Therapists in Austin, TX

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Photo of Taylor Cnudde, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Taylor Cnudde
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I welcome individuals and couples who are seeking to create change in their lives. I may be a good fit for you if anxiety or depression are causing daily distress, self-criticism and burnout are impacting work performance, or if relationships feel unmanageable and disconnected. I support clients to overcome painful past experiences and unhelpful patterns, in order to reconnect with themselves, loved ones, and career in more meaningful and successful ways. As an experiential therapist, we don't just talk about your struggles. We create real experiences together that help you process emotions more deeply and create lasting change.
I welcome individuals and couples who are seeking to create change in their lives. I may be a good fit for you if anxiety or depression are causing daily distress, self-criticism and burnout are impacting work performance, or if relationships feel unmanageable and disconnected. I support clients to overcome painful past experiences and unhelpful patterns, in order to reconnect with themselves, loved ones, and career in more meaningful and successful ways. As an experiential therapist, we don't just talk about your struggles. We create real experiences together that help you process emotions more deeply and create lasting change.
(512) 877-1952 View (512) 877-1952
Photo of Christi Neville, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Christi Neville
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Loss can take numerous forms, not only through death, but through loss of relationships, health, roles, jobs, and dreams. If you find yourself struggling with transition or grief from any loss, past or present, congratulations for having the courage to seek support. My career-long specialty has been devoted exclusively to grief and loss, and I consider it an honor to work with those navigating the unfamiliar terrain of grief.
Loss can take numerous forms, not only through death, but through loss of relationships, health, roles, jobs, and dreams. If you find yourself struggling with transition or grief from any loss, past or present, congratulations for having the courage to seek support. My career-long specialty has been devoted exclusively to grief and loss, and I consider it an honor to work with those navigating the unfamiliar terrain of grief.
(512) 270-6875 View (512) 270-6875
Photo of Dr. Zackery A Tedder, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Zackery A Tedder
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
You’re capable and high-functioning, but something’s off. You feel disconnected: from others, from purpose, maybe even from yourself. You’re not falling apart, but you’re not thriving either. I work with people who are navigating identity, pressure, and emotional barriers they’ve carried for years. If you’re ready for a direct, grounded approach that doesn’t waste your time, I’m here for it. I don’t believe in sugar-coating. My style is direct, intuitive, and rooted in reality. Therapy with me is about showing up honestly and doing the work that matters.
You’re capable and high-functioning, but something’s off. You feel disconnected: from others, from purpose, maybe even from yourself. You’re not falling apart, but you’re not thriving either. I work with people who are navigating identity, pressure, and emotional barriers they’ve carried for years. If you’re ready for a direct, grounded approach that doesn’t waste your time, I’m here for it. I don’t believe in sugar-coating. My style is direct, intuitive, and rooted in reality. Therapy with me is about showing up honestly and doing the work that matters.
(512) 548-8485 View (512) 548-8485
Photo of Karen Hupp, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAHS
Karen Hupp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAHS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you or a loved one feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed by daily demands? I support teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, work or school stress, parenting challenges, relationship concerns, and low self-confidence. I help clients develop healthier thought patterns, coping skills, and resilience. With 25 years as a business owner, and former school counselor, I bring firsthand experience with workplace/school stressors and work-life balance. Together, we can create practical tools to help you feel more confident, balanced, and fulfilled.
Are you or a loved one feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed by daily demands? I support teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, work or school stress, parenting challenges, relationship concerns, and low self-confidence. I help clients develop healthier thought patterns, coping skills, and resilience. With 25 years as a business owner, and former school counselor, I bring firsthand experience with workplace/school stressors and work-life balance. Together, we can create practical tools to help you feel more confident, balanced, and fulfilled.
(737) 299-8179 View (737) 299-8179
Photo of Mary C Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Mary C Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
Talking things through with a kind, supportive therapist can be helpful for anyone. Whether you're dealing with something happening right now, working through a past experience, or just feeling overwhelmed by a lot of things at once, we can figure it out together.
Talking things through with a kind, supportive therapist can be helpful for anyone. Whether you're dealing with something happening right now, working through a past experience, or just feeling overwhelmed by a lot of things at once, we can figure it out together.
(512) 675-3461 View (512) 675-3461
Photo of Liz Watts, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Liz Watts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
10 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Not accepting new clients
Imposter syndrome? Never good enough? Harsh self-critic? It can be difficult and emotionally taxing to struggle on your own. Do you need a safe place where you can be honest and free of judgement about what is bothering you? And if that involves a few swear words, then so be it! Fun bonus - I'm originally from England and have a British accent!
Imposter syndrome? Never good enough? Harsh self-critic? It can be difficult and emotionally taxing to struggle on your own. Do you need a safe place where you can be honest and free of judgement about what is bothering you? And if that involves a few swear words, then so be it! Fun bonus - I'm originally from England and have a British accent!
(512) 886-6064 View (512) 886-6064
Photo of Dr. Tricia Blewitt, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Dr. Tricia Blewitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking to improve your relationship and/or your sex life? Do you experience pain during sex? Have low desire? Trouble orgasming? I have a PhD in Sexology, becoming the most advanced in the sex therapy field to offer my clients the most up-to-date practices and information in regards to sex: sex/porn addiction, low libido, sexual abuse, sexual traumas, sexual dysfunctions, desire differences in partnerships, identity issues, kink and polyamory. I am sex positive and welcome all sexual orientations. I am a Certified Sex Therapist who uses a direct, compassionate approach to help you and your sex life.
Are you looking to improve your relationship and/or your sex life? Do you experience pain during sex? Have low desire? Trouble orgasming? I have a PhD in Sexology, becoming the most advanced in the sex therapy field to offer my clients the most up-to-date practices and information in regards to sex: sex/porn addiction, low libido, sexual abuse, sexual traumas, sexual dysfunctions, desire differences in partnerships, identity issues, kink and polyamory. I am sex positive and welcome all sexual orientations. I am a Certified Sex Therapist who uses a direct, compassionate approach to help you and your sex life.
(512) 605-1627 View (512) 605-1627
Photo of Andrea Goldstein, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
One of my most basic beliefs is in the human impulse to grow and heal. No matter how young or old, you have an inherent wisdom and countless times when you have persevered despite challenge. My job is to help you reconnect to your intuition, power and resourcefulness. Towards this end, I create a safe place for you to share your concerns, as well as your strengths and goals. I listen with compassion and without judgment. I see our work as collaborative and tailor my approach to meet your needs. Together we work as a team to shed new light on the challenges you are facing and create a vision for the future.
One of my most basic beliefs is in the human impulse to grow and heal. No matter how young or old, you have an inherent wisdom and countless times when you have persevered despite challenge. My job is to help you reconnect to your intuition, power and resourcefulness. Towards this end, I create a safe place for you to share your concerns, as well as your strengths and goals. I listen with compassion and without judgment. I see our work as collaborative and tailor my approach to meet your needs. Together we work as a team to shed new light on the challenges you are facing and create a vision for the future.
(737) 258-9129 View (737) 258-9129
Photo of Laurie D Gamble - Laurie Gamble, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Laurie Gamble, LCSW, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy practice. Austin Family Wellness is dedicated to giving individuals affordable, effective, and compassionate care. Whether it is with a serious mental health issue such as, depression, anxiety, or bipolar, or difficulty letting go of an addiction, Austin Family Wellness is here to help you achieve positive personal growth.
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy practice. Austin Family Wellness is dedicated to giving individuals affordable, effective, and compassionate care. Whether it is with a serious mental health issue such as, depression, anxiety, or bipolar, or difficulty letting go of an addiction, Austin Family Wellness is here to help you achieve positive personal growth.
(512) 649-4034 View (512) 649-4034
Photo of Emily Harrison - Blue Note Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Blue Note Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Austin, TX 78703
Blue Note Psychotherapy is Austin’s premier counseling center for individuals, couples, and families navigating cancer & medical diagnoses, grief & loss, and significant life transitions. Our approach to therapy is grounded in respect for your experience, deep expertise in the issues we support, and a belief that there is no single way to journey through this—it comes down to what is right and true and authentic for you. Our team of highly trained and specialized therapists is committed to meeting you right where you are today and supporting you as an active, engaged, and reliable companion on your path forward.
Blue Note Psychotherapy is Austin’s premier counseling center for individuals, couples, and families navigating cancer & medical diagnoses, grief & loss, and significant life transitions. Our approach to therapy is grounded in respect for your experience, deep expertise in the issues we support, and a belief that there is no single way to journey through this—it comes down to what is right and true and authentic for you. Our team of highly trained and specialized therapists is committed to meeting you right where you are today and supporting you as an active, engaged, and reliable companion on your path forward.
(737) 352-5221 View (737) 352-5221
Photo of Emily Ilseng, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Emily Ilseng
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your own head, or constantly questioning yourself, you’re not alone. Maybe your mind feels like it’s always “on,” you’re putting a lot of pressure on yourself to get things right, or you’re navigating a season of change—and it’s starting to feel exhausting to keep holding it all together. I am passionate about working with individuals who want to better understand themselves and create meaningful change. You might be feeling emotionally drained, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward—especially when your inner critic is loud or stress feels constant.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your own head, or constantly questioning yourself, you’re not alone. Maybe your mind feels like it’s always “on,” you’re putting a lot of pressure on yourself to get things right, or you’re navigating a season of change—and it’s starting to feel exhausting to keep holding it all together. I am passionate about working with individuals who want to better understand themselves and create meaningful change. You might be feeling emotionally drained, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward—especially when your inner critic is loud or stress feels constant.
(512) 269-0391 View (512) 269-0391
Photo of Meredith McNamee, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Meredith McNamee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
25 Endorsed
Online Only
Do intrusive thoughts & compulsive behaviors prevent you from fully engaging in your life? Are you tired of the endless cycle of emotional eating, calorie counting, and the exhausting pursuit of the 'perfect' body? Are you desperate for a sense of control and peace? You're not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck. I help people struggling with OCD, disordered eating, and anxiety find new ways to relate to their thoughts and emotions, and reconnect with what truly matters. In our work together, you’ll find a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore change—guided by your values, not your fears.
Do intrusive thoughts & compulsive behaviors prevent you from fully engaging in your life? Are you tired of the endless cycle of emotional eating, calorie counting, and the exhausting pursuit of the 'perfect' body? Are you desperate for a sense of control and peace? You're not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck. I help people struggling with OCD, disordered eating, and anxiety find new ways to relate to their thoughts and emotions, and reconnect with what truly matters. In our work together, you’ll find a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore change—guided by your values, not your fears.
(512) 859-7335 View (512) 859-7335
Photo of Pam B Tokaz, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MSN
Pam B Tokaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MSN
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Life is complex and at various transitional times life can become confusing. In counseling, the integration of our conflicting emotions is at the heart of who we are and how we struggle. It is equally important that you feel safe, valued and respected as we develop our therapeutic relationship. Together we will explore and validate your true authentic self; develop skills to confront life's challenges and embrace the joys; delve into your feelings and emotions with understanding and acceptance. Finding your voice, understanding your emotions and choosing behaviors that reflect yourself at best will weave our therapeutic relationship together.
Life is complex and at various transitional times life can become confusing. In counseling, the integration of our conflicting emotions is at the heart of who we are and how we struggle. It is equally important that you feel safe, valued and respected as we develop our therapeutic relationship. Together we will explore and validate your true authentic self; develop skills to confront life's challenges and embrace the joys; delve into your feelings and emotions with understanding and acceptance. Finding your voice, understanding your emotions and choosing behaviors that reflect yourself at best will weave our therapeutic relationship together.
(512) 906-9029 View (512) 906-9029
Photo of Deena Graham, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD, LMFT
Deena Graham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
"Why is this so hard? We love each other, but we can't stop fighting." I understand the hopelessness of living in a cycle of conflict. I became a couples therapist because I believe deeply in the importance of having a supportive and loving relationship--with yourself and with your partner. I will help you learn how to stop when anger, fear and hurt cause you to react in defensive and aggressive ways toward your partner. By slowing down and taking care of yourself first, you will gradually learn how to connect from a more vulnerable and honest place, creating a more satisfying and peaceful relationship together.
"Why is this so hard? We love each other, but we can't stop fighting." I understand the hopelessness of living in a cycle of conflict. I became a couples therapist because I believe deeply in the importance of having a supportive and loving relationship--with yourself and with your partner. I will help you learn how to stop when anger, fear and hurt cause you to react in defensive and aggressive ways toward your partner. By slowing down and taking care of yourself first, you will gradually learn how to connect from a more vulnerable and honest place, creating a more satisfying and peaceful relationship together.
(512) 942-2172 View (512) 942-2172
Photo of Lara Marie Mcfeely, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lara Marie Mcfeely
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
Welcome! I am happy to help you start to make positive life changes. My specialties include working with individual adults. We focus on building healthy relationships, setting boundaries, managing anxiety, OCD, exploring family dynamics and developing stronger attachments. I work with adult trauma, relational trauma, grief and challenging life seasons. With couples, the focus is on communication, understanding, realistic expectations, healing and emotional safety. We also address family of origin and other individual struggles, to help (re) create a meaningful connection with each other. My worldview is Christian.
Welcome! I am happy to help you start to make positive life changes. My specialties include working with individual adults. We focus on building healthy relationships, setting boundaries, managing anxiety, OCD, exploring family dynamics and developing stronger attachments. I work with adult trauma, relational trauma, grief and challenging life seasons. With couples, the focus is on communication, understanding, realistic expectations, healing and emotional safety. We also address family of origin and other individual struggles, to help (re) create a meaningful connection with each other. My worldview is Christian.
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Photo of Gurjit Kaur, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Gurjit Kaur
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Austin, TX 78757
I love working with couples who want to work on communication, creating better understanding, managing conflict, developing a more deeper relationship, and infidelity/affair recovery.
I love working with couples who want to work on communication, creating better understanding, managing conflict, developing a more deeper relationship, and infidelity/affair recovery.
(737) 345-2802 View (737) 345-2802
Photo of Maria Wesley Pinion, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CSAT, CCBRT-c
Maria Wesley Pinion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CSAT, CCBRT-c
Austin, TX 78746
Are you struggling with sexual behaviors you've promised yourself you'll stop? Is your spouse's porn use or sexual betrayal threatening your marriage? I offer Individual and Couples counseling for those whose relationship is struggling due to Porn or Sex Addiction as well as counseling for Partners of Betrayal Trauma. Many couples struggling with Sex Addiction or Infidelity want to heal their relationship and learn how to return to connection and intimacy. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a specialist in Couples Betrayal Recovery therapy, I will help you navigate the waters of recovering from infidelity.
Are you struggling with sexual behaviors you've promised yourself you'll stop? Is your spouse's porn use or sexual betrayal threatening your marriage? I offer Individual and Couples counseling for those whose relationship is struggling due to Porn or Sex Addiction as well as counseling for Partners of Betrayal Trauma. Many couples struggling with Sex Addiction or Infidelity want to heal their relationship and learn how to return to connection and intimacy. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a specialist in Couples Betrayal Recovery therapy, I will help you navigate the waters of recovering from infidelity.
(512) 229-9767 View (512) 229-9767
Photo of Bianca Diaz, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Bianca Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
We humans are all too familiar with dismissing or ignoring our own feelings for the sake of others. Between work roles, kids, family stressors, and romantic partners, it can be very difficult to find time to tune into our own individual wants and needs. If you've woken up and realized that you don't always call the shots in your own life and you'd like that to change, there's meaningful work we can do together!
We humans are all too familiar with dismissing or ignoring our own feelings for the sake of others. Between work roles, kids, family stressors, and romantic partners, it can be very difficult to find time to tune into our own individual wants and needs. If you've woken up and realized that you don't always call the shots in your own life and you'd like that to change, there's meaningful work we can do together!
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Photo of Dana Doerksen, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LPC
Dana Doerksen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LPC
Austin, TX 78735
Counseling... a safe space to share, feel, think, ponder problems, grieve, hope, brainstorm solutions, practice healthy habits, heal in mind-body-spirit, and flourish forward. Please EMAIL me (DrDanaDoerksen gmail.com) for an initial appointment. For over 20 years, I've had the honor of walking WITH people in healing through the counseling relationship. I am empathetic and engaged in supporting clients as they process ups & downs and pursue their goals. I am confident about having expertise but definitely don't know all the answers. I enjoy learning from clients and deeply value each client's wisdom: your perspective for growth.
Counseling... a safe space to share, feel, think, ponder problems, grieve, hope, brainstorm solutions, practice healthy habits, heal in mind-body-spirit, and flourish forward. Please EMAIL me (DrDanaDoerksen gmail.com) for an initial appointment. For over 20 years, I've had the honor of walking WITH people in healing through the counseling relationship. I am empathetic and engaged in supporting clients as they process ups & downs and pursue their goals. I am confident about having expertise but definitely don't know all the answers. I enjoy learning from clients and deeply value each client's wisdom: your perspective for growth.
(512) 686-2590 View (512) 686-2590
Photo of Hannah Loftus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Hannah Loftus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78727
You often find yourself wondering, “what will it take for me to feel normal?” It feels like you’ve tried everything, including therapy, but you can’t seem to “get it together” like everyone else and feel constantly on edge. Being abandoned by your partner or friends is constantly on your mind. You might know in your head that you don’t need to be anxious about the things that keep you up at night, but your body tells a different story with the knots in your stomach and tightness in your chest. All of this leads you to feel like it’s impossible to break out of old patterns. You’re ready to dive in deep and find long-lasting relief.
You often find yourself wondering, “what will it take for me to feel normal?” It feels like you’ve tried everything, including therapy, but you can’t seem to “get it together” like everyone else and feel constantly on edge. Being abandoned by your partner or friends is constantly on your mind. You might know in your head that you don’t need to be anxious about the things that keep you up at night, but your body tells a different story with the knots in your stomach and tightness in your chest. All of this leads you to feel like it’s impossible to break out of old patterns. You’re ready to dive in deep and find long-lasting relief.
(512) 960-1519 View (512) 960-1519

See more therapy options for Austin

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Austin, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
62% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Austin, TX see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Austin?

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.