Photo of Rachel Shine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Rachel Shine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
It can sometimes feel as if our thoughts are overtaking us, sending us down a negative or anxious spiral. In these moments, it can be difficult to think clearly, feel connected to our bodies, or even to take a deep breath. We start to panic, realizing that we are spiraling downwards, which often leads to even more panic. This negative or anxious spiral does not just live in our minds, but also impacts our everyday lives--we can experience difficulty sleeping, flashbacks, changed eating habits, or withdrawal from social activities, among other things.
It can sometimes feel as if our thoughts are overtaking us, sending us down a negative or anxious spiral. In these moments, it can be difficult to think clearly, feel connected to our bodies, or even to take a deep breath. We start to panic, realizing that we are spiraling downwards, which often leads to even more panic. This negative or anxious spiral does not just live in our minds, but also impacts our everyday lives--we can experience difficulty sleeping, flashbacks, changed eating habits, or withdrawal from social activities, among other things.
(872) 401-6627 View (872) 401-6627
Photo of Hillary Dvorak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Hillary Dvorak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that people are extremely resilient and it is a strength to ask for help!  My background is in child welfare where I have witnessed individuals, families and children overcome severe trauma. As a clinician, I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where we work as a team to face any and all barriers within your life.  Because you are your biggest catalyst for change, we work together to create a treatment focus centered around your personal mental health goals.
I am a firm believer that people are extremely resilient and it is a strength to ask for help!  My background is in child welfare where I have witnessed individuals, families and children overcome severe trauma. As a clinician, I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where we work as a team to face any and all barriers within your life.  Because you are your biggest catalyst for change, we work together to create a treatment focus centered around your personal mental health goals.
(312) 815-2266 View (312) 815-2266
Photo of Amalia Salmerón, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Amalia Salmerón
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I’m happy you’re here! I believe that healing takes place in relationship. My therapeutic approach is reflective, humanist, and conversational. I work through Relational-Cultural, Feminist and Person-Centered theoretical frameworks. We will be working together to create a space of healing that is non-judgmental and grounded in self-directive, goal-oriented, and strengths-based work. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to the therapeutic relationship, so our work together will be tailored to best address your needs.
I’m happy you’re here! I believe that healing takes place in relationship. My therapeutic approach is reflective, humanist, and conversational. I work through Relational-Cultural, Feminist and Person-Centered theoretical frameworks. We will be working together to create a space of healing that is non-judgmental and grounded in self-directive, goal-oriented, and strengths-based work. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to the therapeutic relationship, so our work together will be tailored to best address your needs.
(872) 219-1795 View (872) 219-1795
Photo of Michael A Conforti LCSW Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Michael A Conforti LCSW Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Jungian
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Life is full of twists and turns we never expected to encounter. We feel alienated and out of balance. Sometimes we simply feel lost and do not know which direction we are facing. Feelings of depression, anxiety and/or physical symptoms can shadow this experience and lead us to feeling more isolated. When we find ourselves in just this situation we tend to view it as if we are stuck. To me, however, we are being called to transformation and more often than not we all need assistance as we walk that path.
Life is full of twists and turns we never expected to encounter. We feel alienated and out of balance. Sometimes we simply feel lost and do not know which direction we are facing. Feelings of depression, anxiety and/or physical symptoms can shadow this experience and lead us to feeling more isolated. When we find ourselves in just this situation we tend to view it as if we are stuck. To me, however, we are being called to transformation and more often than not we all need assistance as we walk that path.
(312) 626-5653 View (312) 626-5653
Photo of Rex Dayola, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60640, IL
Rex Dayola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
It would be ideal for us to be motivated to improve our lives when things are going well. More often than not, we only make changes to our lives during times of darkness. In our work together, we can focus on finding the beauty, joy, and peace in your life. We can step into the darkness together with curiosity.
It would be ideal for us to be motivated to improve our lives when things are going well. More often than not, we only make changes to our lives during times of darkness. In our work together, we can focus on finding the beauty, joy, and peace in your life. We can step into the darkness together with curiosity.
(872) 204-1992 View (872) 204-1992
Photo of Justin Sato, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 60640, IL
Justin Sato
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MBA, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
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Photo of Natalie Dulin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 60640, IL
Natalie Dulin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I have the honor of working with individuals, romantic relationships, and families navigating complex life transitions. Some of my clinical specialities include anxiety, grief, intimacy, parenting, and identity development. My goal is to partner with you in your path toward healing. I lead with warmth, empathy, and authenticity to foster a nonjudgmental therapeutic space. I weave in humor, creativity, and curiosity to help create a nurturing experience for introspection and connection. I integrate multiple therapeutic models to fit my clients' needs to achieve the desired change in their lives.
I have the honor of working with individuals, romantic relationships, and families navigating complex life transitions. Some of my clinical specialities include anxiety, grief, intimacy, parenting, and identity development. My goal is to partner with you in your path toward healing. I lead with warmth, empathy, and authenticity to foster a nonjudgmental therapeutic space. I weave in humor, creativity, and curiosity to help create a nurturing experience for introspection and connection. I integrate multiple therapeutic models to fit my clients' needs to achieve the desired change in their lives.
(773) 974-1716 View (773) 974-1716
Photo of Jamie Bolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Jamie Bolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Jamie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Jamie believes in developing a trusting, supportive relationship with his clients, understanding that the decision to address one's issues can be both frightening and overwhelming. He believes that contentment in life is attainable, and will commit to walking with the client as they face fear, challenges and change. Jamie uses cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness approaches, as well as offering a variety of recovery models to facilitate his client's personal growth. Jamie earned his MSW from the University of Maryland.
Jamie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Jamie believes in developing a trusting, supportive relationship with his clients, understanding that the decision to address one's issues can be both frightening and overwhelming. He believes that contentment in life is attainable, and will commit to walking with the client as they face fear, challenges and change. Jamie uses cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness approaches, as well as offering a variety of recovery models to facilitate his client's personal growth. Jamie earned his MSW from the University of Maryland.
(773) 918-2182 View (773) 918-2182
Photo of Lois Ahn, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60640, IL
Lois Ahn
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I believe that our earliest relational experiences shape how we perceive ourselves, our relationships, and society. I approach this work through an attachment lens, meaning that I want to deeply understand each person’s unique relational history and how their story impacts their current sense of self, relationships, and roles in society. The process of change is relational, meaning that an authentic relationship between therapist and client moves the client towards change. I use the therapeutic relationship to help my clients explore various challenges and experience a different, healing connection.
I believe that our earliest relational experiences shape how we perceive ourselves, our relationships, and society. I approach this work through an attachment lens, meaning that I want to deeply understand each person’s unique relational history and how their story impacts their current sense of self, relationships, and roles in society. The process of change is relational, meaning that an authentic relationship between therapist and client moves the client towards change. I use the therapeutic relationship to help my clients explore various challenges and experience a different, healing connection.
(312) 210-0303 View (312) 210-0303
Photo of Lauren L. Breit, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60640, IL
Lauren L. Breit
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, as well carrying a Certification in Drug and Alcohol Counseling. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. I am also a Level III Reiki Practitioner and firmly believe in the power of holistic counseling. I specialize in working with adults, although have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families. I have a focus on those practicing alternative spiritualties, those struggling with trauma/PTSD, survivors of sexual trauma, male survivors of childhood sexual trauma, and first responders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, as well carrying a Certification in Drug and Alcohol Counseling. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. I am also a Level III Reiki Practitioner and firmly believe in the power of holistic counseling. I specialize in working with adults, although have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families. I have a focus on those practicing alternative spiritualties, those struggling with trauma/PTSD, survivors of sexual trauma, male survivors of childhood sexual trauma, and first responders.
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Photo of Kelley May, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Kelley May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, major life transitions, stress, mood disorders, relationship challenges and/or low self-esteem. I assist clients to analyze the past and present in order to gain insight on how they can cope with their situation effectively. I utilize a holistic and collaborative approach by incorporating psychodynamic, strengths-based and cognitive behavioral techniques to tailor sessions in order to meet clients’ specific needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, major life transitions, stress, mood disorders, relationship challenges and/or low self-esteem. I assist clients to analyze the past and present in order to gain insight on how they can cope with their situation effectively. I utilize a holistic and collaborative approach by incorporating psychodynamic, strengths-based and cognitive behavioral techniques to tailor sessions in order to meet clients’ specific needs.
(773) 692-9026 View (773) 692-9026
Photo of Amy Marie Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Amy Marie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I have worked with a variety of people with issues ranging from work related stress to serious mental health symptoms. Regardless of the challenges you face, I can help by using EMDR or Solution Focused Therapy to assist you with the steps forward you would like to make.
I have worked with a variety of people with issues ranging from work related stress to serious mental health symptoms. Regardless of the challenges you face, I can help by using EMDR or Solution Focused Therapy to assist you with the steps forward you would like to make.
(773) 985-4239 View (773) 985-4239
Photo of Caitlin Ruby Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60640, IL
Caitlin Ruby Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and overstimulated in a neurotypical world? Utilizing a therapy style uniquely crafted for you, I will work with you to find a sense of purpose, empowerment, and alignment with your deepest self. I specialize in working with clients exploring neurodiversity, "giftedness", burnout, queerness, creativity, ADHD, autism, boundaries, relationships, anxiety, bipolar, and depression. The strength in my approach comes from a balance of experimenting with tangible interventions to improve your daily life as well as insights that empower you to achieve a greater connection to yourself and the world.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and overstimulated in a neurotypical world? Utilizing a therapy style uniquely crafted for you, I will work with you to find a sense of purpose, empowerment, and alignment with your deepest self. I specialize in working with clients exploring neurodiversity, "giftedness", burnout, queerness, creativity, ADHD, autism, boundaries, relationships, anxiety, bipolar, and depression. The strength in my approach comes from a balance of experimenting with tangible interventions to improve your daily life as well as insights that empower you to achieve a greater connection to yourself and the world.
(312) 646-3784 View (312) 646-3784
Photo of Anna Zarovsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Anna Zarovsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I utilize a supportive and warm approach that is integrative of mindfulness and dialectical-behavioral principles. I work from the perspective that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to progress, and believe that it is the stepping stone to growth and change. Clients set their own pace and can process each step of their journey. I believe in gentle challenging to move through patterns that are not serving anymore and provide practical skill-use in and out of the office.
I utilize a supportive and warm approach that is integrative of mindfulness and dialectical-behavioral principles. I work from the perspective that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to progress, and believe that it is the stepping stone to growth and change. Clients set their own pace and can process each step of their journey. I believe in gentle challenging to move through patterns that are not serving anymore and provide practical skill-use in and out of the office.
(224) 212-1452 View (224) 212-1452
Photo of Ken Michaels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60640, IL
Ken Michaels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Many people enter therapy with me because they're experiencing problems with living. Often they've come to realize these problems seem to repeat themselves over and over again. Examples include managing intense and painful feelings, cultivating and sustaining intimate relationships and struggling to maintain an overall sense of well-being over time.
Many people enter therapy with me because they're experiencing problems with living. Often they've come to realize these problems seem to repeat themselves over and over again. Examples include managing intense and painful feelings, cultivating and sustaining intimate relationships and struggling to maintain an overall sense of well-being over time.
(773) 570-4804 View (773) 570-4804
Photo of Sydney Rinehart, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60640, IL
Sydney Rinehart
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a trauma and couples therapist, I work with survivors of sexual and interpersonal violence and those impacted by traumatic generational cycles or systemic oppression. Depression, anxiety, issues with focus and attention, rumination, chronic pain, identity crisis, and relationship issues act as alarms that tell us things need to change. Seeking therapy can be an empowering first step in reclaiming trust in yourself, your body, and your relationships. In couples therapy, we will work on communication, rebuilding intimacy and sexuality, and creating security and stability while ditching social scripts that don't serve you anymore.
As a trauma and couples therapist, I work with survivors of sexual and interpersonal violence and those impacted by traumatic generational cycles or systemic oppression. Depression, anxiety, issues with focus and attention, rumination, chronic pain, identity crisis, and relationship issues act as alarms that tell us things need to change. Seeking therapy can be an empowering first step in reclaiming trust in yourself, your body, and your relationships. In couples therapy, we will work on communication, rebuilding intimacy and sexuality, and creating security and stability while ditching social scripts that don't serve you anymore.
(773) 825-8609 View (773) 825-8609
Photo of Patrice K Quehl, Marriage & Family Therapist in 60640, IL
Patrice K Quehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include relational concerns, anxiety/depression, emotion regulation, young-adult development and life transitions (moves, school/career, divorce/separation, etc.) Interpersonal difficulties with repetitive arguments, communication and messaging, lack of understanding, stonewalling/withdrawal, infidelity, difficulty navigating needs and expectations. Together we will identify patterns, stressors, the role of beliefs, goals and emotions in motivating behavior. Life comes with problems, and success is dependent on navigating the ups and downs.
My areas of expertise include relational concerns, anxiety/depression, emotion regulation, young-adult development and life transitions (moves, school/career, divorce/separation, etc.) Interpersonal difficulties with repetitive arguments, communication and messaging, lack of understanding, stonewalling/withdrawal, infidelity, difficulty navigating needs and expectations. Together we will identify patterns, stressors, the role of beliefs, goals and emotions in motivating behavior. Life comes with problems, and success is dependent on navigating the ups and downs.
(312) 667-3940 View (312) 667-3940
Photo of Rachael Hoffman, Counselor in 60640, IL
Rachael Hoffman
Counselor, LCPC, MSAT
Not Verified Not Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. My approach to the therapeutic process is to create and hold a nurturing, secure and restorative space for all of my clients. In sessions, I use the natural healing elements of art and mindfulness while using my understanding of relational, feminist, cognitive behavioral, and client-centered theories to create a holistic approach.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. My approach to the therapeutic process is to create and hold a nurturing, secure and restorative space for all of my clients. In sessions, I use the natural healing elements of art and mindfulness while using my understanding of relational, feminist, cognitive behavioral, and client-centered theories to create a holistic approach.
(773) 207-3834 View (773) 207-3834
Photo of Dr. Valerie Velarde, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60640, IL
Dr. Valerie Velarde
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Dr. Valerie Velarde, and I'm happy you've chosen psychotherapy as a possible tool in your healing arsenal. I am passionate about guiding individuals as they uncover and reconnect to their inherent power. Do you have aspects of yourself that you struggle to find reflected in your communities or culture? Are you interested in fostering deeper self-awareness but struggle with implementing lifestyle changes? I work with individuals who are impacted by societal injustice, neurodivergence, anxiety or other mood disturbances, and people pleasing who want greater freedom and joy for themselves and our world.
Hi, I am Dr. Valerie Velarde, and I'm happy you've chosen psychotherapy as a possible tool in your healing arsenal. I am passionate about guiding individuals as they uncover and reconnect to their inherent power. Do you have aspects of yourself that you struggle to find reflected in your communities or culture? Are you interested in fostering deeper self-awareness but struggle with implementing lifestyle changes? I work with individuals who are impacted by societal injustice, neurodivergence, anxiety or other mood disturbances, and people pleasing who want greater freedom and joy for themselves and our world.
(773) 694-9451 View (773) 694-9451
Photo of Frank Floski, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60640, IL
Frank Floski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in working with the queer and neurodivergent populations with a focus on and sexual issues from performance to intimacy, sexual trauma, sexual/gender identity exploration, neurodiversity adjustment (diagnosed or not), executive functioning and sexual/gender identity. My goal is for my clients to gain an understanding of their lived experience and present circumstance and learn to synthesize these two parts of themselves. Healing past trauma wounds will provide my clients with a healthier outlook and framework to their current circumstances.
I specialize in working with the queer and neurodivergent populations with a focus on and sexual issues from performance to intimacy, sexual trauma, sexual/gender identity exploration, neurodiversity adjustment (diagnosed or not), executive functioning and sexual/gender identity. My goal is for my clients to gain an understanding of their lived experience and present circumstance and learn to synthesize these two parts of themselves. Healing past trauma wounds will provide my clients with a healthier outlook and framework to their current circumstances.
(773) 692-6220 View (773) 692-6220

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 60640

700+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in 60640 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
86% Relationship Issues
80% Self Esteem
76% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
58% Aetna
39% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 60640 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
28% Male
6% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 60640?

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.