Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Karlee Coffey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Karlee Coffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, LMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Just as no two people are affected the exact same way by depression and anxiety, there is no “one size fits all” treatment. What works for one person might not work for another. My passion in counseling is aimed at clinical mental health. Suffering with anxiety, depression, trauma and ptsd can range in severity and symptoms, requiring different interventions. I am eclectic in my approach so that I can meet the client where they need guidance the most. Coming from a strengths-based approach allows me to help the client discover the positive attributes in a situation rather than the negative.
Just as no two people are affected the exact same way by depression and anxiety, there is no “one size fits all” treatment. What works for one person might not work for another. My passion in counseling is aimed at clinical mental health. Suffering with anxiety, depression, trauma and ptsd can range in severity and symptoms, requiring different interventions. I am eclectic in my approach so that I can meet the client where they need guidance the most. Coming from a strengths-based approach allows me to help the client discover the positive attributes in a situation rather than the negative.
(503) 832-6677 View (503) 832-6677
Photo of Trish L Gemulla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Trish L Gemulla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
(503) 676-5259 View (503) 676-5259
Photo of Carla Canfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Carla Canfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
*Practice and waitlist currently full* If you have been considering couples therapy, I encourage you to reach out. The problems you face can seem overwhelming, but the type of couples therapy I practice (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy) is very effective at helping you achieve the loving, trusting relationship you deserve. Therapy with me is nonjudgmental, compassionate and practical. I look for destructive patterns in your relationship and help you find your way back to one another.
*Practice and waitlist currently full* If you have been considering couples therapy, I encourage you to reach out. The problems you face can seem overwhelming, but the type of couples therapy I practice (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy) is very effective at helping you achieve the loving, trusting relationship you deserve. Therapy with me is nonjudgmental, compassionate and practical. I look for destructive patterns in your relationship and help you find your way back to one another.
(503) 446-6228 View (503) 446-6228
Photo of Sarah Rushen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Sarah Rushen
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
As a BIPOC clinician, I specialize in working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I also have extensive experience working with individuals recovering from trauma, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
As a BIPOC clinician, I specialize in working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I also have extensive experience working with individuals recovering from trauma, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
(971) 318-6349 View (971) 318-6349
Photo of Isaac Rider, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Isaac Rider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Hi there! Starting your healing journey can be a daunting process, and you have already taken the tremendous first step of searching for a therapist. I strive to create a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to navigate concerns related to anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, life transitions, and identity issues. Additionally, I am a BIPOC and queer therapist and enjoy working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Hi there! Starting your healing journey can be a daunting process, and you have already taken the tremendous first step of searching for a therapist. I strive to create a therapeutic space where you feel empowered to navigate concerns related to anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, life transitions, and identity issues. Additionally, I am a BIPOC and queer therapist and enjoy working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ clients.
(503) 212-0331 View (503) 212-0331
Photo of Katy Buddeke, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Katy Buddeke
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
The world we live in does not set us up to intuitively connect with ourselves. The demands of productivity can erode our most important relationship: the one we cultivate with ourselves. Maybe you've arrived face-to-face with a new or unfamiliar part of yourself. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, lonely, anxious, depressed, unworthy, or not (fill in the blank) enough. You might be someone seeking support in navigating relational difficulties, past or present. Wherever you’ve found yourself, it can help having someone beside you as you begin to make sense of the push and pull of life's tides.
The world we live in does not set us up to intuitively connect with ourselves. The demands of productivity can erode our most important relationship: the one we cultivate with ourselves. Maybe you've arrived face-to-face with a new or unfamiliar part of yourself. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, lonely, anxious, depressed, unworthy, or not (fill in the blank) enough. You might be someone seeking support in navigating relational difficulties, past or present. Wherever you’ve found yourself, it can help having someone beside you as you begin to make sense of the push and pull of life's tides.
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Photo of Tracy Braden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Tracy Braden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
If you are struggling you don't have to be. I can help you figure out how to let go of what's got you stuck and how to find more joy in your life. Clients dealing with stress, lack of focus, emotional issues, feelings of hopeless, and self defeating attitudes find new ways of thinking and being by working with me. Interested in using insurance? I am paneled with BCBS, UBH, MODA, Aetna, Cigna, and Pacific Source.
If you are struggling you don't have to be. I can help you figure out how to let go of what's got you stuck and how to find more joy in your life. Clients dealing with stress, lack of focus, emotional issues, feelings of hopeless, and self defeating attitudes find new ways of thinking and being by working with me. Interested in using insurance? I am paneled with BCBS, UBH, MODA, Aetna, Cigna, and Pacific Source.
(971) 274-5954 View (971) 274-5954
Photo of Sarah Mustafa, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Sarah Mustafa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am delighted that you found the courage to consider what could be your first brave step to seeing a different perspective for change in your life. I love working with a wide range of people, including depression & anxiety, sex & relationship challenges, trauma, racial idenitiy, family conflict, and stress management. I like for potential clients to know that therapy will be challenging but hopefully rewarding. I hope to co-create an inviting space for you to freely express yourself & explore the depths of your emotions. My motto as your therapist is to be your co-pilot to help support you achieve the life goals you desire.
I am delighted that you found the courage to consider what could be your first brave step to seeing a different perspective for change in your life. I love working with a wide range of people, including depression & anxiety, sex & relationship challenges, trauma, racial idenitiy, family conflict, and stress management. I like for potential clients to know that therapy will be challenging but hopefully rewarding. I hope to co-create an inviting space for you to freely express yourself & explore the depths of your emotions. My motto as your therapist is to be your co-pilot to help support you achieve the life goals you desire.
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Photo of Britt Deely, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Britt Deely
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have an interest in targeting anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues? The desire to heal from distressing experiences or trauma that have had an impact on your relationships, employment, health, and wellness? We will work together utilizing a variety of treatment modalities to move beyond your past so you can start living each day with a renewed sense of purpose and harmony.
Do you have an interest in targeting anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues? The desire to heal from distressing experiences or trauma that have had an impact on your relationships, employment, health, and wellness? We will work together utilizing a variety of treatment modalities to move beyond your past so you can start living each day with a renewed sense of purpose and harmony.
(971) 306-5131 View (971) 306-5131
Photo of Julianna Waters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Julianna Waters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist can be tricky business. It's all in the match. Honest, clearly communicated feedback, compassion for your difficulties, sound clinical skills and well over 20 years of clinical experience dealing with depression, anxiety, social isolation, grief/loss, relationship problems, work issues and co-occurring medical/emotional conditions are what I have to offer you. Our work will consist of exploring your therapeutic goals, working to understand how you're current and past experiences are impacting your life then practicing changes that will move you forward. We will be a team.
Finding the right therapist can be tricky business. It's all in the match. Honest, clearly communicated feedback, compassion for your difficulties, sound clinical skills and well over 20 years of clinical experience dealing with depression, anxiety, social isolation, grief/loss, relationship problems, work issues and co-occurring medical/emotional conditions are what I have to offer you. Our work will consist of exploring your therapeutic goals, working to understand how you're current and past experiences are impacting your life then practicing changes that will move you forward. We will be a team.
(458) 217-6118 View (458) 217-6118
Photo of Rachel Archer, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Rachel Archer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
As a clinical psychologist, I work with adults on general mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, body image issues, relationship issues, family-of-origin matters, women's issues, identity development, and life transitions. My therapeutic style focuses on interpersonal relationships, with the goal of creating or maintaining meaningful bonds with others and addressing chronic, painful, unmet needs. I utilize emotion focused therapy, attachment theory, and CBT/ACT strategies to address your concerns.
As a clinical psychologist, I work with adults on general mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, body image issues, relationship issues, family-of-origin matters, women's issues, identity development, and life transitions. My therapeutic style focuses on interpersonal relationships, with the goal of creating or maintaining meaningful bonds with others and addressing chronic, painful, unmet needs. I utilize emotion focused therapy, attachment theory, and CBT/ACT strategies to address your concerns.
(971) 307-9574 View (971) 307-9574
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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Photo of Wendy Forrester, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Wendy Forrester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Does life seem too challenging and uncertain? Awake at 3am unable to quiet your mind. Overwhelmed by anxiety? Immobilized by depression? Possibly you abandon your feelings to defer to others. You may be outwardly successful yet that doesn't ease your inner distress. A voice in your mind reminds you of perceived shortcomings leaving you feeling inadequate. Discouraged from trying to move forward but feel stuck? Whatever you're experiencing you don’t have to face it alone. You’re a woman seeking a deeper understanding of yourself—in relationships, beyond responsibilities & self-defeating patterns which create barriers to intimacy.
Does life seem too challenging and uncertain? Awake at 3am unable to quiet your mind. Overwhelmed by anxiety? Immobilized by depression? Possibly you abandon your feelings to defer to others. You may be outwardly successful yet that doesn't ease your inner distress. A voice in your mind reminds you of perceived shortcomings leaving you feeling inadequate. Discouraged from trying to move forward but feel stuck? Whatever you're experiencing you don’t have to face it alone. You’re a woman seeking a deeper understanding of yourself—in relationships, beyond responsibilities & self-defeating patterns which create barriers to intimacy.
(971) 251-1173 View (971) 251-1173
Photo of Ally Willis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Ally Willis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Now Accepting New Clients! You are taking the time to make mental health a priority, and that is something to be proud of. I look forward to walking beside you while you navigate life while working towards your goals and aspirations. I think about your problems from a holistic perspective because I believe that everyone contributes to the problem. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming roadblocks along the way.
Now Accepting New Clients! You are taking the time to make mental health a priority, and that is something to be proud of. I look forward to walking beside you while you navigate life while working towards your goals and aspirations. I think about your problems from a holistic perspective because I believe that everyone contributes to the problem. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming roadblocks along the way.
(503) 212-6351 View (503) 212-6351
Photo of Kawa Kuller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kawa Kuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people who identify as BIPOC, trans, enby and LGBTQIA+ . You don’t fit into society’s norms and maybe you don’t even want to. There can be great joy and pride in being different, but difference can also be met with oppression. I know what it’s like to feel othered, how it can effect self esteem, your ability to connect with others, and can lead to trauma, isolation, sadness, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, hopelessness and confusion. I am kink positive, body positive, and support polyamorous and ENM relationships . To work together, please fill out this form: www.nurtureabundance.com/contact-us
I specialize in working with people who identify as BIPOC, trans, enby and LGBTQIA+ . You don’t fit into society’s norms and maybe you don’t even want to. There can be great joy and pride in being different, but difference can also be met with oppression. I know what it’s like to feel othered, how it can effect self esteem, your ability to connect with others, and can lead to trauma, isolation, sadness, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, hopelessness and confusion. I am kink positive, body positive, and support polyamorous and ENM relationships . To work together, please fill out this form: www.nurtureabundance.com/contact-us
(503) 563-2968 View (503) 563-2968
Photo of Meghan Opbroek, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Meghan Opbroek
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! My name is Meghan (She/They). I work with folks seeking freedom and relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, and whatever else is getting in the way of you living the life you want. I've worked with folks exploring personality, identity, sexuality, relationships, motivation, body image, the multitude of gender representations, fear of self or others, and exploration of identity. I believe people become who they are in relation to others. Understanding yourself as a person, parent, child, friend, partner, or any other identity is key to happiness and well-being. I'm happy to discuss more in a consultation.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Meghan (She/They). I work with folks seeking freedom and relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, and whatever else is getting in the way of you living the life you want. I've worked with folks exploring personality, identity, sexuality, relationships, motivation, body image, the multitude of gender representations, fear of self or others, and exploration of identity. I believe people become who they are in relation to others. Understanding yourself as a person, parent, child, friend, partner, or any other identity is key to happiness and well-being. I'm happy to discuss more in a consultation.
(971) 314-6726 View (971) 314-6726
Photo of Mary Thornburg Krug, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Mary Thornburg Krug
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Are you frequently bothered by memories that just won't go away? When you face something new in life, are you afraid you can't handle it? Do you beat yourself up over mistakes that you have made? Do you find it difficult to say No to a request, or to ask for help from others? Do you feel burned out and frustrated with family or work relationships? Many of us have gone the route of self-help books, but these have limited value since they aren't tailored to our individual lives. My work with you is.
Are you frequently bothered by memories that just won't go away? When you face something new in life, are you afraid you can't handle it? Do you beat yourself up over mistakes that you have made? Do you find it difficult to say No to a request, or to ask for help from others? Do you feel burned out and frustrated with family or work relationships? Many of us have gone the route of self-help books, but these have limited value since they aren't tailored to our individual lives. My work with you is.
(503) 487-0140 View (503) 487-0140
Photo of Chanda V Haynes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Chanda V Haynes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Our trauma can leave us with feelings of shame, resentment, and guilt. When we don't take the time for our own recovery and healing, we can find ourselves becoming stressed and overwhelmed. We become unrecognizable to ourselves and disconnected from our own needs. Our physical health is impacted. We experience spiraling thoughts and an inability to relax. Our anger and sadness are easily triggered. We sabotage our important relationships. We lack trust and fear intimacy. We find ourselves feeling undeserving of the goodness life has to offer.
Our trauma can leave us with feelings of shame, resentment, and guilt. When we don't take the time for our own recovery and healing, we can find ourselves becoming stressed and overwhelmed. We become unrecognizable to ourselves and disconnected from our own needs. Our physical health is impacted. We experience spiraling thoughts and an inability to relax. Our anger and sadness are easily triggered. We sabotage our important relationships. We lack trust and fear intimacy. We find ourselves feeling undeserving of the goodness life has to offer.
(503) 212-9961 View (503) 212-9961
Photo of Merrill Weyerhaeuser, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Merrill Weyerhaeuser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with adults and older adolescents who are interested in reflecting on their personal experience in order to deepen their lives. I appreciate how risky it can feel when delving into this kind of process; I also know how profound such exploration can be. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can provide a space to enhance one's understanding, compassion and emotional flexibility.
I enjoy working with adults and older adolescents who are interested in reflecting on their personal experience in order to deepen their lives. I appreciate how risky it can feel when delving into this kind of process; I also know how profound such exploration can be. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can provide a space to enhance one's understanding, compassion and emotional flexibility.
(503) 883-8092 View (503) 883-8092
Photo of The Couples Clinic of Portland , Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
The Couples Clinic of Portland
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
At The Couples Clinic of Portland, helping people is our passion. We get great satisfaction in helping people improve their lives and relationships. We know from personal experience how restorative and empowering good counseling can be. We are here to collaboratively help you work through whatever you are struggling with, and find your true, empowered self. We also know how difficult it is to find a therapist who has advanced training in couples counseling. As we are dedicated to keeping abreast of the most cutting edge techniques, you are certain to find help here for yourself and for your relationship.
At The Couples Clinic of Portland, helping people is our passion. We get great satisfaction in helping people improve their lives and relationships. We know from personal experience how restorative and empowering good counseling can be. We are here to collaboratively help you work through whatever you are struggling with, and find your true, empowered self. We also know how difficult it is to find a therapist who has advanced training in couples counseling. As we are dedicated to keeping abreast of the most cutting edge techniques, you are certain to find help here for yourself and for your relationship.
(503) 866-0299 View (503) 866-0299

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

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% 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.