Therapists in Fort Worth, TX

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Photo of Erica Salinas, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Salinas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I strive to ensure that my clients feel heard, understood, validated, free of judgement and empowered to accomplish the goals they have for themselves in healthy, effective ways.
I strive to ensure that my clients feel heard, understood, validated, free of judgement and empowered to accomplish the goals they have for themselves in healthy, effective ways.
(817) 383-2920 View (817) 383-2920
Photo of Adriana E Speiker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adriana E Speiker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Not accepting new clients
I understand trauma and the dynamics that can come from it. The body and the mind has information for us and I like to help with accessing that information through talking and physical awareness. I can help with discovering new ways of connecting to others and yourself which can lead to a path of healing. I was deployed multiple times overseas with the military so I understand finding the normal in unusual situations.
I understand trauma and the dynamics that can come from it. The body and the mind has information for us and I like to help with accessing that information through talking and physical awareness. I can help with discovering new ways of connecting to others and yourself which can lead to a path of healing. I was deployed multiple times overseas with the military so I understand finding the normal in unusual situations.
(817) 385-9519 View (817) 385-9519
Photo of Chioma Moronu Lcsw, LCSW, RYT, TCYM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chioma Moronu Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, TCYM
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you have trouble finding your inner peace? Are you struggling with finding where you fit it? As a person from a biracial and multicultural background I have personal experience with some of the challenges faced by those growing in their identity. That feeling of not knowing where you fit or the struggle not feeling good enough. Learning the skills and tools needed to find your true self and build the confidence to show up completely. Assisting you in navigating and discovering who you are and growing through past experiences into your true authentic self.
Are you have trouble finding your inner peace? Are you struggling with finding where you fit it? As a person from a biracial and multicultural background I have personal experience with some of the challenges faced by those growing in their identity. That feeling of not knowing where you fit or the struggle not feeling good enough. Learning the skills and tools needed to find your true self and build the confidence to show up completely. Assisting you in navigating and discovering who you are and growing through past experiences into your true authentic self.
(682) 213-5874 View (682) 213-5874
Photo of Juliandra R Dear, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Juliandra R Dear
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients now! If you're struggling to manage life, feeling stressed out, overwhelmed, and anxious, you are not alone. I am here and can work alongside you to find some relief from the exhausting symptoms that burden you. I excel at teaching people the skills they need to manage stress and stop the overwhelming cycle of anxiety. Find some joy in your life again! I am a warm and compassionate therapist with 16 years of clinical experience. Reach out, I'd love to hear from you.
Accepting new clients now! If you're struggling to manage life, feeling stressed out, overwhelmed, and anxious, you are not alone. I am here and can work alongside you to find some relief from the exhausting symptoms that burden you. I excel at teaching people the skills they need to manage stress and stop the overwhelming cycle of anxiety. Find some joy in your life again! I am a warm and compassionate therapist with 16 years of clinical experience. Reach out, I'd love to hear from you.
(817) 631-1290 View (817) 631-1290
Photo of Christina Turner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76102
As a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma and healing through evidence-based methods, and with training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I am committed to helping individuals and couples navigate and overcome the impacts of traumatic experiences. My holistic approach is rooted in compassion and expertise, aiming to support clients in their journey towards recovery and emotional resilience. By creating a safe and nurturing environment, I will work collaboratively with you to address and process trauma, enabling personal growth and a renewed sense of well-being.
As a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma and healing through evidence-based methods, and with training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I am committed to helping individuals and couples navigate and overcome the impacts of traumatic experiences. My holistic approach is rooted in compassion and expertise, aiming to support clients in their journey towards recovery and emotional resilience. By creating a safe and nurturing environment, I will work collaboratively with you to address and process trauma, enabling personal growth and a renewed sense of well-being.
(817) 662-4784 View (817) 662-4784
Photo of Emily Cinque, MEd, LPC, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Cinque
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109
My joy is working with clients that are inspired to pursue change and find solutions to the problems life throws at them with the hope of the Gospel! I believe in the power of partnering with the client to create goals, and provide a safe and open space to talk through current dealings, or things of the past. My practice includes elements of Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in hopes to shift our thoughts, and actions towards Christ.
My joy is working with clients that are inspired to pursue change and find solutions to the problems life throws at them with the hope of the Gospel! I believe in the power of partnering with the client to create goals, and provide a safe and open space to talk through current dealings, or things of the past. My practice includes elements of Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in hopes to shift our thoughts, and actions towards Christ.
(817) 406-6585 View (817) 406-6585
Photo of Karen ‘Beth’ Warner, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen ‘Beth’ Warner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107
I offer you a space to be heard and understood without judgment. A place of safety, compassion, and support. You are valuable, and you have a story. We all experience life uniquely based on our genetics, biopsychosocial influences, and cultural views. Counseling is a personal and collaborative process. We will work together to explore, excavate, and identify growth limiting factors in your life. And when you are ready, I offer a fresh perspective backed by a toolbox of evidence-based techniques and methodologies to help you live your most satisfying life.
I offer you a space to be heard and understood without judgment. A place of safety, compassion, and support. You are valuable, and you have a story. We all experience life uniquely based on our genetics, biopsychosocial influences, and cultural views. Counseling is a personal and collaborative process. We will work together to explore, excavate, and identify growth limiting factors in your life. And when you are ready, I offer a fresh perspective backed by a toolbox of evidence-based techniques and methodologies to help you live your most satisfying life.
(682) 260-5331 View (682) 260-5331
Photo of Mayra L Chavez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mayra L Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Seeking therapy may be scary sometimes, and I understand that. That is why I really like to focus on building a safe and nurturing relationship that allows the exploration of emotions without judgment so we can work towards acceptance and change. I use a person-centered approach which encourages team work and empowers you to direct the content of the sessions. Together we’ll explore how your experiences may be affecting your decisions and feelings about yourself and other aspects of life.
Seeking therapy may be scary sometimes, and I understand that. That is why I really like to focus on building a safe and nurturing relationship that allows the exploration of emotions without judgment so we can work towards acceptance and change. I use a person-centered approach which encourages team work and empowers you to direct the content of the sessions. Together we’ll explore how your experiences may be affecting your decisions and feelings about yourself and other aspects of life.
(281) 524-3121 View (281) 524-3121
Photo of Laura Binagia, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Binagia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Deep Thinker Therapy! I’m a therapist in Texas passionate about working with deep thinkers—those of you who process life, emotions, and experiences on a profound level. I understand the unique challenges you face, such as overthinking, perfectionism, and the feeling of isolation when others don’t quite “get” you. My goal is to create a warm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Welcome to Deep Thinker Therapy! I’m a therapist in Texas passionate about working with deep thinkers—those of you who process life, emotions, and experiences on a profound level. I understand the unique challenges you face, such as overthinking, perfectionism, and the feeling of isolation when others don’t quite “get” you. My goal is to create a warm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(682) 223-4570 View (682) 223-4570
Photo of Azadeh Shirgir, LPC, LMHC, EMDR-tr, Licensed Professional Counselor
Azadeh Shirgir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, EMDR-tr
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello everyone, I'm Azadeh, also known as Azi. With a decade of experience as a psychotherapist, I've worked with clients of diverse ages and backgrounds. My focus is on assisting individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, guiding them to discover their inner strength for a happier self. Certified as a trauma and anxiety clinician (CCTP and CCATP), I draw inspiration from quotes like Mary Oliver's "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" and “Breathing in, I calm my body. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment, I know this is the only moment.” Thich Nhat Hahn.
Hello everyone, I'm Azadeh, also known as Azi. With a decade of experience as a psychotherapist, I've worked with clients of diverse ages and backgrounds. My focus is on assisting individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, guiding them to discover their inner strength for a happier self. Certified as a trauma and anxiety clinician (CCTP and CCATP), I draw inspiration from quotes like Mary Oliver's "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" and “Breathing in, I calm my body. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment, I know this is the only moment.” Thich Nhat Hahn.
(682) 327-1176 View (682) 327-1176
Photo of Halee Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Halee Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76164
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck in this time in your life? Do you feel alone in your relationship, marriage, or friendships? Or maybe you are tired of feeling like everyone has it together but you. I am a Marriage and Family therapist who aspires to empower clients through collaborative approaches and concepts to achieve each person’s goal in their particular transition in life i.e. school, work, friendships, relationships, family interactions. etc. Change can be a scary word, but whenever you feel more in charge, instead of the world, life can truly begin to feel like an adventure that you are excited to experience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck in this time in your life? Do you feel alone in your relationship, marriage, or friendships? Or maybe you are tired of feeling like everyone has it together but you. I am a Marriage and Family therapist who aspires to empower clients through collaborative approaches and concepts to achieve each person’s goal in their particular transition in life i.e. school, work, friendships, relationships, family interactions. etc. Change can be a scary word, but whenever you feel more in charge, instead of the world, life can truly begin to feel like an adventure that you are excited to experience.
(682) 936-1348 View (682) 936-1348
Photo of Kitzia Lopez - North City Counseling, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
North City Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! At North City Counseling, we are committed to providing accessible and high-quality support for individuals & families. We are pleased to offer immediate openings for individual & couples counseling services provided by dedicated PhD practicum students who are completing their advanced training under the close supervision of a licensed therapist. At North City Counseling, we specialize in providing affirming and inclusive therapy for couples in open relationships, LGBTQI+ individuals and couples, and women.
Welcome! At North City Counseling, we are committed to providing accessible and high-quality support for individuals & families. We are pleased to offer immediate openings for individual & couples counseling services provided by dedicated PhD practicum students who are completing their advanced training under the close supervision of a licensed therapist. At North City Counseling, we specialize in providing affirming and inclusive therapy for couples in open relationships, LGBTQI+ individuals and couples, and women.
(817) 406-6528 View (817) 406-6528
Photo of Amy Carter, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am an LPC-Supervisor with openings for LPC associates. My area of specialization is adolescents and young adults. I have primarily worked with at-risk and troubled teens who have been struggling with a variety of mental health issues. My approach to therapy is trauma-focused and I am trained in EMDR. I use DBT and CBT therapy models to help my clients achieve their goals by reducing negative thought patterns and behaviors while increasing emotional intelligence and control. We work as a team to find your best path forward in finding success.
Hello, I am an LPC-Supervisor with openings for LPC associates. My area of specialization is adolescents and young adults. I have primarily worked with at-risk and troubled teens who have been struggling with a variety of mental health issues. My approach to therapy is trauma-focused and I am trained in EMDR. I use DBT and CBT therapy models to help my clients achieve their goals by reducing negative thought patterns and behaviors while increasing emotional intelligence and control. We work as a team to find your best path forward in finding success.
(817) 242-6276 View (817) 242-6276
Photo of Sarah Gill, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Gill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76104
The majority of my career has been with individuals with complex trauma histories and/or in crisis, and these remain the issues I work with the most. However, my understanding of these challenges, and their potential aftermath, changed just over 6 years ago. At that time, I experienced my own trauma and crisis in a way that shook me to my core - trauma while delivering my daughter. Then, 4 years later, pregnancy loss. When it comes to trauma recovery, this is what I now know in a very personal way - your support system is everything. You can survive things you thought might kill you. And you can be happy again.
The majority of my career has been with individuals with complex trauma histories and/or in crisis, and these remain the issues I work with the most. However, my understanding of these challenges, and their potential aftermath, changed just over 6 years ago. At that time, I experienced my own trauma and crisis in a way that shook me to my core - trauma while delivering my daughter. Then, 4 years later, pregnancy loss. When it comes to trauma recovery, this is what I now know in a very personal way - your support system is everything. You can survive things you thought might kill you. And you can be happy again.
(817) 402-2542 View (817) 402-2542
Photo of Jamie E Skyta, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie E Skyta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76112
You feel constantly on edge, overwhelmed by racing thoughts, and misunderstood. It’s hard to stay present because your mind keeps drifting to "what ifs" about the future or rehashing the past. You want peace, but it’s exhausting to battle this unease. Maybe you’re unsure how you feel, but you know it’s not right. You might have an idea where this anxiety comes from—stressful relationships, trauma, a difficult childhood—or maybe it seems to come from nowhere. Either way, you're just getting by, but it doesn’t have to be this hard. Peace is possible, and you don’t have to face this alone. I am here to help.
You feel constantly on edge, overwhelmed by racing thoughts, and misunderstood. It’s hard to stay present because your mind keeps drifting to "what ifs" about the future or rehashing the past. You want peace, but it’s exhausting to battle this unease. Maybe you’re unsure how you feel, but you know it’s not right. You might have an idea where this anxiety comes from—stressful relationships, trauma, a difficult childhood—or maybe it seems to come from nowhere. Either way, you're just getting by, but it doesn’t have to be this hard. Peace is possible, and you don’t have to face this alone. I am here to help.
(682) 452-6499 View (682) 452-6499
Photo of Dr. Edna Chism Nicholas, LCSW-S, LCDC, CPC, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Edna Chism Nicholas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, CPC, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Congratulations!! You have reached the next step on your new journey in life! We know it is difficult to come to counseling and even harder to choose a counselor that works for you. We are in such difficult times and our ACCC family wants to work with you!! Working with ACCC means that we believe that every individual has the key to successful outcomes within themselves. Ultimately we believe that you are the expert in your life. Our motto is "Authentically Inspiring Real Hope to Real People". This motto is representative of what restoration of hope can mean in healing everyday relationships among everyday people.
Congratulations!! You have reached the next step on your new journey in life! We know it is difficult to come to counseling and even harder to choose a counselor that works for you. We are in such difficult times and our ACCC family wants to work with you!! Working with ACCC means that we believe that every individual has the key to successful outcomes within themselves. Ultimately we believe that you are the expert in your life. Our motto is "Authentically Inspiring Real Hope to Real People". This motto is representative of what restoration of hope can mean in healing everyday relationships among everyday people.
(817) 203-2991 View (817) 203-2991
Photo of LaShonda Thomas, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LaShonda Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with your identity? Do you feel that you can't be "the real you" around others? Do you feel judged by others constantly? I can help you become the person that you feel you are meant to be and learn to be confident walking in your truth. Are you having difficulty managing your teenager at home? Do you feel distant from your child and would like a closer, more meaning relationship? Please come see me as I can act as a bridge to mend this broken relationship.
Are you struggling with your identity? Do you feel that you can't be "the real you" around others? Do you feel judged by others constantly? I can help you become the person that you feel you are meant to be and learn to be confident walking in your truth. Are you having difficulty managing your teenager at home? Do you feel distant from your child and would like a closer, more meaning relationship? Please come see me as I can act as a bridge to mend this broken relationship.
(817) 934-6933 View (817) 934-6933
Photo of Zee Robinson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zee Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! With over 8 years of experience, my goal is to provide intentional and quality therapeutic services. I am licensed and trained to work with individuals of all ages over a variety of concerns. With an open, non-judgmental, and evidence based approach, I believe that we can work together to create an ideal environment for your healing and growth. Together, through thoughtful collaboration, we can move through hard things!
Welcome! With over 8 years of experience, my goal is to provide intentional and quality therapeutic services. I am licensed and trained to work with individuals of all ages over a variety of concerns. With an open, non-judgmental, and evidence based approach, I believe that we can work together to create an ideal environment for your healing and growth. Together, through thoughtful collaboration, we can move through hard things!
(817) 646-8347 View (817) 646-8347
Photo of Sharon Levy, LMSW
Sharon Levy
LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Congratulation, in spite of everything you have faced, endured, and suffered, you have survived 100 percent of the worst days of your life! You made it to this intersection in time at the perfect moment. Now it is time to begin a new chapter of the journey. I would be honored to join you as you continue on to healing, wholeness, and purpose. I believe my past experiences have equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to move you towards your desired destination. My goal is to bring a fresh perspective and viewpoint to the challenges you are facing, while honoring your life experiences.
Congratulation, in spite of everything you have faced, endured, and suffered, you have survived 100 percent of the worst days of your life! You made it to this intersection in time at the perfect moment. Now it is time to begin a new chapter of the journey. I would be honored to join you as you continue on to healing, wholeness, and purpose. I believe my past experiences have equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to move you towards your desired destination. My goal is to bring a fresh perspective and viewpoint to the challenges you are facing, while honoring your life experiences.
(817) 435-4309 View (817) 435-4309
Photo of Kim Garrett - Spark Therapy by Kim Garrett, MS, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Spark Therapy by Kim Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Online counseling for grief and maternal mental health. You may be feeling overwhelmed with grief and worried about burdening others with your emotions. Or you are a new parent, deep in the trenches, struggling to feel like yourself. Maybe pregnancy and postpartum or even trying to conceive were not what you expected, and you need space to process how you're feeling. I am here to walk alongside you through whatever life has thrown at you. Together in a non-judgmental space, with humor and compassion, we will unpack these difficult feelings. After our sessions, you will feel seen, heard, and valued.
Online counseling for grief and maternal mental health. You may be feeling overwhelmed with grief and worried about burdening others with your emotions. Or you are a new parent, deep in the trenches, struggling to feel like yourself. Maybe pregnancy and postpartum or even trying to conceive were not what you expected, and you need space to process how you're feeling. I am here to walk alongside you through whatever life has thrown at you. Together in a non-judgmental space, with humor and compassion, we will unpack these difficult feelings. After our sessions, you will feel seen, heard, and valued.
(682) 267-3384 View (682) 267-3384
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fort Worth, TX

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Fort Worth, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
75% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
67% Trauma and PTSD
65% Relationship Issues
64% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Fort Worth, TX see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fort Worth?

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.