Therapists in Johnston County, NC

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Photo of Julie C Bullock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Julie C Bullock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 18 years of clinical experience, I love getting to come alongside each of my clients to help in their healing journey. I primarily work with those struggling with anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, stress, grief, phase of life adjustments, etc. Counseling is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. I pull from many different therapeutic approaches but some of my favorites are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment, Family Systems Theory and Faith-based/Biblical Counseling.
With over 18 years of clinical experience, I love getting to come alongside each of my clients to help in their healing journey. I primarily work with those struggling with anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, stress, grief, phase of life adjustments, etc. Counseling is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. I pull from many different therapeutic approaches but some of my favorites are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment, Family Systems Theory and Faith-based/Biblical Counseling.
(919) 635-5821 View (919) 635-5821
Photo of Judy Holland, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, EMDR, AAI, NPT-C
Judy Holland
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, EMDR, AAI, NPT-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe that each person is unique and I am flexible in my approach to each client's needs. I specialize in trauma and trauma related disorders. This includes PTSD, crisis, anxiety, grief, loss, child sexual abuse, low self-esteem, low self-worth, and other trauma related symptoms. I especially enjoy working with emergency service workers who are exposed to repeated trauma in their jobs, however I do not limit my practice to those workers. It can be hard to admit needing help, but sometimes we do. Call for help today and get the help you deserve from a caring compassionate counselor.
I believe that each person is unique and I am flexible in my approach to each client's needs. I specialize in trauma and trauma related disorders. This includes PTSD, crisis, anxiety, grief, loss, child sexual abuse, low self-esteem, low self-worth, and other trauma related symptoms. I especially enjoy working with emergency service workers who are exposed to repeated trauma in their jobs, however I do not limit my practice to those workers. It can be hard to admit needing help, but sometimes we do. Call for help today and get the help you deserve from a caring compassionate counselor.
(919) 583-6282 View (919) 583-6282
Photo of Ashleigh Storm Weckesser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ashleigh Storm Weckesser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520
Ashleigh Weckesser is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s degree from Meredith College. She has experience working in-patient as well as out-patient with both individuals and groups. Ashleigh works with young adults, adults, couples, and the geriatric population, with evidenced based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She has experience with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness.
Ashleigh Weckesser is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s degree from Meredith College. She has experience working in-patient as well as out-patient with both individuals and groups. Ashleigh works with young adults, adults, couples, and the geriatric population, with evidenced based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She has experience with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness.
(919) 514-4387 View (919) 514-4387
Photo of Lori M. DeBlaker - DeBlaker Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
DeBlaker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Appointments available for telehealth services in NC and FL. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, or a diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain or becoming a caregiver for a family member can cause immense stress, anxiety and even grief/loss.
Appointments available for telehealth services in NC and FL. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, or a diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain or becoming a caregiver for a family member can cause immense stress, anxiety and even grief/loss.
(919) 629-9045 View (919) 629-9045
Photo of Heather Lockey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Heather Lockey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, work stress, self-worth, or identity concerns, I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll identify your strengths and develop strategies to help you create meaningful change. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming space where you can heal, grow, and move toward the life you envision.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, work stress, self-worth, or identity concerns, I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll identify your strengths and develop strategies to help you create meaningful change. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming space where you can heal, grow, and move toward the life you envision.
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Photo of Christina Jones, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Christina Jones
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Princeton, NC 27569
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, hopeless, or worried, and maybe you are struggling to cope with life's difficulties? If so, it would be my privilege to work with you! We will collaborate and form a treatment plan that works best for you, and work toward forming your best self. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, interpersonal difficulties, marital, and family issues. My background and training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, hopeless, or worried, and maybe you are struggling to cope with life's difficulties? If so, it would be my privilege to work with you! We will collaborate and form a treatment plan that works best for you, and work toward forming your best self. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, interpersonal difficulties, marital, and family issues. My background and training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(919) 372-4483 View (919) 372-4483
Photo of Mary Katherine Husted - Katie Husted, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Katie Husted, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! My name is Katie Husted and I am a licensed clinical social worker who is honored to work with women in all walks of life. The general areas that I help in are: anxiety and depression, setting healthy boundaries, motherhood, work/life balance, getting "unstuck", and navigating relationships (friendships, family, romantic). More recently, I have focused on furthering my education and training in the perinatal and postpartum periods of motherhood. Since becoming a mother, as well as working with mothers, I am passionate about helping women feel supported in remaining true to themselves as they enter into this new role.
Hi! My name is Katie Husted and I am a licensed clinical social worker who is honored to work with women in all walks of life. The general areas that I help in are: anxiety and depression, setting healthy boundaries, motherhood, work/life balance, getting "unstuck", and navigating relationships (friendships, family, romantic). More recently, I have focused on furthering my education and training in the perinatal and postpartum periods of motherhood. Since becoming a mother, as well as working with mothers, I am passionate about helping women feel supported in remaining true to themselves as they enter into this new role.
(919) 373-6330 View (919) 373-6330
Photo of Karen Driggers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Karen Driggers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520
Waitlist for new clients
Knowing suffering and struggle are common to all, I strive to provide hope and direction for people as they face real-world challenges. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and emotional instability, as well as concerns with unhealthy/low self-concept, anger/frustration, relational challenges, life transitions, grief/loss, and spiritual concerns may feel overwhelming. Acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength and is a step toward a preferred future. My goal is to foster a safe, comfortable, and accepting atmosphere in which clients can be honest and open, relationships develop, and the work of healing begins.
Knowing suffering and struggle are common to all, I strive to provide hope and direction for people as they face real-world challenges. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and emotional instability, as well as concerns with unhealthy/low self-concept, anger/frustration, relational challenges, life transitions, grief/loss, and spiritual concerns may feel overwhelming. Acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength and is a step toward a preferred future. My goal is to foster a safe, comfortable, and accepting atmosphere in which clients can be honest and open, relationships develop, and the work of healing begins.
(984) 230-4834 View (984) 230-4834
Photo of Claire Hayes - Healing with Hayes, PLLC, Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC, LCAS
Healing with Hayes, PLLC
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life is hard. Have you tried dealing with life your way and ready to try a new way? My clients are looking to be heard and to learn how to live life the way they want to. Talking with a counselor has numerous benefits, such as having a place to have your experience validated, while discussing topics of your choice. If you need an passionate counselor, who will support you through it, I'm the counselor for you! If you feel stuck, challenged by stress, feel free to contact me and set up a consultation.
Life is hard. Have you tried dealing with life your way and ready to try a new way? My clients are looking to be heard and to learn how to live life the way they want to. Talking with a counselor has numerous benefits, such as having a place to have your experience validated, while discussing topics of your choice. If you need an passionate counselor, who will support you through it, I'm the counselor for you! If you feel stuck, challenged by stress, feel free to contact me and set up a consultation.
(984) 223-0378 View (984) 223-0378
Photo of Patrice Horton, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Patrice Horton
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been worried, anxious and or depressed? Have past experiences left you feeling stuck and unable to reach your full potential? Are you noticing repetitive and intrusive thoughts that affect your everyday life causing you to feel as if your emotions are spiraling out of control? Perhaps it’s from anxiety, trauma or other life events. As humans, we all face challenges that cause us to feel overwhelmingly distressed and create a sense of imbalance in our lives. Whatever your concern, there is hope! As a therapist, I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion.
Have you been worried, anxious and or depressed? Have past experiences left you feeling stuck and unable to reach your full potential? Are you noticing repetitive and intrusive thoughts that affect your everyday life causing you to feel as if your emotions are spiraling out of control? Perhaps it’s from anxiety, trauma or other life events. As humans, we all face challenges that cause us to feel overwhelmingly distressed and create a sense of imbalance in our lives. Whatever your concern, there is hope! As a therapist, I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion.
(919) 351-6721 View (919) 351-6721
Photo of Mervin Edward Kurtz, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mervin Edward Kurtz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
Discover a Life of Hope, Purpose, and Fulfillment! Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Imagine a life where you can overcome obstacles, find clarity, and move toward a future filled with hope and meaning. That transformation is possible, and counseling can be the key to unlocking it. I’m here to guide you through the journey of self-discovery and healing.
Discover a Life of Hope, Purpose, and Fulfillment! Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Imagine a life where you can overcome obstacles, find clarity, and move toward a future filled with hope and meaning. That transformation is possible, and counseling can be the key to unlocking it. I’m here to guide you through the journey of self-discovery and healing.
(984) 230-9021 View (984) 230-9021
Photo of Katie Catton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Katie Catton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am currently providing outpatient therapy virtually and in person in Clayton, NC. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018, and my Masters in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2014. I have around 14 years of experience helping adults, teens and families in crisis. My passion lies with helping clients believe that no matter their past, they are worthy of love and a positive future.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am currently providing outpatient therapy virtually and in person in Clayton, NC. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018, and my Masters in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2014. I have around 14 years of experience helping adults, teens and families in crisis. My passion lies with helping clients believe that no matter their past, they are worthy of love and a positive future.
(984) 265-8549 View (984) 265-8549
Photo of Lauren Sadler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lauren Sadler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing outpatient therapy virtually and in-person. I entered this profession with my own trauma history that has informed my therapeutic approach, and I strive to create a space where others can share their experiences. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults living with trauma, anxiety, depression, and family relationship challenges. Outside of the therapy office, I have experience working with adolescents, families, and older adults within the child/adult welfare systems, as well as with family members of individuals battling addiction.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing outpatient therapy virtually and in-person. I entered this profession with my own trauma history that has informed my therapeutic approach, and I strive to create a space where others can share their experiences. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults living with trauma, anxiety, depression, and family relationship challenges. Outside of the therapy office, I have experience working with adolescents, families, and older adults within the child/adult welfare systems, as well as with family members of individuals battling addiction.
(919) 343-9665 View (919) 343-9665
Photo of Tiara A. Nichole Griffis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, BCC
Tiara A. Nichole Griffis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, BCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27527
Have you been feeling the urge to begin a therapeutic journey? I am here to help! My goal is to assist you with your life goals and help you find a healthy way to process your past traumas so you can live out your best future. By utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate to help you reach your desired goals.
Have you been feeling the urge to begin a therapeutic journey? I am here to help! My goal is to assist you with your life goals and help you find a healthy way to process your past traumas so you can live out your best future. By utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate to help you reach your desired goals.
(919) 301-9983 View (919) 301-9983
Photo of Karen Tremblay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Karen Tremblay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Karen Tremblay, I am an experienced clinical social worker with licensure in NC, SC, and FL. I believe in providing goal-directed collaborative therapy focusing on change as constant and certain. You are the expert of your life experiences and have the resources and strengths to overcome barriers to your wellness. I assist clients with learning skills that assist with managing and tolerating challenging and uncomfortable situations, identifying and developing achievable goals, and improving and enhancing personal resilience.
My name is Karen Tremblay, I am an experienced clinical social worker with licensure in NC, SC, and FL. I believe in providing goal-directed collaborative therapy focusing on change as constant and certain. You are the expert of your life experiences and have the resources and strengths to overcome barriers to your wellness. I assist clients with learning skills that assist with managing and tolerating challenging and uncomfortable situations, identifying and developing achievable goals, and improving and enhancing personal resilience.
(254) 892-4536 View (254) 892-4536
Photo of Phillip C. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCATP
Phillip C. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
(984) 646-5617 View (984) 646-5617
Photo of Rob Young, LPMHC, LCAS
Rob Young
LPMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
Coming into therapy is a bold move, usually preceded by trying other things first to address the problem(s). I’m curious about those things, and what examination of those efforts might do to reveal your own strengths in problem solving. I’m also curious about who matters to you, and what those relationships are like; how they provide support on a day to day basis, and during times of high stress. Perhaps exploring these topcis together can assist in establishing a positive direction for change, and add and ally for making those changes.
Coming into therapy is a bold move, usually preceded by trying other things first to address the problem(s). I’m curious about those things, and what examination of those efforts might do to reveal your own strengths in problem solving. I’m also curious about who matters to you, and what those relationships are like; how they provide support on a day to day basis, and during times of high stress. Perhaps exploring these topcis together can assist in establishing a positive direction for change, and add and ally for making those changes.
(919) 335-5365 View (919) 335-5365
Photo of DeOveon Fuentes Sutton, Pre-Licensed Professional
DeOveon Fuentes Sutton
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
While I strive to help others, marriage, couples, families, and mental health treatment, my main focus is to make the client feel important. I seek this profession because I found myself wanting to help and letting individuals express themselves vocally. I look forward to this new journey in counseling and it will be a privilege to serve individuals at their most vulnerable time in need.
While I strive to help others, marriage, couples, families, and mental health treatment, my main focus is to make the client feel important. I seek this profession because I found myself wanting to help and letting individuals express themselves vocally. I look forward to this new journey in counseling and it will be a privilege to serve individuals at their most vulnerable time in need.
(984) 646-6094 View (984) 646-6094
Photo of Melissa Penley, Counselor, LCMHCA
Melissa Penley
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
I desire to be a therapist that provides the space and place for someone to walk into the counseling room and can know that they are seen and heard. I love working with children, teens and adults. I utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques and a variety of other methods to help each person that enters into my office. I know that beginning a therapeutic relationship is not an easy task, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.
I desire to be a therapist that provides the space and place for someone to walk into the counseling room and can know that they are seen and heard. I love working with children, teens and adults. I utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques and a variety of other methods to help each person that enters into my office. I know that beginning a therapeutic relationship is not an easy task, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.
(919) 336-0668 View (919) 336-0668
Photo of Mary Ray-Council, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, CADC, SAP, ADETS, CCS
Mary Ray-Council
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, CADC, SAP, ADETS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Rays of Hope Ministries is a Ministry of Helps organization. A place of support for people experiencing problems in life. Rays of Hope Ministries believe in second chances and encouraging hope. We offer support for spiritual, emotional, substance and other behavioral problems. Services offered include Assessments, Counseling and Case Management. We provide: DWI, DOT SAP, and Substance Abuse Assessments/Evaluations; Addiction, and Christian Counseling; Referral, and Linkage to supportive services.
Rays of Hope Ministries is a Ministry of Helps organization. A place of support for people experiencing problems in life. Rays of Hope Ministries believe in second chances and encouraging hope. We offer support for spiritual, emotional, substance and other behavioral problems. Services offered include Assessments, Counseling and Case Management. We provide: DWI, DOT SAP, and Substance Abuse Assessments/Evaluations; Addiction, and Christian Counseling; Referral, and Linkage to supportive services.
(984) 464-7905 View (984) 464-7905

See more therapy options for Johnston County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Johnston County, NC

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Johnston County, NC who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
88% Anxiety
81% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
72% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
90% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Johnston County, NC see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Johnston County?

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.