Therapists in New York, NY

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Photo of Joseph Sacks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Joseph Sacks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013
Does your child have frequent tantrums? Is he willful and defiant, refusing to listen? Maybe she has problems in school and you suspect ADHD. The great news is, I have seen tremendous improvement in these issues with just 3-5 months of Child-Centered Play Therapy together with Parenting Counseling! Play Therapy puts your child in the driver's seat, giving him such an exhilarating sense of control over his own life, that he doesn't mind being told what to do so much outside of the session. In addition it allows him to process all of his overwhelming feelings.
Does your child have frequent tantrums? Is he willful and defiant, refusing to listen? Maybe she has problems in school and you suspect ADHD. The great news is, I have seen tremendous improvement in these issues with just 3-5 months of Child-Centered Play Therapy together with Parenting Counseling! Play Therapy puts your child in the driver's seat, giving him such an exhilarating sense of control over his own life, that he doesn't mind being told what to do so much outside of the session. In addition it allows him to process all of his overwhelming feelings.
(646) 681-1707 View (646) 681-1707
Photo of Mahiboob Syed-Vardhan, Counselor in New York, NY
Mahiboob Syed-Vardhan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(332) 239-6332 View (332) 239-6332
Photo of Alena Gerst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Alena Gerst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
Some people believe seeking the support of a therapist means they are weak. But it actually takes tremendous strength to ask for help, especially when you are used to handling your challenges on your own. My style is warm, interactive (I don't just listen and nod and ask how something makes you feel!), and I do enjoy a good laugh. I am passionate about mind/body health and wellness. I'm also driven by creativity...not just making art, but creating your life. Whether you are stuck in one particular area of your life, or you have been feeling not quite yourself, let's connect and see how I can help.
Some people believe seeking the support of a therapist means they are weak. But it actually takes tremendous strength to ask for help, especially when you are used to handling your challenges on your own. My style is warm, interactive (I don't just listen and nod and ask how something makes you feel!), and I do enjoy a good laugh. I am passionate about mind/body health and wellness. I'm also driven by creativity...not just making art, but creating your life. Whether you are stuck in one particular area of your life, or you have been feeling not quite yourself, let's connect and see how I can help.
(917) 746-1703 View (917) 746-1703
Photo of Alison Hart Siggelkow, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Alison Hart Siggelkow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
Many people come to therapy uncertain of how they got here. They're hungry for deeper meaning in life, to understand their inner world and discover a self they can love. You may have experienced narcissistic wounding as a child, feel caught in self-destructive patterns or low self esteem. Perhaps you yearn for meaning and a sense of belonging. Your life may feel marred by co-dependency, anxiety, shame or hopelessness. Maybe you just need a place to feel seen. Our work together can help you uncover your deepest needs and teach you to regard yourself with compassion and self-awareness.
Many people come to therapy uncertain of how they got here. They're hungry for deeper meaning in life, to understand their inner world and discover a self they can love. You may have experienced narcissistic wounding as a child, feel caught in self-destructive patterns or low self esteem. Perhaps you yearn for meaning and a sense of belonging. Your life may feel marred by co-dependency, anxiety, shame or hopelessness. Maybe you just need a place to feel seen. Our work together can help you uncover your deepest needs and teach you to regard yourself with compassion and self-awareness.
(845) 250-6904 View (845) 250-6904
Photo of Jason Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jason Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024  (Online Only)
My clients want to improve mood, self-esteem, relationships, sleeping habits, etc., and come to realize that something happens within the client/therapist relationship that does not happen alone. My typical client shows improvement within a few months, and then eventually meets with me less frequently (for 'tune-ups'). And, my clients sometimes return to sessions with me after leaving therapy, if things begin to go awry.
My clients want to improve mood, self-esteem, relationships, sleeping habits, etc., and come to realize that something happens within the client/therapist relationship that does not happen alone. My typical client shows improvement within a few months, and then eventually meets with me less frequently (for 'tune-ups'). And, my clients sometimes return to sessions with me after leaving therapy, if things begin to go awry.
(646) 679-5385 View (646) 679-5385
Photo of Francesca Lo Russo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY
Francesca Lo Russo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
The work of psychotherapy begins with a desire for change. Whether that takes the form of understanding confusing life transitions, processing painful events, improving relationships, understanding your attachment style, or accessing your creativity with more vitality and openness, I am here. My approach is psychodynamic, which seeks to help people develop an awareness for how the past affects present emotions, behaviors and thought patterns. I believe that people are capable of change and greater fulfillment when they become able to develop an awareness of these patterns.
The work of psychotherapy begins with a desire for change. Whether that takes the form of understanding confusing life transitions, processing painful events, improving relationships, understanding your attachment style, or accessing your creativity with more vitality and openness, I am here. My approach is psychodynamic, which seeks to help people develop an awareness for how the past affects present emotions, behaviors and thought patterns. I believe that people are capable of change and greater fulfillment when they become able to develop an awareness of these patterns.
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Photo of Stephan Goddard, Counselor in New York, NY
Stephan Goddard
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
Whether your thoughts are adaptive or maladaptive, they serve a function in your life. Through treatment, I will assist you in understanding those functions, what role they play, and how they are helpful or harmful. I believe problems manifest in how we interact with the people closest to us. Thus, our therapeutic relationship will help you to develop different ways of relating to others, allowing the healing process to begin. I'm well-versed in working with individuals of diverse races, sexual orientations, gender identities, nationalities, and traditionally marginalized communities.
Whether your thoughts are adaptive or maladaptive, they serve a function in your life. Through treatment, I will assist you in understanding those functions, what role they play, and how they are helpful or harmful. I believe problems manifest in how we interact with the people closest to us. Thus, our therapeutic relationship will help you to develop different ways of relating to others, allowing the healing process to begin. I'm well-versed in working with individuals of diverse races, sexual orientations, gender identities, nationalities, and traditionally marginalized communities.
(646) 956-5682 View (646) 956-5682
Photo of Michael Portelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Michael Portelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
Online Therapy only. Medicare accepted. Men in ACA: Welcome. Your Symptoms: Anger, Anxiety, Depression, CPTSD, Chronic Trauma from childhood. "I feel angry or frustrated all the time! I'm easily triggered and over-react. I need to stand up for myself but how and what to say in a way they can hear me? I can't seem to keep a healthy relationship going. I don't understand myself and why I keep repeating the same mistakes! Is this it? REALLY?" It's OK. Welcome to "normal" adulthood as a straight older American male (like me) who is struggling with current issues: troubled relationships, divorce, workplace conflict etc. Yikes!
Online Therapy only. Medicare accepted. Men in ACA: Welcome. Your Symptoms: Anger, Anxiety, Depression, CPTSD, Chronic Trauma from childhood. "I feel angry or frustrated all the time! I'm easily triggered and over-react. I need to stand up for myself but how and what to say in a way they can hear me? I can't seem to keep a healthy relationship going. I don't understand myself and why I keep repeating the same mistakes! Is this it? REALLY?" It's OK. Welcome to "normal" adulthood as a straight older American male (like me) who is struggling with current issues: troubled relationships, divorce, workplace conflict etc. Yikes!
(917) 791-3240 View (917) 791-3240
Photo of Rebecca Silverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rebecca Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Starting therapy is a brave step. It means facing yourself and the challenges life has thrown your way. The external world of everyday experiences, family dynamics, and social or workplace interactions can deeply impact our internal world and cause us to lose our balance. As your therapist, my aim is to help you find that balance. I am here to support you, tapping into your inner strength to help you function and feel better.
Starting therapy is a brave step. It means facing yourself and the challenges life has thrown your way. The external world of everyday experiences, family dynamics, and social or workplace interactions can deeply impact our internal world and cause us to lose our balance. As your therapist, my aim is to help you find that balance. I am here to support you, tapping into your inner strength to help you function and feel better.
(914) 252-3937 View (914) 252-3937
Linda R. Laughlin
Psychologist, PhD, MPA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
I believe that treatment is most effective when the individual seeking therapy is willing to delve not only her/his conscious but unconscious thoughts and feelings. One must be as honest as possible and collaborate with me to determine what is helpful to him and what is not helpful. Psychotherapy is a process, often a long process. A willingness to persevere, in spite of difficult sessions and periods, is critical. Change is hard.
I believe that treatment is most effective when the individual seeking therapy is willing to delve not only her/his conscious but unconscious thoughts and feelings. One must be as honest as possible and collaborate with me to determine what is helpful to him and what is not helpful. Psychotherapy is a process, often a long process. A willingness to persevere, in spite of difficult sessions and periods, is critical. Change is hard.
(646) 600-9107 View (646) 600-9107
Photo of Karen L Arthur, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Karen L Arthur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
TELEHEALTH AND OFFICE: Do you need a boost to manage your life? For those of us who suffer anxiety, depression, sadness, grief, sorrow or just want to improve overall wellness or enhance your life, I invite you to call me to discuss your current life circumstances. I have studied many healing therapies including EMDR, EFT, TFT,CBT, hypnosis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, coaching, past life regression,mindfulness, psychosynthesis, yoga, shiatsu & martial arts. I facilitate your process of living beyond loss due to death, feelings of abandonment, life transition and infertility. I use an integrated approach based on the your needs.
TELEHEALTH AND OFFICE: Do you need a boost to manage your life? For those of us who suffer anxiety, depression, sadness, grief, sorrow or just want to improve overall wellness or enhance your life, I invite you to call me to discuss your current life circumstances. I have studied many healing therapies including EMDR, EFT, TFT,CBT, hypnosis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, coaching, past life regression,mindfulness, psychosynthesis, yoga, shiatsu & martial arts. I facilitate your process of living beyond loss due to death, feelings of abandonment, life transition and infertility. I use an integrated approach based on the your needs.
(646) 386-2298 View (646) 386-2298
Photo of Jessica Oppenheimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jessica Oppenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Despite always doing the best we can in a given moment, there are times when we get stuck, feel pain, or want to be doing better. As a therapist, I strive to help individuals build awareness, increase self-acceptance and develop the tools they need to make desired improvements in their lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, adults and families. Using an interactive, authentic and non-judgmental approach, I aim to provide a space that feels safe to explore how your patterns of thinking and coping with emotions may be getting in the way.
Despite always doing the best we can in a given moment, there are times when we get stuck, feel pain, or want to be doing better. As a therapist, I strive to help individuals build awareness, increase self-acceptance and develop the tools they need to make desired improvements in their lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, adults and families. Using an interactive, authentic and non-judgmental approach, I aim to provide a space that feels safe to explore how your patterns of thinking and coping with emotions may be getting in the way.
(929) 470-0722 View (929) 470-0722
Photo of Lisa Brown, Psychologist in New York, NY
Lisa Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with adults as well as children, adolescents, and their parents. While working remotely, I am primarily seeing pre-teens, teenagers, and adults. I work with people for various reasons including anxiety, depression, wanting to develop a stronger sense of self, relationship stresses, difficulty reaching goals, and adjusting to new life stages. I provide a warm, collaborative, and empathic environment in which we can explore and get a better understanding of your particular experiences and work to help you or your child/teen feel better and make positive changes.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with adults as well as children, adolescents, and their parents. While working remotely, I am primarily seeing pre-teens, teenagers, and adults. I work with people for various reasons including anxiety, depression, wanting to develop a stronger sense of self, relationship stresses, difficulty reaching goals, and adjusting to new life stages. I provide a warm, collaborative, and empathic environment in which we can explore and get a better understanding of your particular experiences and work to help you or your child/teen feel better and make positive changes.
(646) 663-5448 View (646) 663-5448
Photo of Simone Schultz, Counselor in New York, NY
Simone Schultz
Counselor, LMHC, LMSW, LPC, NCC, CASAC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel that you just want to hide? Everything seems so overwhelming. You forget to breathe. Your friends invite you out and you say no, but what you really want to say is yes. You continue to miss opportunities and always think about excuses to come up with to avoid being in situations that make you feel uncomfortable. You are lonely and often feel isolated, but it feels so scary to put yourself out there. You are not even sure who you really are outside of your worries. You feel that no one can really understand you or what you are going through.
Do you ever feel that you just want to hide? Everything seems so overwhelming. You forget to breathe. Your friends invite you out and you say no, but what you really want to say is yes. You continue to miss opportunities and always think about excuses to come up with to avoid being in situations that make you feel uncomfortable. You are lonely and often feel isolated, but it feels so scary to put yourself out there. You are not even sure who you really are outside of your worries. You feel that no one can really understand you or what you are going through.
(332) 239-6406 View (332) 239-6406
Photo of Valerie Ziel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Valerie Ziel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
Valerie has experience providing psychotherapy services to New York City’s diverse economic, social, and cultural population who present with anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, and codependency. She believes that working from a holistic mind/body view, therapy can help unblock emotions, and address distorted thoughts, and traumatic life experiences. Her approach to achieving your goals is eclectic and integrative. When appropriate mindfulness, guided imagery, and meditative techniques will be integrated into your sessions.
Valerie has experience providing psychotherapy services to New York City’s diverse economic, social, and cultural population who present with anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, and codependency. She believes that working from a holistic mind/body view, therapy can help unblock emotions, and address distorted thoughts, and traumatic life experiences. Her approach to achieving your goals is eclectic and integrative. When appropriate mindfulness, guided imagery, and meditative techniques will be integrated into your sessions.
(929) 334-4845 View (929) 334-4845
Photo of Gavin Ryan Shafron, Psychologist in New York, NY
Gavin Ryan Shafron
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Especially for some of the most successful among us, we can hold ourselves to the highest standards of performance in all areas. Sometimes we may feel that we're supposed to have all the answers to the challenges life throws our way, even when that isn’t always possible. An achievement focus can come at the expense of other areas of our lives. I see therapy as a collaborative experience. I work with individuals and couples to help unlock what holds them back to gain an understanding of how our histories shape our present, while building a foundation of skills in the here-in-now to promote healing and a future that is self-defined.
Especially for some of the most successful among us, we can hold ourselves to the highest standards of performance in all areas. Sometimes we may feel that we're supposed to have all the answers to the challenges life throws our way, even when that isn’t always possible. An achievement focus can come at the expense of other areas of our lives. I see therapy as a collaborative experience. I work with individuals and couples to help unlock what holds them back to gain an understanding of how our histories shape our present, while building a foundation of skills in the here-in-now to promote healing and a future that is self-defined.
(929) 284-7971 View (929) 284-7971
Photo of Chandler French, Creative Arts Therapist in New York, NY
Chandler French
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Chandler French is a licensed and Board-Certified Art therapist blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Art Therapy. She works with children and young adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, developmental and learning disabilities, social anxiety, and behaviorally based issues. Chandler believes that parents' knowledge and support are essential for successful treatment. She offers a comprehensive and inclusive perspective on treatment, progress, and challenges. Her focus is recognizing your child's strengths and developing healthier coping skills to overcome obstacles and restore optimal balance.
Chandler French is a licensed and Board-Certified Art therapist blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Art Therapy. She works with children and young adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, developmental and learning disabilities, social anxiety, and behaviorally based issues. Chandler believes that parents' knowledge and support are essential for successful treatment. She offers a comprehensive and inclusive perspective on treatment, progress, and challenges. Her focus is recognizing your child's strengths and developing healthier coping skills to overcome obstacles and restore optimal balance.
(646) 956-2883 View (646) 956-2883
Photo of Ellen Mendel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Ellen Mendel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
As a seasoned psychotherapist of over 30 years, I combine a variety of approaches in my work which may be long-term or brief, in person or by phone. The concerns you present may be about relationships, work, health, stress-management, loss or other life issues. Together we will explore your personal history, long-standing patterns and crises, integrating an Adlerian-based cognitive-psychodynamic approach with Gestalt, mind/body work, dreams or other appropriate modalities. Our goal will be helping you to feel a greater sense of control in your life with discovering your inner vitality, creativity and wisdom.
As a seasoned psychotherapist of over 30 years, I combine a variety of approaches in my work which may be long-term or brief, in person or by phone. The concerns you present may be about relationships, work, health, stress-management, loss or other life issues. Together we will explore your personal history, long-standing patterns and crises, integrating an Adlerian-based cognitive-psychodynamic approach with Gestalt, mind/body work, dreams or other appropriate modalities. Our goal will be helping you to feel a greater sense of control in your life with discovering your inner vitality, creativity and wisdom.
(646) 863-6484 View (646) 863-6484
Photo of Enya Pfeiffer in New York, NY
Enya Pfeiffer
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Enya and I am a queer, trauma-informed therapist. My approach is guided by curiosity, empathy, and humor. I draw on psychodynamic, anti-oppressive, and relational frameworks, meaning our work may look like collaborating to investigate internal, communal, intergenerational, and systemic dynamics at play within your life. Throughout the process, my goal is to empower you to dismantle internalized oppressive narratives, embrace who you are, and discover what healing means and looks like for you.
Welcome! My name is Enya and I am a queer, trauma-informed therapist. My approach is guided by curiosity, empathy, and humor. I draw on psychodynamic, anti-oppressive, and relational frameworks, meaning our work may look like collaborating to investigate internal, communal, intergenerational, and systemic dynamics at play within your life. Throughout the process, my goal is to empower you to dismantle internalized oppressive narratives, embrace who you are, and discover what healing means and looks like for you.
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Photo of Emily Stein, Psychologist in New York, NY
Emily Stein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I work well with individuals,groups,and couples who are interested in better understanding their struggles, developing effective coping mechanisms, and feeling happier.
I work well with individuals,groups,and couples who are interested in better understanding their struggles, developing effective coping mechanisms, and feeling happier.
(212) 713-0686 View (212) 713-0686

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

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.