Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Stephanie Canales Basurto, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Canales Basurto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
For Insurances please remove: Cigna. Please Add Insurances: Kaiser, (OHP), HealthShare, DMAP and Providence.
For Insurances please remove: Cigna. Please Add Insurances: Kaiser, (OHP), HealthShare, DMAP and Providence.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of David Haven, PsyD, Psychologist
David Haven
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I am accepting in-office clients only at this time, though I use telehealth when necessary. I work most often with people struggling with the course of their life: its direction, its quality, or their traveling companions. You may arrive at therapy when the problems of living have become too painful, scattered, depressing, frightening, or paralyzing to bear. Reaching an emotional breaking point isn't necessary to seek therapy, however: instead, you may be frustrated at not having "figured out" how to build a rich life that includes satisfying relationships and work that doesn't demean them.
I am accepting in-office clients only at this time, though I use telehealth when necessary. I work most often with people struggling with the course of their life: its direction, its quality, or their traveling companions. You may arrive at therapy when the problems of living have become too painful, scattered, depressing, frightening, or paralyzing to bear. Reaching an emotional breaking point isn't necessary to seek therapy, however: instead, you may be frustrated at not having "figured out" how to build a rich life that includes satisfying relationships and work that doesn't demean them.
(503) 298-6867 View (503) 298-6867
Photo of Christina Gonçalves, MSW, CSWA
Christina Gonçalves
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, on edge from anxiety or stressed? Perhaps you feel stuck, despite your efforts? You’re not alone. I’m here to help. Let’s be honest, sometimes we all need a little help & support, even if we’ve tried working on it for a while on our own. Life can be complex & hard at times. Sometimes we find ourselves facing issues of pain stemming from racism, poverty, and/or different types of trauma (including religious trauma). As a biracial & multicultural therapist (Latina/White/ Brazilian born), I would be honored to collaborate on how we can work together to get the relief or changes you desire.
Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, on edge from anxiety or stressed? Perhaps you feel stuck, despite your efforts? You’re not alone. I’m here to help. Let’s be honest, sometimes we all need a little help & support, even if we’ve tried working on it for a while on our own. Life can be complex & hard at times. Sometimes we find ourselves facing issues of pain stemming from racism, poverty, and/or different types of trauma (including religious trauma). As a biracial & multicultural therapist (Latina/White/ Brazilian born), I would be honored to collaborate on how we can work together to get the relief or changes you desire.
(971) 278-9371 View (971) 278-9371
Photo of Robert Colpean, MSW, CSWA
Robert Colpean
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The decision to seek therapy is an incredibly brave step. If you're ready to make some meaningful changes, do away with unwanted patterns, or create an overall healthier outlook, I would be honored to work with you to reach these goals. I have spent 20 years as a mental health professional, assisting folks from all walks of life striving to make their time in this world more enjoyable & rewarding. I would appreciate the opportunity to use my skillset to assist you in overcoming obstacles that you've already identified or those we discover together.
The decision to seek therapy is an incredibly brave step. If you're ready to make some meaningful changes, do away with unwanted patterns, or create an overall healthier outlook, I would be honored to work with you to reach these goals. I have spent 20 years as a mental health professional, assisting folks from all walks of life striving to make their time in this world more enjoyable & rewarding. I would appreciate the opportunity to use my skillset to assist you in overcoming obstacles that you've already identified or those we discover together.
(971) 328-3324 View (971) 328-3324
Photo of Timothy A Connor, PsyD, Psychologist
Timothy A Connor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
(503) 850-0046 View (503) 850-0046
Photo of Dana Shadburne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana Shadburne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Dana believes in serving the whole person (mind, body, and soul) while nurturing a sense of belonging and safety. He is psychodynamic, drawing from many theories that foster client growth and development. As a therapist, he supports building a greater understanding of self, learning new skills, and working towards more positive connections with others. He will work with you in creating goals and a treatment plan that fits your specific needs.
Dana believes in serving the whole person (mind, body, and soul) while nurturing a sense of belonging and safety. He is psychodynamic, drawing from many theories that foster client growth and development. As a therapist, he supports building a greater understanding of self, learning new skills, and working towards more positive connections with others. He will work with you in creating goals and a treatment plan that fits your specific needs.
(971) 385-6075 View (971) 385-6075
Photo of Alivia Curl - IFS Telehealth Collective, LMFT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
IFS Telehealth Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
We are experienced IFS Therapists providing quality online therapy to our clients in CA, FL, MA, MI, NY and OR. We trust the inherent wisdom inside all people to be accessible and essential for the well-being of the world. We’re committed to creating a therapeutic environment that empowers clients to transform and reclaim parts of themselves from a place of compassion and curiosity, allowing them to live meaningful and healthy lives. We are committed to delivering exceptional Internal Family Systems telehealth services to our clients by providing expert IFS consultation.
We are experienced IFS Therapists providing quality online therapy to our clients in CA, FL, MA, MI, NY and OR. We trust the inherent wisdom inside all people to be accessible and essential for the well-being of the world. We’re committed to creating a therapeutic environment that empowers clients to transform and reclaim parts of themselves from a place of compassion and curiosity, allowing them to live meaningful and healthy lives. We are committed to delivering exceptional Internal Family Systems telehealth services to our clients by providing expert IFS consultation.
(718) 841-0136 View (718) 841-0136
Photo of Kirsten Lynn Kelly Chambers - Kirsten Kelly Chambers, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten Kelly Chambers, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I provide a safe, supportive and open-hearted space for teens, adults, couples and families who may be experiencing anxiety, chronic stress, relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, and/or trauma, to begin processing and gaining insight and skills to better navigate these challenges. I use authenticity, humor, directness, warmth and a strengths-based approach to help you build resiliency, self-confidence and strengthen your relationships.
I provide a safe, supportive and open-hearted space for teens, adults, couples and families who may be experiencing anxiety, chronic stress, relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, and/or trauma, to begin processing and gaining insight and skills to better navigate these challenges. I use authenticity, humor, directness, warmth and a strengths-based approach to help you build resiliency, self-confidence and strengthen your relationships.
(503) 782-5676 View (503) 782-5676
Photo of Vicki Zeitner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vicki Zeitner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients seeking compassionate, affordable therapy and wellness consulting. I offer Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for anxiety, stress and depression, and assertive communication coaching for personal and professional relationships. Please review my website and contact me for a free consultation. While I do not accept insurance I can provide you with a monthly superbill to submit to your insurance or HSA for reimbursement.
Accepting new clients seeking compassionate, affordable therapy and wellness consulting. I offer Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for anxiety, stress and depression, and assertive communication coaching for personal and professional relationships. Please review my website and contact me for a free consultation. While I do not accept insurance I can provide you with a monthly superbill to submit to your insurance or HSA for reimbursement.
(971) 213-7453 View (971) 213-7453
Photo of Kathryn Hoover - EMDR Therapy in the City of Roses, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
EMDR Therapy in the City of Roses
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
Update 9/24: Limited in-person appts available on Mondays. Welcome! My name is Kathryn Hoover and my heart's work is connecting with people, holding space for their hurt, and empowering them to reach towards a connected, integrated life. My ideal client is someone who is curious about WHY troubling symptoms exist in the first place; someone who is ready to either step into therapy for the first time (hurrah!) or to step away from traditional talk therapy and begin deeper, more profound healing from the bottom up instead of the top down; someone who is wanting to feel more connected to themselves and others, and to feel more joy.
Update 9/24: Limited in-person appts available on Mondays. Welcome! My name is Kathryn Hoover and my heart's work is connecting with people, holding space for their hurt, and empowering them to reach towards a connected, integrated life. My ideal client is someone who is curious about WHY troubling symptoms exist in the first place; someone who is ready to either step into therapy for the first time (hurrah!) or to step away from traditional talk therapy and begin deeper, more profound healing from the bottom up instead of the top down; someone who is wanting to feel more connected to themselves and others, and to feel more joy.
(503) 406-6572 View (503) 406-6572
Photo of Jonicia June Shelton - Talks With June, MA, CSWA, QMHP
Talks With June
Clinical Social Work Associate, MA, CSWA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97230  (Online Only)
"What's wrong with me" "I'm tired of this" "No one understands me" "Will things stay like this forever", are these some of the thoughts that run through your head? If so I am here to help you understand and assist you in getting a better understanding of what is going on in your life. For some of us life can bring some significant challenges, stressors or transitions that just have "you stuck" in unproductive patterns in relationships, work, school or just life in general. I am a Clinical Social Worker who wants to help people transform personal challenges into life-enhancing opportunities.
"What's wrong with me" "I'm tired of this" "No one understands me" "Will things stay like this forever", are these some of the thoughts that run through your head? If so I am here to help you understand and assist you in getting a better understanding of what is going on in your life. For some of us life can bring some significant challenges, stressors or transitions that just have "you stuck" in unproductive patterns in relationships, work, school or just life in general. I am a Clinical Social Worker who wants to help people transform personal challenges into life-enhancing opportunities.
(503) 928-6512 View (503) 928-6512
Photo of Jennifer Andrews, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217
Healing is available to you. Deep down, we all have the power to heal. Starting therapy takes courage, and it's not always easy to stick with it. But the changes it can bring to your life are huge. In our work together I strive to invite you to discover things about yourself you never knew, find parts of yourself you thought were lost, and learn how to bounce back stronger when life gets tough. I'm here to walk with you through this journey, gently helping you tap into your own inner wisdom where healing, growth, and a new you are waiting.
Healing is available to you. Deep down, we all have the power to heal. Starting therapy takes courage, and it's not always easy to stick with it. But the changes it can bring to your life are huge. In our work together I strive to invite you to discover things about yourself you never knew, find parts of yourself you thought were lost, and learn how to bounce back stronger when life gets tough. I'm here to walk with you through this journey, gently helping you tap into your own inner wisdom where healing, growth, and a new you are waiting.
(541) 329-3330 View (541) 329-3330
Photo of Paula Emerick, LMFT, CADC I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Emerick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
(971) 260-4121 View (971) 260-4121
Photo of Mary McGill, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary McGill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you want more out of your life but you are feeling stuck in old patterns? Does fear or feeling down stop you from enjoying life? Have you had a loss or a terrible experience and are "just not yourself"? I can help you. I use techniques for understanding the problem and finding the ways that can open you to new possibilities. By getting in touch with the desires of your heart, I can help you meaningfully navigate the ups and downs of life. I work collaboratively to cultivate what you most value for yourself, your relationships, your family, and your community.
Do you want more out of your life but you are feeling stuck in old patterns? Does fear or feeling down stop you from enjoying life? Have you had a loss or a terrible experience and are "just not yourself"? I can help you. I use techniques for understanding the problem and finding the ways that can open you to new possibilities. By getting in touch with the desires of your heart, I can help you meaningfully navigate the ups and downs of life. I work collaboratively to cultivate what you most value for yourself, your relationships, your family, and your community.
(503) 766-5497 View (503) 766-5497
Photo of Graham Borgman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Graham Borgman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work well with individuals who are curious about their own minds and emotions. Individuals who can benefit from working with me are those who wish to understand and move through their suffering, as well as to enjoy the vitality that the healing process can bring. Reasons for seeking therapy which I work well with include: Anxiety & stress, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Relationship issues, Existential concerns, Difficulty with self-expression, Feelings of guilt & shame, Self criticism & self-esteem issues, Anger issues, Life transitions, Many more: just ask!
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work well with individuals who are curious about their own minds and emotions. Individuals who can benefit from working with me are those who wish to understand and move through their suffering, as well as to enjoy the vitality that the healing process can bring. Reasons for seeking therapy which I work well with include: Anxiety & stress, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Relationship issues, Existential concerns, Difficulty with self-expression, Feelings of guilt & shame, Self criticism & self-esteem issues, Anger issues, Life transitions, Many more: just ask!
(503) 714-7078 View (503) 714-7078
Photo of Judy P Chang, PsyD, Psychologist
Judy P Chang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
I have offices in Redmond, WA and Portland, OR. I'm licensed in NY, OR, WA, currently inactive status in HI and CA but willing to activate HI. I do double sessions and am practicing virtually only. Treatment is very focused, short term, holistic therapy for a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions and relationships. I work with families, couples or individuals of all ages.
(831) 238-0416 View (831) 238-0416
Photo of Mary Mayfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Mayfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to hold an environment in which people feel safe to acknowledge their internal process and are encouraged to discover their resiliency. I have experience working with individuals and families on a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, communication, and life transitions.
I strive to hold an environment in which people feel safe to acknowledge their internal process and are encouraged to discover their resiliency. I have experience working with individuals and families on a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, communication, and life transitions.
(503) 487-5573 View (503) 487-5573
Photo of Trish Nicholson, MS, NCC
Trish Nicholson
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Healing can be hard work. But it doesn't always have to be difficult, and you certainly don't have to do it alone. Together, we can help you find relief, self-compassion, and increase your quality of life. And maybe even laugh a bit along the way. As a mixed-race therapist with White and Indigenous ancestors, I know how hard it can be to find time for self-growth and slowness while navigating oppressive systems. It can be even harder when we don't fit into a binary or see ourselves reflected in the spaces we live, work, or learn.
Healing can be hard work. But it doesn't always have to be difficult, and you certainly don't have to do it alone. Together, we can help you find relief, self-compassion, and increase your quality of life. And maybe even laugh a bit along the way. As a mixed-race therapist with White and Indigenous ancestors, I know how hard it can be to find time for self-growth and slowness while navigating oppressive systems. It can be even harder when we don't fit into a binary or see ourselves reflected in the spaces we live, work, or learn.
(971) 298-8504 View (971) 298-8504
Photo of Anna Hawkins, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Hawkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I welcome your rough edges, tender places, inner wisdom, and the search for more fulfillment. Together, we will invite self-compassion and acceptance around what is already happening, while also creating ways to experience more satisfying ways of treating yourself, being with others, and inhabiting your life. My clients include people who experience depression, anxiety, grief, anger, and shame, creative folks who are stalled at manifesting their potential, gentle souls who find it hard to navigate in a frenetic world, people who want to establish fresh relationship patterns, and those who are recovering their balance amidst life transitions.
I welcome your rough edges, tender places, inner wisdom, and the search for more fulfillment. Together, we will invite self-compassion and acceptance around what is already happening, while also creating ways to experience more satisfying ways of treating yourself, being with others, and inhabiting your life. My clients include people who experience depression, anxiety, grief, anger, and shame, creative folks who are stalled at manifesting their potential, gentle souls who find it hard to navigate in a frenetic world, people who want to establish fresh relationship patterns, and those who are recovering their balance amidst life transitions.
(503) 476-9524 View (503) 476-9524
Photo of Brianne H Williams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brianne H Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
Sometimes, as humans, we get wounded in ways that are so deep, they are difficult to name. Perhaps you have lost loved ones along the way, or can't find meaning in your story. Have you ever inventoried your life or your partnership to discover that it is not what you want it to be? Do you feel haunted by memories? Maybe you engage in self-destructive or numbing behaviors that you wish you could change, but find that making those changes is easier said than done. My goal is to create a trustworthy space where we can work through whatever it is you bring in, on your search for healing, fulfillment, and wholeness.
Sometimes, as humans, we get wounded in ways that are so deep, they are difficult to name. Perhaps you have lost loved ones along the way, or can't find meaning in your story. Have you ever inventoried your life or your partnership to discover that it is not what you want it to be? Do you feel haunted by memories? Maybe you engage in self-destructive or numbing behaviors that you wish you could change, but find that making those changes is easier said than done. My goal is to create a trustworthy space where we can work through whatever it is you bring in, on your search for healing, fulfillment, and wholeness.
(971) 233-2704 View (971) 233-2704
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$162

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

53% PacificSource
52% Aetna
41% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
22% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.