Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Abigail Hefer Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Abigail Hefer Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I look to hold an affirmative space as I work with individuals, honoring each persons complex and diverse backgrounds, identities, and histories. I aim to foster spaces where everyone feels valued, supported and inspired to achieve their vision for life. I recognize that each individual identifies in their own unique way and I look forward to meeting you where you are. I hold an integrative approach to therapy which blends Mindfulness practices, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused modalities. I approach therapy from a social justice framework, anti-oppression, multi-cultural and strengths-based approach.
I look to hold an affirmative space as I work with individuals, honoring each persons complex and diverse backgrounds, identities, and histories. I aim to foster spaces where everyone feels valued, supported and inspired to achieve their vision for life. I recognize that each individual identifies in their own unique way and I look forward to meeting you where you are. I hold an integrative approach to therapy which blends Mindfulness practices, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused modalities. I approach therapy from a social justice framework, anti-oppression, multi-cultural and strengths-based approach.
(503) 483-6964 View (503) 483-6964
Photo of Colleen Odell MS LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Colleen Odell MS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
PLEASE NOTE: I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS. I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in treating individuals with relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; and grief. I can provide you with a safe space and a trusting relationship with a caring mental health professional to resolve emotional pain, depression, worry or sadness. Our first step is to identify the core issues affecting your life; then we'll focus on making key changes to improve your life and relationships. You will find me to be caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and effective.
PLEASE NOTE: I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS. I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in treating individuals with relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; and grief. I can provide you with a safe space and a trusting relationship with a caring mental health professional to resolve emotional pain, depression, worry or sadness. Our first step is to identify the core issues affecting your life; then we'll focus on making key changes to improve your life and relationships. You will find me to be caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and effective.
(503) 545-6312 View (503) 545-6312
Photo of Gail Jean Nicholson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Gail Jean Nicholson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Passionate about working with individuals who want to explore and connect with a more authentic sense of self as a basis for defining their lives, work lives and roles in the larger community. I offer a blend of personal and career counseling to provide a holistic approach to career and life planning. My typical client is interested in finding direction and fulfillment, but is overwhelmed or discouraged. Focusing on personal issues or mental health concerns can reduce barriers to moving forward. We can work on defining purpose and direction, handling stress and tackling career exploration and job search.
Passionate about working with individuals who want to explore and connect with a more authentic sense of self as a basis for defining their lives, work lives and roles in the larger community. I offer a blend of personal and career counseling to provide a holistic approach to career and life planning. My typical client is interested in finding direction and fulfillment, but is overwhelmed or discouraged. Focusing on personal issues or mental health concerns can reduce barriers to moving forward. We can work on defining purpose and direction, handling stress and tackling career exploration and job search.
(503) 227-4250 View (503) 227-4250
Photo of Bart Colom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Bart Colom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC, AFC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Creating an environment for healing, resilience and growth. Therapy is not just a process that leads to functioning, but flourishing, as you become the person you were born to be. We believe in the power of your dreams!
Creating an environment for healing, resilience and growth. Therapy is not just a process that leads to functioning, but flourishing, as you become the person you were born to be. We believe in the power of your dreams!
(503) 751-8934 View (503) 751-8934
Photo of Gudmund Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Gudmund Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
My approach to therapy is compassionate and direct. I will be respectful, but I will also be honest. I routinely give homework assignments as part of therapy, with the belief that if you accomplish the task you will start to experience the change you seek. I will try to understand both the nature and context of your problem and the potential impact of change before I offer helpful solutions. I will ask you about where you are trying to go, and we will work together to develop a practical plan to help you get there.
My approach to therapy is compassionate and direct. I will be respectful, but I will also be honest. I routinely give homework assignments as part of therapy, with the belief that if you accomplish the task you will start to experience the change you seek. I will try to understand both the nature and context of your problem and the potential impact of change before I offer helpful solutions. I will ask you about where you are trying to go, and we will work together to develop a practical plan to help you get there.
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Photo of Kathleen McLaughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kathleen McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Not accepting new clients
Psychotherapy is not just a matter of skills and techniques. Healing occurs when, in a safe environment, you can speak and hear your own voice, tell your own story, and find someone really listening to you. When you feel heard, new insights can emerge. Anxiety, depression, worry, or conflicts constrict your experience and personal relationships. A therapeutic relationship can provide an opportunity to be accompanied as you express your feelings, thoughts, and concerns. You become more open, able to make new choices. Your more authentic self can emerge as your inner landscape changes. I am interested in hearing and seeing you, as you are.
Psychotherapy is not just a matter of skills and techniques. Healing occurs when, in a safe environment, you can speak and hear your own voice, tell your own story, and find someone really listening to you. When you feel heard, new insights can emerge. Anxiety, depression, worry, or conflicts constrict your experience and personal relationships. A therapeutic relationship can provide an opportunity to be accompanied as you express your feelings, thoughts, and concerns. You become more open, able to make new choices. Your more authentic self can emerge as your inner landscape changes. I am interested in hearing and seeing you, as you are.
(503) 897-0909 View (503) 897-0909
Photo of Ángela Vásquez Vásquez, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Ángela Vásquez Vásquez
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Currently accepting new clients! If you or your child are facing challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, or struggles related to gender or racial identity, I am here to support you. Using my own personal experience, I strive to provide support to children ages 3+, adolescents and adults who are struggling to heal and find peace within their own existence. I have a passionate and sincere dedication and conviction to make therapy accessible for everyone regardless of who they are or where they come from so they can also have an equal opportunity to achieve their well-being.
Currently accepting new clients! If you or your child are facing challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, or struggles related to gender or racial identity, I am here to support you. Using my own personal experience, I strive to provide support to children ages 3+, adolescents and adults who are struggling to heal and find peace within their own existence. I have a passionate and sincere dedication and conviction to make therapy accessible for everyone regardless of who they are or where they come from so they can also have an equal opportunity to achieve their well-being.
(971) 414-2761 View (971) 414-2761
Photo of Jillynn Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Jillynn Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a humanistic, strengths-based queer identified therapist. I have 20+ years experience supporting clients from the LGBTQIA2S+ community, neurodivergent clients and individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression and various life transitions. I believe that trust is the foundation of a healthy therapeutic relationship and as such, I commit to showing up to our work together as authentically, and with as much transparency, as possible. I will support you in exploring the deeper questions related to whatever challenge you are navigating and hold space for you as you explore the thoughts, feelings and insights that arise.
I am a humanistic, strengths-based queer identified therapist. I have 20+ years experience supporting clients from the LGBTQIA2S+ community, neurodivergent clients and individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression and various life transitions. I believe that trust is the foundation of a healthy therapeutic relationship and as such, I commit to showing up to our work together as authentically, and with as much transparency, as possible. I will support you in exploring the deeper questions related to whatever challenge you are navigating and hold space for you as you explore the thoughts, feelings and insights that arise.
(503) 479-2095 View (503) 479-2095
Photo of Patricia Albrecht, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Patricia Albrecht
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I work with adults and families to fully understand who they are and then tailor treatment to match their needs. Each person brings in their own history, current distress, experiences, strengths and relational patterns. Years of experience and study allow me to offer a range of therapeutic approaches and techniques.
I work with adults and families to fully understand who they are and then tailor treatment to match their needs. Each person brings in their own history, current distress, experiences, strengths and relational patterns. Years of experience and study allow me to offer a range of therapeutic approaches and techniques.
(971) 308-5273 View (971) 308-5273
Photo of Julian Bermudez in Portland, OR
Julian Bermudez
MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
The clients that align best with my therapy are individuals that are looking for something deeper, experiential, and with lasting effects. Having a goal of understanding oneself, taking a honest truthful look at one's relationship to oneself, and having a strong desire to reclaim agency and power in life. This requires not only being willing, but also having a strong desire to identify emotions, process, comfort and soothe the pain and constrictions that led one to seek therapy. Being willing to implement the skills and tools we work on so as to not need my assistance indefinitely. Visit psychedelic-integration.net to learn more.
The clients that align best with my therapy are individuals that are looking for something deeper, experiential, and with lasting effects. Having a goal of understanding oneself, taking a honest truthful look at one's relationship to oneself, and having a strong desire to reclaim agency and power in life. This requires not only being willing, but also having a strong desire to identify emotions, process, comfort and soothe the pain and constrictions that led one to seek therapy. Being willing to implement the skills and tools we work on so as to not need my assistance indefinitely. Visit psychedelic-integration.net to learn more.
(503) 386-0416 View (503) 386-0416
Photo of Stephanie Tolentino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Stephanie Tolentino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
*Exclusively Telehealth visits* I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 12 plus years of experience in end of life care, counseling, conflict resolution, crisis intervention, and building positive communication skills with clients of diverse backgrounds. My career as a social worker has allowed me to work with clients impacted by depression, anxiety, end-of-life issues, grief, LGBTQ issues, gender dysphoria, domestic violence, substance abuse issues, homelessness, and trauma.
*Exclusively Telehealth visits* I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 12 plus years of experience in end of life care, counseling, conflict resolution, crisis intervention, and building positive communication skills with clients of diverse backgrounds. My career as a social worker has allowed me to work with clients impacted by depression, anxiety, end-of-life issues, grief, LGBTQ issues, gender dysphoria, domestic violence, substance abuse issues, homelessness, and trauma.
(971) 247-1240 View (971) 247-1240
Photo of C.J. Sanders, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
C.J. Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97280  (Online Only)
Our relationships are our most important asset. And when something feels off it can be excruciating. Through utilizing the latest research in the fields of attachment, neuroscience, and communication we can collaborate to get things back on track. You will learn some new skills in conflict management—even if you are conflict avoidant! And we will get some psychobiological hacks on board quickly which can result in fewer arguments and a greater sense of connection. Many busy couples today are craving a more fulfilling partnership truly sharing the mental and emotional load.
Our relationships are our most important asset. And when something feels off it can be excruciating. Through utilizing the latest research in the fields of attachment, neuroscience, and communication we can collaborate to get things back on track. You will learn some new skills in conflict management—even if you are conflict avoidant! And we will get some psychobiological hacks on board quickly which can result in fewer arguments and a greater sense of connection. Many busy couples today are craving a more fulfilling partnership truly sharing the mental and emotional load.
(971) 252-7556 View (971) 252-7556
Photo of Lauren Whitelaw, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Lauren Whitelaw
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
Talk therapy is a brave endeavor and can be extremely creative and rewarding. The most important part of my approach is creating an effective working partnership with you, so that you can get the most out of therapy. Ongoing distress in our lives can bring us to therapy, and with good work can lead us to both acceptance and long-term psychological flexibility and wellness. Many people find this path to be an exciting and generative one. It can even be fun at times. With my training from around the world, I specialize in creating unique clinical formulations to aid clients in fostering shifts in their lives.
Talk therapy is a brave endeavor and can be extremely creative and rewarding. The most important part of my approach is creating an effective working partnership with you, so that you can get the most out of therapy. Ongoing distress in our lives can bring us to therapy, and with good work can lead us to both acceptance and long-term psychological flexibility and wellness. Many people find this path to be an exciting and generative one. It can even be fun at times. With my training from around the world, I specialize in creating unique clinical formulations to aid clients in fostering shifts in their lives.
(503) 828-0672 View (503) 828-0672
Photo of Melisa De Seguirant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Melisa De Seguirant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Currently OPEN to new clients! Calling all creative, LGBTQIA+, ethically non-monogamous, neurodivergent, kinky people and other normative culture misfits! If you are interested in disrupting programmed patterns, repairing attachment wounding, integrating trauma and stepping into a more authentic, expansive way of being, let’s talk.
Currently OPEN to new clients! Calling all creative, LGBTQIA+, ethically non-monogamous, neurodivergent, kinky people and other normative culture misfits! If you are interested in disrupting programmed patterns, repairing attachment wounding, integrating trauma and stepping into a more authentic, expansive way of being, let’s talk.
(503) 749-9776 View (503) 749-9776
Photo of Matt Kidder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Matt Kidder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC I
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Hello! My guess is that you're currently feeling a bit overwhelmed and possibly frustrated by the task of finding a therapist who both resonates with you and, is available. Being overwhelmed by the complexity of our lives, by our relationships, our work-lives and by the financial pressures we sometimes face seems to have become the "new normal" for many of us. Helping clients better manage these challenges while finding new solutions in an open-minded, comfortable and at times humorous environment is at the core of my practice. I enjoy working with youth, adults and couples seeking helpful new life-skills and big picture clarity.
Hello! My guess is that you're currently feeling a bit overwhelmed and possibly frustrated by the task of finding a therapist who both resonates with you and, is available. Being overwhelmed by the complexity of our lives, by our relationships, our work-lives and by the financial pressures we sometimes face seems to have become the "new normal" for many of us. Helping clients better manage these challenges while finding new solutions in an open-minded, comfortable and at times humorous environment is at the core of my practice. I enjoy working with youth, adults and couples seeking helpful new life-skills and big picture clarity.
(971) 290-4212 View (971) 290-4212
Photo of Catherine Gobel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Catherine Gobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97286
As a social worker and therapist I am passionate about helping people as they transition through and process difficult experiences. Times of transition or loss can call up unresolved feelings from the past. Together we can move through and process your emotions so that you don't feel so alone with what you're experiencing. If you identify as a Highly Sensitive Person, I am here to help you learn new tools to navigate the overstimulating world we live in. I am offering walk and talk/ hiking sessions near Portland if that is of interest to you.
As a social worker and therapist I am passionate about helping people as they transition through and process difficult experiences. Times of transition or loss can call up unresolved feelings from the past. Together we can move through and process your emotions so that you don't feel so alone with what you're experiencing. If you identify as a Highly Sensitive Person, I am here to help you learn new tools to navigate the overstimulating world we live in. I am offering walk and talk/ hiking sessions near Portland if that is of interest to you.
(971) 260-4952 View (971) 260-4952
Photo of Annie McConnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Annie McConnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I enjoy working with people of all different ages, abilities, identities, sexual orientations, and backgrounds. I incorporate equity and justice within my work. I especially enjoy working with people as they move through different life cycle stages and the ways that this might impact functioning or sense of identity. I have experience working with people living with anxiety, depression, experienced trauma, and navigating challenges within a complicated family system or relationship.
I enjoy working with people of all different ages, abilities, identities, sexual orientations, and backgrounds. I incorporate equity and justice within my work. I especially enjoy working with people as they move through different life cycle stages and the ways that this might impact functioning or sense of identity. I have experience working with people living with anxiety, depression, experienced trauma, and navigating challenges within a complicated family system or relationship.
(503) 832-5132 View (503) 832-5132
Photo of Colibri Health and Healing Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Colibri Health and Healing Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Maureen (Mow-den)! I am Latina, born to parents that immigrated from Guatemala and Costa Rica as young adults. I was born in San Diego, CA and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I am a first-generation college graduate and mother of 3 young children. I work with adults and youth ages 12 and up. I am especially passionate about serving the Latino Community and can provide services in Spanish as it is my first language.
Hi, my name is Maureen (Mow-den)! I am Latina, born to parents that immigrated from Guatemala and Costa Rica as young adults. I was born in San Diego, CA and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I am a first-generation college graduate and mother of 3 young children. I work with adults and youth ages 12 and up. I am especially passionate about serving the Latino Community and can provide services in Spanish as it is my first language.
(503) 897-9490 View (503) 897-9490
Photo of Cameron Donley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Cameron Donley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work primarily with individuals in their late teens, 20s, and 30s (early adulthood/quarterlife) who are struggling to find their own unique path in life. I tend to be a good fit for those who: • Are feeling overwhelmed or dehumanized by modern life • Were raised in growth-limiting environments (judgmental family/religious systems, abusive/controlling parenting styles) • Were parentified as children • Are struggling with shame or anxiety • Have unresolved trauma • Are feeling confusion about what they want from their lives • Have more than one cultural identity • Are looking to feel more whole and live a more authentic existence
I work primarily with individuals in their late teens, 20s, and 30s (early adulthood/quarterlife) who are struggling to find their own unique path in life. I tend to be a good fit for those who: • Are feeling overwhelmed or dehumanized by modern life • Were raised in growth-limiting environments (judgmental family/religious systems, abusive/controlling parenting styles) • Were parentified as children • Are struggling with shame or anxiety • Have unresolved trauma • Are feeling confusion about what they want from their lives • Have more than one cultural identity • Are looking to feel more whole and live a more authentic existence
(971) 351-2534 View (971) 351-2534
Photo of Kevin Menasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kevin Menasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based treatment designed to work with individuals and families affected by all specialties and issues listed on my page. Treating challenges like anxiety, depression and OCD, requires a collaborative and supportive process tailored to each individual. With the right treatment it is possible to see significant changes in symptoms so you can spend more time pursing what is most important to you. I offer telehealth based appointments within the states of Oregon, Vermont, and New Hampshire and offer in-person appointments within the Portland, OR area.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based treatment designed to work with individuals and families affected by all specialties and issues listed on my page. Treating challenges like anxiety, depression and OCD, requires a collaborative and supportive process tailored to each individual. With the right treatment it is possible to see significant changes in symptoms so you can spend more time pursing what is most important to you. I offer telehealth based appointments within the states of Oregon, Vermont, and New Hampshire and offer in-person appointments within the Portland, OR area.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.