Therapists in Hazelwood, Portland, OR

Photo of Jacey Small, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacey Small
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I have worked with survivors of trauma for ten years. As a child survivor of narcissistic and abusive parents myself, I have fallen in love with the work of assisting survivors on their own path to safety, healing, and even joy! I specialize in survivors of narcissistic abuse, especially within adult children of narcissistic parents and intimate partners of narcissists. Having a Narcissist parent/partner is something you can only truly understand if you have experienced it personally, and it is my mission in life to use my own experiences and knowledge to help YOU understand and heal from the impacts of this kind of abuse.
I have worked with survivors of trauma for ten years. As a child survivor of narcissistic and abusive parents myself, I have fallen in love with the work of assisting survivors on their own path to safety, healing, and even joy! I specialize in survivors of narcissistic abuse, especially within adult children of narcissistic parents and intimate partners of narcissists. Having a Narcissist parent/partner is something you can only truly understand if you have experienced it personally, and it is my mission in life to use my own experiences and knowledge to help YOU understand and heal from the impacts of this kind of abuse.
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Photo of Sylas L Veit, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sylas L Veit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216
Note: Currently only accepting clients for relationship or couples therapy. As a queer and trans relationship therapist, I help my clients envision a culture of their relationship that honors their whole selves while building effective communication. This could include learning how to recognize and express needs for connection; navigating conflicts in a compassionate way; exploring boundaries for non-monogamous relationships; or re-establishing trust after conflicts. I specialize in working with people who live outside of the "norm," including queer, kinky and non-monogamous folks, from a non-judgmental and liberatory framework.
Note: Currently only accepting clients for relationship or couples therapy. As a queer and trans relationship therapist, I help my clients envision a culture of their relationship that honors their whole selves while building effective communication. This could include learning how to recognize and express needs for connection; navigating conflicts in a compassionate way; exploring boundaries for non-monogamous relationships; or re-establishing trust after conflicts. I specialize in working with people who live outside of the "norm," including queer, kinky and non-monogamous folks, from a non-judgmental and liberatory framework.
(971) 717-3995 View (971) 717-3995
Photo of Donald Bonner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donald Bonner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
There are many challenges in life that may inhibit our creativity and preoccupy our minds, resulting in rumination, mood swings, and anxiety. My name is Donald Bonner, LCSW, LLC and I provide mental health treatment to empower the client to find their authentic self and achieve their full potential.
There are many challenges in life that may inhibit our creativity and preoccupy our minds, resulting in rumination, mood swings, and anxiety. My name is Donald Bonner, LCSW, LLC and I provide mental health treatment to empower the client to find their authentic self and achieve their full potential.
(971) 239-4081 View (971) 239-4081
Photo of Savannah V. Jackson, AAS, BA, MA-Psy, LPCr, QMHPr, Pre-Licensed Professional
Savannah V. Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional, AAS, BA, MA-Psy, LPCr, QMHPr
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client wants to be engaged during therapy. My clients come prepared to do heavy work that is necessary to heal and move on from their issues. I expect accountability, transparency, a willingness to do homework, and be vulnerable during sessions. I employ a diverse approach to psychology that is specifically tailored to each person. Overall, this takes the shape of mindfulness cognitive behavior therapy. This feminist-queer lens includes your intersectional identity, personal goals, individual growth speed, identity, religious background, ethnicity, race, sexuality, gender, social economic status, and social stratification.
My ideal client wants to be engaged during therapy. My clients come prepared to do heavy work that is necessary to heal and move on from their issues. I expect accountability, transparency, a willingness to do homework, and be vulnerable during sessions. I employ a diverse approach to psychology that is specifically tailored to each person. Overall, this takes the shape of mindfulness cognitive behavior therapy. This feminist-queer lens includes your intersectional identity, personal goals, individual growth speed, identity, religious background, ethnicity, race, sexuality, gender, social economic status, and social stratification.
(503) 966-4187 View (503) 966-4187
Photo of Kimberly Gerhardt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Gerhardt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97230  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(971) 801-6302 View (971) 801-6302
Photo of Brita Fosse, PsyD, Psychologist
Brita Fosse
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe a strong therapeutic alliance is the key to developing a plan for change and that therapy is a collaborative process. I relate to clients with warmth and honesty (as well as some occasional humor) that promotes space for non-judgmental and empathic exploration of experiences. My goal is to provide a friendly, safe environment where clients can authentically express themselves and gain insight that informs meaningful change. As a generalist psychologist, I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds with a variety of presenting concerns.
I believe a strong therapeutic alliance is the key to developing a plan for change and that therapy is a collaborative process. I relate to clients with warmth and honesty (as well as some occasional humor) that promotes space for non-judgmental and empathic exploration of experiences. My goal is to provide a friendly, safe environment where clients can authentically express themselves and gain insight that informs meaningful change. As a generalist psychologist, I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds with a variety of presenting concerns.
(503) 549-4501 View (503) 549-4501
Photo of Khrystal Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Khrystal Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Finding the right therapist can sometimes feel overwhelming. It's no secret that how well you connect with your counselor is essential to flourishing in therapy, and you have a right to choose what works for you. Therefore, I offer the first session free, so that you can decide if my approach best suits your needs.
Finding the right therapist can sometimes feel overwhelming. It's no secret that how well you connect with your counselor is essential to flourishing in therapy, and you have a right to choose what works for you. Therefore, I offer the first session free, so that you can decide if my approach best suits your needs.
(503) 564-7904 View (503) 564-7904
Photo of Elizabeth (Liz) Ash, LPC-A, LPC Intern
Elizabeth (Liz) Ash
LPC Intern, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Do you have difficulty with feeling overly sensitive, not knowing what helps you in times of trouble, or focusing on what’s important to you? Maybe you desire structure, consistency, or the ability to stand up for yourself or others you care about? If your dreams and hopes for confidence, community, and creativity aren't developing strong roots in your life, please get in contact with me as a strong action towards cultivating that growth. Most experienced with LGBTQ+ and trauma survivors.
Do you have difficulty with feeling overly sensitive, not knowing what helps you in times of trouble, or focusing on what’s important to you? Maybe you desire structure, consistency, or the ability to stand up for yourself or others you care about? If your dreams and hopes for confidence, community, and creativity aren't developing strong roots in your life, please get in contact with me as a strong action towards cultivating that growth. Most experienced with LGBTQ+ and trauma survivors.
(971) 369-9415 View (971) 369-9415
Photo of Lisa Marie Taylor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Marie Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
You are not alone. You are not broken. You are not lost. You are more than your feelings and thoughts. You are whole. You are unique. You are your mind, body, and spirit. Healing is a process and a way of being. You have so much to give and receive. No matter what your struggle, whether it's depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, fear, shame, or lack of self-discipline, let me support you in this process to live the life you want to live. Available Wednesday through Friday with more flexibility on Thursday.
You are not alone. You are not broken. You are not lost. You are more than your feelings and thoughts. You are whole. You are unique. You are your mind, body, and spirit. Healing is a process and a way of being. You have so much to give and receive. No matter what your struggle, whether it's depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, fear, shame, or lack of self-discipline, let me support you in this process to live the life you want to live. Available Wednesday through Friday with more flexibility on Thursday.
(503) 836-8275 View (503) 836-8275
Photo of Nicci Ramsey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicci Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
*Closed* I am a dedicated mental health therapist. I truly believe that it is important to remain open in a field that is constantly changing and developing. I am grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of others’ lives and their process of learning, awareness, and change. I have experience across several populations and thrive while working with adolescents, adults, and families. I look forward to opportunities to collaborate with you and support you through your therapy process. I have a tremendous respect for ethics, being client centered, 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming, culturally sensitivity, and strength based care.
*Closed* I am a dedicated mental health therapist. I truly believe that it is important to remain open in a field that is constantly changing and developing. I am grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of others’ lives and their process of learning, awareness, and change. I have experience across several populations and thrive while working with adolescents, adults, and families. I look forward to opportunities to collaborate with you and support you through your therapy process. I have a tremendous respect for ethics, being client centered, 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming, culturally sensitivity, and strength based care.
(971) 800-2506 View (971) 800-2506
Photo of Rebecca A Kinman, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rebecca A Kinman
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97233  (Online Only)
You’ve been scrolling through social media for an hour now even though you said you’d meet up with a friend. Your electric bill is overdue—because you simply forgot to pay it. Your laundry and dishes pile up while you spend most of your time on your latest hobby—one that you will drop as soon as it becomes boring or difficult. This leaves you feeling frustrated, helpless, and as though something is wrong with you.
You’ve been scrolling through social media for an hour now even though you said you’d meet up with a friend. Your electric bill is overdue—because you simply forgot to pay it. Your laundry and dishes pile up while you spend most of your time on your latest hobby—one that you will drop as soon as it becomes boring or difficult. This leaves you feeling frustrated, helpless, and as though something is wrong with you.
(503) 854-5722 View (503) 854-5722
Photo of Skip Shewell - Skip Shewell Counseling, LLC, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Skip Shewell Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220
I am a queer trans-identified licensed professional therapist practicing clinical psychotherapy for over 16 years. My practice is based out of Portland, OR and Seattle, WA. I specialize in working with teen and adult queer, non-binary, gender and neurodiverse, and poly-relationships. I have extensive experience and work with counseling both individuals and couples in a wide variety settings such as primary health care clinics, urban and rural tribal health care, community mental health treatment centers, and major healthcare facilities.
I am a queer trans-identified licensed professional therapist practicing clinical psychotherapy for over 16 years. My practice is based out of Portland, OR and Seattle, WA. I specialize in working with teen and adult queer, non-binary, gender and neurodiverse, and poly-relationships. I have extensive experience and work with counseling both individuals and couples in a wide variety settings such as primary health care clinics, urban and rural tribal health care, community mental health treatment centers, and major healthcare facilities.
(503) 461-7427 View (503) 461-7427
Photo of Renata Austin, MS, NCC
Renata Austin
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220
Hello and welcome! I offer non-judgmental, strength-based and empathic care to individuals navigating life transitions, friend and family relationship difficulties, intergenerational trauma, regret/guilt/shame, racial identity development, and oppression. I welcome people of all identities in my practice. As a neurodivergent and biracial individual, I am particularly passionate about supporting individuals who exist at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities. I consider how you are affected by power, privilege and oppression and broach those conversations in our work.
Hello and welcome! I offer non-judgmental, strength-based and empathic care to individuals navigating life transitions, friend and family relationship difficulties, intergenerational trauma, regret/guilt/shame, racial identity development, and oppression. I welcome people of all identities in my practice. As a neurodivergent and biracial individual, I am particularly passionate about supporting individuals who exist at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities. I consider how you are affected by power, privilege and oppression and broach those conversations in our work.
(503) 917-3995 View (503) 917-3995
Photo of Sarah Lundy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Lundy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
Experiencing depression or anxiety while going through a significant life transition can be overwhelming and disorienting. From starting a new job to stepping into retirement. It is normal to feel self-doubt and uncertainty in new situations. During these times, we often recognize negative or other unhelpful ways of thinking that are getting in our way but we don't know how to change them. My goal is to guide you towards stepping into the next phase of your life with a greater understanding of who you are and increased fulfillment. From finding more self-confidence to developing better relationships with family and friends.
Experiencing depression or anxiety while going through a significant life transition can be overwhelming and disorienting. From starting a new job to stepping into retirement. It is normal to feel self-doubt and uncertainty in new situations. During these times, we often recognize negative or other unhelpful ways of thinking that are getting in our way but we don't know how to change them. My goal is to guide you towards stepping into the next phase of your life with a greater understanding of who you are and increased fulfillment. From finding more self-confidence to developing better relationships with family and friends.
(503) 739-9332 View (503) 739-9332
Polly Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe we all need and want to feel connected to other people. Our relationships can bring the greatest joy and yet can serve as our greatest source of pain. I come along side you to identify patterns, perceptions and communication that can help or hinder your relationships, and can affect your mind, body, and spirit. Working together, we will activate your own strengths, equip you with practical tools for coping and thriving, and release those burdens that have prevented you from trusting, connecting and expressing your emotions to others in a constructive way.
I believe we all need and want to feel connected to other people. Our relationships can bring the greatest joy and yet can serve as our greatest source of pain. I come along side you to identify patterns, perceptions and communication that can help or hinder your relationships, and can affect your mind, body, and spirit. Working together, we will activate your own strengths, equip you with practical tools for coping and thriving, and release those burdens that have prevented you from trusting, connecting and expressing your emotions to others in a constructive way.
(971) 314-4832 View (971) 314-4832
Photo of Chip Kosboth, MA, PC
Chip Kosboth
MA, PC
Verified Verified
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
I approach my work with warmth, curiosity, humor and directness. I work to build a respectful, judgement free space where you can express emotions, discover your authentic voice, try new things, and identify needs and wants that may have been neglected. I want to help you become more authentic, connected and fulfilled. I bring a wealth of experience to our work together. In my 25 yr career, I spent many years doing crisis work as well as working in a supermax mental health unit witnessing the extremes of mental illness.
I approach my work with warmth, curiosity, humor and directness. I work to build a respectful, judgement free space where you can express emotions, discover your authentic voice, try new things, and identify needs and wants that may have been neglected. I want to help you become more authentic, connected and fulfilled. I bring a wealth of experience to our work together. In my 25 yr career, I spent many years doing crisis work as well as working in a supermax mental health unit witnessing the extremes of mental illness.
(971) 364-4337 View (971) 364-4337
Photo of Ami Koide, Ami, Koide, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ami Koide
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ami, Koide, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220
I wonder what kind of therapists people scroll through psychology profiles to therapist shop for. When people ask me what my ideal client I actually wonder whats people's ideal therapists? I think this is important when thinking about an ideal client and therapists because I see it as a collaborative work. I'm not here to force you what I think is best for you, therapy is something both the client and therapist figure out together to meet the clients' needs and goals.
I wonder what kind of therapists people scroll through psychology profiles to therapist shop for. When people ask me what my ideal client I actually wonder whats people's ideal therapists? I think this is important when thinking about an ideal client and therapists because I see it as a collaborative work. I'm not here to force you what I think is best for you, therapy is something both the client and therapist figure out together to meet the clients' needs and goals.
(714) 681-1082 View (714) 681-1082
Photo of Jessica Macklin, LPC, CADCIII, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Macklin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
I believe that human nature in its many forms is always evolving and if we are able to harness and lean into this change and learn to grow in healthy ways we can become our best selves. I seek to build a positive therapeutic relationship with all my clients to better comprehend the problems that they may be dealing with in their lives and attempt to assist them in finding healthy resolutions.
I believe that human nature in its many forms is always evolving and if we are able to harness and lean into this change and learn to grow in healthy ways we can become our best selves. I seek to build a positive therapeutic relationship with all my clients to better comprehend the problems that they may be dealing with in their lives and attempt to assist them in finding healthy resolutions.
(971) 239-4985 View (971) 239-4985
Photo of Heather Leigh Gasser, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Leigh Gasser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like now is the time to make a change for the better? Have you been feeling stuck, unmotivated and have lost interest in things that used to bring you joy? Or maybe anxiety and stress are holding you back and overwhelming you. Has it gotten so bad you are tempted to lose hope altogether that things can be better? Maybe you've been trying to escape with various addictions and distractions that provide a temporary solution only to leave you feeling worse than ever. Do you want to get your life back?
Are you feeling like now is the time to make a change for the better? Have you been feeling stuck, unmotivated and have lost interest in things that used to bring you joy? Or maybe anxiety and stress are holding you back and overwhelming you. Has it gotten so bad you are tempted to lose hope altogether that things can be better? Maybe you've been trying to escape with various addictions and distractions that provide a temporary solution only to leave you feeling worse than ever. Do you want to get your life back?
(360) 732-8922 View (360) 732-8922
Photo of Mindy L Feather, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindy L Feather
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hazelwood, Portland, OR 97216
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to give kids a safe place to explore their thoughts and feelings and then empower their caregivers with information and insight into their child's experience. I can also provide supportive techniques for caregivers in filial therapy and attachment methods which include playful activities that help you enjoy parenting again. I am passionate about treating children with anxiety and trauma concerns. My decade of experience has been focused on working with children who have been through the trauma of grief, divorce, neglect, and sexual, physical, or emotional abuse.
My goal is to give kids a safe place to explore their thoughts and feelings and then empower their caregivers with information and insight into their child's experience. I can also provide supportive techniques for caregivers in filial therapy and attachment methods which include playful activities that help you enjoy parenting again. I am passionate about treating children with anxiety and trauma concerns. My decade of experience has been focused on working with children who have been through the trauma of grief, divorce, neglect, and sexual, physical, or emotional abuse.
(503) 782-4061 View (503) 782-4061
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hazelwood, Portland, OR

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hazelwood, Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Relationship Issues
66% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

62% Aetna
53% Cigna and Evernorth
53% PacificSource

How Therapists in Hazelwood, Portland, OR see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hazelwood, 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.