Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

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Photo of Roberta Kabat, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roberta Kabat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
People come to me confronting many issues in their lives, fears of intimacy, difficulty setting or achieving goals at work, marital problems, problems with other family members, grief and loss. I see my job as exploring these issues and finding ways to deal with and resolve them so that the patient is able to find ways to deal with their feelings, find solutions to their problems, and be able to move forward in their life in the most effective and healthy way.
People come to me confronting many issues in their lives, fears of intimacy, difficulty setting or achieving goals at work, marital problems, problems with other family members, grief and loss. I see my job as exploring these issues and finding ways to deal with and resolve them so that the patient is able to find ways to deal with their feelings, find solutions to their problems, and be able to move forward in their life in the most effective and healthy way.
(914) 340-0832 View (914) 340-0832
Photo of Alice Wang, LCSW, MSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alice Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My work is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and connection. I come to clinical social work with a deeply held belief that all people are deserving of care and I have seen how a safe and collaborative therapeutic relationship can offer support when that care has been challenged. I know that part of healing means acknowledging and working beyond the systems that have caused harm and that this involves actively employing an anti-oppressive lens that refuses to pathologize trauma survival. I understand my clients are the experts on their experiences and I am committed to creating a practice that affirms people of all backgrounds.
My work is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and connection. I come to clinical social work with a deeply held belief that all people are deserving of care and I have seen how a safe and collaborative therapeutic relationship can offer support when that care has been challenged. I know that part of healing means acknowledging and working beyond the systems that have caused harm and that this involves actively employing an anti-oppressive lens that refuses to pathologize trauma survival. I understand my clients are the experts on their experiences and I am committed to creating a practice that affirms people of all backgrounds.
(267) 651-5534 View (267) 651-5534
Photo of Kevin Guckin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Guckin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125
When we truly know ourselves, the underlying motivations for our actions, and the subconscious fears that drive us, we can begin to exercise more control over our lives and move towards self-actualization. Mental illness is often defined through a lens of dysfunction, yet, even if we were able to remove all of the dysfunction from one's life, the experience of needing support would still be present for many people. My goal is not only to make sure my clients are functioning at their best, but also that they feel strong, genuine, and intentional while doing it.
When we truly know ourselves, the underlying motivations for our actions, and the subconscious fears that drive us, we can begin to exercise more control over our lives and move towards self-actualization. Mental illness is often defined through a lens of dysfunction, yet, even if we were able to remove all of the dysfunction from one's life, the experience of needing support would still be present for many people. My goal is not only to make sure my clients are functioning at their best, but also that they feel strong, genuine, and intentional while doing it.
(215) 613-4913 View (215) 613-4913
Photo of Nicole Lynne Hooley, MSEd, P-LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicole Lynne Hooley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, P-LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125
Through a client centered approach, I incorporate an existential orientation to empower and support clients in gaining a more holistic state of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am an IFS and CBT informed practitioner that leans on nature based interventions and mindfulness/trauma-informed stress reduction tools when needed. I tend to attract clients who are looking for a warmhearted and open-minded clinician who is affirming to neurodiversity and alternative lifestyles, while being participatory in the therapeutic process.
Through a client centered approach, I incorporate an existential orientation to empower and support clients in gaining a more holistic state of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am an IFS and CBT informed practitioner that leans on nature based interventions and mindfulness/trauma-informed stress reduction tools when needed. I tend to attract clients who are looking for a warmhearted and open-minded clinician who is affirming to neurodiversity and alternative lifestyles, while being participatory in the therapeutic process.
(215) 618-9641 View (215) 618-9641
Photo of Jill Lamar, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Lamar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Jill Lamar is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. My specialties include helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief, couples therapy, and working with adolescents and clients in their 20s as they adjust to the challenges of life and the changes they bring, as well as perceived academic or vocational underperformance. I treat survivors of abuse of all kinds, as well as those who struggle with addictions and other compulsive behaviors, and, in conjunction with a medical professional, dual-diagnosis conditions.
Jill Lamar is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. My specialties include helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief, couples therapy, and working with adolescents and clients in their 20s as they adjust to the challenges of life and the changes they bring, as well as perceived academic or vocational underperformance. I treat survivors of abuse of all kinds, as well as those who struggle with addictions and other compulsive behaviors, and, in conjunction with a medical professional, dual-diagnosis conditions.
(339) 218-3090 View (339) 218-3090
Photo of Nancy Van Saun, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Van Saun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Greetings! Let me introduce myself, I'm Nancy Van Saun, LCSW. My license number is CW 013529. I have been trained in numerous modalities and theoretical frameworks. I try to adapt my approach to the client's needs. I have worked with many varying populations as well. I feel this gives me a broad perspective on a client's life experience.
Greetings! Let me introduce myself, I'm Nancy Van Saun, LCSW. My license number is CW 013529. I have been trained in numerous modalities and theoretical frameworks. I try to adapt my approach to the client's needs. I have worked with many varying populations as well. I feel this gives me a broad perspective on a client's life experience.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Tayibah Bemiah, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tayibah Bemiah
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Dr. Tayibah a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I am an action-oriented therapist who is strategic and intentional in my approach. My mission is to provide you with tools and techniques to help you deal with the personal or relationship struggles that led you to seek counseling. I am typically comfortable working with clients who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or just struggling with balancing life in general.
I am Dr. Tayibah a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I am an action-oriented therapist who is strategic and intentional in my approach. My mission is to provide you with tools and techniques to help you deal with the personal or relationship struggles that led you to seek counseling. I am typically comfortable working with clients who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or just struggling with balancing life in general.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Alphonse Pignataro, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alphonse Pignataro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
"As an interactive, solution-focused therapist, my treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients address current life challenges and long-standing issues to make important changes. My study of Family Systems Theory informs my practice and is a great resource in working with clients. With compassion and understanding, I help individuals set goals; find resolutions to a wide range of personal concerns and psychological issues. I will work in collaboration with the client to come to terms with the tension, and begin the process of integration and healing. I have over 16 years experience in private practice working with individuals, couples, families and groups.
"As an interactive, solution-focused therapist, my treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients address current life challenges and long-standing issues to make important changes. My study of Family Systems Theory informs my practice and is a great resource in working with clients. With compassion and understanding, I help individuals set goals; find resolutions to a wide range of personal concerns and psychological issues. I will work in collaboration with the client to come to terms with the tension, and begin the process of integration and healing. I have over 16 years experience in private practice working with individuals, couples, families and groups.
(215) 995-1185 View (215) 995-1185
Photo of Lauren Helga Cifoni, MA, MS
Lauren Helga Cifoni
MA, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Counselor, Certified Yoga Instructor, Swimming Instructor, & Health Coach with broad experience in the United States and Europe. Holds a Master of Arts in Communications from Italy, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the United States, and is currently enrolled in an MSW clinical program in Pennsylvania. Also provides guidance and support as an ISSA-Certified Health Coach and Master Personal Trainer to assist individuals with their nutrition and fitness goals.
Counselor, Certified Yoga Instructor, Swimming Instructor, & Health Coach with broad experience in the United States and Europe. Holds a Master of Arts in Communications from Italy, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the United States, and is currently enrolled in an MSW clinical program in Pennsylvania. Also provides guidance and support as an ISSA-Certified Health Coach and Master Personal Trainer to assist individuals with their nutrition and fitness goals.
(610) 839-7819 View (610) 839-7819
Photo of Jen Constanos, MSW, LCSW, HTMA-P, FNP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Constanos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, HTMA-P, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
《Accepting new clients》 Heyyy! Maybe this sounds familiar... "I've tried everything, and nothing works." "My anxiety feels like it's taken control over my life!" Maybe you've tried all the things...medications, expensive therapies, self-help books, diet changes, supplements, online support groups, taking days off, vacations, cutting ties with toxic people ... to leaving you still feeling anxious and exhausted from trying all the things.
《Accepting new clients》 Heyyy! Maybe this sounds familiar... "I've tried everything, and nothing works." "My anxiety feels like it's taken control over my life!" Maybe you've tried all the things...medications, expensive therapies, self-help books, diet changes, supplements, online support groups, taking days off, vacations, cutting ties with toxic people ... to leaving you still feeling anxious and exhausted from trying all the things.
(215) 631-8307 View (215) 631-8307
Photo of Dr. Dena DiNardo, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Dena DiNardo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Congratulations on your decision to explore therapy! I work exclusively with couples, families, and other intimate relationships in need of a safe space to overcome communication blocks, deepen connection(s), heal past hurt(s), and/or secure a future vision you have for you relationship or family. I value helping all participants achieve exactly what they need from therapy so you can successfully move forward with more insight, self-awareness, sustainable tools, and genuine confidence.
Congratulations on your decision to explore therapy! I work exclusively with couples, families, and other intimate relationships in need of a safe space to overcome communication blocks, deepen connection(s), heal past hurt(s), and/or secure a future vision you have for you relationship or family. I value helping all participants achieve exactly what they need from therapy so you can successfully move forward with more insight, self-awareness, sustainable tools, and genuine confidence.
(267) 867-5192 View (267) 867-5192
Photo of Shana Williams, MHS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shana Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I believe we should all have access to a space where we can be open and honest with who we are and what we need to thrive. It is important to me that I support individuals in cultivating such a space with safety and freedom of feelings, thoughts and emotions. We all deserve a chance to thrive in life and find some sense of peace and understanding of experiences that make us who we are. I am here to challenge any notions that you cannot be your best self and find solace in that.
I believe we should all have access to a space where we can be open and honest with who we are and what we need to thrive. It is important to me that I support individuals in cultivating such a space with safety and freedom of feelings, thoughts and emotions. We all deserve a chance to thrive in life and find some sense of peace and understanding of experiences that make us who we are. I am here to challenge any notions that you cannot be your best self and find solace in that.
(267) 633-8981 View (267) 633-8981
Photo of Eric Robert Mitchell, PhD, Psychologist
Eric Robert Mitchell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Those working with Neurodiversity Consultants have been serving the neurodiverse individuals for decades. Created to address the growing need for lifespan support to neurodiverse individuals (including those who identify on the autism spectrum), Neurodiversity Consultants seeks to increase access to high-quality specialized services from experienced consultants, sometimes augmenting current services where applicable to optimize outcomes. With access to a variety of consultants, Neurodiversity Consultants is able to flexibly provide myriad services. Visit us at www.NeurodiversityConsultants.com
Those working with Neurodiversity Consultants have been serving the neurodiverse individuals for decades. Created to address the growing need for lifespan support to neurodiverse individuals (including those who identify on the autism spectrum), Neurodiversity Consultants seeks to increase access to high-quality specialized services from experienced consultants, sometimes augmenting current services where applicable to optimize outcomes. With access to a variety of consultants, Neurodiversity Consultants is able to flexibly provide myriad services. Visit us at www.NeurodiversityConsultants.com
(215) 839-1218 View (215) 839-1218
Photo of Betsy Saccenti, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betsy Saccenti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
​We feel emotions in our bodies. ​​Sometimes, our emotions cause ​ physical discomfort. ​Other times, we feel so strongly we become ​​ numb and disconnected. ​​​Becoming overwhelmed can leave us ​feeling ​ lonely and misunderstood. ​​We want to connect with others and enjoy life, ​ but we also want to​ protect ourselves. ​​In therapy with me, you will learn how to understand, appreciate, and work ​with your emotions to cultivate your relationships, fulfillment, and vitality. Therapy will not remove your feelings or creativity. It will help you understand and work with your emotions, rather than succumb to them.
​We feel emotions in our bodies. ​​Sometimes, our emotions cause ​ physical discomfort. ​Other times, we feel so strongly we become ​​ numb and disconnected. ​​​Becoming overwhelmed can leave us ​feeling ​ lonely and misunderstood. ​​We want to connect with others and enjoy life, ​ but we also want to​ protect ourselves. ​​In therapy with me, you will learn how to understand, appreciate, and work ​with your emotions to cultivate your relationships, fulfillment, and vitality. Therapy will not remove your feelings or creativity. It will help you understand and work with your emotions, rather than succumb to them.
(267) 422-4858 View (267) 422-4858
Photo of Chesy Tronchoni Bello, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chesy Tronchoni Bello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Chesy Tronchoni Bello, LPC, MT-BC, CYT. I’m a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Board-Certified Music Therapist, and yoga teacher. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, trauma, and identity development. My integrative approach to healing is rooted in intersectional feminism, humanistic tenets, and trauma-informed care, incorporating mindfulness-based techniques, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, and expressive arts and movement.
My name is Chesy Tronchoni Bello, LPC, MT-BC, CYT. I’m a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Board-Certified Music Therapist, and yoga teacher. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, trauma, and identity development. My integrative approach to healing is rooted in intersectional feminism, humanistic tenets, and trauma-informed care, incorporating mindfulness-based techniques, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, and expressive arts and movement.
(267) 412-3467 View (267) 412-3467
Photo of Marcie Wood - West Philly Therapy Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
West Philly Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143
West Philly Therapy Center is a group practice that specializes in working with relationship, sexuality and gender related issues. While each of our therapist has their own style and specialty, they are all collectively & actively working from an anti-racist, queer & trans affirming, social justice, and trauma-informed lens. We provide a warm, collaborative and compassionate space for clients to process, explore, grow, and heal. We strive to develop a therapeutic environment of mutual trust, respect and care, where the complexities of each client's experiences and identities are honored.
West Philly Therapy Center is a group practice that specializes in working with relationship, sexuality and gender related issues. While each of our therapist has their own style and specialty, they are all collectively & actively working from an anti-racist, queer & trans affirming, social justice, and trauma-informed lens. We provide a warm, collaborative and compassionate space for clients to process, explore, grow, and heal. We strive to develop a therapeutic environment of mutual trust, respect and care, where the complexities of each client's experiences and identities are honored.
(215) 201-4599 View (215) 201-4599
Photo of Molly Samalio, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Samalio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
When I was in grad school I was asked this question: why do you want to do therapy? My answer was immediate: "I want to alleviate suffering!" A more experienced clinician shared a perplexing truth with me: sometimes you can't, you can just sit with the person through it. Over the years I have been honored to hold space for my clients to share their stories of courage and pain. I started to see what she meant, and revised my motto: I want to alleviate suffering and when I can’t I want to create a soft place to land.
When I was in grad school I was asked this question: why do you want to do therapy? My answer was immediate: "I want to alleviate suffering!" A more experienced clinician shared a perplexing truth with me: sometimes you can't, you can just sit with the person through it. Over the years I have been honored to hold space for my clients to share their stories of courage and pain. I started to see what she meant, and revised my motto: I want to alleviate suffering and when I can’t I want to create a soft place to land.
(484) 207-5541 View (484) 207-5541
Photo of Ryan Keough, MS, LMFT, -AS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Keough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, -AS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I come from a wide variety of experience and training and will work with an equally wide range of presenting concerns. I will work with people experiencing general life stressors and major life transitions, and/or diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will work with you to find the best format of therapy to meet you where you are. I believe in a light, humorous, and warm atmosphere when it's called for, but will just as quickly walk with you through the more challenging times of life. You'll feel welcome with me, and we'll work to translate that into the rest of your life.
I come from a wide variety of experience and training and will work with an equally wide range of presenting concerns. I will work with people experiencing general life stressors and major life transitions, and/or diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will work with you to find the best format of therapy to meet you where you are. I believe in a light, humorous, and warm atmosphere when it's called for, but will just as quickly walk with you through the more challenging times of life. You'll feel welcome with me, and we'll work to translate that into the rest of your life.
(215) 709-3162 View (215) 709-3162
Photo of Elizabeth Ringler-Jayanthan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Ringler-Jayanthan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome to my page! I am an LCSW in Pennsylvania and am currently a Doctorate of Social Work candidate. My passion is in helping individuals to recover from traumatic events and have worked extensively with survivors of sexual trauma and other traumatic events.
Hello and welcome to my page! I am an LCSW in Pennsylvania and am currently a Doctorate of Social Work candidate. My passion is in helping individuals to recover from traumatic events and have worked extensively with survivors of sexual trauma and other traumatic events.
(484) 616-2503 View (484) 616-2503
Photo of Amy Moulton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Moulton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128
Not accepting new clients
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, and hurting? Does it seem like you don't know where to start in your healing process? Are you struggling with excessive worrying that impacts your ability to enjoy your life? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. Believe me when I say that I know this is hard. If you’re like many, you’ve probably been debating seeking help for months, if not years. I’m glad you’re here and that you have taken the courageous first step towards healing.
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, and hurting? Does it seem like you don't know where to start in your healing process? Are you struggling with excessive worrying that impacts your ability to enjoy your life? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. Believe me when I say that I know this is hard. If you’re like many, you’ve probably been debating seeking help for months, if not years. I’m glad you’re here and that you have taken the courageous first step towards healing.
(267) 627-4610 View (267) 627-4610
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See more therapy options for Philadelphia

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$149

Therapists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
72% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills
61% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
61% Highmark

How Therapists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

77% Female
20% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Philadelphia?

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.