Therapists in Kankakee County, IL

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Photo of Janette Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Janette Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manteno, IL 60950  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I received my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have worked with clients of all ages and have extensive experience treating those with mood disorders and those who have experienced trauma. My approach is fundamentally humanistic. Through my own life experience and work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to bring about great resolve. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be of the utmost importance. A "Good fit" is ideal and should be sought as well as treatment tailored to an individuals needs.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I received my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have worked with clients of all ages and have extensive experience treating those with mood disorders and those who have experienced trauma. My approach is fundamentally humanistic. Through my own life experience and work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to bring about great resolve. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be of the utmost importance. A "Good fit" is ideal and should be sought as well as treatment tailored to an individuals needs.
(708) 395-9658 View (708) 395-9658
Photo of Jamie J Beedle, MSW
Jamie J Beedle
Licensed Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I am a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in settings such as: public schools, alternative schools working with children ages preschool through adulthood.
I am a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in settings such as: public schools, alternative schools working with children ages preschool through adulthood.
(815) 605-7593 View (815) 605-7593
Photo of Ruth Bartman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruth Bartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Ruth Bartman, LPC, is non-judgmental, providing a safe and healing space for clients to explore life's challenges. Compassion, empathy, and respect is incorporated, building therapeutic and trusting relationships. She focuses on client's strengths and resilience to assist with creating a healthy, happy, and productive life. Ruth aids clients age 5 and above with grief, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, transgender, and more. She's skilled with end of life concerns with focus on quality of life. Ruth is skillful supporting adolescents and adults with complex trauma.
Ruth Bartman, LPC, is non-judgmental, providing a safe and healing space for clients to explore life's challenges. Compassion, empathy, and respect is incorporated, building therapeutic and trusting relationships. She focuses on client's strengths and resilience to assist with creating a healthy, happy, and productive life. Ruth aids clients age 5 and above with grief, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, transgender, and more. She's skilled with end of life concerns with focus on quality of life. Ruth is skillful supporting adolescents and adults with complex trauma.
(815) 384-1045 View (815) 384-1045
Photo of Benay McCue, MA, LCPC
Benay McCue
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Want to live a more meaningful life? Would you like to be happier, more joyful? Not sure where you want to go or what to change? I am a more active therapist in partnership with you to help you become more self-aware and stronger, and to map out a new direction to a more fulfilling life. Whether you want to completely change your life or want to achieve greater understanding, even small changes can achieve big results!
Want to live a more meaningful life? Would you like to be happier, more joyful? Not sure where you want to go or what to change? I am a more active therapist in partnership with you to help you become more self-aware and stronger, and to map out a new direction to a more fulfilling life. Whether you want to completely change your life or want to achieve greater understanding, even small changes can achieve big results!
(815) 317-5055 View (815) 317-5055
Photo of Nancy Johnston, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nancy Johnston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
My experience is with adults, teens, and kids in issues including domestic violence, anxiety, depression, childhood developmental trauma, grief, and relationship difficulties.
My experience is with adults, teens, and kids in issues including domestic violence, anxiety, depression, childhood developmental trauma, grief, and relationship difficulties.
(815) 974-0592 View (815) 974-0592
Photo of Jillian Thornton, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillian Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Jillian Thornton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and a Master’s of Human Development and Counseling. Jillian is an avid mental health advocate. Jillian applies her knowledge in CBT. DBT, BLT, narrative therapy and existentialism to aid in the change of each person’s awareness, happiness, and to eliminate people, places, and things that do not serve each individual that enters the therapeutic alliance. Outside of work, Jillian loves board games including Scrabble, Trouble, and Mancala. Her favorite pastimes are trying new foods and hanging with loved ones.
Jillian Thornton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and a Master’s of Human Development and Counseling. Jillian is an avid mental health advocate. Jillian applies her knowledge in CBT. DBT, BLT, narrative therapy and existentialism to aid in the change of each person’s awareness, happiness, and to eliminate people, places, and things that do not serve each individual that enters the therapeutic alliance. Outside of work, Jillian loves board games including Scrabble, Trouble, and Mancala. Her favorite pastimes are trying new foods and hanging with loved ones.
(815) 944-6140 View (815) 944-6140
Photo of Kayla Button, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Button
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kankakee, IL 60901
"Today is the day to reach out and tomorrow is the day to feel better." If you're anything like me, then you know that half the battle is reaching out to "[Fill In The Blank]" in order for you to start feeling better about whatever the situation might be. You might fill in the blank with the Dentist, a friend with whom you had a falling out, a family member you forgot to say happy birthday to, etc. I'm the same way in so many situations but once I've made that appointment, talked to the friend, made it to the gym, etc... I feel so much better! I hope that today's the day you say... "I'm reaching out to better my self... for me!"
"Today is the day to reach out and tomorrow is the day to feel better." If you're anything like me, then you know that half the battle is reaching out to "[Fill In The Blank]" in order for you to start feeling better about whatever the situation might be. You might fill in the blank with the Dentist, a friend with whom you had a falling out, a family member you forgot to say happy birthday to, etc. I'm the same way in so many situations but once I've made that appointment, talked to the friend, made it to the gym, etc... I feel so much better! I hope that today's the day you say... "I'm reaching out to better my self... for me!"
(815) 916-6468 View (815) 916-6468
Photo of Kristina Billadeau, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina Billadeau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Welcome. I am so glad you have decided to take the first step to becoming the healthiest, most authentic version of yourself! Life can feel like it's kicking your ass sometimes. Maybe you wonder why things feel so out of control. We can all use some help to dig through the chaos! My goal is to offer a safe, collaborative, and judgement free space where you feel supported as you work through what drags you down. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of losing yourself, relationships, or simply want to make sure you are showing up for yourself and your people, I would love to assist you on this healing journey.
Welcome. I am so glad you have decided to take the first step to becoming the healthiest, most authentic version of yourself! Life can feel like it's kicking your ass sometimes. Maybe you wonder why things feel so out of control. We can all use some help to dig through the chaos! My goal is to offer a safe, collaborative, and judgement free space where you feel supported as you work through what drags you down. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of losing yourself, relationships, or simply want to make sure you are showing up for yourself and your people, I would love to assist you on this healing journey.
(815) 591-5475 View (815) 591-5475
Photo of Brittany Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all". -Dale Carnegie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have years of experiencing treating children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in both outpatient and inpatient mental health settings. I have done pregnancy/parenting/adoption education and counseling, substance abuse/dependence counseling, and mental health counseling. I have worked with clients with a wide array of diagnosis or clients just needing help with life transitions or struggles.
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all". -Dale Carnegie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have years of experiencing treating children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in both outpatient and inpatient mental health settings. I have done pregnancy/parenting/adoption education and counseling, substance abuse/dependence counseling, and mental health counseling. I have worked with clients with a wide array of diagnosis or clients just needing help with life transitions or struggles.
(815) 635-8017 View (815) 635-8017
Photo of Thom Showers, LCPC, Counselor
Thom Showers
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hi there, thanks for taking the time to read my profile. It takes a lot of courage to seek help when dealing with emotional and mental health challenges. Talking to someone new about yourself can be intimidating. I have experience helping clients with a wide range of needs, such as anxiety, trauma, bipolar, and other problematic areas through a variety of therapeutic interventions. I provide a setting that is comfortable, safe, and completely confidential. The counseling journey should be interactive. Together we’ll process your challenges, trauma, or struggles in order to discover your goals and work toward positive change.
Hi there, thanks for taking the time to read my profile. It takes a lot of courage to seek help when dealing with emotional and mental health challenges. Talking to someone new about yourself can be intimidating. I have experience helping clients with a wide range of needs, such as anxiety, trauma, bipolar, and other problematic areas through a variety of therapeutic interventions. I provide a setting that is comfortable, safe, and completely confidential. The counseling journey should be interactive. Together we’ll process your challenges, trauma, or struggles in order to discover your goals and work toward positive change.
(708) 304-9004 View (708) 304-9004
Photo of William Lacy, MAMFT, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
William Lacy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAMFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Kankakee, IL 60901
Being raised in a family with thirteen siblings, I learned early how to see things from multiple viewpoints. Also, I've learned that it was okay to have different viewpoints and not be wrong, because it was that person's opinion or belief. I became interested in couples and families, because I've learned that there's a difference between being in a relationship and "just" being together with a person or persons. Although it's a human need to want to be in a relationship, it's also a personal responsibility to learn how to be relationship material.
Being raised in a family with thirteen siblings, I learned early how to see things from multiple viewpoints. Also, I've learned that it was okay to have different viewpoints and not be wrong, because it was that person's opinion or belief. I became interested in couples and families, because I've learned that there's a difference between being in a relationship and "just" being together with a person or persons. Although it's a human need to want to be in a relationship, it's also a personal responsibility to learn how to be relationship material.
(815) 916-5109 View (815) 916-5109
Photo of Angela M Jones, MA , SAP, LCPC
Angela M Jones
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA , SAP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kankakee, IL 60901
"Your most vital strengths are not visible to the naked eye. They are sometimes stumbled upon in your darkest moments."- Angela Jones, LCPC
"Your most vital strengths are not visible to the naked eye. They are sometimes stumbled upon in your darkest moments."- Angela Jones, LCPC
(779) 246-3261 View (779) 246-3261
Photo of Nicole Roy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Nicole Roy graduated from Governors State University in 2013 with a Master's Degree in Community Counseling. She has spent time working in various settings including residential treatment and community counseling centers. Nicole uses a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet the needs of her clients. She typically utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy but also includes aspects of Supportive Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Nicole helps clients address a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life events.
Nicole Roy graduated from Governors State University in 2013 with a Master's Degree in Community Counseling. She has spent time working in various settings including residential treatment and community counseling centers. Nicole uses a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet the needs of her clients. She typically utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy but also includes aspects of Supportive Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Nicole helps clients address a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life events.
(815) 706-2807 View (815) 706-2807
Photo of Jeanine A Mellish, LCPC, NARM, Master, Ther, Counselor
Jeanine A Mellish
Counselor, LCPC, NARM, Master, Ther
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Not accepting new clients
Jeanine Mellish supports adult clients and couples on the path of healing and integration. She began her study and practice of various forms of healing arts in 2014, including emotional, relational, and mental health healing. Jeanine specializes in the integration of complex (relational, developmental) trauma, primarily informed by the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) developed by Dr. Laurence Heller. She works in person or via video sessions as a Therapist at Jeanine A Mellish PLLC in Bourbonnais, Illinois.
Jeanine Mellish supports adult clients and couples on the path of healing and integration. She began her study and practice of various forms of healing arts in 2014, including emotional, relational, and mental health healing. Jeanine specializes in the integration of complex (relational, developmental) trauma, primarily informed by the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) developed by Dr. Laurence Heller. She works in person or via video sessions as a Therapist at Jeanine A Mellish PLLC in Bourbonnais, Illinois.
(779) 228-3105 View (779) 228-3105
Photo of Andrea Lareau, MSW, MT-BC
Andrea Lareau
MSW, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
We know life is full of ups and down. Sometimes there are more days where you dread getting out of bed, when we hit snooze to avoid the stresses that everyday life brings; our work and/or school responsibilities become daunting, or your marriage is fragile. Anxiety may be preventing you from embracing life to the fullest; maybe you have lost a loved one and need time and space to grieve. You are already taking the first step in helping yourself by looking for a therapist who can met your needs!
We know life is full of ups and down. Sometimes there are more days where you dread getting out of bed, when we hit snooze to avoid the stresses that everyday life brings; our work and/or school responsibilities become daunting, or your marriage is fragile. Anxiety may be preventing you from embracing life to the fullest; maybe you have lost a loved one and need time and space to grieve. You are already taking the first step in helping yourself by looking for a therapist who can met your needs!
(815) 934-8932 View (815) 934-8932
Photo of Kyle Lamb, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kyle Lamb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Kyle Lamb is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, currently working for a local practice called reSourced Wellness Group. He graduated with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Kyle services both individual and couples. He offers a person-centered, existential approach to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, spiritual, and couples/relationship difficulties. Kyle's clients have come to expect a warm, welcoming, and empathetic environment where they can sort through life's most challenging problems to meet their wellness goals.
Kyle Lamb is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, currently working for a local practice called reSourced Wellness Group. He graduated with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Kyle services both individual and couples. He offers a person-centered, existential approach to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, spiritual, and couples/relationship difficulties. Kyle's clients have come to expect a warm, welcoming, and empathetic environment where they can sort through life's most challenging problems to meet their wellness goals.
(815) 200-8518 View (815) 200-8518
Photo of Megan P, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan P
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Now accepting NEW clients! Please EMAIL to set up a new client intake appointment! I understand that all people ultimately strive to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their lives, but often times, life can get in the way of itself. I will help you recognize your value, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve the therapy outcomes you desire. I offer a warm, welcoming environment, with sessions structured to suit each client's own individual goals and needs.
Now accepting NEW clients! Please EMAIL to set up a new client intake appointment! I understand that all people ultimately strive to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their lives, but often times, life can get in the way of itself. I will help you recognize your value, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve the therapy outcomes you desire. I offer a warm, welcoming environment, with sessions structured to suit each client's own individual goals and needs.
(815) 768-2227 View (815) 768-2227
Photo of Carl E Boyens, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Carl E Boyens
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bradley, IL 60915
I am a counselor who believes in self determination and choices and therefore I believe in assisting individuals, couples, adolescents, and families (of all ages, races, genders, religions) to strengthen their disposition and resolve. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) as a technique to help individuals with PTSD and anxiety. I am an Illinois Supreme Court approved Divorce Mediator which provides me the opportunity to assist couples who are divorcing. Divorcing couples deserve to have a choice in divorcing with dignity while also not spending their children's college fund.
I am a counselor who believes in self determination and choices and therefore I believe in assisting individuals, couples, adolescents, and families (of all ages, races, genders, religions) to strengthen their disposition and resolve. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) as a technique to help individuals with PTSD and anxiety. I am an Illinois Supreme Court approved Divorce Mediator which provides me the opportunity to assist couples who are divorcing. Divorcing couples deserve to have a choice in divorcing with dignity while also not spending their children's college fund.
(815) 534-4678 View (815) 534-4678
Photo of Jamie J Boudreau, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jamie J Boudreau
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
"Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." (C.G. Jung) - - Suffering is an inescapable aspect of life...an aspect that always carries potential for personal growth and meaning. The challenge is to pause long enough to reflect; to face what life has put before us, which we can no longer ignore. Psychotherapy is ultimately about having a safe place for an inner journey to meaning; a journey accompanied by someone familiar with the path and the process. Whether it's normal life transitions or a major life disruption, the struggle contains an opportunity.
"Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." (C.G. Jung) - - Suffering is an inescapable aspect of life...an aspect that always carries potential for personal growth and meaning. The challenge is to pause long enough to reflect; to face what life has put before us, which we can no longer ignore. Psychotherapy is ultimately about having a safe place for an inner journey to meaning; a journey accompanied by someone familiar with the path and the process. Whether it's normal life transitions or a major life disruption, the struggle contains an opportunity.
(779) 212-7743 View (779) 212-7743
Photo of Angelica Vazquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelica Vazquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kankakee, IL 60901  (Online Only)
Hola, me llamo Angelica. Nací en México y crecí en el Norte de Nuevo México y ahora me encuentro en Illinois. Yo tengo mi cedula profesional en trabajo social clínico y practico psicoterapia desde el 2015 y en el 2019 hice la transición a tele-terapia. Mis valores son tratar a todas las personas con respeto, sensibilidad y compasión. El plan de tratamiento en psicoterapia es especifico basado en las necesidades únicas de la persona. Tomar el primer paso puede resultar en tener una vida mas complete y llena de felicidad. Yo estoy aquí para poyarlo durante su proceso.
Hola, me llamo Angelica. Nací en México y crecí en el Norte de Nuevo México y ahora me encuentro en Illinois. Yo tengo mi cedula profesional en trabajo social clínico y practico psicoterapia desde el 2015 y en el 2019 hice la transición a tele-terapia. Mis valores son tratar a todas las personas con respeto, sensibilidad y compasión. El plan de tratamiento en psicoterapia es especifico basado en las necesidades únicas de la persona. Tomar el primer paso puede resultar en tener una vida mas complete y llena de felicidad. Yo estoy aquí para poyarlo durante su proceso.
(779) 204-9148 View (779) 204-9148
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See more therapy options for Kankakee County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kankakee County, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Kankakee County, IL who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
94% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
68% Relationship Issues
68% Coping Skills
68% Self Esteem
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
75% Aetna

How Therapists in Kankakee County, IL see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kankakee County?

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.