Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Jenny Larson, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
If you feel like life isn’t what you want it to be, you’re not connecting with others in the way that feels good to you, or if past patterns are no longer serving you, you’re not alone. I work from a place of compassion, understanding, intuition, and humor combined with an extensive array of therapeutic tools to help you reduce discomfort, heal, and engage in the life you want. I welcome the opportunity to work with people of all identities.
If you feel like life isn’t what you want it to be, you’re not connecting with others in the way that feels good to you, or if past patterns are no longer serving you, you’re not alone. I work from a place of compassion, understanding, intuition, and humor combined with an extensive array of therapeutic tools to help you reduce discomfort, heal, and engage in the life you want. I welcome the opportunity to work with people of all identities.
(503) 479-4905 View (503) 479-4905
Photo of Leland St. Charles, PsyD, Psychologist
Leland St. Charles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Is there a general sense of tension and unease that permeates your day-to-day life? Do you struggle with honoring your own needs and setting healthy boundaries? Maybe you’re feeling stuck or frozen. Is it difficult to connect with others? Do you never feel quite good enough? Many of the clients I work with live with constant feelings of shame and regret. Others feel timid and fearful engaging with the world, and find themselves lonely and isolated. And many clients battle with painful, traumatic memories from their past.
Is there a general sense of tension and unease that permeates your day-to-day life? Do you struggle with honoring your own needs and setting healthy boundaries? Maybe you’re feeling stuck or frozen. Is it difficult to connect with others? Do you never feel quite good enough? Many of the clients I work with live with constant feelings of shame and regret. Others feel timid and fearful engaging with the world, and find themselves lonely and isolated. And many clients battle with painful, traumatic memories from their past.
(503) 743-6987 View (503) 743-6987
Photo of Amy Hughes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I specialize in working with teens and Generation Z adults using a range of therapeutic interventions. My work with clients has involved treating mood disorders and addressing identity concerns. My clients have been new to counseling or have returned to therapy, and are motivated to move forward. Over the years, I have worked with clients to address anxiety, binge eating, depression, gender dysphoria, sexuality, self-harm, shame and stress.
I specialize in working with teens and Generation Z adults using a range of therapeutic interventions. My work with clients has involved treating mood disorders and addressing identity concerns. My clients have been new to counseling or have returned to therapy, and are motivated to move forward. Over the years, I have worked with clients to address anxiety, binge eating, depression, gender dysphoria, sexuality, self-harm, shame and stress.
(503) 305-4072 View (503) 305-4072
Photo of Stephanie Solar - Stephanie Solar, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Solar, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Let's face it. Life is a juggling act between home, work, school, friends and family. Our bodies are bioenergetic systems geared for balance. When things go well, our energy flows and we feel good. When life happens and stress occurs, we can feel anxiety, depression and physical pain. We reach outside ourselves for relief when going inside is the answer. If you are ready for change and are committed to making that happen, please make an appointment today. My approach is wholistic and I use Energy Psychology (Tapping), Zen Buddhism and Mindfulness to achieve a client's goals.
Let's face it. Life is a juggling act between home, work, school, friends and family. Our bodies are bioenergetic systems geared for balance. When things go well, our energy flows and we feel good. When life happens and stress occurs, we can feel anxiety, depression and physical pain. We reach outside ourselves for relief when going inside is the answer. If you are ready for change and are committed to making that happen, please make an appointment today. My approach is wholistic and I use Energy Psychology (Tapping), Zen Buddhism and Mindfulness to achieve a client's goals.
(971) 545-4448 View (971) 545-4448
Photo of Linda K Berlingen - Linda Berlingen, LPC - Rose City Therapists, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Berlingen, LPC - Rose City Therapists, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Sometimes we need a caring person, skilled at listening, who will act as a mirror, reflecting back our deepest knowing and personal truth. The act of entrusting another in this manner helps us to realign with our wisest self. We begin feeling more at ease and clearer about our intentions. Choices begin to reflect who we really want to be in the world. Suddenly, we are noticing and appreciating what is right and joyful in life more of the time.
Sometimes we need a caring person, skilled at listening, who will act as a mirror, reflecting back our deepest knowing and personal truth. The act of entrusting another in this manner helps us to realign with our wisest self. We begin feeling more at ease and clearer about our intentions. Choices begin to reflect who we really want to be in the world. Suddenly, we are noticing and appreciating what is right and joyful in life more of the time.
(503) 342-7921 View (503) 342-7921
Photo of Laina Yoswein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laina Yoswein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Accepting new clients! I offer relational, affirming, & approachable therapy for teens and young adults (14-24ish) that helps navigate the often turbulent times of adolescence & emerging adulthood. I work with young people so that they can feel less alone and more connected to a greater understanding of themselves, their joy, and how to move through hardship. As a therapist, my goal is to create a warm, open, and non-judgmental space where you can feel more understood, connected, and supported. I believe that healing happens within trusting relationships and that we shouldn’t have to go through difficulty alone.
Accepting new clients! I offer relational, affirming, & approachable therapy for teens and young adults (14-24ish) that helps navigate the often turbulent times of adolescence & emerging adulthood. I work with young people so that they can feel less alone and more connected to a greater understanding of themselves, their joy, and how to move through hardship. As a therapist, my goal is to create a warm, open, and non-judgmental space where you can feel more understood, connected, and supported. I believe that healing happens within trusting relationships and that we shouldn’t have to go through difficulty alone.
(971) 314-4706 View (971) 314-4706
Photo of Michael Patrick Viola, LPC, MA, BA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Patrick Viola
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Online Only
*Accepting New Clients* I help my clients recognize and work through their traumas, patterns, and blocks. They learn that deep within there is a truth that is yearning for recognition. At some level they are aware that this truth maps the path and purpose of their lives. We'll work together to find new paths of success and personal power. I reflect to them the wisdom and talents they hold within so that they may begin to own that identity and build confidence in becoming who they really are. I work from a framework that is Archetypal, Jungian, Somatic, Shamanic, Transpersonal, Holistic, Spiritual, and Vibrational/Energetic.
*Accepting New Clients* I help my clients recognize and work through their traumas, patterns, and blocks. They learn that deep within there is a truth that is yearning for recognition. At some level they are aware that this truth maps the path and purpose of their lives. We'll work together to find new paths of success and personal power. I reflect to them the wisdom and talents they hold within so that they may begin to own that identity and build confidence in becoming who they really are. I work from a framework that is Archetypal, Jungian, Somatic, Shamanic, Transpersonal, Holistic, Spiritual, and Vibrational/Energetic.
(844) 818-9320 View (844) 818-9320
Photo of Alexandria Moore, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alexandria Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. My name is Alexandria (she/her). I help people repair relationships, connect back to the body, and nurture love. We will work to understand how your family of origin and cultural influences shape you, freeing you to choose how you show up in the world. From years of teaching yoga, I have a deep regard for the connection between mind and body. I will often ask you to tune in to the body: can you notice what you're feeling and where you're feeling it? This will support our larger work, as we practice awareness that every thought and emotion has a physical, embodied component.
Welcome. My name is Alexandria (she/her). I help people repair relationships, connect back to the body, and nurture love. We will work to understand how your family of origin and cultural influences shape you, freeing you to choose how you show up in the world. From years of teaching yoga, I have a deep regard for the connection between mind and body. I will often ask you to tune in to the body: can you notice what you're feeling and where you're feeling it? This will support our larger work, as we practice awareness that every thought and emotion has a physical, embodied component.
(971) 206-3566 View (971) 206-3566
Photo of Marissa Swanson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Swanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
My approach to helping children and teens overcome anxiety is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With parent involvement, I believe in tailoring CBT strategies to help children and teens understand and manage their anxious thoughts and feelings. Together, we will work on developing coping skills, challenging repetitive negative thinking patterns, and gradually facing fears. I believe in using evidence-based practices, such as Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and cognitive restructuring, to help children and teens learn effective coping strategies, develop cognitive flexibility and build resilience.
My approach to helping children and teens overcome anxiety is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With parent involvement, I believe in tailoring CBT strategies to help children and teens understand and manage their anxious thoughts and feelings. Together, we will work on developing coping skills, challenging repetitive negative thinking patterns, and gradually facing fears. I believe in using evidence-based practices, such as Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) and cognitive restructuring, to help children and teens learn effective coping strategies, develop cognitive flexibility and build resilience.
(971) 265-6941 View (971) 265-6941
Photo of Jess Gunderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jess Gunderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
New clients-please contact me via email. Jess Gunderson is a licensed marriage and family therapist through the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. Jess holds a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Mary’s University, an AAMFT approved and COMAFTE accredited program. Jess has received specialized training in non-directive play therapy, sand tray therapy, art therapy, and somatic experiencing. Jess specializes in trauma-based work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
New clients-please contact me via email. Jess Gunderson is a licensed marriage and family therapist through the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. Jess holds a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Mary’s University, an AAMFT approved and COMAFTE accredited program. Jess has received specialized training in non-directive play therapy, sand tray therapy, art therapy, and somatic experiencing. Jess specializes in trauma-based work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
(971) 257-5891 View (971) 257-5891
Photo of Grace Manger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Manger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Grace, and I am a white queer woman who works with teens and adults to support them in learning about themselves and healing from past trauma. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA folks and anyone exploring their identity; as well as people of color, disabled/chronically ill folks, and others who face intersecting forms of oppression. My practice is rooted in social justice and anti-racism, and a belief that systemic oppression directly affects our mental health. In our work together, we’ll explore the ways in which systems of power and societal expectations interfere with our right to authenticity and wholeness.
My name is Grace, and I am a white queer woman who works with teens and adults to support them in learning about themselves and healing from past trauma. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA folks and anyone exploring their identity; as well as people of color, disabled/chronically ill folks, and others who face intersecting forms of oppression. My practice is rooted in social justice and anti-racism, and a belief that systemic oppression directly affects our mental health. In our work together, we’ll explore the ways in which systems of power and societal expectations interfere with our right to authenticity and wholeness.
(503) 966-2415 View (503) 966-2415
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 Dr. Jae P. Douglas, LMSW, PhD
Dr. Jae P. Douglas
LMSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220
Jae Douglas is a social worker in Portland OR, where she works with adults of all ages. Dr. Douglas is particularly passionate about working with people experiencing or contemplating major life changes due to health, relationship or professional challenges. Many of her clients are facing decisions in the context of the loss of the familiar. Her style is warm, thoughtful, active and engaging. She supports and guides her clients in exploring how their life experience, skills, strengths and insights can be brought to bear on their current situation so as to find and move authentically and positively forward.
Jae Douglas is a social worker in Portland OR, where she works with adults of all ages. Dr. Douglas is particularly passionate about working with people experiencing or contemplating major life changes due to health, relationship or professional challenges. Many of her clients are facing decisions in the context of the loss of the familiar. Her style is warm, thoughtful, active and engaging. She supports and guides her clients in exploring how their life experience, skills, strengths and insights can be brought to bear on their current situation so as to find and move authentically and positively forward.
(971) 251-9881 View (971) 251-9881
Photo of Sarah Adams, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients. I am a licensed therapist that works with many different types of clients including children/adolescents, families, & couples. My goal is to help my clients work through the issues they are facing so they can work towards their goals in their lives and relationships. Every person has innate strengths and my goal is to help identify those strengths and build on them so that they can reach their goals in treatment and in their lives. Ultimately, I want my clients to feel heard and supported in my practice and I hope to help them on their journey in finding positive change in their lives and relationships.
Not accepting new clients. I am a licensed therapist that works with many different types of clients including children/adolescents, families, & couples. My goal is to help my clients work through the issues they are facing so they can work towards their goals in their lives and relationships. Every person has innate strengths and my goal is to help identify those strengths and build on them so that they can reach their goals in treatment and in their lives. Ultimately, I want my clients to feel heard and supported in my practice and I hope to help them on their journey in finding positive change in their lives and relationships.
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Photo of Marguerite Congoran, LPC , LPC Intern
Marguerite Congoran
LPC Intern, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with individuals, couples and families of all different ages and backgrounds. As a depth oriented and relational therapist, I use inner work, self-awareness techniques, parts work (IFS), dreamwork, relationship work, art, conflict resolution and communication techniques. My work helps individuals heal personal and intergenerational trauma, and find a greater sense of wholeness through the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. I am a good listener and follow closely the unfolding process of my clients. My work is deeply inspired by nature and helps clients seek insight from the balance of elements in the natural world.
I work with individuals, couples and families of all different ages and backgrounds. As a depth oriented and relational therapist, I use inner work, self-awareness techniques, parts work (IFS), dreamwork, relationship work, art, conflict resolution and communication techniques. My work helps individuals heal personal and intergenerational trauma, and find a greater sense of wholeness through the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. I am a good listener and follow closely the unfolding process of my clients. My work is deeply inspired by nature and helps clients seek insight from the balance of elements in the natural world.
(503) 868-2179 View (503) 868-2179
Photo of Sid Napier, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sid Napier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe that through deeper understanding and radical acceptance, we can cultivate change, as well as more compassion for ourselves and for others. I believe that especially challenging times can be an opportunity to gain more self-awareness, explore our narratives, to grow, and find meaning in the choices we make. As you guide our work, I offer a caring, collaborative, non-judgmental space for you to explore your values, to navigate life problems, to get unstuck, heal, grow, and move towards a life that aligns with your authenticity.
I believe that through deeper understanding and radical acceptance, we can cultivate change, as well as more compassion for ourselves and for others. I believe that especially challenging times can be an opportunity to gain more self-awareness, explore our narratives, to grow, and find meaning in the choices we make. As you guide our work, I offer a caring, collaborative, non-judgmental space for you to explore your values, to navigate life problems, to get unstuck, heal, grow, and move towards a life that aligns with your authenticity.
(503) 601-8354 View (503) 601-8354
Photo of Nicole Rebecca Skeele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Rebecca Skeele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LCSW) available for anxiety and trauma recovery. I am here to help with stress management, PTSD, and ADHD. I provide trauma informed therapy for people who may be overcoming a painful period of life. With a bit of work you can have a greater sense of peace, hope, and confidence.
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LCSW) available for anxiety and trauma recovery. I am here to help with stress management, PTSD, and ADHD. I provide trauma informed therapy for people who may be overcoming a painful period of life. With a bit of work you can have a greater sense of peace, hope, and confidence.
(503) 300-5458 View (503) 300-5458
Photo of Sarah K Small, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah K Small
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel anxious too much of the time? Exhausted, disconnected, without purpose or interest? Do you forfeit your own thoughts and feelings in relationship to others? Would you like to deal with difficulties more effectively than the unconscious impulses to comply, defy or flee? Whether it's a distinct problem or a vague discontent that needs resolution, I hold the space to illuminate, guide and empower your progression. This is where talk is strong medicine. Neuroscience reveals that therapy changes brain chemistry & structure. Habitual patterns fall away to a renewed sense of energy, choice and personal authority.
Do you feel anxious too much of the time? Exhausted, disconnected, without purpose or interest? Do you forfeit your own thoughts and feelings in relationship to others? Would you like to deal with difficulties more effectively than the unconscious impulses to comply, defy or flee? Whether it's a distinct problem or a vague discontent that needs resolution, I hold the space to illuminate, guide and empower your progression. This is where talk is strong medicine. Neuroscience reveals that therapy changes brain chemistry & structure. Habitual patterns fall away to a renewed sense of energy, choice and personal authority.
(503) 967-3168 View (503) 967-3168
Photo of Linnea Stenhouse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linnea Stenhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
Life is change and change is difficult. Moving, finding love, losing a relationship, becoming a parent, leaving a religious community, affirming your gender identity, caregiving for a loved one - aspects of life we may love or hate- adjusting to change brings up a lot of shit. All our identities and histories only amplify the complexity of how we respond to the ever changing landscape of our lives. Therapy is a way to create intentional time to explore and process ourselves, our relationships and our community and context, shed through old skins that no longer fit and discover new ones .
Life is change and change is difficult. Moving, finding love, losing a relationship, becoming a parent, leaving a religious community, affirming your gender identity, caregiving for a loved one - aspects of life we may love or hate- adjusting to change brings up a lot of shit. All our identities and histories only amplify the complexity of how we respond to the ever changing landscape of our lives. Therapy is a way to create intentional time to explore and process ourselves, our relationships and our community and context, shed through old skins that no longer fit and discover new ones .
(503) 987-3081 View (503) 987-3081
Photo of Topher Welsch, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Topher Welsch
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I help people who want a different kind of therapy—one that’s brief, practical, and focused on solutions.
I help people who want a different kind of therapy—one that’s brief, practical, and focused on solutions.
(503) 217-6474 View (503) 217-6474
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

56% Aetna
52% PacificSource
45% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% 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.