Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

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Photo of Dawn Jones, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people of diverse beliefs, backgrounds, and cultures. I would love to work with you, not only to help you resolve the situations which brought you to counseling, but also to help you grow more into who you actually are. I utilize EMDR and DBT to help both teens and adults with life transitions, identity issues, abuse recovery, sex addictions, and life skills. I bring a balance to my counseling sessions. Clients can expect me to be honest and forward focused, while creating a space that feels at ease and judgment free. Please call to see if my services might be a fit for your needs.
I work with people of diverse beliefs, backgrounds, and cultures. I would love to work with you, not only to help you resolve the situations which brought you to counseling, but also to help you grow more into who you actually are. I utilize EMDR and DBT to help both teens and adults with life transitions, identity issues, abuse recovery, sex addictions, and life skills. I bring a balance to my counseling sessions. Clients can expect me to be honest and forward focused, while creating a space that feels at ease and judgment free. Please call to see if my services might be a fit for your needs.
(314) 207-4490 View (314) 207-4490
Photo of Jessica Naslund, LCSW, CSE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Naslund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I am an AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals of all abilities in areas of sexuality, gender identity, relationship building, intimacy, communication and trauma.
I am an AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals of all abilities in areas of sexuality, gender identity, relationship building, intimacy, communication and trauma.
(314) 690-1214 View (314) 690-1214
Photo of Julia C Rothermich, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia C Rothermich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Are you tired of answering the question "What's wrong?" One of the hardest things in life is having words in your heart that you can't speak. Together, we can find your voice and explore whatever brings you to counseling in a collaborative, safe and supportive setting. Mental health is just as critical as your physical health and you don't need to suffer in silence. You deserve an emotional check-up.
Are you tired of answering the question "What's wrong?" One of the hardest things in life is having words in your heart that you can't speak. Together, we can find your voice and explore whatever brings you to counseling in a collaborative, safe and supportive setting. Mental health is just as critical as your physical health and you don't need to suffer in silence. You deserve an emotional check-up.
(636) 779-4040 View (636) 779-4040
Photo of Kela L Woods, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kela L Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63136
Kela Woods is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with over 15 years experience in Behavioral Health & Social Services. She obtained a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Lindenwood University in St. Charles Missouri. Kela’s work experience includes mental health assessments, diagnosing, treatment planning, referrals, crisis intervention and de-escalation. As a therapist Kela is here to listen, to validate, and to provide support in a safe and non-judgemental setting. Kela’s counseling style is warm, empathetic, and client-centered.
Kela Woods is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with over 15 years experience in Behavioral Health & Social Services. She obtained a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Lindenwood University in St. Charles Missouri. Kela’s work experience includes mental health assessments, diagnosing, treatment planning, referrals, crisis intervention and de-escalation. As a therapist Kela is here to listen, to validate, and to provide support in a safe and non-judgemental setting. Kela’s counseling style is warm, empathetic, and client-centered.
(314) 742-9392 View (314) 742-9392
Photo of Christina Thaier, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Thaier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63104
I founded Terrace House because I believe that each of us deserves the opportunity to design a life that we love; one in which we feel at home in our bodies, in our minds, in our relationships, and in our world. I enjoy working with couples, adults, and adolescents to define and change their relationship with the problems in their lives including: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, identity exploration (including LGBTQ+), existential questions, spiritual concerns, career concerns, and relational wounds (including betrayal, divorce, and attachment.)
I founded Terrace House because I believe that each of us deserves the opportunity to design a life that we love; one in which we feel at home in our bodies, in our minds, in our relationships, and in our world. I enjoy working with couples, adults, and adolescents to define and change their relationship with the problems in their lives including: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, identity exploration (including LGBTQ+), existential questions, spiritual concerns, career concerns, and relational wounds (including betrayal, divorce, and attachment.)
(314) 309-3502 View (314) 309-3502
Photo of Victoria Jane Coronado, MA, LPC, Counselor
Victoria Jane Coronado
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63102  (Online Only)
It can be so difficult to enjoy a “normal” life when your mind is preoccupied with diet, weight, or the size and shape of your body. It’s hard to concentrate at work or school when you can’t stop fixating on your muffin top, and how many calories or “points” you have left for the day. You feel anxious when it comes to being around other people because you fear they’re judging you. You have no idea how you got into this vicious cycle, or how to get out. If this sounds like you, I can help you find your way to making peace with food and your body!
It can be so difficult to enjoy a “normal” life when your mind is preoccupied with diet, weight, or the size and shape of your body. It’s hard to concentrate at work or school when you can’t stop fixating on your muffin top, and how many calories or “points” you have left for the day. You feel anxious when it comes to being around other people because you fear they’re judging you. You have no idea how you got into this vicious cycle, or how to get out. If this sounds like you, I can help you find your way to making peace with food and your body!
(314) 816-2700 View (314) 816-2700
Photo of Alexis Short, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Short
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults. However, I really enjoy working with any individual that wants to explore their mental health or maybe just needs someone to talk to. I am here to help you express and process through many different ways such as art, games, talking, mindfulness exercises, and much more.
I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults. However, I really enjoy working with any individual that wants to explore their mental health or maybe just needs someone to talk to. I am here to help you express and process through many different ways such as art, games, talking, mindfulness exercises, and much more.
(314) 789-3047 View (314) 789-3047
Photo of Gary Schmidt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gary Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
Navigating life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but hope and healing are within reach. As a licensed therapist, I’m here to guide you toward a path of clarity, confidence, and growth. My name is Gary Schmidt and I am a trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and I look forward to connecting with you.
Navigating life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but hope and healing are within reach. As a licensed therapist, I’m here to guide you toward a path of clarity, confidence, and growth. My name is Gary Schmidt and I am a trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and I look forward to connecting with you.
(314) 526-3336 View (314) 526-3336
Photo of Kelly S Diller, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly S Diller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Waitlist for new clients
Kelly brings deep compassion and understanding to the counseling experience and walks with her clients through changes that are meaningful and long-lasting. She is passionate about helping women heal from abuse and betrayal, and she recognizes the importance of instilling hope for desired change with regard to relationships and other goals. She loves to work with relationships, anxiety, self-esteem, family counseling, adolescents, identity issues, grief, trauma, depression, anger, and spiritual struggles. Kelly assists her clients in understanding the full context of their situations and she speaks truth in love.
Kelly brings deep compassion and understanding to the counseling experience and walks with her clients through changes that are meaningful and long-lasting. She is passionate about helping women heal from abuse and betrayal, and she recognizes the importance of instilling hope for desired change with regard to relationships and other goals. She loves to work with relationships, anxiety, self-esteem, family counseling, adolescents, identity issues, grief, trauma, depression, anger, and spiritual struggles. Kelly assists her clients in understanding the full context of their situations and she speaks truth in love.
(314) 219-1724 View (314) 219-1724
Photo of Abby Evilsizor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby Evilsizor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122  (Online Only)
Fuerza means strength in Spanish and that is what I wish for all of my clients who come to Fuerza Wellness. What I hope for you during therapy is that you are able to find the strength you need to get through life’s challenges AND to allow yourself to let go and soften. That you can dream of your future AND live in the moment. That you may know your identities AND be confident in what those are. If you are going through a major life transition, coming into your own as an adult, are bicultural, or in the perinatal (pre-pregnancy, pregnant, postpartum) phase of life, we may be a good fit to work together!
Fuerza means strength in Spanish and that is what I wish for all of my clients who come to Fuerza Wellness. What I hope for you during therapy is that you are able to find the strength you need to get through life’s challenges AND to allow yourself to let go and soften. That you can dream of your future AND live in the moment. That you may know your identities AND be confident in what those are. If you are going through a major life transition, coming into your own as an adult, are bicultural, or in the perinatal (pre-pregnancy, pregnant, postpartum) phase of life, we may be a good fit to work together!
(314) 501-6627 View (314) 501-6627
Photo of Jessica Kershenski, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Kershenski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Is your child or teen struggling with feeling worried, sad or angry? Are they struggling to adjust to and cope with stressors in their lives? Are you unsure as to how to help them? I would feel privileged to assist your child on their journey to building emotional balance. As a registered play therapist, I utilize both directive and non-directive play and creative therapy techniques, allowing clients the ability to express their difficult emotions, struggles, past traumas, and ultimately their strengths and coping skills.
Is your child or teen struggling with feeling worried, sad or angry? Are they struggling to adjust to and cope with stressors in their lives? Are you unsure as to how to help them? I would feel privileged to assist your child on their journey to building emotional balance. As a registered play therapist, I utilize both directive and non-directive play and creative therapy techniques, allowing clients the ability to express their difficult emotions, struggles, past traumas, and ultimately their strengths and coping skills.
(314) 931-3339 View (314) 931-3339
Photo of Chris Elliott, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63116
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health. I believe that therapy is a powerful tool for achieving a healthy and balanced life. I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness, community-based interventions, trauma-focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, to provide individualized care for each client. As a North St. Louis-bred and St. Louis University-educated professional, I understand the struggles associated with limited resources and the traumas they can bring. This knowledge is used to support clients' growth.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health. I believe that therapy is a powerful tool for achieving a healthy and balanced life. I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness, community-based interventions, trauma-focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, to provide individualized care for each client. As a North St. Louis-bred and St. Louis University-educated professional, I understand the struggles associated with limited resources and the traumas they can bring. This knowledge is used to support clients' growth.
(314) 648-8388 View (314) 648-8388
Photo of Stacey Greer, MEd, LPC, LLC, Counselor
Stacey Greer
Counselor, MEd, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63144  (Online Only)
I believe that we do not always have control over our circumstances, but we do have a choice in how we handle our circumstances. I encourage clients to focus on their strengths, face their challenges and process their feelings in a healthy way. Allowing a safe platform to work through this process. I teach clients how to use healthy ways to manage depression, anxiety, grief, stress, work stress, codependency and relationship/family struggles. I have worked with many clients on parenting issues, relationship issues, post-partum/pregnancy issues, grief and loss, employment stress and looking at life differently since the pandemic.
I believe that we do not always have control over our circumstances, but we do have a choice in how we handle our circumstances. I encourage clients to focus on their strengths, face their challenges and process their feelings in a healthy way. Allowing a safe platform to work through this process. I teach clients how to use healthy ways to manage depression, anxiety, grief, stress, work stress, codependency and relationship/family struggles. I have worked with many clients on parenting issues, relationship issues, post-partum/pregnancy issues, grief and loss, employment stress and looking at life differently since the pandemic.
(314) 207-3925 View (314) 207-3925
Photo of Maria Cognata, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Cognata
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Like you, my clients worry a lot about their health. Unexplained symptoms lead to days of spiraling, looking things up on the internet, and asking loved ones to tell you you’re okay. You’re having trouble sleeping because you can’t turn your mind off. The fear of having a health condition that you could have prevented if you’d just been more proactive is unbearable. When you’re feeling out of control, having a sense of direction and someone to walk beside you can be comforting. You can bring your authentic self to sessions with me. I strive to create an open, non-judgmental, and inclusive environment for everyone in my office.
Like you, my clients worry a lot about their health. Unexplained symptoms lead to days of spiraling, looking things up on the internet, and asking loved ones to tell you you’re okay. You’re having trouble sleeping because you can’t turn your mind off. The fear of having a health condition that you could have prevented if you’d just been more proactive is unbearable. When you’re feeling out of control, having a sense of direction and someone to walk beside you can be comforting. You can bring your authentic self to sessions with me. I strive to create an open, non-judgmental, and inclusive environment for everyone in my office.
(314) 936-2686 View (314) 936-2686
Photo of Gina L Jackson, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina L Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Are you struggling through life or feeling lost and directionless? Almost everyone needs help along life’s journey. Knowing ourselves deeply and understanding how our early experiences influence our current relationships and behaviors can help us improve our mood and change our lives. In my psychotherapy practice, I use a non-judgmental approach to help you open-mindedly evaluate your own life and to help you find alternative ways to view and solve your problems.
Are you struggling through life or feeling lost and directionless? Almost everyone needs help along life’s journey. Knowing ourselves deeply and understanding how our early experiences influence our current relationships and behaviors can help us improve our mood and change our lives. In my psychotherapy practice, I use a non-judgmental approach to help you open-mindedly evaluate your own life and to help you find alternative ways to view and solve your problems.
(314) 748-1498 View (314) 748-1498
Photo of Beth Perkins, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Perkins
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Now accepting new clients! Whatever struggle is motivating you to start counseling, something inside is knocking. The knock may be feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed. It may be feeling disconnected in relationships and from what is meaningful in your life, a sense of emptiness or lack of purpose. To answer that knock means to turn inward, which can be challenging and uncomfortable at times, yet I whole-heartedly believe the life you seek is patiently waiting! The pain you are experiencing is actually an invitation for healing and growth. Answer the knock. When things break down, breakthroughs happen.
Now accepting new clients! Whatever struggle is motivating you to start counseling, something inside is knocking. The knock may be feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed. It may be feeling disconnected in relationships and from what is meaningful in your life, a sense of emptiness or lack of purpose. To answer that knock means to turn inward, which can be challenging and uncomfortable at times, yet I whole-heartedly believe the life you seek is patiently waiting! The pain you are experiencing is actually an invitation for healing and growth. Answer the knock. When things break down, breakthroughs happen.
(314) 207-5596 View (314) 207-5596
Photo of Erin Walker, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
I help women+ entrepreneurs and creatives confront imposter syndrome, navigate perfectionism, and step into their dream lives. As a multi-business entrepreneur within mental health, self-development, and the arts, I understand what it's like to feel called towards your passion but to have both internal and external voices reminding you of the risks of leaving your comfort zone. However, I also understand just how rewarding it can be to take the leap, invest in yourself, and pursue your passion.
I help women+ entrepreneurs and creatives confront imposter syndrome, navigate perfectionism, and step into their dream lives. As a multi-business entrepreneur within mental health, self-development, and the arts, I understand what it's like to feel called towards your passion but to have both internal and external voices reminding you of the risks of leaving your comfort zone. However, I also understand just how rewarding it can be to take the leap, invest in yourself, and pursue your passion.
(314) 296-3222 View (314) 296-3222
Photo of Nancy K. Kerne, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy K. Kerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
Are you standing in the face of uncertainty in your life or career and confused as to how to move forward? Does performance paralysis settle in when considering a risk? Do you lack confidence and avoid social situations? Having lived through Hurricane Katrina, resulting in an abrupt relocation to St. Louis in 2008 (after forty years in Louisiana), I can relate to starting over, the absence of family, and the need for grounding. The Covid pandemic was a reminder of how quickly life can change and the necessity for resources. Cumulative traumatic grief is evident in its aftermath as is the need for trauma specialist care in healing.
Are you standing in the face of uncertainty in your life or career and confused as to how to move forward? Does performance paralysis settle in when considering a risk? Do you lack confidence and avoid social situations? Having lived through Hurricane Katrina, resulting in an abrupt relocation to St. Louis in 2008 (after forty years in Louisiana), I can relate to starting over, the absence of family, and the need for grounding. The Covid pandemic was a reminder of how quickly life can change and the necessity for resources. Cumulative traumatic grief is evident in its aftermath as is the need for trauma specialist care in healing.
(281) 609-3380 View (281) 609-3380
Photo of Deanna Stassi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanna Stassi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed by the circumstances of your life? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? It can be hard to break out of these feelings on your own. The gentle guidance of a counselor can help you recognize that you have the strength within you to overcome the obstacles in your life and to use them to grow emotionally. My goal as a counselor is to empower you to recognize your own strengths and to help you reach your goals. Please visit my website: www.deannastassi.com.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the circumstances of your life? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? It can be hard to break out of these feelings on your own. The gentle guidance of a counselor can help you recognize that you have the strength within you to overcome the obstacles in your life and to use them to grow emotionally. My goal as a counselor is to empower you to recognize your own strengths and to help you reach your goals. Please visit my website: www.deannastassi.com.
(314) 238-8513 View (314) 238-8513
Photo of Sara Trunko, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sara Trunko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
Life often presents us with challenges that can easily become overwhelming or even daunting. In a world filled with relentless to-do lists and constant demands, finding time for ourselves often takes a back seat. Our society doesn’t always encourage the practice of self-care, leaving many of us feeling stretched thin. Investing time and energy in yourself is a powerful choice you can make to begin shifting this dynamic. You deserve the life you want and have the power to make meaningful changes toward that life.
Life often presents us with challenges that can easily become overwhelming or even daunting. In a world filled with relentless to-do lists and constant demands, finding time for ourselves often takes a back seat. Our society doesn’t always encourage the practice of self-care, leaving many of us feeling stretched thin. Investing time and energy in yourself is a powerful choice you can make to begin shifting this dynamic. You deserve the life you want and have the power to make meaningful changes toward that life.
(314) 866-8791 View (314) 866-8791
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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
86% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Saint Louis, MO see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% 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.