Therapists in Clarksburg, WV

Photo of Kristin White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR, CBT-I
Kristin White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR, CBT-I
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Deciding to seek therapy takes courage and is not always an easy thing to do. Sorting through pages of therapist bios when you're already stressed, sad, or confused can feel so overwhelming. Yet here you are - seeking help takes strength & you are strong! Perhaps you need someone in your life who will truly listen without judgement, a person who will give feedback with no strings attached, provide unyielding support, celebrate victories and & help you work through your pain, collaborate with you as a partner to create strategies that work for you - all with a lot of heart, compassion, and some strategically placed laughter.
Deciding to seek therapy takes courage and is not always an easy thing to do. Sorting through pages of therapist bios when you're already stressed, sad, or confused can feel so overwhelming. Yet here you are - seeking help takes strength & you are strong! Perhaps you need someone in your life who will truly listen without judgement, a person who will give feedback with no strings attached, provide unyielding support, celebrate victories and & help you work through your pain, collaborate with you as a partner to create strategies that work for you - all with a lot of heart, compassion, and some strategically placed laughter.
(304) 396-1738 View (304) 396-1738
Photo of Jeremy Wentz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR-T
Jeremy Wentz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR-T
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate openings available. Wait time is less than week. Get scheduled immediately from the website. Now with that out of the way... Hi. I am Jeremy and I am a West Virginia native. Above all, I create an environment that is safe, open- minded, and free of judgement. I hope to make therapy an enjoyable experience, combating the stigma that it has to be hard or dreadful.
Immediate openings available. Wait time is less than week. Get scheduled immediately from the website. Now with that out of the way... Hi. I am Jeremy and I am a West Virginia native. Above all, I create an environment that is safe, open- minded, and free of judgement. I hope to make therapy an enjoyable experience, combating the stigma that it has to be hard or dreadful.
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Photo of Laura Francis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Laura Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in WV and WA with several years of clinical experience supporting teens, adults, families, and veterans through some of life’s toughest transitions. I’m passionate about walking alongside people facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief or loss, major life changes, family stress, and the ripple-effects of trauma. My style is direct, compassionate and down-to-earth with room for humor when it helps you feel at ease.
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in WV and WA with several years of clinical experience supporting teens, adults, families, and veterans through some of life’s toughest transitions. I’m passionate about walking alongside people facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief or loss, major life changes, family stress, and the ripple-effects of trauma. My style is direct, compassionate and down-to-earth with room for humor when it helps you feel at ease.
(304) 758-9648 View (304) 758-9648
Photo of Christina Renzler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Christina Renzler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Clarksburg, WV 26301
I am accepting new adult clients for individual therapy at this time. My hours are Mon-Fri 8am-4pm. I like to create a safe space for you to feel comfortable opening up about the most difficult topics in your life or on your mind; meet you where you are in your healing journey in order to gain an understanding of your stressors, what has been poking those emotional bruises, and help identify the goals you wish to achieve. I'm passionate about helping you identify your current triggers, stressors and conflicts in your life to help you develop healthier coping strategies to improve the quality of your life.
I am accepting new adult clients for individual therapy at this time. My hours are Mon-Fri 8am-4pm. I like to create a safe space for you to feel comfortable opening up about the most difficult topics in your life or on your mind; meet you where you are in your healing journey in order to gain an understanding of your stressors, what has been poking those emotional bruises, and help identify the goals you wish to achieve. I'm passionate about helping you identify your current triggers, stressors and conflicts in your life to help you develop healthier coping strategies to improve the quality of your life.
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Photo of Brightside Health - Brightside Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(415) 940-7386 View (415) 940-7386
Photo of Bartley Deane Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCT-SP, ADHD-PT, TLHT
Bartley Deane Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCT-SP, ADHD-PT, TLHT
Online Only
Life brings challenges that can leave you feeling stressed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward. As a cognitive behavioral therapist, I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions while learning practical tools to create meaningful change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, my goal is to help you feel empowered, understood, and equipped to move toward the life you want.
Life brings challenges that can leave you feeling stressed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward. As a cognitive behavioral therapist, I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions while learning practical tools to create meaningful change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, my goal is to help you feel empowered, understood, and equipped to move toward the life you want.
(681) 228-6188 View (681) 228-6188
Photo of Donna Murray, Counselor, LPCC-S
Donna Murray
Counselor, LPCC-S
Online Only
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
(304) 403-7450 View (304) 403-7450
Photo of Sina King, Counselor, MS, LPC, RDN
Sina King
Counselor, MS, LPC, RDN
1 Endorsed
Clarksburg, WV 26301
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Sina, a neurodivergent therapist and registered dietitian/nutritionist. I work with folks identifying as (or exploring) ADHD, autistic, genderqueer, and more. I also work with folks experiencing eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. We know these complex experiences can also come with anxiety, depression, OCD, complex trauma, etc. so if you or someone you know is looking for support in these areas, I’d love to hear from you. I use a relational, neurodivergent-affirming, and weight-inclusive approach to my work with clients, aligning with anti-oppressive and anti-diet frameworks.
I’m Sina, a neurodivergent therapist and registered dietitian/nutritionist. I work with folks identifying as (or exploring) ADHD, autistic, genderqueer, and more. I also work with folks experiencing eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. We know these complex experiences can also come with anxiety, depression, OCD, complex trauma, etc. so if you or someone you know is looking for support in these areas, I’d love to hear from you. I use a relational, neurodivergent-affirming, and weight-inclusive approach to my work with clients, aligning with anti-oppressive and anti-diet frameworks.
(304) 902-8397 View (304) 902-8397
Photo of Tori Garnes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Tori Garnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
I see clients as the experts in their lives and strive to deeply understand their experience to better assist them in meeting their goals. I have confidence in every person’s capacity for growth and healing when provided with a safe environment, support, and the necessary resources. My role as a therapist is to be a compassionate witness to your story, meeting you where you are while creating a warm and nonjudgmental space. It is truly a privilege to walk alongside clients on their unique journeys.
I see clients as the experts in their lives and strive to deeply understand their experience to better assist them in meeting their goals. I have confidence in every person’s capacity for growth and healing when provided with a safe environment, support, and the necessary resources. My role as a therapist is to be a compassionate witness to your story, meeting you where you are while creating a warm and nonjudgmental space. It is truly a privilege to walk alongside clients on their unique journeys.
(304) 407-3541 View (304) 407-3541
Photo of Traci Kramer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Traci Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Traci! Welcome — If you’ve found your way here, chances are you’re carrying more than your share of life’s weight. Maybe it began in childhood, with experiences that left deep marks, or maybe you’re struggling with PTSD, grief, stress, relationships, depression, anxiety, or simply the heavy demands of everyday life. Wherever you are, I want you to know: you don’t have to carry it alone. My specialty is helping people heal from childhood trauma, but therapy with me isn’t one-size-fits-all. My approach is down-to-earth and easy to understand—real conversations, practical tools, and evidence-based methods that work.
Hi there, I'm Traci! Welcome — If you’ve found your way here, chances are you’re carrying more than your share of life’s weight. Maybe it began in childhood, with experiences that left deep marks, or maybe you’re struggling with PTSD, grief, stress, relationships, depression, anxiety, or simply the heavy demands of everyday life. Wherever you are, I want you to know: you don’t have to carry it alone. My specialty is helping people heal from childhood trauma, but therapy with me isn’t one-size-fits-all. My approach is down-to-earth and easy to understand—real conversations, practical tools, and evidence-based methods that work.
(304) 458-6041 View (304) 458-6041
Photo of Emily Reel - Emily Reel Professional Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , AADC-S, MAC, SAP
Emily Reel Professional Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , AADC-S, MAC, SAP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Change can be difficult, seem impossible, and leave a person feeling overwhelmed, powerless, and destined to stay stuck. I believe that change is achievable, and each person can become the person he/she wants to be in life. The process of change is unique for each person, and it is my goal to empower and encourage each person to identify and harness personal strengths while overcoming problematic thoughts and behaviors. Change is challenging but possible. I would like to help you achieve your change.
Change can be difficult, seem impossible, and leave a person feeling overwhelmed, powerless, and destined to stay stuck. I believe that change is achievable, and each person can become the person he/she wants to be in life. The process of change is unique for each person, and it is my goal to empower and encourage each person to identify and harness personal strengths while overcoming problematic thoughts and behaviors. Change is challenging but possible. I would like to help you achieve your change.
(304) 692-5779 View (304) 692-5779
Photo of Jessica N Lynch, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Jessica N Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Online Only
Life can be difficult and sometimes we need a little guidance along the way. Whether you are dealing with daily life challenges, relationship issues, or have experienced trauma that is preventing you from moving forward, we can work together to get you back on the path to wellness. Just as every individual is unique, so is their story and journey. That's why I offer a personalized approach for each person I work with.
Life can be difficult and sometimes we need a little guidance along the way. Whether you are dealing with daily life challenges, relationship issues, or have experienced trauma that is preventing you from moving forward, we can work together to get you back on the path to wellness. Just as every individual is unique, so is their story and journey. That's why I offer a personalized approach for each person I work with.
(304) 924-4593 View (304) 924-4593
Photo of Kenneth Dale Nice III, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kenneth Dale Nice III
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I am a licensed social worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from West Virginia University and over 25 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and veterans. Throughout my career, I have helped individuals navigate life transitions, trauma, and a wide range of personal challenges.
I am a licensed social worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from West Virginia University and over 25 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and veterans. Throughout my career, I have helped individuals navigate life transitions, trauma, and a wide range of personal challenges.
(304) 467-4212 View (304) 467-4212
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(304) 944-3957 View (304) 944-3957
Photo of Renee Bair - Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor
Serves Area
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(304) 449-5274 View (304) 449-5274
Photo of Brandi Asterino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CTT
Brandi Asterino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CTT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
No waitlist for West Virginia (WV) residents! You don’t have to accept that you’re feeling misunderstood, isolated, stuck, angry, sad, or anxious. Pain is natural, but struggle and suffering are what happens when we don’t act. My goal is to gently approach the hurdle(s) that are keeping you from fulfilling a wholesome and authentic life. I understand that throughout life, changes and events may cause emotional conflict, confusion, and feel unbearable. I believe strongly that people are very resilient, and I’m passionate about assisting individuals find their inner strength to overcome.
No waitlist for West Virginia (WV) residents! You don’t have to accept that you’re feeling misunderstood, isolated, stuck, angry, sad, or anxious. Pain is natural, but struggle and suffering are what happens when we don’t act. My goal is to gently approach the hurdle(s) that are keeping you from fulfilling a wholesome and authentic life. I understand that throughout life, changes and events may cause emotional conflict, confusion, and feel unbearable. I believe strongly that people are very resilient, and I’m passionate about assisting individuals find their inner strength to overcome.
(304) 396-7401 View (304) 396-7401
Photo of Catherine Coffield - A Positive Approach To Life LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-WV, LSW -WV, CA-LPCC, NC-LCMH, FL-TLHT
A Positive Approach To Life LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-WV, LSW -WV, CA-LPCC, NC-LCMH, FL-TLHT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
With over two decades of experience as Licensed Professional Counselor, I am licensed in WV, California, North Carolina and Florida. I have assisted individuals and families facing a broad spectrum of challenges. These include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, self-harm, parenting difficulties, life obstacles, and lack of motivation. I have also worked extensively with individuals who have endured physical trauma or emotional abuse. As a specialized EMDR therapist in trauma, I employ various therapeutic approaches and proven techniques to support my clients effectively. These encompass CBT, DBT, EMDR...
With over two decades of experience as Licensed Professional Counselor, I am licensed in WV, California, North Carolina and Florida. I have assisted individuals and families facing a broad spectrum of challenges. These include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, self-harm, parenting difficulties, life obstacles, and lack of motivation. I have also worked extensively with individuals who have endured physical trauma or emotional abuse. As a specialized EMDR therapist in trauma, I employ various therapeutic approaches and proven techniques to support my clients effectively. These encompass CBT, DBT, EMDR...
(304) 944-3692 View (304) 944-3692
Photo of Dr. Melisa M Carrico, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Dr. Melisa M Carrico
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Morgantown’s Only Doctorate-Level Integrative Psychotherapy Practice. Healing isn’t just about talking—it’s about rewiring your nervous system, releasing stored trauma, and breaking free from emotional patterns that keep you stuck. We specialize in trauma recovery, stress management, life transitions, holistic wellness, and deep emotional healing. Our sessions incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, feeling disconnected, or seeking a profound shift, we provide a safe, compassionate space to heal and grow.
Morgantown’s Only Doctorate-Level Integrative Psychotherapy Practice. Healing isn’t just about talking—it’s about rewiring your nervous system, releasing stored trauma, and breaking free from emotional patterns that keep you stuck. We specialize in trauma recovery, stress management, life transitions, holistic wellness, and deep emotional healing. Our sessions incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, feeling disconnected, or seeking a profound shift, we provide a safe, compassionate space to heal and grow.
(304) 318-4881 View (304) 318-4881
Photo of Michael Hugh Rucker II - Rucker Therapy Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Rucker Therapy Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Serves Area
Michael Rucker is a clinically trained marriage and family therapist and has been in practice for over a decade in Charleston, WV and Morgantown, WV. He has worked with a broad population of clients, including individuals, couples, families, children, teenagers, and groups. His passion and life experiences has led to an interest and specialization with a myriad of topic areas that he excels with, including but not limited to infidelity, infertility, mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, learning disabilities, addiction, marital issues, and divorce adjustment.
Michael Rucker is a clinically trained marriage and family therapist and has been in practice for over a decade in Charleston, WV and Morgantown, WV. He has worked with a broad population of clients, including individuals, couples, families, children, teenagers, and groups. His passion and life experiences has led to an interest and specialization with a myriad of topic areas that he excels with, including but not limited to infidelity, infertility, mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, learning disabilities, addiction, marital issues, and divorce adjustment.
(681) 229-4032 View (681) 229-4032
Photo of Samantha Rahall, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Rahall
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Maybe you're feeling anxious, unfocused, overwhelmed, or just stuck—in your head or in life. You might be longing for more calm, clarity, or a deeper sense of control. Wanting something to shift is a powerful first step, and therapy can help you find your way forward.
Maybe you're feeling anxious, unfocused, overwhelmed, or just stuck—in your head or in life. You might be longing for more calm, clarity, or a deeper sense of control. Wanting something to shift is a powerful first step, and therapy can help you find your way forward.
(304) 554-2292 View (304) 554-2292

See more therapy options for Clarksburg

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Clarksburg, WV

20+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Clarksburg, WV who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Trauma and PTSD
71% Grief
71% Self Esteem
71% Stress
68% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Other
77% Highmark

How Therapists in Clarksburg, WV see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Clarksburg?

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.