Therapists in Genesee County, MI

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Photo of Ron Andersen, MA, TLLP
Ron Andersen
MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flint, MI 48532
Beginning my career as a firefighter, paramedic, and EMS instructor, I have been privileged to care for individuals of all ages from all walks of life over the past two decades. I've witnessed patients, peers, and students silently grapple with mental health challenges. The communities I've lived in and served have afforded me many lessons and experiences, and I'm driven to apply that knowledge to mental health care.
Beginning my career as a firefighter, paramedic, and EMS instructor, I have been privileged to care for individuals of all ages from all walks of life over the past two decades. I've witnessed patients, peers, and students silently grapple with mental health challenges. The communities I've lived in and served have afforded me many lessons and experiences, and I'm driven to apply that knowledge to mental health care.
(810) 407-7403 View (810) 407-7403
Photo of Christina Arsenault, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Arsenault
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
How long have you been digging through profiles of therapists? Are you looking for a therapist who is laid back and easy to talk to? Someone who takes their job seriously but allows herself to be human with clients in sessions? I’m not afraid to talk about the “awkward” stuff, the “big” things, or even the “day to day” stuff. I may have a potty mouth, but I also know when to reel it in. My clients know I will call you out on your crap when needed but also walk alongside you through it all too. Let's work together to focus on your goals, to heal from the past, and to build hope for your future.
How long have you been digging through profiles of therapists? Are you looking for a therapist who is laid back and easy to talk to? Someone who takes their job seriously but allows herself to be human with clients in sessions? I’m not afraid to talk about the “awkward” stuff, the “big” things, or even the “day to day” stuff. I may have a potty mouth, but I also know when to reel it in. My clients know I will call you out on your crap when needed but also walk alongside you through it all too. Let's work together to focus on your goals, to heal from the past, and to build hope for your future.
(810) 957-4373 View (810) 957-4373
Photo of Ebony Dunigan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ebony Dunigan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Don't know where to start? Can't get your thoughts to stop going and going? Not sure what to do? Let me help. Therapy is the only place where you get to focus completely on you. I make sure that the focus stays on YOU. I use a relaxed solution-focused approach to help you find relief. You no longer have to figure this out on your own, feel ashamed, or suffer alone. You need the skills, knowledge, and support to get through this. Give me a call. I am here to help.
Don't know where to start? Can't get your thoughts to stop going and going? Not sure what to do? Let me help. Therapy is the only place where you get to focus completely on you. I make sure that the focus stays on YOU. I use a relaxed solution-focused approach to help you find relief. You no longer have to figure this out on your own, feel ashamed, or suffer alone. You need the skills, knowledge, and support to get through this. Give me a call. I am here to help.
(810) 378-4074 View (810) 378-4074
Charles Donald Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Davison, MI 48423
I understand life can be messy and out of balance. I am here to help you chart your course. Whether you struggle with an addiction, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. I would be honored to help you in your journey. As a professional counselor my goal is to help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. For more information check out my website: cdrtherapy.com
I understand life can be messy and out of balance. I am here to help you chart your course. Whether you struggle with an addiction, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. I would be honored to help you in your journey. As a professional counselor my goal is to help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. For more information check out my website: cdrtherapy.com
(810) 634-9911 View (810) 634-9911
Photo of Macauley Daniel O'Connell
Macauley Daniel O'Connell
Licensed Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430
Let’s face it — our world is rapidly changing and can leave us feeling disjointed, isolated, and lost. The constant push for instant gratification and immediate responses can crowd out the space we need to recharge, repair, and relate to one another. I want you to know that you are not alone. As a mental health professional, I see my role as a partner in your journey toward support, self-discovery, and intentional growth. Together, we will confront the realities of your lived experiences, making space for healing and transformation.
Let’s face it — our world is rapidly changing and can leave us feeling disjointed, isolated, and lost. The constant push for instant gratification and immediate responses can crowd out the space we need to recharge, repair, and relate to one another. I want you to know that you are not alone. As a mental health professional, I see my role as a partner in your journey toward support, self-discovery, and intentional growth. Together, we will confront the realities of your lived experiences, making space for healing and transformation.
(734) 896-5835 View (734) 896-5835
Photo of Jordyn Hillary, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordyn Hillary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Life can be challenging, and at times, it may feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing anxiety, stress, depression, or other difficult emotions, therapy offers a safe, supportive space to navigate these experiences. Together, we can work on identifying and managing emotions, building healthy coping skills, processing trauma, and establishing stronger personal and social boundaries. Therapy is about empowering you to create positive change and live a more fulfilling life.
Life can be challenging, and at times, it may feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing anxiety, stress, depression, or other difficult emotions, therapy offers a safe, supportive space to navigate these experiences. Together, we can work on identifying and managing emotions, building healthy coping skills, processing trauma, and establishing stronger personal and social boundaries. Therapy is about empowering you to create positive change and live a more fulfilling life.
(810) 673-5922 View (810) 673-5922
Photo of Mary Ellen Villareal, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Ellen Villareal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Davison, MI 48423
Do you feel overwhelmed and sometimes find everyday tasks difficult? Does it feel challenging to find balance in daily life? Are you feeling that some relationships are more challenging than others and you have a hard time navigating them? Maybe sleep is difficult and you struggle to fall or stay asleep. Does it ever feel like your brain just won't rest? Negativity and the struggles we have might make us feel alone - it can feel very isolating. It becomes exhausting to push things down and pretend it's all okay. You aren't alone and it's okay to ask for help! Let's see if we can find a place where life doesn't feel so hard.
Do you feel overwhelmed and sometimes find everyday tasks difficult? Does it feel challenging to find balance in daily life? Are you feeling that some relationships are more challenging than others and you have a hard time navigating them? Maybe sleep is difficult and you struggle to fall or stay asleep. Does it ever feel like your brain just won't rest? Negativity and the struggles we have might make us feel alone - it can feel very isolating. It becomes exhausting to push things down and pretend it's all okay. You aren't alone and it's okay to ask for help! Let's see if we can find a place where life doesn't feel so hard.
(810) 407-9086 View (810) 407-9086
Photo of Laura Macias, LMSW-C, macro, CCTP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Macias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, macro, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flint, MI 48532
Waitlist for new clients
Living in the PAUSE, PLLC Practice, Authentic, Unapologetic, Self, Evolution is the PAUSE. This is accomplished through an eclectic therapeutic approach to your needs. Learning to Practice the "PAUSE" is a change in the way we move through everyday life. Those with LTP provide treatment in a kind and empathetic manner. Specializing in the treatment of therapists and other helping professionals.
Living in the PAUSE, PLLC Practice, Authentic, Unapologetic, Self, Evolution is the PAUSE. This is accomplished through an eclectic therapeutic approach to your needs. Learning to Practice the "PAUSE" is a change in the way we move through everyday life. Those with LTP provide treatment in a kind and empathetic manner. Specializing in the treatment of therapists and other helping professionals.
(810) 321-4842 View (810) 321-4842
Photo of Bobbi Jo Lowe - Meaningful Conversations Counseling, Pllc, LPC, NCC, MITS, CGCS, Counselor
Meaningful Conversations Counseling, Pllc
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MITS, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swartz Creek, MI 48473
We have a team of therapists who have years of experience working with children through adults. Our therapists are skilled at using varying approaches. Art and mindfulness practices are sometimes useful, especially in areas of reducing anxiety related issues. We have had many years of experience as a school counselors/inpatient therapists and are easily able to bridge the home/school therapeutic continuum. I have recently added to our team due to overwhelming demand. For in person work, we have an inviting office including a Play/Art room.
We have a team of therapists who have years of experience working with children through adults. Our therapists are skilled at using varying approaches. Art and mindfulness practices are sometimes useful, especially in areas of reducing anxiety related issues. We have had many years of experience as a school counselors/inpatient therapists and are easily able to bridge the home/school therapeutic continuum. I have recently added to our team due to overwhelming demand. For in person work, we have an inviting office including a Play/Art room.
(810) 546-3403 View (810) 546-3403
Photo of Lauren Lay, MA, LLP, MLP
Lauren Lay
MA, LLP, MLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fenton, MI 48430
Our lives and relationships can be demanding, ever-changing, and challenging. It’s not always easy to understand or move through difficult emotions. Struggling doesn’t mean you are weak or inadequate—it’s part of being human. As a managing associate with Hutchison & Associates, I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety and relationship issues. My approach is grounded in humanistic, existential, and emotion-focused therapy, with attachment theory at its core. My office, located on a serene private estate in Fenton/Tyrone Township, offers a peaceful and safe space for your journey of healing and growth.
Our lives and relationships can be demanding, ever-changing, and challenging. It’s not always easy to understand or move through difficult emotions. Struggling doesn’t mean you are weak or inadequate—it’s part of being human. As a managing associate with Hutchison & Associates, I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety and relationship issues. My approach is grounded in humanistic, existential, and emotion-focused therapy, with attachment theory at its core. My office, located on a serene private estate in Fenton/Tyrone Township, offers a peaceful and safe space for your journey of healing and growth.
(248) 218-9618 View (248) 218-9618
Photo of Earl E Hocquard, MA, LLP
Earl E Hocquard
MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fenton, MI 48430
Some of my professional expertise include Christian counseling, depression & anxiety, stress/anger management, OCD, ADHD, marital, premarital, assertiveness and self-esteem, grief and loss, blended family, family, recovery from divorce, recovery from infidelity, abuse recovery, communication and listening skills, guilt, PTSD, and more. I see individuals, couples, groups, children, teens, adults, families.
Some of my professional expertise include Christian counseling, depression & anxiety, stress/anger management, OCD, ADHD, marital, premarital, assertiveness and self-esteem, grief and loss, blended family, family, recovery from divorce, recovery from infidelity, abuse recovery, communication and listening skills, guilt, PTSD, and more. I see individuals, couples, groups, children, teens, adults, families.
(231) 225-9485 View (231) 225-9485
Photo of Patsy Colleen Essenmacher, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patsy Colleen Essenmacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fenton, MI 48430
I have over thirty years of experience treating people of all ages who struggle with problems ranging from depression and anxiety to conflictual relationships and grief. I worked 8 yrs exclusively with survivors of physical, sexual and emotional trauma. My early training is in CBT and behavior modification. Therefore, I teach skills to help with anger and stress management, social anxiety, phobias, addictions, child management and ADHD. I have a strong bias towards children, helping parents learn from their own childhood to make a positive difference for their children.
I have over thirty years of experience treating people of all ages who struggle with problems ranging from depression and anxiety to conflictual relationships and grief. I worked 8 yrs exclusively with survivors of physical, sexual and emotional trauma. My early training is in CBT and behavior modification. Therefore, I teach skills to help with anger and stress management, social anxiety, phobias, addictions, child management and ADHD. I have a strong bias towards children, helping parents learn from their own childhood to make a positive difference for their children.
(810) 347-2289 View (810) 347-2289
Photo of Emily Merlo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Merlo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Everyone wants to live a life with self-compassion and strong connections to those they care about most, but sometimes we need some help along the way. Therapy can be intimidating, so my number one priority is to provide an environment of safety and trust. For me, the road to healing begins when we recognize that we are each our own worst critic, and that it is okay to not be perfect all the time. I strongly believe that therapy is a collaborative experience, and my main goal is for you to leave each session feeling seen and accepted.
Everyone wants to live a life with self-compassion and strong connections to those they care about most, but sometimes we need some help along the way. Therapy can be intimidating, so my number one priority is to provide an environment of safety and trust. For me, the road to healing begins when we recognize that we are each our own worst critic, and that it is okay to not be perfect all the time. I strongly believe that therapy is a collaborative experience, and my main goal is for you to leave each session feeling seen and accepted.
(810) 277-9541 View (810) 277-9541
Photo of Amy Thompson - Amy Thompson (Illuminate Therapy), MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Thompson (Illuminate Therapy)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430
As a counselor, my goal is to help people of all ages reach their full potential. I know that people pursue counseling for many different reasons and because no two individuals are the same, each person is as unique as the situations they encounter. Because there are many variables that affect people individually, strategies for the therapeutic relationship will differ on a case by case basis. I will use a variety of evidence-based counseling techniques and principles to help you in your counseling journey.
As a counselor, my goal is to help people of all ages reach their full potential. I know that people pursue counseling for many different reasons and because no two individuals are the same, each person is as unique as the situations they encounter. Because there are many variables that affect people individually, strategies for the therapeutic relationship will differ on a case by case basis. I will use a variety of evidence-based counseling techniques and principles to help you in your counseling journey.
(517) 940-8207 View (517) 940-8207
Jennifer Renee Skwirsk
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
Burton, MI 48509
I believe that every person is deserving of a life where they can live in their truth with authenticity and dignity, regardless of physical or mental ability. I work with adolescents and adults, providing individual and group therapy services to cope with a broad range of mental health symptoms, including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and needs associated with an LGBTQIA+ identity.
I believe that every person is deserving of a life where they can live in their truth with authenticity and dignity, regardless of physical or mental ability. I work with adolescents and adults, providing individual and group therapy services to cope with a broad range of mental health symptoms, including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and needs associated with an LGBTQIA+ identity.
(810) 957-8029 View (810) 957-8029
Photo of Deirdre Michelle Scott, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deirdre Michelle Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flint, MI 48532
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor privileged to help trauma survivors overcome barriers which prohibit experiencing life at its best. My work is holistic and client centered. I’m trained in and use a variety of theories and interventions to facilitate healing and personal goal achievement to include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Therapy is hard but rewarding work, it’s a commitment to yourself to change the trajectory of your life’s journey. I applaud you for taking the first step, I’ll meet you for the next and be with you as you heal.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor privileged to help trauma survivors overcome barriers which prohibit experiencing life at its best. My work is holistic and client centered. I’m trained in and use a variety of theories and interventions to facilitate healing and personal goal achievement to include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Therapy is hard but rewarding work, it’s a commitment to yourself to change the trajectory of your life’s journey. I applaud you for taking the first step, I’ll meet you for the next and be with you as you heal.
(810) 597-9331 View (810) 597-9331
Photo of Tariya Sanders, BSW, MPA, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tariya Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MPA, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you having a hard time processing life’s changes? Are you feeling overwhelmed? There is nothing wrong with seeking out help. Unapologetically! When we have a broken bone, we go to the doctor. If are car needs work, we take it to a mechanic. Same with our mental health, if something is off, we should seek out help. There's nothing wrong with seeking out assistance to process life's challenges. I want my clients to be the best version of themselves and to have that listening ear in a non-judgmental safe space. And this is where I come into play.
Are you having a hard time processing life’s changes? Are you feeling overwhelmed? There is nothing wrong with seeking out help. Unapologetically! When we have a broken bone, we go to the doctor. If are car needs work, we take it to a mechanic. Same with our mental health, if something is off, we should seek out help. There's nothing wrong with seeking out assistance to process life's challenges. I want my clients to be the best version of themselves and to have that listening ear in a non-judgmental safe space. And this is where I come into play.
(810) 425-7157 View (810) 425-7157
Photo of Duaa Haggag, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Duaa Haggag
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Burton, MI 48509
Waitlist for new clients
You never thought that raising a child would be so difficult or overwhelming! You want to connect with your kid but feel distant and out of touch. Maybe there's a cultural gap, or maybe your teen is dealing with mental health issues that you find hard to understand or know what to do. Your strong-willed child may be challenging their school and home environments, resisting you every step of the way. Perhaps your adolescent is detached and unmotivated and you wish to help them find their spark. You may feel under-appreciated or lonely in your struggles and find yourself repeating actions you promised you would never do as a parent.
You never thought that raising a child would be so difficult or overwhelming! You want to connect with your kid but feel distant and out of touch. Maybe there's a cultural gap, or maybe your teen is dealing with mental health issues that you find hard to understand or know what to do. Your strong-willed child may be challenging their school and home environments, resisting you every step of the way. Perhaps your adolescent is detached and unmotivated and you wish to help them find their spark. You may feel under-appreciated or lonely in your struggles and find yourself repeating actions you promised you would never do as a parent.
(810) 644-1465 View (810) 644-1465
Photo of Theresa K. Cooke, MA, LMSW, LLP
Theresa K. Cooke
MA, LMSW, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
In this ever changing world, let me assist you in creating the best version of yourself. To find the strength and insight to over come what is behind you and reach your goals in front of you. My name is Theresa K. Cooke and I am the founder of FACES, INC. I have been practicing since 1982 and I bring to your individual sessions 30+ years of experience through education, training, certification and in working with over 3000 patients.
In this ever changing world, let me assist you in creating the best version of yourself. To find the strength and insight to over come what is behind you and reach your goals in front of you. My name is Theresa K. Cooke and I am the founder of FACES, INC. I have been practicing since 1982 and I bring to your individual sessions 30+ years of experience through education, training, certification and in working with over 3000 patients.
(810) 620-8012 x810513 View (810) 620-8012 x810513
Photo of Justine Seeley, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justine Seeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430
I believe in the power of change, acceptance, and growth when individuals are provided with the necessary resources, support, and tools. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Before joining the Integrated Behavioral Health team, I worked as an inpatient social worker at the Veteran Affairs Hospital and as a therapist in a private practice setting. I use a holistic approach to create an optimal environment for clients to express their thoughts and feelings while effectively tackling the challenges they may be facing.
I believe in the power of change, acceptance, and growth when individuals are provided with the necessary resources, support, and tools. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Before joining the Integrated Behavioral Health team, I worked as an inpatient social worker at the Veteran Affairs Hospital and as a therapist in a private practice setting. I use a holistic approach to create an optimal environment for clients to express their thoughts and feelings while effectively tackling the challenges they may be facing.
(810) 442-4767 View (810) 442-4767
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See more therapy options for Genesee County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Genesee County, MI

400+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Genesee County, MI who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
69% Trauma and PTSD
67% Relationship Issues
66% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Aetna
69% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Genesee County, MI see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Genesee 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.