Therapists in Sarasota, FL

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Photo of Megan Livesey, MS, LMHC
Megan Livesey
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety or stress and is struggling to balance personal life and work. They need practical strategies to manage their emotions, gain self-awareness, and improve their overall well-being. Their goals include reducing negative emotions, building confidence, and fostering healthier relationships. They want these changes to achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life where they feel in control, empowered, and capable of thriving in their personal and professional lives.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety or stress and is struggling to balance personal life and work. They need practical strategies to manage their emotions, gain self-awareness, and improve their overall well-being. Their goals include reducing negative emotions, building confidence, and fostering healthier relationships. They want these changes to achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life where they feel in control, empowered, and capable of thriving in their personal and professional lives.
(941) 239-2181 View (941) 239-2181
Photo of Dr. April Tonya Brown - Dr. April - Relationship, Sex, & Intimacy Therapy , EdD, LMHC, CST, NCC, BCTMHC, Counselor
Dr. April - Relationship, Sex, & Intimacy Therapy
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CST, NCC, BCTMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Are you wanting more intimacy? Are you and your partner constantly arguing and not connecting? Are you struggling with your mental health, your relationships, spirituality, and sex and you need someone to talk to and find some resources and solutions. If you need solutions, I can help. I offer TeleMental Health, Online Counseling, EMDR, Retreats and Gottman services for individuals, couples, and families in Spanish, English, and Creole. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, communication, intimacy, and sex. I offer free resources & information through my website, books, and through my podcast called "Bringing Intimacy Back".
Are you wanting more intimacy? Are you and your partner constantly arguing and not connecting? Are you struggling with your mental health, your relationships, spirituality, and sex and you need someone to talk to and find some resources and solutions. If you need solutions, I can help. I offer TeleMental Health, Online Counseling, EMDR, Retreats and Gottman services for individuals, couples, and families in Spanish, English, and Creole. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, communication, intimacy, and sex. I offer free resources & information through my website, books, and through my podcast called "Bringing Intimacy Back".
(941) 207-9441 View (941) 207-9441
Photo of Candice Burch - EMDR Therapist, Trauma Counselor, MS, EMDR, Th
EMDR Therapist, Trauma Counselor
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, EMDR, Th
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Are you ready to break-free from the grip of past trauma that's been holding you back? Are you tired of painful memories and emotional wounds, dictating your life? It's time to reclaim your power and ignite a fire within you, to pursue a life of tranquility and fulfillment. Therapy isn't just about coping with your struggles; it's about transforming them into strengths! Together, we'll dive deep into proven therapeutic approaches, like EMDR Therapy (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) arming you with the tools you need to heal from your trauma and regain control of your life.
Are you ready to break-free from the grip of past trauma that's been holding you back? Are you tired of painful memories and emotional wounds, dictating your life? It's time to reclaim your power and ignite a fire within you, to pursue a life of tranquility and fulfillment. Therapy isn't just about coping with your struggles; it's about transforming them into strengths! Together, we'll dive deep into proven therapeutic approaches, like EMDR Therapy (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) arming you with the tools you need to heal from your trauma and regain control of your life.
(813) 683-8262 View (813) 683-8262
Photo of Brad Eppley, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Brad Eppley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34238
I love helping people heal, develop and create healthier relationships. My passion is to facilitate transformational change that results in greater inner peace, healthy self love and joy in life and relationships. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I enjoy helping clients address underlying causes to symptoms like depression and anxiety. I am certified to do Neurotransmitter testing through Neuro Science and I work Holistically with an emphasis on Integrative and Functional care that focuses on the whole Being and helping clients to function optimally beyond just symptom relief.
I love helping people heal, develop and create healthier relationships. My passion is to facilitate transformational change that results in greater inner peace, healthy self love and joy in life and relationships. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I enjoy helping clients address underlying causes to symptoms like depression and anxiety. I am certified to do Neurotransmitter testing through Neuro Science and I work Holistically with an emphasis on Integrative and Functional care that focuses on the whole Being and helping clients to function optimally beyond just symptom relief.
(941) 203-3416 View (941) 203-3416
Photo of Hannah Bowers, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Bowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Relationships shape our lives, whether with family, friends, coworkers, romantic partners, or ourselves. When tension or conflict arises, it can affect every area of life—home, work, and school—and lead to anxiety or stress. If you've tried to resolve things on your own but still feel stuck, it may be time to seek support. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling to help you overcome barriers, heal, and reconnect. My goal is to help you rebuild meaningful connections and find peace in the process.
Relationships shape our lives, whether with family, friends, coworkers, romantic partners, or ourselves. When tension or conflict arises, it can affect every area of life—home, work, and school—and lead to anxiety or stress. If you've tried to resolve things on your own but still feel stuck, it may be time to seek support. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling to help you overcome barriers, heal, and reconnect. My goal is to help you rebuild meaningful connections and find peace in the process.
(941) 242-7077 View (941) 242-7077
Photo of Dr. Emily L. Robertson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Emily L. Robertson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Now seeing clients in-person in Sarasota/Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch Florida and also works with parents virtually in 41 other states. I specialize in child ADHD, defiance/oppositional concerns (e.g., tantrums, anger, hitting), impulsivity, and family conflict. I offer Parent Management Training and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) which are the gold standard treatment that focused on teaching parents skills to improve child emotional and behavioral health. See practice website to see if you are in a state we serve: www.centerforchildbehavior.com.
Now seeing clients in-person in Sarasota/Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch Florida and also works with parents virtually in 41 other states. I specialize in child ADHD, defiance/oppositional concerns (e.g., tantrums, anger, hitting), impulsivity, and family conflict. I offer Parent Management Training and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) which are the gold standard treatment that focused on teaching parents skills to improve child emotional and behavioral health. See practice website to see if you are in a state we serve: www.centerforchildbehavior.com.
(941) 213-8362 View (941) 213-8362
Photo of Laura Symon, LCSW, CSAT, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Symon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34232
Do you have anxiety that effects you physically and would like to decrease bothersome body sensations? Somatic Experiencing can help decrease these sensations and help you move through past traumas, injuries and negative core beliefs. Do you struggle sexually in the bedroom due to a history of sexual abuse, sexual addiction, or sexual dysfunction due to a medical condition? If so, I can help educate and walk you through the process to have a fulfilling and exciting sex life. I work with betrayed partners, sex/love/pornography addicts and those that have acted sexually outside of their primary relationship.
Do you have anxiety that effects you physically and would like to decrease bothersome body sensations? Somatic Experiencing can help decrease these sensations and help you move through past traumas, injuries and negative core beliefs. Do you struggle sexually in the bedroom due to a history of sexual abuse, sexual addiction, or sexual dysfunction due to a medical condition? If so, I can help educate and walk you through the process to have a fulfilling and exciting sex life. I work with betrayed partners, sex/love/pornography addicts and those that have acted sexually outside of their primary relationship.
(727) 349-2410 View (727) 349-2410
Photo of Craig Stratton, LMHC, Counselor
Craig Stratton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34240
Craig Stratton, LMHC Craig Stratton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2013. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of South Florida, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Auburn University, and a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida. Craig believes in providing individual, couples, and family therapy utilizing therapeutic techniques individualized to the specific needs of the client.
Craig Stratton, LMHC Craig Stratton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida who has been practicing since 2013. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of South Florida, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Auburn University, and a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida. Craig believes in providing individual, couples, and family therapy utilizing therapeutic techniques individualized to the specific needs of the client.
(941) 421-5799 View (941) 421-5799
Photo of Daisy Martinez-DiCarlo, LMHC-QS, LPC, CP, PAT, Counselor
Daisy Martinez-DiCarlo
Counselor, LMHC-QS, LPC, CP, PAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34238
I am a certified psychodramatist and I've been trained to work with individuals, couples, and groups to warm up in their bodies and to use action methods to create new roles which lead to new and adequate responses to life's challenges. I work to support trial lawyers, therapists, trauma survivors, and organizations to build a trauma-informed community.
I am a certified psychodramatist and I've been trained to work with individuals, couples, and groups to warm up in their bodies and to use action methods to create new roles which lead to new and adequate responses to life's challenges. I work to support trial lawyers, therapists, trauma survivors, and organizations to build a trauma-informed community.
(941) 208-6260 View (941) 208-6260
Photo of Megan Earles, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Earles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34237
I am passionate about walking alongside my clients in their personal journeys of transformation. My approach to therapy is strength-based and focuses on emotional, physical, relational, cognitive, and spiritual growth and healing. My compassionate and directive approach to therapy empowers clients to explore and create changes in their lives. I gently support clients in identifying and removing blocks to health, healing, connectedness, peace and happiness.
I am passionate about walking alongside my clients in their personal journeys of transformation. My approach to therapy is strength-based and focuses on emotional, physical, relational, cognitive, and spiritual growth and healing. My compassionate and directive approach to therapy empowers clients to explore and create changes in their lives. I gently support clients in identifying and removing blocks to health, healing, connectedness, peace and happiness.
(941) 229-7889 View (941) 229-7889
Photo of Rachel Funnell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Funnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
If you always do what you have always done then you will always get what you have always gotten. Are you tired of always getting the same result in relationships or with family members or with your kids? If so, then it's time to do something different. Take a chance in therapy with me. I am a strength-based, solution focused, marriage and family therapist with a solid CBT foundation that desires to help you and your partner, your family and/or your children find a different way of handling life's challenges.
If you always do what you have always done then you will always get what you have always gotten. Are you tired of always getting the same result in relationships or with family members or with your kids? If so, then it's time to do something different. Take a chance in therapy with me. I am a strength-based, solution focused, marriage and family therapist with a solid CBT foundation that desires to help you and your partner, your family and/or your children find a different way of handling life's challenges.
(941) 357-4090 View (941) 357-4090
Photo of Smith Morgan Tilka, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Smith Morgan Tilka
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Welcome! My name is Smith M. Tilka and I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I am so happy that you made it to my page and are in the process of taking these monumental next steps in starting your healing journey. Indeed, this can be an intimidating yet empowering moment for you. I must emphasize that I truly believe in the therapeutic process of change. And it is through gaining awareness, acceptance, and resolving action that one can work towards unburden themselves from their presenting issues and heal from their past wounds. My process is to create a warm and non-judgmental place to do so.
Welcome! My name is Smith M. Tilka and I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I am so happy that you made it to my page and are in the process of taking these monumental next steps in starting your healing journey. Indeed, this can be an intimidating yet empowering moment for you. I must emphasize that I truly believe in the therapeutic process of change. And it is through gaining awareness, acceptance, and resolving action that one can work towards unburden themselves from their presenting issues and heal from their past wounds. My process is to create a warm and non-judgmental place to do so.
(941) 274-4368 View (941) 274-4368
Photo of Richard H Nikla - West Coast Behavioral Therapy, MA, LMHC, CAP, ICADC, C-PD, Counselor
West Coast Behavioral Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAP, ICADC, C-PD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with offices in Sarasota and New Port Richey. My experience involves substance abuse, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders and anxiety disorders as well as guiding people to reduce stress and living a more fulfilling way of life. I attended school in Sarasota in the 1950's and early 1960's, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1970. I was in business in Sarasota until entering the mental health field in 1999 enrolling in Argosy/Sarasota In 2001 receiving a Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2005.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with offices in Sarasota and New Port Richey. My experience involves substance abuse, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders and anxiety disorders as well as guiding people to reduce stress and living a more fulfilling way of life. I attended school in Sarasota in the 1950's and early 1960's, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1970. I was in business in Sarasota until entering the mental health field in 1999 enrolling in Argosy/Sarasota In 2001 receiving a Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2005.
(941) 231-7880 View (941) 231-7880
Photo of Bradley Dorrill, LMHC, IMH-E®, Counselor
Bradley Dorrill
Counselor, LMHC, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34239
I am licensed as a mental health counselor, and qualified mental health supervisor for the State of Florida, and hold an endorsement as an Infant Mental Health Mentor - Clinical with the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health. For over a decade I have specialized in therapy with children age 0-17, families, and couples, while also providing qualified supervision of registered mental health counseling interns. I received my Master's of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Columbia International University, and have provided therapy for families and couples in their homes, outpatient office settings, and in my private practice.
I am licensed as a mental health counselor, and qualified mental health supervisor for the State of Florida, and hold an endorsement as an Infant Mental Health Mentor - Clinical with the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health. For over a decade I have specialized in therapy with children age 0-17, families, and couples, while also providing qualified supervision of registered mental health counseling interns. I received my Master's of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Columbia International University, and have provided therapy for families and couples in their homes, outpatient office settings, and in my private practice.
(941) 205-7170 View (941) 205-7170
Photo of Connie Reinhard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connie Reinhard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34240
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. I have over 25 years of experience providing counseling, supervision, crisis management and program management and development. I am a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. I have been an active member of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team for over 11 years working with law enforcement and first responders. I have worked with children , adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I have worked with law enforcement, first responders, military and veterans.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. I have over 25 years of experience providing counseling, supervision, crisis management and program management and development. I am a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. I have been an active member of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team for over 11 years working with law enforcement and first responders. I have worked with children , adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I have worked with law enforcement, first responders, military and veterans.
(941) 246-2217 x101 View (941) 246-2217 x101
Photo of Mark A Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark A Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34233
I have a wholistic wellness practice and we look at the client as a whole person. Despite race, gender, or financial status what we have in common is the time we have on our path through life. My practice is based on helping you to become the best version of yourself. What changes do you need to make, or new skills can you learn to stop making old mistakes or having past trauma dictate how you live your life today. I help my clients with the pursuit of a happy and peaceful daily life. We explore what that looks like for you. What changes will we make to get you to your personal happy place, mentally and emotionally?
I have a wholistic wellness practice and we look at the client as a whole person. Despite race, gender, or financial status what we have in common is the time we have on our path through life. My practice is based on helping you to become the best version of yourself. What changes do you need to make, or new skills can you learn to stop making old mistakes or having past trauma dictate how you live your life today. I help my clients with the pursuit of a happy and peaceful daily life. We explore what that looks like for you. What changes will we make to get you to your personal happy place, mentally and emotionally?
(941) 740-5810 View (941) 740-5810
Photo of Mary L Howell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary L Howell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide therapy with children, adolescents, & families in Sarasota County. Moms are the cornerstone of our families & need to be supported and uplifted. When our moms are struggling, the whole family suffers. I have recently studied experts extensively in the field related to parenting, developing skills in order to support families. I have also spent much time developing my portfolio in the field of Parenting & Child Development through the Forty Carrots Parenting & Family Center. I have been in practice now almost 25 years & look forward to helping support Moms, kids, teens & families.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide therapy with children, adolescents, & families in Sarasota County. Moms are the cornerstone of our families & need to be supported and uplifted. When our moms are struggling, the whole family suffers. I have recently studied experts extensively in the field related to parenting, developing skills in order to support families. I have also spent much time developing my portfolio in the field of Parenting & Child Development through the Forty Carrots Parenting & Family Center. I have been in practice now almost 25 years & look forward to helping support Moms, kids, teens & families.
(941) 909-3227 View (941) 909-3227
Photo of Melissa Houseman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Houseman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34232
Melissa provides evidence-based treatment utilizing a holistic, person-centered approach to convey unconditional positive regard. Melissa employs CBT interventions and mindfulness techniques to work collaboratively with clients. Melissa values continuous improvement and consistently trains for new certifications to bring new treatment modalities to her therapeutic practice.
Melissa provides evidence-based treatment utilizing a holistic, person-centered approach to convey unconditional positive regard. Melissa employs CBT interventions and mindfulness techniques to work collaboratively with clients. Melissa values continuous improvement and consistently trains for new certifications to bring new treatment modalities to her therapeutic practice.
(941) 541-6786 View (941) 541-6786
Photo of Kevin Bieber, LMHC, Counselor
Kevin Bieber
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34240
Only for people seriously ready to decrease and extinguish their Addictions, then remain Sober.
Only for people seriously ready to decrease and extinguish their Addictions, then remain Sober.
(754) 422-5000 View (754) 422-5000
Photo of Dr. Kelly M. Frazee, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Kelly M. Frazee
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34237
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with years of experience helping people of all ages improve their mental and emotional well-being. My approach is based on authenticity and empathy, creating a safe and collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to explore their areas of vulnerability.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with years of experience helping people of all ages improve their mental and emotional well-being. My approach is based on authenticity and empathy, creating a safe and collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to explore their areas of vulnerability.
(941) 541-1610 View (941) 541-1610
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Sarasota, FL

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Sarasota, FL who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
83% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
63% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Sarasota, FL see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Sarasota?

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.