Therapists in Madison County, OH

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Photo of Sarah Dundar, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Sarah Dundar
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plain City, OH 43064  (Online Only)
For years, I have been helping individuals with their mental health and wellness. No matter what kind of struggles you’re dealing with, you don’t have to go through it alone. From my experience, I understand that everyone’s mental health struggles are different. That’s why I offer a wide range of counseling services designed to help you find the tools and support you need to overcome your mental health challenges. My approach is focused on creating a supportive and safe environment where individuals can feel comfortable discussing their personal concerns.
For years, I have been helping individuals with their mental health and wellness. No matter what kind of struggles you’re dealing with, you don’t have to go through it alone. From my experience, I understand that everyone’s mental health struggles are different. That’s why I offer a wide range of counseling services designed to help you find the tools and support you need to overcome your mental health challenges. My approach is focused on creating a supportive and safe environment where individuals can feel comfortable discussing their personal concerns.
(614) 482-1774 View (614) 482-1774
Photo of Rebekah Cotner, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor
Rebekah Cotner
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
London, OH 43140
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed clinical counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. I approach clients from a strengths-based perspective and customize therapy to the needs of the individual or family. I utilize client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solutions-focused therapy. I also use art and play therapy with children during sessions when appropriate.
I am a licensed clinical counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. I approach clients from a strengths-based perspective and customize therapy to the needs of the individual or family. I utilize client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solutions-focused therapy. I also use art and play therapy with children during sessions when appropriate.
(740) 761-2271 View (740) 761-2271
Photo of Daniel Maust - Darby Creek Counseling, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Darby Creek Counseling
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, OH 43140
We provide trauma-informed mental health therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We work with our clients from our first interaction to make sure their treatment is individualized to meet their mental health needs and personal goals. Our staff of over 30 diverse and skilled therapists provide the highest quality care to serve diverse communities with respect to their spiritual, cultural, and individual differences. Our offices in Hilliard, Ohio and London, Ohio are available to work in-person with community members in Central, Ohio or we are available for Telehealth services throughout the State.
We provide trauma-informed mental health therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We work with our clients from our first interaction to make sure their treatment is individualized to meet their mental health needs and personal goals. Our staff of over 30 diverse and skilled therapists provide the highest quality care to serve diverse communities with respect to their spiritual, cultural, and individual differences. Our offices in Hilliard, Ohio and London, Ohio are available to work in-person with community members in Central, Ohio or we are available for Telehealth services throughout the State.
(740) 845-8652 View (740) 845-8652
Photo of Nikki Calloway, L, P, C
Nikki Calloway
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, L, P, C
Verified Verified
It is my desire to empower clients to reach their highest potential as they move through the healing process. If you are struggling to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety and fear during this unprecedented time, feel free to reach out to me. I have helped many clients over the years move through major life transitions, develop and maintain commitments to goals, and build a healthier self-esteem.
It is my desire to empower clients to reach their highest potential as they move through the healing process. If you are struggling to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety and fear during this unprecedented time, feel free to reach out to me. I have helped many clients over the years move through major life transitions, develop and maintain commitments to goals, and build a healthier self-esteem.
(380) 214-2732 View (380) 214-2732
Photo of Samar Khan, LSW
Samar Khan
Licensed Master Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Samar Khan is a Licensed Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at The Ohio State University. She has obtained a Master of Social Work degree through the Ohio State University as well. Samar is passionate about working with individuals and families to support and empower them to achieve their goals. Samar uses compassion, kindness, and education in her practice to help individuals and families develop lifelong skills and the confidence to build the life that they want.
Samar Khan is a Licensed Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at The Ohio State University. She has obtained a Master of Social Work degree through the Ohio State University as well. Samar is passionate about working with individuals and families to support and empower them to achieve their goals. Samar uses compassion, kindness, and education in her practice to help individuals and families develop lifelong skills and the confidence to build the life that they want.
(614) 683-5214 View (614) 683-5214
Photo of Emma Compton, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Compton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Emma Compton is a Licensed Social worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Emma received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, and her Master Social Work from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining LifeStance, she worked as an intensive home-based clinician for children ages 5-18 and their families. Throughout her experience as a clinician, Emma has experience with a variety of practice areas including anxiety, depression, and trauma-related issues in both individual and family settings.
Emma Compton is a Licensed Social worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Emma received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, and her Master Social Work from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining LifeStance, she worked as an intensive home-based clinician for children ages 5-18 and their families. Throughout her experience as a clinician, Emma has experience with a variety of practice areas including anxiety, depression, and trauma-related issues in both individual and family settings.
(614) 265-9210 View (614) 265-9210
Photo of Julie Piatt, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julie Piatt
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Julie is a Licensed Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She received her Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Social Work from The Ohio State University. Julie has worked in the mental health field for 19 years, primarily with children and families who have experienced trauma. Julie is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. Julie serves as the Community-Based Coordinator and provides most of her services in the home and school settings.
Julie is a Licensed Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She received her Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Social Work from The Ohio State University. Julie has worked in the mental health field for 19 years, primarily with children and families who have experienced trauma. Julie is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. Julie serves as the Community-Based Coordinator and provides most of her services in the home and school settings.
(614) 820-8030 View (614) 820-8030
Photo of Summer Gonzalez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Summer Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Summer Gonzalez is an LPC, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from the University of Dayton with a Masters of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Summer believes in taking a nurturing, collaborative approach in working with individuals and couples to provide a safe and empathic atmosphere where they can find their strengths, learn healthy coping skills, and heal through counseling and personal growth. Her main areas of focus include adults struggling with Adjustment issues, Anxiety/Depression, and Post-traumatic stress disorder for both general and military trauma.
Summer Gonzalez is an LPC, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from the University of Dayton with a Masters of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Summer believes in taking a nurturing, collaborative approach in working with individuals and couples to provide a safe and empathic atmosphere where they can find their strengths, learn healthy coping skills, and heal through counseling and personal growth. Her main areas of focus include adults struggling with Adjustment issues, Anxiety/Depression, and Post-traumatic stress disorder for both general and military trauma.
(614) 960-8994 View (614) 960-8994
Photo of Jordan Rush, PC, Counselor
Jordan Rush
Counselor, PC
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Jordan Rush (she/her/hers) is provisionally licensed as a Counselor Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She is currently working toward her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Palo Alto University. Jordan received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Otterbein University, with minors in Criminology and Race/Ethnic Studies. Most recently, Jordan has worked with children and families ages birth to 5 on early literacy and kindergarten readiness.
Jordan Rush (she/her/hers) is provisionally licensed as a Counselor Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She is currently working toward her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Palo Alto University. Jordan received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Otterbein University, with minors in Criminology and Race/Ethnic Studies. Most recently, Jordan has worked with children and families ages birth to 5 on early literacy and kindergarten readiness.
(614) 820-1351 View (614) 820-1351
Photo of Ashley Ormond, PhD, Psychologist
Ashley Ormond
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Dr. Ashley Ormond extends her expertise to families and children in Columbus, Dayton, and surrounding areas of Ohio. With a focus on children’s mental health, Dr. Ormond specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral concerns, offering tailored interventions to support their well-being. Drawing from her own experience as a parent, Dr. Ormond finds fulfillment in working with families and new mothers, empowering parents to navigate challenges with confidence.
Dr. Ashley Ormond extends her expertise to families and children in Columbus, Dayton, and surrounding areas of Ohio. With a focus on children’s mental health, Dr. Ormond specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral concerns, offering tailored interventions to support their well-being. Drawing from her own experience as a parent, Dr. Ormond finds fulfillment in working with families and new mothers, empowering parents to navigate challenges with confidence.
(614) 618-4627 View (614) 618-4627
Photo of Erin Kovacs, MSW,  LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Kovacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Erin Kovacs, LISWS, is a compassionate therapist practicing at LifeStance Health in Ohio. She creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel valued and understood. With a focus on providing empathy, active listening, and personalized care, Erin helps clients navigate life's challenges and improve their mental wellbeing. Erin specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma, using evidencebased interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Erin Kovacs, LISWS, is a compassionate therapist practicing at LifeStance Health in Ohio. She creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel valued and understood. With a focus on providing empathy, active listening, and personalized care, Erin helps clients navigate life's challenges and improve their mental wellbeing. Erin specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma, using evidencebased interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(380) 225-5178 View (380) 225-5178
Photo of Niki Gillette, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Niki Gillette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Niki Gillette started her journey at LifeStance in February 2023 as a social work trainee. Niki graduated with her Bachelor of Psychology in 2016 and then worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital for five years where she fell in love with this field even more. Niki has always had a passion for helping others reach the best possible versions of themselves which she incorporates in her practice with all age groups and with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and many other conditions that affect one's day-to-day living.
Niki Gillette started her journey at LifeStance in February 2023 as a social work trainee. Niki graduated with her Bachelor of Psychology in 2016 and then worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital for five years where she fell in love with this field even more. Niki has always had a passion for helping others reach the best possible versions of themselves which she incorporates in her practice with all age groups and with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and many other conditions that affect one's day-to-day living.
(614) 858-8535 View (614) 858-8535
Photo of Rachel Mertens, LPCC, Counselor
Rachel Mertens
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Rachel Mertens is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with more than 4 years of experience specializing in counseling children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD and more. She also has clinical experience leading group therapy for adolescents and adults. Rachel has experience in Solution Focused Brief Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and engages in traditional therapeutic techniques as well as a variety of creative modalities such as sensory based, mindfulness, music, and creative expression.
Rachel Mertens is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with more than 4 years of experience specializing in counseling children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD and more. She also has clinical experience leading group therapy for adolescents and adults. Rachel has experience in Solution Focused Brief Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and engages in traditional therapeutic techniques as well as a variety of creative modalities such as sensory based, mindfulness, music, and creative expression.
(380) 208-1955 View (380) 208-1955
Photo of Katelyn McGookey, LPCC, Counselor
Katelyn McGookey
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Katelyn Mcgookey, LPCC-S is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She earned her undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University and completed her master's degree in Counselor Education from Ohio University. Kate considers herself a generalist, with areas of focus including: abuse/domestic violence, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, LGBTQ services, parenting, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management. She has experience working in school-based settings,youth residential treatment, drug and alcohol treatment, and outpatient counseling.
Katelyn Mcgookey, LPCC-S is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She earned her undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University and completed her master's degree in Counselor Education from Ohio University. Kate considers herself a generalist, with areas of focus including: abuse/domestic violence, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, LGBTQ services, parenting, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management. She has experience working in school-based settings,youth residential treatment, drug and alcohol treatment, and outpatient counseling.
(380) 333-9685 View (380) 333-9685
Photo of Jasmine Janis, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Janis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Jasmine Janis is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) through the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Wittenberg University and a Master of Social Work degree from The Ohio State University. Jasmine has 19 years of experience working as a group therapist, individual and family therapist, and clinical supervisor with children and adolescents in a residential treatment setting. She is trained in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) as well as EMDR Therapy.
Jasmine Janis is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) through the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Wittenberg University and a Master of Social Work degree from The Ohio State University. Jasmine has 19 years of experience working as a group therapist, individual and family therapist, and clinical supervisor with children and adolescents in a residential treatment setting. She is trained in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) as well as EMDR Therapy.
(380) 600-9303 View (380) 600-9303
Photo of Abby Ruble, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Ruble
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Abby Ruble, LPC Abby Ruble is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters from Capital University in Counselor Education-Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Are you feeling shame about your eating habits, your size, weight, or about how much you think about food? Or are you a person of the LGBTQIA community seeking an affirming professional who will show you how to embrace your own story so you can shape it and live with confidence? Abby would love to help.
Abby Ruble, LPC Abby Ruble is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters from Capital University in Counselor Education-Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Are you feeling shame about your eating habits, your size, weight, or about how much you think about food? Or are you a person of the LGBTQIA community seeking an affirming professional who will show you how to embrace your own story so you can shape it and live with confidence? Abby would love to help.
(614) 960-8786 View (614) 960-8786
Photo of Alison Winnard, LSW
Alison Winnard
Social Worker Trainee, LSW
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Alison Winnard is a Licensed Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. Alison earned her Bachelor's of Science in Healthy Lifestyle Coaching from Arizona State University and has worked previously as a Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Alison went on to complete her Master's degree in Social Work from the Ohio State University.
Alison Winnard is a Licensed Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. Alison earned her Bachelor's of Science in Healthy Lifestyle Coaching from Arizona State University and has worked previously as a Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Alison went on to complete her Master's degree in Social Work from the Ohio State University.
(614) 662-4690 View (614) 662-4690
Photo of Heather Huber, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Huber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plain City, OH 43064  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or health problems? Are you struggling to manage everything all at once? Hi, I'm Heather, a mental health therapist. Counseling can provide support to help you meet the demands of ADHD, anxiety, and depression that interfere with work, relationships, and parenting. I believe we can all use support in our lives as we navigate stressful times and I know it's hard to make time for therapy. Engaging in counseling with me can help you by working through challenging situations, emotions, and experiences with greater ease and without judgment, in a relaxed session.
Are you tired of feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or health problems? Are you struggling to manage everything all at once? Hi, I'm Heather, a mental health therapist. Counseling can provide support to help you meet the demands of ADHD, anxiety, and depression that interfere with work, relationships, and parenting. I believe we can all use support in our lives as we navigate stressful times and I know it's hard to make time for therapy. Engaging in counseling with me can help you by working through challenging situations, emotions, and experiences with greater ease and without judgment, in a relaxed session.
(513) 951-5541 View (513) 951-5541
Photo of Catherine Donatelli, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Catherine Donatelli
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Over 10 years of experience in assisting clients who have unique needs, including those who experience barriers to academic success become accomplished learners. Passionate about developing effective educational and career-planning skills, executive function and organizational skills, developing personal plans of study and providing seamless transition to post secondary options for clients.
Over 10 years of experience in assisting clients who have unique needs, including those who experience barriers to academic success become accomplished learners. Passionate about developing effective educational and career-planning skills, executive function and organizational skills, developing personal plans of study and providing seamless transition to post secondary options for clients.
(614) 739-9894 View (614) 739-9894
Photo of Sarah Beadle, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Beadle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Plain City, OH 43064
Sarah Beadle is a Licensed Independent Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and her Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University. She has worked with students at Ohio State in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio.
Sarah Beadle is a Licensed Independent Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and her Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University. She has worked with students at Ohio State in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio.
(380) 600-9343 View (380) 600-9343
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See more therapy options for Madison County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Madison County, OH

60+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Madison County, OH who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
97% Anxiety
74% Grief
67% Trauma and PTSD
64% Life Transitions
55% Relationship Issues
50% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Optum
88% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Madison County, OH see their clients

96% In Person and Online
4% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Madison 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.