Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

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Photo of Colton Sankey, MSW
Colton Sankey
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am a compassionate and caring person who has always felt a kinship with everyone I meet. I believe that we grow most when we learn from one another. I became a counselor and therapist because of my passion for learning with and from the people who I get to serve in that role. I believe that getting to know our true selves is a lifelong journey and can require guidance and some additional perspective along the way. I know that learning who we are is the best way to understand what we want and how to grow into the person that meets those goals. I would very much like to help you in this process.
I am a compassionate and caring person who has always felt a kinship with everyone I meet. I believe that we grow most when we learn from one another. I became a counselor and therapist because of my passion for learning with and from the people who I get to serve in that role. I believe that getting to know our true selves is a lifelong journey and can require guidance and some additional perspective along the way. I know that learning who we are is the best way to understand what we want and how to grow into the person that meets those goals. I would very much like to help you in this process.
(412) 899-1569 View (412) 899-1569
Photo of Bethany A. McLaughlin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany A. McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or OCD, stuck in patterns of perfectionism, or struggling with emotion regulation, rejection sensitivity, and executive functioning challenges related to ADHD? I offer support to individuals facing various life challenges, helping you navigate pressures, adjust to changes, and find balance. Many of my clients are anxious and seeking to understand their thoughts and emotions better. Whether you're a college student, young professional, parent, or someone striving for a more balanced and fulfilling life, I am here to help you build confidence and find inner strength.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or OCD, stuck in patterns of perfectionism, or struggling with emotion regulation, rejection sensitivity, and executive functioning challenges related to ADHD? I offer support to individuals facing various life challenges, helping you navigate pressures, adjust to changes, and find balance. Many of my clients are anxious and seeking to understand their thoughts and emotions better. Whether you're a college student, young professional, parent, or someone striving for a more balanced and fulfilling life, I am here to help you build confidence and find inner strength.
(412) 328-2630 View (412) 328-2630
Photo of Amy Raulerson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Raulerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Starting therapy can be tough. Research shows the number one variable that improves outcomes in therapy is the therapeutic alliance. At Perennial Growth Counseling, I believe the working relationship is the key to helping people feel better and begin to make changes in their lives. Maybe you are going through a major life transition (had a baby, lost a job, lost a spouse) and need some support. Or you've been struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety for far too long and want some new perspective and a place to reflect. Have you experienced some traumatic events in your life that are keeping you stuck? Therapy can help.
Starting therapy can be tough. Research shows the number one variable that improves outcomes in therapy is the therapeutic alliance. At Perennial Growth Counseling, I believe the working relationship is the key to helping people feel better and begin to make changes in their lives. Maybe you are going through a major life transition (had a baby, lost a job, lost a spouse) and need some support. Or you've been struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety for far too long and want some new perspective and a place to reflect. Have you experienced some traumatic events in your life that are keeping you stuck? Therapy can help.
(878) 205-2030 View (878) 205-2030
Photo of Sydney Senay, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sydney Senay
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Therapy is about the journey, not the destination. Together, we will explore identities that are impactful to you, inspect relationships and how they shape you, and discuss your challenges and how we can work through them. You know yourself best, and I will trust your judgement as we walk together through the therapeutic journey. You don’t have to know where to begin. “Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.”
Therapy is about the journey, not the destination. Together, we will explore identities that are impactful to you, inspect relationships and how they shape you, and discuss your challenges and how we can work through them. You know yourself best, and I will trust your judgement as we walk together through the therapeutic journey. You don’t have to know where to begin. “Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can.”
(412) 866-1237 x5241 View (412) 866-1237 x5241
Photo of Mark E. Dean, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark E. Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My focus is helping you to discover your own unique pathway through the hardships and challenges that you are currently facing. This path is almost impossible to find on your own when you feel lost, confused, overwhelmed, and in pain. At such times one naturally feels broken, defective, and defeated by troubles that you have tried your best to understand and overcome. In every struggle however there lies a hidden possibility for growth and development that can lead to a renewed sense of meaning and well being. My work is to listen carefully to you, to come to understand your unique life, and how what you are struggling with actually makes perfect sense. By understanding your life and your struggle we can find what is needed to navigate through to a renewed sense of life and meaning.
My focus is helping you to discover your own unique pathway through the hardships and challenges that you are currently facing. This path is almost impossible to find on your own when you feel lost, confused, overwhelmed, and in pain. At such times one naturally feels broken, defective, and defeated by troubles that you have tried your best to understand and overcome. In every struggle however there lies a hidden possibility for growth and development that can lead to a renewed sense of meaning and well being. My work is to listen carefully to you, to come to understand your unique life, and how what you are struggling with actually makes perfect sense. By understanding your life and your struggle we can find what is needed to navigate through to a renewed sense of life and meaning.
(610) 756-0983 View (610) 756-0983
Photo of Christina McClarren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina McClarren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families grow beyond current challenges. I specialize in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief, chronic and serious mental health issues, communication, and managing life stressors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families grow beyond current challenges. I specialize in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief, chronic and serious mental health issues, communication, and managing life stressors.
(412) 274-1644 View (412) 274-1644
Photo of Julz Metelsky, MA, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julz Metelsky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I'm an LGBTQIA+ therapist, and my theoretical alignments are focused on feminism. I'm passionate about gender fluidity and contributing to a strong future generation by challenging societal norms. I enjoy working with folks concerned with anxiety, childhood trauma/abuse, interpersonal violence (IPV) and sexual assault, intergenerational trauma, and self-esteem.
I'm an LGBTQIA+ therapist, and my theoretical alignments are focused on feminism. I'm passionate about gender fluidity and contributing to a strong future generation by challenging societal norms. I enjoy working with folks concerned with anxiety, childhood trauma/abuse, interpersonal violence (IPV) and sexual assault, intergenerational trauma, and self-esteem.
(412) 923-0964 x117 View (412) 923-0964 x117
Photo of Damien Gabis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damien Gabis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Damien has provided therapeutic interventions for people going through grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, and other barriers. He is an LGBTQ+ and trauma informed therapist. Damien is a veteran and has experience in treating military trauma.
Damien has provided therapeutic interventions for people going through grief and loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, and other barriers. He is an LGBTQ+ and trauma informed therapist. Damien is a veteran and has experience in treating military trauma.
(412) 435-1359 View (412) 435-1359
Photo of Kristen Watt - Kristen Watt at Pittsburgh Art Therapy Studio LLC, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Watt at Pittsburgh Art Therapy Studio LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Current Daytime Virtual Appointments Available- Hi, welcome! We're a gentle, modern therapy office for 16+ teens and adults. There is no clinician-patient hierarchy here, no monotone responses, or robotic feeling interactions. PATS is focused on leading by example; more-so we "practice what we preach" and are constantly looking for ways to better our clinical practices for you. We are transparent, authentic, and human. ​W strive to embody the essence that all truly are welcome here. Show up as you are- we're happy to meet you there.
Current Daytime Virtual Appointments Available- Hi, welcome! We're a gentle, modern therapy office for 16+ teens and adults. There is no clinician-patient hierarchy here, no monotone responses, or robotic feeling interactions. PATS is focused on leading by example; more-so we "practice what we preach" and are constantly looking for ways to better our clinical practices for you. We are transparent, authentic, and human. ​W strive to embody the essence that all truly are welcome here. Show up as you are- we're happy to meet you there.
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Photo of Eliza Fixler, LSW
Eliza Fixler
LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an LSW clinician with experience working with adults with a variety of mental health concerns. Common areas of focus in my sessions include symptoms of OCD, phobias, panic disorder and other anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. I am also passionate about working with clients experiencing relationship conflict, communication issues, and destabilizing life transitions. I am allied with the trans and nonbinary communities. I enjoy working with clients to explore social and medical transitions, and can write surgery referral letters for gender affirming surgeries.
I am an LSW clinician with experience working with adults with a variety of mental health concerns. Common areas of focus in my sessions include symptoms of OCD, phobias, panic disorder and other anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. I am also passionate about working with clients experiencing relationship conflict, communication issues, and destabilizing life transitions. I am allied with the trans and nonbinary communities. I enjoy working with clients to explore social and medical transitions, and can write surgery referral letters for gender affirming surgeries.
(412) 910-2361 View (412) 910-2361
Photo of Bonnie Lou Ricard, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie Lou Ricard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Bonnie Ricard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and certified by the National Board of Counseling. Her undergraduate work was completed at Kent State University and she received her Masters in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. She has more than two decades of experience in the counseling profession with a focus on relational issues, life transitions, emotional distress, grief, crises and trauma. She has also done significant work in the field of substance use and its far reaching implications on individuals and families.
Bonnie Ricard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and certified by the National Board of Counseling. Her undergraduate work was completed at Kent State University and she received her Masters in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. She has more than two decades of experience in the counseling profession with a focus on relational issues, life transitions, emotional distress, grief, crises and trauma. She has also done significant work in the field of substance use and its far reaching implications on individuals and families.
(412) 564-4138 View (412) 564-4138
Photo of Christine Kobik, MAAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Kobik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
(412) 960-8427 View (412) 960-8427
Photo of Brittany Hautz, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Hautz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
25 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
You are ready to step away from patterns of disconnect and dissociation in your life. You are done feeling triggered, distracted, or just lost. You need to openly address the impact of chronic and systemic trauma on your nervous system, beyond where traditional talk therapy has taken you. For a Queer, "AuDHD" person, this means finding a therapist who gets it, and who can hold an expansive space for fully reprocessing your story. You are looking for a somatic therapist who offers a gentle, yet powerful approach to healing. You need a specialist.
You are ready to step away from patterns of disconnect and dissociation in your life. You are done feeling triggered, distracted, or just lost. You need to openly address the impact of chronic and systemic trauma on your nervous system, beyond where traditional talk therapy has taken you. For a Queer, "AuDHD" person, this means finding a therapist who gets it, and who can hold an expansive space for fully reprocessing your story. You are looking for a somatic therapist who offers a gentle, yet powerful approach to healing. You need a specialist.
(878) 205-0553 View (878) 205-0553
Photo of Maria Sunseri, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maria Sunseri
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I'm open to various referrals but specialize in anxiety, depression, anger, emotional regulation, grief, couples and family counseling, Autism, ADHD, and trauma. While confident in treating these, I'm open to exploring other areas. Clients seek effective coping strategies for short and long-term relief. I delve into deeper roots over sessions for lasting change, prioritizing rapport, immediate coping tools, empathy, and genuine support initially.
I'm open to various referrals but specialize in anxiety, depression, anger, emotional regulation, grief, couples and family counseling, Autism, ADHD, and trauma. While confident in treating these, I'm open to exploring other areas. Clients seek effective coping strategies for short and long-term relief. I delve into deeper roots over sessions for lasting change, prioritizing rapport, immediate coping tools, empathy, and genuine support initially.
(412) 547-8960 View (412) 547-8960
Photo of Ann M. McKnight, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ann M. McKnight
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
That feeling when you cannot catch your breath and you are frozen … unable to move, to control the thoughts in your mind, or the tears streaming from your eyes. You have been hit with a gut punch, left wondering how to put the pieces back together and, for just one moment, not catch a break; rather, just catch your breath.
That feeling when you cannot catch your breath and you are frozen … unable to move, to control the thoughts in your mind, or the tears streaming from your eyes. You have been hit with a gut punch, left wondering how to put the pieces back together and, for just one moment, not catch a break; rather, just catch your breath.
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Photo of Ellen Freise-March, MSCP, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellen Freise-March
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Not accepting new clients
The focus of my counseling is to provide support and help for individuals of all ages to discover their strengths as they work through life's challenges. My clinical experience and training enable me to provide palliative and hospice support counseling to individuals who are currently aggressively treating their life-threatening illness or those individuals who have transitioned to hospice care.
The focus of my counseling is to provide support and help for individuals of all ages to discover their strengths as they work through life's challenges. My clinical experience and training enable me to provide palliative and hospice support counseling to individuals who are currently aggressively treating their life-threatening illness or those individuals who have transitioned to hospice care.
(412) 847-5007 View (412) 847-5007
Photo of Rebecca Williams, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Waitlist for new clients
In my approach, I try and lead my clients to come to their own answers, unearthing solutions and insight that they hold within themselves. My direct approach can often be funny, though empathetic; lighthearted, though deeply emotional. Typically, I find that clients benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Motivational Interviewing to solve current issues, and can utilize Psychodynamic approaches to delve into more deep rooted issues. In helping clients tell their own story through therapy, I've been able guide clients through finding their own solutions when motivated for change.
In my approach, I try and lead my clients to come to their own answers, unearthing solutions and insight that they hold within themselves. My direct approach can often be funny, though empathetic; lighthearted, though deeply emotional. Typically, I find that clients benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Motivational Interviewing to solve current issues, and can utilize Psychodynamic approaches to delve into more deep rooted issues. In helping clients tell their own story through therapy, I've been able guide clients through finding their own solutions when motivated for change.
(412) 785-2664 View (412) 785-2664
Photo of Erin Eckman, MSW , LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Eckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms that are exacerbated by external life circumstances? Do you want to understand your emotions and learn how to cope with them? My ideal client is seeking support and wants to begin the journey of improving their mental health. The client may have short-term or long-term goals but needs support to achieve them. The client might also want to improve their self-esteem through therapeutic work. Working with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered eclectic approach can help clients feel supported, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem.
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms that are exacerbated by external life circumstances? Do you want to understand your emotions and learn how to cope with them? My ideal client is seeking support and wants to begin the journey of improving their mental health. The client may have short-term or long-term goals but needs support to achieve them. The client might also want to improve their self-esteem through therapeutic work. Working with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered eclectic approach can help clients feel supported, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem.
(412) 991-1706 View (412) 991-1706
Photo of Jesse A. Virago, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jesse A. Virago
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Waitlist for new clients
The second half of life can be much better than the first. In fact, midlife is an ideal time for healing, growth, and change. So if your ship launched on choppy waters or rocky shoals and you're still navigating rough seas, a midlife course correction could help. What's required? Openness to new experience, willingness to engage, capacity to commit, and a therapist who knows what's possible and how to achieve it. A seasoned mariner can help you navigate your midlife passage with the art of healing, the science of change, and the "hard work miracle" of growth.
The second half of life can be much better than the first. In fact, midlife is an ideal time for healing, growth, and change. So if your ship launched on choppy waters or rocky shoals and you're still navigating rough seas, a midlife course correction could help. What's required? Openness to new experience, willingness to engage, capacity to commit, and a therapist who knows what's possible and how to achieve it. A seasoned mariner can help you navigate your midlife passage with the art of healing, the science of change, and the "hard work miracle" of growth.
(412) 385-3597 View (412) 385-3597
Photo of Jen Jasiekiewicz, LPC, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Jasiekiewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
I work with a great variety of individuals from all walks of life. I hope to help you build the confidence and skills you need to manage the stressors in your world. Together we can work on reinforcing your strengths, and I can help you to learn new skills to be able to manage your troubles. Areas of clinical focus include (but are not limited to) Trauma, Anxiety, Panic, Adjustment to College or Work, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ concerns, Codependency, and Phase of Life issues. I work primarily with adults and also have specific training in trauma treatment (CCTP certification).
I work with a great variety of individuals from all walks of life. I hope to help you build the confidence and skills you need to manage the stressors in your world. Together we can work on reinforcing your strengths, and I can help you to learn new skills to be able to manage your troubles. Areas of clinical focus include (but are not limited to) Trauma, Anxiety, Panic, Adjustment to College or Work, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ concerns, Codependency, and Phase of Life issues. I work primarily with adults and also have specific training in trauma treatment (CCTP certification).
(412) 308-5505 View (412) 308-5505
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

2,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
66% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Highmark
78% Aetna
66% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
19% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pittsburgh?

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.