Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

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Photo of Dondra Agovino, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Dondra Agovino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Is your relationship going through a hard time? With over 10 years of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and couples navigate communication problems, heal from past traumas, and build secure, meaningful connections. I help couples figure out what is keeping their relationship stuck. I work collaboratively with clients to understand the underlying patterns that are causing disruption or discord in their lives and relationships so they can experience lasting change. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with deep empathy, creating a safe space for clients to process.
Is your relationship going through a hard time? With over 10 years of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and couples navigate communication problems, heal from past traumas, and build secure, meaningful connections. I help couples figure out what is keeping their relationship stuck. I work collaboratively with clients to understand the underlying patterns that are causing disruption or discord in their lives and relationships so they can experience lasting change. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with deep empathy, creating a safe space for clients to process.
(636) 923-8925 View (636) 923-8925
Photo of Sara Isbell - Sandhill Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, S-MFT
Sara Isbell - Sandhill Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, S-MFT
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63128
I completed my M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy at Saint Louis University; and undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. My therapy is grounded in an understanding of neuropsychology and biopsychosocial systems, with the ultimate goal of creating positive, lasting change both within clients and the relationships they hold close. A lifelong learner and activity enthusiast, I bring connection and collaboration along with a healthy sense of humor to therapy. My approach is experiential, blending modern emotion and attachment theories, with affective neuroscience.
I completed my M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy at Saint Louis University; and undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. My therapy is grounded in an understanding of neuropsychology and biopsychosocial systems, with the ultimate goal of creating positive, lasting change both within clients and the relationships they hold close. A lifelong learner and activity enthusiast, I bring connection and collaboration along with a healthy sense of humor to therapy. My approach is experiential, blending modern emotion and attachment theories, with affective neuroscience.
(636) 425-3152 x1037 View (636) 425-3152 x1037
Photo of Austin E Wilmot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Austin E Wilmot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes. In contrast to a culture that has largely moved towards a 'quick fix' mentality that ultimately fails, I offer an opportunity for deeper exploration and change.
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes. In contrast to a culture that has largely moved towards a 'quick fix' mentality that ultimately fails, I offer an opportunity for deeper exploration and change.
(314) 907-3197 View (314) 907-3197
Photo of Riley Nickols, Psychologist, PhD, CEDS
Riley Nickols
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
When relationship, mood, sport, or eating concerns arise, it is understandable to feel discouraged, isolated, and hopeless. With compassion and non-judgment, I will work collaboratively with you to achieve greater healing, peace, and freedom. I will treat you with dignity and respect as we explore factors that have contributed to undesirable patterns in your life. We will work together to cultivate hope and self-acceptance with an intent to develop a healthier relationship with yourself and others. I feel privileged for the opportunity to walk with you as we attempt to better understand and find relief from your distress.
When relationship, mood, sport, or eating concerns arise, it is understandable to feel discouraged, isolated, and hopeless. With compassion and non-judgment, I will work collaboratively with you to achieve greater healing, peace, and freedom. I will treat you with dignity and respect as we explore factors that have contributed to undesirable patterns in your life. We will work together to cultivate hope and self-acceptance with an intent to develop a healthier relationship with yourself and others. I feel privileged for the opportunity to walk with you as we attempt to better understand and find relief from your distress.
(314) 310-0184 View (314) 310-0184
Photo of Danielle Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri for 8 years and I am also a Certified Grief Informed Professional. Prior to this, I spent 5 years as a Recovery Counselor working in both an outpatient setting and a treatment court, and before that, I spent 6 years working with Family Centered Services as a case manager and intervention specialist. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss.
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri for 8 years and I am also a Certified Grief Informed Professional. Prior to this, I spent 5 years as a Recovery Counselor working in both an outpatient setting and a treatment court, and before that, I spent 6 years working with Family Centered Services as a case manager and intervention specialist. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss.
(314) 897-4619 View (314) 897-4619
Photo of Chelsi Creech - Undoing Knots Therapy, Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Undoing Knots Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Online Only
The choice of therapist is an important one and it is often helpful to have some insight into how the therapist you’re considering views therapy. My background involves training in a variety of approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. At the core, I believe therapy to be a journey to becoming more fully yourself. I have experience in helping people navigate life-changing medical diagnoses, managing depressive and anxiety symptoms, and relationship stress whether romantic, familial or friendships.
The choice of therapist is an important one and it is often helpful to have some insight into how the therapist you’re considering views therapy. My background involves training in a variety of approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. At the core, I believe therapy to be a journey to becoming more fully yourself. I have experience in helping people navigate life-changing medical diagnoses, managing depressive and anxiety symptoms, and relationship stress whether romantic, familial or friendships.
(314) 860-8116 View (314) 860-8116
Photo of Samantha Kranzberg Simonetti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Samantha Kranzberg Simonetti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder have a way of targeting the things you value most in life and making your world seem smaller. My goal is to help you learn the concepts and skills to be your own therapist and face the challenges that life hands you head-on. I specialize in treating obsessive compulsive disorder, body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRB) and anxiety disorders using evidenced based treatment. I have a passion for reducing the stigma and shame that can be associated with OCD and related disorders and ensuring that people who are struggling receive effective treatment.
Anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder have a way of targeting the things you value most in life and making your world seem smaller. My goal is to help you learn the concepts and skills to be your own therapist and face the challenges that life hands you head-on. I specialize in treating obsessive compulsive disorder, body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRB) and anxiety disorders using evidenced based treatment. I have a passion for reducing the stigma and shame that can be associated with OCD and related disorders and ensuring that people who are struggling receive effective treatment.
(314) 804-7251 x502 View (314) 804-7251 x502
Photo of Raymond L Scott - Raymond L. Scott, Ph.D., Psychologist, PhD
Raymond L. Scott, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Saint Louis, MO 63101
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I administer, interpret, and prepare culturally sensitive reports based on psychological test data. Cultural considerations play a crucial role in understanding an individual’s beliefs, learning styles, educational attainment, and values and which provide a foundation for her or his pursue of happiness, attainment of career success, and development of a sense of purpose and situatedness. I conduct aptitude and achievement evaluations, assessments to evaluate an individual’s intellectual and emotional intelligence, assessments to evaluate an individual’s personality and social functioning.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I administer, interpret, and prepare culturally sensitive reports based on psychological test data. Cultural considerations play a crucial role in understanding an individual’s beliefs, learning styles, educational attainment, and values and which provide a foundation for her or his pursue of happiness, attainment of career success, and development of a sense of purpose and situatedness. I conduct aptitude and achievement evaluations, assessments to evaluate an individual’s intellectual and emotional intelligence, assessments to evaluate an individual’s personality and social functioning.
(314) 260-9040 View (314) 260-9040
Photo of Karen A Geren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen A Geren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Karen utilizes non-judgmental and empowering approaches that focus on helping individuals access internal strengths to cope with life's difficulties. She offers unconditional support for improved wellbeing while actively challenging behaviors that may hinder progress. She has regularly facilitated growth and healing for adolescents and adults with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addictions, self-injury, self-esteem, and OCD. Interventions specific to clients' needs are regularly reviewed in order to provide tools to be used between therapy sessions.
Karen utilizes non-judgmental and empowering approaches that focus on helping individuals access internal strengths to cope with life's difficulties. She offers unconditional support for improved wellbeing while actively challenging behaviors that may hinder progress. She has regularly facilitated growth and healing for adolescents and adults with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addictions, self-injury, self-esteem, and OCD. Interventions specific to clients' needs are regularly reviewed in order to provide tools to be used between therapy sessions.
(314) 584-0606 View (314) 584-0606
Photo of Ashley Rickert-Diestelkamp, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Ashley Rickert-Diestelkamp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I believe that all clients deserve an open, safe, and non-judgmental space where they can explore stressors and other life situations. My goal is to foster a collaborative environment where clients can feel empowered and supported in their journey to healing. I use a variety of counseling techniques but I am very person-centered. While I have a wide range of experience working with people of all ages and needs, my expertise stressed working with children, ages 5 and up, teens, adults, and families with specializations in; anxiety, bullying, behavioral issues, depression, domestic violence, relational issues, and stress.
I believe that all clients deserve an open, safe, and non-judgmental space where they can explore stressors and other life situations. My goal is to foster a collaborative environment where clients can feel empowered and supported in their journey to healing. I use a variety of counseling techniques but I am very person-centered. While I have a wide range of experience working with people of all ages and needs, my expertise stressed working with children, ages 5 and up, teens, adults, and families with specializations in; anxiety, bullying, behavioral issues, depression, domestic violence, relational issues, and stress.
(314) 274-6453 View (314) 274-6453
Photo of Molly Green, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Molly Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I am an empathetic and enthusiastic therapist. I can help with goals that relate to things such as mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
I am an empathetic and enthusiastic therapist. I can help with goals that relate to things such as mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
(314) 626-8216 View (314) 626-8216
Photo of Malachi Oledibe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Malachi Oledibe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I'm Dr. Malachi Oledibe, a seasoned, experienced, and licensed psychotherapist in the States of Kansas and Missouri. I apply different approaches to therapy depending on the needs of my clients. Some of my approaches to therapy include Trauma Informed Care (TIC), Solution-Focused (SF), Problem-Solving (PS), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I provide therapy to children and adults who are challenged with emotional, mental, and life-changing trauma, events, and relational issues.
I'm Dr. Malachi Oledibe, a seasoned, experienced, and licensed psychotherapist in the States of Kansas and Missouri. I apply different approaches to therapy depending on the needs of my clients. Some of my approaches to therapy include Trauma Informed Care (TIC), Solution-Focused (SF), Problem-Solving (PS), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I provide therapy to children and adults who are challenged with emotional, mental, and life-changing trauma, events, and relational issues.
(636) 630-8507 View (636) 630-8507
Photo of Tara Lusby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tara Lusby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Tara Lusby LPC and LCSW believes the client knows the best route for treatment, meeting them where they are at and partnering on their mental health journey. Specializes in individual therapy for adults 18-99 with a focus on anxiety, depression and trauma. Adult clients aged 18-99 with a focus on anxiety, depression, attachment issues and trauma. I have experience working with individuals who experience self-harming behaviors or suicidal thoughts.
Tara Lusby LPC and LCSW believes the client knows the best route for treatment, meeting them where they are at and partnering on their mental health journey. Specializes in individual therapy for adults 18-99 with a focus on anxiety, depression and trauma. Adult clients aged 18-99 with a focus on anxiety, depression, attachment issues and trauma. I have experience working with individuals who experience self-harming behaviors or suicidal thoughts.
(314) 661-5145 View (314) 661-5145
Photo of Alexis Short, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Alexis Short
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Hi I'm Alexis! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Saint Louis. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, and executive functioning. I am here to support you, provide you with trauma informed care, and utilize evidence based interventions to meet your therapy goals. I know that every person processes differently so I offer different ways of expressing such as art, games, talking, walking, and mindfulness exercises. I am located next to Tower Grove Park so I am happy to offer walking sessions through the park when weather permits!
Hi I'm Alexis! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Saint Louis. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, and executive functioning. I am here to support you, provide you with trauma informed care, and utilize evidence based interventions to meet your therapy goals. I know that every person processes differently so I offer different ways of expressing such as art, games, talking, walking, and mindfulness exercises. I am located next to Tower Grove Park so I am happy to offer walking sessions through the park when weather permits!
(314) 789-3047 View (314) 789-3047
Photo of LaJuana Walker-McGill, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
LaJuana Walker-McGill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hello! I am LaJuana Walker-McGill, and I am a licensed professional counselor with 23 years of experience providing mental health therapy. I reside and practice in the state of Missouri. I provide client-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy to individuals dealing with issues related to depression, grief, anxiety, relationships, anger management, and adjustment issues. I met clients where they are by creating a safe in-person or virtual environment for them to express and explore their feelings.
Hello! I am LaJuana Walker-McGill, and I am a licensed professional counselor with 23 years of experience providing mental health therapy. I reside and practice in the state of Missouri. I provide client-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy to individuals dealing with issues related to depression, grief, anxiety, relationships, anger management, and adjustment issues. I met clients where they are by creating a safe in-person or virtual environment for them to express and explore their feelings.
(636) 689-5424 View (636) 689-5424
Photo of Hannah Campbell, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Hannah Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Saint Louis, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
I'm glad you're here: you have taken a courageous and healing step by seeking support. I provide an integrative, resiliency-focused approach to therapy, pulling from your strengths and values to guide our work and help you regain a sense of mastery, meaning, and connection in your life. My perspective is that we are built to survive and often develop ways of relating which once helped us get by, but may no longer be helpful to a current situation. My goal is to form a safe connection to explore these factors that may contribute to ongoing difficulties, re-process experiences, and ultimately co-create your next chapter.
I'm glad you're here: you have taken a courageous and healing step by seeking support. I provide an integrative, resiliency-focused approach to therapy, pulling from your strengths and values to guide our work and help you regain a sense of mastery, meaning, and connection in your life. My perspective is that we are built to survive and often develop ways of relating which once helped us get by, but may no longer be helpful to a current situation. My goal is to form a safe connection to explore these factors that may contribute to ongoing difficulties, re-process experiences, and ultimately co-create your next chapter.
(314) 675-7902 View (314) 675-7902
Photo of Bill Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Bill Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
(573) 312-2953 View (573) 312-2953
Photo of Michelle Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Michelle Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Are you struggling to find meaning and purpose in your life? Maybe you struggle with negative, self-defeating thoughts and beliefs that may cause depression and/or anxiety.
Are you struggling to find meaning and purpose in your life? Maybe you struggle with negative, self-defeating thoughts and beliefs that may cause depression and/or anxiety.
(314) 470-9191 View (314) 470-9191
Photo of Susan H Clauss, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MRSS, CRPR
Susan H Clauss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MRSS, CRPR
Online Only
You may be struggling with self-esteem, anger, frustration, stress, anxiety, conflict, grief, a difficult decision, or other challenges that impact your life, your relationships, or your job. You want someone to listen to you, to really hear your concerns, and to help you sort through and understand what you're going through. And you want help finding the tools, learning the skills and strategies, and accessing the resources to get you to a better place, whatever that looks like for you.
You may be struggling with self-esteem, anger, frustration, stress, anxiety, conflict, grief, a difficult decision, or other challenges that impact your life, your relationships, or your job. You want someone to listen to you, to really hear your concerns, and to help you sort through and understand what you're going through. And you want help finding the tools, learning the skills and strategies, and accessing the resources to get you to a better place, whatever that looks like for you.
(314) 936-4348 View (314) 936-4348
Photo of Yvette Sanchez, MA, LMFT
Yvette Sanchez
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127
I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, passionate about working with adults and couples from all walks of life. I enjoy working with clients who are navigating life transitions, cultural identity issues, intimacy, communication difficulties, relationship and/or marital challenges. I also support individuals struggling with anxiety, grief, and generational trauma. I am working on my certificate towards sexual health to help normalize talking about sex and sexual pleasure in the community. I aim to provide my clients with a safe and supportive space where they can be vulnerable and empowered.
I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, passionate about working with adults and couples from all walks of life. I enjoy working with clients who are navigating life transitions, cultural identity issues, intimacy, communication difficulties, relationship and/or marital challenges. I also support individuals struggling with anxiety, grief, and generational trauma. I am working on my certificate towards sexual health to help normalize talking about sex and sexual pleasure in the community. I aim to provide my clients with a safe and supportive space where they can be vulnerable and empowered.
(314) 207-8275 View (314) 207-8275

See more therapy options for Saint Louis

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Saint Louis, MO who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
70% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Relationship Issues
63% Self Esteem
62% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Saint Louis, MO see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Louis?

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.