Therapists in Columbus, OH

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Photo of Anissa Mahmood, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Anissa Mahmood
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I recognize that in today’s rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever to prioritize personal wellness and build resilience against life’s stressors. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Ohio, I have over six years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults seeking support for various mental health and behavioral concerns. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Bowling Green State University, graduating summa cum laude, and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University.
I recognize that in today’s rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever to prioritize personal wellness and build resilience against life’s stressors. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Ohio, I have over six years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults seeking support for various mental health and behavioral concerns. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Bowling Green State University, graduating summa cum laude, and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University.
(216) 279-3472 View (216) 279-3472
Photo of Kristen Santel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Kristen Santel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
Are you in emotional pain? Have you been through difficult or traumatic life experiences? Learning to deal with life's challenges and finding your way out of deep emotional pain can be overwhelming. The decision to attend counseling is not always easy and choosing the right therapist to partner with you is important. If you are ready to work to find hope and healing, I am ready to help you. My practice is effective because I work with all parts of the self-- helping you move through the difficult experiences you have encountered and help bring meaning back to life!
Are you in emotional pain? Have you been through difficult or traumatic life experiences? Learning to deal with life's challenges and finding your way out of deep emotional pain can be overwhelming. The decision to attend counseling is not always easy and choosing the right therapist to partner with you is important. If you are ready to work to find hope and healing, I am ready to help you. My practice is effective because I work with all parts of the self-- helping you move through the difficult experiences you have encountered and help bring meaning back to life!
(614) 907-8194 View (614) 907-8194
Photo of Susan I Musto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Susan I Musto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Columbus, OH 43212
Bearing your soul to a complete stranger can be a very stress provoking experience. Trauma, anxiety and depression are difficult journeys to take alone. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2007, and have worked in a variety of settings to gain the experience I have to help the many difficult challenges we face in our lives. If you have childhood trauma, or adult trauma, or depression, anxiety, or even just trying to adjust to a new stage of life. I would be honored to help you manage and conquer what challenges you're facing.
Bearing your soul to a complete stranger can be a very stress provoking experience. Trauma, anxiety and depression are difficult journeys to take alone. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2007, and have worked in a variety of settings to gain the experience I have to help the many difficult challenges we face in our lives. If you have childhood trauma, or adult trauma, or depression, anxiety, or even just trying to adjust to a new stage of life. I would be honored to help you manage and conquer what challenges you're facing.
(614) 683-3093 View (614) 683-3093
Photo of Judy Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Judy Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Columbus, OH 43209
I have been a practicing clinical social worker for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients who are at least 13 years of age. I believe I excel in assisting clients work through depression, anxiety, and /or life issues that impede an individual or a couple in maximizing their potential. Because I believe that children are often the victims of adversarial divorces, I am also a certified divorce and family mediator with the Court of Common Pleas. My focus in my mediation work is to help children of divorce.
I have been a practicing clinical social worker for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients who are at least 13 years of age. I believe I excel in assisting clients work through depression, anxiety, and /or life issues that impede an individual or a couple in maximizing their potential. Because I believe that children are often the victims of adversarial divorces, I am also a certified divorce and family mediator with the Court of Common Pleas. My focus in my mediation work is to help children of divorce.
(614) 470-5374 View (614) 470-5374
Photo of Madeline Butterly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Madeline Butterly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in New York and Ohio with 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds with an array of different concerns. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and narrative therapies. I will tailor our time together and work with you to create a treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in New York and Ohio with 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds with an array of different concerns. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and narrative therapies. I will tailor our time together and work with you to create a treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
(440) 586-4178 View (440) 586-4178
Photo of Katelyn R Helldoerfer, Counselor, MA, LPCC, ATR-BC, LPAT
Katelyn R Helldoerfer
Counselor, MA, LPCC, ATR-BC, LPAT
Columbus, OH 43205
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel like it has been hard to find your place in this world? Maybe you have had to make life altering sacrifices just to feel like you could fit in somewhere. I care about creating a therapeutic space that is designed to help you find and embrace the fullest expression of YOU. I enjoy collaboratively working with adult clients that are interested in a compassionate, person-centered, LGBTQ+ affirming and trauma-informed approach to counseling. With time, patience and a willingness to show up I will help you pick up the pieces and rediscover the value in the person that makes up those pieces.
Do you feel like it has been hard to find your place in this world? Maybe you have had to make life altering sacrifices just to feel like you could fit in somewhere. I care about creating a therapeutic space that is designed to help you find and embrace the fullest expression of YOU. I enjoy collaboratively working with adult clients that are interested in a compassionate, person-centered, LGBTQ+ affirming and trauma-informed approach to counseling. With time, patience and a willingness to show up I will help you pick up the pieces and rediscover the value in the person that makes up those pieces.
(380) 210-3215 View (380) 210-3215
Photo of Bria Ewing, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, CST
Bria Ewing
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, CST
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
If you’re a human being on this planet, odds are you’ve been through things that have left a lasting negative impact on your mental health. You've also likely experienced feelings of shame when it comes to your sexuality that you never asked for. While you may have been told that you’re broken, that your sexuality is something to be ashamed of, or you’re just "bad" at relationships; my goal is to help you in working through these challenges. Whether you're experiencing mental health concerns, sexual related concerns, or you're just feeling "stuck" in life, we can work through it together.
If you’re a human being on this planet, odds are you’ve been through things that have left a lasting negative impact on your mental health. You've also likely experienced feelings of shame when it comes to your sexuality that you never asked for. While you may have been told that you’re broken, that your sexuality is something to be ashamed of, or you’re just "bad" at relationships; my goal is to help you in working through these challenges. Whether you're experiencing mental health concerns, sexual related concerns, or you're just feeling "stuck" in life, we can work through it together.
(614) 482-3952 View (614) 482-3952
Photo of Sherrie Kleinholz, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Sherrie Kleinholz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor. My approach to therapy is supportive, reflective, and eclectic using evidence-based practices. When we work together, you can expect to come to session knowing that you are supported, honored, appreciated, and respected! I work hard to create an environment that you trust, feel comfortable sharing your experiences, and feel safe. I use open and honest communication and make sure my clients know that they are encouraged to also do the same.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor. My approach to therapy is supportive, reflective, and eclectic using evidence-based practices. When we work together, you can expect to come to session knowing that you are supported, honored, appreciated, and respected! I work hard to create an environment that you trust, feel comfortable sharing your experiences, and feel safe. I use open and honest communication and make sure my clients know that they are encouraged to also do the same.
(216) 242-1935 View (216) 242-1935
Photo of Cynthia Holloway, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cynthia Holloway
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Cynthia Holloway Independent Marriage and Family Therapist Hello, I’m Cindy I’m a master’s prepared Independently licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I look forward to helping individuals as they work to heal and develop skills that will help them help themselves. Currently, my practice consists of individual adults. Often, these folks are navigating a significant life transition and / or working through trauma from the past that seems to interfere with current life experiences and well-being. Disorders these individuals bring with them include depression, anxiety, various identity issues, and post-traumatic stress.
Cynthia Holloway Independent Marriage and Family Therapist Hello, I’m Cindy I’m a master’s prepared Independently licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I look forward to helping individuals as they work to heal and develop skills that will help them help themselves. Currently, my practice consists of individual adults. Often, these folks are navigating a significant life transition and / or working through trauma from the past that seems to interfere with current life experiences and well-being. Disorders these individuals bring with them include depression, anxiety, various identity issues, and post-traumatic stress.
(440) 641-3862 View (440) 641-3862
Photo of Amber Riley, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Amber Riley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
We all have a story to tell. Sometimes it seems we get lost in the details and instead of being able to control how the story goes; we allow the story to detail our reality. After all, experience is a strong teacher, and it is a powerful enforcer when it comes to how individuals relate to everyday life. My goal as a counselor is to show clients how to take change into their own hands to tear down problematic scenarios and rebuild new stories that create a healthy home and atmosphere where they can reach their full potential of being a healthy, functional couple and/or family.
We all have a story to tell. Sometimes it seems we get lost in the details and instead of being able to control how the story goes; we allow the story to detail our reality. After all, experience is a strong teacher, and it is a powerful enforcer when it comes to how individuals relate to everyday life. My goal as a counselor is to show clients how to take change into their own hands to tear down problematic scenarios and rebuild new stories that create a healthy home and atmosphere where they can reach their full potential of being a healthy, functional couple and/or family.
(614) 412-0365 View (614) 412-0365
Photo of Danya Contractor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Danya Contractor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Danya. I believe that everyone has the potential to transform their life. If there is something about your life that you wish to change, I will meet you with respect, humility, and clinical expertise. There is no “ideal client” for me, but we will work well together if you are curious, open-minded, and actively engaged in sessions. If you appreciate candid and compassionate communication, we might be a good match. Whatever you are dealing with, I’m here to listen and support. As your counselor, I'll work to provide a nonjudgmental space to safely explore your emotions, thoughts, identities, and experiences together.
Hi, I’m Danya. I believe that everyone has the potential to transform their life. If there is something about your life that you wish to change, I will meet you with respect, humility, and clinical expertise. There is no “ideal client” for me, but we will work well together if you are curious, open-minded, and actively engaged in sessions. If you appreciate candid and compassionate communication, we might be a good match. Whatever you are dealing with, I’m here to listen and support. As your counselor, I'll work to provide a nonjudgmental space to safely explore your emotions, thoughts, identities, and experiences together.
(614) 924-7262 View (614) 924-7262
Photo of Jawana Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Jawana Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Online Only
I am an independently licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of presenting concerns and I'm passionate about working with anxiety and depression diagnoses. I believe clients are experts of their story and have many strengths that can assist them in overcoming challenges. My foundational approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)and solution-focused therapy (SFT). It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower clients on that journey.
I am an independently licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of presenting concerns and I'm passionate about working with anxiety and depression diagnoses. I believe clients are experts of their story and have many strengths that can assist them in overcoming challenges. My foundational approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)and solution-focused therapy (SFT). It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower clients on that journey.
(440) 291-5944 View (440) 291-5944
Photo of Lindzie Menendez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Lindzie Menendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
Hello, my name is Lindzie Menendez, LISW. My therapeutic approach is characterized by a calm and client-centered philosophy. In our sessions, we prioritize your needs allowing us to explore topics at your pace and for as long as necessary to facilitate your growth and healing. I primarily work with adults facing a range of challenges, including PTSD, schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, and anxiety. I also assist clients who seek guidance in problem-solving and coping with everyday life struggles.
Hello, my name is Lindzie Menendez, LISW. My therapeutic approach is characterized by a calm and client-centered philosophy. In our sessions, we prioritize your needs allowing us to explore topics at your pace and for as long as necessary to facilitate your growth and healing. I primarily work with adults facing a range of challenges, including PTSD, schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, and anxiety. I also assist clients who seek guidance in problem-solving and coping with everyday life struggles.
(440) 588-3177 View (440) 588-3177
Photo of Danielle Harrison, Counselor, MS, LPCC
Danielle Harrison
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Columbus, OH 43215
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel alone, don't feel like you're understood, or just need someone to vent to? I can provide a warm, welcoming, and safe space where you feel understood and heard. I am an active listener who will help guide you through your troubles in life and get you back on track.
Do you feel alone, don't feel like you're understood, or just need someone to vent to? I can provide a warm, welcoming, and safe space where you feel understood and heard. I am an active listener who will help guide you through your troubles in life and get you back on track.
(614) 482-2486 View (614) 482-2486
Photo of Ryan Michael Ziegler, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, MLIS, LPCC
Ryan Michael Ziegler
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, MLIS, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Not accepting new clients
I practice counseling from a humanistic perspective, valuing people's intrinsic potential to move toward growth and healing. I collaborate with clients, providing the space and opportunity to explore the nature of their relationship with self and their relationship with others. I seek balance in my work. I respect that my work with clients often needs to shift fluidly between different approaches: practical concerns such as skills-building and decision-making, internal explorations of experience, and existential concerns regarding discovering or creating meaning and purpose.
I practice counseling from a humanistic perspective, valuing people's intrinsic potential to move toward growth and healing. I collaborate with clients, providing the space and opportunity to explore the nature of their relationship with self and their relationship with others. I seek balance in my work. I respect that my work with clients often needs to shift fluidly between different approaches: practical concerns such as skills-building and decision-making, internal explorations of experience, and existential concerns regarding discovering or creating meaning and purpose.
(614) 421-7680 View (614) 421-7680
Photo of Jeffrey Smart, Counselor, LPCC
Jeffrey Smart
Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I am a Professional Clinical Counselor licensed in the state of Ohio. My focus is on a variety of life issues that impede the unique potential of the individual. My approach to counseling is person-centered / existential and is concerned primarily with a person’s goals, aspirations, and realization of meaning. I view life “problems” not as impediments to attaining goals but as opportunities.
I am a Professional Clinical Counselor licensed in the state of Ohio. My focus is on a variety of life issues that impede the unique potential of the individual. My approach to counseling is person-centered / existential and is concerned primarily with a person’s goals, aspirations, and realization of meaning. I view life “problems” not as impediments to attaining goals but as opportunities.
(440) 641-4826 View (440) 641-4826
Photo of Dr. Shonali Raney, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Shonali Raney
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Not accepting new clients
I work solely with clients who are 25 years old and above. Being engaged in individual counseling is an opportunity to receive support and experience growth during challenging times of life. Counseling allows individuals to explore their feelings, beliefs, and behaviors, to address concerns that lead to mental health problems. You will work with me in a safe, caring and confidential environment. The focus of our work could be on specific goals or long-standing concerns such as, family of origin issues or past-unsolved trauma. The ultimate goal is to help you heal, grow, and re-engage in a productive, personally fulfilling life.
I work solely with clients who are 25 years old and above. Being engaged in individual counseling is an opportunity to receive support and experience growth during challenging times of life. Counseling allows individuals to explore their feelings, beliefs, and behaviors, to address concerns that lead to mental health problems. You will work with me in a safe, caring and confidential environment. The focus of our work could be on specific goals or long-standing concerns such as, family of origin issues or past-unsolved trauma. The ultimate goal is to help you heal, grow, and re-engage in a productive, personally fulfilling life.
(380) 207-1504 View (380) 207-1504
Photo of Inspiring Purpose Counseling Group Llc, Marriage & Family Therapist
Inspiring Purpose Counseling Group Llc
Marriage & Family Therapist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Inspiring Purpose Counseling Group, LLC is an independent group practice that provides confidential counseling, assessments, and consultation services to a broad based clientele including children, adolescents, and adults. We specialize in a variety of counseling services including but not limited to marital counseling, couples, individual counseling for anxiety, depression, family, addiction and trauma therapy. Our long term-goal is to create a nonjudgmental environment that helps motivate positive change and inspire our clients to find and live their purpose.
Inspiring Purpose Counseling Group, LLC is an independent group practice that provides confidential counseling, assessments, and consultation services to a broad based clientele including children, adolescents, and adults. We specialize in a variety of counseling services including but not limited to marital counseling, couples, individual counseling for anxiety, depression, family, addiction and trauma therapy. Our long term-goal is to create a nonjudgmental environment that helps motivate positive change and inspire our clients to find and live their purpose.
(614) 420-2639 View (614) 420-2639
Photo of Tory Trimble, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Tory Trimble
Counselor, MA, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Tory! I've been in practice for several years and have worked with folks from a broad range of backgrounds, cultures, ages, and presenting concerns. I am especially passionate about, and skilled in, working with individuals and relationship structures in the LGBTQIA+, Polyam/CNM, and Neurodivergent communities (all of which are communities I belong to myself). I also enjoy, and have experience working with folks navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, and identity formation/exploration. I do my best to show up in session as my authentic self, and bring curiosity, kindness, and humor to my work with clients.
Hi, I'm Tory! I've been in practice for several years and have worked with folks from a broad range of backgrounds, cultures, ages, and presenting concerns. I am especially passionate about, and skilled in, working with individuals and relationship structures in the LGBTQIA+, Polyam/CNM, and Neurodivergent communities (all of which are communities I belong to myself). I also enjoy, and have experience working with folks navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, and identity formation/exploration. I do my best to show up in session as my authentic self, and bring curiosity, kindness, and humor to my work with clients.
(740) 842-7885 View (740) 842-7885
Photo of Makoto Asahara, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Makoto Asahara
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Lost your confidence? Feeling desperate, angry, confused, frustrated, discontented, worried, sad,? I desire to help everyone overcome their struggles and reach their true potential. It's not always a quick fix, sometimes the answers to these problems are deeper than we know. I strive to help people deal with the deep issues of their life, so that they can push through obstacles and break free from the internal thought patterns that are worsening the pain. I work with people to find a new hope and confidence in themselves and their future. My approach to counseling is one that is person centered, genuine, deep and interactive.
Lost your confidence? Feeling desperate, angry, confused, frustrated, discontented, worried, sad,? I desire to help everyone overcome their struggles and reach their true potential. It's not always a quick fix, sometimes the answers to these problems are deeper than we know. I strive to help people deal with the deep issues of their life, so that they can push through obstacles and break free from the internal thought patterns that are worsening the pain. I work with people to find a new hope and confidence in themselves and their future. My approach to counseling is one that is person centered, genuine, deep and interactive.
(614) 918-4101 View (614) 918-4101

See more therapy options for Columbus

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Columbus, OH

2,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Columbus, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress
64% Self Esteem
61% Relationship Issues
61% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Columbus, OH see their clients

50% Online Only
50% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Columbus?

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.