Therapists in Bristol, VT

Photo of Carolyn M Dundon, Psychologist, PhD
Carolyn M Dundon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bristol, VT 05443
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating difficulties with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood regulation, & trauma in adults. I also treat couples/relationship issues, & sexual concerns. My theoretical orientation emphasizes mindfulness-based & cognitive therapies & integrates principles from contemporary psychodynamic/existential therapies. In my work I am inspired by the human potential for psychological flexibility, behavioral change, & greater self-understanding. My research in women's sexuality has informed my comfort with sexual concerns, while my studies in Buddhist philosophy strengthen my implementation of mindfulness-based therapies.
I specialize in treating difficulties with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood regulation, & trauma in adults. I also treat couples/relationship issues, & sexual concerns. My theoretical orientation emphasizes mindfulness-based & cognitive therapies & integrates principles from contemporary psychodynamic/existential therapies. In my work I am inspired by the human potential for psychological flexibility, behavioral change, & greater self-understanding. My research in women's sexuality has informed my comfort with sexual concerns, while my studies in Buddhist philosophy strengthen my implementation of mindfulness-based therapies.
(802) 536-4522 View (802) 536-4522
Photo of Ric Wolak, Psychologist, MA
Ric Wolak
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you finding that as life gets busier and more complicated, you've lost connection with your family? Does it seem that your children have become more complex and harder to understand as they grow older? These are challenges that many families face, challenges that are magnified when factors such as trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment and family dynamics issues are present. We all want to feel a sense of peace, happiness and connection with those we care about. With greater understanding and support, comes greater harmony.
Are you finding that as life gets busier and more complicated, you've lost connection with your family? Does it seem that your children have become more complex and harder to understand as they grow older? These are challenges that many families face, challenges that are magnified when factors such as trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment and family dynamics issues are present. We all want to feel a sense of peace, happiness and connection with those we care about. With greater understanding and support, comes greater harmony.
(802) 242-8470 View (802) 242-8470
Photo of Isabelle Clark, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Isabelle Clark
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Bristol, VT 05443
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes we all need extra support as we navigate life's challenges. My counseling approach is grounded in the belief that everyone is capable of change and that we all have within us a deep well of strength and resilience that enables us to overcome and move toward our fullest and most empowered selves. Together, we will work to draw on your strengths and resources, clarify your goals, and explore your internal and external worlds in order to deepen your awareness and create the space for change, growth, and healing.
Sometimes we all need extra support as we navigate life's challenges. My counseling approach is grounded in the belief that everyone is capable of change and that we all have within us a deep well of strength and resilience that enables us to overcome and move toward our fullest and most empowered selves. Together, we will work to draw on your strengths and resources, clarify your goals, and explore your internal and external worlds in order to deepen your awareness and create the space for change, growth, and healing.
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Photo of Ellen J Repstad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Ellen J Repstad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life can be painful. Trauma, loss, addiction, anxiety, depression and other stressors can sometimes make us feel like there is no point to going on. Even when you are doing your best, you may feel lost. I can help.
Life can be painful. Trauma, loss, addiction, anxiety, depression and other stressors can sometimes make us feel like there is no point to going on. Even when you are doing your best, you may feel lost. I can help.
(802) 553-3674 View (802) 553-3674
Photo of Courtney Cioffredi, Registered Psychotherapist
Courtney Cioffredi
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Bristol, VT 05443
I offer evening and weekend appointments for clients seeking to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to better understand themselves and find their path to wellness. Whether dealing with stress, worry, or navigating life’s challenges, therapy can provide support. If feeling stuck or disconnected, we can work together to regain clarity and confidence. In our sessions, we’ll uncover the deeper meaning behind challenges and help you navigate your personal journey, empowering you to move forward with clarity and strength.
I offer evening and weekend appointments for clients seeking to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to better understand themselves and find their path to wellness. Whether dealing with stress, worry, or navigating life’s challenges, therapy can provide support. If feeling stuck or disconnected, we can work together to regain clarity and confidence. In our sessions, we’ll uncover the deeper meaning behind challenges and help you navigate your personal journey, empowering you to move forward with clarity and strength.
(802) 233-9057 View (802) 233-9057
Photo of Deina K Olstad, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC, NCC
Deina K Olstad
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VT 05443
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. You may have arrived here seeking an increased sense of calm, connection, confidence, clarity and overall greater life fulfillment. You may be grappling with life transitions, relationships, early parenthood, or traumatic experiences that have given rise to a sense of overwhelm with heightened fear, sadness, anger, or confusion. These burdens can make it hard to find joy and meaning, feel connected, or show up in your daily life. In these times of vulnerability we can all use a guide for support in healing the past and coping and thriving in the present so that we may move closer to the meaningful lives we aspire to live.
Welcome. You may have arrived here seeking an increased sense of calm, connection, confidence, clarity and overall greater life fulfillment. You may be grappling with life transitions, relationships, early parenthood, or traumatic experiences that have given rise to a sense of overwhelm with heightened fear, sadness, anger, or confusion. These burdens can make it hard to find joy and meaning, feel connected, or show up in your daily life. In these times of vulnerability we can all use a guide for support in healing the past and coping and thriving in the present so that we may move closer to the meaningful lives we aspire to live.
(802) 278-9986 View (802) 278-9986
Photo of Kristen J Ginsburg, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Kristen J Ginsburg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, VT 05443
Taking new clients. I am passionate about your personal growth and helping you identify and achieve your life goals. I use attachment theory, somatic awareness, mindfulness techniques, and a polyvagal framework to help you identify your thoughts and feelings. Once we name it, then we tame it! We will work to increase understanding, coping skills, and focus through the exploration of your unique story.
Taking new clients. I am passionate about your personal growth and helping you identify and achieve your life goals. I use attachment theory, somatic awareness, mindfulness techniques, and a polyvagal framework to help you identify your thoughts and feelings. Once we name it, then we tame it! We will work to increase understanding, coping skills, and focus through the exploration of your unique story.
(802) 546-8708 View (802) 546-8708
Photo of Mollie German, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, ATR-BC
Mollie German
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, VT 05443
Not accepting new clients
Psychotherapy is a collaboration existing within a trusted, safe relationship. We can work together to find the place within you that is well. We will develop a space for you to notice internal cues and explore your reactivity. By bringing awareness to your strengths and exploring internalized emotions, we can safely increase your felt sense which leads to integration. We will work together to see beyond diagnosis and explore the human experience, following the innate wisdom of your body and it's ability to heal from trauma.
Psychotherapy is a collaboration existing within a trusted, safe relationship. We can work together to find the place within you that is well. We will develop a space for you to notice internal cues and explore your reactivity. By bringing awareness to your strengths and exploring internalized emotions, we can safely increase your felt sense which leads to integration. We will work together to see beyond diagnosis and explore the human experience, following the innate wisdom of your body and it's ability to heal from trauma.
(802) 613-0764 View (802) 613-0764
Photo of Helen Maciejewski, Registered Psychotherapist, MS
Helen Maciejewski
Registered Psychotherapist, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, VT 05443
I believe that the relationship between client and counselor is key to healing and growth. I bring a supportive and non-judgmental approach to examine the thoughts and beliefs that keep us stuck in unproductive and often painful patterns in our lives and in our relationships. Using warmth, compassionate curiosity, humor, and especially respect, I build a strong alliance to support adults from all backgrounds and identities who are experiencing depression, anxiety, difficulty in relationships, major life transitions, substance use, abuse, and addiction. Together we can begin to identify and heal breaches in trust from the past.
I believe that the relationship between client and counselor is key to healing and growth. I bring a supportive and non-judgmental approach to examine the thoughts and beliefs that keep us stuck in unproductive and often painful patterns in our lives and in our relationships. Using warmth, compassionate curiosity, humor, and especially respect, I build a strong alliance to support adults from all backgrounds and identities who are experiencing depression, anxiety, difficulty in relationships, major life transitions, substance use, abuse, and addiction. Together we can begin to identify and heal breaches in trust from the past.
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Photo of Paula Chadwick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Paula Chadwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Let me acknowledge that it can be so challenging to find a therapist that takes your insurance, has availability, aligns with your schedule, and is someone you click with. Let me tell you all the main things you need to know to determine if we might be a good fit: I offer virtual individual sessions to adults residing in Vermont and New Jersey. I mostly work in the evenings, with limited availability during the day. I don't have much flexibility in my schedule, so I typically see clients on consistent days and times - weekly or bi-weekly. Please email to connect.
Let me acknowledge that it can be so challenging to find a therapist that takes your insurance, has availability, aligns with your schedule, and is someone you click with. Let me tell you all the main things you need to know to determine if we might be a good fit: I offer virtual individual sessions to adults residing in Vermont and New Jersey. I mostly work in the evenings, with limited availability during the day. I don't have much flexibility in my schedule, so I typically see clients on consistent days and times - weekly or bi-weekly. Please email to connect.
(802) 873-7199 View (802) 873-7199
Photo of Molly E Milliken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Molly E Milliken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I'm so glad you're taking the time to take care of yourself. Therapy is a personal journey and it's important that you feel empowered to make decisions to change your life in the way that works best for you. That's where I can help. If you're new to therapy and you're not sure what's next or if you're a therapy veteran and want to explore new edges, we can identify those steps together. I believe in therapy as a collaborative process and you are the expert of your own life. You deserve to have a place to speak, where you can be heard, that is just for you.
Hello! I'm so glad you're taking the time to take care of yourself. Therapy is a personal journey and it's important that you feel empowered to make decisions to change your life in the way that works best for you. That's where I can help. If you're new to therapy and you're not sure what's next or if you're a therapy veteran and want to explore new edges, we can identify those steps together. I believe in therapy as a collaborative process and you are the expert of your own life. You deserve to have a place to speak, where you can be heard, that is just for you.
(802) 810-8322 View (802) 810-8322
Photo of Jaime Dawson, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Jaime Dawson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
​You try (or tried as a child) to make yourself small and stay under the radar to just get by. Home life is/was unpredictable and sometimes volatile. You’ve struggled with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and hopelessness. You don’t trust easily and are guarded. You may feel the impacts of this as numbness, tension, pain, or a sense of disconnection from your physicality. You may believe you’re all you’ll ever have in this world. You may struggle with your own gender identity or, as a parent/caregiver, need support to show-up for a gender creative, gender expansive, trans, or non-binary child or teen.
​You try (or tried as a child) to make yourself small and stay under the radar to just get by. Home life is/was unpredictable and sometimes volatile. You’ve struggled with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and hopelessness. You don’t trust easily and are guarded. You may feel the impacts of this as numbness, tension, pain, or a sense of disconnection from your physicality. You may believe you’re all you’ll ever have in this world. You may struggle with your own gender identity or, as a parent/caregiver, need support to show-up for a gender creative, gender expansive, trans, or non-binary child or teen.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Amy Aiko Hovland, Registered Psychotherapist, MSW
Amy Aiko Hovland
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
You don’t feel ready for what you’re going through. You may be facing hardship because of gender role non-conformity, capitalist abuses, queerness, poverty, racism, classism, misogyny, ageism, adultism. You are feeling more pain around being marginalized than pride in who you are. The feeling of “not - enough” is your long-time companion. The search for an identity that you can claim with confidence is a source of pain and confusion. You struggle to show-up for yourself in the face of perfectionism and White Body Supremacy that erases and destroys your uniqueness. You’ve frequently felt yourself to be an imposter.
You don’t feel ready for what you’re going through. You may be facing hardship because of gender role non-conformity, capitalist abuses, queerness, poverty, racism, classism, misogyny, ageism, adultism. You are feeling more pain around being marginalized than pride in who you are. The feeling of “not - enough” is your long-time companion. The search for an identity that you can claim with confidence is a source of pain and confusion. You struggle to show-up for yourself in the face of perfectionism and White Body Supremacy that erases and destroys your uniqueness. You’ve frequently felt yourself to be an imposter.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Penélope Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Penélope Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Openings for private pay clients, evening, afternoon, and weekend: You, your teen, or your partnership are feeling overwhelmed trying to cope with the demands of daily life. You don’t have the supports you need to consistently enjoy your life. Instead, you feel anxious and down, not knowing how to truly take care of yourself or help your teen to thrive. You may be dealing with medical needs that are complex or that you’re not getting answers for and it’s impacting your quality of life. Your relationships are suffering, you feel isolated and stuck. You know you want a change but where to turn? How to begin?
Openings for private pay clients, evening, afternoon, and weekend: You, your teen, or your partnership are feeling overwhelmed trying to cope with the demands of daily life. You don’t have the supports you need to consistently enjoy your life. Instead, you feel anxious and down, not knowing how to truly take care of yourself or help your teen to thrive. You may be dealing with medical needs that are complex or that you’re not getting answers for and it’s impacting your quality of life. Your relationships are suffering, you feel isolated and stuck. You know you want a change but where to turn? How to begin?
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Corrine Mertz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Corrine Mertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, VT 05443
Update 4/4/25- 3PM opening in Burlington on Mondays for private pay client: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and children alike, I utilize a modality called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
Update 4/4/25- 3PM opening in Burlington on Mondays for private pay client: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and children alike, I utilize a modality called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Margaret A Olson, Counselor, MACP, CSD
Margaret A Olson
Counselor, MACP, CSD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Grief is perhaps the most challenging and inescapable of all life experiences. And, while there are many different kinds of loss the death of a loved one can take us to new levels of emotional, mental and spiritual challenge. The death of a loved one changes us forever. From within the space of confusing emotions and uncertainties we can feel lost and alone and it is then that we most want support and community. Navigating the many phases of loss and learning how to make meaning of what seems meaningless is hard work. I have been a grief counselor for over 20 years and look forward to supporting you as you gradually rediscover joy.
Grief is perhaps the most challenging and inescapable of all life experiences. And, while there are many different kinds of loss the death of a loved one can take us to new levels of emotional, mental and spiritual challenge. The death of a loved one changes us forever. From within the space of confusing emotions and uncertainties we can feel lost and alone and it is then that we most want support and community. Navigating the many phases of loss and learning how to make meaning of what seems meaningless is hard work. I have been a grief counselor for over 20 years and look forward to supporting you as you gradually rediscover joy.
(802) 242-8227 View (802) 242-8227
Photo of Ashley Dobbins, Psychologist, PhD
Ashley Dobbins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults experiencing a range of difficulties associated with trauma, depression, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety. When working with clients, I utilize an ecological framework to conceptualize my clients' difficulties and strengths beyond mental health, working to understand how the community, relationships, and physical health also play a role so I can better support my clients in meeting their goals.
I work with adults experiencing a range of difficulties associated with trauma, depression, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety. When working with clients, I utilize an ecological framework to conceptualize my clients' difficulties and strengths beyond mental health, working to understand how the community, relationships, and physical health also play a role so I can better support my clients in meeting their goals.
(802) 575-7438 View (802) 575-7438
Photo of Anne Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Anne Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Therapy can be as much about finding more ease and joy in one's life as it is about reducing symptoms and suffering. Self-limiting cognitive, behavioral, emotional and sensorimotor (gestures/postures) tendencies often stand in the way of fully engaging in relationships (with self/others) and in the present moment. Bringing non-judgmental attention and awareness to these patterns allows us the freedom to replace re-activity with mindful responding. I work with adults seeking assistance with issues of anxiety, depression, stress management, trauma grief/loss and interpersonal/relational challenges.
Therapy can be as much about finding more ease and joy in one's life as it is about reducing symptoms and suffering. Self-limiting cognitive, behavioral, emotional and sensorimotor (gestures/postures) tendencies often stand in the way of fully engaging in relationships (with self/others) and in the present moment. Bringing non-judgmental attention and awareness to these patterns allows us the freedom to replace re-activity with mindful responding. I work with adults seeking assistance with issues of anxiety, depression, stress management, trauma grief/loss and interpersonal/relational challenges.
(802) 731-0438 View (802) 731-0438
Photo of Douglas Engel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LICSW, MPS, BA
Douglas Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LICSW, MPS, BA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
For the past 30 years I have worked with a wide range of clients ranging from children and adolescents to older adults. I have a post graduate degree in family therapy from the Ackerman Institute in New York City, the most respected family therapy training program in the country. Currently I work with folks 17 - 80 and particularly enjoy marriage counseling and helping individuals and couples with sexual issues. I've helped individuals struggling with depression, grief, anger issues, anxiety and the effects of past trauma.
For the past 30 years I have worked with a wide range of clients ranging from children and adolescents to older adults. I have a post graduate degree in family therapy from the Ackerman Institute in New York City, the most respected family therapy training program in the country. Currently I work with folks 17 - 80 and particularly enjoy marriage counseling and helping individuals and couples with sexual issues. I've helped individuals struggling with depression, grief, anger issues, anxiety and the effects of past trauma.
(802) 348-2136 View (802) 348-2136
Photo of Anie Sklar - Counseling at Otter Creek, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Counseling at Otter Creek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Feeling stuck in a life that is unfulfilling, repeating patterns or habits that don't serve your well-being and relationships right now, overwhelmed by life’s responsibilities and the tides of our rapidly changing world, or having trouble letting go of painful parts of the past? We all occasionally need help to clearly see ourselves and find new ways to live better lives.
Feeling stuck in a life that is unfulfilling, repeating patterns or habits that don't serve your well-being and relationships right now, overwhelmed by life’s responsibilities and the tides of our rapidly changing world, or having trouble letting go of painful parts of the past? We all occasionally need help to clearly see ourselves and find new ways to live better lives.
(802) 503-1736 View (802) 503-1736
1

See more therapy options for Bristol

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bristol, VT

20+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Bristol, VT who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
82% Trauma and PTSD
79% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
71% Women's Issues
68% Coping Skills
64% Grief

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Medicaid
74% BlueCross and BlueShield
57% MVP Health Care

How Therapists in Bristol, VT see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
12% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bristol?

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.