Therapists in Swain County, NC

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Photo of Zachary Behm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Zachary Behm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Bryson City, NC 28713
I’m Zach, and I’ve been a therapist for 9 years. My approach is laid-back, conversational, direct and challenging. I believe therapy should be a safe, open space where you feel comfortable being yourself, without fear of judgment. I hold no place for judgement in my life or my work. I’m want to hear and help you tell your story. Lets explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that feels real and meaningful to help you reach your goals. Therapy isn’t just a clinical process; it’s a collaborative journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery.
I’m Zach, and I’ve been a therapist for 9 years. My approach is laid-back, conversational, direct and challenging. I believe therapy should be a safe, open space where you feel comfortable being yourself, without fear of judgment. I hold no place for judgement in my life or my work. I’m want to hear and help you tell your story. Lets explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that feels real and meaningful to help you reach your goals. Therapy isn’t just a clinical process; it’s a collaborative journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery.
(828) 660-0903 View (828) 660-0903
Photo of Tom Wilmot, Counselor, MS, LPC
Tom Wilmot
Counselor, MS, LPC
Bryson City, NC 28713
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Telehealth - available) Discussing personal challenges can often be difficult. The fact is that "life can be difficult", and there are times we all requre help "aligning our compass". Finding a therapist can be an important step in one's search for a "life worth living". For 10 years I have worked to develop compassion and empathy in assisting individuals and the families that have solicited my support in meeting the challenges and stressful situations that seems to be an unavoidable part of life.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Telehealth - available) Discussing personal challenges can often be difficult. The fact is that "life can be difficult", and there are times we all requre help "aligning our compass". Finding a therapist can be an important step in one's search for a "life worth living". For 10 years I have worked to develop compassion and empathy in assisting individuals and the families that have solicited my support in meeting the challenges and stressful situations that seems to be an unavoidable part of life.
(678) 984-7676 View (678) 984-7676
Photo of Melissa Swanson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMBT
Melissa Swanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMBT
1 Endorsed
Bryson City, NC 28713
By combining somatic and cognitive tools, we’ll identify triggers, unpack stories your mind tells you, and create a personalized plan with practical techniques to manage anxiety effectively. You’ll develop strategies to calm your body and mind, reducing stress and overwhelm. Using body-based practices alongside CBT, we’ll address depression’s emotional and physical components. Together, we’ll work to restore balance and reconnect with hope, joy, and purpose while building sustainable self-care practices.
By combining somatic and cognitive tools, we’ll identify triggers, unpack stories your mind tells you, and create a personalized plan with practical techniques to manage anxiety effectively. You’ll develop strategies to calm your body and mind, reducing stress and overwhelm. Using body-based practices alongside CBT, we’ll address depression’s emotional and physical components. Together, we’ll work to restore balance and reconnect with hope, joy, and purpose while building sustainable self-care practices.
(828) 929-0415 View (828) 929-0415
Photo of Nancy J Marts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nancy J Marts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bryson City, NC 28713
Not accepting new clients
I see life as a journey. Sometimes we get in a rut and have difficulty getting out, or sometimes we think we are on the right road and things turn out differently than expected, leaving us devastated and not knowing how or what to change. At times, we are unaware of our repeated patterns or how early life experiences have affected us. We usually do the best we can with what skills we have. Sometimes, we have to change our unhelpful coping skills and develop strategies and skills that will help us be happier and more functional people. Life is a journey, let's take it one step at a time.
I see life as a journey. Sometimes we get in a rut and have difficulty getting out, or sometimes we think we are on the right road and things turn out differently than expected, leaving us devastated and not knowing how or what to change. At times, we are unaware of our repeated patterns or how early life experiences have affected us. We usually do the best we can with what skills we have. Sometimes, we have to change our unhelpful coping skills and develop strategies and skills that will help us be happier and more functional people. Life is a journey, let's take it one step at a time.
(828) 492-3207 View (828) 492-3207
Photo of Kelly “Zoe ” Pruitt, Counselor, LCMHC
Kelly “Zoe ” Pruitt
Counselor, LCMHC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I consider my therapeutic approach as “eclectic” and draws upon multiple theoretical orientations and techniques, including behavioral and person-centered therapy. This therapeutic approach can help patients in dealing with anxiety, depression, eating & personality disorders, trauma, and many other issues. My relatable and “non-judgmental” approach includes developing a trusting clinical alliance early on in the treatment process with clients.
I consider my therapeutic approach as “eclectic” and draws upon multiple theoretical orientations and techniques, including behavioral and person-centered therapy. This therapeutic approach can help patients in dealing with anxiety, depression, eating & personality disorders, trauma, and many other issues. My relatable and “non-judgmental” approach includes developing a trusting clinical alliance early on in the treatment process with clients.
(984) 300-3936 View (984) 300-3936
Photo of Brooke Leann Coggins, Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Brooke Leann Coggins
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Fun and empathetic therapist here to help you navigate life's challenges. My goal is to provide you with a space free of judgment and full of support no matter what you are going through. If it is processing grief, needing someone to vent too, or learning new skills, I am here for you. I am here to support you as a team finding ways you can live the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life that you deserve. I help facilitate healing while also getting to the root of what's bringing chaos in your life. I meet my clients where they are at mentally and emotionally. You are individual and unique and I tailor each session to meet your needs.
Fun and empathetic therapist here to help you navigate life's challenges. My goal is to provide you with a space free of judgment and full of support no matter what you are going through. If it is processing grief, needing someone to vent too, or learning new skills, I am here for you. I am here to support you as a team finding ways you can live the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life that you deserve. I help facilitate healing while also getting to the root of what's bringing chaos in your life. I meet my clients where they are at mentally and emotionally. You are individual and unique and I tailor each session to meet your needs.
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Photo of Jennifer Harr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Harr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I believe in accessible community mental health. I work at Cornbread & Roses Community Counseling. As a therapist, I tend to work with folks like me who are neurodivergent, queer. AND figuring out how to be a human, partner, friend, and community member. I also work with loved ones who seek to understand us. I meet my clients where they are, and navigate understanding the world alongside them. Right now, our identities are under attack, and we need to figure out the best coping strategies we can. Remember, you are not alone.
I believe in accessible community mental health. I work at Cornbread & Roses Community Counseling. As a therapist, I tend to work with folks like me who are neurodivergent, queer. AND figuring out how to be a human, partner, friend, and community member. I also work with loved ones who seek to understand us. I meet my clients where they are, and navigate understanding the world alongside them. Right now, our identities are under attack, and we need to figure out the best coping strategies we can. Remember, you are not alone.
(828) 528-6124 View (828) 528-6124
Photo of Brooklynn Ledford, MSW, LCSWA
Brooklynn Ledford
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Currently taking new clients! Is life feeling difficult right now and hard to manage? You're in the right place and I'm so glad you're taking this step! I specialize in working with youth of all ages, from elementary age to teenagers. I take a casual, fun and relatable approach to therapy that allows youth to feel more comfortable in the space. I enjoy helping youth find their voice, improving communication and the quality of their relationships, becoming more mindful in daily practices, etc. I'm passionate about collaborating with kids and their families to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other challenging life phases.
Currently taking new clients! Is life feeling difficult right now and hard to manage? You're in the right place and I'm so glad you're taking this step! I specialize in working with youth of all ages, from elementary age to teenagers. I take a casual, fun and relatable approach to therapy that allows youth to feel more comfortable in the space. I enjoy helping youth find their voice, improving communication and the quality of their relationships, becoming more mindful in daily practices, etc. I'm passionate about collaborating with kids and their families to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other challenging life phases.
(828) 761-7516 View (828) 761-7516
Photo of Laura Carson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Laura Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hey, I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming. Let me tell you a bit about myself as a therapist to hopefully help you make your decision a little easier. If you are looking for a therapist that listens without judgement, is down to earth, and empathetic to your situation, I would reach out so we can have a phone consultation to explore how I can help your specific situation. I frequently help people who feel like life is just getting on top of them more recently and need help finding strategies to deal with it all.
Hey, I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming. Let me tell you a bit about myself as a therapist to hopefully help you make your decision a little easier. If you are looking for a therapist that listens without judgement, is down to earth, and empathetic to your situation, I would reach out so we can have a phone consultation to explore how I can help your specific situation. I frequently help people who feel like life is just getting on top of them more recently and need help finding strategies to deal with it all.
(910) 631-5158 View (910) 631-5158
Photo of Paula Anderson Demonet, Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
Paula Anderson Demonet
Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy meeting people right where they are in this wild and wonderful experience, we call life. It is important that you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are and what you have already experienced. I work to help you resolve underlying negative beliefs and patterns that are getting in the way of who you were always meant to be. Your authentic self. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life.
I enjoy meeting people right where they are in this wild and wonderful experience, we call life. It is important that you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are and what you have already experienced. I work to help you resolve underlying negative beliefs and patterns that are getting in the way of who you were always meant to be. Your authentic self. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life.
(828) 622-4643 View (828) 622-4643
Photo of Lauren Roth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lauren Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals to support relationship concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. I have found effective growth and change is rooted in a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. In my holistic approach, I evaluate and challenge the mind, body and emotions. This provides external skills and internal growth that makes for lasting effects in relationship and within self. I truly believe that people are resilient. When someone is motivated to change, given the opportunity to be understood, validated and compassionately challenged, they can meet their therapy goals.
I work with individuals to support relationship concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. I have found effective growth and change is rooted in a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. In my holistic approach, I evaluate and challenge the mind, body and emotions. This provides external skills and internal growth that makes for lasting effects in relationship and within self. I truly believe that people are resilient. When someone is motivated to change, given the opportunity to be understood, validated and compassionately challenged, they can meet their therapy goals.
(828) 770-8652 View (828) 770-8652
Photo of Jessica Chastain Tewell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MDiv, LCSW
Jessica Chastain Tewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MDiv, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I work with kids navigating big feelings, teens riding emotional rollercoasters, parents juggling it all (sometimes with snacks in hand), and adults who feel stuck in stress or burnout. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel truly seen and supported. Together, we’ll build tools to help you navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, life changes, trauma, or whatever’s weighing you down. My goal is to help you move from just surviving to feeling more in control, more connected, and more yourself. Let’s take that next step together.
I work with kids navigating big feelings, teens riding emotional rollercoasters, parents juggling it all (sometimes with snacks in hand), and adults who feel stuck in stress or burnout. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel truly seen and supported. Together, we’ll build tools to help you navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, life changes, trauma, or whatever’s weighing you down. My goal is to help you move from just surviving to feeling more in control, more connected, and more yourself. Let’s take that next step together.
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Photo of Jennifer Harr - Cornbread & Roses Community Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cornbread & Roses Community Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Now accepting new clients! We provide individual therapy for all ages, genders, and backgrounds. We accept most major insurances. If you do not have insurance, we can discuss our sliding scale options or you can work with a clinical intern for free of charge or by donation. All sessions are scheduled by appointment only. We do not have walk-in hours.
Now accepting new clients! We provide individual therapy for all ages, genders, and backgrounds. We accept most major insurances. If you do not have insurance, we can discuss our sliding scale options or you can work with a clinical intern for free of charge or by donation. All sessions are scheduled by appointment only. We do not have walk-in hours.
(828) 501-0987 View (828) 501-0987
Photo of Elizabeth Littlefield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Littlefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and we just don’t know how to move forward. Therapy provides a safe, supportive place to regroup, experience nonjudgmental support, and take back the control you have been searching for. While talking to someone can be uncomfortable and sometimes daunting, finding the right therapist that can guide and encourage you will help make lasting transformation in your life.
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and we just don’t know how to move forward. Therapy provides a safe, supportive place to regroup, experience nonjudgmental support, and take back the control you have been searching for. While talking to someone can be uncomfortable and sometimes daunting, finding the right therapist that can guide and encourage you will help make lasting transformation in your life.
(828) 662-3258 View (828) 662-3258
Photo of Amanda Bazan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Amanda Bazan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has dedicated my 19-year career to supporting older adults, caregivers, and veterans navigating life transitions, grief, caregiver stress and advanced illness. My experience has given me insight into these challenges but has also taught me that there are opportunities for growth, connection and resilience. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can process emotions, gain clarity, and find practical guidance in navigating stressors and making important life decisions. My approach is strengths based, and solution focused helping clients build upon their own resilience.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has dedicated my 19-year career to supporting older adults, caregivers, and veterans navigating life transitions, grief, caregiver stress and advanced illness. My experience has given me insight into these challenges but has also taught me that there are opportunities for growth, connection and resilience. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can process emotions, gain clarity, and find practical guidance in navigating stressors and making important life decisions. My approach is strengths based, and solution focused helping clients build upon their own resilience.
(828) 481-8413 View (828) 481-8413
Photo of Melanie Norman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS
Melanie Norman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS
Online Only
You are doing life--going to work, to school--but it's not easy! And it's exhausting presenting as if all's OK all the time: to put on the smile, to muster the energy. But that little voice still whispers negativity in the back of your head: All. The. Damn. Time. You don't know how to take appreciation, much less see it in yourself. You don't know how to say no. And you just want some peace and the sense that you exist outside the needs of others.
You are doing life--going to work, to school--but it's not easy! And it's exhausting presenting as if all's OK all the time: to put on the smile, to muster the energy. But that little voice still whispers negativity in the back of your head: All. The. Damn. Time. You don't know how to take appreciation, much less see it in yourself. You don't know how to say no. And you just want some peace and the sense that you exist outside the needs of others.
(828) 705-3498 View (828) 705-3498

Online Therapists

Photo of Tiffany Simpson, Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Tiffany Simpson
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Online Only
I work to empower others to recreate themselves. Most of us want to live a healthy and fulfilled life and I believe that we all have the ability to do that. Life is full of challenges. Some of those challenges are the result of our own decision making or the impact of our relationships we have had, and others just happen. Regardless of the cause, these challenges often have a lasting impact. I believe that your journey is unique to you and that your internal resiliency is the key to overcoming those challenges to have the life you want and deserve.
I work to empower others to recreate themselves. Most of us want to live a healthy and fulfilled life and I believe that we all have the ability to do that. Life is full of challenges. Some of those challenges are the result of our own decision making or the impact of our relationships we have had, and others just happen. Regardless of the cause, these challenges often have a lasting impact. I believe that your journey is unique to you and that your internal resiliency is the key to overcoming those challenges to have the life you want and deserve.
(828) 662-8562 View (828) 662-8562
Photo of Jillian Gatz - Jillian Gatz, EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jillian Gatz, EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Asheville, NC 28803
Openings as early as 9/18/25 As a marriage and family therapist and EMDR therapist, my goal is to help you and your family answer the question "Where are we compared to where we want to be?" I specialize in short term, solution focused therapy, with specific and attainable goals, where the overall well-being of you, your marriage, and your family is the result. Improving communication and lowering any form of distress will be a main focus. Whether it is marriage, troubled teens, your children's feelings, rebelling from school or other activities, I have experience that can help begin recovery. EMDR available and recommended.
Openings as early as 9/18/25 As a marriage and family therapist and EMDR therapist, my goal is to help you and your family answer the question "Where are we compared to where we want to be?" I specialize in short term, solution focused therapy, with specific and attainable goals, where the overall well-being of you, your marriage, and your family is the result. Improving communication and lowering any form of distress will be a main focus. Whether it is marriage, troubled teens, your children's feelings, rebelling from school or other activities, I have experience that can help begin recovery. EMDR available and recommended.
(865) 420-4832 View (865) 420-4832
Photo of Sara R Whitley - Complete Peace, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Complete Peace, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Life. It’s about how well we navigate the world around us; our family, friends, partner, career, health, financial obligations, etc. Our happiness is dependent on our capacity to keep “it” together. When one of these is confronted with a challenge, life begins to feel unbalanced. It’s that easy to lose our grasp on happiness. When this happens, life becomes more about survival and getting through the day than it does about savoring the moments and counting our blessings. This is where I can help. Together we will focus on life’s challenges and together we will find the opportunities to reclaim and maintain your Complete Peace.
Life. It’s about how well we navigate the world around us; our family, friends, partner, career, health, financial obligations, etc. Our happiness is dependent on our capacity to keep “it” together. When one of these is confronted with a challenge, life begins to feel unbalanced. It’s that easy to lose our grasp on happiness. When this happens, life becomes more about survival and getting through the day than it does about savoring the moments and counting our blessings. This is where I can help. Together we will focus on life’s challenges and together we will find the opportunities to reclaim and maintain your Complete Peace.
(828) 520-0169 View (828) 520-0169
Photo of Marie O Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, CAP, CSP
Marie O Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, CAP, CSP
Asheville, NC 28805
My approach starts with the understanding that the human being has within it untold potential that can meet and overcome all manner of difficulty. The path of healing involves coming to recognize and develop our own unique potential. Many of the life circumstances that we encounter are the very conditions that can help us discover and recover our inner convictions, direction and fulfilment. I offer integrative counselling and therapy tailored to your unique journey. Emphasizing body-centered and wholistic care to reclaim the whole person—body, soul, and spirit. You are invited to heal deeply and grow authentically.
My approach starts with the understanding that the human being has within it untold potential that can meet and overcome all manner of difficulty. The path of healing involves coming to recognize and develop our own unique potential. Many of the life circumstances that we encounter are the very conditions that can help us discover and recover our inner convictions, direction and fulfilment. I offer integrative counselling and therapy tailored to your unique journey. Emphasizing body-centered and wholistic care to reclaim the whole person—body, soul, and spirit. You are invited to heal deeply and grow authentically.
(828) 481-9092 View (828) 481-9092

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Swain County, NC

10+

Average cost per session

$129

Therapists in Swain County, NC who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
88% Anxiety
81% Trauma and PTSD
81% Self Esteem
81% Stress
75% Coping Skills
69% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
94% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Swain County, NC see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
14% Male
13% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Swain 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.