Therapists in Houston, TX

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Photo of Dr. Victoria Yu Liu, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Dr. Victoria Yu Liu
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027
I believe life is all about understanding self and finding meanings through our relationships with self and others. The power for change is within individual and their relationships with others through genuine dialogue where allow you to truly understand your own unique experience through sharing, curiosity and learning. I appreciate the uniqueness of each story and experience that my clients share, so I take tremendous care and appreciation on this journey with my client. I believe the beauty of providing a safe space for the client to truly in-touch with his or her own fear and uncertainty with me.
I believe life is all about understanding self and finding meanings through our relationships with self and others. The power for change is within individual and their relationships with others through genuine dialogue where allow you to truly understand your own unique experience through sharing, curiosity and learning. I appreciate the uniqueness of each story and experience that my clients share, so I take tremendous care and appreciation on this journey with my client. I believe the beauty of providing a safe space for the client to truly in-touch with his or her own fear and uncertainty with me.
(832) 426-3942 View (832) 426-3942
Photo of Kimberly Balicki - Online Virtual Therapy With Kimberly Balicki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Virtual Therapy With Kimberly Balicki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Book a free consultation with me now by clicking on my website! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life.
Book a free consultation with me now by clicking on my website! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life.
(346) 623-2977 View (346) 623-2977
Photo of Brooke Gomes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Brooke Gomes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Houston, TX 77098
Hi, I’m Brooke! I'm an LPC who works with people of all ages who are navigating life’s harder moments—anxiety, depression, family struggles, trauma, identity questions, health issues, and more. My approach is gentle, collaborative, and grounded in solution-focused work, mindfulness, and strengths-based support. I create a space where you can breathe, be yourself, and feel truly heard. In our early sessions, we’ll take time to get to know each other, talk about what’s bringing you in, and create goals that feel meaningful and achievable for you. It’s an honor to walk alongside and helping you find hope, strength, and self-trust.
Hi, I’m Brooke! I'm an LPC who works with people of all ages who are navigating life’s harder moments—anxiety, depression, family struggles, trauma, identity questions, health issues, and more. My approach is gentle, collaborative, and grounded in solution-focused work, mindfulness, and strengths-based support. I create a space where you can breathe, be yourself, and feel truly heard. In our early sessions, we’ll take time to get to know each other, talk about what’s bringing you in, and create goals that feel meaningful and achievable for you. It’s an honor to walk alongside and helping you find hope, strength, and self-trust.
(281) 609-7627 View (281) 609-7627
Photo of Steven Serrano, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Steven Serrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Houston, TX 77006
There are times when we experience a lack of emotional balance in our life, which can appear to be accompanied by stress, confusion, a sense of hopelessness or disconnection from families and friends. Challenging and sometimes scary, these moments provide a unique opportunity for self-discovery. My belief is that people have the potential to heal, reinvent themselves, and make meaningful life changes. I have learned through my own life experience how struggles can open a door into a deeper aspect of self, leading to a better understanding of what was missing.
There are times when we experience a lack of emotional balance in our life, which can appear to be accompanied by stress, confusion, a sense of hopelessness or disconnection from families and friends. Challenging and sometimes scary, these moments provide a unique opportunity for self-discovery. My belief is that people have the potential to heal, reinvent themselves, and make meaningful life changes. I have learned through my own life experience how struggles can open a door into a deeper aspect of self, leading to a better understanding of what was missing.
(281) 899-0597 View (281) 899-0597
Photo of Anthony J. Childress, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anthony J. Childress
Licensed Professional Counselor
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77070
Life can be challenging, and navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, or depression isn’t always easy. Seeking support is a meaningful step toward change. I offer morning virtual sessions through Headway and evening sessions through District Counseling, with both virtual and in-person options available. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered as we work together to build insight, develop practical tools, and move toward personal growth and overall well-being in a way that feels authentic and sustainable for you.
Life can be challenging, and navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, or depression isn’t always easy. Seeking support is a meaningful step toward change. I offer morning virtual sessions through Headway and evening sessions through District Counseling, with both virtual and in-person options available. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered as we work together to build insight, develop practical tools, and move toward personal growth and overall well-being in a way that feels authentic and sustainable for you.
(281) 962-4694 View (281) 962-4694
Photo of Lori Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW, CCTP, CAIMHP
Lori Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW, CCTP, CAIMHP
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007
Many people carry invisible wounds from experiences that were overwhelming, unsafe, or life-altering. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, including those healing from abusive relationships, veterans, and first responders who have spent their lives protecting others while often carrying the weight of what they have seen and endured. I work with individuals and couples experiencing hardships, life stage changes or communication issues. I use an eclectic approach of evidence based theories & tailor treatment to your individual needs to help you reconnect with your inner resilience.
Many people carry invisible wounds from experiences that were overwhelming, unsafe, or life-altering. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, including those healing from abusive relationships, veterans, and first responders who have spent their lives protecting others while often carrying the weight of what they have seen and endured. I work with individuals and couples experiencing hardships, life stage changes or communication issues. I use an eclectic approach of evidence based theories & tailor treatment to your individual needs to help you reconnect with your inner resilience.
(346) 532-3632 View (346) 532-3632
Photo of Dr. Laquinta Milson, Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC, CST
Dr. Laquinta Milson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC, CST
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
Therapy gives us an opportunity to look at the problem areas in our lives in a safe and non-judgmental environment so that we can find ways to make the changes we desire. As a licensed professional counselor with years of experience working with individuals, couples and families, Dr. Milson helps manage the feelings associated with life's struggles; recognize, understand, and change self-defeating patterns; heal past pain; discover and foster inner strength; and learn new ways to cope that allow a person to live authentically.
Therapy gives us an opportunity to look at the problem areas in our lives in a safe and non-judgmental environment so that we can find ways to make the changes we desire. As a licensed professional counselor with years of experience working with individuals, couples and families, Dr. Milson helps manage the feelings associated with life's struggles; recognize, understand, and change self-defeating patterns; heal past pain; discover and foster inner strength; and learn new ways to cope that allow a person to live authentically.
(832) 558-3318 View (832) 558-3318
Photo of Aryeh Minkin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Aryeh Minkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Are you feeling down? Are there relationship issues in your life? Perhaps there's problems with your child, spouse, partner, family member or friend. There is a better way, and together we will find that way. I will work with you to meet your specific needs. I am licensed in NY, TX and FL.
Are you feeling down? Are there relationship issues in your life? Perhaps there's problems with your child, spouse, partner, family member or friend. There is a better way, and together we will find that way. I will work with you to meet your specific needs. I am licensed in NY, TX and FL.
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Photo of Alexandra Marshall, LPC Intern, MEd, LPC-I
Alexandra Marshall
LPC Intern, MEd, LPC-I
Houston, TX 77019
Do you find yourself feeling anxious and stressed? Do you feel that no matter what you try, you cannot experience true satisfaction and peace in your day to day life? Do you struggle with feelings of inadequacy or poor self-esteem? Is it hard for you to accept yourself and to feel deserving of care? Do you sometimes feel that you no longer recognize yourself as the person you used to be? If so, you might find it helpful to meet with someone who has experienced these feelings and understands how difficult it can be to manage these feelings.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious and stressed? Do you feel that no matter what you try, you cannot experience true satisfaction and peace in your day to day life? Do you struggle with feelings of inadequacy or poor self-esteem? Is it hard for you to accept yourself and to feel deserving of care? Do you sometimes feel that you no longer recognize yourself as the person you used to be? If so, you might find it helpful to meet with someone who has experienced these feelings and understands how difficult it can be to manage these feelings.
(832) 261-1499 View (832) 261-1499
Photo of Doreatha L Page, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Doreatha L Page
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77021
Sometimes healing begins by simply making space for Hope to visit. Hi there, I'm Doreatha! Do you find yourself missing out or longing for a life filled with peace, purpose, and emotional clarity? How heavy has your load been? In our work together, you'll have the opportunity to reconnect with what has been missing or yet discovered. Strength that supports developing tools to move forward in confidence. My practice offers calm & support where goals and desires are welcomed & nurtured. Together, we’ll talk about what matters most to you, and build emotional and practical skills that make life more meaningful and fulfilling.
Sometimes healing begins by simply making space for Hope to visit. Hi there, I'm Doreatha! Do you find yourself missing out or longing for a life filled with peace, purpose, and emotional clarity? How heavy has your load been? In our work together, you'll have the opportunity to reconnect with what has been missing or yet discovered. Strength that supports developing tools to move forward in confidence. My practice offers calm & support where goals and desires are welcomed & nurtured. Together, we’ll talk about what matters most to you, and build emotional and practical skills that make life more meaningful and fulfilling.
(713) 597-7620 View (713) 597-7620
Photo of Chioma Ahaiwe, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Chioma Ahaiwe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Online Only
At Renewed Path Counseling, our mission is to provide high-quality, culturally competent mental health services that empower individuals and communities. We are committed to addressing the unique mental health needs of minorities and adolescents, fostering resilience, and promoting well-being. Through compassionate care and personalized support, we strive to create an inclusive environment where every client can overcome challenges and achieve their fullest potential.
At Renewed Path Counseling, our mission is to provide high-quality, culturally competent mental health services that empower individuals and communities. We are committed to addressing the unique mental health needs of minorities and adolescents, fostering resilience, and promoting well-being. Through compassionate care and personalized support, we strive to create an inclusive environment where every client can overcome challenges and achieve their fullest potential.
(832) 770-8904 View (832) 770-8904
Photo of Rachel Davidson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rachel Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your direction, you are not alone. Life’s challenges and transitions can make it hard to stay grounded and connected to yourself. I offer a supportive, compassionate space to explore what you’re experiencing, better understand yourself, and move toward meaningful change. I work with adults, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, who navigate anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, trauma, and boundary difficulties. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and non-judgmental, and I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, respected, and supported.
If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your direction, you are not alone. Life’s challenges and transitions can make it hard to stay grounded and connected to yourself. I offer a supportive, compassionate space to explore what you’re experiencing, better understand yourself, and move toward meaningful change. I work with adults, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, who navigate anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, trauma, and boundary difficulties. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and non-judgmental, and I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, respected, and supported.
(346) 336-4591 View (346) 336-4591
Photo of Alan Rivas - Alan Rivas Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alan Rivas Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Houston, TX 77025
Feeling adrift or uncertain about your life's purpose? I specialize in providing guidance and support to adults who are grappling with anxiety and depression stemming from feeling stuck or directionless. In my 20 years of counseling, I have helped individuals who have experienced emotional turmoil because they haven't yet discovered their true calling. My primary objective is to assist you in navigating the layers of falsehoods, self-deceptions, and fears that seem to exert control over your life. Through this process, you'll gain the confidence to make decisions and embrace bold choices that lead to personal transformation.
Feeling adrift or uncertain about your life's purpose? I specialize in providing guidance and support to adults who are grappling with anxiety and depression stemming from feeling stuck or directionless. In my 20 years of counseling, I have helped individuals who have experienced emotional turmoil because they haven't yet discovered their true calling. My primary objective is to assist you in navigating the layers of falsehoods, self-deceptions, and fears that seem to exert control over your life. Through this process, you'll gain the confidence to make decisions and embrace bold choices that lead to personal transformation.
(832) 345-1925 View (832) 345-1925
Photo of Johanna Hume, LPC-Associate
Johanna Hume
LPC-Associate
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
Feeling stuck, uncertain, or alone? Maybe therapy hasn’t clicked before, leaving you frustrated or unseen. On the outside, you may be capable and in control—high functioning and the one others rely on, but inside, anxiety and overwhelm are constants. Perhaps you grew up in a family that seemed fine on the surface but felt emotionally distant or chaotic. Now, relationships feel disconnected, and you move through life with a constant mental filter. If you’re looking for a therapist with life experience, curiosity, and zero judgment—a space where nothing is off limits and feedback is both gentle and honest—this might be the right fit.
Feeling stuck, uncertain, or alone? Maybe therapy hasn’t clicked before, leaving you frustrated or unseen. On the outside, you may be capable and in control—high functioning and the one others rely on, but inside, anxiety and overwhelm are constants. Perhaps you grew up in a family that seemed fine on the surface but felt emotionally distant or chaotic. Now, relationships feel disconnected, and you move through life with a constant mental filter. If you’re looking for a therapist with life experience, curiosity, and zero judgment—a space where nothing is off limits and feedback is both gentle and honest—this might be the right fit.
(832) 529-3506 View (832) 529-3506
Photo of Erin Connell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erin Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi, I’m Erin Connel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, and registered yoga teacher. I have experience in both private practice and institutional settings, supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment challenges, and other mental health concerns. My approach blends evidence-based therapy with holistic practices to support overall well-being, recognizing the important connection between mind, body, and emotional health.
Hi, I’m Erin Connel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, and registered yoga teacher. I have experience in both private practice and institutional settings, supporting individuals facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment challenges, and other mental health concerns. My approach blends evidence-based therapy with holistic practices to support overall well-being, recognizing the important connection between mind, body, and emotional health.
(346) 655-5019 View (346) 655-5019
Photo of Deborah McLeod, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Deborah McLeod
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychotherapist, I have served people in the Houston area for the past 31 years. I have worked with a diverse group of clients presenting with a wide range of issues. I strive to help clients feel safe and comfortable enough so that they can talk about absolutely anything they choose. I believe it to be essential that we build a strong therapeutic relationship so that you can succeed in resolving issues, making wanted changes and reaching chosen goals. I enjoy helping individuals build a life worth living based on their own values. I use a variety of modalities in working with clients, based on the individual's needs.
As a psychotherapist, I have served people in the Houston area for the past 31 years. I have worked with a diverse group of clients presenting with a wide range of issues. I strive to help clients feel safe and comfortable enough so that they can talk about absolutely anything they choose. I believe it to be essential that we build a strong therapeutic relationship so that you can succeed in resolving issues, making wanted changes and reaching chosen goals. I enjoy helping individuals build a life worth living based on their own values. I use a variety of modalities in working with clients, based on the individual's needs.
(281) 519-2364 View (281) 519-2364
Photo of Nneka Owusu, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nneka Owusu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Being a decent human being can be a struggle in this world. Experiences and early dynamics may have had lasting affects and may play a major role in the way you think, feel, and behave. With your help we will uncover how your experiences and dynamics play a major role in who you are today. The new self awareness will help guide us to order and help create a decent outlook on life.
Being a decent human being can be a struggle in this world. Experiences and early dynamics may have had lasting affects and may play a major role in the way you think, feel, and behave. With your help we will uncover how your experiences and dynamics play a major role in who you are today. The new self awareness will help guide us to order and help create a decent outlook on life.
(346) 553-0577 View (346) 553-0577
Photo of Lynn Quackenbush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Lynn Quackenbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77057
I have over 39 years experience, 30 post-licensure, working with individuals impacted by trauma and other interpersonal issues such as relationship problems, mood disorders and emotion regulation difficulties. I am a believer of the resilience of the human spirit, and seek to offer psychotherapy to those who wish not only to change, but to heal. If this sounds like to right approach for you, please contact me regarding services. I offer virtual therapy services to residents in the State of North Carolina, where I am additionally licensed as an LCSW.
I have over 39 years experience, 30 post-licensure, working with individuals impacted by trauma and other interpersonal issues such as relationship problems, mood disorders and emotion regulation difficulties. I am a believer of the resilience of the human spirit, and seek to offer psychotherapy to those who wish not only to change, but to heal. If this sounds like to right approach for you, please contact me regarding services. I offer virtual therapy services to residents in the State of North Carolina, where I am additionally licensed as an LCSW.
(713) 742-6895 View (713) 742-6895
Photo of Carol A. Vaughan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP, FAGPA
Carol A. Vaughan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP, FAGPA
Houston, TX 77056
Have you exhausted all that you know to do to change your ways of relating, to change your partner or to help yourself feel better? Do you find yourself irritable and frustrated, sad a lot or not sleeping well? Are you snapping at your children, co workers, friends or spouse? I specialize in helping individuals experiencing emotional difficulties or difficulties in their relationships look at ways they may be damaging their own self esteem or engaging in destructive patterns in their relationships that keep them from getting their emotional needs met.
Have you exhausted all that you know to do to change your ways of relating, to change your partner or to help yourself feel better? Do you find yourself irritable and frustrated, sad a lot or not sleeping well? Are you snapping at your children, co workers, friends or spouse? I specialize in helping individuals experiencing emotional difficulties or difficulties in their relationships look at ways they may be damaging their own self esteem or engaging in destructive patterns in their relationships that keep them from getting their emotional needs met.
(713) 533-8971 View (713) 533-8971
Photo of Katherine Hurst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Katherine Hurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Life in your teens and twenties can be hard and can require more than you have to give. You're juggling a lot, particularly lots of change, and it’s okay to need help. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, or just trying to figure out how to handle everything, we're here to provide the support you deserve. It’s not about fixing everything overnight—it’s about taking small steps forward. It’s okay to need help, and it’s okay to take that first step today. At Connection Cove Therapy, we’re here to guide you on your journey to mental well-being, one conversation at a time. Take the first step. You're worth it.
Life in your teens and twenties can be hard and can require more than you have to give. You're juggling a lot, particularly lots of change, and it’s okay to need help. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, or just trying to figure out how to handle everything, we're here to provide the support you deserve. It’s not about fixing everything overnight—it’s about taking small steps forward. It’s okay to need help, and it’s okay to take that first step today. At Connection Cove Therapy, we’re here to guide you on your journey to mental well-being, one conversation at a time. Take the first step. You're worth it.
(346) 553-9775 View (346) 553-9775

See more therapy options for Houston

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Houston, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$149

Therapists in Houston, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
71% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
67% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD
60% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
76% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Houston, TX see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% 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.