Therapists in Charlotte, NC

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Photo of Rachel Dunning - New South Counseling Group: Rachel Dunning, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
New South Counseling Group: Rachel Dunning
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I’m an AuDHD therapist and an expert in treating eating disorders. I specialize in offering neuro-affirming help and support for Autistic, ADHD and Neuro-Diverse people who are experiencing eating challenges. Do you feel like your body or food is a problem? Is your family concerned and upset? That can create pressure and stress, and you just want freedom and rest.
I’m an AuDHD therapist and an expert in treating eating disorders. I specialize in offering neuro-affirming help and support for Autistic, ADHD and Neuro-Diverse people who are experiencing eating challenges. Do you feel like your body or food is a problem? Is your family concerned and upset? That can create pressure and stress, and you just want freedom and rest.
(704) 741-1620 View (704) 741-1620
Photo of Cecilia Smith, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Cecilia Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Charlotte, NC 28204
Cecilia Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2017. She has an MA in Licensed Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Cecilia offers a safe and caring environment free from judgment that allows clients to feel comfortable opening their hearts and minds to healing and hope! An individualized approach will be used for each client individually to work towards their specific treatment plan and goals! Outside of work, Cecilia enjoys baking, nature walks, spending time with family and friends, and attending her home church!.
Cecilia Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2017. She has an MA in Licensed Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Cecilia offers a safe and caring environment free from judgment that allows clients to feel comfortable opening their hearts and minds to healing and hope! An individualized approach will be used for each client individually to work towards their specific treatment plan and goals! Outside of work, Cecilia enjoys baking, nature walks, spending time with family and friends, and attending her home church!.
(704) 327-2635 View (704) 327-2635
Photo of Carol Fletcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carol Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I'm a licensed independent clinical social worker in eight states including Pennsylvania, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Illinois. My career started in Pennsylvania where I attended Chestnut Hill College and received my Master's in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Option. It continued in upstate Pennsylvania and New York where I attended SUNY University of Buffalo and received my Master of Social Work Degree. I capped those off with a Psy.D. from CalSouthern University, an online doctoral format. I'm also an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor.
I'm a licensed independent clinical social worker in eight states including Pennsylvania, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Illinois. My career started in Pennsylvania where I attended Chestnut Hill College and received my Master's in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Option. It continued in upstate Pennsylvania and New York where I attended SUNY University of Buffalo and received my Master of Social Work Degree. I capped those off with a Psy.D. from CalSouthern University, an online doctoral format. I'm also an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor.
(484) 296-3481 View (484) 296-3481
Photo of Christina Felten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Christina Felten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Charlotte, NC 28203
Are you overwhelmed and exhausted? Maybe you feel like you’ve lost your spark, like you are disconnected from your true self. Maybe you are burned out and tired of holding it all together. As a therapist, I provide a safe space to address whatever challenges you are facing, and I am committed to supporting you on your journey towards wellness and healing.
Are you overwhelmed and exhausted? Maybe you feel like you’ve lost your spark, like you are disconnected from your true self. Maybe you are burned out and tired of holding it all together. As a therapist, I provide a safe space to address whatever challenges you are facing, and I am committed to supporting you on your journey towards wellness and healing.
(704) 368-3807 View (704) 368-3807
Photo of Toni Mason, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Toni Mason
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
"We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them." -Albert Einstein. If you are someone who is looking to change your life or who desires a new perspective, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Recognizing and changing old patterns can be difficult work but you don't have to take that journey alone. People who find my style of counseling useful tend to appreciate a gentle but direct approach. My specialties include older adults (60+), couples, folx in the LGBTQIA+ community (including polyamory/ethical non-monogamy) and people experiencing pregnancy, postpartum or infertility challenges.
"We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them." -Albert Einstein. If you are someone who is looking to change your life or who desires a new perspective, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Recognizing and changing old patterns can be difficult work but you don't have to take that journey alone. People who find my style of counseling useful tend to appreciate a gentle but direct approach. My specialties include older adults (60+), couples, folx in the LGBTQIA+ community (including polyamory/ethical non-monogamy) and people experiencing pregnancy, postpartum or infertility challenges.
(704) 994-8608 View (704) 994-8608
Photo of Brittany Washington, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Brittany Washington
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you struggle with self-doubt, maintaining healthy relationships, or feeling like you’ve let yourself or others down? Do anxiety, stress, trauma, or the challenges of living with epilepsy or PNES impact your daily life? Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, but you’ve taken the right first step. I believe you are the expert on your own life and have the strength to create meaningful change. Together, we will build resilience, develop coping strategies, and help you move forward with confidence.
Do you struggle with self-doubt, maintaining healthy relationships, or feeling like you’ve let yourself or others down? Do anxiety, stress, trauma, or the challenges of living with epilepsy or PNES impact your daily life? Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, but you’ve taken the right first step. I believe you are the expert on your own life and have the strength to create meaningful change. Together, we will build resilience, develop coping strategies, and help you move forward with confidence.
(980) 980-1306 View (980) 980-1306
Photo of Christopher M. Roberts, Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Christopher M. Roberts
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Wellness and empowerment are two (of many) words I root my work with clients, as I have seen how they can further clients progress towards their goals. I see you as your own agent for change and I also strive to assist in their ability to further your understanding of self. You may hear me quickly speak to topics of internal dialogue, self-care, and stress management, as we assess wellness through a bio-psycho-social model (how biological, psychological and social aspects of our life intertwine in mental health). I also value the importance of how trauma can impact our present self, exploring it's impact on emotional regulation.
Wellness and empowerment are two (of many) words I root my work with clients, as I have seen how they can further clients progress towards their goals. I see you as your own agent for change and I also strive to assist in their ability to further your understanding of self. You may hear me quickly speak to topics of internal dialogue, self-care, and stress management, as we assess wellness through a bio-psycho-social model (how biological, psychological and social aspects of our life intertwine in mental health). I also value the importance of how trauma can impact our present self, exploring it's impact on emotional regulation.
(980) 350-7826 View (980) 350-7826
Photo of Sarah Webber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina. I received my Masters from Simmons University and have been practicing for 6 years. Life can bring waves of transition, many wonderful and empowering; others more difficult, scary, and confusing. I specialize in partnering with individuals to provide support and explore ways to improve quality of life. Typical areas of exploration may include retirement, end of life, bereavement, independence, career, caregiver stress, medical diagnosis, and identity and the varied accompanying mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety, isolation, poor self-care).
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina. I received my Masters from Simmons University and have been practicing for 6 years. Life can bring waves of transition, many wonderful and empowering; others more difficult, scary, and confusing. I specialize in partnering with individuals to provide support and explore ways to improve quality of life. Typical areas of exploration may include retirement, end of life, bereavement, independence, career, caregiver stress, medical diagnosis, and identity and the varied accompanying mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety, isolation, poor self-care).
(704) 486-4209 View (704) 486-4209
Photo of Janae Fulton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Janae Fulton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Welcome! I specialize in working with highly sensitive people, those struggling with anxiety, and individuals that have experienced trauma. If you feel deeply, overthink everything, or get overwhelmed easily, you're not alone. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space while tailoring treatment to each individual's unique needs. I provide trauma-informed care to adults of all ages seeking to stop being trapped in the pain of the past.
Welcome! I specialize in working with highly sensitive people, those struggling with anxiety, and individuals that have experienced trauma. If you feel deeply, overthink everything, or get overwhelmed easily, you're not alone. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space while tailoring treatment to each individual's unique needs. I provide trauma-informed care to adults of all ages seeking to stop being trapped in the pain of the past.
(980) 351-7696 View (980) 351-7696
Photo of Madison May, Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCSA
Madison May
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCSA
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with 1 year of experience. I have a passion for providing care to those living with obsessive-compulsive disorder through nurturing, compassionate, highly effective, and exposure-based counseling. I also work with clients of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions. My own mental health experiences have given me a unique sense of empathy and understanding that translates to my clinical work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with 1 year of experience. I have a passion for providing care to those living with obsessive-compulsive disorder through nurturing, compassionate, highly effective, and exposure-based counseling. I also work with clients of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions. My own mental health experiences have given me a unique sense of empathy and understanding that translates to my clinical work.
(980) 393-6871 View (980) 393-6871
Photo of Denise Mcknight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Denise Mcknight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or the effects of domestic violence. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. Their goals include healing, building resilience, and gaining control of their mental health. They want to better understand their emotions, improve relationships, and regain balance. As a therapist, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve meaningful change.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or the effects of domestic violence. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. Their goals include healing, building resilience, and gaining control of their mental health. They want to better understand their emotions, improve relationships, and regain balance. As a therapist, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve meaningful change.
(980) 247-4588 View (980) 247-4588
Photo of Deanna Lenker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Deanna Lenker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
If you are feeling down, depressed, or anxious then therapy might be the first step towards feeling better! As a therapist, I work with my clients to address issues around trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and relationships. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community, chronically ill individuals, and women. I am geek, goth, and gamer-friendly! I am able to see clients residing in NC, SC, and VA. Please reach out via email to set up new patient appointments
If you are feeling down, depressed, or anxious then therapy might be the first step towards feeling better! As a therapist, I work with my clients to address issues around trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and relationships. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community, chronically ill individuals, and women. I am geek, goth, and gamer-friendly! I am able to see clients residing in NC, SC, and VA. Please reach out via email to set up new patient appointments
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Photo of Lia Anh Woodford Bauert, Pre-Licensed Professional, BSPH
Lia Anh Woodford Bauert
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSPH
Charlotte, NC 28210
My ideal clients are… interested in rediscovering their strengths and looking for opportunities to grow or nourish the parts of them that they love. A person who is willing to take the risk of discomfort to uncover roots from the past, to be present in the now, and strive towards the future. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, anger concerns, relationship stress, those in low resource contexts. I am passionate about working with adolescents, adults, and aging adults and strive to be an advocate for my patients.
My ideal clients are… interested in rediscovering their strengths and looking for opportunities to grow or nourish the parts of them that they love. A person who is willing to take the risk of discomfort to uncover roots from the past, to be present in the now, and strive towards the future. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, anger concerns, relationship stress, those in low resource contexts. I am passionate about working with adolescents, adults, and aging adults and strive to be an advocate for my patients.
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Photo of Crysandra Y Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMSW, LCSWA
Crysandra Y Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMSW, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're seeking more than just support – a therapeutic intervention that truly addresses your challenges – I'm here to guide you. Whether it's anxiety, life-limiting fears, unwanted thoughts, or sleepless nights, I understand the need for healing, relief, and growth. I offer attentive listening and effective strategies to ease stress, identify triggers, and restore your sense of self. Envision a life where you can relax your shoulders, breathe freely and quiet those overwhelming thoughts. Let's unpack your emotions together, finding an authentic route to healing through exploration of the past, present, and future.
If you're seeking more than just support – a therapeutic intervention that truly addresses your challenges – I'm here to guide you. Whether it's anxiety, life-limiting fears, unwanted thoughts, or sleepless nights, I understand the need for healing, relief, and growth. I offer attentive listening and effective strategies to ease stress, identify triggers, and restore your sense of self. Envision a life where you can relax your shoulders, breathe freely and quiet those overwhelming thoughts. Let's unpack your emotions together, finding an authentic route to healing through exploration of the past, present, and future.
(980) 448-1126 View (980) 448-1126
Photo of Nicole Brito, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Nicole Brito
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
9 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
Taking this brave step in your healing journey is something to be truly proud of. I'm here to support you through exploration, navigating challenges, and embracing your strengths. Whether navigating anxiety, life transitions, self-confidence, or seeking self-forgiveness, I offer a supportive space where you're empowered, validated, and truly heard. Your expertise in your life is valued, and I provide personalized tools to address your unique challenges. Together, we'll focus on your strengths, well-being, and prioritize your path to acceptance. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate the personal growth you deserve.
Taking this brave step in your healing journey is something to be truly proud of. I'm here to support you through exploration, navigating challenges, and embracing your strengths. Whether navigating anxiety, life transitions, self-confidence, or seeking self-forgiveness, I offer a supportive space where you're empowered, validated, and truly heard. Your expertise in your life is valued, and I provide personalized tools to address your unique challenges. Together, we'll focus on your strengths, well-being, and prioritize your path to acceptance. Let's work together to achieve your goals and cultivate the personal growth you deserve.
(980) 372-4098 View (980) 372-4098
Photo of Stephanie Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stephanie Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I treat ages 12 to 65 and those experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, as well as helping clients build up their coping skills, navigate peer and intimate relationships, build self-esteem, and manage stress. My clinical experience includes providing inpatient psychiatric services and outpatient telehealth services. In sessions, I use a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, dialectical behavioral interventions, and motivational interviewing.
I treat ages 12 to 65 and those experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, as well as helping clients build up their coping skills, navigate peer and intimate relationships, build self-esteem, and manage stress. My clinical experience includes providing inpatient psychiatric services and outpatient telehealth services. In sessions, I use a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, dialectical behavioral interventions, and motivational interviewing.
(704) 610-3552 View (704) 610-3552
Photo of Brittany Hargrove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Brittany Hargrove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist LCAS in North Carolina. I obtained my Master’s in Social Work in 2013 with the Joint Master’s of Social Work Program between the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist LCAS in North Carolina. I obtained my Master’s in Social Work in 2013 with the Joint Master’s of Social Work Program between the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University.
(980) 372-8065 View (980) 372-8065
Photo of Jewrine Brown, Counselor, LCMHC
Jewrine Brown
Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
I’m Jewrine Brown, known as the "Down 2 Earth Counselor," and I bring over 12 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, North Carolina. With a Master’s in Marriage and Family and a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and providing online counseling.
I’m Jewrine Brown, known as the "Down 2 Earth Counselor," and I bring over 12 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, North Carolina. With a Master’s in Marriage and Family and a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and providing online counseling.
(704) 755-3295 View (704) 755-3295
Photo of Corey Connelly, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Corey Connelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
I enjoy working with clients struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, and perfectionism. I recognize the challenging cycle of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, obsessive doubt, avoidance, and compulsions, and can help provide some guidance around becoming “unstuck” from difficult patterns that are no longer serving you. If you struggle with using substances or other behavioral addictions to cope, and are wanting to set some goals surrounding your use, I am dually licensed to treat co-occuring substance use as well.
I enjoy working with clients struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, and perfectionism. I recognize the challenging cycle of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, obsessive doubt, avoidance, and compulsions, and can help provide some guidance around becoming “unstuck” from difficult patterns that are no longer serving you. If you struggle with using substances or other behavioral addictions to cope, and are wanting to set some goals surrounding your use, I am dually licensed to treat co-occuring substance use as well.
(704) 368-3383 View (704) 368-3383
Photo of Diego F Chiluisa, Counselor, LMHC
Diego F Chiluisa
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand that the terms "counseling" and "therapy" can be very broad and may mean different things to different people. If you haven't had prior experience, it can feel intimidating at first. Even if you have experienced counseling before, you might be surprised by the variety of therapeutic approaches available. I want you to know that I am here to support you with your current needs. I view counseling as a collaborative relationship where you take the lead in determining the direction of your journey. I sit beside you, helping to highlight important details, providing useful information, or simply offering support.
I understand that the terms "counseling" and "therapy" can be very broad and may mean different things to different people. If you haven't had prior experience, it can feel intimidating at first. Even if you have experienced counseling before, you might be surprised by the variety of therapeutic approaches available. I want you to know that I am here to support you with your current needs. I view counseling as a collaborative relationship where you take the lead in determining the direction of your journey. I sit beside you, helping to highlight important details, providing useful information, or simply offering support.
(347) 427-5355 View (347) 427-5355
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See more therapy options for Charlotte

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Charlotte, NC

3,000+

Average cost per session

$142

Therapists in Charlotte, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
69% Relationship Issues
68% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Charlotte, NC see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Charlotte?

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.