Therapists in San Jose, CA

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Photo of Trisha Leilani Graves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , PPSC
Trisha Leilani Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95148
I offer support to teens who feel stuck and need to openly talk to someone who is nonjudgmental. Teen years can be difficult and I want to offer coping skills and new ideas on how to cope and manage the challenges you may face. I am currently only offering teletherapy (online).
I offer support to teens who feel stuck and need to openly talk to someone who is nonjudgmental. Teen years can be difficult and I want to offer coping skills and new ideas on how to cope and manage the challenges you may face. I am currently only offering teletherapy (online).
(408) 355-9236 View (408) 355-9236
Photo of Jackie (Meng) Chang - Jackie Chang, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jackie Chang, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Is your child having difficulties in school? Are you having relational problems? Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself or a loved one, I strive to ensure my patients feel supported as we collaboratively work towards your better quality of life. As a licensed marriage & family therapist, I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution based approaches to help address your needs.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Is your child having difficulties in school? Are you having relational problems? Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself or a loved one, I strive to ensure my patients feel supported as we collaboratively work towards your better quality of life. As a licensed marriage & family therapist, I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution based approaches to help address your needs.
(408) 767-6891 View (408) 767-6891
Photo of Sana Sarfaraz, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sana Sarfaraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.
(408) 351-4053 View (408) 351-4053
Photo of Carmen Roman - Carmen Roman, PhD (English/Spanish), Psychologist, PhD
Carmen Roman, PhD (English/Spanish)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you want to ease your ANXIETY, Depression, or Trauma? Or maybe improve your creativity, your relationship with your partner, or become more productive? We can work on it. I am a SPANISH/English psychologist with 30+ years of experience in providing psychotherapy in Mexico since 1992. 13 years working in California. I offer you a combination of both cultures and both worlds of psychology. I work for you to feel safe to explore your deepest feelings and tap into your inner wisdom. Tell me about your anxiety, depression, fear, severe trauma, or low self-esteem, I can help.
Do you want to ease your ANXIETY, Depression, or Trauma? Or maybe improve your creativity, your relationship with your partner, or become more productive? We can work on it. I am a SPANISH/English psychologist with 30+ years of experience in providing psychotherapy in Mexico since 1992. 13 years working in California. I offer you a combination of both cultures and both worlds of psychology. I work for you to feel safe to explore your deepest feelings and tap into your inner wisdom. Tell me about your anxiety, depression, fear, severe trauma, or low self-esteem, I can help.
(650) 826-3983 View (650) 826-3983
Photo of Leona Esmaeily, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Leona Esmaeily
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel anxious due to your work, family issues, low self-esteem, and relationship issues? I can especially help those with anxiety/panic attacks. I make it a priority to help clients with buried feelings who have trouble speaking on their emotions. Communicating emotionally is extremely important to promote well-rounded and mature adults. I will help you enhance your self-awareness around unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and build skills necessary to handle life more effectively and develop actionable steps to reach your goals.
Do you feel anxious due to your work, family issues, low self-esteem, and relationship issues? I can especially help those with anxiety/panic attacks. I make it a priority to help clients with buried feelings who have trouble speaking on their emotions. Communicating emotionally is extremely important to promote well-rounded and mature adults. I will help you enhance your self-awareness around unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and build skills necessary to handle life more effectively and develop actionable steps to reach your goals.
(213) 267-6102 View (213) 267-6102
Photo of Gerard Anthony Chambers, Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Gerard Anthony Chambers
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
**Dr. Chambers is not a therapist and he does not do therapy or any form of treatment. My Philosophy is that you need to diagnose the problem accurately before you can fix the problem! Neuropsychological Evaluations, ADHD Testing, Learning Disability Evaluations, Mental Health Diagnostic Testing, Expert Testimony, Civil Litigation, Court Related Testing, 504 Plans, IEP's, IDEA Accommodations, MCAT Accommodations, Workplace Accommodations, Capacity Evaluations, Wills & Trusts, and much more! Dr. Chambers is a neuropsychologist that offers a wide range of testing and evaluative services for forensic [legal matters] and non-forensic matters. We do not accept insurance.
**Dr. Chambers is not a therapist and he does not do therapy or any form of treatment. My Philosophy is that you need to diagnose the problem accurately before you can fix the problem! Neuropsychological Evaluations, ADHD Testing, Learning Disability Evaluations, Mental Health Diagnostic Testing, Expert Testimony, Civil Litigation, Court Related Testing, 504 Plans, IEP's, IDEA Accommodations, MCAT Accommodations, Workplace Accommodations, Capacity Evaluations, Wills & Trusts, and much more! Dr. Chambers is a neuropsychologist that offers a wide range of testing and evaluative services for forensic [legal matters] and non-forensic matters. We do not accept insurance.
(669) 201-8752 View (669) 201-8752
Photo of Jacqueline Morita, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jacqueline Morita
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
Do you struggle with feeling anxious and are affected by reminders from the past that impact your self-esteem, day-to-day life, and relationships? Do you feel lost trying to navigate your relationships and wonder why it's difficult for you to get close to people or why certain people upset you? Do you struggle to have hope that you’ll one day feel less alone and feel more self-compassion even on your difficult days? You're not alone, struggling with the effects of trauma and anxiety is very common. If this has resonated with you, this may be your sign to get the support that you deserve in feeling hopeful in your journey of healing.
Do you struggle with feeling anxious and are affected by reminders from the past that impact your self-esteem, day-to-day life, and relationships? Do you feel lost trying to navigate your relationships and wonder why it's difficult for you to get close to people or why certain people upset you? Do you struggle to have hope that you’ll one day feel less alone and feel more self-compassion even on your difficult days? You're not alone, struggling with the effects of trauma and anxiety is very common. If this has resonated with you, this may be your sign to get the support that you deserve in feeling hopeful in your journey of healing.
(408) 404-5368 View (408) 404-5368
Photo of Valentina Mornard, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Valentina Mornard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
It takes courage to reach out for support. Often people reach out when their usual strategies to manage their life fail, and they feel stuck. Are you feeling like you can't think or talk your way out of your unhappiness? The role of the therapist is as a facilitator or guide to help you identify the patterns that are no longer working for you, and develop strategies to heal and change. I will work with you to develop a plan in therapy that meets your individual needs and goals. You can free up energy for the people and pursuits in life that matter. I want to help you get there.
It takes courage to reach out for support. Often people reach out when their usual strategies to manage their life fail, and they feel stuck. Are you feeling like you can't think or talk your way out of your unhappiness? The role of the therapist is as a facilitator or guide to help you identify the patterns that are no longer working for you, and develop strategies to heal and change. I will work with you to develop a plan in therapy that meets your individual needs and goals. You can free up energy for the people and pursuits in life that matter. I want to help you get there.
(510) 345-0447 View (510) 345-0447
Photo of Tania Choi - Tania Choi Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Tania Choi Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I'm not in the business of instigating change. I am in the delicate and complex work of empowering it. Because I believe you have the wisdom to bring about change. Because change is your work and your choice; my role is to set the stage, empty it, illuminate what stands in the way and explore with you the possibilities for change. Ultimately you decide.The fact that you're here already ensures it. My job is to notice your process, reflect and honor it. In this space, I have seen amazing change happen.
I'm not in the business of instigating change. I am in the delicate and complex work of empowering it. Because I believe you have the wisdom to bring about change. Because change is your work and your choice; my role is to set the stage, empty it, illuminate what stands in the way and explore with you the possibilities for change. Ultimately you decide.The fact that you're here already ensures it. My job is to notice your process, reflect and honor it. In this space, I have seen amazing change happen.
(408) 212-0552 View (408) 212-0552
Photo of Constantine Kazos, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Constantine Kazos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95117
"I enjoy facilitating healing and growth for individuals, couples and families in order to find a path to thrive through difficult life transitions and stressful times."
"I enjoy facilitating healing and growth for individuals, couples and families in order to find a path to thrive through difficult life transitions and stressful times."
(650) 284-2064 View (650) 284-2064
Photo of Nydia M Medina, Psychologist, PhD
Nydia M Medina
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95120
As a therapist with over 25 years of experience, my style is an interactive one that focuses on providing support, understanding, and constructive feedback to my clients. My goal is to help my clients deal with the challenges and obstacles they encounter in their lives in a more positive and effective manner. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual. I help my clients explore and understand their issues, build on their strengths, and learn new, more effective coping skills. I really enjoy working with individuals and helping them achieve their goals. I am also fully bilingual/bicultural in Spanish.
As a therapist with over 25 years of experience, my style is an interactive one that focuses on providing support, understanding, and constructive feedback to my clients. My goal is to help my clients deal with the challenges and obstacles they encounter in their lives in a more positive and effective manner. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual. I help my clients explore and understand their issues, build on their strengths, and learn new, more effective coping skills. I really enjoy working with individuals and helping them achieve their goals. I am also fully bilingual/bicultural in Spanish.
(408) 703-5711 View (408) 703-5711
Photo of Sandra Macias, Psychologist, Sandra Macias, PhD
Sandra Macias
Psychologist, Sandra Macias, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
I know that we are living in unique and challenging times. It can sometimes be difficult to navigate the life stressors that come our way, especially when those stressors lead to disruptions in our ability to cope and function the way we wish to. I understand the importance we place on developing and maintaining strong and supportive interpersonal relationships with our families, our children, our partners, and our communities. I also am a strong believer in the need to have a therapist who can listen, support, and offer you real tools to manage stressors and mental health issues.
I know that we are living in unique and challenging times. It can sometimes be difficult to navigate the life stressors that come our way, especially when those stressors lead to disruptions in our ability to cope and function the way we wish to. I understand the importance we place on developing and maintaining strong and supportive interpersonal relationships with our families, our children, our partners, and our communities. I also am a strong believer in the need to have a therapist who can listen, support, and offer you real tools to manage stressors and mental health issues.
(408) 662-1558 View (408) 662-1558
Photo of Deniss Pleiner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Deniss Pleiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
I support women who struggle with anxiety, speaking up for themselves, and often burn out taking care of others. I help you build self-confidence, self-accountability, and self-compassion. My work is trauma-informed & solution-oriented: teaching you the right tools to build meaningful & lasting change.
I support women who struggle with anxiety, speaking up for themselves, and often burn out taking care of others. I help you build self-confidence, self-accountability, and self-compassion. My work is trauma-informed & solution-oriented: teaching you the right tools to build meaningful & lasting change.
(650) 663-4692 View (650) 663-4692
Photo of Lauren Gogarty, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Lauren Gogarty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
It takes courage to look for a therapist, so I try to make it as painless as possible! I help people who might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed or who are just stuck in patterns, jobs or relationships that are making them unhappy. If you feel like you are struggling in some way, whether it is related to your mood, relationships, or just with where you are in life right now, contact me, we can work together to sort things out. Send a quick email through here, then I will follow up with a call. If we are a good fit then we get started.
It takes courage to look for a therapist, so I try to make it as painless as possible! I help people who might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed or who are just stuck in patterns, jobs or relationships that are making them unhappy. If you feel like you are struggling in some way, whether it is related to your mood, relationships, or just with where you are in life right now, contact me, we can work together to sort things out. Send a quick email through here, then I will follow up with a call. If we are a good fit then we get started.
(831) 508-3617 View (831) 508-3617
Photo of Renee Cordobes, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS-SC
Renee Cordobes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS-SC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
I provide a safe place to discuss those issues that may keep you stuck and unable to enjoy your life in the present moment. I am genuine and compassionate. I will listen and support you where you are, helping you to find the way that is right for you. I am not bound by one theory or set of tools. I focus on your strengths, taking the time to learn about your innate characteristics, designing creative yet practical ways to help you realize your dreams and live a full life.
I provide a safe place to discuss those issues that may keep you stuck and unable to enjoy your life in the present moment. I am genuine and compassionate. I will listen and support you where you are, helping you to find the way that is right for you. I am not bound by one theory or set of tools. I focus on your strengths, taking the time to learn about your innate characteristics, designing creative yet practical ways to help you realize your dreams and live a full life.
(408) 850-4308 View (408) 850-4308
Photo of Andrew Steven Mireles, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Andrew Steven Mireles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112
Hello, my name is Andrew and my role as a therapist is to educate, explore, reflect, and support you in your time of need. I’m passionate about supporting my clients through the challenges they face as we journey together for healing, growth, and improved mood in your daily life. Some of my approaches to therapy are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Attachment Based, and Person Centered. I offer teletherapy so we can work on your progress from the comfort of your home. Seeking therapy is the first brave step towards an improved mental health.
Hello, my name is Andrew and my role as a therapist is to educate, explore, reflect, and support you in your time of need. I’m passionate about supporting my clients through the challenges they face as we journey together for healing, growth, and improved mood in your daily life. Some of my approaches to therapy are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Attachment Based, and Person Centered. I offer teletherapy so we can work on your progress from the comfort of your home. Seeking therapy is the first brave step towards an improved mental health.
(408) 676-4035 View (408) 676-4035
Photo of Yvette Duarte - Awake DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LBC, ATR-BC
Awake DBT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LBC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
Awake DBT's mission is to help our community members both develop the necessary coping skills to manage the ups and downs of everyday life, and experience a more purposeful and joyful life. At Awake DBT, we strive to create a thriving community where our commitment to quality DBT clinical services creates a safe and collaborative haven for abundant growth. We are dedicated to fostering a close-knit atmosphere, where our team support individuals seek and live a “life worth living” for every individual and family. Our vision is to be a beacon of excellence, where we collaborate with individuals on recognize barriers.
Awake DBT's mission is to help our community members both develop the necessary coping skills to manage the ups and downs of everyday life, and experience a more purposeful and joyful life. At Awake DBT, we strive to create a thriving community where our commitment to quality DBT clinical services creates a safe and collaborative haven for abundant growth. We are dedicated to fostering a close-knit atmosphere, where our team support individuals seek and live a “life worth living” for every individual and family. Our vision is to be a beacon of excellence, where we collaborate with individuals on recognize barriers.
(669) 369-4852 View (669) 369-4852
Photo of Amy Christensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Amy Christensen and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Redlands, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and grief, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Focused Therapy to work with my clients towards their goals. I have a bit of an eclectic therapeutic approach - I like to tailor the sessions to what works best for you. I tend to use Solutions Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as good jumping off points.
My name is Amy Christensen and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Redlands, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and grief, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Focused Therapy to work with my clients towards their goals. I have a bit of an eclectic therapeutic approach - I like to tailor the sessions to what works best for you. I tend to use Solutions Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as good jumping off points.
(669) 322-7843 View (669) 322-7843
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology--San Jose location, Psychologist, PsyD
Silver Lake Psychology--San Jose location
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(408) 677-2390 View (408) 677-2390
Photo of Grace Kim- Hur, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Grace Kim- Hur
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a licensed psychotherapist with a background specializing in severe behavioral issues and relationship issues. I work with a variety of approaches from CBT, EFT to Psychodynamic approach depending on my patient's needs and what I feel is most effective. In addition I create individual treatment plans to match my patient's goals. Together we can create a safe space and begin your journey in understanding your current issues or concerns. Explore where they may have stemmed from, and how they are currently effecting your life. I believe anyone's goal in therapy would be to heal and ignite awareness to live a more fulfilling life.
I'm a licensed psychotherapist with a background specializing in severe behavioral issues and relationship issues. I work with a variety of approaches from CBT, EFT to Psychodynamic approach depending on my patient's needs and what I feel is most effective. In addition I create individual treatment plans to match my patient's goals. Together we can create a safe space and begin your journey in understanding your current issues or concerns. Explore where they may have stemmed from, and how they are currently effecting your life. I believe anyone's goal in therapy would be to heal and ignite awareness to live a more fulfilling life.
(408) 351-7563 View (408) 351-7563
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Jose, CA

2,000+

Average cost per session

$185

Therapists in San Jose, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
68% Stress
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Jose, CA see their clients

60% Online Only
40% 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 Jose?

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.