Therapists in Hudsonville, MI

Photo of Raymond P Herzog, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Raymond P Herzog
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in a Client-centered, Cognitive-Behavioral approach with an emphasis on personal responsibility, accountability, and ownership of problem solving to bring about personal change. I specifically use the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) model. The goal of ACT is acceptance of what is out of personal control, and a commitment to action for life improvement and enrichment. Additionally, mindfulness training including meditation, relaxation, and guided imagery can be used for therapeutic intervention.
I believe in a Client-centered, Cognitive-Behavioral approach with an emphasis on personal responsibility, accountability, and ownership of problem solving to bring about personal change. I specifically use the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) model. The goal of ACT is acceptance of what is out of personal control, and a commitment to action for life improvement and enrichment. Additionally, mindfulness training including meditation, relaxation, and guided imagery can be used for therapeutic intervention.
(616) 414-0954 View (616) 414-0954
Photo of Grace C Wolbrink, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Grace C Wolbrink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you feel stuck from anxiety, overwhelmed, or a lack of clarity, and you want to change but don’t know where to begin, you’re not alone. Your needs are both practical and emotional: strategies to cope with daily stress, support in shifting limiting beliefs, and tools to reconnect with your inner strength. You aim to move forward with confidence and empowerment, breaking through barriers. What you want most is to regain control, gain clarity, and create a clear path toward your dreams—because you believe you deserve more than just surviving—you want to thrive.
If you feel stuck from anxiety, overwhelmed, or a lack of clarity, and you want to change but don’t know where to begin, you’re not alone. Your needs are both practical and emotional: strategies to cope with daily stress, support in shifting limiting beliefs, and tools to reconnect with your inner strength. You aim to move forward with confidence and empowerment, breaking through barriers. What you want most is to regain control, gain clarity, and create a clear path toward your dreams—because you believe you deserve more than just surviving—you want to thrive.
(616) 612-2826 View (616) 612-2826
Photo of Kayla D Droscha - Second Story Counseling, Counselor, LLPC, MA
Second Story Counseling
Counselor, LLPC, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
All of our stories are different. We have parts of our stories that are bright and beautiful, but we also have parts of our stories that are dark and painful. We may not have been able to control the things that have happened in our story but we can control how we respond and how we move forward. We all struggle to navigate through this life. This life is confusing and stressful. I recognize that you are the expert of your life, you know yourself best. I aim to come alongside you not only through the warm seasons but most importantly the dark cold ones we often find ourselves in.
All of our stories are different. We have parts of our stories that are bright and beautiful, but we also have parts of our stories that are dark and painful. We may not have been able to control the things that have happened in our story but we can control how we respond and how we move forward. We all struggle to navigate through this life. This life is confusing and stressful. I recognize that you are the expert of your life, you know yourself best. I aim to come alongside you not only through the warm seasons but most importantly the dark cold ones we often find ourselves in.
(616) 404-3614 View (616) 404-3614
Photo of Julie Postmus, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Julie Postmus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Currently accepting new clients for Thursdays - morning and afternoons available. "You don't have to be fearless. Doing it afraid is just as brave" (Morgan Harper Nichols). Reaching out for help and starting therapy can be a little scary. I would love to create a safe place for you to realize you can be scared and brave at the same time. I love to empower clients and help them to realize that they can do hard things, make changes, and find hope for the future, no matter how risky that hope feels. I am passionate about helping clients name what matters to them and build a life that reflects what matters most to them.
Currently accepting new clients for Thursdays - morning and afternoons available. "You don't have to be fearless. Doing it afraid is just as brave" (Morgan Harper Nichols). Reaching out for help and starting therapy can be a little scary. I would love to create a safe place for you to realize you can be scared and brave at the same time. I love to empower clients and help them to realize that they can do hard things, make changes, and find hope for the future, no matter how risky that hope feels. I am passionate about helping clients name what matters to them and build a life that reflects what matters most to them.
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Photo of Chris Dinh, Counselor, LLC, MA, MBA
Chris Dinh
Counselor, LLC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Life can feel overwhelming, whether you're struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or navigating major transitions. You may feel stuck, unheard, or uncertain about the next steps. If stress, self-doubt, or emotional struggles are making it hard to move forward, know that you don’t have to face them alone.
Life can feel overwhelming, whether you're struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or navigating major transitions. You may feel stuck, unheard, or uncertain about the next steps. If stress, self-doubt, or emotional struggles are making it hard to move forward, know that you don’t have to face them alone.
(616) 636-2983 View (616) 636-2983
Photo of Hannah Allen-Miller, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Hannah Allen-Miller
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
It makes sense that you feel, believe, act and react as you do. Change and growth rarely occur in a straight line, and being mean to yourself really does not help. If you want to believe these statements but are finding it difficult, I would love an opportunity to meet with you. I am a fully licensed psychologist and enjoy working with older adolescents and adults with a wide range of concerns. I believe that therapy occurs within a partnership where together we will make educated decisions about how to approach your goals based on your specific life circumstances, needs, values, and strengths.
It makes sense that you feel, believe, act and react as you do. Change and growth rarely occur in a straight line, and being mean to yourself really does not help. If you want to believe these statements but are finding it difficult, I would love an opportunity to meet with you. I am a fully licensed psychologist and enjoy working with older adolescents and adults with a wide range of concerns. I believe that therapy occurs within a partnership where together we will make educated decisions about how to approach your goals based on your specific life circumstances, needs, values, and strengths.
(616) 201-0922 View (616) 201-0922
Photo of Kelli Postema, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Kelli Postema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
At Hope & Healing Counseling, we believe healing is possible for everyone. Our ideal client is someone seeking a safe, supportive space to explore life’s challenges—whether it's anxiety, trauma, depression, or relationship struggles. You may be feeling overwhelmed or unsure, but know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. Together, we’ll work to understand your needs, build resilience, and create a path toward peace and growth. We're here to help you find hope and healing at your own pace.
At Hope & Healing Counseling, we believe healing is possible for everyone. Our ideal client is someone seeking a safe, supportive space to explore life’s challenges—whether it's anxiety, trauma, depression, or relationship struggles. You may be feeling overwhelmed or unsure, but know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. Together, we’ll work to understand your needs, build resilience, and create a path toward peace and growth. We're here to help you find hope and healing at your own pace.
(616) 201-4960 View (616) 201-4960
Photo of Alexa Sorensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CLSW
Alexa Sorensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CLSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Alexa has spent her time gaining personal and career experience to provide support and empathy to those who could benefit from a seasoned, trauma informed, empathetic, emotional wellness partner. With a masters degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University, experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, Alexa comes to the table as a teammate, mentor, and support person, to help you navigate the twists and turns within this journey we call life.
Alexa has spent her time gaining personal and career experience to provide support and empathy to those who could benefit from a seasoned, trauma informed, empathetic, emotional wellness partner. With a masters degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University, experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, Alexa comes to the table as a teammate, mentor, and support person, to help you navigate the twists and turns within this journey we call life.
(616) 439-2442 View (616) 439-2442
Photo of Kerrie Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Kerrie Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
My practice focuses on the health and wellbeing of first responders primarily, although I am open to taking other clients looking to heal from trauma through EMDR therapy. First Responders Support, LLC is designed to provide mental health services to those who serve in many roles caring for the health and safety of the community, in emergency and crisis situations. First responders who respond to critical incidents and traumatic events are exposed daily to acute stress and trauma. It is the goal of First Responders Support, LLC to offer counseling & trauma therapy through Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing.
My practice focuses on the health and wellbeing of first responders primarily, although I am open to taking other clients looking to heal from trauma through EMDR therapy. First Responders Support, LLC is designed to provide mental health services to those who serve in many roles caring for the health and safety of the community, in emergency and crisis situations. First responders who respond to critical incidents and traumatic events are exposed daily to acute stress and trauma. It is the goal of First Responders Support, LLC to offer counseling & trauma therapy through Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing.
(616) 366-9789 View (616) 366-9789
Photo of Lisa Keskitalo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Lisa Keskitalo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
I provide counseling for everyday people, like yourself. We will use a relational, values-driven approach to help you reclaim joy & start living a life worthy of the calling you have received. Struggles with trauma, anxiety, or toxic ties are addressed in a safe haven for you to heal, set boundaries, and grow self-worth. As you build resilience and healthy bonds, you will be deepening your faith. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing comes reflection, accountability, humility, and courage. It's an honor to journey with you.
I provide counseling for everyday people, like yourself. We will use a relational, values-driven approach to help you reclaim joy & start living a life worthy of the calling you have received. Struggles with trauma, anxiety, or toxic ties are addressed in a safe haven for you to heal, set boundaries, and grow self-worth. As you build resilience and healthy bonds, you will be deepening your faith. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing comes reflection, accountability, humility, and courage. It's an honor to journey with you.
(616) 441-0916 View (616) 441-0916
Photo of Amber Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Amber Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
I specialize in working with individuals ages 14 and older, particularly those who are dealing with anxiety, and depression, and navigating major life changes. In my work, I focus on creating a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, navigating a trauma, or simply trying to manage a period of change in your life, I’m here to help you find clarity and strength. My goal is to empower you with the tools to, not only cope with life’s challenges but to move through them with greater resilience and peace.
I specialize in working with individuals ages 14 and older, particularly those who are dealing with anxiety, and depression, and navigating major life changes. In my work, I focus on creating a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, navigating a trauma, or simply trying to manage a period of change in your life, I’m here to help you find clarity and strength. My goal is to empower you with the tools to, not only cope with life’s challenges but to move through them with greater resilience and peace.
(616) 414-3174 View (616) 414-3174
Photo of Marissa Brill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Marissa Brill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
I specialize in working with kids (ages 3+), teens, young adults, and parents/guardians and have a unique set of skills and knowledge built through working in schools and community mental health to help my clients work through challenges they face in all areas in their life. Whether you're a parent seeking support for yourself and/or your child(ren) or a teen/young adult navigating life's twists and turns, I strive to create a warm, inviting, and judgment-free space where you can feel safe to express yourself, explore your strengths, and engage in a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
I specialize in working with kids (ages 3+), teens, young adults, and parents/guardians and have a unique set of skills and knowledge built through working in schools and community mental health to help my clients work through challenges they face in all areas in their life. Whether you're a parent seeking support for yourself and/or your child(ren) or a teen/young adult navigating life's twists and turns, I strive to create a warm, inviting, and judgment-free space where you can feel safe to express yourself, explore your strengths, and engage in a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
(616) 727-8284 View (616) 727-8284
Photo of Karlyn Markaity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Karlyn Markaity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I became a therapist to guide people to healing and fulfillment, and to help break unhealthy patterns and cycles. I have experience in helping clients across the lifespan with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.
I became a therapist to guide people to healing and fulfillment, and to help break unhealthy patterns and cycles. I have experience in helping clients across the lifespan with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.
(616) 739-3162 View (616) 739-3162
Photo of Amanda Stienstra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Amanda Stienstra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
It is always a privilege to walk alongside someone on their journey of healing and growth and to be able to hold space for them where they can feel seen, heard and valued. Whether you come with symptoms of anxiety or depression, or have experienced a traumatic event that needs a safe place to be processed, our time together can provide a means of care and support as you find your way forward. I believe that healing takes place within authentic, honest relationships where we are reminded that we are never alone. I also believe that it's possible to live a full and meaningful life, even in the midst of pain and suffering.
It is always a privilege to walk alongside someone on their journey of healing and growth and to be able to hold space for them where they can feel seen, heard and valued. Whether you come with symptoms of anxiety or depression, or have experienced a traumatic event that needs a safe place to be processed, our time together can provide a means of care and support as you find your way forward. I believe that healing takes place within authentic, honest relationships where we are reminded that we are never alone. I also believe that it's possible to live a full and meaningful life, even in the midst of pain and suffering.
(616) 504-6378 View (616) 504-6378
Photo of Danika Petroelje, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Danika Petroelje
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
I have walked alongside many who have felt anger, stress, hopelessness, lack of self-confidence, struggles in their relationships, unmotivated in everyday life activities, and anxious about the world they live in. These individuals have all carried with them baggage from their past traumas, tough memories, grief/loss, abuse/neglect, and abandonment to name a few. Some goals being: self-discovery, making sense and meaning of life, releasing anything negative they are holding onto and learning more about their purpose in this world. Healing and freedom is what was intended for everyone, especially everyday people like yourself.
I have walked alongside many who have felt anger, stress, hopelessness, lack of self-confidence, struggles in their relationships, unmotivated in everyday life activities, and anxious about the world they live in. These individuals have all carried with them baggage from their past traumas, tough memories, grief/loss, abuse/neglect, and abandonment to name a few. Some goals being: self-discovery, making sense and meaning of life, releasing anything negative they are holding onto and learning more about their purpose in this world. Healing and freedom is what was intended for everyone, especially everyday people like yourself.
(616) 779-8005 View (616) 779-8005
Photo of Devon Raap, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Devon Raap
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Beginning therapy means different things to different people, but it is often an action of courage, hope, self- care, and self-determination. If this is your first experience with therapy, you might feel a bit nervous or apprehensive. That is normal! I value the importance of highlighting and exploring the unique strengths and resilience in each individual to help encourage hope, confidence, healing, and growth.
Beginning therapy means different things to different people, but it is often an action of courage, hope, self- care, and self-determination. If this is your first experience with therapy, you might feel a bit nervous or apprehensive. That is normal! I value the importance of highlighting and exploring the unique strengths and resilience in each individual to help encourage hope, confidence, healing, and growth.
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Photo of Annika Smeenge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Annika Smeenge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
There is deep bravery in and healing found in vulnerability, and it takes immense strength to seek help. I am honored you are considering allowing me to walk in that with you! Through my own life story I have learned how beautiful and messy life is, and that going it alone makes the beauty less noticeable and the mess more difficult. Together we can work toward a greater sense of peace as you go through life's challenges and build skills to make those challenges less overwhelming.
There is deep bravery in and healing found in vulnerability, and it takes immense strength to seek help. I am honored you are considering allowing me to walk in that with you! Through my own life story I have learned how beautiful and messy life is, and that going it alone makes the beauty less noticeable and the mess more difficult. Together we can work toward a greater sense of peace as you go through life's challenges and build skills to make those challenges less overwhelming.
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Photo of Kendra Utter-David, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Kendra Utter-David
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
I know how intimidating it can be to make your first therapy appointment. It takes a lot of strength and courage to take that first step! Maybe you are here looking at therapy as a “last resort” effort after trying to figure out things alone. You may even know why you feel the way that you do, but you're not sure how to move towards healing. If you’ve found yourself feeling stuck, frustrated, or wondering, “What’s wrong with me?!”, you're not alone. Together, we can explore those feelings and work towards healing. If you aren't sure yet, that's ok-book a free 15 minute call or email me and see if we would be a good fit!
I know how intimidating it can be to make your first therapy appointment. It takes a lot of strength and courage to take that first step! Maybe you are here looking at therapy as a “last resort” effort after trying to figure out things alone. You may even know why you feel the way that you do, but you're not sure how to move towards healing. If you’ve found yourself feeling stuck, frustrated, or wondering, “What’s wrong with me?!”, you're not alone. Together, we can explore those feelings and work towards healing. If you aren't sure yet, that's ok-book a free 15 minute call or email me and see if we would be a good fit!
(616) 737-0262 x672 View (616) 737-0262 x672
Photo of Danielle Fall, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Danielle Fall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I view each person (or couple) as unique and autonomous. I believe everyone has a story of where they have been, where they are, and where they are hoping to go. These stories are complex and I believe everyone has biological, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I like to work with clients to understand how they can get those met in healthy ways and how they can navigate this journey we call life. I also enjoy setting goals with my clients. It's through setting and achieving goals, that you will feel you're getting the most out of our time together.
Hello! I view each person (or couple) as unique and autonomous. I believe everyone has a story of where they have been, where they are, and where they are hoping to go. These stories are complex and I believe everyone has biological, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I like to work with clients to understand how they can get those met in healthy ways and how they can navigate this journey we call life. I also enjoy setting goals with my clients. It's through setting and achieving goals, that you will feel you're getting the most out of our time together.
(616) 253-8871 x518 View (616) 253-8871 x518
Photo of Sophia Leimgruber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Sophia Leimgruber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
My ideal clients are children, teens, and young adults who are facing challenges like trauma, self-esteem struggles, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. They may feel overwhelmed by life’s transitions or disconnected from themselves and others. They seek support in building coping strategies, understanding their emotions, and developing resilience. Together, we will work to navigate these challenges, build self-awareness, and empower them to make lasting, positive changes in their lives.
My ideal clients are children, teens, and young adults who are facing challenges like trauma, self-esteem struggles, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. They may feel overwhelmed by life’s transitions or disconnected from themselves and others. They seek support in building coping strategies, understanding their emotions, and developing resilience. Together, we will work to navigate these challenges, build self-awareness, and empower them to make lasting, positive changes in their lives.
(616) 987-4855 View (616) 987-4855
1

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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hudsonville, MI

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hudsonville, MI who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
90% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
78% Coping Skills
76% Self Esteem
76% Stress
71% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Priority Health
66% Aetna

How Therapists in Hudsonville, MI see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hudsonville?

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.