Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Christine Tam, Professional Counselor Associate , MS, NCC
Christine Tam
Professional Counselor Associate , MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
We might be a good fit if you are: -Feeling stuck or frozen, -Experiencing loneliness or isolation, -Experiencing symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, -Exploring identity and/or purpose, -Wanting support with interpersonal relationships, -Working on self-compassion.
We might be a good fit if you are: -Feeling stuck or frozen, -Experiencing loneliness or isolation, -Experiencing symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, -Exploring identity and/or purpose, -Wanting support with interpersonal relationships, -Working on self-compassion.
(503) 213-9235 View (503) 213-9235
Photo of Mandy Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Mandy Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
Asking for help can feel daunting and may also be your window to healing. My goal is to offer a safe space for you to ask the scary questions, feel the unwanted pain, get to know your emotions and reacquaint yourself with your strength and resilience that may feel so distant. A counseling relationship can offer you reflection and insight to what is making you feel stuck. With you, I will help you discover the obstacles blocking your path, rediscover your personal assets and help you grow your skill set to work through these obstacles.
Asking for help can feel daunting and may also be your window to healing. My goal is to offer a safe space for you to ask the scary questions, feel the unwanted pain, get to know your emotions and reacquaint yourself with your strength and resilience that may feel so distant. A counseling relationship can offer you reflection and insight to what is making you feel stuck. With you, I will help you discover the obstacles blocking your path, rediscover your personal assets and help you grow your skill set to work through these obstacles.
(503) 966-5564 View (503) 966-5564
Photo of Daniel McClure, Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Daniel McClure
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Are you feeling weighed down by depression, struggling to find hope or motivation? Whether you're new to counseling or considering re-engaging in this meaningful work, I'm here to offer you support. My approach is centered on authenticity, empathy, and creating a space of unconditional acceptance. I understand the challenges of navigating depression, and I'm dedicated to providing a holistic approach that meets you where you are. Together, we'll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, focusing on your strengths and goals. I center warmth, compassion, and gentle directness, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
Are you feeling weighed down by depression, struggling to find hope or motivation? Whether you're new to counseling or considering re-engaging in this meaningful work, I'm here to offer you support. My approach is centered on authenticity, empathy, and creating a space of unconditional acceptance. I understand the challenges of navigating depression, and I'm dedicated to providing a holistic approach that meets you where you are. Together, we'll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, focusing on your strengths and goals. I center warmth, compassion, and gentle directness, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
(503) 662-9448 View (503) 662-9448
Photo of Lark Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lark Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ready for change? Tired of simple talk therapy that doesn't result in the change you seek? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears. We can heal the wounds of the past, draining away shame. Resolving inner conflicts frees us up. I tailor therapy to each unique individual, to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
Ready for change? Tired of simple talk therapy that doesn't result in the change you seek? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears. We can heal the wounds of the past, draining away shame. Resolving inner conflicts frees us up. I tailor therapy to each unique individual, to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
(503) 461-7663 View (503) 461-7663
Photo of Laurie Crandall, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NBCC
Laurie Crandall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
(503) 536-1231 View (503) 536-1231
Photo of Dolores Saenz Davila - Dolores Saenz Davila Individualized Care, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW S
Dolores Saenz Davila Individualized Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello and welcome. My training at the Yale Child Study Center allowed me to gain invaluable experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Seeking assistance during difficult times is no easy task and acknowledging that we need help is the most difficult first step. Life is not always easy. I find working with parents, children and adolescents, and working professionals to be very rewarding as we work together during your process of change. It brings me such gratitude to be a part of your healing process as we work on life transitions, trauma, stress, anxiety, or depression.
Hello and welcome. My training at the Yale Child Study Center allowed me to gain invaluable experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Seeking assistance during difficult times is no easy task and acknowledging that we need help is the most difficult first step. Life is not always easy. I find working with parents, children and adolescents, and working professionals to be very rewarding as we work together during your process of change. It brings me such gratitude to be a part of your healing process as we work on life transitions, trauma, stress, anxiety, or depression.
(458) 214-2735 View (458) 214-2735
Photo of Allen Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Allen Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
Allen beleives in an eclectic approach to treatment based on client need and worldview, incorporating Mindfulnessbased CBT, Solution Focused Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential treatment modalities. His main areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Phase of Life Transitions, and Career and Educational Guidance. In his spare time, Allen enjoys travel with family and friends, contemplation, and creative expression in various formats.
Allen beleives in an eclectic approach to treatment based on client need and worldview, incorporating Mindfulnessbased CBT, Solution Focused Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential treatment modalities. His main areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Phase of Life Transitions, and Career and Educational Guidance. In his spare time, Allen enjoys travel with family and friends, contemplation, and creative expression in various formats.
(971) 626-4442 View (971) 626-4442
Photo of Dr. Danielle Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ATR
Dr. Danielle Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I offer outpatient telehealth therapy in Colorado, Hawaii, and Oregon for women in theirs 20s and 30s struggling with trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, neurodiversity, eating disorders, mood disorders, and more. I also work with graduate students in need of counseling hours for their program, or for support as they navigate professional development and engage in deep self-reflection. I specialize in life transitions into adulthood and at mid-life. I aim to help women cultivate their authentic selves, attune to the innate wisdom of the body, manage symptoms, as well as delve into childhood trauma and attachment wounds.
Hello! I offer outpatient telehealth therapy in Colorado, Hawaii, and Oregon for women in theirs 20s and 30s struggling with trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, neurodiversity, eating disorders, mood disorders, and more. I also work with graduate students in need of counseling hours for their program, or for support as they navigate professional development and engage in deep self-reflection. I specialize in life transitions into adulthood and at mid-life. I aim to help women cultivate their authentic selves, attune to the innate wisdom of the body, manage symptoms, as well as delve into childhood trauma and attachment wounds.
(808) 207-9325 View (808) 207-9325
Photo of Kenz Taggatz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kenz Taggatz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
Using a holistic blend of trauma-informed, liberation-focused, somatically and relationally grounded approaches, we will focus on creating boundaries, healing experiences of trauma, exploring the ways your life and the broader world have shaped you, release what doesn't nourish you, while resourcing you with community and embodiment. Several theories and paradigms inform my practice, many of which you can see listed in the "treatment preferences" section below. I allow my passion and curiosity to guide me in pursuing new trainings, community discussions, justice work, and other opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Using a holistic blend of trauma-informed, liberation-focused, somatically and relationally grounded approaches, we will focus on creating boundaries, healing experiences of trauma, exploring the ways your life and the broader world have shaped you, release what doesn't nourish you, while resourcing you with community and embodiment. Several theories and paradigms inform my practice, many of which you can see listed in the "treatment preferences" section below. I allow my passion and curiosity to guide me in pursuing new trainings, community discussions, justice work, and other opportunities for personal and professional growth.
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Photo of Donnell Adair, Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Donnell Adair
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I’m Donnell, a Portland-based Black, cisgender, able-bodied mental health provider committed to culturally responsive therapy. My approach is rooted in decolonizing therapy, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by Black individuals and communities. I aim to create a space where you are the expert of your own story, focusing on race, identity, and systemic oppression's impact on mental health.
I’m Donnell, a Portland-based Black, cisgender, able-bodied mental health provider committed to culturally responsive therapy. My approach is rooted in decolonizing therapy, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by Black individuals and communities. I aim to create a space where you are the expert of your own story, focusing on race, identity, and systemic oppression's impact on mental health.
(971) 446-7442 View (971) 446-7442
Photo of Alex Chapman, Music Therapist, MT-BC
Alex Chapman
Music Therapist, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
At the Center for Music Therapy and OCD I specialize in Exposure and Response (ERP) treatment for OCD, anxiety and panic. I believe in the evidence based protocol to help clients get their life back from the turmoil of OCD, anxiety and panic. As a music therapist I have merged two evidence based treatments into one robust approach to care. Musician and non-musician alike can break free from their intrusive thoughts and get back to living in the present. I am specifically trained to work with kids, their families and adults dealing with OCD, anxiety, panic and cooccurring disorders such as ADHD, ASD and others.
At the Center for Music Therapy and OCD I specialize in Exposure and Response (ERP) treatment for OCD, anxiety and panic. I believe in the evidence based protocol to help clients get their life back from the turmoil of OCD, anxiety and panic. As a music therapist I have merged two evidence based treatments into one robust approach to care. Musician and non-musician alike can break free from their intrusive thoughts and get back to living in the present. I am specifically trained to work with kids, their families and adults dealing with OCD, anxiety, panic and cooccurring disorders such as ADHD, ASD and others.
(971) 462-5001 View (971) 462-5001
Photo of Katharine Frothingham, Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Katharine Frothingham
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Therapy is one place to connect with what is most real and urgent in your life. Engaging in your own healing in this collaborative space can offer you greater connection to your own knowing. Through working together relationally, I support your development toward more integrated ways of seeing yourself. I work within the understanding that there is no separation between the mind-body and believe that all emotions can become allies once we learn to understand their contribution and regulate their energy.
Therapy is one place to connect with what is most real and urgent in your life. Engaging in your own healing in this collaborative space can offer you greater connection to your own knowing. Through working together relationally, I support your development toward more integrated ways of seeing yourself. I work within the understanding that there is no separation between the mind-body and believe that all emotions can become allies once we learn to understand their contribution and regulate their energy.
(503) 386-0889 View (503) 386-0889
Photo of Julie Bloom, Professional Counselor Associate , MA, NCC, PCA, LMHC-A
Julie Bloom
Professional Counselor Associate , MA, NCC, PCA, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I support individuals and couples navigating religious trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and those seeking LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming support. Those who have experienced pain, disappointment, and distress in faith communities are especially drawn to my work. It can be isolating to deconstruct or reconsider long-held beliefs or spiritual practices that once held a lot of hope and meaning, and to lose connection with others who don't share your new beliefs. My goal is to help you explore how embracing your full humanity and identity can be celebrated after experiences of being shamed for those aspects of you.
I support individuals and couples navigating religious trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and those seeking LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming support. Those who have experienced pain, disappointment, and distress in faith communities are especially drawn to my work. It can be isolating to deconstruct or reconsider long-held beliefs or spiritual practices that once held a lot of hope and meaning, and to lose connection with others who don't share your new beliefs. My goal is to help you explore how embracing your full humanity and identity can be celebrated after experiences of being shamed for those aspects of you.
(503) 470-4618 View (503) 470-4618
Photo of Vanessa Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Vanessa Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
**NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**. I utilize insight and action oriented approaches to support increased understanding of and empathy towards yourself, while also working to implement realistic changes that lead to increased quality of life and relationships. I work largely with clients around identity challenges, centering care for Black, brown, trans/nonbinary and LGBQIA individuals.
**NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**. I utilize insight and action oriented approaches to support increased understanding of and empathy towards yourself, while also working to implement realistic changes that lead to increased quality of life and relationships. I work largely with clients around identity challenges, centering care for Black, brown, trans/nonbinary and LGBQIA individuals.
(971) 832-5208 View (971) 832-5208
Photo of Evan Marx, LPC Intern, MA, LPCI
Evan Marx
LPC Intern, MA, LPCI
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
My passion is working with men’s issues, LGBTQ folk, people living cross-cultural lives, creatives, and trauma, especially Religious Trauma. In healing my own childhood trauma, in my training, and guiding others, I know well the remarkable power of mind/body integration. I will be with you every step of the way as you emerge into a loving, connected and free self. My holistic approach is down-to-earth and gentle, centering in mindful awareness of the present moment and how your past is shaping it. I work with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Our work is collaborative to help you reconnect with innate strengths, resources and wisdom.
My passion is working with men’s issues, LGBTQ folk, people living cross-cultural lives, creatives, and trauma, especially Religious Trauma. In healing my own childhood trauma, in my training, and guiding others, I know well the remarkable power of mind/body integration. I will be with you every step of the way as you emerge into a loving, connected and free self. My holistic approach is down-to-earth and gentle, centering in mindful awareness of the present moment and how your past is shaping it. I work with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Our work is collaborative to help you reconnect with innate strengths, resources and wisdom.
(971) 256-6099 View (971) 256-6099
Photo of Misty Bottorff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Misty Bottorff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I enjoy working with diverse populations and providing a safe place for all. I am trauma-informed and come from a strengths-based approach, using a variety of modalities including Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapy. I am honored to work with individuals and families who trust me with their stories and enjoy walking alongside my clients as they go through the therapeutic process.
I enjoy working with diverse populations and providing a safe place for all. I am trauma-informed and come from a strengths-based approach, using a variety of modalities including Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapy. I am honored to work with individuals and families who trust me with their stories and enjoy walking alongside my clients as they go through the therapeutic process.
(971) 257-1605 View (971) 257-1605
Photo of Stephani Grace, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Stephani Grace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you living the life you want to be living? Or are your struggles with anxiety, depression, addiction, weight loss etc. determining your current life experience? Let me help you transform your suffering into living a more vital, wholehearted life. Through this process you will discover, cultivate, and learn to utilize self compassion and how to steer clear of avoidance traps such as procrastination, self-medication with drugs or alcohol, and comfort eating.
Are you living the life you want to be living? Or are your struggles with anxiety, depression, addiction, weight loss etc. determining your current life experience? Let me help you transform your suffering into living a more vital, wholehearted life. Through this process you will discover, cultivate, and learn to utilize self compassion and how to steer clear of avoidance traps such as procrastination, self-medication with drugs or alcohol, and comfort eating.
(971) 264-2077 View (971) 264-2077
Photo of Raquel Stewart Mendoza, Professional Counselor Associate, MA, APC
Raquel Stewart Mendoza
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, APC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
Raquel Stewart is a Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon who has been practicing since 2021. Raquel aims to provide a safe space for people to navigate life s challenges and find healing, whether that has to do with difficult adjustments, relational dysfunctions, trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, or something else that is getting in the way of daily functioning. Raquel values and honors people s stories and lived experiences, and her hope is that through the empathy and collaboration of the counseling process people can grow by exploring their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
Raquel Stewart is a Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon who has been practicing since 2021. Raquel aims to provide a safe space for people to navigate life s challenges and find healing, whether that has to do with difficult adjustments, relational dysfunctions, trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, or something else that is getting in the way of daily functioning. Raquel values and honors people s stories and lived experiences, and her hope is that through the empathy and collaboration of the counseling process people can grow by exploring their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
(971) 414-2999 View (971) 414-2999
Photo of Susan Dawdy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Susan Dawdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
adults, elders (65+), couples, parent/child relationships, intellectual disabilities, life cycle crisis, a cancer diagnosis. Help families to explore cycles of grief, manage symptoms, learn direct strategies and processes to regain function and peace. I work with all faiths, family configurations, and cultures fostering skills to move with clarity and resilience through the developmental stages, challenges that life provides. I draw upon training and experience with the developmental model for couples therapy, object relations, narrative work, mindfulness, internal family systems centered around a client's presentation and need.
adults, elders (65+), couples, parent/child relationships, intellectual disabilities, life cycle crisis, a cancer diagnosis. Help families to explore cycles of grief, manage symptoms, learn direct strategies and processes to regain function and peace. I work with all faiths, family configurations, and cultures fostering skills to move with clarity and resilience through the developmental stages, challenges that life provides. I draw upon training and experience with the developmental model for couples therapy, object relations, narrative work, mindfulness, internal family systems centered around a client's presentation and need.
(503) 926-6332 View (503) 926-6332
Photo of Al Newman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, QMHP
Al Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I work with children and families, individuals, and couple systems. I especially love working with people who are exploring gender identity and/or sexuality.
I work with children and families, individuals, and couple systems. I especially love working with people who are exploring gender identity and/or sexuality.
(971) 414-4840 View (971) 414-4840
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See more therapy options for Portland

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
74% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
69% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

59% Aetna
50% PacificSource
49% BlueCross and BlueShield

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.