Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

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Photo of Stephanie Sanz, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Stephanie Sanz
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stressors that disrupts daily functioning, affects work, hurts relationships, and overall well-being? Do you feeling like life is passing you by or are confused about the next step in your life? Or perhaps you experience uncontrollable negative feelings, intrusive thoughts, or bad behaviors that prevents you from living a full and happy life. You want to learn how to stop the excessive worry, begin to live your life with hope and excitement, and have more motivation and energy to pursue your greatest ambitions but you just don't know where to start. If this is you, then you've found the right practice.
Are you struggling with stressors that disrupts daily functioning, affects work, hurts relationships, and overall well-being? Do you feeling like life is passing you by or are confused about the next step in your life? Or perhaps you experience uncontrollable negative feelings, intrusive thoughts, or bad behaviors that prevents you from living a full and happy life. You want to learn how to stop the excessive worry, begin to live your life with hope and excitement, and have more motivation and energy to pursue your greatest ambitions but you just don't know where to start. If this is you, then you've found the right practice.
(347) 848-1271 View (347) 848-1271
Photo of Maya Street-Sachs, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Maya Street-Sachs
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I provide a warm, open, and non-judgmental space for teenagers and young adults to work through and grapple with their identity, relationships, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is individualized and adaptable - allowing my clients to find a voice as well as a sense of empowerment and self-discovery through their experience with therapy. I strive to practice therapy through a structurally competent lens - keeping in mind how racist and rigid structures and systems in this modern life affect the mental health and well-being of the individual.
I provide a warm, open, and non-judgmental space for teenagers and young adults to work through and grapple with their identity, relationships, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is individualized and adaptable - allowing my clients to find a voice as well as a sense of empowerment and self-discovery through their experience with therapy. I strive to practice therapy through a structurally competent lens - keeping in mind how racist and rigid structures and systems in this modern life affect the mental health and well-being of the individual.
(646) 762-4345 View (646) 762-4345
Photo of Elba Sette-Camara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Elba Sette-Camara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Not accepting new clients
Is this a time when you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges in your life? I am passionate about helping you address difficulties and develop the solutions that are right for you. You need not allow fear and anxiety, depression and problematic relationships interfere with your daily experience. I strongly believe in the concept of progress not perfection, and identifying strengths as the key component to personal growth. Together in a safe therapeutic environment we will identify your strengths, empowering you as an individual to live your best life!
Is this a time when you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges in your life? I am passionate about helping you address difficulties and develop the solutions that are right for you. You need not allow fear and anxiety, depression and problematic relationships interfere with your daily experience. I strongly believe in the concept of progress not perfection, and identifying strengths as the key component to personal growth. Together in a safe therapeutic environment we will identify your strengths, empowering you as an individual to live your best life!
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Photo of Billie Jeanne Lowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Billie Jeanne Lowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11228  (Online Only)
I had my first rewarding experience as a client in therapy in high school. It was because of her that I went on to make my career in mental health. I think we spend much too much time obsessing over physical health when mental health is just as important and is often directly connected to your physical health. I look forward to working with you to identify the areas of your life that you’d like to see change as well as building the tools necessary to maintain that change. You deserve to feel safe and content in your life at all times. I hope you’ll give me the chance to help you get there because it is possible!
I had my first rewarding experience as a client in therapy in high school. It was because of her that I went on to make my career in mental health. I think we spend much too much time obsessing over physical health when mental health is just as important and is often directly connected to your physical health. I look forward to working with you to identify the areas of your life that you’d like to see change as well as building the tools necessary to maintain that change. You deserve to feel safe and content in your life at all times. I hope you’ll give me the chance to help you get there because it is possible!
(929) 560-2056 View (929) 560-2056
Photo of Claude-Aline Charles, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Claude-Aline Charles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212
I am Dr. Claude-Aline Charles and I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of counseling experience. I typically work with individuals with depression, anxiety and trauma, and often with adults encountering a series of life changes and transitions. I specialize in understanding cultural aspects and concepts of life, family, and community. My approach is client-centered and strength-based, meaning that you are met without judgment and provided with feedback and education regarding your unique needs. Therapy can be a space for healing and enlightenment where we embark on a rewarding, life-changing experience.
I am Dr. Claude-Aline Charles and I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of counseling experience. I typically work with individuals with depression, anxiety and trauma, and often with adults encountering a series of life changes and transitions. I specialize in understanding cultural aspects and concepts of life, family, and community. My approach is client-centered and strength-based, meaning that you are met without judgment and provided with feedback and education regarding your unique needs. Therapy can be a space for healing and enlightenment where we embark on a rewarding, life-changing experience.
(718) 701-8464 View (718) 701-8464
Photo of Cesia R Morillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Cesia R Morillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11232  (Online Only)
I am a NYS Bilingual (English, Spanish speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression disorders, ADD, trauma, and relationship issues in adults. In addition to speciality in working with couples in all stages, whether it’s seeking to strengthen relationship and grow as a couple, making a decision, or helping become uncoupled in a healthy way.
I am a NYS Bilingual (English, Spanish speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression disorders, ADD, trauma, and relationship issues in adults. In addition to speciality in working with couples in all stages, whether it’s seeking to strengthen relationship and grow as a couple, making a decision, or helping become uncoupled in a healthy way.
(929) 334-3901 View (929) 334-3901
Photo of Dr. Nikol Stancato, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Dr. Nikol Stancato
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238  (Online Only)
During our work together, you will be able to express yourself in a non-judgmental space. We will collaborate to establish goals during the course of treatment, such as developing coping skills, gaining insight into feelings, and attaining an overall sense of wellness. I will guide you in the direction you want go and help you recognize your strengths and achievements; therefore, using them to foster your growth.
During our work together, you will be able to express yourself in a non-judgmental space. We will collaborate to establish goals during the course of treatment, such as developing coping skills, gaining insight into feelings, and attaining an overall sense of wellness. I will guide you in the direction you want go and help you recognize your strengths and achievements; therefore, using them to foster your growth.
(646) 736-1057 View (646) 736-1057
Photo of Meilin Mehri, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Meilin Mehri
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I am a skilled clinical psychologist who can help you explore your interior self. I hope to assist you to increase awareness, improve relationships and learn healthier coping skills. Talking through and processing problems - and understanding the roots of recurring issues - can lead to a fuller, richer life. Depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues can inhibit people from reaching personal and professional possibilities. I will engage with you to explore emotions and reactions, and provide an objective, neutral and supportive environment for you to understand who you are.
I am a skilled clinical psychologist who can help you explore your interior self. I hope to assist you to increase awareness, improve relationships and learn healthier coping skills. Talking through and processing problems - and understanding the roots of recurring issues - can lead to a fuller, richer life. Depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues can inhibit people from reaching personal and professional possibilities. I will engage with you to explore emotions and reactions, and provide an objective, neutral and supportive environment for you to understand who you are.
(929) 209-7291 View (929) 209-7291
Photo of Destined Horizons, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Destined Horizons, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234
I am the founder of Destined Horizons, PLLC. We are a private practice of dedicated therapists. In a society where "everyday" life stressors and even trauma have become the norm we have always believed that there is a new horizon of awareness that awaits. With over 20 years of combined experience working with individuals and families, we have promoted change through providing therapy to a variety of clients. Our experiences range from individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and couple therapy. We currently serve the states of New York, Georgia and Maryland.
I am the founder of Destined Horizons, PLLC. We are a private practice of dedicated therapists. In a society where "everyday" life stressors and even trauma have become the norm we have always believed that there is a new horizon of awareness that awaits. With over 20 years of combined experience working with individuals and families, we have promoted change through providing therapy to a variety of clients. Our experiences range from individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and couple therapy. We currently serve the states of New York, Georgia and Maryland.
(855) 428-2190 View (855) 428-2190
Photo of Marie Mercado, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Marie Mercado
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Clinical psychologist and native NYer located in north BK. I know how hard it is to find an active and mindful therapist who truly appreciates your troubles and your strengths, and who can also help you make effective life changes. Based upon your needs, I work to get you unstuck and feeling empowered, resilient, healthy and strong. My integrative style is effective for adults and couples coping with neurodivergence, relationship and identity issues, difficult life circumstances, alt and non-traditional lifestyles, transitions, and familial difficulties. While I may not be accepting new clients, my practice is! bkintegrative.com
Clinical psychologist and native NYer located in north BK. I know how hard it is to find an active and mindful therapist who truly appreciates your troubles and your strengths, and who can also help you make effective life changes. Based upon your needs, I work to get you unstuck and feeling empowered, resilient, healthy and strong. My integrative style is effective for adults and couples coping with neurodivergence, relationship and identity issues, difficult life circumstances, alt and non-traditional lifestyles, transitions, and familial difficulties. While I may not be accepting new clients, my practice is! bkintegrative.com
(929) 543-5536 View (929) 543-5536
Photo of Leila Zhanybekova, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Leila Zhanybekova
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC, MPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with acculturation, racial and cultural trauma, gender identity and sexuality, depression, anxiety, and life transition. Together, we collaborate to explore your current struggles, look into your relationships, process your experiences, unpack intergenerational and racial trauma, identify patterns of thought and behavior, and develop insight into your life's path. In session, we build a warm, humorous, and authentic relationship to help you embody your values, grow more connected to yourself and others, build compassion for your emotions, and find a way forward from where you are right now.
I specialize in working with acculturation, racial and cultural trauma, gender identity and sexuality, depression, anxiety, and life transition. Together, we collaborate to explore your current struggles, look into your relationships, process your experiences, unpack intergenerational and racial trauma, identify patterns of thought and behavior, and develop insight into your life's path. In session, we build a warm, humorous, and authentic relationship to help you embody your values, grow more connected to yourself and others, build compassion for your emotions, and find a way forward from where you are right now.
(718) 865-3943 View (718) 865-3943
Photo of Cara Gomberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Cara Gomberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
Therapy is an opportunity to learn more about yourself in order to live life more fully and authentically. It’s a chance to process and express your emotions, as well as explore different parts of yourself. It’s a time to learn more about how your history, relationships and patterns inform who you are. It’s an opportunity to discover your strengths and resilience, confront whatever is keeping you stuck, and take steps forward. As your therapist, it is my job to provide a safe and supportive space, while guiding you through this exploration and growth.
Therapy is an opportunity to learn more about yourself in order to live life more fully and authentically. It’s a chance to process and express your emotions, as well as explore different parts of yourself. It’s a time to learn more about how your history, relationships and patterns inform who you are. It’s an opportunity to discover your strengths and resilience, confront whatever is keeping you stuck, and take steps forward. As your therapist, it is my job to provide a safe and supportive space, while guiding you through this exploration and growth.
(646) 470-1416 View (646) 470-1416
Photo of Erica Della Jacono, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Erica Della Jacono
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have a wide range of experiences working with folks with many different challenges. Primarily I focus on family/relationship dynamics, anxiety disorders, substance use, PTSD and trauma related concerns. I use a non-judgemental, open minded approach in collaboration with therapy-seekers.
I have a wide range of experiences working with folks with many different challenges. Primarily I focus on family/relationship dynamics, anxiety disorders, substance use, PTSD and trauma related concerns. I use a non-judgemental, open minded approach in collaboration with therapy-seekers.
(929) 305-1448 View (929) 305-1448
Photo of Marley K Dove, LPC Intern in Brooklyn, NY
Marley K Dove
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
With recognition that every individual is informed by their unique experiences and environments, it is my aim to enter your reality and explore it with you through a lens of curiosity and acceptance. I warmly welcome individuals looking to navigate aspects of their life related to identity and self-esteem, life-transitions and burnout, family and interpersonal relationship dynamics, communication skills, anxiety and depression, anger management, perinatal challenges, and other presentations of life stressors.
With recognition that every individual is informed by their unique experiences and environments, it is my aim to enter your reality and explore it with you through a lens of curiosity and acceptance. I warmly welcome individuals looking to navigate aspects of their life related to identity and self-esteem, life-transitions and burnout, family and interpersonal relationship dynamics, communication skills, anxiety and depression, anger management, perinatal challenges, and other presentations of life stressors.
(347) 706-3679 View (347) 706-3679
Photo of Eugenia Salomon Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Eugenia Salomon Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I am motivated by a desire to support people to make sense of what has happened to them across time, and to explore how their past experiences might be impacting their present lives. This has led me to focus on trauma-related issues, in particular the relationship between mind and body in response to traumatic experience. I have extensive experience working with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), disrupted attachment, abandonment, losses and intergenerational trauma. I am trained in psychodynamic and Jungian psychotherapy and draw on approaches from other schools of psychology and modalities
I am motivated by a desire to support people to make sense of what has happened to them across time, and to explore how their past experiences might be impacting their present lives. This has led me to focus on trauma-related issues, in particular the relationship between mind and body in response to traumatic experience. I have extensive experience working with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), disrupted attachment, abandonment, losses and intergenerational trauma. I am trained in psychodynamic and Jungian psychotherapy and draw on approaches from other schools of psychology and modalities
(718) 957-8273 View (718) 957-8273
Photo of Alicia McDonough in Brooklyn, NY
Alicia McDonough
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
We are inherently social creatures that yearn for connectedness but sometimes it is difficult to connect with ourselves. Even when we desire to understand our own pain and struggles, that inner connection doesn't always come how or when we hoped. I believe that a connectedness to one's self and others can be achieved; and can come more naturally with practice. As your therapist, I will foster a warm and supportive therapeutic environment for us to work together. This is a place where you can gently peel back layers of awareness so that you can more easily reach your authentic self.
We are inherently social creatures that yearn for connectedness but sometimes it is difficult to connect with ourselves. Even when we desire to understand our own pain and struggles, that inner connection doesn't always come how or when we hoped. I believe that a connectedness to one's self and others can be achieved; and can come more naturally with practice. As your therapist, I will foster a warm and supportive therapeutic environment for us to work together. This is a place where you can gently peel back layers of awareness so that you can more easily reach your authentic self.
(718) 550-8665 View (718) 550-8665
Photo of Iris L. Johnson, LCSW, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Iris L. Johnson, LCSW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11206  (Online Only)
I believe that the therapeutic process, although painful at times, is very rewarding and that individuals can heal and have fulfilling lives from engaging in treatment. My ideal client is a person who is willing to consistently attend therapy and trust in the process. I understand that "resistance" is a necessary part of treatment and believe that trust comes when the client and therapist continue to interact with each other. Therapy can be an unique and rewarding experience; please join me on the road to discovering your authentic self.
I believe that the therapeutic process, although painful at times, is very rewarding and that individuals can heal and have fulfilling lives from engaging in treatment. My ideal client is a person who is willing to consistently attend therapy and trust in the process. I understand that "resistance" is a necessary part of treatment and believe that trust comes when the client and therapist continue to interact with each other. Therapy can be an unique and rewarding experience; please join me on the road to discovering your authentic self.
(347) 848-1424 View (347) 848-1424
Photo of Lindsay Kazi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Lindsay Kazi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, KAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11232
I tend to work with individuals who have challenges and curiosities related to self and identity, unconscious internal conflicts and defenses, attachment and relationships, and how one's past and social location shape the present. I am relationally grounded, attachment focused and trauma centered; I believe that understanding and healing occurs in the context of our relationships, and therapy at its core is the building and deepening of a relationship.
I tend to work with individuals who have challenges and curiosities related to self and identity, unconscious internal conflicts and defenses, attachment and relationships, and how one's past and social location shape the present. I am relationally grounded, attachment focused and trauma centered; I believe that understanding and healing occurs in the context of our relationships, and therapy at its core is the building and deepening of a relationship.
(718) 408-8957 View (718) 408-8957
Photo of Viktoriia Plisenko, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Viktoriia Plisenko
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Viktoriia Plisenko evaluates each client as a whole person"“from psychological, social, and cultural perspectives"“and delivers compassionate care to every case she treats. Working with clients to explore and remove their triggers, investigate broader questions they may have, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to create a more balanced and peaceful inner self, Viktoriia offers guided help in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Viktoriia Plisenko evaluates each client as a whole person"“from psychological, social, and cultural perspectives"“and delivers compassionate care to every case she treats. Working with clients to explore and remove their triggers, investigate broader questions they may have, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to create a more balanced and peaceful inner self, Viktoriia offers guided help in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
(929) 333-3779 View (929) 333-3779
Photo of Safia Albaiti, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Safia Albaiti
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
I believe in the self determination and depth of your interiority and therapeutic journey. I believe much of what we experience as symptoms, interpersonal difficulties, role conflicts and stuckness is also a product of the many social contracts and norms that shape how we were raised in society, what we were told was the way to a good life, and how that may no longer exist or is experienced as broken, in sometimes traumatic or unnameable ways. The clinical space can offer a way to examine and explore your singularly experienced patterns more deeply in order to work toward healing and self actualization.
I believe in the self determination and depth of your interiority and therapeutic journey. I believe much of what we experience as symptoms, interpersonal difficulties, role conflicts and stuckness is also a product of the many social contracts and norms that shape how we were raised in society, what we were told was the way to a good life, and how that may no longer exist or is experienced as broken, in sometimes traumatic or unnameable ways. The clinical space can offer a way to examine and explore your singularly experienced patterns more deeply in order to work toward healing and self actualization.
(646) 798-4902 View (646) 798-4902

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Brooklyn, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
65% Cigna and Evernorth
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Brooklyn, NY see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Brooklyn?

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.