Therapists in Northampton County, NC

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Photo of Helen Kafer Varnadoe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Helen Kafer Varnadoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Gaston, NC 27832
Are you seeking Christian-based therapy? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression/mood disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder? Are you a caretaker in need of support? Facing the challenges of aging? Or are you battling with addictions to substances? pornography, sex? Or maybe you need an evaluation or help for sex-offending behavior or interests? I'm here to listen to you, hear your struggles, and help you have a more abundant life. I believe together we can identify your goals and develop a plan for success.
Are you seeking Christian-based therapy? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression/mood disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder? Are you a caretaker in need of support? Facing the challenges of aging? Or are you battling with addictions to substances? pornography, sex? Or maybe you need an evaluation or help for sex-offending behavior or interests? I'm here to listen to you, hear your struggles, and help you have a more abundant life. I believe together we can identify your goals and develop a plan for success.
(252) 410-3363 View (252) 410-3363
Photo of Debra Ann Rhodes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Debra Ann Rhodes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to provide a brave place for individuals to process through thoughts and emotions that may be affecting their daily functioning and quality of life. My social work and clinical experience allows me to provide guidance through struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and the transitions life brings us. By allowing clients to be the experts of their own lives promotes a better understanding of where they want their life path to go and how they can successfully reach their goals!
My goal is to provide a brave place for individuals to process through thoughts and emotions that may be affecting their daily functioning and quality of life. My social work and clinical experience allows me to provide guidance through struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and the transitions life brings us. By allowing clients to be the experts of their own lives promotes a better understanding of where they want their life path to go and how they can successfully reach their goals!
(910) 335-2729 View (910) 335-2729

Online Therapists

Photo of Hope Kalainikas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, CTP
Hope Kalainikas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The beautiful thing about therapy is that everyone has unique experiences, so it only makes sense that therapy will look a little different for everyone. In the same way that individuals differ, therapists differ as well. It is always my priority to provide a safe, comfortable, welcoming environment where you feel secure in navigating life’s many ups and downs. You’ll find that I also show up to the therapy room with authenticity, compassion, acceptance, and sometimes a little humor. I enjoy taking a laid back, curious approach to therapy so I can work to more fully understand an individual’s unique lived experience.
The beautiful thing about therapy is that everyone has unique experiences, so it only makes sense that therapy will look a little different for everyone. In the same way that individuals differ, therapists differ as well. It is always my priority to provide a safe, comfortable, welcoming environment where you feel secure in navigating life’s many ups and downs. You’ll find that I also show up to the therapy room with authenticity, compassion, acceptance, and sometimes a little humor. I enjoy taking a laid back, curious approach to therapy so I can work to more fully understand an individual’s unique lived experience.
(984) 600-6136 View (984) 600-6136
Photo of Hannah Webb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hannah Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilson, NC 27896
Do you feel worried for your child? Is it hard to understand why he behaves the way he does? Do you worry that family stressors are bleeding into her life and well-being? As a child therapist, one thing I hear many parents say, is that they feel their child is having to navigate adult-size problems and stressors at an earlier age than they ever had to. And, they’re right!
Do you feel worried for your child? Is it hard to understand why he behaves the way he does? Do you worry that family stressors are bleeding into her life and well-being? As a child therapist, one thing I hear many parents say, is that they feel their child is having to navigate adult-size problems and stressors at an earlier age than they ever had to. And, they’re right!
(252) 486-5373 View (252) 486-5373
Photo of Karen Barbee, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHC
Karen Barbee
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Dr. Karen Davis S10075. I have been licensed for 11 years in NC. I am a person-centered therapist and my main areas of focus are developing a healthier self-esteem, decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and working with my clients from a strengths-based approach. The environment of my sessions is very relaxed. I seek to build a trusting relationship with my clients where they feel comfortable to share and be who they authentically are without any fear of judgment.
Hi, my name is Dr. Karen Davis S10075. I have been licensed for 11 years in NC. I am a person-centered therapist and my main areas of focus are developing a healthier self-esteem, decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and working with my clients from a strengths-based approach. The environment of my sessions is very relaxed. I seek to build a trusting relationship with my clients where they feel comfortable to share and be who they authentically are without any fear of judgment.
(980) 340-7864 View (980) 340-7864
Photo of Tovon Hamilton, Counselor, NCC, LCMHCA, LCASA
Tovon Hamilton
Counselor, NCC, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
A renewed mind can change your life! Deciding to seek therapy can be life changing. Counseling should be an experience that allows you to think of your life and circumstances in a way that promotes positive changes. Choosing me as your counselor, I will be your partner dedicated to providing unconditional positive regard, and empathetic listening, to guide you on your journey of lasting change for a brighter, and happier future.
A renewed mind can change your life! Deciding to seek therapy can be life changing. Counseling should be an experience that allows you to think of your life and circumstances in a way that promotes positive changes. Choosing me as your counselor, I will be your partner dedicated to providing unconditional positive regard, and empathetic listening, to guide you on your journey of lasting change for a brighter, and happier future.
(919) 429-8656 View (919) 429-8656
Photo of Tim Donahoe - Tim Donahoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Tim Donahoe, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Breaking patterns is hard, but you know you want change and meaningful redirection. Painful memories and recurrent conflict can strain relationships. Work stress gets in the way of being present and feeling fulfilled. People often work with me to get things moving when they feel blocked or stuck, to develop calm where uncertainty has them off balance. Our work will reveal insight to restore stability, address trauma, and change outlook towards realizing an improved sense of self. Together we can work to identify and harness strength, addressing challenges with new clarity and inspiration.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Breaking patterns is hard, but you know you want change and meaningful redirection. Painful memories and recurrent conflict can strain relationships. Work stress gets in the way of being present and feeling fulfilled. People often work with me to get things moving when they feel blocked or stuck, to develop calm where uncertainty has them off balance. Our work will reveal insight to restore stability, address trauma, and change outlook towards realizing an improved sense of self. Together we can work to identify and harness strength, addressing challenges with new clarity and inspiration.
(984) 369-8046 View (984) 369-8046
Photo of Lari Jackson, Psychologist, PsyD, LP, HSP-P
Lari Jackson
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently accepting one or two new clients. Sometimes life is hard! If you are experiencing anxiety, difficulties with motivation, feelings of isolation, or depression, you don’t need to manage it all on your own. Having the support of an experienced, caring, and authentic professional may help. Together we'll explore situations, patterns, and behaviors that may not work for you and look for alternatives that fit your goals. Considering your values and priorities, we will work collaboratively to develop a plan to help you feel more satisfied with life.
I am currently accepting one or two new clients. Sometimes life is hard! If you are experiencing anxiety, difficulties with motivation, feelings of isolation, or depression, you don’t need to manage it all on your own. Having the support of an experienced, caring, and authentic professional may help. Together we'll explore situations, patterns, and behaviors that may not work for you and look for alternatives that fit your goals. Considering your values and priorities, we will work collaboratively to develop a plan to help you feel more satisfied with life.
(984) 789-3242 View (984) 789-3242
Photo of Trent Morrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Trent Morrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Life can be hard, with many ups and downs, all the unknowns, especially in today’s world. My passion is helping those with anxiety and depression, providing high-quality, effective, evidence-based treatment with children, adolescents, and adults. I’ve worked as a licensed therapist for 20 years and my practice uses an outside the box approach when it comes to therapy.
Life can be hard, with many ups and downs, all the unknowns, especially in today’s world. My passion is helping those with anxiety and depression, providing high-quality, effective, evidence-based treatment with children, adolescents, and adults. I’ve worked as a licensed therapist for 20 years and my practice uses an outside the box approach when it comes to therapy.
(704) 310-5788 View (704) 310-5788
Photo of Victoria Snow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Victoria Snow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling to find your place in the world? Do you feel self-doubt, hopeless, and on-edge? That anxious voice inside your head may be telling you that everyone else has it "figured out". You feel like you're not good enough. I know how heavy, frightening, and isolating that can feel. I have experience working with an array of concerns including life transitions, anxiety disorders, trauma, stress management, relationship stress, and the unique needs of adolescents and young adults. My specialty area of Dialectical Behavior Therapy training and Mindfulness will help you (or your loved one) cope with many kinds of challenges.
Are you struggling to find your place in the world? Do you feel self-doubt, hopeless, and on-edge? That anxious voice inside your head may be telling you that everyone else has it "figured out". You feel like you're not good enough. I know how heavy, frightening, and isolating that can feel. I have experience working with an array of concerns including life transitions, anxiety disorders, trauma, stress management, relationship stress, and the unique needs of adolescents and young adults. My specialty area of Dialectical Behavior Therapy training and Mindfulness will help you (or your loved one) cope with many kinds of challenges.
(919) 877-6151 View (919) 877-6151
Photo of Kelly Cleon Henson - Soar for Change/Kelly C Henson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, CMIP, SBRM, Reiki, M
Soar for Change/Kelly C Henson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, CMIP, SBRM, Reiki, M
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27527
Anyone wanting to examine, explore and express/develop new thoughts and the leading to new behaviors. We can do the journey together. The journey of growing up can be challenging and teamwork can/will make the journey easier. "Do or do not, there is no try", Is the thought. Learning to have fun while living in the, F.U.N. (Forever Unending Now) is an impactful and mindful-catching experience. Let's do the journey together. "Life is Good and Learning to Live Life is even BETTER". I greatly appreciate it if you were to invite me to join you on your journey of investigating and developing "self-care plans".
Anyone wanting to examine, explore and express/develop new thoughts and the leading to new behaviors. We can do the journey together. The journey of growing up can be challenging and teamwork can/will make the journey easier. "Do or do not, there is no try", Is the thought. Learning to have fun while living in the, F.U.N. (Forever Unending Now) is an impactful and mindful-catching experience. Let's do the journey together. "Life is Good and Learning to Live Life is even BETTER". I greatly appreciate it if you were to invite me to join you on your journey of investigating and developing "self-care plans".
(984) 409-9554 View (984) 409-9554
Photo of A. Kristian Wallace-Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
A. Kristian Wallace-Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
When life becomes unpredictable and overwhelming it can feel isolating and lonely. As a therapist, my goal is to ensure that each client feels heard, validated and safe, always knowing that there is someone there to listen and provide support. At times, we can feel that we need to hide our anxiety, depression, relational issues and worries. I offer a place where you are able to fully be yourself, where it is okay, not to be okay. My goal for each session is for you to feel supported and empowered to overcome obstacles and create an environment that promotes positive change.
When life becomes unpredictable and overwhelming it can feel isolating and lonely. As a therapist, my goal is to ensure that each client feels heard, validated and safe, always knowing that there is someone there to listen and provide support. At times, we can feel that we need to hide our anxiety, depression, relational issues and worries. I offer a place where you are able to fully be yourself, where it is okay, not to be okay. My goal for each session is for you to feel supported and empowered to overcome obstacles and create an environment that promotes positive change.
(252) 300-0785 View (252) 300-0785
Photo of Kristen Thomas, Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Kristen Thomas
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Hi there! Play focused therapist here who would love to chat about how therapy can be both impactful and FUN. I am currently accepting clients of all ages but looking to fill more morning and day slots. My sweet spot with client includes adhd, anxiety, grief, stress, and overall challenges related to foster care/adoption. I also offer faith based integration from a Christian perspective by request!
Hi there! Play focused therapist here who would love to chat about how therapy can be both impactful and FUN. I am currently accepting clients of all ages but looking to fill more morning and day slots. My sweet spot with client includes adhd, anxiety, grief, stress, and overall challenges related to foster care/adoption. I also offer faith based integration from a Christian perspective by request!
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Photo of Nancy Capel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nancy Capel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been working as an LCSW for the last 31 years. I have been fortunate to work with patients of all diagnoses, including comorbid substance abuse and mental health conditions. I have expertise in working with patients who have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, grief, LGBTQIA+ issues, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, and job-related challenges.
I have been working as an LCSW for the last 31 years. I have been fortunate to work with patients of all diagnoses, including comorbid substance abuse and mental health conditions. I have expertise in working with patients who have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, grief, LGBTQIA+ issues, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, and job-related challenges.
(984) 230-9223 View (984) 230-9223
Photo of Regan McKenna Harker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Regan McKenna Harker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, and a warm welcome:) I’m Regan Harker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering tele-health in VA and NC. My clients arrive in therapy struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression. They might be questioning where they fit, but with skills learned in our time together, they begin to confront their issues and reach better mental health. I am person-centered, goal-oriented, and arrive at each session with an open mind and bright attitude. You will feel heard, understood, engaged and connected. I will help you learn to solve your problems, and develop sustainable skills to make fundamental life changes.
Hello, and a warm welcome:) I’m Regan Harker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering tele-health in VA and NC. My clients arrive in therapy struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression. They might be questioning where they fit, but with skills learned in our time together, they begin to confront their issues and reach better mental health. I am person-centered, goal-oriented, and arrive at each session with an open mind and bright attitude. You will feel heard, understood, engaged and connected. I will help you learn to solve your problems, and develop sustainable skills to make fundamental life changes.
(540) 530-3779 View (540) 530-3779
Photo of Mark J Bertelsen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Mark J Bertelsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Video on Website Link - Accepting new clients early a.m. 7am- 9 am. - I believe life should be a lot easier then it is. We all get pushed past our limits that challenge who we think we are. The pressure changes us into different people. How do we get past reacting to life and get on to living life intentionally? The answer is not easy, because there are many factors that fracture our attention, steal our resources, and prevent progress. My job is to help change these factors to set you up for success and aid in defining what success means for you.
Video on Website Link - Accepting new clients early a.m. 7am- 9 am. - I believe life should be a lot easier then it is. We all get pushed past our limits that challenge who we think we are. The pressure changes us into different people. How do we get past reacting to life and get on to living life intentionally? The answer is not easy, because there are many factors that fracture our attention, steal our resources, and prevent progress. My job is to help change these factors to set you up for success and aid in defining what success means for you.
(919) 351-8487 View (919) 351-8487
Photo of Tequila Sanford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Tequila Sanford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in exploration and facilitating an understanding of the connection between mind, body and soul to achieve deep healing with my clients. I will incorporate humor, as appropriate, which has yielded great results, as it allows my clients to feel more relaxed. Serious challenges don’t have to be addressed in a stringent, cold manner. I am accepting new clients for telehealth sessions and am available for evening appointments. Please reach out to Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness PLLC to schedule. You may call 919-355-9792 or go to our website and complete the "contact us" form to get started.
I believe in exploration and facilitating an understanding of the connection between mind, body and soul to achieve deep healing with my clients. I will incorporate humor, as appropriate, which has yielded great results, as it allows my clients to feel more relaxed. Serious challenges don’t have to be addressed in a stringent, cold manner. I am accepting new clients for telehealth sessions and am available for evening appointments. Please reach out to Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness PLLC to schedule. You may call 919-355-9792 or go to our website and complete the "contact us" form to get started.
(984) 422-3912 View (984) 422-3912
Photo of Dr. Zulma Sella Nieves, Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Dr. Zulma Sella Nieves
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Online Only
Yes, I speak Spanish. / Sí, hablo Español.
Yes, I speak Spanish. / Sí, hablo Español.
(984) 230-3632 View (984) 230-3632
Photo of Laura Brightwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, M-Div
Laura Brightwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, M-Div
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
For decades, I've helped people find new paths through their life challenges. By developing a deep client relationship, applying complementary therapeutic approaches, my goal is to help YOU uncover your true potential and power to live a life you enjoy. Do you doubt that is possible? Therapy may consist of practicing skills related to social and emotional learning and learning how your beliefs about life effect everything. Uncovering and navigating your life stories - telling those stories over and over - of depression, trauma, anxiety, loss, and stress helps YOU figure out YOUR path. Want to try?
For decades, I've helped people find new paths through their life challenges. By developing a deep client relationship, applying complementary therapeutic approaches, my goal is to help YOU uncover your true potential and power to live a life you enjoy. Do you doubt that is possible? Therapy may consist of practicing skills related to social and emotional learning and learning how your beliefs about life effect everything. Uncovering and navigating your life stories - telling those stories over and over - of depression, trauma, anxiety, loss, and stress helps YOU figure out YOUR path. Want to try?
(919) 666-2083 View (919) 666-2083
Photo of Shawnta Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Shawnta Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS # S7739) & the owner of Mindful Bodies LLC, in Durham NC. I provide clinical supervision to LCMHCAs, mental health counseling to other therapists & to individuals, couples & groups. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Counseling & other modalities to help my clients resolve concerns including, but not limited to, sexual assault , domestic violence, BLM & LGBTQIA related concerns, stress management, anxiety, depression, parenting & couples skills, life-work balance, body image, self image, eating disorders & general weight management.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS # S7739) & the owner of Mindful Bodies LLC, in Durham NC. I provide clinical supervision to LCMHCAs, mental health counseling to other therapists & to individuals, couples & groups. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Counseling & other modalities to help my clients resolve concerns including, but not limited to, sexual assault , domestic violence, BLM & LGBTQIA related concerns, stress management, anxiety, depression, parenting & couples skills, life-work balance, body image, self image, eating disorders & general weight management.
(919) 551-3459 View (919) 551-3459

See more therapy options for Northampton County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Northampton County, NC

< 10

Therapists in Northampton County, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
50% Domestic Abuse
50% Geriatric and Seniors
50% Grief
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Northampton County, NC see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Northampton 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.