Therapists in Bellevue, WA

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Photo of Shawnna M Robinson, Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Shawnna M Robinson
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
My areas of focus are preteens, teens, and adults. I specialize with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, parenting concerns, family conflict, and self-esteem issues. I work with individuals 10 years old and up. Sessions are focused on your unique needs. Interventions are engaged that will help foster a healthy sense of self and promote healing. My session is a safe space with acceptance at the core. I am humbled to join with an individual and support them in their life story. In our sessions, your voice will be honored and used as a resource to obtain your goals.
My areas of focus are preteens, teens, and adults. I specialize with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, parenting concerns, family conflict, and self-esteem issues. I work with individuals 10 years old and up. Sessions are focused on your unique needs. Interventions are engaged that will help foster a healthy sense of self and promote healing. My session is a safe space with acceptance at the core. I am humbled to join with an individual and support them in their life story. In our sessions, your voice will be honored and used as a resource to obtain your goals.
(425) 215-1322 View (425) 215-1322
Photo of Whitney Dickey, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Whitney Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008
I am an Individual and couples therapist, r at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. With a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Santa Barbara, and a license to practice in Washington State, I am dedicated to delivering trauma-informed therapeutic care. At the heart of my therapeutic practice is a recognition of the importance of each client's history, culture, beliefs, relationships, identities, and narrative. I am committed to building therapeutic relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and care, offering a safe and validating space for clients and their support networks.
I am an Individual and couples therapist, r at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. With a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Santa Barbara, and a license to practice in Washington State, I am dedicated to delivering trauma-informed therapeutic care. At the heart of my therapeutic practice is a recognition of the importance of each client's history, culture, beliefs, relationships, identities, and narrative. I am committed to building therapeutic relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and care, offering a safe and validating space for clients and their support networks.
(425) 292-1269 View (425) 292-1269
Photo of Melissa Wohlhueter, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Melissa Wohlhueter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
"The best way out is always through" - Robert Frost. I believe in individualized, client centered care, designed to fit your life and empower you to live your best life. I have over 18 years of experience with a variety of modalities and clinical techniques. I am passionate about providing counseling that best suits the needs of the client. I have experience with diverse populations and persons from every walk of life.
"The best way out is always through" - Robert Frost. I believe in individualized, client centered care, designed to fit your life and empower you to live your best life. I have over 18 years of experience with a variety of modalities and clinical techniques. I am passionate about providing counseling that best suits the needs of the client. I have experience with diverse populations and persons from every walk of life.
(425) 243-5681 View (425) 243-5681
Photo of Dave Porter, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Dave Porter
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Gottman
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Are you struggling and wanting a more empowered life? Thru our work together you will experience a safe place to explore emotions, gain insights, practice new skills, and create positive change in your life. My person centric psychotherapy is focused on your goals, is strength-based, and rooted in a systems-thinking approach. I embrace the fact every individual has unique strengths and needs. Collaboratively we will work in ways that strengthen your relationships with Self and others; while facilitating your mind, body, and spiritual health.
Are you struggling and wanting a more empowered life? Thru our work together you will experience a safe place to explore emotions, gain insights, practice new skills, and create positive change in your life. My person centric psychotherapy is focused on your goals, is strength-based, and rooted in a systems-thinking approach. I embrace the fact every individual has unique strengths and needs. Collaboratively we will work in ways that strengthen your relationships with Self and others; while facilitating your mind, body, and spiritual health.
(206) 743-9293 View (206) 743-9293
Photo of Lauren A Crockett, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Lauren A Crockett
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I work with individuals who feel anxious, unfulfilled, and stuck. They are looking for support around life dissatisfaction and recurring patterns that keep getting in the way. I have over 15 years of experience offering empathic and reflective counseling for those in search of clarity, direction, healing, and growth. Through our work together, you will rediscover your core strengths and potential. We will examine how past experiences may have shaped current situations and what you would like to see change. When we have a greater insight, it often leads us to increased self-worth, confidence, and personal growth.
I work with individuals who feel anxious, unfulfilled, and stuck. They are looking for support around life dissatisfaction and recurring patterns that keep getting in the way. I have over 15 years of experience offering empathic and reflective counseling for those in search of clarity, direction, healing, and growth. Through our work together, you will rediscover your core strengths and potential. We will examine how past experiences may have shaped current situations and what you would like to see change. When we have a greater insight, it often leads us to increased self-worth, confidence, and personal growth.
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Photo of Melissa McCargar, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Melissa McCargar
Counselor, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a psychotherapist for And Still We Rise. I hold a Masters in Social Work from Texas State University. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients are the experts in their own experiences, and that there are no one size fits all solutions. I understand it is important to focus on underserved communities, and I am dedicated to providing a safe, affirming space where individuals feel supported. To achieve this, my approach to therapy is evidence-based and centered in equity and justice.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a psychotherapist for And Still We Rise. I hold a Masters in Social Work from Texas State University. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients are the experts in their own experiences, and that there are no one size fits all solutions. I understand it is important to focus on underserved communities, and I am dedicated to providing a safe, affirming space where individuals feel supported. To achieve this, my approach to therapy is evidence-based and centered in equity and justice.
(425) 386-7543 View (425) 386-7543
Photo of Patricia Magnani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Patricia Magnani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to create a safe, healing environment for clients to explore and resolve issues that are causing distress or holding them back from living a more fulfilling life. My style of interaction is warm, collaborative, supportive and strength-based, and I view my role as partnering with you to help you get unstuck, improve your relationships, and create the positive changes you are seeking.
My goal is to create a safe, healing environment for clients to explore and resolve issues that are causing distress or holding them back from living a more fulfilling life. My style of interaction is warm, collaborative, supportive and strength-based, and I view my role as partnering with you to help you get unstuck, improve your relationships, and create the positive changes you are seeking.
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Photo of Denise Kuyper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Denise Kuyper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am highly passionate and invested in helping people through the challenges and overwhelming feelings we face in life. It makes my heart sing when someone's well being improves enough to making empowering changes in his or her life. Whatever the issue I will collaborate with individuals, couples or families in an attuned and in depth way to find new pathways toward well-being. I realize the value in helping people move beyond the unfinished business of their past. Whether recovering from an eating disorder, trauma or other repetitive pattern, I work with clients to resolve their problems and establish a solid coherent self.
I am highly passionate and invested in helping people through the challenges and overwhelming feelings we face in life. It makes my heart sing when someone's well being improves enough to making empowering changes in his or her life. Whatever the issue I will collaborate with individuals, couples or families in an attuned and in depth way to find new pathways toward well-being. I realize the value in helping people move beyond the unfinished business of their past. Whether recovering from an eating disorder, trauma or other repetitive pattern, I work with clients to resolve their problems and establish a solid coherent self.
(425) 324-3547 View (425) 324-3547
Photo of Francine B. Baffa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Francine B. Baffa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Creating an engaged therapeutic relationship is where we start. I became a therapist because I believe in the power of relationships. Moved by my own experiences, I wanted to guide others to push past perceived limitations, obstacles, and fear to live a full and meaningful life. We all have the ability to grow, heal, and move forward. I have over 20 years of experience providing individual and group therapy, focusing on parent coaching, family systems work, and navigating depression and anxiety. I have sat across and heard many stories of loss and courage with an open heart - let's work together to explore yours.
Creating an engaged therapeutic relationship is where we start. I became a therapist because I believe in the power of relationships. Moved by my own experiences, I wanted to guide others to push past perceived limitations, obstacles, and fear to live a full and meaningful life. We all have the ability to grow, heal, and move forward. I have over 20 years of experience providing individual and group therapy, focusing on parent coaching, family systems work, and navigating depression and anxiety. I have sat across and heard many stories of loss and courage with an open heart - let's work together to explore yours.
(425) 598-0193 View (425) 598-0193
Photo of Brandy Hofstad, MA, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brandy Hofstad, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hello! My speciality is working with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults. As a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS), I enjoy working with youth while providing a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive, and comfortable environment to discuss challenges and hopes. My passion is helping children and adolescents increase self-awareness, find balance, and develop a healthy emotional awareness by strengthening interpersonal relationships, improving conflict resolution skills, improving communication skills, while learning and developing coping skills. I believe that having good mental health leads to positive self-image and the ability to work with life changes.
Hello! My speciality is working with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults. As a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS), I enjoy working with youth while providing a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive, and comfortable environment to discuss challenges and hopes. My passion is helping children and adolescents increase self-awareness, find balance, and develop a healthy emotional awareness by strengthening interpersonal relationships, improving conflict resolution skills, improving communication skills, while learning and developing coping skills. I believe that having good mental health leads to positive self-image and the ability to work with life changes.
(425) 495-3031 View (425) 495-3031
Photo of Wan-Ting Hsieh, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Wan-Ting Hsieh
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
I am also certified as a Mental Health Counselor in Taiwan (Certification# 002153), specializing in emotional distress, family conflicts, trauma, stress, self-exploration, adapting to life, personal relationships, etc., and provide services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Through various medium, such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Play Therapy, clients are assisted to understand and express their inner thoughts, hence manage and improve perplexity triggered by emotions and life.
I am also certified as a Mental Health Counselor in Taiwan (Certification# 002153), specializing in emotional distress, family conflicts, trauma, stress, self-exploration, adapting to life, personal relationships, etc., and provide services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Through various medium, such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Play Therapy, clients are assisted to understand and express their inner thoughts, hence manage and improve perplexity triggered by emotions and life.
(206) 432-4278 View (206) 432-4278
Photo of Connie Zollner, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Connie Zollner
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-C, CCPS-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008
I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing challenges in their relationship. I am passionate about working with those who are, or suspect they are, neurodivergent. My areas of specialty include supporting partners who have experienced intimate partner betrayal, infidelity, issues related to intimacy, and sex addiction. If you struggle to feel understood or become frustrated when trying to understand others, we can work together to find new ways of understanding and communicating. If you find yourself struggling to cope with intimate partner betrayal or sex addiction we can work together to find your new path forward.
I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing challenges in their relationship. I am passionate about working with those who are, or suspect they are, neurodivergent. My areas of specialty include supporting partners who have experienced intimate partner betrayal, infidelity, issues related to intimacy, and sex addiction. If you struggle to feel understood or become frustrated when trying to understand others, we can work together to find new ways of understanding and communicating. If you find yourself struggling to cope with intimate partner betrayal or sex addiction we can work together to find your new path forward.
(425) 390-5615 View (425) 390-5615
Photo of Hemlata Mistry, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Hemlata Mistry
Counselor, MEd, RN, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
(206) 466-3534 View (206) 466-3534
Photo of David Gaines, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
David Gaines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Are you finding yourself stuck? Hopeless? Is your relationship struggling with communication, intimacy and connection? You are not alone. You have taken a courageous step in reaching out. My approach to therapy is collaborative, systemic and strengths based. I am interested in the meaning made from your stories and life experiences. I find it is often in these stories, told to us and by us, that we find meaning and purpose. Unfortunately, not all these stories are desirable.
Are you finding yourself stuck? Hopeless? Is your relationship struggling with communication, intimacy and connection? You are not alone. You have taken a courageous step in reaching out. My approach to therapy is collaborative, systemic and strengths based. I am interested in the meaning made from your stories and life experiences. I find it is often in these stories, told to us and by us, that we find meaning and purpose. Unfortunately, not all these stories are desirable.
(425) 382-8410 View (425) 382-8410
Photo of Empathic Resilience Counseling (Katie Lunden), Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Empathic Resilience Counseling (Katie Lunden)
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NATC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Are you experiencing feelings of not being "good enough?" Do you struggle with people pleasing and chronic self-blame? Are you starting to wonder if you're in an antagonistic relationship in which your needs/YOU don't matter? Do you experience gaslighting that has you struggling with self-doubt? Do you struggle with feelings of guilt and shame? Are you struggling to navigate a relationship with an emotionally immature or emotionally abusive person in your life? Are you looking for a therapist that truly understands the heartache of grief and loss you're feeling from the kinds of relationships and/or life you wish you had?
Are you experiencing feelings of not being "good enough?" Do you struggle with people pleasing and chronic self-blame? Are you starting to wonder if you're in an antagonistic relationship in which your needs/YOU don't matter? Do you experience gaslighting that has you struggling with self-doubt? Do you struggle with feelings of guilt and shame? Are you struggling to navigate a relationship with an emotionally immature or emotionally abusive person in your life? Are you looking for a therapist that truly understands the heartache of grief and loss you're feeling from the kinds of relationships and/or life you wish you had?
(206) 792-5332 View (206) 792-5332
Photo of Ali Sokolow, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Ali Sokolow
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may simply not be living the most satisfying life. Or perhaps you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, which could be negatively impacting your relationships, your goals, or your general well-being. Life's challenges and obstacles are often difficult to overcome alone, but being able to cope and change behavior is possible with tools learned in counseling. Therapy can help to identify what is not working in your life, so that you can achieve your goals.
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may simply not be living the most satisfying life. Or perhaps you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, which could be negatively impacting your relationships, your goals, or your general well-being. Life's challenges and obstacles are often difficult to overcome alone, but being able to cope and change behavior is possible with tools learned in counseling. Therapy can help to identify what is not working in your life, so that you can achieve your goals.
(425) 318-7468 View (425) 318-7468
Photo of Michelle Wedig, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Michelle Wedig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I have worked with many clients with all types of eating disorders, as well as the many co-occurring disorders that go along with them. I also have a sub-specialty in working with those who self-injure or who may feel suicidal.
I have worked with many clients with all types of eating disorders, as well as the many co-occurring disorders that go along with them. I also have a sub-specialty in working with those who self-injure or who may feel suicidal.
(425) 336-7089 View (425) 336-7089
Photo of Susanna N Kanther, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Susanna N Kanther
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, CAMF
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Kanther is a Stanford trained cognitive-behavioral (CBT) therapist who combines the practical and deeper, profound aspects of the CBT model so it works on multiple levels. Her style of psychotherapy is collaborative, open, and will make sense to you. She works to make the therapeutic process honest, enlightening, and effective. Her expertise as a Health Psychologist and in using cognitive behavioral approaches to treat depression, anxiety, anger, and medical issues have allowed Dr. Kanther to witness great progress in individuals who were once skeptical of therapy.
Dr. Kanther is a Stanford trained cognitive-behavioral (CBT) therapist who combines the practical and deeper, profound aspects of the CBT model so it works on multiple levels. Her style of psychotherapy is collaborative, open, and will make sense to you. She works to make the therapeutic process honest, enlightening, and effective. Her expertise as a Health Psychologist and in using cognitive behavioral approaches to treat depression, anxiety, anger, and medical issues have allowed Dr. Kanther to witness great progress in individuals who were once skeptical of therapy.
(415) 689-9236 View (415) 689-9236
Photo of Larisa P Whipple, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Larisa P Whipple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
I believe the that therapy is an opportunity to explore ones inner world, express feelings and concerns, heal from pain and suffering, and learn how to harness a more enriching and fulfilling life. I have worked with people from all backgrounds and walks of life and believe that we all have the possibility to improve our lives. Suffering is part of the shared human experience, but how we deal with our unique circumstances differentiates each one of us.
I believe the that therapy is an opportunity to explore ones inner world, express feelings and concerns, heal from pain and suffering, and learn how to harness a more enriching and fulfilling life. I have worked with people from all backgrounds and walks of life and believe that we all have the possibility to improve our lives. Suffering is part of the shared human experience, but how we deal with our unique circumstances differentiates each one of us.
(707) 703-1854 View (707) 703-1854
Photo of Atylana Singh Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Atylana Singh Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I love counseling, coaching and consulting. In delivering these approaches to enrich my clients’ lives, different modalities are used. These include and are not limited to cognitive behavioral, emotionally focused individual therapy, and humanistic/existential format – pinpointing where the client is at, promoting an understanding of their subjective experience while also honoring their past experiences. For some, recognizing and bringing awareness on how those experiences influence their present lives cultivates healing- one goal being maximizing an individual’s potential to enrich their lives according to their core values.
I love counseling, coaching and consulting. In delivering these approaches to enrich my clients’ lives, different modalities are used. These include and are not limited to cognitive behavioral, emotionally focused individual therapy, and humanistic/existential format – pinpointing where the client is at, promoting an understanding of their subjective experience while also honoring their past experiences. For some, recognizing and bringing awareness on how those experiences influence their present lives cultivates healing- one goal being maximizing an individual’s potential to enrich their lives according to their core values.
(425) 225-3579 View (425) 225-3579

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera
55% Regence
52% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.