Therapists in Austin, TX

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Photo of Ray Sibert, MMFT, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ray Sibert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMFT, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
I have been providing personal, marriage and family counseling for more than 30 year. This involves dealing with stress, depression and anxiety, couples seeking marriage and pre-marriage counseling, and people/families going through divorce and blended families struggles. -- **I am also a counseling supervisor and provide supervision to counselors who are not yet fully licensed or who are completing their student practicum. This allows my practice to offer counseling through Christian Pimentel, MA at very affordable sliding scale rates. Please contact me for more information about working with Christian.
I have been providing personal, marriage and family counseling for more than 30 year. This involves dealing with stress, depression and anxiety, couples seeking marriage and pre-marriage counseling, and people/families going through divorce and blended families struggles. -- **I am also a counseling supervisor and provide supervision to counselors who are not yet fully licensed or who are completing their student practicum. This allows my practice to offer counseling through Christian Pimentel, MA at very affordable sliding scale rates. Please contact me for more information about working with Christian.
(512) 337-4516 View (512) 337-4516
Photo of Erin Lockwood, LPC, CCHP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Lockwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCHP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78749
I am a therapist seeing individuals, adolescents, and families in the greater Austin area and remotely throughout the state of Texas. I specialize in depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders and have unique experience working with forensic populations and individuals with serious and persistent mental illness. I help people who have been impacted by mental health issues, substance use, and trauma. Trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCHP), I take a humanistic approach with a focus on building creativity, autonomy, self-compassion, and competence.
I am a therapist seeing individuals, adolescents, and families in the greater Austin area and remotely throughout the state of Texas. I specialize in depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders and have unique experience working with forensic populations and individuals with serious and persistent mental illness. I help people who have been impacted by mental health issues, substance use, and trauma. Trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCHP), I take a humanistic approach with a focus on building creativity, autonomy, self-compassion, and competence.
(737) 352-4208 View (737) 352-4208
Photo of Kelsi Reeves, LPC
Kelsi Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I consider it a privilege to collaborate with courageous individuals who embark on the challenging and sometimes messy journey of discovering what keeps them stuck and struggling. This process allows us to make meaningful changes, break patterns of dissatisfaction and disconnection, open up to life with enthusiasm and enjoy the sense of connection and meaningfulness we all deserve. Often, our struggles are rooted in how we learned to survive and connect with others early in life. Because of this, healing often happens within relationships. Good therapy can provide such healing.
I consider it a privilege to collaborate with courageous individuals who embark on the challenging and sometimes messy journey of discovering what keeps them stuck and struggling. This process allows us to make meaningful changes, break patterns of dissatisfaction and disconnection, open up to life with enthusiasm and enjoy the sense of connection and meaningfulness we all deserve. Often, our struggles are rooted in how we learned to survive and connect with others early in life. Because of this, healing often happens within relationships. Good therapy can provide such healing.
(737) 214-3571 View (737) 214-3571
Photo of Rachel Glaser, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Glaser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78756
If we allow them to, anxiety, stress, and uncomfortable feelings can run our lives. My passion lies in helping you to find freedom and movement from these uncomfortable feelings rather than stagnation and suffering. Together, we will explore how you respond to uncomfortable feelings and find healthier, more productive and more genuine ways of responding that fit with your values in all areas of your life.
If we allow them to, anxiety, stress, and uncomfortable feelings can run our lives. My passion lies in helping you to find freedom and movement from these uncomfortable feelings rather than stagnation and suffering. Together, we will explore how you respond to uncomfortable feelings and find healthier, more productive and more genuine ways of responding that fit with your values in all areas of your life.
(737) 777-8320 View (737) 777-8320
Photo of Tiffany Stanley, PhD, LPC-S, MA, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Stanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, MA, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Dr. Tiffany Stanley is an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, an American Board of Sexology Diplomat and she holds a doctorate in Clinical Sexology. She is Texas-Board-Approved Licensed Psychotherapist and Supervisor, Nationally and Internationally Certified and Registered Psychotherapist, an EMDR trained counselor, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) trained therapist. She is also a registered Heal Your Life Workshop Leader and a Certified Life Coach. She has been in private practice for more than 19 years, specializing in helping adult women, men and couples.
Dr. Tiffany Stanley is an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, an American Board of Sexology Diplomat and she holds a doctorate in Clinical Sexology. She is Texas-Board-Approved Licensed Psychotherapist and Supervisor, Nationally and Internationally Certified and Registered Psychotherapist, an EMDR trained counselor, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) trained therapist. She is also a registered Heal Your Life Workshop Leader and a Certified Life Coach. She has been in private practice for more than 19 years, specializing in helping adult women, men and couples.
(512) 270-6167 View (512) 270-6167
Photo of Kai Rockwell, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kai Rockwell
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
I'm an LMSW with a passion for social work, currently on the journey towards my doctorate. My expertise lies in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness therapeutic interventions, and somatic processing.
I'm an LMSW with a passion for social work, currently on the journey towards my doctorate. My expertise lies in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness therapeutic interventions, and somatic processing.
(737) 510-4214 View (737) 510-4214
Photo of Morgynn Haner, PhD, Psychologist
Morgynn Haner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Are you yet to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and can relate to? Has previous therapy “only scratched the surface” of the real reasons you are seeking help? You’re not alone. My clients often need a deep sense of connection in order to feel safe in their most vulnerable moments. Most of my clients are looking for a highly-trained psychologist who is not afraid to show her humanity nor bear witness to theirs. I aim to make you feel seen, understood, and safe as you work through difficult emotions and/or painful past experiences.
Are you yet to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and can relate to? Has previous therapy “only scratched the surface” of the real reasons you are seeking help? You’re not alone. My clients often need a deep sense of connection in order to feel safe in their most vulnerable moments. Most of my clients are looking for a highly-trained psychologist who is not afraid to show her humanity nor bear witness to theirs. I aim to make you feel seen, understood, and safe as you work through difficult emotions and/or painful past experiences.
(281) 801-6941 View (281) 801-6941
Photo of Caleigh Balsamo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caleigh Balsamo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with self-esteem issues? Do relationship challenges or grief leave you feeling lost and hopeless? I'm here to help you navigate these difficult emotions and find a path toward healing and fulfillment. Hi, I'm Caleigh Balsamo, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Austin, TX. I specialize in helping college students and adults who are dealing with anxiety & perfectionism, low self-esteem, relationship problems, and grief/loss.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with self-esteem issues? Do relationship challenges or grief leave you feeling lost and hopeless? I'm here to help you navigate these difficult emotions and find a path toward healing and fulfillment. Hi, I'm Caleigh Balsamo, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Austin, TX. I specialize in helping college students and adults who are dealing with anxiety & perfectionism, low self-esteem, relationship problems, and grief/loss.
(512) 872-4638 View (512) 872-4638
Photo of Nate Havlick, LCSW, MNLP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nate Havlick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MNLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
For most people, the last few years have been unusually intense. Scary and unpredictable. And yet many have responded with compassion, and a willingness to work together. This is us at our best. Today, you may be struggling. You may be looking for help with important decisions in your life. Perhaps there's someone you love but you have problems getting along. Or maybe you're just tired of feeling anxious, depressed, or angry.
For most people, the last few years have been unusually intense. Scary and unpredictable. And yet many have responded with compassion, and a willingness to work together. This is us at our best. Today, you may be struggling. You may be looking for help with important decisions in your life. Perhaps there's someone you love but you have problems getting along. Or maybe you're just tired of feeling anxious, depressed, or angry.
(512) 649-0363 View (512) 649-0363
Photo of Robert Glenn Azzarito, MA, DMin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Glenn Azzarito
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 73301  (Online Only)
I have been a licensed MFT since 1995 and have dealt with all types of personal issues and challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Our first task is to identify the need..what brings you to counseling and how can we together achieve your goals for your life. You are not defective because you need some support and help. I have also sought therapy at various times in my own life, and understand the challenges and fears of seeking support. I promise to listen carefully, respond respectfully, and journey with you until your goals are achieved. If I can help, I would feel honored to be invited into your life story.
I have been a licensed MFT since 1995 and have dealt with all types of personal issues and challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Our first task is to identify the need..what brings you to counseling and how can we together achieve your goals for your life. You are not defective because you need some support and help. I have also sought therapy at various times in my own life, and understand the challenges and fears of seeking support. I promise to listen carefully, respond respectfully, and journey with you until your goals are achieved. If I can help, I would feel honored to be invited into your life story.
(806) 203-5884 View (806) 203-5884
Photo of Julia Fazio, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Fazio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78751  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adult individuals who are seeking counseling to address issues such as anxiety, panic, self-doubt, depression, grief, life transitions, divorce, fertility issues, OCD, parenting challenges, stress management, health issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
I enjoy working with adult individuals who are seeking counseling to address issues such as anxiety, panic, self-doubt, depression, grief, life transitions, divorce, fertility issues, OCD, parenting challenges, stress management, health issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
(512) 900-7265 View (512) 900-7265
Photo of Terrie Hemphill-Rhodes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terrie Hemphill-Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Hello. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I look forward to meeting you. In our sessions, you are provided a safe, non-judgmental affirming and supportive space to process your emotions, thoughts, and personal experiences. Together we will navigate through difficult topics with ease to help make meaningful and positive changes.
Hello. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I look forward to meeting you. In our sessions, you are provided a safe, non-judgmental affirming and supportive space to process your emotions, thoughts, and personal experiences. Together we will navigate through difficult topics with ease to help make meaningful and positive changes.
(512) 641-5917 View (512) 641-5917
Photo of Teal Jackson-Mappus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teal Jackson-Mappus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
Many of my first sessions start as “So I saw this TikTok and I think I have...”, and that's ok! The courage it took you to start seeking a therapist is real. It's hard to reach out and trust someone when you’ve been burned so many times. The struggles you’re fighting inside yourself, can’t help but show up in your relationships. As you go through life you collect experiences that shape you, however some of those shapes just don’t fit like they used to. That’s when you know it’s time to change. Distancing yourself from the people you love most when you are hurting or falling into new situations that make you feel worse, isn’t working
Many of my first sessions start as “So I saw this TikTok and I think I have...”, and that's ok! The courage it took you to start seeking a therapist is real. It's hard to reach out and trust someone when you’ve been burned so many times. The struggles you’re fighting inside yourself, can’t help but show up in your relationships. As you go through life you collect experiences that shape you, however some of those shapes just don’t fit like they used to. That’s when you know it’s time to change. Distancing yourself from the people you love most when you are hurting or falling into new situations that make you feel worse, isn’t working
(512) 641-3739 View (512) 641-3739
Photo of Robyn Wendell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Wendell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78749
When life presents challenges, a trusted guide can help you through the maze. For over a decade, I have partnered with my clients to help them find solutions when they are faced with difficult situations and decisions. My focus in every counseling session is to provide a safe and respectful space, free of judgement, for my clients. We explore underlying issues in order to gain a new perspective and restore balance to their lives. It is through us working together as a team that clients gain a deeper understanding of their circumstances, process their emotions, and improve positive coping strategies.
When life presents challenges, a trusted guide can help you through the maze. For over a decade, I have partnered with my clients to help them find solutions when they are faced with difficult situations and decisions. My focus in every counseling session is to provide a safe and respectful space, free of judgement, for my clients. We explore underlying issues in order to gain a new perspective and restore balance to their lives. It is through us working together as a team that clients gain a deeper understanding of their circumstances, process their emotions, and improve positive coping strategies.
(512) 861-8485 View (512) 861-8485
Photo of Damaris (Bilingual) Rodriguez, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damaris (Bilingual) Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
Are you having trouble letting go of painful and unhelpful thinking patterns? Feeling a sense of ‘now what’? What about debilitating anxious feelings? Are you ready to explore/process how past trauma(s) may be impacting your life? Perhaps you are experiencing stress or difficult transitions. Whether you’re battling depression, feeling anxious, experiencing conflict, or dealing with symptoms from trauma, Damaris will provide a safe space to help support and guide you toward your personal goals.
Are you having trouble letting go of painful and unhelpful thinking patterns? Feeling a sense of ‘now what’? What about debilitating anxious feelings? Are you ready to explore/process how past trauma(s) may be impacting your life? Perhaps you are experiencing stress or difficult transitions. Whether you’re battling depression, feeling anxious, experiencing conflict, or dealing with symptoms from trauma, Damaris will provide a safe space to help support and guide you toward your personal goals.
(512) 559-1496 View (512) 559-1496
Photo of Daniel Fox Williamson, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniel Fox Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Hello and welcome! Finding a therapist is challenging and I commend you for getting here! If you feel at all curious, hopeful, or seen when reading this, I encourage you to schedule a free call. Being a human is hard! Meaning and contentment often seem elusive, especially in the world we live in today. Rather than telling you how to “fit in” to life, my role is to empower you to discover and pursue whatever you find fulfilling. If you’re the type of person who’s almost too self-aware but still struggles to make meaningful change or feel secure in relationships, I’ll probably be a good fit for you.
Hello and welcome! Finding a therapist is challenging and I commend you for getting here! If you feel at all curious, hopeful, or seen when reading this, I encourage you to schedule a free call. Being a human is hard! Meaning and contentment often seem elusive, especially in the world we live in today. Rather than telling you how to “fit in” to life, my role is to empower you to discover and pursue whatever you find fulfilling. If you’re the type of person who’s almost too self-aware but still struggles to make meaningful change or feel secure in relationships, I’ll probably be a good fit for you.
(512) 886-8361 View (512) 886-8361
Photo of Dr. Daniela Krotzer, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Daniela Krotzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can escape the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can escape the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
(737) 265-2975 View (737) 265-2975
Photo of Stacie Brooks, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stacie Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
Hey there! If you’re looking for a therapist, you’re in the right place. It can feel a bit daunting at first. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, gain clarity, and work through challenges at your own pace. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk to, I can help. So, let’s dive into this journey together!
Hey there! If you’re looking for a therapist, you’re in the right place. It can feel a bit daunting at first. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, gain clarity, and work through challenges at your own pace. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk to, I can help. So, let’s dive into this journey together!
(737) 234-8913 View (737) 234-8913
Photo of Kristina Sarkisova, MSSW, LMSW
Kristina Sarkisova
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78756  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive psychotherapist. I'm passionate about Neurobiology, Attachment, and the mind-body connection, and I have experience working with people who are going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity questions, relationship struggles, and more. I also find it deeply fulfilling to work with clients who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
Hello! I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive psychotherapist. I'm passionate about Neurobiology, Attachment, and the mind-body connection, and I have experience working with people who are going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity questions, relationship struggles, and more. I also find it deeply fulfilling to work with clients who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
(512) 982-6027 View (512) 982-6027
Photo of Nazanin Delshad, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nazanin Delshad
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
My passion is creating a culture of acceptance and comfort around therapy and taking care of our mental health. Maintaining our mental and emotional health is as important as maintaining our physical health. I believe that healing begins with the individual and I empower clients to use their internal resilience and strength to achieve the change they want. When working with clients, I use a variety of theories and techniques to better guide them along all phases of their therapeutic journey.
My passion is creating a culture of acceptance and comfort around therapy and taking care of our mental health. Maintaining our mental and emotional health is as important as maintaining our physical health. I believe that healing begins with the individual and I empower clients to use their internal resilience and strength to achieve the change they want. When working with clients, I use a variety of theories and techniques to better guide them along all phases of their therapeutic journey.
(512) 866-1185 View (512) 866-1185
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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
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
66% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Austin, TX see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% 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.