, and I want clients to find freedom from what affects them, and I believe through a trauma-informed approach, freedom and joy and a better future are possible.
(480) 906-4460 View (480) 906-4460
Photo of Elle Fultz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elle Fultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85201  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! Love, self-care, healthy relationships, and communication are essential for people to thrive. We all struggle from time to time in life with relationships, personal growth, setting boundaries, managing stress and difficult emotions. I can help you navigate through each of these challenges. It can be difficult to ask for help, but in doing so you are taking the first step in creating a healthier and more fulfilling life. If what you have tried isn’t working, reach out and get the guidance that you have been searching for. I welcome all identities, orientations, and backgrounds.
Currently accepting new clients! Love, self-care, healthy relationships, and communication are essential for people to thrive. We all struggle from time to time in life with relationships, personal growth, setting boundaries, managing stress and difficult emotions. I can help you navigate through each of these challenges. It can be difficult to ask for help, but in doing so you are taking the first step in creating a healthier and more fulfilling life. If what you have tried isn’t working, reach out and get the guidance that you have been searching for. I welcome all identities, orientations, and backgrounds.
(480) 210-7723 View (480) 210-7723
Photo of Colleen Bartruff, MSCC, MHA, LPC, PMH-C, Doula, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Bartruff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCC, MHA, LPC, PMH-C, Doula
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Welcome to Resilient Roots Health, a space where you matter. Whether you are navigating the complexities of parenthood, co-parenting, facing the challenges of perinatal life, or dealing with anxiety, depression, or personal struggles, you’re not alone. As a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health, women's mental health, blended families, parenting, and relationships, I understand the weight you may be carrying. You might be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or uncertain about the future and how to move forward. Here, we’ll work together to create a path forward—one that brings clarity, healing, cohesion, and strength.
Welcome to Resilient Roots Health, a space where you matter. Whether you are navigating the complexities of parenthood, co-parenting, facing the challenges of perinatal life, or dealing with anxiety, depression, or personal struggles, you’re not alone. As a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health, women's mental health, blended families, parenting, and relationships, I understand the weight you may be carrying. You might be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or uncertain about the future and how to move forward. Here, we’ll work together to create a path forward—one that brings clarity, healing, cohesion, and strength.
(480) 680-0104 View (480) 680-0104
Photo of Shana Smith, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shana Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85207  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Are you feeling like your past won't stay there? Like it keeps popping up like an uninvited guest? Or possibly the idea of speaking up or going somewhere new feels equivalent to hiking Mount Everest? Maybe both of these apply or only slightly describe what you're feeling. That's ok! I've worked over the past decade to support people with working through their past so that they feel calm and comfortable in their present. I specialize working with people dealing with anxiety and trauma with a sub-focus of ADHD. My goal is to support you with no longer needing therapy and working myself out of a job.
Accepting New Clients. Are you feeling like your past won't stay there? Like it keeps popping up like an uninvited guest? Or possibly the idea of speaking up or going somewhere new feels equivalent to hiking Mount Everest? Maybe both of these apply or only slightly describe what you're feeling. That's ok! I've worked over the past decade to support people with working through their past so that they feel calm and comfortable in their present. I specialize working with people dealing with anxiety and trauma with a sub-focus of ADHD. My goal is to support you with no longer needing therapy and working myself out of a job.
(480) 485-4516 View (480) 485-4516
Photo of Karla Storey, MS, LAC, Counselor
Karla Storey
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
We are more than just our thoughts. I create a safe environment for you to explore your past and reshape your narrative, embracing the mind-body-spirit connection. Many clients I work with are struggling with the effects of childhood and relational trauma, which may include anxiety, fear of abandonment, difficulty setting boundaries, and low self-esteem. This type of trauma can result from neglect, abuse, betrayal, or abandonment, and it deeply affects a person's ability to form healthy, secure attachments with others later in life.
We are more than just our thoughts. I create a safe environment for you to explore your past and reshape your narrative, embracing the mind-body-spirit connection. Many clients I work with are struggling with the effects of childhood and relational trauma, which may include anxiety, fear of abandonment, difficulty setting boundaries, and low self-esteem. This type of trauma can result from neglect, abuse, betrayal, or abandonment, and it deeply affects a person's ability to form healthy, secure attachments with others later in life.
(480) 210-1637 View (480) 210-1637
Photo of Latice Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor
Latice Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Hello! My name is Latice, it has always been my passion to work with others and assist them to find their path of contentment and peace. I have experience and expertise working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, obsessive compulsive disorder, and life adjustment issues. I am also trauma trained in EMDR. Currently, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couple's in a private practice setting. My focus is to help others meet their life goals by providing an atmosphere of acceptance, warmth and partnership.
Hello! My name is Latice, it has always been my passion to work with others and assist them to find their path of contentment and peace. I have experience and expertise working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, obsessive compulsive disorder, and life adjustment issues. I am also trauma trained in EMDR. Currently, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couple's in a private practice setting. My focus is to help others meet their life goals by providing an atmosphere of acceptance, warmth and partnership.
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Photo of Laurie Arnold, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurie Arnold
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85212
Not accepting new clients
Are you navigating through rough waters in your marriage, seeking clarity & a way forward? I'm thrilled you've found your way here. I'm Laurie, a seasoned Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of dedicated experience, licensed in Arizona & Colorado. My passion lies in helping couples like you rediscover connection, deepen understanding & build a resilient partnership that stands the test of time.I specialize in working with married couples committed to enhancing their relationship. Whether you're facing recent challenges or longstanding issues, my practice is geared towards couples who are motivated to work & heal together.
Are you navigating through rough waters in your marriage, seeking clarity & a way forward? I'm thrilled you've found your way here. I'm Laurie, a seasoned Marriage & Family Therapist with over 20 years of dedicated experience, licensed in Arizona & Colorado. My passion lies in helping couples like you rediscover connection, deepen understanding & build a resilient partnership that stands the test of time.I specialize in working with married couples committed to enhancing their relationship. Whether you're facing recent challenges or longstanding issues, my practice is geared towards couples who are motivated to work & heal together.
(480) 780-3523 View (480) 780-3523
Photo of Maki Obana, PhD, Psychologist
Maki Obana
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85202
I believe that people have the innate power to positively change the course of their lives with a supportive environment. When you are in a challenging situation, you naturally feel ambivalence about change since it requires letting go of the familiar for something unknown. If you're looking for extra support and guidance to get through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you.
I believe that people have the innate power to positively change the course of their lives with a supportive environment. When you are in a challenging situation, you naturally feel ambivalence about change since it requires letting go of the familiar for something unknown. If you're looking for extra support and guidance to get through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you.
(480) 525-6849 View (480) 525-6849
Photo of Lorre Anderson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lorre Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
I treat clients ranging in age from 15+. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, addictions, etc. CBT and other therapies can also be implemented to assist in addressing needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, sexual concerns, relationship issues, stress, etc, please feel free to call and schedule an appointment.
I treat clients ranging in age from 15+. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, addictions, etc. CBT and other therapies can also be implemented to assist in addressing needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, sexual concerns, relationship issues, stress, etc, please feel free to call and schedule an appointment.
(602) 313-0273 View (602) 313-0273
Photo of Patti Bullen (Accepting New Patients), LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patti Bullen (Accepting New Patients)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85215
Are you struggling to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable? As a seasoned clinician, I foster a safe, trusting environment to enable growth and healing. With over 35 years of direct clinical experience as a therapist, I specialize in individual therapy focusing on various issues, including anxiety, depression, post-partum and infertility trauma, work and relationship stress, and much more. I provide evidenced-based interventions tailored to support your journey towards emotional well-being.
Are you struggling to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable? As a seasoned clinician, I foster a safe, trusting environment to enable growth and healing. With over 35 years of direct clinical experience as a therapist, I specialize in individual therapy focusing on various issues, including anxiety, depression, post-partum and infertility trauma, work and relationship stress, and much more. I provide evidenced-based interventions tailored to support your journey towards emotional well-being.
(480) 520-4118 View (480) 520-4118
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Skinner, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Skinner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204  (Online Only)
Evening and Weekend availability only. Are you struggling but you have no idea why? Unfortunately, many people who deal with mental health problems never receive an appropriate diagnosis and thus can be treated incorrectly. Too many times people come to me with a diagnosis of anxiety or depression, when in fact they are dealing with something else like PTSD or OCD. As a psychologist, I am trained to provide a comprehensive psychological evaluation to accurately determine what you are dealing with so we can treat it appropriately. If you want to make sure you are receiving the right treatment for the right issue I can help.
Evening and Weekend availability only. Are you struggling but you have no idea why? Unfortunately, many people who deal with mental health problems never receive an appropriate diagnosis and thus can be treated incorrectly. Too many times people come to me with a diagnosis of anxiety or depression, when in fact they are dealing with something else like PTSD or OCD. As a psychologist, I am trained to provide a comprehensive psychological evaluation to accurately determine what you are dealing with so we can treat it appropriately. If you want to make sure you are receiving the right treatment for the right issue I can help.
(773) 694-9509 View (773) 694-9509
Photo of Cynthia Chizewick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Chizewick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204  (Online Only)
I have been supporting individuals just like you for over 12 years. I am committed to helping people learn how to live their! My practice focuses on targeting anythin that stands in your way of functioning as your best self. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach. This means we work together, as a team to improve your whole life-not just your mental or emotional health. I am a seeker, so I am ALWAYS looking for new ways through research, evidence-based practices, and new educational opportunities to be of service to those looking for support. The face of someone who looks for support looks like mine
I have been supporting individuals just like you for over 12 years. I am committed to helping people learn how to live their! My practice focuses on targeting anythin that stands in your way of functioning as your best self. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach. This means we work together, as a team to improve your whole life-not just your mental or emotional health. I am a seeker, so I am ALWAYS looking for new ways through research, evidence-based practices, and new educational opportunities to be of service to those looking for support. The face of someone who looks for support looks like mine
(480) 347-9759 View (480) 347-9759
Photo of Jenna Muñiz, LAC, Counselor
Jenna Muñiz
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling out of control and overwhelmed? Like your brain is stuck on repeat: “Why me? Why am I like this? Why can’t I change?” Experiencing emotional responses that leave you feeling ashamed, misunderstood or that something is wrong with you? You find yourself in chaotic relationships, overcompensating to fill a void. Lost and alone in your journey and mentally and emotionally isolated from others. At the end of the day you feel hopeless about finding relief. I recognize that traumatic experiences are a spectrum that we each experience uniquely. I treat trauma from a relational approach and focus on nervous system (co)regulation.
Feeling out of control and overwhelmed? Like your brain is stuck on repeat: “Why me? Why am I like this? Why can’t I change?” Experiencing emotional responses that leave you feeling ashamed, misunderstood or that something is wrong with you? You find yourself in chaotic relationships, overcompensating to fill a void. Lost and alone in your journey and mentally and emotionally isolated from others. At the end of the day you feel hopeless about finding relief. I recognize that traumatic experiences are a spectrum that we each experience uniquely. I treat trauma from a relational approach and focus on nervous system (co)regulation.
(480) 418-0639 View (480) 418-0639
Photo of Roy Chukwuemeka, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roy Chukwuemeka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206  (Online Only)
As a therapist with expertise in trauma , abuse and depravation I enjoy helping my clients to identify their unique challenges, needs, and goals. I take pride in providing compassionate, tailored care. Working together we focus on helping our clients reclaim their lives and move forward with confidence.
As a therapist with expertise in trauma , abuse and depravation I enjoy helping my clients to identify their unique challenges, needs, and goals. I take pride in providing compassionate, tailored care. Working together we focus on helping our clients reclaim their lives and move forward with confidence.
(480) 470-9720 View (480) 470-9720
Photo of Dr. Randi Gray, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Randi Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to mend and heal the broken parts of their soul and find peace, happiness and contentment. I have experienced the power and effectiveness of embarking on the journey of healing through counseling and felt the positive influences in my own life. I assist others in overcoming depression, anxiety, addiction, broken relationships, past traumatic experiences, loss and low self-esteem. I have the privilege of walking the path of healing with my clients allowing them to become strong, resilient, happy and healthy individuals who enjoy life and all that it has to offer.
I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to mend and heal the broken parts of their soul and find peace, happiness and contentment. I have experienced the power and effectiveness of embarking on the journey of healing through counseling and felt the positive influences in my own life. I assist others in overcoming depression, anxiety, addiction, broken relationships, past traumatic experiences, loss and low self-esteem. I have the privilege of walking the path of healing with my clients allowing them to become strong, resilient, happy and healthy individuals who enjoy life and all that it has to offer.
(480) 568-1134 View (480) 568-1134
Photo of Ron Martin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ron Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85201
Hello, my name is Ron Martin, LPC. I am a licensed therapist with over 16 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have assisted individuals facing a range of challenges, including trauma, ADD, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I have extensive experience in couples therapy and advocacy within school systems.
Hello, my name is Ron Martin, LPC. I am a licensed therapist with over 16 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have assisted individuals facing a range of challenges, including trauma, ADD, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I have extensive experience in couples therapy and advocacy within school systems.
(928) 504-1822 View (928) 504-1822
Photo of Jessica Reid, MS, LPC, Counselor
Jessica Reid
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Accepting New Clients! My passion is in helping to facilitate and cultivate healthy behavioral approaches in the marital (couple), family, and individual dynamic by creating effective changes, hope, and healing. I have experience working with individuals, children, families, couples,and those struggling with addictions, from all walks of life and cultural diversities. I encourage personal growth and healing with an emphasis on solution-focused therapy while integrating one's own spirituality, I believe we all have our own answers within us and I want to help facilitate in finding them!
Accepting New Clients! My passion is in helping to facilitate and cultivate healthy behavioral approaches in the marital (couple), family, and individual dynamic by creating effective changes, hope, and healing. I have experience working with individuals, children, families, couples,and those struggling with addictions, from all walks of life and cultural diversities. I encourage personal growth and healing with an emphasis on solution-focused therapy while integrating one's own spirituality, I believe we all have our own answers within us and I want to help facilitate in finding them!
(480) 428-4195 View (480) 428-4195
Photo of Amanda Endres, LAC, Counselor
Amanda Endres
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and emotions may become difficult to navigate. Everyone deserves a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported. I believe therapy is most effective when it offers a safe and comfortable environment to explore your thoughts, experiences, and emotions. As a mental health therapist, I value authenticity, open-mindedness, non-judgment, transparency, and a sense of humor. These values shape not only my approach to therapy but also my own personal and professional life.
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and emotions may become difficult to navigate. Everyone deserves a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported. I believe therapy is most effective when it offers a safe and comfortable environment to explore your thoughts, experiences, and emotions. As a mental health therapist, I value authenticity, open-mindedness, non-judgment, transparency, and a sense of humor. These values shape not only my approach to therapy but also my own personal and professional life.
(602) 675-6185 x1 View (602) 675-6185 x1
Photo of Caylie Brock, LAC, APTT, Counselor
Caylie Brock
Counselor, LAC, APTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85209
I specialize in working with people who have experienced betrayal trauma, infidelity, abuse, childhood trauma, and anxiety. My goal is to empower my clients with the tools they need to feel better. At the start of treatment my clients report feeling intense sadness, overwhelmed with worry, intrusive thoughts, disrupted sleep, irritability, and many other unpleasant feelings. You aren’t crazy! Together we can work together to discover why you are experiencing those symptoms and what you need to feel like yourself again.
I specialize in working with people who have experienced betrayal trauma, infidelity, abuse, childhood trauma, and anxiety. My goal is to empower my clients with the tools they need to feel better. At the start of treatment my clients report feeling intense sadness, overwhelmed with worry, intrusive thoughts, disrupted sleep, irritability, and many other unpleasant feelings. You aren’t crazy! Together we can work together to discover why you are experiencing those symptoms and what you need to feel like yourself again.
(480) 418-8296 View (480) 418-8296
Photo of Avi Vieira, PsyD, Psychologist
Avi Vieira
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
I earned both my masters and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University - Phoenix. I completed my clinical internship at The University of Colorado Boulder's Counseling and Psychological Services Center where I created an integrated mental health and medical program for LGBTQ+ students and Trans Care Specialty Team. I have experience working with community agencies and supports addressing a wide variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, adolescent/young adult issues, substance use, eating disorders, and Sexual/Gender Identity concerns.
I earned both my masters and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University - Phoenix. I completed my clinical internship at The University of Colorado Boulder's Counseling and Psychological Services Center where I created an integrated mental health and medical program for LGBTQ+ students and Trans Care Specialty Team. I have experience working with community agencies and supports addressing a wide variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, adolescent/young adult issues, substance use, eating disorders, and Sexual/Gender Identity concerns.
(602) 313-1615 View (602) 313-1615
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mesa, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$136

Therapists in Mesa, AZ who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Relationship Issues
66% Self Esteem
62% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Mesa, AZ see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mesa?

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.