Therapists in San Diego, CA

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Photo of Valerie Jennison, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Valerie Jennison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck in relationships or struggling with your relationship with substances, food, etc.? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I help individuals build confidence, set healthy boundaries, and truly find themselves—whether in dating, healing from heartbreak, or breaking free from unhealthy patterns and/or ways of coping. Together, we’ll create a path toward clarity, self-worth, and deeper connections. If this resonates with you, I’d be happy to work with you.
Are you feeling stuck in relationships or struggling with your relationship with substances, food, etc.? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I help individuals build confidence, set healthy boundaries, and truly find themselves—whether in dating, healing from heartbreak, or breaking free from unhealthy patterns and/or ways of coping. Together, we’ll create a path toward clarity, self-worth, and deeper connections. If this resonates with you, I’d be happy to work with you.
(858) 879-3029 View (858) 879-3029
Photo of Kira Sweetlove - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Kira Sweetlove - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Tracy Carson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Tracy Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults and families. Individuals looking for healing or insight into various stressors in their lives. These are clients that are committed to the process of a therapeutic journey and engaged in the work of healing. When desired by the client I especially enjoy a faith based integrative approach to the healing process.
I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults and families. Individuals looking for healing or insight into various stressors in their lives. These are clients that are committed to the process of a therapeutic journey and engaged in the work of healing. When desired by the client I especially enjoy a faith based integrative approach to the healing process.
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Photo of Jessica Ojeda, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Ojeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has provided psychotherapy, family therapy, and group services in English and Spanish for over nine years. I work with adults and families specializing in mental health and/or co-occurring disorders including depression, anxiety, trauma and chemical dependency. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and brief therapy to help you decrease symptoms while developing more meaningful life experiences.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has provided psychotherapy, family therapy, and group services in English and Spanish for over nine years. I work with adults and families specializing in mental health and/or co-occurring disorders including depression, anxiety, trauma and chemical dependency. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and brief therapy to help you decrease symptoms while developing more meaningful life experiences.
(510) 401-3608 View (510) 401-3608
Photo of Dr. Amy Greaves, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Amy Greaves
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I'm a licensed psychologist, with over 20 years of experience specializing in relationship problems, sex addictions, obsessive thinking, anxiety, and depression. I have advanced training to help couples overcome infidelity, lost connection, frequent arguments, and sexual problems. I use mindfulness and experiential approaches that rewire the brain's ability to cope with impulses, anxiety, and make sense of grief. I help people transcend the difficulties preventing them from living peaceful, joy-filled life. My work with clients is highly collaborative and tuning into your strengths will be of central importance.
I'm a licensed psychologist, with over 20 years of experience specializing in relationship problems, sex addictions, obsessive thinking, anxiety, and depression. I have advanced training to help couples overcome infidelity, lost connection, frequent arguments, and sexual problems. I use mindfulness and experiential approaches that rewire the brain's ability to cope with impulses, anxiety, and make sense of grief. I help people transcend the difficulties preventing them from living peaceful, joy-filled life. My work with clients is highly collaborative and tuning into your strengths will be of central importance.
(858) 223-1827 View (858) 223-1827
Photo of Molly Fassler, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Molly Fassler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I provide individual and couple therapy in a caring and accepting environment. Therapy is an opportunity for personal growth and the exploration of obstacles in your life. Learn how to address your concerns and create a more fulfilling existence. My services are designed to address anxiety, depression, stress management, body image concerns, increase overall functioning and foster personal growth.
I provide individual and couple therapy in a caring and accepting environment. Therapy is an opportunity for personal growth and the exploration of obstacles in your life. Learn how to address your concerns and create a more fulfilling existence. My services are designed to address anxiety, depression, stress management, body image concerns, increase overall functioning and foster personal growth.
(619) 377-8181 View (619) 377-8181
Photo of Adriana Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Adriana Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals 12 yrs. and older and specialize in anxiety and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness help relieve physical and emotional symptoms. I have found that my style and approach is effective with individuals of all ages experiencing stress from a life event or the everyday pressures.
Hi there, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals 12 yrs. and older and specialize in anxiety and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness help relieve physical and emotional symptoms. I have found that my style and approach is effective with individuals of all ages experiencing stress from a life event or the everyday pressures.
(858) 879-3007 View (858) 879-3007
Photo of Kate Bennett, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kate Bennett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can present us with many difficult challenges and transitions. I enjoy assisting my clients in improving their relationships, adjusting to life's changes and transitions, and improving stress management abilities. I provide a safe environment in which people can explore options and work towards self-empowerment, growth and resolution of their issues. I use a combination of solution-focused approaches to help people attain their personal goals and resolve trauma.
Life can present us with many difficult challenges and transitions. I enjoy assisting my clients in improving their relationships, adjusting to life's changes and transitions, and improving stress management abilities. I provide a safe environment in which people can explore options and work towards self-empowerment, growth and resolution of their issues. I use a combination of solution-focused approaches to help people attain their personal goals and resolve trauma.
(619) 823-0204 View (619) 823-0204
Photo of Nichole Cassidy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Nichole Cassidy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92119
My name is Nichole and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting children, families, couples, and adult individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. I integrate EMDR, IFS, DBT, and ACT into my practice, tailoring my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. I also love incorporating art and games in the therapy room, creating a dynamic and engaging space for exploration and self-expression. With experience in treating co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other mood disorders, I strive to provide a compassionate, evidence-based, and creative approach to therapy.
My name is Nichole and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting children, families, couples, and adult individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. I integrate EMDR, IFS, DBT, and ACT into my practice, tailoring my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. I also love incorporating art and games in the therapy room, creating a dynamic and engaging space for exploration and self-expression. With experience in treating co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other mood disorders, I strive to provide a compassionate, evidence-based, and creative approach to therapy.
(619) 396-2628 View (619) 396-2628
Photo of Maria Solis-Espinoza, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Maria Solis-Espinoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a bilingual licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and build stronger, more resilient relationships. With a warm and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in empowering individuals to achieve independence, confidence, and success in their daily lives. Through my education and work experience, I personalize and create interventions with the collaboration of the client.
I am a bilingual licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and build stronger, more resilient relationships. With a warm and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in empowering individuals to achieve independence, confidence, and success in their daily lives. Through my education and work experience, I personalize and create interventions with the collaboration of the client.
(415) 360-7902 View (415) 360-7902
Photo of Dr. Jesse L Olague, Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Dr. Jesse L Olague
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Are you a parent of a child that has difficulty with emotional outbursts? Do these outbursts negatively impact you or your family? Or does your child or you have trouble managing their emotions such as worry or sadness? These are often referral questions I receive on a daily basis. Fortunately, these are all manageable and with the right guidance and treatment we can find the right path to help you or your family. My goals are to first and foremost understand your situation and needs. In doing so I hope to build trust. Once achieved I work to help you and/or your child uncover what needs have been missed.
Are you a parent of a child that has difficulty with emotional outbursts? Do these outbursts negatively impact you or your family? Or does your child or you have trouble managing their emotions such as worry or sadness? These are often referral questions I receive on a daily basis. Fortunately, these are all manageable and with the right guidance and treatment we can find the right path to help you or your family. My goals are to first and foremost understand your situation and needs. In doing so I hope to build trust. Once achieved I work to help you and/or your child uncover what needs have been missed.
(858) 358-7408 View (858) 358-7408
Photo of Greg Piken, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CSAT, CMAT
Greg Piken
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Not accepting new clients
If you could hit the “pause button” on the voice of fear, shame, anger, or addiction, what would you hear instead? Is it a desire to be loved and accepted for who you really are? Is it hope for a more fulfilling life? Is it faith to believe that you can make different decisions going forward? You’d be amazed how many people like you and me, have bravely faced their biggest questions in therapy, and found meaningful answers. Let’s see if that can be your story too!
If you could hit the “pause button” on the voice of fear, shame, anger, or addiction, what would you hear instead? Is it a desire to be loved and accepted for who you really are? Is it hope for a more fulfilling life? Is it faith to believe that you can make different decisions going forward? You’d be amazed how many people like you and me, have bravely faced their biggest questions in therapy, and found meaningful answers. Let’s see if that can be your story too!
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Photo of Dave Fung, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MA
Dave Fung
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
True story: I’ve gotten my truck stuck in the same sandy desert spot on TWO different occasions - both times, thinking I knew what to do. Nope. Both times I needed help. Like with my truck, the help I've received in my life has helped me understand who I am and now it inspires me to support others in their journey. I have the privilege of supporting numerous couples, teens, and individuals, and I take an approach that is warm, constructive, and collaborative. Our time is spent understanding who you are, what is getting you stuck, and exploring what it may take to get you where you want to be.
True story: I’ve gotten my truck stuck in the same sandy desert spot on TWO different occasions - both times, thinking I knew what to do. Nope. Both times I needed help. Like with my truck, the help I've received in my life has helped me understand who I am and now it inspires me to support others in their journey. I have the privilege of supporting numerous couples, teens, and individuals, and I take an approach that is warm, constructive, and collaborative. Our time is spent understanding who you are, what is getting you stuck, and exploring what it may take to get you where you want to be.
(619) 404-0468 View (619) 404-0468
Photo of Karen Kerschmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Kerschmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Life can get hard. If you are struggling with anxiety or panic, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you get back on track. From the first session, you can expect to develop real, long-term solutions to feel better, be more productive, and find yourself again.
Life can get hard. If you are struggling with anxiety or panic, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you get back on track. From the first session, you can expect to develop real, long-term solutions to feel better, be more productive, and find yourself again.
(619) 566-4957 View (619) 566-4957
Photo of Christina Kim, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Christina Kim
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you've been feeling out of place - whether it is in this moment or all your life - you are not alone. Maybe you are a first-time parent (or fourth!) navigating how to juggle all your other identities with your new parent role. Maybe you are trying to work out some generational differences with your parents. Maybe you just want to be able to talk to your partner, sibling, in-laws, or metamour and feel seen, heard, and understood. If you are struggling to be on the same page with yourself or your loved ones, I am here to help you explore ways to create the kind of relationships you want in your life.
If you've been feeling out of place - whether it is in this moment or all your life - you are not alone. Maybe you are a first-time parent (or fourth!) navigating how to juggle all your other identities with your new parent role. Maybe you are trying to work out some generational differences with your parents. Maybe you just want to be able to talk to your partner, sibling, in-laws, or metamour and feel seen, heard, and understood. If you are struggling to be on the same page with yourself or your loved ones, I am here to help you explore ways to create the kind of relationships you want in your life.
(619) 826-4385 View (619) 826-4385
Photo of Marc Pescadera, LPC Intern, MS, APCC
Marc Pescadera
LPC Intern, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
You might need an unbiased 3rd party to process things. Maybe someone to understand what feelings you're going through? Or someone to hold up a mirror with a trauma-informed and compassionate lens. Whether it be depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, trauma, or difficult life transitions, we’ll collaborate together to help you be you. Sometimes we just need a soft place to land when we fall.
You might need an unbiased 3rd party to process things. Maybe someone to understand what feelings you're going through? Or someone to hold up a mirror with a trauma-informed and compassionate lens. Whether it be depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, trauma, or difficult life transitions, we’ll collaborate together to help you be you. Sometimes we just need a soft place to land when we fall.
(619) 648-1174 View (619) 648-1174
Photo of Heather Rosa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Heather Rosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in La Grange California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I primarily work with adults using solution-focused and Strengths therapy to help my clients make progress and feel better. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client. I most frequently use client’s strengths and solution focus in order to help my clients build upon the strengths we each have to move forward.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in La Grange California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I primarily work with adults using solution-focused and Strengths therapy to help my clients make progress and feel better. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client. I most frequently use client’s strengths and solution focus in order to help my clients build upon the strengths we each have to move forward.
(619) 658-5930 View (619) 658-5930
Photo of Dr. Joe Grady, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Dr. Joe Grady
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer a sliding fee scale based on income from $75 - $150. Are you feeling overwhelmed by relationship challenges, questioning your self-worth, or struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you find yourself stuck in negative patterns, unable to break free from the cycles that hold you back? These feelings can be isolating and difficult to navigate alone, but you don’t have to face them by yourself. I specialize in advanced therapeutic techniques that access and process deep emotions, often buried beneath the surface, that contribute to feeling trapped, burdened, or stuck.
I offer a sliding fee scale based on income from $75 - $150. Are you feeling overwhelmed by relationship challenges, questioning your self-worth, or struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you find yourself stuck in negative patterns, unable to break free from the cycles that hold you back? These feelings can be isolating and difficult to navigate alone, but you don’t have to face them by yourself. I specialize in advanced therapeutic techniques that access and process deep emotions, often buried beneath the surface, that contribute to feeling trapped, burdened, or stuck.
(619) 361-7698 View (619) 361-7698
Photo of Corinne Heinzelmann, Psychologist, PsyD
Corinne Heinzelmann
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Not accepting new clients
Life is stressful; and women experience this in unique ways. Trauma, loss, early childhood experiences, recurrent behaviors, career stress, and body and life-cycle changes can result in difficulties with a woman's self-esteem, relationships, mood, sexuality, spirituality, and health. Similarly, couples can develop patterns of relating from early experiences which result in conflict, loneliness and despair. Therapy provides deeper insight into our needs, choices, beliefs, behaviors, and emotions. Dr. heinzelmann focuses on offering the tools needed to move toward emotional and spiritual wholeness.
Life is stressful; and women experience this in unique ways. Trauma, loss, early childhood experiences, recurrent behaviors, career stress, and body and life-cycle changes can result in difficulties with a woman's self-esteem, relationships, mood, sexuality, spirituality, and health. Similarly, couples can develop patterns of relating from early experiences which result in conflict, loneliness and despair. Therapy provides deeper insight into our needs, choices, beliefs, behaviors, and emotions. Dr. heinzelmann focuses on offering the tools needed to move toward emotional and spiritual wholeness.
(760) 961-4037 View (760) 961-4037
Photo of Alma Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alma Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Alma Phillips is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years of experience in the mental health field. She received her masters in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach, with an emphasis in children, youth, and families and a B.A. in Psychology from University of California, San Diego. Alma works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her specialized certificate in Play Therapy has given her a wealth of experience and training in working with children's issues. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and also offers EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Alma Phillips is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years of experience in the mental health field. She received her masters in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach, with an emphasis in children, youth, and families and a B.A. in Psychology from University of California, San Diego. Alma works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her specialized certificate in Play Therapy has given her a wealth of experience and training in working with children's issues. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and also offers EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(858) 758-7534 View (858) 758-7534
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Diego, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$169

Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
70% Coping Skills
70% Self Esteem
65% Relationship Issues
64% Stress
61% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients

69% Online Only
31% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in San Diego?

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.