Therapists in Bellevue, WA

View neighborhoods in Bellevue
Photo of Connie Zollner, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Connie Zollner
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-C, CCPS-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008
I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing challenges in their relationship. I am passionate about working with those who are, or suspect they are, neurodivergent. My areas of specialty include supporting partners who have experienced intimate partner betrayal, infidelity, issues related to intimacy, and sex addiction. If you struggle to feel understood or become frustrated when trying to understand others, we can work together to find new ways of understanding and communicating. If you find yourself struggling to cope with intimate partner betrayal or sex addiction we can work together to find your new path forward.
I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing challenges in their relationship. I am passionate about working with those who are, or suspect they are, neurodivergent. My areas of specialty include supporting partners who have experienced intimate partner betrayal, infidelity, issues related to intimacy, and sex addiction. If you struggle to feel understood or become frustrated when trying to understand others, we can work together to find new ways of understanding and communicating. If you find yourself struggling to cope with intimate partner betrayal or sex addiction we can work together to find your new path forward.
(425) 390-5615 View (425) 390-5615
Photo of Rebecca Barnett, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Rebecca Barnett
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Welcome to a nurturing space where you need not face life's challenges alone. I understand the weight of worst-case scenarios and the drowning out of reason. Life transitions can be daunting, especially if you deviate from the heteronormative path. My approach is warm, laid-back, and compassionate. Our work is based on trust, respect, and your goals.
Welcome to a nurturing space where you need not face life's challenges alone. I understand the weight of worst-case scenarios and the drowning out of reason. Life transitions can be daunting, especially if you deviate from the heteronormative path. My approach is warm, laid-back, and compassionate. Our work is based on trust, respect, and your goals.
(206) 672-8913 View (206) 672-8913
Photo of Jessica Lamar, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Jessica Lamar
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, LPC, CPTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008
I specialize in providing support for grief, loss, intimate partner betrayal, and building healthier relationships. I am here to assist you in healing, whether it's from pain, grief, loneliness, or shame. Together, we will bring clarity to unresolved events from your past and work through any current relationship struggles. My focus is on exploring and identifying your internal strengths, promoting stability, and fostering personal growth. I genuinely enjoy collaborating with individuals who are seeking ways to adapt, thrive, and find meaning within themselves.
I specialize in providing support for grief, loss, intimate partner betrayal, and building healthier relationships. I am here to assist you in healing, whether it's from pain, grief, loneliness, or shame. Together, we will bring clarity to unresolved events from your past and work through any current relationship struggles. My focus is on exploring and identifying your internal strengths, promoting stability, and fostering personal growth. I genuinely enjoy collaborating with individuals who are seeking ways to adapt, thrive, and find meaning within themselves.
(425) 276-8113 View (425) 276-8113
Photo of Christina Yranela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Christina Yranela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You may be trying to face your emotional scars alone. Yet together, we can explore these topics that may be difficult for you. I want to encourage your growth in self-compassion and self-worth as we work to reframe your unfavorable coping mechanisms. Life is a journey with plenty of obstacles to overcome, yet taking this step to live differently, with more hope, and to live more authentically, is worthwhile.
You may be trying to face your emotional scars alone. Yet together, we can explore these topics that may be difficult for you. I want to encourage your growth in self-compassion and self-worth as we work to reframe your unfavorable coping mechanisms. Life is a journey with plenty of obstacles to overcome, yet taking this step to live differently, with more hope, and to live more authentically, is worthwhile.
(425) 382-8735 View (425) 382-8735
Photo of Jane D Hundley in Bellevue, WA
Jane D Hundley
MA, Psy
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
ONLINE Coaching is available now during normal business hours. I help leaders, managers, directors of organizations and heads of households who experience people-related issues in complex business and home environments. My clients are often intellectually gifted, successful professionals under high business performance pressure to achieve success at the level they know they are capable. Clients include founders, executives scientists/engineers, organizational leaders. I rapidly increase cognitive and behavioral strengths to meet demands during life transitions, career advancements, personal set-backs and interpersonal conflicts.
ONLINE Coaching is available now during normal business hours. I help leaders, managers, directors of organizations and heads of households who experience people-related issues in complex business and home environments. My clients are often intellectually gifted, successful professionals under high business performance pressure to achieve success at the level they know they are capable. Clients include founders, executives scientists/engineers, organizational leaders. I rapidly increase cognitive and behavioral strengths to meet demands during life transitions, career advancements, personal set-backs and interpersonal conflicts.
(425) 598-0268 View (425) 598-0268
Photo of Deb Sommer, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Deb Sommer
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I am here to help foster and guide your process of self-discovery in an affirming environment. I work with individuals and families struggling with depression, anxiety, behavior issues, trauma, sexuality, gender exploration, relationships, life transitions and grief. My approach is to help you restore balance to your life, explore difficult emotions in a supportive manner and to learn how to respond to tough things differently. I believe in the healing power we each hold and will help you foster your growth and develop your strengths.
I am here to help foster and guide your process of self-discovery in an affirming environment. I work with individuals and families struggling with depression, anxiety, behavior issues, trauma, sexuality, gender exploration, relationships, life transitions and grief. My approach is to help you restore balance to your life, explore difficult emotions in a supportive manner and to learn how to respond to tough things differently. I believe in the healing power we each hold and will help you foster your growth and develop your strengths.
(425) 529-5124 View (425) 529-5124
Photo of Elizabeth Vu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Elizabeth Vu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
In this first step, you have started on a path towards growth and healing. You may be struggling with feeling lost, disconnected to your self, going through big life changes, or just a general feeling of things not working quite right, and your regular strategies to cope are not working. Perhaps past experiences, patterns, or traumas are showing up in ways that are negatively impacting your relationships or mood. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I help my clients heal from past trauma and develop new ways of responding to current stress.
In this first step, you have started on a path towards growth and healing. You may be struggling with feeling lost, disconnected to your self, going through big life changes, or just a general feeling of things not working quite right, and your regular strategies to cope are not working. Perhaps past experiences, patterns, or traumas are showing up in ways that are negatively impacting your relationships or mood. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I help my clients heal from past trauma and develop new ways of responding to current stress.
(425) 409-5308 View (425) 409-5308
Photo of Brandy Hofstad, MA, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brandy Hofstad, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hello! My speciality is working with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults. As a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS), I enjoy working with youth while providing a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive, and comfortable environment to discuss challenges and hopes. My passion is helping children and adolescents increase self-awareness, find balance, and develop a healthy emotional awareness by strengthening interpersonal relationships, improving conflict resolution skills, improving communication skills, while learning and developing coping skills. I believe that having good mental health leads to positive self-image and the ability to work with life changes.
Hello! My speciality is working with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults. As a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS), I enjoy working with youth while providing a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive, and comfortable environment to discuss challenges and hopes. My passion is helping children and adolescents increase self-awareness, find balance, and develop a healthy emotional awareness by strengthening interpersonal relationships, improving conflict resolution skills, improving communication skills, while learning and developing coping skills. I believe that having good mental health leads to positive self-image and the ability to work with life changes.
(425) 495-3031 View (425) 495-3031
Photo of Aram Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Aram Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
All of us come up with ways to manage life's stresses. Each one of these strategies was born out of a need to protect ourselves - to survive. Yet sometimes, the methods we relied on to help us out of difficult situations end up being the very source of more difficulties. Perhaps you isolate yourself when relationships get hard and leave loved ones feeling abandoned; perhaps the only way you know how to love pushes your child further away; and perhaps you're an achiever who, when the lights are dimmed and applause is gone, feels endlessly empty and small. Your own stuff is getting in the way of you being who you want to be.
All of us come up with ways to manage life's stresses. Each one of these strategies was born out of a need to protect ourselves - to survive. Yet sometimes, the methods we relied on to help us out of difficult situations end up being the very source of more difficulties. Perhaps you isolate yourself when relationships get hard and leave loved ones feeling abandoned; perhaps the only way you know how to love pushes your child further away; and perhaps you're an achiever who, when the lights are dimmed and applause is gone, feels endlessly empty and small. Your own stuff is getting in the way of you being who you want to be.
(206) 312-4763 View (206) 312-4763
Photo of Kasey Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Kasey Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a young adult or teen struggling with life transitions, self esteem, anxiety, or depression? Have you been experiencing stress, burnout, or overwhelm? During teen and young adult years, coping with emotions, relationships, and the pressures of daily life can be particularly challenging. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I support clients in navigating teen and young adult issues, while emphasizing mindfulness, connection, the creation of meaning, and holistic well-being. I help clients learn to balance self-compassion with goal-oriented change.
Are you a young adult or teen struggling with life transitions, self esteem, anxiety, or depression? Have you been experiencing stress, burnout, or overwhelm? During teen and young adult years, coping with emotions, relationships, and the pressures of daily life can be particularly challenging. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I support clients in navigating teen and young adult issues, while emphasizing mindfulness, connection, the creation of meaning, and holistic well-being. I help clients learn to balance self-compassion with goal-oriented change.
(206) 593-4352 View (206) 593-4352
Photo of Ferda Celen, Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Ferda Celen
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Your life feels like constant struggle, your worries keep you awake at night. Yet, you get up, put your best face on, and pretend that everything is OK. Wanted to get help but you are afraid to show what you are going through. You have been suffering; your relationships are suffering and deep down you know that something needs to change. If any of these applies to you, I can help. Sometimes all it takes finding a safe place and someone who are willing to listen without judgement. I can provide you a safe place and help you find your strength and build skills for a better life.
Your life feels like constant struggle, your worries keep you awake at night. Yet, you get up, put your best face on, and pretend that everything is OK. Wanted to get help but you are afraid to show what you are going through. You have been suffering; your relationships are suffering and deep down you know that something needs to change. If any of these applies to you, I can help. Sometimes all it takes finding a safe place and someone who are willing to listen without judgement. I can provide you a safe place and help you find your strength and build skills for a better life.
(425) 728-7595 View (425) 728-7595
Photo of Mei Thompson (Yijing Mei Thompson), Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Mei Thompson (Yijing Mei Thompson)
Counselor, MS, LPC-A, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
“Shame dies when stories are told in a safe environment”. I believe that building a safe and genuine relationship with clients is essential in facilitating healing. Relating to others in an empathetic and genuine way has always been my nature, and I bring these to my counseling sessions. I believe that when we help our clients recognize their own strength and resiliency, they discover a new potential within themselves. I feel a special connection working with clients who identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). I am excited to use my knowledge and experience to help them work through their unique struggles.
“Shame dies when stories are told in a safe environment”. I believe that building a safe and genuine relationship with clients is essential in facilitating healing. Relating to others in an empathetic and genuine way has always been my nature, and I bring these to my counseling sessions. I believe that when we help our clients recognize their own strength and resiliency, they discover a new potential within themselves. I feel a special connection working with clients who identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). I am excited to use my knowledge and experience to help them work through their unique struggles.
(206) 208-1439 View (206) 208-1439
Photo of Marc Bachrach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Marc Bachrach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDFA, CPM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I utilize a practical approach to assist clients in getting more of what they want and less of what they don't. I believe that successful therapy includes identifying the What, understanding the Why and developing the How to move forward. My clients want more from themselves, their relationships and their careers. I offer a guiding hand to help them map out their goals and explore the origins of their current behavior. Clients can expect to play an active role in transitioning their lives through goal setting, skill building and out of session activities.
As a therapist, I utilize a practical approach to assist clients in getting more of what they want and less of what they don't. I believe that successful therapy includes identifying the What, understanding the Why and developing the How to move forward. My clients want more from themselves, their relationships and their careers. I offer a guiding hand to help them map out their goals and explore the origins of their current behavior. Clients can expect to play an active role in transitioning their lives through goal setting, skill building and out of session activities.
(425) 728-8899 View (425) 728-8899
Photo of Jessica Kicha, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Jessica Kicha
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Helping couples connect is my specialty. Do you sometimes feel alone in your relationship? Does it seem like your partner does not understand you, and no matter how hard you try it seems like you end up in the same fight over and over again? Has that sense of being close and connected changed to feeling more distant and roommate like? If you're ready to reclaim your relationship back from the negative patterns that keep you stuck, I am here to help.
Helping couples connect is my specialty. Do you sometimes feel alone in your relationship? Does it seem like your partner does not understand you, and no matter how hard you try it seems like you end up in the same fight over and over again? Has that sense of being close and connected changed to feeling more distant and roommate like? If you're ready to reclaim your relationship back from the negative patterns that keep you stuck, I am here to help.
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Photo of Anna Redgrave Counseling & Coaching, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Anna Redgrave Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
My experience & education strengthens my ability to empathize with & support clients across my areas of expertise incl ADHD, Trauma & Work life problems amongst other issues. Before becoming a counselor I worked in corporate IT and telco, and enjoy working with people in the tech space. My approach is personable & empathetic & pride myself on being down-to-earth & unpretentious. Clients have commented on how comfortable they feel working with me, trusting that I have their best interests at heart. When appropriate I am also known to have a spring in my step and smile on my face.
My experience & education strengthens my ability to empathize with & support clients across my areas of expertise incl ADHD, Trauma & Work life problems amongst other issues. Before becoming a counselor I worked in corporate IT and telco, and enjoy working with people in the tech space. My approach is personable & empathetic & pride myself on being down-to-earth & unpretentious. Clients have commented on how comfortable they feel working with me, trusting that I have their best interests at heart. When appropriate I am also known to have a spring in my step and smile on my face.
(509) 417-0690 View (509) 417-0690
Photo of Jennifer Liu, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Jennifer Liu
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Not accepting new clients
I offer individual counseling to high school aged teens and adults. I have a passion for working with the issues that teens and their families face, viewing this time period to be critical developmentally. As a second-generation Taiwanese American born and raised in the U.S., I can work as a bridge between parents and teenagers with bicultural backgrounds. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, divorce, grief and loss, suicidal ideation, identity development, eating issues, navigating transitions, and social anxiety.
I offer individual counseling to high school aged teens and adults. I have a passion for working with the issues that teens and their families face, viewing this time period to be critical developmentally. As a second-generation Taiwanese American born and raised in the U.S., I can work as a bridge between parents and teenagers with bicultural backgrounds. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, divorce, grief and loss, suicidal ideation, identity development, eating issues, navigating transitions, and social anxiety.
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Photo of Amrit Kaur, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Amrit Kaur
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
It can be difficult to seek help and can feel even more difficult to choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and connect. You are here because a part of you is ready for change and growth. Therefore, I welcome you as you begin your journey to better yourself.
It can be difficult to seek help and can feel even more difficult to choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and connect. You are here because a part of you is ready for change and growth. Therefore, I welcome you as you begin your journey to better yourself.
(425) 264-8875 View (425) 264-8875
Photo of Mouna El-Khadiri, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Mouna El-Khadiri
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Do you feel stuck or unable to experience joy, or have a meaningful life. Maybe, you are experiencing sadness, loss or difficult life transitions. You are not alone and I am here to offer you hope that you can overcome these challenges. I am here to support you and help you feel safe and grounded as we explore your life experiences and challenges that are keeping you stuck. You will learn new healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions and life situations. When necessary, we will focus on childhood experiences and relationships that may still impact you and prevent you from having the life and connections you want.
Do you feel stuck or unable to experience joy, or have a meaningful life. Maybe, you are experiencing sadness, loss or difficult life transitions. You are not alone and I am here to offer you hope that you can overcome these challenges. I am here to support you and help you feel safe and grounded as we explore your life experiences and challenges that are keeping you stuck. You will learn new healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions and life situations. When necessary, we will focus on childhood experiences and relationships that may still impact you and prevent you from having the life and connections you want.
(206) 593-2557 x5249 View (206) 593-2557 x5249
Photo of Brooke Byers, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brooke Byers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Feelings illuminate needs & needs require action. There is a unique connection between your emotions & your feelings. Is healing, growth & change possible for me? Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Is it possible to find my voice? How can I recover from disordered eating? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/them/us? Questions like these are worthy of asking and it takes courage to seek and find the answers.
Feelings illuminate needs & needs require action. There is a unique connection between your emotions & your feelings. Is healing, growth & change possible for me? Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Is it possible to find my voice? How can I recover from disordered eating? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/them/us? Questions like these are worthy of asking and it takes courage to seek and find the answers.
(425) 217-8901 x702 View (425) 217-8901 x702
Photo of Gerri Tay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Gerri Tay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
Something does not feel right, you are having a hard time. You’re stuck, conflicted, and can't decide what to do. Or maybe a part of you thinks one way and another part feels differently. You feel disconnected and alone. Others have tried to help, but you feel like they don't really get you and want you to "just get over it". Shame and frustration set in. Maybe you have a sense that some trauma from your past is blocking you from living the life that you want. You want to get unstuck, have a clear roadmap to know what to do next and how to go about healing. You want to experience real joy and connection again.
Something does not feel right, you are having a hard time. You’re stuck, conflicted, and can't decide what to do. Or maybe a part of you thinks one way and another part feels differently. You feel disconnected and alone. Others have tried to help, but you feel like they don't really get you and want you to "just get over it". Shame and frustration set in. Maybe you have a sense that some trauma from your past is blocking you from living the life that you want. You want to get unstuck, have a clear roadmap to know what to do next and how to go about healing. You want to experience real joy and connection again.
(425) 448-4614 View (425) 448-4614

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Premera
55% Regence
53% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.