Therapists in Tempe, AZ

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Photo of Devon Herndon, Licensed Professional Counselor
Devon Herndon
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Devon. For more than 11 years, I've been practicing as a licensed mental health therapist, and prior to that, I spent time in the corporate sector and in the middle-school classroom. Though my titles have changed through the years, the constant has been that I've always been a trainer, mentor, coach, and educator committed to helping others. This journey has provided me with a wealth of substance and life experiences to draw from in my practice. I’ve undergone extensive education to be in my current role, but that doesn’t make me an expert in your life.
Hello, I'm Devon. For more than 11 years, I've been practicing as a licensed mental health therapist, and prior to that, I spent time in the corporate sector and in the middle-school classroom. Though my titles have changed through the years, the constant has been that I've always been a trainer, mentor, coach, and educator committed to helping others. This journey has provided me with a wealth of substance and life experiences to draw from in my practice. I’ve undergone extensive education to be in my current role, but that doesn’t make me an expert in your life.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Teresa Miller, MEd, MSMFT, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Teresa Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MEd, MSMFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Life can bring both joy and pain. Sometimes the challenges we experience can feel overwhelming making it hard to find hope. Showing up and doing the vulnerable work towards healing is courageous. I have had the privilege of working with children and families in the field of education for 15 years. It was during my career as an educator I realized my passion to come alongside people facing difficulties that life can bring. It is my desire to walk with others through their pain towards healing and hope.
Life can bring both joy and pain. Sometimes the challenges we experience can feel overwhelming making it hard to find hope. Showing up and doing the vulnerable work towards healing is courageous. I have had the privilege of working with children and families in the field of education for 15 years. It was during my career as an educator I realized my passion to come alongside people facing difficulties that life can bring. It is my desire to walk with others through their pain towards healing and hope.
(520) 523-2923 x28 View (520) 523-2923 x28
Photo of Kristin Meiner, LPC, MAPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Meiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Hi, I'm Kristin! I'm here to provide a judgment free atmosphere while helping you navigate the inevitable challenges we face throughout life. I pride myself on building strong rapport with clients, as I believe this is crucial to begin working toward real change together. I'm in the helping profession mostly due to my own life experiences, which gives me the ability to have strong empathy for clients. I have a true passion for helping others. My approach is holistic, realistic and person-centered. I am direct and honest because I care about your growth. I put an emphasis on positivity and building a solid set of coping skills.
Hi, I'm Kristin! I'm here to provide a judgment free atmosphere while helping you navigate the inevitable challenges we face throughout life. I pride myself on building strong rapport with clients, as I believe this is crucial to begin working toward real change together. I'm in the helping profession mostly due to my own life experiences, which gives me the ability to have strong empathy for clients. I have a true passion for helping others. My approach is holistic, realistic and person-centered. I am direct and honest because I care about your growth. I put an emphasis on positivity and building a solid set of coping skills.
(360) 860-5654 View (360) 860-5654
Photo of Emma Hertzel, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Hertzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
***Not currently accepting new patients at this time*** Whether it's a recent loss, a traumatic event, or even our own negative thinking, life circumstances can get in the way of living the life we want. When this becomes overwhelming, sometimes it's hard even to make the simplest decisions. Therapy can help you work through difficult emotions and unhealthy habits that lead to that "stuck" feeling. My job is to help you navigate through the things that get in the way of you living a valued life, a life where you wake up each day feeling confident and motivated to achieve your goals.
***Not currently accepting new patients at this time*** Whether it's a recent loss, a traumatic event, or even our own negative thinking, life circumstances can get in the way of living the life we want. When this becomes overwhelming, sometimes it's hard even to make the simplest decisions. Therapy can help you work through difficult emotions and unhealthy habits that lead to that "stuck" feeling. My job is to help you navigate through the things that get in the way of you living a valued life, a life where you wake up each day feeling confident and motivated to achieve your goals.
(480) 725-5217 View (480) 725-5217
Photo of Lindsay Rothschild, LCSW, CCTP, TCYM, SAP, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Rothschild
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, TCYM, SAP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My mission is to support you in activating your own inner healing wisdom as you move towards experiencing wholeness, expansion and transformation. I utilize a combination of body-based interventions from ancient wisdom traditions and traditional psychotherapy methods to address the psychological, spiritual, emotional and physiological needs of each individual, creating a more integrative, effective, and holistic approach to healing.
My mission is to support you in activating your own inner healing wisdom as you move towards experiencing wholeness, expansion and transformation. I utilize a combination of body-based interventions from ancient wisdom traditions and traditional psychotherapy methods to address the psychological, spiritual, emotional and physiological needs of each individual, creating a more integrative, effective, and holistic approach to healing.
(480) 210-5969 View (480) 210-5969
Photo of Amanda Araki, PhD, Psychologist
Amanda Araki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Araki is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, serious mental illness, and substance use issues. Dr. Araki specializes in a strength-based approach, focusing on the inherent resilience and potential within each individual. Dr. Araki believes in the significant roles that biopsychosocial factors play in mental health and emphasizes the importance of multifaceted relationships in our lives. By integrating these perspectives, Dr. Araki provides comprehensive care that addresses the interplay between biological, psychological, social, and cultural influences.
Dr. Araki is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, serious mental illness, and substance use issues. Dr. Araki specializes in a strength-based approach, focusing on the inherent resilience and potential within each individual. Dr. Araki believes in the significant roles that biopsychosocial factors play in mental health and emphasizes the importance of multifaceted relationships in our lives. By integrating these perspectives, Dr. Araki provides comprehensive care that addresses the interplay between biological, psychological, social, and cultural influences.
(520) 677-3465 View (520) 677-3465
Photo of Rhea N Young, MA, LAC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Rhea N Young
Counselor, MA, LAC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Are you looking to be happy? Would you like skills to help you cope through some of the most stressful, sad, or troubling times in your life? Or are you looking to improve who you are and how you manage your relationships? I help clients increase self-esteem and learn more about themselves so they can reach their highest and best self. Though the power of empathy, experience, and knowledge, I have been a successful therapist since 2015.
Are you looking to be happy? Would you like skills to help you cope through some of the most stressful, sad, or troubling times in your life? Or are you looking to improve who you are and how you manage your relationships? I help clients increase self-esteem and learn more about themselves so they can reach their highest and best self. Though the power of empathy, experience, and knowledge, I have been a successful therapist since 2015.
(480) 531-5162 View (480) 531-5162
Photo of Kristi Plinski, MSPC, MEd, LAC, Counselor
Kristi Plinski
Counselor, MSPC, MEd, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Currently accepting new clients. Life is an incredible journey. There are times that life events are overwhelming or feel as if they exceed our capacity. These events can lead to anxiety, depression or feelings of being stuck. This level of stress can result in problematic relationships, low self-worth or lack of progress.
Currently accepting new clients. Life is an incredible journey. There are times that life events are overwhelming or feel as if they exceed our capacity. These events can lead to anxiety, depression or feelings of being stuck. This level of stress can result in problematic relationships, low self-worth or lack of progress.
(480) 605-1485 View (480) 605-1485
Photo of Ashley Franchetto, MA, LAC, Counselor
Ashley Franchetto
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Mental health is fluid, I work to address the issues you're experiencing with humor and acceptance. I encompass compassion and authenticity to help you process generational trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression or just general life transitions. Working together we will create your individualized treatment plan to fit your current needs and concerns.
Mental health is fluid, I work to address the issues you're experiencing with humor and acceptance. I encompass compassion and authenticity to help you process generational trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression or just general life transitions. Working together we will create your individualized treatment plan to fit your current needs and concerns.
(480) 428-2944 View (480) 428-2944
Photo of Patricia Chase, LPC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Chase
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about working with teenagers and young adults. Adolescence and emerging adulthood are key transition times of life that can be scary, exciting, confusing, and at times, lonely. I want to help you navigate life’s unknowns with an open ear, a loving heart and when needed, a sense of humor! My favorite part of therapy is the unlimited and unknown strength inside each person and allowing you to find that strength within and begin to harness it to build towards your future. I love empowering you, helping you find your path, and managing changes and challenges with your head held high.
I am passionate about working with teenagers and young adults. Adolescence and emerging adulthood are key transition times of life that can be scary, exciting, confusing, and at times, lonely. I want to help you navigate life’s unknowns with an open ear, a loving heart and when needed, a sense of humor! My favorite part of therapy is the unlimited and unknown strength inside each person and allowing you to find that strength within and begin to harness it to build towards your future. I love empowering you, helping you find your path, and managing changes and challenges with your head held high.
(602) 428-7557 View (602) 428-7557
Mary Oakley
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, CC-AASP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families. My therapy clients range from ages 4 to 80 and I see a variety of treatment issues including, but not limited to, behavior problems, ADHD, learning disability, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, and life adjustment. My philosophy is that the therapy session belongs to the client, and everyone's needs are different. Therefore, I tailor my approach to each individual client. I aim to provide emotional support as well as teach tactics and strategies to help my clients reach beyond their comfort zone to accomplish their goals.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families. My therapy clients range from ages 4 to 80 and I see a variety of treatment issues including, but not limited to, behavior problems, ADHD, learning disability, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, and life adjustment. My philosophy is that the therapy session belongs to the client, and everyone's needs are different. Therefore, I tailor my approach to each individual client. I aim to provide emotional support as well as teach tactics and strategies to help my clients reach beyond their comfort zone to accomplish their goals.
(480) 800-4459 View (480) 800-4459
Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) I can provide personalized and integrative therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is safe, non-judgmental, and fosters the growth of my clients. I will utilize evidenced based approaches and can work with you to address various challenges such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Let's work together to transform your relationships!
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) I can provide personalized and integrative therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is safe, non-judgmental, and fosters the growth of my clients. I will utilize evidenced based approaches and can work with you to address various challenges such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Let's work together to transform your relationships!
(480) 470-1709 View (480) 470-1709
Photo of Kandi Lee Crandell - Healing Oak Counseling Services, MAPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing Oak Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Waitlist for new clients
Kandi Crandell's clinical approach to therapy is creating space to envision a different future while consciously examining past traumas through the lens of understanding and compassion. She believes all clients have the strength within themselves to grow, change, and ultimately accomplish their goals to better enrich their lives. She believes therapy is a space where the client is the healer in the room, and she exists to help clients discover their own superpowers. Kandi creates a nonjudgemental space to allow the client to share their unique story while also focusing on daily habits that support change.
Kandi Crandell's clinical approach to therapy is creating space to envision a different future while consciously examining past traumas through the lens of understanding and compassion. She believes all clients have the strength within themselves to grow, change, and ultimately accomplish their goals to better enrich their lives. She believes therapy is a space where the client is the healer in the room, and she exists to help clients discover their own superpowers. Kandi creates a nonjudgemental space to allow the client to share their unique story while also focusing on daily habits that support change.
(520) 391-6490 View (520) 391-6490
Photo of Linda Bohnet, MA, LPC, NCC, DHSc, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Bohnet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, DHSc
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Welcome to my page! I am here to help you be successful on your journey to self-fulfillment. My goal is to help my clients develop skills to break down barriers that are holding them back in reaching their goals. I am culturally and religiously sensitive to my clients needs, including D/deaf culture. You will develop self-awareness to gain confidence and skills to overcome barriers. To be resolute means to be firm in purpose, belief or not give up a course of action. I will stand resolute in supporting you in your journey. I will not give up on you.
Welcome to my page! I am here to help you be successful on your journey to self-fulfillment. My goal is to help my clients develop skills to break down barriers that are holding them back in reaching their goals. I am culturally and religiously sensitive to my clients needs, including D/deaf culture. You will develop self-awareness to gain confidence and skills to overcome barriers. To be resolute means to be firm in purpose, belief or not give up a course of action. I will stand resolute in supporting you in your journey. I will not give up on you.
(480) 725-1417 View (480) 725-1417
Photo of Cecilia Imperial, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cecilia Imperial
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
My name is Cecilia and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I am dedicated to supporting and guiding women and teens in navigating stress, life transitions, grief, and trauma. I offer a safe, nurturing space for your healing journey. With a warm and empathetic approach, I aim to create a trusting therapeutic relationship where you can truly be seen and understood. Together, we will explore practical strategies to manage stress, navigate life transitions with resilience, and process grief.
My name is Cecilia and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I am dedicated to supporting and guiding women and teens in navigating stress, life transitions, grief, and trauma. I offer a safe, nurturing space for your healing journey. With a warm and empathetic approach, I aim to create a trusting therapeutic relationship where you can truly be seen and understood. Together, we will explore practical strategies to manage stress, navigate life transitions with resilience, and process grief.
(928) 770-8564 View (928) 770-8564
Photo of Isabella Vento, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Isabella Vento
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Not accepting new clients
IsaBella has experience working with teenagers (18+) and adults to address a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, life-transitions, and trauma-related issues. She employs an eclectic approach to therapy, meaning she utilizes a variety of skills and techniques that best suit the needs of each client. IsaBella wholeheartedly believes that the client is the expert on their own life and the master of their own destiny. Therefore, her primary focus is to collaboratively build a strong foundation of trust, acceptance, and mutual respect that honors the client’s story as well as their willingness to change.
IsaBella has experience working with teenagers (18+) and adults to address a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, life-transitions, and trauma-related issues. She employs an eclectic approach to therapy, meaning she utilizes a variety of skills and techniques that best suit the needs of each client. IsaBella wholeheartedly believes that the client is the expert on their own life and the master of their own destiny. Therefore, her primary focus is to collaboratively build a strong foundation of trust, acceptance, and mutual respect that honors the client’s story as well as their willingness to change.
(602) 780-3053 View (602) 780-3053
Photo of Lindsay Love - Therapyluv PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapyluv PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years of experience in mental health, working with children, adolescents and adults. I value the story because I believe that stories hold power. It is my job to help my clients find their unique story and the strengths that reside between the lines. Telling a story requires safety as stories sometimes hold the most vulnerable parts of ourselves. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore those vulnerabilities as they process past trauma as well as current stressors that lead to depression and anxiety.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years of experience in mental health, working with children, adolescents and adults. I value the story because I believe that stories hold power. It is my job to help my clients find their unique story and the strengths that reside between the lines. Telling a story requires safety as stories sometimes hold the most vulnerable parts of ourselves. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore those vulnerabilities as they process past trauma as well as current stressors that lead to depression and anxiety.
(520) 352-7924 View (520) 352-7924
Photo of Jacob Ulmer, LAC, Counselor
Jacob Ulmer
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
Immediate openings are available for both in-person and Telehealth sessions under the supervision of licensed professionals. I aim to help navigate the struggles and histories we experience and further help understand how they can impact our lives—socially, academically, and professionally. Building self-exploration, processing challenging emotions in a safe space, and finding unique answers can empower you to overcome your challenges and achieve a greater sense of well-being. I have worked to develop a solid experience base by working with clients across all age groups and demographics, but I specialize in adolescents.
Immediate openings are available for both in-person and Telehealth sessions under the supervision of licensed professionals. I aim to help navigate the struggles and histories we experience and further help understand how they can impact our lives—socially, academically, and professionally. Building self-exploration, processing challenging emotions in a safe space, and finding unique answers can empower you to overcome your challenges and achieve a greater sense of well-being. I have worked to develop a solid experience base by working with clients across all age groups and demographics, but I specialize in adolescents.
(480) 908-8707 View (480) 908-8707
Photo of Mary Lynne Mack, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Lynne Mack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
Not accepting new clients
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to visit. I am a licensed psychologist and trained in healing trauma through client centered resources. This includes healing experiences of medical trauma, physical/emotional abuse, addiction, or family disconnection. If you have struggled with these issues, or are merely wanting to heal from recent stressors or loss, I would be honored to serve you. Ultimately I strive to help you find resources for healing psychological wounds and build skills/resilience in moving forward.
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to visit. I am a licensed psychologist and trained in healing trauma through client centered resources. This includes healing experiences of medical trauma, physical/emotional abuse, addiction, or family disconnection. If you have struggled with these issues, or are merely wanting to heal from recent stressors or loss, I would be honored to serve you. Ultimately I strive to help you find resources for healing psychological wounds and build skills/resilience in moving forward.
(480) 737-6076 View (480) 737-6076
Photo of Liz Hatch, MAS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Hatch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
As a marriage and family therapist, my focus is relationships and attachment. For those healing from a relationship injury (affairs or other hurtful events), I follow a structured process to repair, understand, and re-envision the future. The stresses of life can create disconnection with your loved one(s). I help couples, families, and individuals learn their relationship patterns and practice communication skills. Some of this stress appears in conflicts about mental load/invisible labor in which I help couples anticipate and interrupt their negative cycles. Another focus of my work is sexual wellness and all that it encompasses.
As a marriage and family therapist, my focus is relationships and attachment. For those healing from a relationship injury (affairs or other hurtful events), I follow a structured process to repair, understand, and re-envision the future. The stresses of life can create disconnection with your loved one(s). I help couples, families, and individuals learn their relationship patterns and practice communication skills. Some of this stress appears in conflicts about mental load/invisible labor in which I help couples anticipate and interrupt their negative cycles. Another focus of my work is sexual wellness and all that it encompasses.
(520) 379-7320 View (520) 379-7320
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Tempe, AZ

900+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Tempe, AZ who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
74% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Tempe, AZ see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Tempe?

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.