Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Soft Moon Mental Health & Wellness, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Soft Moon Mental Health & Wellness
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, BS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
You deserve to feel in alignment with your values and in full self-acceptance of who you truly are. Soft Moon Mental Health and Wellness supports you on your journey of self growth by providing a nurturing space for you to sit with the dark parts of your story. Whether you want to work on body image and self esteem, relationship health, grief and loss, neurodivergent support or trauma from your childhood, Soft Moon can help you feel validated and gently challenged to move towards the inner peace you yearn for.
You deserve to feel in alignment with your values and in full self-acceptance of who you truly are. Soft Moon Mental Health and Wellness supports you on your journey of self growth by providing a nurturing space for you to sit with the dark parts of your story. Whether you want to work on body image and self esteem, relationship health, grief and loss, neurodivergent support or trauma from your childhood, Soft Moon can help you feel validated and gently challenged to move towards the inner peace you yearn for.
(503) 850-2955 View (503) 850-2955
Photo of Alyssa (Aleesa) Nagel-Wild, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Alyssa (Aleesa) Nagel-Wild
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
(971) 298-8069 View (971) 298-8069
Photo of Marybeth Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Marybeth Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I am honored to support you in your professional development as you seek to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Oregon.
I am honored to support you in your professional development as you seek to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Oregon.
(503) 749-9063 View (503) 749-9063
Photo of Jessica Barnese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jessica Barnese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCI, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Welcome:). I offer an embodied experience of psychotherapy to help people expand their awareness and sense of connection. My work draws mainly from my expertise of The Hakomi Method of Mindful, Somatic Psychotherapy. In my sessions, I guide you to slow down and pay attention to deeper layers of yourself. With mindfulness, we uncover emotions, sensations and core beliefs that shape how you experience yourself and the world. Change happens as we work together to sort out old patterns and create new understandings to bring forward an updated life perspective from the most authentic, integrated version of who you are.
Welcome:). I offer an embodied experience of psychotherapy to help people expand their awareness and sense of connection. My work draws mainly from my expertise of The Hakomi Method of Mindful, Somatic Psychotherapy. In my sessions, I guide you to slow down and pay attention to deeper layers of yourself. With mindfulness, we uncover emotions, sensations and core beliefs that shape how you experience yourself and the world. Change happens as we work together to sort out old patterns and create new understandings to bring forward an updated life perspective from the most authentic, integrated version of who you are.
(503) 765-6785 View (503) 765-6785
Photo of Nikki Humes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Nikki Humes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Clients typically reach out to me when some area of their life is not working well. This could be a new instance of something not working well, or it’s possible that something hasn’t been working well for a very long time. It could be a behavior, a relationship, a job, an attitude, a way of thinking or feeling, or it could be that the ways you used to cope are no longer working or serving you anymore. It’s a painful place to be when the old way doesn’t work anymore but you don’t yet know a new way. Therapy can be a powerful place to learn new tools for engaging in life and relationships that serve you and those around you better.
Clients typically reach out to me when some area of their life is not working well. This could be a new instance of something not working well, or it’s possible that something hasn’t been working well for a very long time. It could be a behavior, a relationship, a job, an attitude, a way of thinking or feeling, or it could be that the ways you used to cope are no longer working or serving you anymore. It’s a painful place to be when the old way doesn’t work anymore but you don’t yet know a new way. Therapy can be a powerful place to learn new tools for engaging in life and relationships that serve you and those around you better.
(503) 300-2907 View (503) 300-2907
Photo of Han Tran, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Han Tran
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227  (Online Only)
Do you tend to be self-critical, with an internal dialogue that is harsh or judgmental? If so, you may also be struggling with feelings of shame, “not good enough”, and unworthiness. These experiences are painful and can really hold you back from living a more fulfilling life. You may have had these thoughts and feelings for a long time, learned from past traumatic experiences or an unsupportive environment you grew up in. These thoughts and feelings contribute to depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship difficulties, and other physical and mental health problems. And they can be difficult to overcome.
Do you tend to be self-critical, with an internal dialogue that is harsh or judgmental? If so, you may also be struggling with feelings of shame, “not good enough”, and unworthiness. These experiences are painful and can really hold you back from living a more fulfilling life. You may have had these thoughts and feelings for a long time, learned from past traumatic experiences or an unsupportive environment you grew up in. These thoughts and feelings contribute to depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship difficulties, and other physical and mental health problems. And they can be difficult to overcome.
(971) 252-7199 View (971) 252-7199
Photo of Ryan Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Ryan Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
Are you ready to explore a new path and navigate life’s challenges successfully? You can transform and become truly authentic. As your guide, I will spark your curiosity and ignite motivation. I will actively listen, offer empathetic and compassionate feedback, and encourage self-discovery through introspection. On this path you will develop a growth mindset, truly believing that you can become better and improve with time and practice. As you begin to live the life you want to live you will start embracing challenges. As you start to harness the power of your mind, you’ll begin to get the results you want and move towards success.
Are you ready to explore a new path and navigate life’s challenges successfully? You can transform and become truly authentic. As your guide, I will spark your curiosity and ignite motivation. I will actively listen, offer empathetic and compassionate feedback, and encourage self-discovery through introspection. On this path you will develop a growth mindset, truly believing that you can become better and improve with time and practice. As you begin to live the life you want to live you will start embracing challenges. As you start to harness the power of your mind, you’ll begin to get the results you want and move towards success.
(971) 290-1067 View (971) 290-1067
Photo of Manola Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Manola Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual therapy for people who are feeling stuck and need support understanding how to get through a tough time. Many people benefit from an outside perspective for navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or dealing with family conflict and other important relationships. Often people struggle with conflicting needs as they evaluate their lives and relationships. When life feels out of control, I can provide compassionate guidance for gaining self-awareness and building confidence. Individuals can learn healthy communication, boundaries, and effective coping tools. Therapy can bring calm to the chaos.
I provide individual therapy for people who are feeling stuck and need support understanding how to get through a tough time. Many people benefit from an outside perspective for navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or dealing with family conflict and other important relationships. Often people struggle with conflicting needs as they evaluate their lives and relationships. When life feels out of control, I can provide compassionate guidance for gaining self-awareness and building confidence. Individuals can learn healthy communication, boundaries, and effective coping tools. Therapy can bring calm to the chaos.
(503) 782-5080 View (503) 782-5080
Photo of Nadejda Razi - Robertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Nadejda Razi - Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97296  (Online Only)
New Clients Welcome! Short-term, solution-focused coaching and psychotherapy. After nearly 20 years of providing therapeutic services in a wide range of settings, my clients have taught me that transformation and change can happen...even in a single-session! I love working with people who are striving to actualize their vision for fulfillment in all aspects of their lives. Our work together will likely include both levity and depth, will offer you tools for re-alignment and reconnection with your "authentic self," & will support the change you are looking for in your precious life!
New Clients Welcome! Short-term, solution-focused coaching and psychotherapy. After nearly 20 years of providing therapeutic services in a wide range of settings, my clients have taught me that transformation and change can happen...even in a single-session! I love working with people who are striving to actualize their vision for fulfillment in all aspects of their lives. Our work together will likely include both levity and depth, will offer you tools for re-alignment and reconnection with your "authentic self," & will support the change you are looking for in your precious life!
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Photo of Michelle Craig Lpc Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Michelle Craig Lpc Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Life, relationships, even moments, can be hard. It is often difficult to talk about what is going on inside, to find footing when it seems your life is crumbling. I will hold space for you, all yours, a hard thing to find in real life, and provide an opportunity for you to connect more deeply with yourself, heal and recover. We will work collaboratively to develop a healthier, happier you. This creates a natural domino effect into your life. You will learn skills, insight, see the negative dynamics that effect you consciously and unconsciously. This allows you to change, to integrate all the hurt pieces of you into a healthy whole.
Life, relationships, even moments, can be hard. It is often difficult to talk about what is going on inside, to find footing when it seems your life is crumbling. I will hold space for you, all yours, a hard thing to find in real life, and provide an opportunity for you to connect more deeply with yourself, heal and recover. We will work collaboratively to develop a healthier, happier you. This creates a natural domino effect into your life. You will learn skills, insight, see the negative dynamics that effect you consciously and unconsciously. This allows you to change, to integrate all the hurt pieces of you into a healthy whole.
(503) 832-5413 View (503) 832-5413
Photo of Kimber Gunter, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Kimber Gunter
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
It is my belief that every individual has the ability to reach and maintain their desired state of being through the counseling process. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve self-awareness, and acceptance while providing a safe space for exploration, processing, and implementation of change to occur. My focus is working with people of the LGBTQIA+ community, and the issues that present with being in a marginalized community. Are you living with depression, anxiety, lack or self-worth and or value? If you feel like I may be the right fit for you, let's take the next step and meet for our consultation.
It is my belief that every individual has the ability to reach and maintain their desired state of being through the counseling process. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve self-awareness, and acceptance while providing a safe space for exploration, processing, and implementation of change to occur. My focus is working with people of the LGBTQIA+ community, and the issues that present with being in a marginalized community. Are you living with depression, anxiety, lack or self-worth and or value? If you feel like I may be the right fit for you, let's take the next step and meet for our consultation.
(503) 479-4923 View (503) 479-4923
Photo of Andrea J. Wright Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Andrea J. Wright Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
(503) 405-4321 View (503) 405-4321
Photo of Stephen Boyd, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Stephen Boyd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
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Photo of Kelly T Cary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kelly T Cary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for exploring your options for support. People who seek out therapy want something in their lives to change or are adjusting to a change that they never wanted. Therapy can be incredibly helpful and healing. Therapy can also be about getting to know yourself and supporting your growth. Your goals are valid and I look forward to supporting you.
Thank you for exploring your options for support. People who seek out therapy want something in their lives to change or are adjusting to a change that they never wanted. Therapy can be incredibly helpful and healing. Therapy can also be about getting to know yourself and supporting your growth. Your goals are valid and I look forward to supporting you.
(503) 461-9713 View (503) 461-9713
Photo of Melisa Alvarez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Melisa Alvarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
We’d be a good fit if you’d like to: Change your relationship to your thoughts and past experience, identify negative thinking patterns, explore and identify learned conditioned patterns from early childhood that might not be serving you, challenge inner self-critic, learn to set boundaries, and access more awareness and compassion.
We’d be a good fit if you’d like to: Change your relationship to your thoughts and past experience, identify negative thinking patterns, explore and identify learned conditioned patterns from early childhood that might not be serving you, challenge inner self-critic, learn to set boundaries, and access more awareness and compassion.
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Photo of Kate Parker-Shames, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kate Parker-Shames
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
I provide therapeutic support for individual adults, children, and families around significant life transitions. Being human means that we experience transition and change. Some changes are expected and slower in nature. Some are abrupt and traumatic. Through my calm presence, strong support, and our therapeutic relationship, I can help you move through these transitions, and gain insight, healing, and change. I offer a nonjudgmental space where we can explore together sources of your pain or distress, while developing new ways of interacting with your self and others. I offer empathy, experience, and expertise to help you heal.
I provide therapeutic support for individual adults, children, and families around significant life transitions. Being human means that we experience transition and change. Some changes are expected and slower in nature. Some are abrupt and traumatic. Through my calm presence, strong support, and our therapeutic relationship, I can help you move through these transitions, and gain insight, healing, and change. I offer a nonjudgmental space where we can explore together sources of your pain or distress, while developing new ways of interacting with your self and others. I offer empathy, experience, and expertise to help you heal.
(971) 252-3208 View (971) 252-3208
Photo of Catherine E. Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Catherine E. Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Identifying how one's environment, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences influence each other and understanding the role that they play in our lives, is key to making changes and adopting a healthy perspective. I provide tailored and objective support to help navigate through life events that have created conflict or caused unrest. My education and professional experience (domestic and international) offer expertise to work with adult individuals who are dealing with personal obstacles.
Identifying how one's environment, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences influence each other and understanding the role that they play in our lives, is key to making changes and adopting a healthy perspective. I provide tailored and objective support to help navigate through life events that have created conflict or caused unrest. My education and professional experience (domestic and international) offer expertise to work with adult individuals who are dealing with personal obstacles.
(571) 765-2086 View (571) 765-2086
Photo of Kathleen Barnes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kathleen Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
My name is Kathleen Barnes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from University of Southern California with my MSW in children, family and military clinical social work. I have experience working with diverse populations using many counseling techniques to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma therapy, Motivational therapy and Brief Intervention Solution-based focused therapy. My experience is with individuals that struggle from stress and anxiety from everyday life to severe or mild mental health symptoms and trauma/PTSD.
My name is Kathleen Barnes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from University of Southern California with my MSW in children, family and military clinical social work. I have experience working with diverse populations using many counseling techniques to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma therapy, Motivational therapy and Brief Intervention Solution-based focused therapy. My experience is with individuals that struggle from stress and anxiety from everyday life to severe or mild mental health symptoms and trauma/PTSD.
(971) 320-7376 View (971) 320-7376
Photo of Lindsay Anderson, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Lindsay Anderson
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, MHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Does this resonate with you? You've been told you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional." You feel like you can't trust yourself to make decisions, because you always "screw it up" and your mind is constantly going, replaying memories or rehearsing for the future. You find yourself in similar unfulfilling relationship patterns that leave you questioning your worth and loveability. You lose yourself in relationships, putting others' needs before your own. You're questioning if it can ever really be different.
Does this resonate with you? You've been told you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional." You feel like you can't trust yourself to make decisions, because you always "screw it up" and your mind is constantly going, replaying memories or rehearsing for the future. You find yourself in similar unfulfilling relationship patterns that leave you questioning your worth and loveability. You lose yourself in relationships, putting others' needs before your own. You're questioning if it can ever really be different.
(971) 313-8572 View (971) 313-8572
Photo of Jana Corbett, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Jana Corbett
Psychologist, PhD, CADC-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Do you often feel misunderstood and hurt? Do you feel as though your emotions are controlling you and you don’t know what to do to change that? Does it leave you feeling emotionally exhausted, anxious and full of self-doubt? I know what that feels like and I can help you develop the skills to effectively cope and regulate your emotions and help you identify and communicate your emotions, needs and boundaries to others so you can be heard and get your needs met!
Do you often feel misunderstood and hurt? Do you feel as though your emotions are controlling you and you don’t know what to do to change that? Does it leave you feeling emotionally exhausted, anxious and full of self-doubt? I know what that feels like and I can help you develop the skills to effectively cope and regulate your emotions and help you identify and communicate your emotions, needs and boundaries to others so you can be heard and get your needs met!
(503) 300-5535 View (503) 300-5535

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.