Therapists in Southfield, MI

Photo of Eric B Scott - First Step Counseling , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
First Step Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076
As a therapist, with over 20 years of experience, assisting individuals with the healing process is a privilege & pleasure. First Step Counseling’s aim is to provide a high quality of service that enhances social & emotional wellbeing. First Step is committed to providing the mental health support needed to maximize one’s full potential, embracing a healthy perspective on past actions and future choices. Be it dealing with a major life transition (death, divorce, retirement) or just trying to find one’s voice in life, through evidence-based practices, First Step is here to provide a competent and supportive hand.
As a therapist, with over 20 years of experience, assisting individuals with the healing process is a privilege & pleasure. First Step Counseling’s aim is to provide a high quality of service that enhances social & emotional wellbeing. First Step is committed to providing the mental health support needed to maximize one’s full potential, embracing a healthy perspective on past actions and future choices. Be it dealing with a major life transition (death, divorce, retirement) or just trying to find one’s voice in life, through evidence-based practices, First Step is here to provide a competent and supportive hand.
(248) 986-2851 View (248) 986-2851
Photo of Maya Cobb - Dear Good Girl, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dear Good Girl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLC
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48075
We specialize in working with women who struggle with being the Good Girl. A "Good Girl" can be the current role of a child/adolescent or the Inner Child of an adult who filled this role growing up. She has a strong desire to be validated, valued, and approved of by others. She seeks this approval by meeting all expectations to the point of suppressing parts of their identity and emotions, conforming, and/or prioritizing the needs of others over self. The Good Girl is constantly pouring from an empty cup because she has been taught that this is how she will receive love.
We specialize in working with women who struggle with being the Good Girl. A "Good Girl" can be the current role of a child/adolescent or the Inner Child of an adult who filled this role growing up. She has a strong desire to be validated, valued, and approved of by others. She seeks this approval by meeting all expectations to the point of suppressing parts of their identity and emotions, conforming, and/or prioritizing the needs of others over self. The Good Girl is constantly pouring from an empty cup because she has been taught that this is how she will receive love.
(248) 927-2290 View (248) 927-2290
Photo of Beth Sharlow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Sharlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48034
Beth Sharlow is a clinical social worker who has been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a BA in psychology and from Eastern Michigan University with an MSW. Her educational and professional experience has been in the fields of mental health, chemical dependency , crisis services, case management, and administration. Beth Uses a variety of approaches with her clients, including Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness-based CBT, Solution-focused therapy, and Trauma therapy.
Beth Sharlow is a clinical social worker who has been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a BA in psychology and from Eastern Michigan University with an MSW. Her educational and professional experience has been in the fields of mental health, chemical dependency , crisis services, case management, and administration. Beth Uses a variety of approaches with her clients, including Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness-based CBT, Solution-focused therapy, and Trauma therapy.
(248) 845-1766 View (248) 845-1766
Photo of Johanna Champagne, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Johanna Champagne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Let's face it: seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task. One of the most important parts of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. What I offer is non-judgmental, validating, and genuine. I offer a space for you to explore and express your emotions, ideas, and behaviors free of judgements or bias. We will work together to come up with solutions and skills to help you feel better and find balance, and hope. It is my belief that everyone can find meaning and fulfillment in their lives, no matter how difficult it may seem.
Let's face it: seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task. One of the most important parts of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. What I offer is non-judgmental, validating, and genuine. I offer a space for you to explore and express your emotions, ideas, and behaviors free of judgements or bias. We will work together to come up with solutions and skills to help you feel better and find balance, and hope. It is my belief that everyone can find meaning and fulfillment in their lives, no matter how difficult it may seem.
(248) 292-3298 View (248) 292-3298
Photo of Tasha Turner, LPC, CCTP, CRMST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tasha Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CRMST
Verified Verified
Online Only
**NOW OFFERING EMDR for TEENS and ADULTS** I see clients with varying concerns; depression, anxiety, sadness, high stress, trauma, and the list goes on. For some they've been struggling for a long time, for others these struggles are new, and for others they don't know when IT started but they just know right now they aren't their best. Taking a trauma-informed and resilience-building approach, we work with the body and mind to transform hurt to healing.
**NOW OFFERING EMDR for TEENS and ADULTS** I see clients with varying concerns; depression, anxiety, sadness, high stress, trauma, and the list goes on. For some they've been struggling for a long time, for others these struggles are new, and for others they don't know when IT started but they just know right now they aren't their best. Taking a trauma-informed and resilience-building approach, we work with the body and mind to transform hurt to healing.
(248) 218-9867 View (248) 218-9867
Photo of Dr. Latoya Taylor, PhD, LLP
Dr. Latoya Taylor
PhD, LLP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Making a choice to attend therapy is never easy. One of the bravest things you can do is to understand your own story, pain, and trauma. I believe many people suffer in silence and I want to be the first person to tell you—I’m ready to listen and walk with you on your journey. My goal is to create a safe space as we collaborate to address your presenting concerns, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, adjustment concerns, and/or trauma. Life often takes us on a difficult road leading us to find new ways to manage, work through, or create new options.
Making a choice to attend therapy is never easy. One of the bravest things you can do is to understand your own story, pain, and trauma. I believe many people suffer in silence and I want to be the first person to tell you—I’m ready to listen and walk with you on your journey. My goal is to create a safe space as we collaborate to address your presenting concerns, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, adjustment concerns, and/or trauma. Life often takes us on a difficult road leading us to find new ways to manage, work through, or create new options.
(248) 621-9672 View (248) 621-9672
Photo of Cate Spinney, LMSW, CAADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cate Spinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48034
I believe therapy is a partnership based on trust, empathy, and authenticity. I adopt a client-centered and strengths-based approach, and tailor my interventions to suit each person's unique needs and circumstances. I collaborate closely with clients to empower them on their path to emotional wellness, recovery, and healing from trauma. My 15 years of training and experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma, LGBTQ+ identity, and addiction. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their identities, heal from past experiences, and build resilience.
I believe therapy is a partnership based on trust, empathy, and authenticity. I adopt a client-centered and strengths-based approach, and tailor my interventions to suit each person's unique needs and circumstances. I collaborate closely with clients to empower them on their path to emotional wellness, recovery, and healing from trauma. My 15 years of training and experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma, LGBTQ+ identity, and addiction. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their identities, heal from past experiences, and build resilience.
(313) 631-8682 View (313) 631-8682
Photo of Dr. Kelley Mays, PhD, LLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Kelley Mays
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, LLMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48034
As a therapist, building trust with my clients is at the heart of my practice. I understand the courage it takes to seek support and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. My commitment to you is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, where trust is the foundation for growth and positive change.
As a therapist, building trust with my clients is at the heart of my practice. I understand the courage it takes to seek support and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. My commitment to you is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, where trust is the foundation for growth and positive change.
(248) 617-0648 View (248) 617-0648
Photo of Colleen Tavor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Colleen Tavor
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076
I work with adults, couples, adolescents who are struggling with relationship issues, anger management, PTSD, pain management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. My passion is to support you in your journey of self-understanding and emotional healing. We will work together to identify blocking beliefs and unhealthy coping strategies that keep you "stuck" from becoming who you were meant to be and living your life fully. I've seen countless clients improve their lives and relationships. I believe you can too. You are not alone.
I work with adults, couples, adolescents who are struggling with relationship issues, anger management, PTSD, pain management, domestic violence, sexual abuse, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. My passion is to support you in your journey of self-understanding and emotional healing. We will work together to identify blocking beliefs and unhealthy coping strategies that keep you "stuck" from becoming who you were meant to be and living your life fully. I've seen countless clients improve their lives and relationships. I believe you can too. You are not alone.
(248) 817-8307 View (248) 817-8307
Photo of Eshtar Oraha, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eshtar Oraha
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
If you’re unsure about starting therapy, you’re not alone—and I’d love to explore that journey with you. Together, we can unpack different aspects of your life, put a name to what’s happening, and build a deeper understanding of your experiences. My goal is to help you make sense of what’s going on so you can begin to take meaningful steps toward resolution and growth. Let’s navigate this path together, one step at a time. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all—your story is unique, and so should be the support you receive.
If you’re unsure about starting therapy, you’re not alone—and I’d love to explore that journey with you. Together, we can unpack different aspects of your life, put a name to what’s happening, and build a deeper understanding of your experiences. My goal is to help you make sense of what’s going on so you can begin to take meaningful steps toward resolution and growth. Let’s navigate this path together, one step at a time. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all—your story is unique, and so should be the support you receive.
(313) 251-0505 View (313) 251-0505
Photo of Andre Charley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andre Charley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48033
We provide quality services to others that will enhance their lives by developing essential social, emotional, behavioral, and daily living skills in order for them to reach their full potential in a challenging society and within their family system. Ms. Anitra Rice, LLMFT brings a wealth of experience and is passionate about destigmatizing therapy and mental health in minority communities. She brings compassion and empathy to her treatment. Mr. Shannon Hawkins, LLMSW is passionate about working with the teenage population.
We provide quality services to others that will enhance their lives by developing essential social, emotional, behavioral, and daily living skills in order for them to reach their full potential in a challenging society and within their family system. Ms. Anitra Rice, LLMFT brings a wealth of experience and is passionate about destigmatizing therapy and mental health in minority communities. She brings compassion and empathy to her treatment. Mr. Shannon Hawkins, LLMSW is passionate about working with the teenage population.
(248) 609-1930 View (248) 609-1930
Photo of Vikkie Tucker, LMSW, ACSW
Vikkie Tucker
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, ACSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
When you read these words, you may be considering therapy at this time in your life. You might think something is wrong due to anxiety or sadness. On the contrary, there is something within yourself that needs attention to how you are feeling. When your feelings are affecting the quality of your personal life or career choice, these clues provide an opportunity to take action for your wellness. Hopefully, you may find a fit with my service to care for your well-being. The primary focus of service is women.
When you read these words, you may be considering therapy at this time in your life. You might think something is wrong due to anxiety or sadness. On the contrary, there is something within yourself that needs attention to how you are feeling. When your feelings are affecting the quality of your personal life or career choice, these clues provide an opportunity to take action for your wellness. Hopefully, you may find a fit with my service to care for your well-being. The primary focus of service is women.
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Photo of Catherine D Broadnax, MA, LLPC, QMHP, QIDP, Counselor
Catherine D Broadnax
Counselor, MA, LLPC, QMHP, QIDP
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Do you find yourself struggling with repeating concerns in your relationships? Are you in a relationship but still feel alone? Do you feel taken for granted by your spouse? Have you lost that special connection with your partner and can not find it? Do you have frequent moments of sadness, frustration, or constantly struggling to get through each day? This may impact you personally, professionally, or both. You don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. Counseling can often shed light on what you are experiencing to help you develop coping skills and manage strong emotions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Do you find yourself struggling with repeating concerns in your relationships? Are you in a relationship but still feel alone? Do you feel taken for granted by your spouse? Have you lost that special connection with your partner and can not find it? Do you have frequent moments of sadness, frustration, or constantly struggling to get through each day? This may impact you personally, professionally, or both. You don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. Counseling can often shed light on what you are experiencing to help you develop coping skills and manage strong emotions.
(248) 218-9592 View (248) 218-9592
Photo of Jasmine Knight (Accepting New Clients), LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Knight (Accepting New Clients)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have worked with a variety of clients with various concerns, including stress, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic/delusional disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and survivors of trauma. I enjoy working with all sorts of clients but I have a particular interest in working with young women ages 16-35, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals who are pre or post bariatric surgery.
I have worked with a variety of clients with various concerns, including stress, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic/delusional disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and survivors of trauma. I enjoy working with all sorts of clients but I have a particular interest in working with young women ages 16-35, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals who are pre or post bariatric surgery.
(248) 962-3329 View (248) 962-3329
Photo of Laura Hockenberry, MA, LLP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Hockenberry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Things change in life and sometimes these transitions require support, care and insight that well-meaning friends and family cannot provide. Gaining an outside perspective, supportive validation and assistance with defining the issues that are most pertinent to you and your progression toward better life outcomes are crucial. Spending the time to address these issues is an important investment in yourself which can impact your relationships, your physical health and your future. Take the time to make that investment, you are worth it.
Things change in life and sometimes these transitions require support, care and insight that well-meaning friends and family cannot provide. Gaining an outside perspective, supportive validation and assistance with defining the issues that are most pertinent to you and your progression toward better life outcomes are crucial. Spending the time to address these issues is an important investment in yourself which can impact your relationships, your physical health and your future. Take the time to make that investment, you are worth it.
(616) 818-1345 View (616) 818-1345
Photo of Kiairra Hill, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kiairra Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076
My name is Kiairra Hill, and my goal is to work with adults and adolescents of all ages. I want to help people gain relief from relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, trauma, lack of confidence, shame, and inner criticism. I aim to work with others to assist them with gaining a sense of self-understanding and gaining more self-compassion.
My name is Kiairra Hill, and my goal is to work with adults and adolescents of all ages. I want to help people gain relief from relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, trauma, lack of confidence, shame, and inner criticism. I aim to work with others to assist them with gaining a sense of self-understanding and gaining more self-compassion.
(248) 653-5564 View (248) 653-5564
Photo of Bria Simone Bryant, MA, LPC, SCL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bria Simone Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPC, SCL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life affects us all in a variety of ways, but it’s how we respond to those experiences that determine the type of person we are. Some of those experiences can be painful and traumatic. Truthfully, healing is painful as well, but what is most detrimental is holding on to that pain and trauma. Taking a step in your healing process takes courage. Being here on this page, shows that you’re taking that step towards internal peace and healing. Your experiences contribute to the layers of who you are, however, those layers don't have to become walls and they don't have to linger on in your everyday existence.
Life affects us all in a variety of ways, but it’s how we respond to those experiences that determine the type of person we are. Some of those experiences can be painful and traumatic. Truthfully, healing is painful as well, but what is most detrimental is holding on to that pain and trauma. Taking a step in your healing process takes courage. Being here on this page, shows that you’re taking that step towards internal peace and healing. Your experiences contribute to the layers of who you are, however, those layers don't have to become walls and they don't have to linger on in your everyday existence.
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Photo of Dottie E Foster, LPC, MA, ACS, Counselor
Dottie E Foster
Counselor, LPC, MA, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48034
My passion and commitment are to helping individuals and couples become whole in every area of their lives so that they can be the best versions of themselves. I lead each session with empathy, warmth, and focus so that we can get to the “root" of the problem, which often leads to additional stress, depression, and anxiety. My grounding belief is that we are all broken in different ways and in different places, but you do not have to remain broken.
My passion and commitment are to helping individuals and couples become whole in every area of their lives so that they can be the best versions of themselves. I lead each session with empathy, warmth, and focus so that we can get to the “root" of the problem, which often leads to additional stress, depression, and anxiety. My grounding belief is that we are all broken in different ways and in different places, but you do not have to remain broken.
(313) 251-2535 View (313) 251-2535
Photo of Siedah Spencer-Ardis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Siedah Spencer-Ardis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
As a Marriage and Family Therapist my speciality is working with African American and minority women, teen girls, couples and blended families. If you are looking for a safe, non-judgmental space for healing to begin Focus Therapy Clinic is the place. Working through a questionable time in your life as a women? Battling to understand your feelings and thoughts of self doubt as a teen? Or understanding the unspoken and unclear dynamics of a blended family? It is my mission to offer a comfortable, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive atmosphere as everyone has their own unique story to tell.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist my speciality is working with African American and minority women, teen girls, couples and blended families. If you are looking for a safe, non-judgmental space for healing to begin Focus Therapy Clinic is the place. Working through a questionable time in your life as a women? Battling to understand your feelings and thoughts of self doubt as a teen? Or understanding the unspoken and unclear dynamics of a blended family? It is my mission to offer a comfortable, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive atmosphere as everyone has their own unique story to tell.
(248) 430-4725 View (248) 430-4725
Photo of Maya Cobb - Journey to Clarity Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Journey to Clarity Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
Are you feeling defined by your diagnosis or struggling to understand your emotional challenges? At Journey to Clarity Counseling, we believe that your diagnosis does not define who you are, and we are here to help you find your path. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy for all ages, beginning with a deeper understanding of your life story. Our approach goes beyond asking questions; we take the time to know YOU. We explore childhood experiences, generational trauma, family dynamics, self-worth, and wellness areas impacting daily functioning and quality of life. These factors are considered before any diagnosis is given.
Are you feeling defined by your diagnosis or struggling to understand your emotional challenges? At Journey to Clarity Counseling, we believe that your diagnosis does not define who you are, and we are here to help you find your path. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy for all ages, beginning with a deeper understanding of your life story. Our approach goes beyond asking questions; we take the time to know YOU. We explore childhood experiences, generational trauma, family dynamics, self-worth, and wellness areas impacting daily functioning and quality of life. These factors are considered before any diagnosis is given.
(248) 780-0901 View (248) 780-0901
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Southfield, MI

600+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Southfield, MI who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
73% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
69% Stress
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Aetna
57% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Southfield, MI see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Southfield?

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.