Therapists in Ruston, WA

Photo of Aubrey G. Bruce, PhD, Psychologist
Aubrey G. Bruce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ruston, WA 98407  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on helping people develop healthy, meaningful, and satisfying lives and relationships. Sometimes negative thoughts and feelings - about ourselves, other people, or the world - get in the way of us being our best selves. Clients and I collaborate to reinforce adaptive behaviors, and understand your unique strengths so that you may live a meaningful and satisfying life and improve the quality of important relationships. In therapy, we focus on both problem-solving difficult situations, as well as developing an understanding of long-term patterns that contribute to your distress.
My practice focuses on helping people develop healthy, meaningful, and satisfying lives and relationships. Sometimes negative thoughts and feelings - about ourselves, other people, or the world - get in the way of us being our best selves. Clients and I collaborate to reinforce adaptive behaviors, and understand your unique strengths so that you may live a meaningful and satisfying life and improve the quality of important relationships. In therapy, we focus on both problem-solving difficult situations, as well as developing an understanding of long-term patterns that contribute to your distress.
(425) 546-0852 View (425) 546-0852
Photo of Suzette Kincaid - Kincaid Counseling Services, MA, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kincaid Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
I work with young children, teens, and parents who are struggling with intense feelings and behaviors and seeking specialized, effective, and holistic therapy to learn practical skills and insight in order to enjoy a happier, healthier life. I help children & adolescents overcome anxiety, ADHD, developmental delays, and sensory issues. I also help parents learn new ways to support their child/adolescent that are specific to the needs of their child. I am very familiar with 504/IEP's and have experience advocating as well as helping create plans that increase school success.
I work with young children, teens, and parents who are struggling with intense feelings and behaviors and seeking specialized, effective, and holistic therapy to learn practical skills and insight in order to enjoy a happier, healthier life. I help children & adolescents overcome anxiety, ADHD, developmental delays, and sensory issues. I also help parents learn new ways to support their child/adolescent that are specific to the needs of their child. I am very familiar with 504/IEP's and have experience advocating as well as helping create plans that increase school success.
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Photo of Tatyana A Kincaid, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Tatyana A Kincaid
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
My specialty is helping clients understand why certain patterns have emerged in their lives. By fully appreciating our unwanted patterns we can gain clarity about how to change them. I believe lasting change comes from an awareness of our beliefs and values coupled with habit change. Some unique issues I work with in addition to the listed concerns are; difficulty relaxing, grief and loss, feeling others' feelings, and perfectionism.
My specialty is helping clients understand why certain patterns have emerged in their lives. By fully appreciating our unwanted patterns we can gain clarity about how to change them. I believe lasting change comes from an awareness of our beliefs and values coupled with habit change. Some unique issues I work with in addition to the listed concerns are; difficulty relaxing, grief and loss, feeling others' feelings, and perfectionism.
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Photo of Kristine Nicole Guevara, MA, LMHC
Kristine Nicole Guevara
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ruston, WA 98407  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel a heaviness in your day to day that makes it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling and isolating yourself even more from people and activities you used to enjoy? Are you needing help, but don't know where to start? You don't have to have all the answers. Let's co-create a space where we can work through today's unique struggles together and get you feeling lighter, balanced and more like yourself.
Do you feel a heaviness in your day to day that makes it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling and isolating yourself even more from people and activities you used to enjoy? Are you needing help, but don't know where to start? You don't have to have all the answers. Let's co-create a space where we can work through today's unique struggles together and get you feeling lighter, balanced and more like yourself.
(253) 478-8594 View (253) 478-8594
Photo of Kristen Borquist, MS, LMHC, NCC
Kristen Borquist
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
Are you an adult or adolescent who is struggling with anxiety; depression; relationship issues; grief; stress with facing major life events including phase of life problems; family changes; or career transitions. If so, I can help you develop new skills to minimize its impact. With having over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, and adults I highly respect, embrace, and value a multicultural perspective recognizing each client comes from a unique cultural and social context which in turn enhances, enriches, and strengthens the counseling experience.
Are you an adult or adolescent who is struggling with anxiety; depression; relationship issues; grief; stress with facing major life events including phase of life problems; family changes; or career transitions. If so, I can help you develop new skills to minimize its impact. With having over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, and adults I highly respect, embrace, and value a multicultural perspective recognizing each client comes from a unique cultural and social context which in turn enhances, enriches, and strengthens the counseling experience.
(253) 366-8379 View (253) 366-8379
Photo of Cody Joel Lail - Tacoma Counseling Services, MAT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tacoma Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAT, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407  (Online Only)
One of the things I’ve come to value the most in life is honest conversation. It’s freeing to share about things we’re struggling with, and to be truly heard without judgment. In every session, I aim to give this opportunity to my clients. I use a number of therapeutic approaches, all of which consider the whole person and recognize the impact of their closest relationships.
One of the things I’ve come to value the most in life is honest conversation. It’s freeing to share about things we’re struggling with, and to be truly heard without judgment. In every session, I aim to give this opportunity to my clients. I use a number of therapeutic approaches, all of which consider the whole person and recognize the impact of their closest relationships.
(253) 300-1258 View (253) 300-1258
Photo of Amanda Allie, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Allie
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We live in exciting and stressful times. If you’re struggling to adapt to the many changes happening, you’re not alone. And if you're reading this, you're on your way out of the struggle! Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma symptoms, or just having difficulty making positive changes in your life, therapy can help. I provide telehealth therapy sessions (no in-person), to fit better into your busy life. Together we will find solutions, improve your overall health and self-esteem, and help you live the kind of life you feel good about. I provide non-judgmental support and I will keep your concerns confidential.
We live in exciting and stressful times. If you’re struggling to adapt to the many changes happening, you’re not alone. And if you're reading this, you're on your way out of the struggle! Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma symptoms, or just having difficulty making positive changes in your life, therapy can help. I provide telehealth therapy sessions (no in-person), to fit better into your busy life. Together we will find solutions, improve your overall health and self-esteem, and help you live the kind of life you feel good about. I provide non-judgmental support and I will keep your concerns confidential.
(253) 201-1483 View (253) 201-1483
Photo of Vicki Pastore, MEd, LMHCA, Counselor
Vicki Pastore
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
Waitlist for new clients
Something happens when we sit across from someone who really sees us, hears us, and accepts us unconditionally. The relationship has the power to lift us up, shift our perspective, and bring us comfort and clarity. I'd be honored to sit across from you with the warmth, humor, compassion and skill that will support the healing and growth you are seeking. You should know that I believe in you, I will challenge you, and we will process everything together until you realize, heal, and remember the strength you have to live the life you want for yourself.
Something happens when we sit across from someone who really sees us, hears us, and accepts us unconditionally. The relationship has the power to lift us up, shift our perspective, and bring us comfort and clarity. I'd be honored to sit across from you with the warmth, humor, compassion and skill that will support the healing and growth you are seeking. You should know that I believe in you, I will challenge you, and we will process everything together until you realize, heal, and remember the strength you have to live the life you want for yourself.
(253) 321-1373 View (253) 321-1373
Photo of Jenn Parretta - Relationship And Sex Therapist, MA, LMFTA, ABS, ATR-P, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jenn Parretta - Relationship And Sex Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, ABS, ATR-P
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
Accepting New Clients! - Ready to start on a journey of self-discovery, understanding, and fulfillment? While specializing in the intricate intersections of mental health, sexuality, and creativity, I guide individuals through the process of connecting with their desires. I’ll guide you through the challenges of understanding your needs, fostering healthy relationships, and unlocking your true passions. In our safe and supportive space, we'll work together to enhance communication, embrace authenticity, and build newfound confidence that will allow you to prioritize pleasure and your wellbeing.
Accepting New Clients! - Ready to start on a journey of self-discovery, understanding, and fulfillment? While specializing in the intricate intersections of mental health, sexuality, and creativity, I guide individuals through the process of connecting with their desires. I’ll guide you through the challenges of understanding your needs, fostering healthy relationships, and unlocking your true passions. In our safe and supportive space, we'll work together to enhance communication, embrace authenticity, and build newfound confidence that will allow you to prioritize pleasure and your wellbeing.
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Photo of Kristen Allott, ND, LAC
Kristen Allott
ND, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in working with people who have tried "everything"... every medication, every diet trend, different types of doctors (and therapists)...and describe themselves as "broken" in some way. I start by looking for hypoglycemia, nutrient deficits, inflammation, and hormonal dysregulation. These are often overlooked contributors to fatigue, depression, brain fog, anxiety, and insomnia, which medication and therapy can not directly address.
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in working with people who have tried "everything"... every medication, every diet trend, different types of doctors (and therapists)...and describe themselves as "broken" in some way. I start by looking for hypoglycemia, nutrient deficits, inflammation, and hormonal dysregulation. These are often overlooked contributors to fatigue, depression, brain fog, anxiety, and insomnia, which medication and therapy can not directly address.
(206) 237-4391 View (206) 237-4391
Photo of Karin Reese, MA, LMHCA, NBC-HWC, Counselor
Karin Reese
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
Are you a woman in your 30s or beyond, seeking support, insight, and empowerment through life's challenges and triumphs? Look no further. As a licensed mental health counselor associate specializing in women's mental health, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space for women to explore, heal, and flourish. I am a passionate advocate for women's well-being, with experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of adulthood. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and evidence-based practices tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Are you a woman in your 30s or beyond, seeking support, insight, and empowerment through life's challenges and triumphs? Look no further. As a licensed mental health counselor associate specializing in women's mental health, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space for women to explore, heal, and flourish. I am a passionate advocate for women's well-being, with experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of adulthood. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and evidence-based practices tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
(253) 364-4346 View (253) 364-4346
Photo of Ellie Lucas, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407  (Online Only)
I believe that each person strives to feel contentment and become the best version of themselves. This can mean something different to each person, which is why I enjoy the diversity that each individual brings to therapy. It is exciting to watch the growth that individuals experience with some guidance and support. I specialize working with mood disorders & trauma. Trauma is any experience that has overwhelmed your ability to cope and has impacted how you now perceive yourself and the world around you. We can work together to heal and grow past previous experiences so that you can be the best version of yourself
I believe that each person strives to feel contentment and become the best version of themselves. This can mean something different to each person, which is why I enjoy the diversity that each individual brings to therapy. It is exciting to watch the growth that individuals experience with some guidance and support. I specialize working with mood disorders & trauma. Trauma is any experience that has overwhelmed your ability to cope and has impacted how you now perceive yourself and the world around you. We can work together to heal and grow past previous experiences so that you can be the best version of yourself
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Photo of Katrina Van Strien, LMHCA, ATR-P, Counselor
Katrina Van Strien
Counselor, LMHCA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
Maybe you’ve been trying too hard for far too long and need space to create some art and REST. If you have battling anxiety, perfectionism, or the crippling desire to please everyone (or leave the world behind), you’re in the right place. Maybe you've been dealing with intergenerational trauma, academic pressures, or identity struggles and the burden feels unbearable. You don’t have to keep muscling through it alone.
Maybe you’ve been trying too hard for far too long and need space to create some art and REST. If you have battling anxiety, perfectionism, or the crippling desire to please everyone (or leave the world behind), you’re in the right place. Maybe you've been dealing with intergenerational trauma, academic pressures, or identity struggles and the burden feels unbearable. You don’t have to keep muscling through it alone.
(253) 528-8357 View (253) 528-8357
Photo of Sandra Killebrew, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Killebrew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ruston, WA 98407
If you’re tired of recycling the same argument, walking on eggshells with each other or don’t know how to repair your relationship, I can help you get to the root of your disconnection. I help distressed, disconnected couples remember what it's like to be sexy best friends instead of roommates. Together, we will identify your entrenched ways of arguing so that both of you can break these patterns by learning how to clearly state how you’re feeling to your partner and in turn, listen deeply. I'll help you pay close attention to each other, so that you both feel a little more held each time we meet.
If you’re tired of recycling the same argument, walking on eggshells with each other or don’t know how to repair your relationship, I can help you get to the root of your disconnection. I help distressed, disconnected couples remember what it's like to be sexy best friends instead of roommates. Together, we will identify your entrenched ways of arguing so that both of you can break these patterns by learning how to clearly state how you’re feeling to your partner and in turn, listen deeply. I'll help you pay close attention to each other, so that you both feel a little more held each time we meet.
(253) 652-5842 View (253) 652-5842

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Fennec Clyde Oak, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Fennec Clyde Oak
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
(360) 835-6707 View (360) 835-6707
Photo of Tami Beelaert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tami Beelaert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98404  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Tami Beelaert. I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. My approach is individualized, collaborative, and solution-focused, utilizing cognitive behavioral elements. I typically work with adults and older adults struggling with life transitions, chronic illness, stress, relationship issues & grief. My background includes working in the VA and community mental health systems of care. My style is open-minded, straightforward & respectful. I offer resourcefulness and support, sprinkled with humor and the wisdom picked up from guiding people through difficulties over the past 22 years.
Welcome! I’m Tami Beelaert. I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. My approach is individualized, collaborative, and solution-focused, utilizing cognitive behavioral elements. I typically work with adults and older adults struggling with life transitions, chronic illness, stress, relationship issues & grief. My background includes working in the VA and community mental health systems of care. My style is open-minded, straightforward & respectful. I offer resourcefulness and support, sprinkled with humor and the wisdom picked up from guiding people through difficulties over the past 22 years.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Ana-Lisa Davidson, LMHCA, Counselor
Ana-Lisa Davidson
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372  (Online Only)
If I am not available, others in my group practice will be. Email me to see if we would be a good fit :-). Searching for a therapist is the first brave step you can take. My hope is to support you in your journey of healing. We as humans are emotionally bonding creatures, and it is crucial to recognize the emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions of our beings. Let's work together to support you through what you may need!
If I am not available, others in my group practice will be. Email me to see if we would be a good fit :-). Searching for a therapist is the first brave step you can take. My hope is to support you in your journey of healing. We as humans are emotionally bonding creatures, and it is crucial to recognize the emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions of our beings. Let's work together to support you through what you may need!
(253) 563-1883 View (253) 563-1883
Photo of Sig Hamilton, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Sig Hamilton
Counselor, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I have been privileged to support individuals and couples in identifying and overcoming life’s challenges. Such challenges may consist of navigating grief, spirituality, anxiety, depression, divorce, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, post-partum depression, PTSD, and more. Those whom I have been fortunate to support are individuals who range from late teens to seasoned elders. My approach is first to meet you where you are and to support you in the path that you desire to take. In doing so, I welcome and value you.
I have been privileged to support individuals and couples in identifying and overcoming life’s challenges. Such challenges may consist of navigating grief, spirituality, anxiety, depression, divorce, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, post-partum depression, PTSD, and more. Those whom I have been fortunate to support are individuals who range from late teens to seasoned elders. My approach is first to meet you where you are and to support you in the path that you desire to take. In doing so, I welcome and value you.
(425) 906-1940 View (425) 906-1940
Photo of Tamera Gittens, LMHC, Counselor
Tamera Gittens
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Prioritizing mental health today can be so difficult to do today, but is important now more than ever. Along with prioritizing mental health, many of us engage in school, work, relationships, family dynamics, and friendships. After a while, many of these pressures may start to affect us in different ways leading us to experience anxiety, stress, bouts of sadness, irritability, and so much more. I did not even mention any unresolved trauma or feelings that may be experienced on top of everything else! Therapy is a safe place to work through many of these issues, with undeniable positive regard and support.
Prioritizing mental health today can be so difficult to do today, but is important now more than ever. Along with prioritizing mental health, many of us engage in school, work, relationships, family dynamics, and friendships. After a while, many of these pressures may start to affect us in different ways leading us to experience anxiety, stress, bouts of sadness, irritability, and so much more. I did not even mention any unresolved trauma or feelings that may be experienced on top of everything else! Therapy is a safe place to work through many of these issues, with undeniable positive regard and support.
(206) 299-1765 View (206) 299-1765
Photo of Ruby Howes, LSWAIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ruby Howes
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
I am a trauma-informed therapist that strives to create a collaborative relationship to build safety and trust so that you can move towards healing and growth. I help clients by identifying how their past is still affecting them in the present, process difficult and painful memories, and use cognitive approaches to challenge feelings of shame and fixed negative beliefs. In addition, I explore with clients the impact trauma and family dynmaics has on their relationships and teach skills to help them meet their emotional needs with friends, family, and partners.
I am a trauma-informed therapist that strives to create a collaborative relationship to build safety and trust so that you can move towards healing and growth. I help clients by identifying how their past is still affecting them in the present, process difficult and painful memories, and use cognitive approaches to challenge feelings of shame and fixed negative beliefs. In addition, I explore with clients the impact trauma and family dynmaics has on their relationships and teach skills to help them meet their emotional needs with friends, family, and partners.
(253) 766-5997 View (253) 766-5997

See more therapy options for Ruston

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ruston, WA

10+

Average cost per session

$167

Therapists in Ruston, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
93% Stress
86% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
79% Grief
79% Trauma and PTSD
79% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Premera Blue Cross
71% First Choice Health | FCH
57% Aetna

How Therapists in Ruston, WA see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

93% Female
7% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ruston?

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.