Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

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Photo of Joanne Gonzales, MS, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joanne Gonzales
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hi, I'm Joanne! I work with folks who are experiencing uncertainty about their relationships or feel unmotivated at work or unsatisfied in their lifestyle. People that are navigating change, exploring their identity or purpose, and building sincere relationships. Those that are interested in breaking familial patterns and doing something different and meaningful with their lives. The world can be so soul-crushing sometimes, causing us to feel shame over their identities, desires, or behaviors. Understanding our identities or behaviors releases shame, builds self-confidence, and allows for true sustained change.
Hi, I'm Joanne! I work with folks who are experiencing uncertainty about their relationships or feel unmotivated at work or unsatisfied in their lifestyle. People that are navigating change, exploring their identity or purpose, and building sincere relationships. Those that are interested in breaking familial patterns and doing something different and meaningful with their lives. The world can be so soul-crushing sometimes, causing us to feel shame over their identities, desires, or behaviors. Understanding our identities or behaviors releases shame, builds self-confidence, and allows for true sustained change.
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Photo of Kathryn Hilton, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Hilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Sometimes we need support to navigate the ups and downs of life. If you feel overwhelmed or lost, I’m here to help you explore your unique concerns and find your way forward. I help clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, and borderline personality disorder.
Sometimes we need support to navigate the ups and downs of life. If you feel overwhelmed or lost, I’m here to help you explore your unique concerns and find your way forward. I help clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, and borderline personality disorder.
(215) 709-6284 View (215) 709-6284
Photo of Zara Khan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zara Khan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124  (Online Only)
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(267) 710-9185 View (267) 710-9185
Photo of Alanna Shehadeh, MS, NC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alanna Shehadeh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Welcome! As a therapist, I believe in the transformative power of self-awareness, empathy, and authentic connection. I believe wholeheartedly in holistic modalities, healing the mind, body, and soul, truly embracing the mind-body connection. I utilize many evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Person-Centered, Empowerment, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment, and Psychodynamic approaches. My approach and technique with clients is ultimately to assist in developing the best version of themselves.
Welcome! As a therapist, I believe in the transformative power of self-awareness, empathy, and authentic connection. I believe wholeheartedly in holistic modalities, healing the mind, body, and soul, truly embracing the mind-body connection. I utilize many evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Person-Centered, Empowerment, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment, and Psychodynamic approaches. My approach and technique with clients is ultimately to assist in developing the best version of themselves.
(267) 310-3892 View (267) 310-3892
Photo of Derek Parker, LPC, Counselor
Derek Parker
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Derek! It is so nice to meet you. Thank you for taking the time to explore what Grow Therapy can do for you.
Hello, I am Derek! It is so nice to meet you. Thank you for taking the time to explore what Grow Therapy can do for you.
(215) 791-8985 View (215) 791-8985
Photo of Melanie Rychok, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Rychok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
We all face difficulties in our lives and in our relationships. If you have painful memories of traumatic events, there is help and there is hope. Whatever may be getting in your way we can find a path through it. Together we can engage in the process of healing from past hurt, trauma, and pain to a sense of peace, wholeness, and wellbeing.
We all face difficulties in our lives and in our relationships. If you have painful memories of traumatic events, there is help and there is hope. Whatever may be getting in your way we can find a path through it. Together we can engage in the process of healing from past hurt, trauma, and pain to a sense of peace, wholeness, and wellbeing.
(267) 603-3101 View (267) 603-3101
Photo of Araya Baker, MPhilEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Araya Baker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
Do you truly believe you’re enough? I help clients affirm their values, needs, identities and self-worth. Many clients seek to address: fear of intimacy or abandonment, indecision or regret, a lack of creativity/motivation, people-pleasing and boundary-setting, perfectionism and imposter syndrome, self-comparison, and more. Blocking their path forward to self-acceptance/assurance is often insecurity or shame rooted in social stigmas, internalized oppression, or family trauma. We often discuss the emotional aspects of their concerns (e.g., self-talk about who they “should” be), then try out new coping skills and set well-paced goals.
Do you truly believe you’re enough? I help clients affirm their values, needs, identities and self-worth. Many clients seek to address: fear of intimacy or abandonment, indecision or regret, a lack of creativity/motivation, people-pleasing and boundary-setting, perfectionism and imposter syndrome, self-comparison, and more. Blocking their path forward to self-acceptance/assurance is often insecurity or shame rooted in social stigmas, internalized oppression, or family trauma. We often discuss the emotional aspects of their concerns (e.g., self-talk about who they “should” be), then try out new coping skills and set well-paced goals.
(267) 651-8368 View (267) 651-8368
Photo of Jeanine Marie Stewart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanine Marie Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I work with issues of identity, addiction, trauma, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety disorders such as panic disorder and OCD. Behind all of these struggles, there is a story. I am interested in understanding not only the difficulties you feel inside but also the adversity you face outside, be it racial or gender related discrimination, maltreatment/abuse, betrayal, or experiencing isolation and misunderstanding. I also enjoy working with college and graduate students navigating adulthood and life transitions including break-ups and career changes.
I work with issues of identity, addiction, trauma, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety disorders such as panic disorder and OCD. Behind all of these struggles, there is a story. I am interested in understanding not only the difficulties you feel inside but also the adversity you face outside, be it racial or gender related discrimination, maltreatment/abuse, betrayal, or experiencing isolation and misunderstanding. I also enjoy working with college and graduate students navigating adulthood and life transitions including break-ups and career changes.
(215) 987-4299 View (215) 987-4299
Photo of William Hasek, PhD, Psychologist
William Hasek
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I am a licensed, board-certified clinical psychologist who is here to help you overcome the challenges that are holding you back in your personal and professional life. My clients often come to therapy because they are feeling burnt out, find it hard to connect with others, and feel little sense of purpose or drive in their personal and professional lives. I know just how challenging it can be to feel unclear on one's values and direction. Through a tailored approach, I work with clients to help them explore their values, identify their strengths, and create a roadmap towards a fulfilling life.
I am a licensed, board-certified clinical psychologist who is here to help you overcome the challenges that are holding you back in your personal and professional life. My clients often come to therapy because they are feeling burnt out, find it hard to connect with others, and feel little sense of purpose or drive in their personal and professional lives. I know just how challenging it can be to feel unclear on one's values and direction. Through a tailored approach, I work with clients to help them explore their values, identify their strengths, and create a roadmap towards a fulfilling life.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Megan Furman, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Furman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19127  (Online Only)
Pregnant, postpartum, or parent of littles? Navigating the challenges of parenthood is not always made easier by the joys. Maybe you’re here as a mom struggling with all of the adjustments postpartum, you’re a dad feeling more irritable than you’d like, you’re crying or worrying a lot, having difficulty bonding with your baby, missing your independence, finding it hard to make time for your own needs, experienced a loss or scary birth, or you don't feel like yourself as an expectant parent, a new parent, or an experienced parent. We tend to have many expectations about parenthood and need help adjusting when things don’t go to plan.
Pregnant, postpartum, or parent of littles? Navigating the challenges of parenthood is not always made easier by the joys. Maybe you’re here as a mom struggling with all of the adjustments postpartum, you’re a dad feeling more irritable than you’d like, you’re crying or worrying a lot, having difficulty bonding with your baby, missing your independence, finding it hard to make time for your own needs, experienced a loss or scary birth, or you don't feel like yourself as an expectant parent, a new parent, or an experienced parent. We tend to have many expectations about parenthood and need help adjusting when things don’t go to plan.
(610) 813-6206 View (610) 813-6206
Photo of Jacqueline T. Marquez, MFT, NCC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline T. Marquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals challenged by the consequences of trauma. Sometimes it can be difficult to even understand how those moments are effecting you now. My focus is to first work on your current symtpoms, the anxiety and depression and other challenges that make it hard to function, and then work towards releasing the hold those past experiences have over your life. Together, we will create a safe and supportive environment to help you work through your toughest challenges to make the changes you see for yourself. I welcome diversity of all kinds.
I work with individuals challenged by the consequences of trauma. Sometimes it can be difficult to even understand how those moments are effecting you now. My focus is to first work on your current symtpoms, the anxiety and depression and other challenges that make it hard to function, and then work towards releasing the hold those past experiences have over your life. Together, we will create a safe and supportive environment to help you work through your toughest challenges to make the changes you see for yourself. I welcome diversity of all kinds.
(302) 375-5746 View (302) 375-5746
Photo of Kevin Caridad - Cognitive Behavior Institute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19120  (Online Only)
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(215) 607-7320 View (215) 607-7320
Photo of Ashley Nicole Tomlinson, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Nicole Tomlinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I am a patient and empathic therapist who is passionate about connecting with others and supporting them on their paths toward growth. I strongly believe that each person holds within them the strength to overcome life's challenges and may benefit from reflection, guidance and skills gained working with a therapist to get there.I am an integrative therapist who draws from relational psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based techniques as fits the needs of individual clients.​I work with adult clients, and also have the experience and therapeutic expertise to work with child and adolescent clients.
I am a patient and empathic therapist who is passionate about connecting with others and supporting them on their paths toward growth. I strongly believe that each person holds within them the strength to overcome life's challenges and may benefit from reflection, guidance and skills gained working with a therapist to get there.I am an integrative therapist who draws from relational psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based techniques as fits the needs of individual clients.​I work with adult clients, and also have the experience and therapeutic expertise to work with child and adolescent clients.
(215) 709-9475 View (215) 709-9475
Photo of Constance Brady - nameSTAND Counseling, LLC, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
nameSTAND Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
What is my purpose? How do I stay strong? How to heal? How to be resilient? How to make a comeback? These were among Google’s most frequently searched questions in 2021. That same year the world searched for affirmations more than ever with phrases like “I am worthy, I am loved”. I cite Google’s metric to validate that you are NOT alone. Millions of us are on a quest for self-actualization, clarity around our roles, healing in our relationships, and empowerment in our decisions. With a lot of experience, education, compassion, and curiosity, I am able to provide superior care individualized to your treatment needs.
What is my purpose? How do I stay strong? How to heal? How to be resilient? How to make a comeback? These were among Google’s most frequently searched questions in 2021. That same year the world searched for affirmations more than ever with phrases like “I am worthy, I am loved”. I cite Google’s metric to validate that you are NOT alone. Millions of us are on a quest for self-actualization, clarity around our roles, healing in our relationships, and empowerment in our decisions. With a lot of experience, education, compassion, and curiosity, I am able to provide superior care individualized to your treatment needs.
(484) 989-8779 View (484) 989-8779
Photo of Rachel Sims, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am Rachel Sims, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with experience working alongside people to better manage mental health struggles, change unhealthy behaviors, improve relationships, and live present and connected lives. I have experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I completed my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Addictions Counseling and my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University.
I am Rachel Sims, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with experience working alongside people to better manage mental health struggles, change unhealthy behaviors, improve relationships, and live present and connected lives. I have experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I completed my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Addictions Counseling and my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University.
(267) 719-2365 View (267) 719-2365
Photo of Maxwell J Sloan, MSEd, MPhilEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maxwell J Sloan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MPhilEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual therapy services online. I am interested in working with individuals who are motivated, trusting, and open to the prospect of therapy. Therapy at its best can be a form of education. My ideal clients are individuals who may feel stuck, anxious, or depressed, who are interested in delving deeper into what is behind these states of being.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual therapy services online. I am interested in working with individuals who are motivated, trusting, and open to the prospect of therapy. Therapy at its best can be a form of education. My ideal clients are individuals who may feel stuck, anxious, or depressed, who are interested in delving deeper into what is behind these states of being.
(267) 762-2207 View (267) 762-2207
Photo of Jennifer Houk, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Houk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
The truth will set you free"... I became a therapist because I believe that through relationship, listening, and talking, a tremendous amount of healing can take place in a person's life. I believe in people and the potential for change and growth in their lives. I see therapy as a partnership in facilitating that change. I help people to free themselves from various things that hold them down, guilt, anger, shame, addictions, anxiety... I attempt to help people establish a more solid foundation of self worth, balance, love and flexibility to be able to negotiate the world, their relationships and themselves more successfully.
The truth will set you free"... I became a therapist because I believe that through relationship, listening, and talking, a tremendous amount of healing can take place in a person's life. I believe in people and the potential for change and growth in their lives. I see therapy as a partnership in facilitating that change. I help people to free themselves from various things that hold them down, guilt, anger, shame, addictions, anxiety... I attempt to help people establish a more solid foundation of self worth, balance, love and flexibility to be able to negotiate the world, their relationships and themselves more successfully.
(215) 688-5781 View (215) 688-5781
Photo of Julia Chung - Everyday Well-Being LLC: Julia Chung, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Everyday Well-Being LLC: Julia Chung, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe therapy is to be a safe, open, nonjudgmental space to explore stressors and goals on an individual and systemic level. A space for you to be seen, heard, and understood with kindness, cultural sensitivity, curiosity, and compassion. To get you to a place where you’re able to grow and thrive, not held back by certain pressures. I strive to create that safe space in therapy, to address difficult topics while making sure to highlight moments of joy and accomplishment as well. In finding balance, to find what works well for you, in healthy and adaptive ways, can help with being better equipped to face challenges in life
I believe therapy is to be a safe, open, nonjudgmental space to explore stressors and goals on an individual and systemic level. A space for you to be seen, heard, and understood with kindness, cultural sensitivity, curiosity, and compassion. To get you to a place where you’re able to grow and thrive, not held back by certain pressures. I strive to create that safe space in therapy, to address difficult topics while making sure to highlight moments of joy and accomplishment as well. In finding balance, to find what works well for you, in healthy and adaptive ways, can help with being better equipped to face challenges in life
(267) 647-1008 View (267) 647-1008
Photo of Rebecca (Rowan) Levy, MA, NCC, PC01569, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca (Rowan) Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, PC01569
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19110  (Online Only)
You want something different, but it’s hard to motivate and place what that really is. You are sensitive, creative, queer, thoughtful, and full of so many thoughts. You likely have a habit of overextending yourself in the hopes of finding where you feel you belong. You see patterns in your relationships that you want to examine and change, and some part of you knows that you deserve a more satisfying life. Therapy is a non-judgmental space in which you can overcome familiar patterns by being witnessed and heard, and acquire tools to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
You want something different, but it’s hard to motivate and place what that really is. You are sensitive, creative, queer, thoughtful, and full of so many thoughts. You likely have a habit of overextending yourself in the hopes of finding where you feel you belong. You see patterns in your relationships that you want to examine and change, and some part of you knows that you deserve a more satisfying life. Therapy is a non-judgmental space in which you can overcome familiar patterns by being witnessed and heard, and acquire tools to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
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Photo of Lucy R. Goodman, PsyD, Psychologist
Lucy R. Goodman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Welcome! Starting psychotherapy can be overwhelming and by visiting my page, you are taking strides to improve yourself and your relationships. My goal is to provide an opportunity for you to reflect and ultimately create change.
Welcome! Starting psychotherapy can be overwhelming and by visiting my page, you are taking strides to improve yourself and your relationships. My goal is to provide an opportunity for you to reflect and ultimately create change.
(484) 699-9129 View (484) 699-9129
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$148

Therapists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
72% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
68% Trauma and PTSD
65% Coping Skills
61% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients

52% Online Only
48% 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.