Therapists in Vermont

View cities and counties in Vermont
Photo of Kate Golding, LCMHC, ATR-P, Counselor
Kate Golding
Counselor, LCMHC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brattleboro, VT 05301  (Online Only)
A unique and personalized approach to therapy is important because your reasons for seeking therapy are unique and personal. Whether you are looking for short-term support around a specific challenge or ongoing work to better manage life's stressors, I will work with you to identify your therapeutic needs and goals. We will use a variety of evidence-based practices to support you in working toward those goals within a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Meeting through a secure telehealth platform allows you to join sessions from a private space where you feel most comfortable.
A unique and personalized approach to therapy is important because your reasons for seeking therapy are unique and personal. Whether you are looking for short-term support around a specific challenge or ongoing work to better manage life's stressors, I will work with you to identify your therapeutic needs and goals. We will use a variety of evidence-based practices to support you in working toward those goals within a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Meeting through a secure telehealth platform allows you to join sessions from a private space where you feel most comfortable.
(802) 278-6930 View (802) 278-6930
Photo of Poa Mutino, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Poa Mutino
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barre, VT 05641
Not accepting new clients
My practice is dynamic, warm, and focused. I believe in a trauma transformational approach. I ask questions such as "how can I help?" and "where do you feel that emotion/thought/anxiety/depression etc. in your body?" I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2+ youth. I offer group therapy for youth and adults. Through group and 1:1 work, I help foster an understanding and feeling of belonging, safety and possibility.
My practice is dynamic, warm, and focused. I believe in a trauma transformational approach. I ask questions such as "how can I help?" and "where do you feel that emotion/thought/anxiety/depression etc. in your body?" I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2+ youth. I offer group therapy for youth and adults. Through group and 1:1 work, I help foster an understanding and feeling of belonging, safety and possibility.
(802) 723-2714 View (802) 723-2714
Photo of Casey Goldman, LCMHC, Counselor
Casey Goldman
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
*** I am NOT taking new clients at this time*** I am an advance-trained clinical hypnotherapist and LCMHC. I have personally experienced the healing and growth that comes from using clinical hypnotherapy within a supportive therapeutic milieu. I find the accelerated, effective results from clinical hypnosis very impressive and enjoy helping others heal and actualize change with this powerful technique. I approach counseling from a client-centered perspective, meet people where they are at, and help them get to where they want to be without judgement or pressure.
*** I am NOT taking new clients at this time*** I am an advance-trained clinical hypnotherapist and LCMHC. I have personally experienced the healing and growth that comes from using clinical hypnotherapy within a supportive therapeutic milieu. I find the accelerated, effective results from clinical hypnosis very impressive and enjoy helping others heal and actualize change with this powerful technique. I approach counseling from a client-centered perspective, meet people where they are at, and help them get to where they want to be without judgement or pressure.
(802) 731-9577 View (802) 731-9577
Photo of Patricia M Corrigan, PhD, LCMHC, Counselor
Patricia M Corrigan
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
In my 45 years of experience as a licensed therapist working with individuals and couples, I've learned that we all want understanding, respect, and love. We want fulfillment, meaning, and happiness - individually, and in our relationships. Psychotherapy can help us develop the insights and skills we need to understand, respect, and love ourselves and others. We can change worn out, old habits, build resilience, and become more of who we long to be.
In my 45 years of experience as a licensed therapist working with individuals and couples, I've learned that we all want understanding, respect, and love. We want fulfillment, meaning, and happiness - individually, and in our relationships. Psychotherapy can help us develop the insights and skills we need to understand, respect, and love ourselves and others. We can change worn out, old habits, build resilience, and become more of who we long to be.
(603) 931-3447 View (603) 931-3447
Photo of Lani Gerrard, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Lani Gerrard
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Welcome! You took the first steps to find support, and I'll be happy to help you on your wellness journey. I provide collaborative, respectful psychotherapy for adults struggling with a variety of concerns including: anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, persistent negative beliefs, and emotions that are overwhelming and/or confusing. My clients often find that they get relief from the patterns and symptoms they've had for years. I have a B.A. in Psychology and a M.A. in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine. I have 17 years experience working with adults, children and families. I am currently only seeing adults.
Welcome! You took the first steps to find support, and I'll be happy to help you on your wellness journey. I provide collaborative, respectful psychotherapy for adults struggling with a variety of concerns including: anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, persistent negative beliefs, and emotions that are overwhelming and/or confusing. My clients often find that they get relief from the patterns and symptoms they've had for years. I have a B.A. in Psychology and a M.A. in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine. I have 17 years experience working with adults, children and families. I am currently only seeing adults.
(802) 242-8019 View (802) 242-8019
Photo of Rick Barnett, PsyD, MA, MS, LADC, Psychologist
Rick Barnett
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS, LADC
Verified Verified
Stowe, VT 05672
Expanding my practice to include Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Consultation available for psychedelic medicine preparation and integration. I convey understanding and optimism which may enhance a sense of meaning, awareness, and hope. I offer secure Online and Text-Based Consultations using various platforms. Some insurance accepted. Some prefer self-payment outside of insurance for privacy. Monthly subscription for text-based option using SIGNAL app.
Expanding my practice to include Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Consultation available for psychedelic medicine preparation and integration. I convey understanding and optimism which may enhance a sense of meaning, awareness, and hope. I offer secure Online and Text-Based Consultations using various platforms. Some insurance accepted. Some prefer self-payment outside of insurance for privacy. Monthly subscription for text-based option using SIGNAL app.
(802) 222-0105 View (802) 222-0105
Photo of Michele Delaney, MEd, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Michele Delaney
Counselor, MEd, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
Not accepting new clients
Finding someone with whom you feel comfortable and understood is the most important factor in effective therapy. I offer a safe place to explore your concerns while learning healthy and effective ways to manage intense feelings and resolve problems. Our work together can help you uncover ways your past may be impacting your present, learn new ways of looking at things, and grow confidence in your ability to live well.
Finding someone with whom you feel comfortable and understood is the most important factor in effective therapy. I offer a safe place to explore your concerns while learning healthy and effective ways to manage intense feelings and resolve problems. Our work together can help you uncover ways your past may be impacting your present, learn new ways of looking at things, and grow confidence in your ability to live well.
(802) 552-8301 View (802) 552-8301
Photo of Towanda Geary, RN, BSN, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Towanda Geary
Pre-Licensed Professional, RN, BSN, MA
Verified Verified
Swanton, VT 05488
My work as an Emotional Support Life Coach is enhanced by my background in psychotherapy and nursing. It brings a progressive approach to self-healing. Using a myriad of techniques including hypnotherapy, EMDR, Reiki and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, I work with individuals and families to identify personal strengths locked behind negative energy. I work to empower others to discover their truth, harmonize personal healing and define a positive pathway to life-long happiness. I specialize in treating trauma due to abuse, neglect, domestic violence, anger, anxiety, depression, grief and difficult relationships.
My work as an Emotional Support Life Coach is enhanced by my background in psychotherapy and nursing. It brings a progressive approach to self-healing. Using a myriad of techniques including hypnotherapy, EMDR, Reiki and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, I work with individuals and families to identify personal strengths locked behind negative energy. I work to empower others to discover their truth, harmonize personal healing and define a positive pathway to life-long happiness. I specialize in treating trauma due to abuse, neglect, domestic violence, anger, anxiety, depression, grief and difficult relationships.
(802) 821-4615 View (802) 821-4615
Photo of Sarah Chadwell, LCMHC, Counselor
Sarah Chadwell
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Sarah and welcome to Discovering Balance Counseling Services! Life can be painful and difficult at times and my hope as a therapist is to be able to provide you with the validation to meet you where you are and support you into creating a life you want to live. I work with individuals 16 years old and up who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, work or school issues, transitional life experiences, and general daily life struggles. I work with birthing and non birthing parents who are navigating pre and post natal life.
I'm Sarah and welcome to Discovering Balance Counseling Services! Life can be painful and difficult at times and my hope as a therapist is to be able to provide you with the validation to meet you where you are and support you into creating a life you want to live. I work with individuals 16 years old and up who are struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, work or school issues, transitional life experiences, and general daily life struggles. I work with birthing and non birthing parents who are navigating pre and post natal life.
(802) 397-9148 View (802) 397-9148
Photo of Steven Olaf Langehough - Getting Back On Track Counseling / Langehough, PhD, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Getting Back On Track Counseling / Langehough
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LADC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05408
Getting Back On Track Counseling offers multiple decades of familiarity with the issues of substance abuse, faith, marriage & pre-marriage, relationships, military member & family pre-/post-deployment, suicide, trauma, post-traumatic stress, blended families, and stress management. GBOTC strives to assist individuals, couples, and families in moving forward with a strength-based focus. Specialized training includes Addiction Treatment in Military & Veteran Culture, Clinical Supervision in the Addiction Profession, Strong Bonds (marital/significant other/family relationships), and PTSD/trauma resiliency.
Getting Back On Track Counseling offers multiple decades of familiarity with the issues of substance abuse, faith, marriage & pre-marriage, relationships, military member & family pre-/post-deployment, suicide, trauma, post-traumatic stress, blended families, and stress management. GBOTC strives to assist individuals, couples, and families in moving forward with a strength-based focus. Specialized training includes Addiction Treatment in Military & Veteran Culture, Clinical Supervision in the Addiction Profession, Strong Bonds (marital/significant other/family relationships), and PTSD/trauma resiliency.
(802) 992-1610 View (802) 992-1610
Photo of Jean Pollock, MHC, NCC, Counselor
Jean Pollock
Counselor, MHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newfane, VT 05345
Waitlist for new clients
After over 25 years in private practice (see www.JeanPollock.com ) I currently work with adult individuals using a fairly integrative approach. Of particular expertise are depression, anxiety, & childhood trauma and its manifestations in the body. More important than the particular issue, however, is my belief that times of stress in our lives -and even times that might seem particularly hopeless- can serve as opportunities for increased understanding and growth. Psychotherapy with a "seasoned" clinician can be a fascinating and effective tool to facilitate that transformation and growth.
After over 25 years in private practice (see www.JeanPollock.com ) I currently work with adult individuals using a fairly integrative approach. Of particular expertise are depression, anxiety, & childhood trauma and its manifestations in the body. More important than the particular issue, however, is my belief that times of stress in our lives -and even times that might seem particularly hopeless- can serve as opportunities for increased understanding and growth. Psychotherapy with a "seasoned" clinician can be a fascinating and effective tool to facilitate that transformation and growth.
(802) 949-0024 View (802) 949-0024
Photo of Kiana Gates, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiana Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Bennington, VT 05201
Waitlist for new clients
No two people experience trauma, stress, anxiety, or depression the same way, and therapy isn't "one size fits all". Everyone has diverse experiences that impact their worldview and perception of self, and everyone's path to healing is unique. We might be a good fit if you're looking for a therapist who understands that and welcomes a collaborative approach to healing!
No two people experience trauma, stress, anxiety, or depression the same way, and therapy isn't "one size fits all". Everyone has diverse experiences that impact their worldview and perception of self, and everyone's path to healing is unique. We might be a good fit if you're looking for a therapist who understands that and welcomes a collaborative approach to healing!
(802) 328-9092 View (802) 328-9092
Photo of Demaris Tisdale, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Demaris Tisdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
As a young girl is Pittsburgh, I saw people around me being unhappy, confused, not knowing what to do. I wanted to understand why they got themselves in trouble, and why they were troubled. I was curious, and sad. Over the years I learned what those unhappy people could have done. My education began as a teacher of young children. Then I became a caseworker helping people with parenting, adoptions, and the miseries of poverty. Finally, I trained to be a therapist, and treated troubled teenagers, adults with illness, and the old and dying.
As a young girl is Pittsburgh, I saw people around me being unhappy, confused, not knowing what to do. I wanted to understand why they got themselves in trouble, and why they were troubled. I was curious, and sad. Over the years I learned what those unhappy people could have done. My education began as a teacher of young children. Then I became a caseworker helping people with parenting, adoptions, and the miseries of poverty. Finally, I trained to be a therapist, and treated troubled teenagers, adults with illness, and the old and dying.
(802) 282-4207 View (802) 282-4207
Photo of Jennifer Stefanski, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Stefanski
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stowe, VT 05672
Not accepting new clients
Each of our lives are filled with experiences that bring highs and lows, successes and challenges, clarity and confusion, and varying degrees of everything in between. Sometimes we feel in our flow and things seem to be going as planned, and other times the road ahead is not as clear and we may feel overwhelmed, lost, isolated and/or out of balance, and realize we need some additional support. As we live out our daily lives in the present, sometimes the things impacting our here and now are easy to identify. But other times, getting to the root of the matter isn’t as obvious and requires a little more exploration.
Each of our lives are filled with experiences that bring highs and lows, successes and challenges, clarity and confusion, and varying degrees of everything in between. Sometimes we feel in our flow and things seem to be going as planned, and other times the road ahead is not as clear and we may feel overwhelmed, lost, isolated and/or out of balance, and realize we need some additional support. As we live out our daily lives in the present, sometimes the things impacting our here and now are easy to identify. But other times, getting to the root of the matter isn’t as obvious and requires a little more exploration.
(802) 471-2835 View (802) 471-2835
Photo of Dr. Naomi M Dogan - Naomi M. Dogan, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, PhD, CGP, Psychologist
Naomi M. Dogan, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brattleboro, VT 05301  (Online Only)
I identify as a neurodiverse (ND) autistic psychologist. Like many, I discovered at midlife I’m on the “invisible” end of the spectrum. I now specialize in assisting other ND/autistic adults & their allies as they a) explore identity/diagnosis, b) cope with ongoing life adjustments/ND burnout & c) make informed choices about how/when it is safe to “unmask.” I help clients: identify personal life/career-related challenges, build upon strengths, & make constructive changes to create a ‘right-sized’ life. I’m a multicultural-educated ally & offer affirming space for marginalized folx (BIPOC, LGBTQAI+, ENM/polyamory, differently-abled).
I identify as a neurodiverse (ND) autistic psychologist. Like many, I discovered at midlife I’m on the “invisible” end of the spectrum. I now specialize in assisting other ND/autistic adults & their allies as they a) explore identity/diagnosis, b) cope with ongoing life adjustments/ND burnout & c) make informed choices about how/when it is safe to “unmask.” I help clients: identify personal life/career-related challenges, build upon strengths, & make constructive changes to create a ‘right-sized’ life. I’m a multicultural-educated ally & offer affirming space for marginalized folx (BIPOC, LGBTQAI+, ENM/polyamory, differently-abled).
(802) 565-5718 View (802) 565-5718
Photo of Amber Lange, MS, CMHC
Amber Lange
MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
Winooski, VT 05404  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life is complicated, stressful, and can feel overwhelming, especially in today's world. When interpersonal relationships, family dynamics, or mental health challenges present themselves it is comforting to know that you don't have to sit with all of that by yourself. Connecting with someone and working on life's difficulties, whether it be old wounds or new, can be liberating and empowering. Together we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions; together we can work on the difficult and rewarding work of being the best version of yourself you can be.
Sometimes life is complicated, stressful, and can feel overwhelming, especially in today's world. When interpersonal relationships, family dynamics, or mental health challenges present themselves it is comforting to know that you don't have to sit with all of that by yourself. Connecting with someone and working on life's difficulties, whether it be old wounds or new, can be liberating and empowering. Together we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions; together we can work on the difficult and rewarding work of being the best version of yourself you can be.
(802) 300-4175 View (802) 300-4175
Photo of Emiry S Potter, MA, LCMHC, LADC, NCC, Counselor
Emiry S Potter
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
I utilize a non-judgmental and collaborative approach in a natural conversational style. My mission is to assist people in increasing their self-knowledge to create positive change.
I utilize a non-judgmental and collaborative approach in a natural conversational style. My mission is to assist people in increasing their self-knowledge to create positive change.
(802) 739-0086 View (802) 739-0086
Photo of Christine Milne-O'Grady, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Milne-O'Grady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819  (Online Only)
Please see my website for the most up-to-date information. I utilize strengths-based therapies to work with my clients to create customized sessions that build coping skills and replace maladaptive behaviors. I am mindful of the “person-in-environment” perspective, which acknowledges that each client and situation is different and shaped by environmental context. I like to meet the client where they are mentally and emotionally and work from that spot, understanding that growth is not always a linear process.
Please see my website for the most up-to-date information. I utilize strengths-based therapies to work with my clients to create customized sessions that build coping skills and replace maladaptive behaviors. I am mindful of the “person-in-environment” perspective, which acknowledges that each client and situation is different and shaped by environmental context. I like to meet the client where they are mentally and emotionally and work from that spot, understanding that growth is not always a linear process.
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Photo of Bruce Chalmer, Psychologist
Bruce Chalmer
Psychologist
Verified Verified
South Burlington, VT 05403  (Online Only)
I currently have openings for couples sessions via telehealth. In my 30+ years of experience, I've helped couples deal with a wide variety of issues, including infidelity, sex problems, parenting differences, extended-family problems, and a lot more. Check out my books, podcast, and videos on my website for more about how I work with you.
I currently have openings for couples sessions via telehealth. In my 30+ years of experience, I've helped couples deal with a wide variety of issues, including infidelity, sex problems, parenting differences, extended-family problems, and a lot more. Check out my books, podcast, and videos on my website for more about how I work with you.
(802) 227-2308 View (802) 227-2308
Photo of Mitch Lisa - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couples Workshops/Seminars, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couples Workshops/Seminars
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(802) 523-2163 View (802) 523-2163
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How does your Therapist compare?

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Vermont who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Medicaid
50% MVP Health Care

How Therapists in Vermont see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
21% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Vermont?

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.