Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Jessica Garbutt-Burden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTMH
Jessica Garbutt-Burden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTMH
Online Only
Accepting New Clients Philosophy and Approach: I believe that at various times in our lives all individuals, couples, and families need support adjusting to traumas, life changes and the daily stressors we all face. I desire to create a safe relationship where individuals feel that their experiences are understood and accepted. When the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, compassion, understanding, and acceptance, individuals are able to feel supported to make positive changes in their lives.
Accepting New Clients Philosophy and Approach: I believe that at various times in our lives all individuals, couples, and families need support adjusting to traumas, life changes and the daily stressors we all face. I desire to create a safe relationship where individuals feel that their experiences are understood and accepted. When the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, compassion, understanding, and acceptance, individuals are able to feel supported to make positive changes in their lives.
(503) 897-9727 View (503) 897-9727
Photo of Lindsay Dozier, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Lindsay Dozier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Seeking support takes enormous courage. My approach is a balance of candidness and tenderness to meet your needs. I welcome feedback throughout our work to ensure we are on the right track and will continue to check in to support you in the best way possible. I use a trauma-focused lens- incorporating biological, social and psychological perspectives. As a certified Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I work primarily from the EMDR modality and integrate parts work and somatic techniques as well as mind-body medicine approaches when it feels appropriate in our work together.
Seeking support takes enormous courage. My approach is a balance of candidness and tenderness to meet your needs. I welcome feedback throughout our work to ensure we are on the right track and will continue to check in to support you in the best way possible. I use a trauma-focused lens- incorporating biological, social and psychological perspectives. As a certified Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I work primarily from the EMDR modality and integrate parts work and somatic techniques as well as mind-body medicine approaches when it feels appropriate in our work together.
(503) 836-8339 View (503) 836-8339
Photo of Tessa Rose, Counselor, MA
Tessa Rose
Counselor, MA
Portland, OR 97227
I believe everyone is capable of making positive changes in their lives. My mission is to help clients reach their fullest potential by providing a safe and supportive space. Through my counseling services, I help my clients to learn to empower themselves, conquer their inner critic, and learn to live in love. I have a holistic approach to the therapeutic process. I work with people of all races, genders, sexualities, life and psychological experiences, bodies, and abilities. I am passionate about working with folks who may experience depression, anxiety, transitions and transformations, gender and sexuality journeys and identities.
I believe everyone is capable of making positive changes in their lives. My mission is to help clients reach their fullest potential by providing a safe and supportive space. Through my counseling services, I help my clients to learn to empower themselves, conquer their inner critic, and learn to live in love. I have a holistic approach to the therapeutic process. I work with people of all races, genders, sexualities, life and psychological experiences, bodies, and abilities. I am passionate about working with folks who may experience depression, anxiety, transitions and transformations, gender and sexuality journeys and identities.
(503) 755-8954 View (503) 755-8954
Photo of Bennett Gibney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bennett Gibney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
I partner with clients across the lifespan, helping folks to gain deeper insight into themselves, their desires, and their need for change. As a clinical social worker, my approach emphasizes the impact that marginalization and oppression can have on the mental health and well-being of individuals and families. Whether you are trying to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, the impacts of marginalization, or other stressors harming your mental health, we will work together to create a safe place where you can be seen and heard while finding a healing path forward.
I partner with clients across the lifespan, helping folks to gain deeper insight into themselves, their desires, and their need for change. As a clinical social worker, my approach emphasizes the impact that marginalization and oppression can have on the mental health and well-being of individuals and families. Whether you are trying to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, the impacts of marginalization, or other stressors harming your mental health, we will work together to create a safe place where you can be seen and heard while finding a healing path forward.
(503) 213-6860 View (503) 213-6860
Photo of Sarah Milam, Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, QMHP
Sarah Milam
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, QMHP
Portland, OR 97232
I am a CSWA currently practicing under the supervision of a licensed clinical social worker as part of Mindful Therapy Group. With a background in working with children, adolescents, and transitional age young adults, I am well versed in navigating clients through changes and transitions in life and aim to provide a safe space for clients to be their most authentic self. Current specialties include working with client navigating grief/loss, trauma, Anxiety, Depression, as well as symptoms relating to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a CSWA currently practicing under the supervision of a licensed clinical social worker as part of Mindful Therapy Group. With a background in working with children, adolescents, and transitional age young adults, I am well versed in navigating clients through changes and transitions in life and aim to provide a safe space for clients to be their most authentic self. Current specialties include working with client navigating grief/loss, trauma, Anxiety, Depression, as well as symptoms relating to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(503) 483-5629 View (503) 483-5629
Photo of Kendyl Watts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kendyl Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Kendyl (she/her) and I'm glad you found me here! I am passionate about supporting people who want to feel better. I especially enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, and individuals experiencing infertility, pregnancy, and more. I provide letters of support for gender-affirming medical care and Assisted Reproductive Technologies. I strive to offer an affirming environment for ALL people, regardless of body size or ability, racial and ethnic identities, gender identity, religion, relationship status, and sexual behavior.
Hi, I'm Kendyl (she/her) and I'm glad you found me here! I am passionate about supporting people who want to feel better. I especially enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, and individuals experiencing infertility, pregnancy, and more. I provide letters of support for gender-affirming medical care and Assisted Reproductive Technologies. I strive to offer an affirming environment for ALL people, regardless of body size or ability, racial and ethnic identities, gender identity, religion, relationship status, and sexual behavior.
(971) 801-7744 View (971) 801-7744
Photo of David Ju, Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MD
David Ju
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MD
Portland, OR 97205
My journey to becoming a therapist has been deeply shaped by my own transformative experiences as a client. With an M.D. and engineering degree, I navigated various careers while battling worsening anxiety and depression until a wise counselor helped me understand the impact of my childhood traumas, accept my true feelings and needs, and stop living for others. Since then, as a therapist, I have had the privilege to offer the same support and guidance to others, helping them discover and embrace their true selves, break free and heal from trauma, and experience a life that is no longer about surviving but living authentically.
My journey to becoming a therapist has been deeply shaped by my own transformative experiences as a client. With an M.D. and engineering degree, I navigated various careers while battling worsening anxiety and depression until a wise counselor helped me understand the impact of my childhood traumas, accept my true feelings and needs, and stop living for others. Since then, as a therapist, I have had the privilege to offer the same support and guidance to others, helping them discover and embrace their true selves, break free and heal from trauma, and experience a life that is no longer about surviving but living authentically.
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Photo of Gisele Yawa Dessou, Professional Counselor Associate , MA, PCA
Gisele Yawa Dessou
Professional Counselor Associate , MA, PCA
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, or navigating difficult relationships that affect your ability to connect, communicate, and thrive within your family, relationship, or everyday life? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, or spiritually disconnected by the pressure to hold it all together, live up to others' expectations, or carry generational pain without a space to process it? Do you hope that healing, clarity, and peace are still possible for yourself, your relationship, or your family, uncertain, and emotionally burdened as you try to navigate identity, trauma, and relationships?
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, or navigating difficult relationships that affect your ability to connect, communicate, and thrive within your family, relationship, or everyday life? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, or spiritually disconnected by the pressure to hold it all together, live up to others' expectations, or carry generational pain without a space to process it? Do you hope that healing, clarity, and peace are still possible for yourself, your relationship, or your family, uncertain, and emotionally burdened as you try to navigate identity, trauma, and relationships?
(503) 837-8332 View (503) 837-8332
Photo of Benjamin Clark Porter Froeschle - Ben Froeschle, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Ben Froeschle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
I enjoy working with clients struggling with feelings of disconnection from their lives, values, and goals using true connection, warmth, and authenticity as a foundation for change. My clients value me as an attentive listener, but also I do not shy away from non-judgmentally reflecting on patterns in thought and behavior to find clarity. I work with older teens and adults of all backgrounds, and I have experience working with folks of diverse sexualities, gender experiences, cultural backgrounds, body sizes, and relationship dynamics.
I enjoy working with clients struggling with feelings of disconnection from their lives, values, and goals using true connection, warmth, and authenticity as a foundation for change. My clients value me as an attentive listener, but also I do not shy away from non-judgmentally reflecting on patterns in thought and behavior to find clarity. I work with older teens and adults of all backgrounds, and I have experience working with folks of diverse sexualities, gender experiences, cultural backgrounds, body sizes, and relationship dynamics.
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Photo of Palma A Corral Sotelo, Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Palma A Corral Sotelo
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Have you lost your way? Are you confused or stuck? Do you believe you feel too much or not enough? Have things stopped making sense or lost their meaning for you? Are you carrying baggage from your past, unable to transform it or let it go? Are you undergoing big changes and feel worried or afraid? Is your inner dialogue harsh and critical? Are you afraid to trust yourself and others? Do you feel isolated, unconnected and lonely? Life is filled with challenges and situations that overwhelm us. Our emotional lives can become confusing, and our experiences can trap us into patterns of beliefs and behaviors that diminish our powers.
Have you lost your way? Are you confused or stuck? Do you believe you feel too much or not enough? Have things stopped making sense or lost their meaning for you? Are you carrying baggage from your past, unable to transform it or let it go? Are you undergoing big changes and feel worried or afraid? Is your inner dialogue harsh and critical? Are you afraid to trust yourself and others? Do you feel isolated, unconnected and lonely? Life is filled with challenges and situations that overwhelm us. Our emotional lives can become confusing, and our experiences can trap us into patterns of beliefs and behaviors that diminish our powers.
(503) 308-4315 View (503) 308-4315
Photo of Vanessa Vega, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Vanessa Vega
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a Counselor licensed in Oregon and Texas with training in strengths-based and goal-focused therapies. I have a master’s degree in Rehabilitation counseling. I have worked with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Aside from process therapy, I am also active with psycho-educational therapy, assisting clients to broaden their knowledge and awareness to physical, social and environmental factors of their lifestyles. I enjoy working with clients who are on a road to healing and recovery, and feel honored to assist them in the journey.
I am a Counselor licensed in Oregon and Texas with training in strengths-based and goal-focused therapies. I have a master’s degree in Rehabilitation counseling. I have worked with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Aside from process therapy, I am also active with psycho-educational therapy, assisting clients to broaden their knowledge and awareness to physical, social and environmental factors of their lifestyles. I enjoy working with clients who are on a road to healing and recovery, and feel honored to assist them in the journey.
(503) 832-6812 View (503) 832-6812
Photo of Melissa Gutierrez - Lunar Tides Therapy LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP, LPCA
Lunar Tides Therapy LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP, LPCA
Online Only
I offer therapy services for individuals and families, and see clients between the ages of 12 and 45 years old. I approach counseling through the understanding that individuals are a product of their environmental contexts and may equally influence those contexts. I also believe that we do not exist in a stagnant and unchanging world, and are continuously evolving as individuals, which shapes my scope of practice. I focus on working with clients towards empowerment and identifying behavioral, cognitive, and emotional patterns that may no longer serve their best interests.
I offer therapy services for individuals and families, and see clients between the ages of 12 and 45 years old. I approach counseling through the understanding that individuals are a product of their environmental contexts and may equally influence those contexts. I also believe that we do not exist in a stagnant and unchanging world, and are continuously evolving as individuals, which shapes my scope of practice. I focus on working with clients towards empowerment and identifying behavioral, cognitive, and emotional patterns that may no longer serve their best interests.
(503) 974-4959 View (503) 974-4959
Photo of Mitzy King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSSW, MSW
Mitzy King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSSW, MSW
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I’m in your corner. Offering therapy that is relational, affirming and empathetic while grounded in feminist and social justice values. I use evidence based modalities and a bit of intuition to partner with you on your therapeutic journey. I foster a space where you can explore your identities, your values and life experiences.
I’m in your corner. Offering therapy that is relational, affirming and empathetic while grounded in feminist and social justice values. I use evidence based modalities and a bit of intuition to partner with you on your therapeutic journey. I foster a space where you can explore your identities, your values and life experiences.
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Photo of Jennifer Blair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Blair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
My priority as a therapist is building a secure relationship where you feel seen, cared for, and safe to explore uncomfortable or overwhelming parts of your life. I support folks develop new ways of thinking so they can release old patterns and embrace new realities that are in greater alignment to the way we want to feel and be in their life.
My priority as a therapist is building a secure relationship where you feel seen, cared for, and safe to explore uncomfortable or overwhelming parts of your life. I support folks develop new ways of thinking so they can release old patterns and embrace new realities that are in greater alignment to the way we want to feel and be in their life.
(971) 414-4076 View (971) 414-4076
Photo of Justine Lockhart, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Justine Lockhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Are you navigating anxiety and stressful situations such as interpersonal conflict, social anxiety, school anxiety, and work stress? Do you long to engage in self-discovery in terms of identity (sexuality, gender, who you are in relation to others, life dreams, etc.)? Are you experiencing life transitions such as leaving for college, a breakup, a new career, or moving? Do you live with OCD? Do you want to create a more meaningful life in alignment with your values?
Are you navigating anxiety and stressful situations such as interpersonal conflict, social anxiety, school anxiety, and work stress? Do you long to engage in self-discovery in terms of identity (sexuality, gender, who you are in relation to others, life dreams, etc.)? Are you experiencing life transitions such as leaving for college, a breakup, a new career, or moving? Do you live with OCD? Do you want to create a more meaningful life in alignment with your values?
(971) 257-8275 View (971) 257-8275
Photo of Aaron L Good, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC, CCC
Aaron L Good
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC, CCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide mental health and career counseling to individuals and couples dealing with life's challenges. Do you want to understand more about yourself, about your identity, about the way the patterns you've learned in the past might no longer be serving you? Do you deal with the challenges of depression, anxiety, guilt, past trauma, and grief or loss? Come on in and we can explore all of it in a supportive environment.
I provide mental health and career counseling to individuals and couples dealing with life's challenges. Do you want to understand more about yourself, about your identity, about the way the patterns you've learned in the past might no longer be serving you? Do you deal with the challenges of depression, anxiety, guilt, past trauma, and grief or loss? Come on in and we can explore all of it in a supportive environment.
(503) 743-0629 View (503) 743-0629
Photo of Nicole R Galberth, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nicole R Galberth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
If you’re feeling worn down by the weight of your experiences—whether it’s trauma, grief, anxiety, or that deep, hard-to-name ache—I want you to know that you’re not invisible here. Many of us walk through life holding pieces of pain that no one else sees, doing our best just to get through the day. That quiet strength is powerful, but it can also be isolating. You deserve a space where you don’t have to be “strong,” where your story is held with care, without judgment. Healing isn’t about having it all together—it’s about finding moments of safety, understanding, and connection along the way.
If you’re feeling worn down by the weight of your experiences—whether it’s trauma, grief, anxiety, or that deep, hard-to-name ache—I want you to know that you’re not invisible here. Many of us walk through life holding pieces of pain that no one else sees, doing our best just to get through the day. That quiet strength is powerful, but it can also be isolating. You deserve a space where you don’t have to be “strong,” where your story is held with care, without judgment. Healing isn’t about having it all together—it’s about finding moments of safety, understanding, and connection along the way.
(971) 290-1345 View (971) 290-1345
Photo of Michele Rainier, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Michele Rainier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Portland, OR 97227
You’re trying your best to hold it all together but right now you feel exhausted, overwhelmed and stuck. You are struggling to find meaning and unsure of what to do next. You’ve done everything you “should” be doing but your life isn’t unfolding in the way that you hoped it would. You feel unmotivated, disengaged from life, unsatisfied, uninspired and inhibited. Perhaps you secretly wonder if you’re a bad person or if something is wrong with you. You’re not sure exactly why you feel this way. It doesn’t add up for you. To complicate things further, you beat yourself up for not feeling the way that you think you should.
You’re trying your best to hold it all together but right now you feel exhausted, overwhelmed and stuck. You are struggling to find meaning and unsure of what to do next. You’ve done everything you “should” be doing but your life isn’t unfolding in the way that you hoped it would. You feel unmotivated, disengaged from life, unsatisfied, uninspired and inhibited. Perhaps you secretly wonder if you’re a bad person or if something is wrong with you. You’re not sure exactly why you feel this way. It doesn’t add up for you. To complicate things further, you beat yourself up for not feeling the way that you think you should.
(971) 260-4256 View (971) 260-4256
Photo of Sharon Hatrak, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Sharon Hatrak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Portland, OR 97233
Individual, Group, Family, Couples counseling. Sharon believes that we have tremendous capacity to grow, heal, and learn when given the opportunity to share, reflect, and problem solve in the context of an accepting and supportive therapeutic relationship. She uses a person centered approach and expressive therapy techniques to partner with clients to clearly define needs, strengths, coping strategies and solutions. I grew up on the east coast but have lived in Portland since college. I really love the beautiful Northwest.
Individual, Group, Family, Couples counseling. Sharon believes that we have tremendous capacity to grow, heal, and learn when given the opportunity to share, reflect, and problem solve in the context of an accepting and supportive therapeutic relationship. She uses a person centered approach and expressive therapy techniques to partner with clients to clearly define needs, strengths, coping strategies and solutions. I grew up on the east coast but have lived in Portland since college. I really love the beautiful Northwest.
(971) 318-5094 View (971) 318-5094
Photo of Nikki Frederick, Psychologist, PhD
Nikki Frederick
Psychologist, PhD
Portland, OR 97209
I offer consultation, clinical supervision, and therapy. I take a relational and collaborative approach in all of my work and strive to create a space for clients to be genuine and transparent as we work together to address their needs. I am a good fit for individuals who are looking to gain deeper self-awareness and insight, increase meaning and fulfillment in their lives, and reduce mental health symptoms that interfere with their wellness. Clients report that they benefit from my integrative, relational approach to psychotherapy.
I offer consultation, clinical supervision, and therapy. I take a relational and collaborative approach in all of my work and strive to create a space for clients to be genuine and transparent as we work together to address their needs. I am a good fit for individuals who are looking to gain deeper self-awareness and insight, increase meaning and fulfillment in their lives, and reduce mental health symptoms that interfere with their wellness. Clients report that they benefit from my integrative, relational approach to psychotherapy.
(503) 210-5235 View (503) 210-5235

See more therapy options for Portland

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$169

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
84% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

61% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% PacificSource

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% 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.