Therapists in Washington, DC

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Photo of David Pellegrini, Psychologist, PhD
David Pellegrini
Psychologist, PhD
Washington, DC 20007
I draw on 40+ years of experience in the practice of individual, group, and couples therapy. I work with a diversity of adult clients from varied circumstances and backgrounds. Nevertheless, they generally share a common aspiration to discover a more vital, passionate, and creative approach to meeting life's challenges. My intention is to establish a safe and authentic collaboration in pursuit of your aspirations and goals. I bring compassion, humor, insight and engagement to the therapeutic work. My approach integrates elements of the best, well-established therapeutic approaches, tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
I draw on 40+ years of experience in the practice of individual, group, and couples therapy. I work with a diversity of adult clients from varied circumstances and backgrounds. Nevertheless, they generally share a common aspiration to discover a more vital, passionate, and creative approach to meeting life's challenges. My intention is to establish a safe and authentic collaboration in pursuit of your aspirations and goals. I bring compassion, humor, insight and engagement to the therapeutic work. My approach integrates elements of the best, well-established therapeutic approaches, tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
(202) 559-4841 View (202) 559-4841
Photo of Anna D Savage, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Anna D Savage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Maybe you are unsure if you will ever be able to let go of the past or move forward from the people and events that have hurt you. You also may have realized that things from your past continue to affect you in the present, but are unsure how to address this. Healing from trauma can be a difficult journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. I believe you already have everything you need inside you to heal, and I will work with you to help you (re)discover that power. Working with me means that you will learn ways to tackle your triggers, break harmful patterns, and let go of what is holding you back.
Maybe you are unsure if you will ever be able to let go of the past or move forward from the people and events that have hurt you. You also may have realized that things from your past continue to affect you in the present, but are unsure how to address this. Healing from trauma can be a difficult journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. I believe you already have everything you need inside you to heal, and I will work with you to help you (re)discover that power. Working with me means that you will learn ways to tackle your triggers, break harmful patterns, and let go of what is holding you back.
(202) 968-1318 View (202) 968-1318
Photo of Nzinga Lawrence, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nzinga Lawrence
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Nzinga! I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in NJ, NV, and DC. I am also a Certified Counselor for Problem Gambling. My areas of focus include Addiction, Problem Gambling, Depression, Anxiety, and working with those we identify as Neurodivergent. A session with me will be welcoming and empowering, yet informative. I believe in educating my clients to be able to make informed decisions about their lives. I also utilize workbooks and other resources.
Hi there, I'm Nzinga! I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in NJ, NV, and DC. I am also a Certified Counselor for Problem Gambling. My areas of focus include Addiction, Problem Gambling, Depression, Anxiety, and working with those we identify as Neurodivergent. A session with me will be welcoming and empowering, yet informative. I believe in educating my clients to be able to make informed decisions about their lives. I also utilize workbooks and other resources.
(202) 883-8778 View (202) 883-8778
Photo of Jamie Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC
Jamie Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC
Washington, DC 20036
The reason some people experience anxiety and others don't is based on our window of tolerance: the threshold in which we're able to cope with uncomfortable situations and stimuli. - - - Making a mistake - A social gathering - Reading the news - You name it - - - For folks with a narrow window, anything can feel big & hard to manage. This is where spiraling thoughts come in, waking up in the middle of the night, questions of am I good enough, & the inability to make a decision. We CAN'T stop things from happening. What we CAN do, and what I love to do, is help people learn to increase their window.
The reason some people experience anxiety and others don't is based on our window of tolerance: the threshold in which we're able to cope with uncomfortable situations and stimuli. - - - Making a mistake - A social gathering - Reading the news - You name it - - - For folks with a narrow window, anything can feel big & hard to manage. This is where spiraling thoughts come in, waking up in the middle of the night, questions of am I good enough, & the inability to make a decision. We CAN'T stop things from happening. What we CAN do, and what I love to do, is help people learn to increase their window.
(202) 883-7776 View (202) 883-7776
Photo of Joy Annphillips-Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Annphillips-Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the mental health field for over 15 years providing an array of mental health services to clients. I currently provide therapeutic services for adults, couples, and families. I am also trained as a forensic interviewer and work with victims of Sexual Abuse. I also work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and personal crises. I have been trained in various psychotherapy models such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the mental health field for over 15 years providing an array of mental health services to clients. I currently provide therapeutic services for adults, couples, and families. I am also trained as a forensic interviewer and work with victims of Sexual Abuse. I also work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and personal crises. I have been trained in various psychotherapy models such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral
(855) 460-0366 View (855) 460-0366
Photo of Tiffany Burt, Counselor, LICSW
Tiffany Burt
Counselor, LICSW
Online Only
My name is Tiffany Burt and I am born and raised in Michigan. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker. My main therapeutic approach is Solution-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, and CBT. I believe you are the expert in your life and I believe in developing a plan with you as the driver in the therapeutic approach. My goal is to create a space, using evidence based approach, to make improvements in your life.
My name is Tiffany Burt and I am born and raised in Michigan. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker. My main therapeutic approach is Solution-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, and CBT. I believe you are the expert in your life and I believe in developing a plan with you as the driver in the therapeutic approach. My goal is to create a space, using evidence based approach, to make improvements in your life.
(855) 368-4455 View (855) 368-4455
Photo of Jane Townsend, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Jane Townsend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Are you pregnant or a new parent struggling with the new expectations, guilt, loss of a sense of self or feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Are you feeling so overwhelmed or lost that it's impacting your ability to function, engage in your day-to-day life, bond with your child or maintain important relationships? Now more than ever, new parents are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, parenting roles, and their life. Pushing away your needs and not taking time to care for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
Are you pregnant or a new parent struggling with the new expectations, guilt, loss of a sense of self or feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Are you feeling so overwhelmed or lost that it's impacting your ability to function, engage in your day-to-day life, bond with your child or maintain important relationships? Now more than ever, new parents are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, parenting roles, and their life. Pushing away your needs and not taking time to care for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
(202) 519-0449 x506 View (202) 519-0449 x506
Photo of Bronwen Rankin, Psychologist, PhD
Bronwen Rankin
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
I have over 20 years of experience in practice, and I have a background working in a variety of mental health settings. I work with children, teenagers, parents, and adults using techniques tailored to the needs of the client. My primary therapy approach involves skills-based Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I offer Individual Therapy, Group DBT Skills Training, and Parenting Work. I treat issues of mood, anxiety, relationships, personality traits, as well as behavioral and social issues.
I have over 20 years of experience in practice, and I have a background working in a variety of mental health settings. I work with children, teenagers, parents, and adults using techniques tailored to the needs of the client. My primary therapy approach involves skills-based Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I offer Individual Therapy, Group DBT Skills Training, and Parenting Work. I treat issues of mood, anxiety, relationships, personality traits, as well as behavioral and social issues.
(571) 336-0991 View (571) 336-0991
Photo of Emily Sander, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Emily Sander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Are you questioning whether you are "doing the right thing" for yourself and others? Do you have trouble saying "no", and then if you do, you feel guilty? Feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, your job, relationships/friendships, and family? If so, I am so glad you are here, taking the steps to better your mental health and well-being! Life is incredibly stressful and sometimes we need some extra support to help us get through it.
Are you questioning whether you are "doing the right thing" for yourself and others? Do you have trouble saying "no", and then if you do, you feel guilty? Feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, your job, relationships/friendships, and family? If so, I am so glad you are here, taking the steps to better your mental health and well-being! Life is incredibly stressful and sometimes we need some extra support to help us get through it.
(833) 315-4821 View (833) 315-4821
Photo of Brandon Kania, Counselor, MA
Brandon Kania
Counselor, MA
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Brandon, and I am a LGPC in Washington, DC. I have worked with adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I help adolescents work on emotion regulation skills, behaviors, and developing social skills. I use therapeutic approaches that focus on the client's strengths with emphasis on developing self-confidence and self-esteem. I help clients who have experienced trauma (PTSD) and are seeking relief. I can help clients of all ages decrease their anxiety and depression. Together we may incorporate the use of expressive arts, CBT, DBT, or mindfulness techniques into our sessions.
My name is Brandon, and I am a LGPC in Washington, DC. I have worked with adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I help adolescents work on emotion regulation skills, behaviors, and developing social skills. I use therapeutic approaches that focus on the client's strengths with emphasis on developing self-confidence and self-esteem. I help clients who have experienced trauma (PTSD) and are seeking relief. I can help clients of all ages decrease their anxiety and depression. Together we may incorporate the use of expressive arts, CBT, DBT, or mindfulness techniques into our sessions.
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Photo of Kevin Letsinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kevin Letsinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, meeting you where you are and working together to support your growth. I’ve worked with individuals facing homelessness and people living with HIV. As a 200-hour certified yoga teacher, I also integrate mindfulness, meditation, and breathwork into my practice for holistic healing.
My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, meeting you where you are and working together to support your growth. I’ve worked with individuals facing homelessness and people living with HIV. As a 200-hour certified yoga teacher, I also integrate mindfulness, meditation, and breathwork into my practice for holistic healing.
(202) 798-2936 View (202) 798-2936
Photo of Sara Battista - Greenhouse Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Greenhouse Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I'm Sara, the founder of this cozy little mental health practice! Greenhouse is home to a small-but-mighty team of providers who deliver high-quality, personalized mental health care to adults and teens of all genders. Whether you're tackling a specific challenge or just feeling like it's time to grow, we’re here to support you every step of the way. At Greenhouse, we believe mental healthcare isn’t a luxury — it’s a right. That’s why we lead with compassion, meet you with zero judgment, and celebrate the unique human you are. Our therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s personal, thoughtful, and rooted in real connection.
I'm Sara, the founder of this cozy little mental health practice! Greenhouse is home to a small-but-mighty team of providers who deliver high-quality, personalized mental health care to adults and teens of all genders. Whether you're tackling a specific challenge or just feeling like it's time to grow, we’re here to support you every step of the way. At Greenhouse, we believe mental healthcare isn’t a luxury — it’s a right. That’s why we lead with compassion, meet you with zero judgment, and celebrate the unique human you are. Our therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s personal, thoughtful, and rooted in real connection.
(202) 851-2990 View (202) 851-2990
Photo of Bianca McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Bianca McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My passion for supporting individuals and families stems from the belief that everyone can thrive in the right environment and with strong supports. My goal is to provide reliable support that promotes healing, growth and the creation of a positive personal and familial atmosphere for those that I work with. I am experienced in supporting children, parents and families through challenging life circumstances, trauma processing, and changes in family structure and composition. I see immense value in supporting the processing of familial experiences and relationships to promote future resilience and break unhealthy cycles.
My passion for supporting individuals and families stems from the belief that everyone can thrive in the right environment and with strong supports. My goal is to provide reliable support that promotes healing, growth and the creation of a positive personal and familial atmosphere for those that I work with. I am experienced in supporting children, parents and families through challenging life circumstances, trauma processing, and changes in family structure and composition. I see immense value in supporting the processing of familial experiences and relationships to promote future resilience and break unhealthy cycles.
(202) 810-4314 View (202) 810-4314
Photo of Gwendolyn Horton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Gwendolyn Horton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! My name is Gwen Horton and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. I am a psychotherapist who finds deep fulfillment in guiding individuals, couples, and adolescents toward healing and self-discovery. I meet my clients where they are, offering compassionate support as they navigate life’s challenges and work toward personal growth.
Greetings! My name is Gwen Horton and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. I am a psychotherapist who finds deep fulfillment in guiding individuals, couples, and adolescents toward healing and self-discovery. I meet my clients where they are, offering compassionate support as they navigate life’s challenges and work toward personal growth.
(844) 571-0396 View (844) 571-0396
Photo of Danielle Shpigel - Inspire Psychological Wellness , Psychologist
Inspire Psychological Wellness
Psychologist
Online Only
We specialize in working with adults experiencing psychological challenges including depression, anxiety & trauma. We also see individuals presenting with concerns related to relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity challenges, perfectionism, reduced self-esteem & difficulty connecting with a sense of purpose. Additionally, we offer specialized services to support individuals better cope with & heal from chronic and acute medical conditions. Please feel free to visit our website to learn more about our psychologists & our approach to enhancing mind-body wellbeing.
We specialize in working with adults experiencing psychological challenges including depression, anxiety & trauma. We also see individuals presenting with concerns related to relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity challenges, perfectionism, reduced self-esteem & difficulty connecting with a sense of purpose. Additionally, we offer specialized services to support individuals better cope with & heal from chronic and acute medical conditions. Please feel free to visit our website to learn more about our psychologists & our approach to enhancing mind-body wellbeing.
(202) 831-8960 View (202) 831-8960
Photo of Stacey Lenkin Saltzman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSW, MA
Stacey Lenkin Saltzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSW, MA
Online Only
My goal is to help clients address and to cope with the complex challenges they face in their lives. These challenges include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, relationship problems, self esteem issues, trauma and abuse. I work efficiently and effectively to help motivated clients identify and understand what are often unconscious defenses to experiencing feelings.
My goal is to help clients address and to cope with the complex challenges they face in their lives. These challenges include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, relationship problems, self esteem issues, trauma and abuse. I work efficiently and effectively to help motivated clients identify and understand what are often unconscious defenses to experiencing feelings.
(240) 339-6121 View (240) 339-6121
Photo of Alex Cople, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Alex Cople
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Washington, DC 20003
I specialize in two areas: 1) I help working professionals manage chronic anxiety, self-doubt, procrastination, and reduce overthinking to increase professional success. My clients work in politics, health, mental health, law, upper management, business owners, creatives, or PhD/graduate students. 2) Interpersonal stress. Understanding family dynamics, reducing social conflict, improving romantic relationships, and friendships. I work best with high functioning people who are introspective, motivated, and want change in their life.
I specialize in two areas: 1) I help working professionals manage chronic anxiety, self-doubt, procrastination, and reduce overthinking to increase professional success. My clients work in politics, health, mental health, law, upper management, business owners, creatives, or PhD/graduate students. 2) Interpersonal stress. Understanding family dynamics, reducing social conflict, improving romantic relationships, and friendships. I work best with high functioning people who are introspective, motivated, and want change in their life.
(703) 691-5830 x703 View (703) 691-5830 x703
Photo of Krista DiVittore, Psychologist, PsyD
Krista DiVittore
Psychologist, PsyD
Washington, DC 20005
I work primarily with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or identity shifts. I have a particular passion for working with professionals navigating high-pressure environments, and with neurodivergent adults seeking deeper self-understanding, support with interpersonal dynamics, and a greater sense of agency and authenticity in their lives. I am deeply committed to creating spaces that feel safe, collaborative, and affirming, where you can explore what is happening your life, and understand why, and what meaningful, sustainable change might look like.
I work primarily with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or identity shifts. I have a particular passion for working with professionals navigating high-pressure environments, and with neurodivergent adults seeking deeper self-understanding, support with interpersonal dynamics, and a greater sense of agency and authenticity in their lives. I am deeply committed to creating spaces that feel safe, collaborative, and affirming, where you can explore what is happening your life, and understand why, and what meaningful, sustainable change might look like.
(202) 519-7905 View (202) 519-7905
Photo of Abbie Daigle, Counselor, MS, LGPC, NBCC
Abbie Daigle
Counselor, MS, LGPC, NBCC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting new clients! Hi, I'm Abbie. I'm a licensed graduate professional counselor (LGPC) providing therapy to individuals ages 14+ in Washington, DC. I enjoy working with people of all ages, especially teens and young adults who may be exploring their identity and navigating life transitions. My goal is for therapy to be a vehicle to help get you to where you want to go. I believe strongly that therapy is not a "one size fits all" approach and trust that a client is the expert in their own life experiences. To this end, my approach to therapy is integrative and tailored to the individual wants and needs identified by each client.
Accepting new clients! Hi, I'm Abbie. I'm a licensed graduate professional counselor (LGPC) providing therapy to individuals ages 14+ in Washington, DC. I enjoy working with people of all ages, especially teens and young adults who may be exploring their identity and navigating life transitions. My goal is for therapy to be a vehicle to help get you to where you want to go. I believe strongly that therapy is not a "one size fits all" approach and trust that a client is the expert in their own life experiences. To this end, my approach to therapy is integrative and tailored to the individual wants and needs identified by each client.
(202) 972-3481 View (202) 972-3481
Photo of Dr. Mariam Gregorian, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Mariam Gregorian
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
When we are struggling with our mental health, the question often asked is “What’s wrong with you?” instead of “What happened to you?” Sadly, many people who have reached out for help have found themselves shamed, invalidated, and in worse shape than they were before. My goal is to provide an affirming and safe therapeutic environment for all identities, and I welcome individuals who are trying therapy for the first time, as well as those who have had previous experiences. I regularly work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
When we are struggling with our mental health, the question often asked is “What’s wrong with you?” instead of “What happened to you?” Sadly, many people who have reached out for help have found themselves shamed, invalidated, and in worse shape than they were before. My goal is to provide an affirming and safe therapeutic environment for all identities, and I welcome individuals who are trying therapy for the first time, as well as those who have had previous experiences. I regularly work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
(202) 930-8371 View (202) 930-8371

See more therapy options for Washington

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Washington, DC

3,000+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
69% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Aetna
63% Cigna and Evernorth
58% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Washington, DC see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Washington?

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.