Therapists in New York, NY

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Photo of Kara Marie Hade in New York, NY
Kara Marie Hade
EdM, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
Kara works with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. She has a background in mental health, school counseling and education. Kara enjoys helping people work through difficulties and overcoming life's challenges by providing a safe space to tell their stories. She believes by processing issues from the past, discarding unhealthy habits, and reframing their thoughts, individuals can focus on the present and lead healthy, satisfying lives.
Kara works with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. She has a background in mental health, school counseling and education. Kara enjoys helping people work through difficulties and overcoming life's challenges by providing a safe space to tell their stories. She believes by processing issues from the past, discarding unhealthy habits, and reframing their thoughts, individuals can focus on the present and lead healthy, satisfying lives.
(646) 663-4576 View (646) 663-4576
Photo of Gayle A Wiley, Counselor in New York, NY
Gayle A Wiley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
People generally want to be secure, content and happy. It's as simple as that. By improving your self-esteem, promoting behavior change, strengthening your coping skills and learning to adapt, this will prepare you for the journey to finding your optimal mental health. Life is stressful. We all react to stress differently and counseling can support your way through it. You don't even need a mental health diagnosis to consider counseling. You need an effective counselor who will listen, be completely genuine, not judge and only offer guidance that makes sense and truly reflects your needs.
People generally want to be secure, content and happy. It's as simple as that. By improving your self-esteem, promoting behavior change, strengthening your coping skills and learning to adapt, this will prepare you for the journey to finding your optimal mental health. Life is stressful. We all react to stress differently and counseling can support your way through it. You don't even need a mental health diagnosis to consider counseling. You need an effective counselor who will listen, be completely genuine, not judge and only offer guidance that makes sense and truly reflects your needs.
(315) 535-6975 View (315) 535-6975
Photo of Behavioral Associates, Psychologist in New York, NY
Behavioral Associates
Psychologist, PhD, BCN, BCB
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
Dr. Robert Reiner is the Executive Director and founder of Behavioral Associates (BA), and has been practicing psychology since 1981. He specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for individuals, couples and families alone or in combination with Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, Virtual Reality Therapy (VRT) and QEEG assessment. Dr. Reiner is a warm, compassionate psychologist that personally meets with each new patient during the initial consultation to assess the patients' individual needs, match them with one of the expert clinicians on staff, and devise a treatment plan. While he views medication as a last resort, psychiatrists are available to prescribe when deemed necessary.
Dr. Robert Reiner is the Executive Director and founder of Behavioral Associates (BA), and has been practicing psychology since 1981. He specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for individuals, couples and families alone or in combination with Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, Virtual Reality Therapy (VRT) and QEEG assessment. Dr. Reiner is a warm, compassionate psychologist that personally meets with each new patient during the initial consultation to assess the patients' individual needs, match them with one of the expert clinicians on staff, and devise a treatment plan. While he views medication as a last resort, psychiatrists are available to prescribe when deemed necessary.
(646) 791-4246 View (646) 791-4246
Photo of Tamara Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Tamara Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Are you ready? Ready to deepen your self-awareness, align with your life's purpose, and acquire the life you desire? If so, I invite you to immerse yourself on a journey inward, where you can heal and let go of what has been holding you back in order to create the life and relationship you deserve. A life aligned with who you are at your core. For those aspiring to understand themselves deeply, longing to experience connection and warmth in their closest relationships, and are willing to show up for the process, I believe we can do great "work" together. I believe in the power of intention, hope, and love. Ready? If so, let's begin!
Are you ready? Ready to deepen your self-awareness, align with your life's purpose, and acquire the life you desire? If so, I invite you to immerse yourself on a journey inward, where you can heal and let go of what has been holding you back in order to create the life and relationship you deserve. A life aligned with who you are at your core. For those aspiring to understand themselves deeply, longing to experience connection and warmth in their closest relationships, and are willing to show up for the process, I believe we can do great "work" together. I believe in the power of intention, hope, and love. Ready? If so, let's begin!
(914) 873-1645 View (914) 873-1645
Photo of Josh Silnik, Counselor in New York, NY
Josh Silnik
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012  (Online Only)
You find yourself alone, unable to share your joys or sorrows with anyone. Holding onto painful feelings, it's challenging to build or sustain relationships, and you're left wondering why. It seems like everyone you meet eventually disappoints you, leaving you feeling isolated. You tell yourself you don't need anyone, but deep down, you know we all crave connection
You find yourself alone, unable to share your joys or sorrows with anyone. Holding onto painful feelings, it's challenging to build or sustain relationships, and you're left wondering why. It seems like everyone you meet eventually disappoints you, leaving you feeling isolated. You tell yourself you don't need anyone, but deep down, you know we all crave connection
(929) 822-6618 View (929) 822-6618
Photo of Anna Shanabrook, Limited Licensed Psychologist in New York, NY
Anna Shanabrook
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
I am a warm and caring postdoctoral psychologist working with adolescents and adults coping with anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, various mood disorders, school, work, parenting, and relationship challenges, as well as severe trauma. Additionally, I also work with those living with complex medical issues. As a mother, I also have a particular interest in women’s mental health as well as the challenges on the journey towards and within parenthood. I work with diverse populations and provide culturally-responsive therapy regardless of culture, ethnicity, religion, ability, socioeconomic status, gender or sexual orientation.
I am a warm and caring postdoctoral psychologist working with adolescents and adults coping with anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, various mood disorders, school, work, parenting, and relationship challenges, as well as severe trauma. Additionally, I also work with those living with complex medical issues. As a mother, I also have a particular interest in women’s mental health as well as the challenges on the journey towards and within parenthood. I work with diverse populations and provide culturally-responsive therapy regardless of culture, ethnicity, religion, ability, socioeconomic status, gender or sexual orientation.
(646) 603-0247 View (646) 603-0247
Photo of Justin Jones, Psychologist in New York, NY
Justin Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Earning graduate degrees from Columbia and Yale Universities, I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in both the states of New York and Massachusetts, who is trained in psychoanalytic,dialectical behavioral (DBT) and humanistic treatment modalities. With offices in the West Village of Manhattan, I work with adults, children and adolescents with a variety of difficulties, including problems related to anxiety; mood, such as depression and poor self-esteem; interpersonal conflicts; career transitions; issues of professional identity; feelings of ineffectiveness and failures of performance in work and school; marital conflicts; and, difficulties with intimacy in romantic relationships.
Earning graduate degrees from Columbia and Yale Universities, I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in both the states of New York and Massachusetts, who is trained in psychoanalytic,dialectical behavioral (DBT) and humanistic treatment modalities. With offices in the West Village of Manhattan, I work with adults, children and adolescents with a variety of difficulties, including problems related to anxiety; mood, such as depression and poor self-esteem; interpersonal conflicts; career transitions; issues of professional identity; feelings of ineffectiveness and failures of performance in work and school; marital conflicts; and, difficulties with intimacy in romantic relationships.
(917) 924-5830 View (917) 924-5830
Photo of Madeline (Maddie) McGee, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Madeline (Maddie) McGee
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I’ll meet you there. -Rumi All of us face times when we feel overwhelmed by life’s demands. Our inner critic can limit our capacity to nurture our needs and nourish our passion. Fear can weaken our faith in ourselves. I can help you navigate your path back toward your natural state of balance and resilience. I am a mental health counselor working from a Gestalt perspective.
Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I’ll meet you there. -Rumi All of us face times when we feel overwhelmed by life’s demands. Our inner critic can limit our capacity to nurture our needs and nourish our passion. Fear can weaken our faith in ourselves. I can help you navigate your path back toward your natural state of balance and resilience. I am a mental health counselor working from a Gestalt perspective.
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Photo of Hannah Burke, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Hannah Burke
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. In my work with children, I use play therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches to address challenging behaviors, emotional regulation and distress tolerance. I also work with parents and families, including divorced parents who are co-parenting. I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy approaches to support teens and adults engaging in impulsive behaviors, challenging thoughts, and intense emotions. I hope to provide a supportive environment for you to thrive! In addressing your concerns, we work collaboratively to help you identify goals and make changes.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. In my work with children, I use play therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches to address challenging behaviors, emotional regulation and distress tolerance. I also work with parents and families, including divorced parents who are co-parenting. I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy approaches to support teens and adults engaging in impulsive behaviors, challenging thoughts, and intense emotions. I hope to provide a supportive environment for you to thrive! In addressing your concerns, we work collaboratively to help you identify goals and make changes.
(347) 507-2792 View (347) 507-2792
Photo of Carlota Zitreen, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Carlota Zitreen
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
A large percentage of clients find themselves in chaotic or repetitive situations. They search for an understanding of the origin of their dysfunction and want to move forward in their lives. Therein lies the mystery that we work to solve together. Often, clients desire to know and understand themselves and work with self-esteem issues. Self-esteem often lies at the root of many problems such as relationships, career goals, and social needs. Further, many have a trauma history and would like to work on how that trauma affects their present lives.
A large percentage of clients find themselves in chaotic or repetitive situations. They search for an understanding of the origin of their dysfunction and want to move forward in their lives. Therein lies the mystery that we work to solve together. Often, clients desire to know and understand themselves and work with self-esteem issues. Self-esteem often lies at the root of many problems such as relationships, career goals, and social needs. Further, many have a trauma history and would like to work on how that trauma affects their present lives.
(646) 600-8057 View (646) 600-8057
Photo of Ben Sheff, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in New York, NY
Ben Sheff
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Our world is full of expectations—should and should nots, and prescribed definitions to make us fit existing molds. When our experience doesn’t match this template, we may feel depressed, anxious, or fragmented. My training is informed by Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Trauma Informed Care. With sensitivity to the intersections of race, ethnicity, orientation, gender, social class, and ability, I utilize a systemic lens to affirm, heal, and collaborate with you to find greater personal happiness and relationship satisfaction.
Our world is full of expectations—should and should nots, and prescribed definitions to make us fit existing molds. When our experience doesn’t match this template, we may feel depressed, anxious, or fragmented. My training is informed by Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Trauma Informed Care. With sensitivity to the intersections of race, ethnicity, orientation, gender, social class, and ability, I utilize a systemic lens to affirm, heal, and collaborate with you to find greater personal happiness and relationship satisfaction.
(646) 859-5358 View (646) 859-5358
Photo of Shaé Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Shaé Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
Although the energy of transition and healing is in the air for so many of us, undergoing the initial steps towards seeking support can be difficult. Thank you for leaning into this process and exploring some of the ways we may be able to work and move in partnership towards a space of spiritual, emotional, and mental wellness. During our initial sessions, we will focus on weaving together, the elements of your lived experience that inform your current thought process; the identities that inform how you move through the world; and which will ultimately support in outlining a set of intentions and goals for our time together.
Although the energy of transition and healing is in the air for so many of us, undergoing the initial steps towards seeking support can be difficult. Thank you for leaning into this process and exploring some of the ways we may be able to work and move in partnership towards a space of spiritual, emotional, and mental wellness. During our initial sessions, we will focus on weaving together, the elements of your lived experience that inform your current thought process; the identities that inform how you move through the world; and which will ultimately support in outlining a set of intentions and goals for our time together.
(646) 374-4261 View (646) 374-4261
Photo of Jaclyn Bencivenga, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY
Jaclyn Bencivenga
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state(s) of Florida and NY. I hold a master’s of science in mental health counseling from Touro College and have been working to help better the lives of individuals professionally for the past 8 years. Helping others has always been a passion of mine and I take pride in my ability to do so.
I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state(s) of Florida and NY. I hold a master’s of science in mental health counseling from Touro College and have been working to help better the lives of individuals professionally for the past 8 years. Helping others has always been a passion of mine and I take pride in my ability to do so.
(347) 431-0877 View (347) 431-0877
Photo of Karen Perlman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Karen Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, HHP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
As a therapist with a disability, I have a deep appreciation for life's challenges, pain, loss and suffering. I have learned the art of "transforming obstacles into opportunities," with the help of my guide dog Faith, as she literally guides me around obstacles, and has enhanced my life, turning around an otherwise insurmountable feat. Decades of clinical and life experience, keen intuition, along with compassion and a holistic, evidenced-based approach, and a sense of humor, are some of the key ingredients leading my clients towards feeling better, finding direction and actualizing potential.
As a therapist with a disability, I have a deep appreciation for life's challenges, pain, loss and suffering. I have learned the art of "transforming obstacles into opportunities," with the help of my guide dog Faith, as she literally guides me around obstacles, and has enhanced my life, turning around an otherwise insurmountable feat. Decades of clinical and life experience, keen intuition, along with compassion and a holistic, evidenced-based approach, and a sense of humor, are some of the key ingredients leading my clients towards feeling better, finding direction and actualizing potential.
(646) 679-7829 View (646) 679-7829
Photo of Kalman Honig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Kalman Honig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The weight of life’s struggles can feel burdensome, distressing, and at times insurmountable. It doesn't have to be. Working interactively and collaboratively, I will help you empower yourself to move through and resolve anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal challenges from a secure, grounded, and confident place. By approaching your difficulties with a curious and compassionate lens, you will have clarity and a deeper understanding of self that will alleviate your burdens and allow for you to live, play, and love more freely.
The weight of life’s struggles can feel burdensome, distressing, and at times insurmountable. It doesn't have to be. Working interactively and collaboratively, I will help you empower yourself to move through and resolve anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal challenges from a secure, grounded, and confident place. By approaching your difficulties with a curious and compassionate lens, you will have clarity and a deeper understanding of self that will alleviate your burdens and allow for you to live, play, and love more freely.
(929) 470-2108 View (929) 470-2108
Photo of Nicole Maselli, Counselor in New York, NY
Nicole Maselli
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Do you find it hard to feel at ease in your body and mind? Do you feel stuck in patterns that are not working for you, but not sure why they’re happening or how to change them? You’re not alone in feeling this way. If you have endured trauma at any point in your life, you may now struggle to feel safe in everyday situations. You may notice that a sense of danger keeps you on edge at all times. You don’t need to have a near death experience or witness extreme violence to suffer from the impact of trauma. I can help you move towards a version of your life where emotional and physical discomfort no longer dictate your decisions.
Do you find it hard to feel at ease in your body and mind? Do you feel stuck in patterns that are not working for you, but not sure why they’re happening or how to change them? You’re not alone in feeling this way. If you have endured trauma at any point in your life, you may now struggle to feel safe in everyday situations. You may notice that a sense of danger keeps you on edge at all times. You don’t need to have a near death experience or witness extreme violence to suffer from the impact of trauma. I can help you move towards a version of your life where emotional and physical discomfort no longer dictate your decisions.
(929) 412-1197 View (929) 412-1197
Photo of Monique Cleminson, Psychologist in New York, NY
Monique Cleminson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10002
Change is possible! My strength lies in helping you to grow personally and find emotional relief by providing support, insight, and opportunities for change within the context of a collaborative and warm therapeutic environment. My approach is genuine, encouraging, energetic, and insightful. I specialize in helping individuals gain resolution and clarity about distressing situations and emotions, uncover and develop personal strengths, generate healing of past and present wounds, and develop more personal freedom overall.
Change is possible! My strength lies in helping you to grow personally and find emotional relief by providing support, insight, and opportunities for change within the context of a collaborative and warm therapeutic environment. My approach is genuine, encouraging, energetic, and insightful. I specialize in helping individuals gain resolution and clarity about distressing situations and emotions, uncover and develop personal strengths, generate healing of past and present wounds, and develop more personal freedom overall.
(347) 252-9165 View (347) 252-9165
Photo of Jodi N Licht, Psychologist in New York, NY
Jodi N Licht
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10065
I believe we all have the strength and courage to meet life's challenges. Psychotherapy is one of the many ways we can examine our lives and look within ourselves to find our unique attributes and strengths to overcome adversity and thrive. The process can be hard but also joyful, creative and rewarding.
I believe we all have the strength and courage to meet life's challenges. Psychotherapy is one of the many ways we can examine our lives and look within ourselves to find our unique attributes and strengths to overcome adversity and thrive. The process can be hard but also joyful, creative and rewarding.
(917) 725-4127 View (917) 725-4127
Photo of Fatima Niakate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Fatima Niakate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MHA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013
You may be grappling with a range of psychological and emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, or life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed by your emotions or stuck in unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. You seek a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. You desire validation, understanding, and empathy as you navigate your inner struggles. You are looking for effective coping strategies, tools, and insights to help you manage your difficulties and move towards greater well-being.
You may be grappling with a range of psychological and emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, or life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed by your emotions or stuck in unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. You seek a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. You desire validation, understanding, and empathy as you navigate your inner struggles. You are looking for effective coping strategies, tools, and insights to help you manage your difficulties and move towards greater well-being.
(929) 810-2987 View (929) 810-2987
Photo of Claudia Rose Pomponi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Claudia Rose Pomponi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I am so happy to help you in your therapy journey. I work with adolescents/young adults and adults at all stages of life. I specialize in life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, grief and loss, and more. I work from a strengths based perspective with a holistic approach to help you achieve your therapy goals.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I am so happy to help you in your therapy journey. I work with adolescents/young adults and adults at all stages of life. I specialize in life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, grief and loss, and more. I work from a strengths based perspective with a holistic approach to help you achieve your therapy goals.
(646) 722-6964 View (646) 722-6964

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

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.