Therapists in Houston, TX

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Photo of Brittany Stark, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Stark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098  (Online Only)
My expertise is related to working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss, as well as symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood, behavioral issues, and career challenges. My therapeutic style is kind, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to build a good therapeutic relationship with all my clients. I will treat all my clients with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I like to use Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness.
My expertise is related to working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss, as well as symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood, behavioral issues, and career challenges. My therapeutic style is kind, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to build a good therapeutic relationship with all my clients. I will treat all my clients with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I like to use Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness.
(469) 564-4984 View (469) 564-4984
Photo of Josephine Barclay, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Josephine Barclay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
Hello, Jo here! My name is Josephine Barclay, Australian born and raised, so I do have an accent. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Licensed Clinical Dependency Counselor, working in Texas via telehealth. I work with older teens, adults, and couples, specializing in life changes, anxiety, stress, depression, grief, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, LGBTQIA+, and substance and alcohol use. My approach to each client is eclectic and tends to focus on the needs of each client. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to therapy, I meet every client with a person-centered approach.
Hello, Jo here! My name is Josephine Barclay, Australian born and raised, so I do have an accent. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Licensed Clinical Dependency Counselor, working in Texas via telehealth. I work with older teens, adults, and couples, specializing in life changes, anxiety, stress, depression, grief, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, LGBTQIA+, and substance and alcohol use. My approach to each client is eclectic and tends to focus on the needs of each client. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to therapy, I meet every client with a person-centered approach.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Rodney Beck, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rodney Beck
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
I am a professional counselor who offers an unmatched commitment to my clients leading them to resolve their concerns and make meaningful decisions. Do you ever feel weighed down by feelings of fear and anxiety? Are you frustrated in trying to find or sustain healthy relationships despite all the time and effort you are put into them? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root cause of your difficulties and build meaningful social connections. After receiving my LPC license in 1998, I worked for several years as a therapist in private practice.
I am a professional counselor who offers an unmatched commitment to my clients leading them to resolve their concerns and make meaningful decisions. Do you ever feel weighed down by feelings of fear and anxiety? Are you frustrated in trying to find or sustain healthy relationships despite all the time and effort you are put into them? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root cause of your difficulties and build meaningful social connections. After receiving my LPC license in 1998, I worked for several years as a therapist in private practice.
(346) 512-2474 View (346) 512-2474
Photo of Rhonda Kay Velders - Illuminated Pathways Family Therapy, LLC, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Illuminated Pathways Family Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
I am here to help. My job as a counselor is to provide a safe environment - free of distraction and free of judgment - where you can work these things out with someone you can trust. I am there to help you discover the tools you need to work through tough situations, and to help you to become confident in who you are and how you can serve others! Illuminated Pathways is super excited to announce we have a new member of our therapy team. His name is Dwight and he loves to be petted and be hugged.
I am here to help. My job as a counselor is to provide a safe environment - free of distraction and free of judgment - where you can work these things out with someone you can trust. I am there to help you discover the tools you need to work through tough situations, and to help you to become confident in who you are and how you can serve others! Illuminated Pathways is super excited to announce we have a new member of our therapy team. His name is Dwight and he loves to be petted and be hugged.
(972) 843-7580 View (972) 843-7580
Photo of Torian Grant, LPC-A
Torian Grant
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079  (Online Only)
Life is a complicated game. I will help you implement strategies that you will be able to draw on long after our time together is done. I will approach our work together not by telling you what to do, but keeping you at the center of your story while I ride shotgun on your healing journey all while helping you reframe any negativity and stay focused on available solutions. You are not your worst thoughts and feelings, and they don’t need to hold you back. These things can be used as stepping stones to become a greater, more solid version of self. Even if you’ve been through this dark place before, we can get you through it again.
Life is a complicated game. I will help you implement strategies that you will be able to draw on long after our time together is done. I will approach our work together not by telling you what to do, but keeping you at the center of your story while I ride shotgun on your healing journey all while helping you reframe any negativity and stay focused on available solutions. You are not your worst thoughts and feelings, and they don’t need to hold you back. These things can be used as stepping stones to become a greater, more solid version of self. Even if you’ve been through this dark place before, we can get you through it again.
(832) 402-6569 View (832) 402-6569
Photo of Nneka Nnadozie - 360 Therapy & Psychological Services, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
360 Therapy & Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027
We provide psychological evaluations and psychotherapy to serve clients who are ready to embark upon the journey of healing by assessing and processing unresolved issues and exploring unsettled emotions and behavior. Our goal is to help clients gain insight into symptoms that have affected their daily lives and relationships by supporting clients’ exploration into what underlies their issues. The question is not “What’s wrong with you” but rather “What happened to you, and how can you become a better version of yourself?"
We provide psychological evaluations and psychotherapy to serve clients who are ready to embark upon the journey of healing by assessing and processing unresolved issues and exploring unsettled emotions and behavior. Our goal is to help clients gain insight into symptoms that have affected their daily lives and relationships by supporting clients’ exploration into what underlies their issues. The question is not “What’s wrong with you” but rather “What happened to you, and how can you become a better version of yourself?"
(832) 241-0440 View (832) 241-0440
Photo of Patricia E. Homesley, LMSW, CTP, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia E. Homesley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP, CDWF
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77057
Within everyone's story, there are spaces where we need someone to walk alongside us and find a path towards healing, organization of self, and navigating relationships, diagnoses, or difficult times. If you are looking for therapy and here, on this page, you have already begun the journey. It is possible to find healing, solutions, and organization.
Within everyone's story, there are spaces where we need someone to walk alongside us and find a path towards healing, organization of self, and navigating relationships, diagnoses, or difficult times. If you are looking for therapy and here, on this page, you have already begun the journey. It is possible to find healing, solutions, and organization.
(832) 669-6386 View (832) 669-6386
Photo of Zakiya F Bircher, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zakiya F Bircher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77069
Are you ready to take control of your emotions and mental wellbeing? I am a licensed therapist focusing on depression, anxiety, and trauma. When we experience different challenging things in life, it may seem difficult to navigate. If we are not equipped with the proper tools, it can profoundly influence our peace of mind. Sometimes it may feel impractical to handle our over-thinking and stressful circumstances.
Are you ready to take control of your emotions and mental wellbeing? I am a licensed therapist focusing on depression, anxiety, and trauma. When we experience different challenging things in life, it may seem difficult to navigate. If we are not equipped with the proper tools, it can profoundly influence our peace of mind. Sometimes it may feel impractical to handle our over-thinking and stressful circumstances.
(346) 521-5496 View (346) 521-5496
Photo of Ray Anthony DeBlanc, BA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ray Anthony DeBlanc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77075
Hello, my name is Ray DeBlanc. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with over 8 years experience working in the Mental Health field. I own The Shrink Gym and MindNMatter Therapy Services. I have experience working with individuals who are battling depression & anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, bi-polar, schizophrenia, & thought distortions.
Hello, my name is Ray DeBlanc. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with over 8 years experience working in the Mental Health field. I own The Shrink Gym and MindNMatter Therapy Services. I have experience working with individuals who are battling depression & anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, bi-polar, schizophrenia, & thought distortions.
(281) 204-8835 View (281) 204-8835
Photo of Francisco Fuentes Ayala, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Francisco Fuentes Ayala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77092  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm here to support you wherever you are in your journey. My approach is rooted in trauma-informed care, and I've dedicated my clinical career to serving the LGBTQ+ community, Latin American immigrants, and individuals living with HIV. With empathy, understanding, and a commitment to inclusivity, I create a safe space for you to explore your challenges and work towards healing and growth. I'm here to truly see you and understand you, taking the time to know the real you.
Welcome! I'm here to support you wherever you are in your journey. My approach is rooted in trauma-informed care, and I've dedicated my clinical career to serving the LGBTQ+ community, Latin American immigrants, and individuals living with HIV. With empathy, understanding, and a commitment to inclusivity, I create a safe space for you to explore your challenges and work towards healing and growth. I'm here to truly see you and understand you, taking the time to know the real you.
(346) 205-0887 View (346) 205-0887
Photo of Rhonda Septelka, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Septelka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77066
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and currently pursuing a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. I hold a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health with a specialization in Play Therapy from Sam Houston State University. I specialize in trauma treatment with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), child centered play therapy (CCPT), sand tray therapy, and a variety of evidenced based approaches.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and currently pursuing a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. I hold a Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health with a specialization in Play Therapy from Sam Houston State University. I specialize in trauma treatment with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), child centered play therapy (CCPT), sand tray therapy, and a variety of evidenced based approaches.
(281) 612-5522 View (281) 612-5522
Photo of Madison Sandifer Taylor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Sandifer Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77077
Do you often have persistent, anxious thoughts or deep worries you cannot move past? Have you experienced a situation that was unexpected, ongoing, and/or highly stressful? Have you experienced the loss of someone you love? If you can answer "yes" to any of these questions, there is hope! Learning healthy ways to process and cope is not easy and often does not come naturally, that's where I can help. If you are wanting to take control over your life and deal with life's stressors and difficulties in healthy ways, I can offer you a supportive, positive environment that will allow you to do so.
Do you often have persistent, anxious thoughts or deep worries you cannot move past? Have you experienced a situation that was unexpected, ongoing, and/or highly stressful? Have you experienced the loss of someone you love? If you can answer "yes" to any of these questions, there is hope! Learning healthy ways to process and cope is not easy and often does not come naturally, that's where I can help. If you are wanting to take control over your life and deal with life's stressors and difficulties in healthy ways, I can offer you a supportive, positive environment that will allow you to do so.
(281) 502-4129 View (281) 502-4129
Photo of Heather Richard, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Richard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77044  (Online Only)
Currently providing therapy services in Texas, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. Do you have difficulties managing moods, anxiety, stress, or have a history of trauma? Do you have difficulties managing relationships, family, or work stress? Do you have uncertainty of your purpose or goals in life? Aspiring Wellness can assistance you in change/improve life outcome, and self wellness. We serve the Texas, Tennessee, and Oklahoma area.
Currently providing therapy services in Texas, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. Do you have difficulties managing moods, anxiety, stress, or have a history of trauma? Do you have difficulties managing relationships, family, or work stress? Do you have uncertainty of your purpose or goals in life? Aspiring Wellness can assistance you in change/improve life outcome, and self wellness. We serve the Texas, Tennessee, and Oklahoma area.
(713) 491-2580 View (713) 491-2580
Photo of Thomson K Ivins, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomson K Ivins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77057
We all live through grief, stress and interpersonal issues that can set us up to work against our self - stress from recent events or stress from an old wound in our heart that never healed. I strive to provide my clients with an outlet to identify and work through those factors limiting our joy and peace. I believe in the therapeutic process and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients.
We all live through grief, stress and interpersonal issues that can set us up to work against our self - stress from recent events or stress from an old wound in our heart that never healed. I strive to provide my clients with an outlet to identify and work through those factors limiting our joy and peace. I believe in the therapeutic process and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients.
(281) 916-6280 View (281) 916-6280
Photo of Abbi Jones Pruitt Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, NCC, LPC-S, LMSW, LCDC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abbi Jones Pruitt Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S, LMSW, LCDC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77014  (Online Only)
Board Certified, with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and social services field, I take pride in providing a safe and non-judgmental space for people to share their experiences and explore new ways of coping with life's challenges. Taking the first step to seek counseling takes courage. For some, it can be frightening, intimidating and uncomfortable; for others, embarrassing. My goal is to help make it one of the best decisions of your life! Allow me to guide and assist you in your journey.
Board Certified, with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and social services field, I take pride in providing a safe and non-judgmental space for people to share their experiences and explore new ways of coping with life's challenges. Taking the first step to seek counseling takes courage. For some, it can be frightening, intimidating and uncomfortable; for others, embarrassing. My goal is to help make it one of the best decisions of your life! Allow me to guide and assist you in your journey.
(281) 549-8170 View (281) 549-8170
Photo of LaToya Ashley, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaToya Ashley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77021
Are you ready to unpack that baggage you’ve been carrying around filled with life stressors like the weight of heavy emotions, unresolved trauma, relationship chaos, mental anguish, mommy/daddy complexities, parenting struggles, and/or lifeing as a Gen Z. Are you ready for relief, to get back control, and to create change? Then, join me on the couch or a virtual room. Therapy is about breaking through the uncomfortable to get to comfort, unwinding the tangles of the past to walk in to a better future, processing the truth of the present, and collaborating on a game plan to start making things happen for YOU your way.
Are you ready to unpack that baggage you’ve been carrying around filled with life stressors like the weight of heavy emotions, unresolved trauma, relationship chaos, mental anguish, mommy/daddy complexities, parenting struggles, and/or lifeing as a Gen Z. Are you ready for relief, to get back control, and to create change? Then, join me on the couch or a virtual room. Therapy is about breaking through the uncomfortable to get to comfort, unwinding the tangles of the past to walk in to a better future, processing the truth of the present, and collaborating on a game plan to start making things happen for YOU your way.
(346) 277-9720 View (346) 277-9720
Photo of Rebekah Jones, LPC, Counselor
Rebekah Jones
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
I operate from the stance that people were not intended to suffer alone. Often, burdens that appear too heavy or too great to move beneath feel that way because the individual does not have adequate resources and skills to process the situations or experiences. As a therapist, I have been blessed to stand alongside many individuals as they planted their feet back on the ground and learned to skills necessary to alter their view of self or to shift so that they became bigger than their pain.
I operate from the stance that people were not intended to suffer alone. Often, burdens that appear too heavy or too great to move beneath feel that way because the individual does not have adequate resources and skills to process the situations or experiences. As a therapist, I have been blessed to stand alongside many individuals as they planted their feet back on the ground and learned to skills necessary to alter their view of self or to shift so that they became bigger than their pain.
(832) 770-7693 View (832) 770-7693
Photo of Rachel Minkin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Minkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77071  (Online Only)
I am licensed in both Texas and NY. My ideal client is someone who struggles with anxiety and / or depression or someone who is dealing with difficulty in their relationship and needs guidance on how to set healthy boundaries in those relationships. Someone who is looking for practical ways to counter the spiral of anxiety or depression.
I am licensed in both Texas and NY. My ideal client is someone who struggles with anxiety and / or depression or someone who is dealing with difficulty in their relationship and needs guidance on how to set healthy boundaries in those relationships. Someone who is looking for practical ways to counter the spiral of anxiety or depression.
(346) 472-3063 View (346) 472-3063
Photo of Kathryn Conly, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Conly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
My name is Kathryn Conly, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (TX 10114). I have a nonjudgmental approach and create a relaxed and compassionate atmosphere for us to explore the issues you may be struggling with and generate a plan to impact whatever it is you may want to change. My goal is to empower you to realize your goals! I am respectful and comforting. I create a relaxing, open, and informal environment allowing a little humor when appropriate. I prefer to lighten the mood by not taking life so seriously while being straightforward and direct when needed.
My name is Kathryn Conly, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (TX 10114). I have a nonjudgmental approach and create a relaxed and compassionate atmosphere for us to explore the issues you may be struggling with and generate a plan to impact whatever it is you may want to change. My goal is to empower you to realize your goals! I am respectful and comforting. I create a relaxing, open, and informal environment allowing a little humor when appropriate. I prefer to lighten the mood by not taking life so seriously while being straightforward and direct when needed.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Chris Sovereign - Sovereign Counseling, LLC, MEd, LPC, Counselor
Sovereign Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77008  (Online Only)
I believe that most people face challenges in their lives that they need help finding the right tools to cope with. It is important to me that I establish a trusting relationship, where a client can be open about their issues. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified school counselor. I received a B. Ed from University of Houston and a M. Ed. in Counseling from Sam Houston State University. I enjoy working with individuals, families and couples dealing with issues including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and grief. I also specialize in infertility and women's issues.
I believe that most people face challenges in their lives that they need help finding the right tools to cope with. It is important to me that I establish a trusting relationship, where a client can be open about their issues. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified school counselor. I received a B. Ed from University of Houston and a M. Ed. in Counseling from Sam Houston State University. I enjoy working with individuals, families and couples dealing with issues including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and grief. I also specialize in infertility and women's issues.
(281) 408-4652 View (281) 408-4652
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Houston, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Houston, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
73% Self Esteem
70% Coping Skills
66% Relationship Issues
65% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Houston, TX see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Houston?

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.