Therapists in Seattle, WA

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Photo of Lauren E. Edmonds, MS, LMHCA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren E. Edmonds
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! Life can sometimes feel like a wild ride, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I am dedicated to helping you find clarity, balance, and emotional well-being amidst life’s challenges. I am here to walk alongside you on your path toward healing and growth. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, utilizing evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling and balanced life, reach out today, and let’s begin this transformative journey.
Welcome! Life can sometimes feel like a wild ride, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I am dedicated to helping you find clarity, balance, and emotional well-being amidst life’s challenges. I am here to walk alongside you on your path toward healing and growth. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, utilizing evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling and balanced life, reach out today, and let’s begin this transformative journey.
(509) 769-3728 View (509) 769-3728
Photo of Maki Park, LMHCA, Counselor
Maki Park
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
Waitlist for new clients
Society, family, culture, and other systems often send us mixed messages about how we should move in the world, creating dissonance and internal conflict. At times, we may lose sight of what we want for ourselves in the midst of competing voices and priorities that pull for our attention. I strive to create a safe space and work collaboratively with clients to step into the driver’s seat in discovering and reaching their own goals. Through shared exploration, we can clarify your understanding of yourself, your identity, and your story, and foster greater self-compassion and confidence to carry you through life's challenges.
Society, family, culture, and other systems often send us mixed messages about how we should move in the world, creating dissonance and internal conflict. At times, we may lose sight of what we want for ourselves in the midst of competing voices and priorities that pull for our attention. I strive to create a safe space and work collaboratively with clients to step into the driver’s seat in discovering and reaching their own goals. Through shared exploration, we can clarify your understanding of yourself, your identity, and your story, and foster greater self-compassion and confidence to carry you through life's challenges.
(206) 594-4269 View (206) 594-4269
Photo of Ying Yu, MS, LMHC, CN, Counselor
Ying Yu
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ying works with individuals, couples and families, offering trauma-informed ways to heal old wounds and practical tools for processing triggers in the present for healthier being and relating. She strives for compassionate listening, transparency, attunement, and accountability in her practice, honoring her clients' own wisdom, truth, and ways of knowing. She believes in understanding every person holistically, in mind-body-spirit and in the context of personal/generational/cultural/societal pressures, and working collaboratively when needed, to provide the best possible care. Virtual appointments only at this time.
Ying works with individuals, couples and families, offering trauma-informed ways to heal old wounds and practical tools for processing triggers in the present for healthier being and relating. She strives for compassionate listening, transparency, attunement, and accountability in her practice, honoring her clients' own wisdom, truth, and ways of knowing. She believes in understanding every person holistically, in mind-body-spirit and in the context of personal/generational/cultural/societal pressures, and working collaboratively when needed, to provide the best possible care. Virtual appointments only at this time.
(206) 590-8249 View (206) 590-8249
Photo of John Maulding, SUDP, LMHCA
John Maulding
Mental Health Counselor Associate, SUDP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98134
Accepting New Clients! (Updated 1/16/24). People who care about you say that you need help - and you are worried they might be right. You want to be free from intrusive, negative thoughts or leaning on substances. You want your life to be more balanced. I am looking forward to hearing your story and learning what happened to you. I can help you move in the direction of your goals.
Accepting New Clients! (Updated 1/16/24). People who care about you say that you need help - and you are worried they might be right. You want to be free from intrusive, negative thoughts or leaning on substances. You want your life to be more balanced. I am looking forward to hearing your story and learning what happened to you. I can help you move in the direction of your goals.
(206) 207-4795 View (206) 207-4795
Photo of James Murray, MA, MFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
I specialize in treating couples and individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship instability, life changes and conflict resolution. I've worked extensively with marriages in crises, forming alliances with highly conflicted couples and providing support during high impact times/affair recovery. I've also helped teens and adolescents navigate everything from social pressures to healthy relationships with screens. My experience working in the school system gives me expertise in the 504/IEP assessment process. I've also worked with athletes/coaches/high stress careers on performance improvement and stress management.
I specialize in treating couples and individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship instability, life changes and conflict resolution. I've worked extensively with marriages in crises, forming alliances with highly conflicted couples and providing support during high impact times/affair recovery. I've also helped teens and adolescents navigate everything from social pressures to healthy relationships with screens. My experience working in the school system gives me expertise in the 504/IEP assessment process. I've also worked with athletes/coaches/high stress careers on performance improvement and stress management.
(805) 585-5953 View (805) 585-5953
Photo of Marie Nelson, LMHC, Counselor
Marie Nelson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Marie is an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor working with adults contending with trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties. She has also worked extensively with individuals recovering from addiction as well as loved ones who are affected by addiction. Marie has worked in the community mental health environment, private practice and substance abuse treatment centers.
Marie is an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor working with adults contending with trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties. She has also worked extensively with individuals recovering from addiction as well as loved ones who are affected by addiction. Marie has worked in the community mental health environment, private practice and substance abuse treatment centers.
(206) 222-5291 View (206) 222-5291
Photo of Laura Zucker - Laura Zucker Counseling, LICSW, CMHS, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Zucker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I currently have had to pause on accepting new patients. I will update my profile when that changes. Everyone experiences difficult times in their lives. Whether it's struggling with a difficult relationship, work or school, anxiety, depression, or problems in your family or social life, you're making an effort now to change. We will work together on ways to resolve the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that have prevented you from being who you want and attaining the things in life you really want for yourself. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential setting where we determine what your therapy needs are and how to achieve them.
I currently have had to pause on accepting new patients. I will update my profile when that changes. Everyone experiences difficult times in their lives. Whether it's struggling with a difficult relationship, work or school, anxiety, depression, or problems in your family or social life, you're making an effort now to change. We will work together on ways to resolve the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that have prevented you from being who you want and attaining the things in life you really want for yourself. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential setting where we determine what your therapy needs are and how to achieve them.
(206) 535-1755 View (206) 535-1755
Photo of Carrie Hill - Carrie Hill, EMDR Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Hill, EMDR Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Online Only
It’s a hard thing to be a highly sensitive person, and even more so when you’re also balancing the challenges of being a high-achieving woman. It’s all too common that we doubt ourselves or face mental health struggles, navigating the space between feeling both “too much” and “not enough”. Over the years of work that I’ve done, I’ve come to realize that the ease with which we navigate this space is largely determined by our ability to embrace and celebrate our strengths while simultaneously accepting and holding the parts of ourselves that we might not appreciate so much with non-judgment and self-compassion.
It’s a hard thing to be a highly sensitive person, and even more so when you’re also balancing the challenges of being a high-achieving woman. It’s all too common that we doubt ourselves or face mental health struggles, navigating the space between feeling both “too much” and “not enough”. Over the years of work that I’ve done, I’ve come to realize that the ease with which we navigate this space is largely determined by our ability to embrace and celebrate our strengths while simultaneously accepting and holding the parts of ourselves that we might not appreciate so much with non-judgment and self-compassion.
(425) 371-4816 View (425) 371-4816
Photo of Bailey D S Cheshire, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bailey D S Cheshire
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I know that reaching out for therapy can be so intimidating, especially with issues related to sexuality. You may be looking to step into a more authentic versions of yourself or you may be dealing with relationship struggles. You may have felt stuck for some time or are just beginning to question what doesn't feel right. Together, we can embrace the challenges of life's struggles and work towards your dreams and goals. I am an identity affirming therapist who especially loves working with people who are queer, BIPOC, neurodivergent, disabled, or somehow 'othered' by society.
I know that reaching out for therapy can be so intimidating, especially with issues related to sexuality. You may be looking to step into a more authentic versions of yourself or you may be dealing with relationship struggles. You may have felt stuck for some time or are just beginning to question what doesn't feel right. Together, we can embrace the challenges of life's struggles and work towards your dreams and goals. I am an identity affirming therapist who especially loves working with people who are queer, BIPOC, neurodivergent, disabled, or somehow 'othered' by society.
(206) 752-3683 View (206) 752-3683
Photo of Jess G. Mason - Touchstone Counseling Alliance, PLLC, LMHC, CHPN, EOLD, CCTP-II, CAGCS, Counselor
Touchstone Counseling Alliance, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CHPN, EOLD, CCTP-II, CAGCS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I bring compassion, devotion, curiosity, and humor, to my counseling practice. I adore people and love cultivating therapeutic relationships that foster growth and change. I come to the work with an extensive background in complex trauma, grief, and end of life transitions. As a therapist, I work to create a gentle and dynamic environment that with love, effort, and time, will mend and build.
I bring compassion, devotion, curiosity, and humor, to my counseling practice. I adore people and love cultivating therapeutic relationships that foster growth and change. I come to the work with an extensive background in complex trauma, grief, and end of life transitions. As a therapist, I work to create a gentle and dynamic environment that with love, effort, and time, will mend and build.
(206) 594-3669 View (206) 594-3669
Photo of Jennifer Jahahn, MA, LMHC, 200YTT
Jennifer Jahahn
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, 200YTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
You may be feeling that something is off- something doesn't feel quite "right" to you. Perhaps you find yourself overwhelmed by your emotions, unsure how to manage them- feeling they are ruling your life. Or, you feel nothing at all, just numbness. Perhaps you swing between both extremes. Something within you may feel anxious, depressed, on edge-you might be unsure about what you are feeling entirely, and yet, your body seems to "know." You've heard your intuition whispering to you, but have been afraid to listen and trust what its communicating. You want to connect with your truest, most authentic Self and live the life you want.
You may be feeling that something is off- something doesn't feel quite "right" to you. Perhaps you find yourself overwhelmed by your emotions, unsure how to manage them- feeling they are ruling your life. Or, you feel nothing at all, just numbness. Perhaps you swing between both extremes. Something within you may feel anxious, depressed, on edge-you might be unsure about what you are feeling entirely, and yet, your body seems to "know." You've heard your intuition whispering to you, but have been afraid to listen and trust what its communicating. You want to connect with your truest, most authentic Self and live the life you want.
(206) 237-5580 View (206) 237-5580
Photo of Stephanie Gray, MSW, LICSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am known for my unapologetically fierce and compassionate anti-stigma approach and take pride in my east coast empathy, humor, and drive. I have worked in Washington on the front lines in mental health throughout the pandemic. I’m thrilled to incorporate my west coast love of the great outdoors, inclusivity, mindfulness, and culture into my practice for a well-rounded and empowering client experience. I deeply believe in the power of therapy, vulnerability, and validation. I provide safe space where you may speak your truth without fear, expect to be truly heard and seen, and know that you are valued.
I am known for my unapologetically fierce and compassionate anti-stigma approach and take pride in my east coast empathy, humor, and drive. I have worked in Washington on the front lines in mental health throughout the pandemic. I’m thrilled to incorporate my west coast love of the great outdoors, inclusivity, mindfulness, and culture into my practice for a well-rounded and empowering client experience. I deeply believe in the power of therapy, vulnerability, and validation. I provide safe space where you may speak your truth without fear, expect to be truly heard and seen, and know that you are valued.
(206) 278-3324 View (206) 278-3324
Photo of Dr. Jordan P Shannon, NCC, LPC Intern
Dr. Jordan P Shannon
LPC Intern, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Not accepting new clients
I believe both preventive efforts of distress and current distress can be worked through the collaborative work of the counseling relationship. The center of my practice is to hold those moments of challenge, distress, anxiety and pain through means of humanistic engagement. My hope is that counseling encourages you to feel self-worth, self-esteem and strength as you navigate this point of your life journey.”
I believe both preventive efforts of distress and current distress can be worked through the collaborative work of the counseling relationship. The center of my practice is to hold those moments of challenge, distress, anxiety and pain through means of humanistic engagement. My hope is that counseling encourages you to feel self-worth, self-esteem and strength as you navigate this point of your life journey.”
(206) 350-8841 View (206) 350-8841
Photo of Jenna Manglallan-Yang, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenna Manglallan-Yang
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Online Only
We all possess the tools to lead a life of personal freedom and empowerment. Life’s challenges are often inevitable, but we can develop the confidence and skills to work through them. My goal is to foster a safe and trusting environment filled with unconditional support when you bring your concerns into the therapeutic space. Individuals can expect self-exploration in a range of topics related to major life transitions, self-esteem, and relationships.
We all possess the tools to lead a life of personal freedom and empowerment. Life’s challenges are often inevitable, but we can develop the confidence and skills to work through them. My goal is to foster a safe and trusting environment filled with unconditional support when you bring your concerns into the therapeutic space. Individuals can expect self-exploration in a range of topics related to major life transitions, self-esteem, and relationships.
(253) 234-7473 View (253) 234-7473
Photo of Tatiana Popov, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tatiana Popov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS! My goal as a therapist is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. I work to provide a safe and nurturing enviornment where you can receive support, guidance & feedback as I help guide you towards positive change. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling &meaningful life.
I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS! My goal as a therapist is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. I work to provide a safe and nurturing enviornment where you can receive support, guidance & feedback as I help guide you towards positive change. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling &meaningful life.
(415) 582-4536 View (415) 582-4536
Photo of Richard Meeks, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Richard Meeks
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
Draw upon your courage to greet the tasks of work, friendship, and intimacy. Overcome the slings and arrows of life's inevitable misfortune and suffering that is set in the snares of Fear, Anger, and Despair. Encouragement fosters hopeful striving and nourishes meaningful life. Courage grows through relationship. I bring the wisdom of encouragement through authenticity, understanding, and compassion born from my lifetime of study, personal experience, and professional practice.
Draw upon your courage to greet the tasks of work, friendship, and intimacy. Overcome the slings and arrows of life's inevitable misfortune and suffering that is set in the snares of Fear, Anger, and Despair. Encouragement fosters hopeful striving and nourishes meaningful life. Courage grows through relationship. I bring the wisdom of encouragement through authenticity, understanding, and compassion born from my lifetime of study, personal experience, and professional practice.
(206) 489-3763 View (206) 489-3763
Photo of Weston C Pew, LMHC, Counselor
Weston C Pew
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life has a way of knocking us off balance when we least expect it. Just when you think you’re on solid ground, everything can suddenly shift, leaving you feeling disoriented and overwhelmed. Soon, fear, anxiety, and despair take hold and throw you deeper into the shadows. Given the challenges at hand, old coping mechanisms fall short, and what once felt like strengths now seem inadequate. You feel trapped, as if you are at the mercy of external forces you have little control over. Sometimes, you wonder if you’re destined to struggle this way forever.
Life has a way of knocking us off balance when we least expect it. Just when you think you’re on solid ground, everything can suddenly shift, leaving you feeling disoriented and overwhelmed. Soon, fear, anxiety, and despair take hold and throw you deeper into the shadows. Given the challenges at hand, old coping mechanisms fall short, and what once felt like strengths now seem inadequate. You feel trapped, as if you are at the mercy of external forces you have little control over. Sometimes, you wonder if you’re destined to struggle this way forever.
(206) 208-7279 View (206) 208-7279
Photo of Brian Kimmel - Brian Kimmel Guidance Center, MA, LMHC, R-DMT, MHP, Counselor
Brian Kimmel Guidance Center
Counselor, MA, LMHC, R-DMT, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Brian Kimmel Guidance Center offers a holistic approach to psychological healing and personal growth, combining elements of talk therapy with mindfulness and body-centered awareness practices. Gentle but powerful, our unique form of therapy can help you gain crucial insight, experience new ways of being, and cultivate lasting change.
Brian Kimmel Guidance Center offers a holistic approach to psychological healing and personal growth, combining elements of talk therapy with mindfulness and body-centered awareness practices. Gentle but powerful, our unique form of therapy can help you gain crucial insight, experience new ways of being, and cultivate lasting change.
(425) 599-4491 View (425) 599-4491
Photo of Marilyn Sueirro, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Marilyn Sueirro
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I approach the counseling process holistically and aim to support you in creating a life that matches your ideals. In our work together, my hope is that you will grow to identify what is, and what is not working; and shift your experience... your mindset, your body awareness, and behaviors. A primary theme I introduce is awareness; as we grow our ability to be aware of ourselves, we have more choices in how we respond to or internalize what is happening around us. Knowing that every act is an act of self-definition, this process will help you have more intentional control in defining how your life unfolds.
I approach the counseling process holistically and aim to support you in creating a life that matches your ideals. In our work together, my hope is that you will grow to identify what is, and what is not working; and shift your experience... your mindset, your body awareness, and behaviors. A primary theme I introduce is awareness; as we grow our ability to be aware of ourselves, we have more choices in how we respond to or internalize what is happening around us. Knowing that every act is an act of self-definition, this process will help you have more intentional control in defining how your life unfolds.
(206) 279-1863 View (206) 279-1863
Photo of Melina Joy Di Stefano, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melina Joy Di Stefano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Are you struggling to feel connected - to yourself, to your values, to others? Having a hard time letting go of old stories? I believe there are powerful forces that disconnect us from our truth - the forces of trauma, oppression, diet-culture, even our old ways of survival. In our work together we will center reconnection - to yourself, to your body and the wisdom contained within. I believe our relationships are strengthened when we commit to building trust in ourselves. We'll work together to identify patterns, your strengths and values and explore the impacts of culture, identity and family of origin.
Are you struggling to feel connected - to yourself, to your values, to others? Having a hard time letting go of old stories? I believe there are powerful forces that disconnect us from our truth - the forces of trauma, oppression, diet-culture, even our old ways of survival. In our work together we will center reconnection - to yourself, to your body and the wisdom contained within. I believe our relationships are strengthened when we commit to building trust in ourselves. We'll work together to identify patterns, your strengths and values and explore the impacts of culture, identity and family of origin.
(206) 279-4991 View (206) 279-4991
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Seattle, WA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Premera Blue Cross
63% Aetna
55% Regence

How Therapists in Seattle, WA see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Seattle?

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.