Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Sharad Yadav, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Sharad Yadav
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266
Emotional and relational pain can’t be easily categorized with words like anxiety and depression. Each of us have our own stories and our pain is as unique as we are. Whether it is learning to carry the existing burden of a mental health diagnosis or exploring the sources of loneliness and worry, what helps more than labels is the ability to tell our stories in a way that is as hopeful as it is truthful. In over two decades of non-profit work I have learned to sit with people whose lives have been disrupted in the midst of their pain. As a clinician I hope to combine that empathetic human connection with evidence based practices.
Emotional and relational pain can’t be easily categorized with words like anxiety and depression. Each of us have our own stories and our pain is as unique as we are. Whether it is learning to carry the existing burden of a mental health diagnosis or exploring the sources of loneliness and worry, what helps more than labels is the ability to tell our stories in a way that is as hopeful as it is truthful. In over two decades of non-profit work I have learned to sit with people whose lives have been disrupted in the midst of their pain. As a clinician I hope to combine that empathetic human connection with evidence based practices.
(503) 974-0304 View (503) 974-0304
Photo of Laura Patiño, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Laura Patiño
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Difficult experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and stuck. At the same time, some of our biggest opportunities for growth and change can emerge from our darkest chapters. I provide a safe, open, and stable therapeutic environment where you're able to process and move through your concerns with the companionship of a neutral and experienced counselor. I love working with clients who march to the beat of their own drum and strive to create a life that feels meaningful, authentic, and secure. I'm passionate about working with those who want to discover a greater sense of empowerment, self-compassion, and connection.
Difficult experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and stuck. At the same time, some of our biggest opportunities for growth and change can emerge from our darkest chapters. I provide a safe, open, and stable therapeutic environment where you're able to process and move through your concerns with the companionship of a neutral and experienced counselor. I love working with clients who march to the beat of their own drum and strive to create a life that feels meaningful, authentic, and secure. I'm passionate about working with those who want to discover a greater sense of empowerment, self-compassion, and connection.
(503) 966-9241 View (503) 966-9241
Photo of Azin Ghoreyshi, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Azin Ghoreyshi
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97231  (Online Only)
accepting new clients! My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Are you self-aware, but needing some extra support around understanding your experience and making necessary changes in order to thrive? Are you navigating a challenging relationship, situation or transition? Do you need new tools for self-regulating? My primary objective as a therapist is to establish a nonjudgmental and nurturing environment where I can help you recognize and address the thought patterns and behaviors that may be impeding your progress towards realizing your highest potential.
accepting new clients! My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Are you self-aware, but needing some extra support around understanding your experience and making necessary changes in order to thrive? Are you navigating a challenging relationship, situation or transition? Do you need new tools for self-regulating? My primary objective as a therapist is to establish a nonjudgmental and nurturing environment where I can help you recognize and address the thought patterns and behaviors that may be impeding your progress towards realizing your highest potential.
(503) 743-7330 View (503) 743-7330
Photo of Dr. Darin Bergen, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Darin Bergen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
You've been suffering on your own for far too long, pushing away the pain until it feels like you have nothing left. You're exhausted. You feel alone but you put on a mask, smiling on the outside while you're in so much pain inside. Because you pull it together for the people around you, nobody realizes what is going on. You've lost interest in everything. You can't concentrate. Sometimes you hate yourself and wonder if you deserve to feel good ever again. You feel weak and you are so tired of this pain. It's time for a change.
You've been suffering on your own for far too long, pushing away the pain until it feels like you have nothing left. You're exhausted. You feel alone but you put on a mask, smiling on the outside while you're in so much pain inside. Because you pull it together for the people around you, nobody realizes what is going on. You've lost interest in everything. You can't concentrate. Sometimes you hate yourself and wonder if you deserve to feel good ever again. You feel weak and you are so tired of this pain. It's time for a change.
(503) 308-6146 View (503) 308-6146
Photo of Sheila McShane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Sheila McShane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
My intention is to provide a supportive and attuned therapeutic relationship that invites you to safely explore your experience in life with curiosity, kindness and acceptance. You might be aware of a specific issue you'd like to work on, or perhaps you are impacted by a more general perception of yourself as somehow flawed, inadequate, unworthy, unloved, or like you just don't belong. I focus on helping people in these areas as well as problems related to depression, anxiety, attachment/relationship issues, self-esteem, shame, LGBTQ+ issues. I believe in a holistic, client-centered approach to counseling.
My intention is to provide a supportive and attuned therapeutic relationship that invites you to safely explore your experience in life with curiosity, kindness and acceptance. You might be aware of a specific issue you'd like to work on, or perhaps you are impacted by a more general perception of yourself as somehow flawed, inadequate, unworthy, unloved, or like you just don't belong. I focus on helping people in these areas as well as problems related to depression, anxiety, attachment/relationship issues, self-esteem, shame, LGBTQ+ issues. I believe in a holistic, client-centered approach to counseling.
(971) 308-4603 View (971) 308-4603
Photo of Aid Station Performance Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Aid Station Performance Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
(503) 782-9339 View (503) 782-9339
Photo of Drew Smith, Art Therapist in Portland, OR
Drew Smith
Art Therapist, LPC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Are you looking for new ways to gain perspective and examine your life, access the healthiest version of yourself, and get in touch with your sources of inspiration and meaning? If you're struggling to connect with your health, happiness, creativity and motivation, you don't have to go it alone. Life may feel overwhelming, chaotic, and difficult to navigate, but it doesn't have to be this way. Together, we can identify and address areas for change and growth while celebrating and nourishing your strengths, so that you feel clear, calm, and empowered.
Are you looking for new ways to gain perspective and examine your life, access the healthiest version of yourself, and get in touch with your sources of inspiration and meaning? If you're struggling to connect with your health, happiness, creativity and motivation, you don't have to go it alone. Life may feel overwhelming, chaotic, and difficult to navigate, but it doesn't have to be this way. Together, we can identify and address areas for change and growth while celebrating and nourishing your strengths, so that you feel clear, calm, and empowered.
(971) 293-2742 View (971) 293-2742
Photo of Montana Schroll, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Montana Schroll
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I’m a compassionate believer in the power of individual stories. As a professional counselor intern based in Oregon, I provide a non-judgmental space where individuals can openly share their experiences and work collaboratively towards shaping their present circumstances and future aspirations.
I’m a compassionate believer in the power of individual stories. As a professional counselor intern based in Oregon, I provide a non-judgmental space where individuals can openly share their experiences and work collaboratively towards shaping their present circumstances and future aspirations.
(503) 882-0447 View (503) 882-0447
Photo of Magda Permut, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Magda Permut
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
(503) 616-2040 View (503) 616-2040
Photo of Family Heart Counseling - Leslie Yeargers, M.A,, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Family Heart Counseling - Leslie Yeargers, M.A,
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I specialize in working with couples from all walks of life, as well as families in which one member is exploring their gender identity or actively transitioning. I understand that gender exploration and transition can create unique challenges within families; it can bring out family dynamics that are painful and difficult to navigate without help. I am here to support you with that. Regarding couples, it's not unusual to experience challenges in your relationship as you face the challenges of daily living. I am here to help you improve communication, increase understanding, and find your way back to each other.
I specialize in working with couples from all walks of life, as well as families in which one member is exploring their gender identity or actively transitioning. I understand that gender exploration and transition can create unique challenges within families; it can bring out family dynamics that are painful and difficult to navigate without help. I am here to support you with that. Regarding couples, it's not unusual to experience challenges in your relationship as you face the challenges of daily living. I am here to help you improve communication, increase understanding, and find your way back to each other.
(971) 351-1608 View (971) 351-1608
Photo of Robert L Gill, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Robert L Gill
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I have a passion for providing couples therapy, but work with both individuals and couples. With my ideal clients, we will work in collaboration to help build confidence in your abilities, set boundaries and develop your self-identified goals. Overall my approach will assist you in being more comfortable with the choices you make on your life's journey. Healing is important, and I want to support you in gaining that within your own life.
I have a passion for providing couples therapy, but work with both individuals and couples. With my ideal clients, we will work in collaboration to help build confidence in your abilities, set boundaries and develop your self-identified goals. Overall my approach will assist you in being more comfortable with the choices you make on your life's journey. Healing is important, and I want to support you in gaining that within your own life.
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Photo of Madeleine Moreland, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Madeleine Moreland
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Greetings! It would be an honor to join you on this journey of discovery, transformation, and healing. I am a tender-hearted, queer, white, able-bodied, person who was born and raised in Oregon. I am primarily trained and practiced in Harm Reduction Psychotherapy—a perspective where I am devoted to meeting you exactly where you are at and keeping compassion central to our work together. My lens prioritizes non-pathologizing trauma-informed anti-oppressive practice with attunement to systemic oppressions and violences that impact the individual within a complicated ecosystem.
Greetings! It would be an honor to join you on this journey of discovery, transformation, and healing. I am a tender-hearted, queer, white, able-bodied, person who was born and raised in Oregon. I am primarily trained and practiced in Harm Reduction Psychotherapy—a perspective where I am devoted to meeting you exactly where you are at and keeping compassion central to our work together. My lens prioritizes non-pathologizing trauma-informed anti-oppressive practice with attunement to systemic oppressions and violences that impact the individual within a complicated ecosystem.
(971) 278-9427 View (971) 278-9427
Photo of Viviana Durflinger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Viviana Durflinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Greetings, and thank you for the opportunity to share a bit about myself. As a licensed professional counselor in Oregon and a licensed mental health counselor in Washington, I approach psychotherapy as a transformative journey of self-discovery. I am particularly drawn to clients who are navigating life's intricate challenges, seeking support in understanding and overcoming feelings of being stuck, empty, or overwhelmed. My focus is on assisting individuals in uncovering creative solutions and fostering resilience as they navigate their unique paths.
Greetings, and thank you for the opportunity to share a bit about myself. As a licensed professional counselor in Oregon and a licensed mental health counselor in Washington, I approach psychotherapy as a transformative journey of self-discovery. I am particularly drawn to clients who are navigating life's intricate challenges, seeking support in understanding and overcoming feelings of being stuck, empty, or overwhelmed. My focus is on assisting individuals in uncovering creative solutions and fostering resilience as they navigate their unique paths.
(541) 256-2805 View (541) 256-2805
Photo of Crystina Brazie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Crystina Brazie, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
My goal as a therapist and Clinical Supervisor is to increase your zest and vitality for life, to foster your ability to take action (empowerment), as well as to support you in having clarity (a clearer picture of yourself and others). Each of these goals, I believe, lead to an increased sense of self worth. In my time as a therapist, I have found that growth occurs both individually as well as in connection with others and that growth fostering relationships (of all kinds) that are created through mutual empathy and mutual empowerment are a key aspect of all of our lives.
My goal as a therapist and Clinical Supervisor is to increase your zest and vitality for life, to foster your ability to take action (empowerment), as well as to support you in having clarity (a clearer picture of yourself and others). Each of these goals, I believe, lead to an increased sense of self worth. In my time as a therapist, I have found that growth occurs both individually as well as in connection with others and that growth fostering relationships (of all kinds) that are created through mutual empathy and mutual empowerment are a key aspect of all of our lives.
(541) 488-8176 View (541) 488-8176
Photo of Zainab Lavender Abdullah, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Zainab Lavender Abdullah
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Through a non-judgmental and empathetically based therapeutic relationship, I work to provide guidance in the process of increasing self-awareness, practicing self-acceptance, and ultimately having the client self-reflect in a way that brings confidence in their continuing life choices and experiences.
Through a non-judgmental and empathetically based therapeutic relationship, I work to provide guidance in the process of increasing self-awareness, practicing self-acceptance, and ultimately having the client self-reflect in a way that brings confidence in their continuing life choices and experiences.
(971) 205-6185 View (971) 205-6185
Photo of April Benney, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
April Benney
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege of supporting individuals through a wide spectrum of mental health concerns. With specialized expertise in substance use counseling, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, and adjustment disorders, I have worked with clients navigating various challenges in their lives.
I have had the privilege of supporting individuals through a wide spectrum of mental health concerns. With specialized expertise in substance use counseling, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, and adjustment disorders, I have worked with clients navigating various challenges in their lives.
(503) 994-1467 View (503) 994-1467
Photo of Kara Busse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kara Busse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
(971) 216-5904 View (971) 216-5904
Photo of Maria Lytle, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Maria Lytle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I strongly value my clients’ unique identities and seek to nurture your expression of sexuality, culture, and spirituality. I strive to provide deeply present, imaginative, compassionate and holistic care. My therapeutic interests include, but are not limited to, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual shame and dissatisfaction, racial/ethnic identity, perfectionism, chronic illness and disability, trauma and PTSD. I have special interest and experience in working with Latino clients.
I strongly value my clients’ unique identities and seek to nurture your expression of sexuality, culture, and spirituality. I strive to provide deeply present, imaginative, compassionate and holistic care. My therapeutic interests include, but are not limited to, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual shame and dissatisfaction, racial/ethnic identity, perfectionism, chronic illness and disability, trauma and PTSD. I have special interest and experience in working with Latino clients.
(971) 273-1685 View (971) 273-1685
Photo of Atma Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Atma Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I'm William Venturelli and I run Atma Counseling. Do you feel like you can't truly be yourself? Do you feel like something is holding you back? I can help you gain a better understanding of the "why's" in your life. Have you ever asked yourself "why do I keep doing that?" "why am I like this?" or "why do I feel this way?" We can explore these themes and more in a way that honors your uniqueness and without any judgment. Your counseling experience here will not be rigid or preconceived, instead, it will be a process of discovery where you will begin to live with more choice, courage and freedom. It's time to rediscover yourself.
I'm William Venturelli and I run Atma Counseling. Do you feel like you can't truly be yourself? Do you feel like something is holding you back? I can help you gain a better understanding of the "why's" in your life. Have you ever asked yourself "why do I keep doing that?" "why am I like this?" or "why do I feel this way?" We can explore these themes and more in a way that honors your uniqueness and without any judgment. Your counseling experience here will not be rigid or preconceived, instead, it will be a process of discovery where you will begin to live with more choice, courage and freedom. It's time to rediscover yourself.
(971) 803-5828 View (971) 803-5828
Photo of Blake Locher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Blake Locher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
As we navigate transitions and answer our inner call for change, we often need additional support. I am an interpersonal-focused therapist that works with you to create an empowering space in which you are free to be yourself, discover blind spots that may be getting in your way, and reclaim ownership of your life and what you want to do with it. My particular areas of work include shame, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life transitions, and adjusting to the effects of disabilities, as well as facilitating self-exploration and authentic identity development.
As we navigate transitions and answer our inner call for change, we often need additional support. I am an interpersonal-focused therapist that works with you to create an empowering space in which you are free to be yourself, discover blind spots that may be getting in your way, and reclaim ownership of your life and what you want to do with it. My particular areas of work include shame, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life transitions, and adjusting to the effects of disabilities, as well as facilitating self-exploration and authentic identity development.
(971) 279-7484 View (971) 279-7484

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.