Therapists in Livingston, NJ

Photo of Iva Kirzhner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Iva Kirzhner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
Life brings challenges to all of us; I understand this on a personal level. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience guiding and advocating for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I've worked firsthand with terminally ill patients and provided grief counseling to their families.
Life brings challenges to all of us; I understand this on a personal level. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience guiding and advocating for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I've worked firsthand with terminally ill patients and provided grief counseling to their families.
(201) 778-6357 View (201) 778-6357
Photo of Marta Billan-Mild, Licensed Professional Counselor in Livingston, NJ
Marta Billan-Mild
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my page! I am proud of you for taking the first steps to start or continue your healing journey. I graduated from Northwestern University with an MA in Mental Health Counseling. My ideal client is focused on personal growth and healing. I specialize in depression and anxiety disorders, as well as ADHD, and I have expertise with the other issues mentioned in the side bar. My goal is to provide you with tools that you can utilize outside of our therapy sessions. I incorporate humor and warmth into each session, and I strive to help you to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.
Welcome to my page! I am proud of you for taking the first steps to start or continue your healing journey. I graduated from Northwestern University with an MA in Mental Health Counseling. My ideal client is focused on personal growth and healing. I specialize in depression and anxiety disorders, as well as ADHD, and I have expertise with the other issues mentioned in the side bar. My goal is to provide you with tools that you can utilize outside of our therapy sessions. I incorporate humor and warmth into each session, and I strive to help you to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.
(973) 791-6953 View (973) 791-6953
Photo of Beth VanDusen, Art Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Beth VanDusen
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
My name is Beth VanDusen, and I am a board certified and licensed professional Art Therapist. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, personal conflicts, relational issues or difficult life transitions, I can provide a calm, comfortable and non-judgemental space where we can work together. Art Therapy is an ideal option for anyone looking to better understand themselves when words are not easy to come by. Art Therapy engages the mind, body and spirit through the creative process to better connect with ourselves. Through this process we can find the strength within ourselves to move more efficiently through life's challenges.
My name is Beth VanDusen, and I am a board certified and licensed professional Art Therapist. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, personal conflicts, relational issues or difficult life transitions, I can provide a calm, comfortable and non-judgemental space where we can work together. Art Therapy is an ideal option for anyone looking to better understand themselves when words are not easy to come by. Art Therapy engages the mind, body and spirit through the creative process to better connect with ourselves. Through this process we can find the strength within ourselves to move more efficiently through life's challenges.
(973) 577-9224 View (973) 577-9224
Photo of Ranjana Hari, Pre-Licensed Professional in Livingston, NJ
Ranjana Hari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
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Photo of George Grant, Counselor in Livingston, NJ
George Grant
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCP, SCP
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Sometimes, we all face complex thoughts and emotions that can make us feel down, anxious, or preoccupied. It's perfectly normal to seek professional help when dealing with these challenges. Whether related to depression, anxiety, trauma, or even changes in our personal and professional lives, complex mental states can arise from various factors, like work relationships, family dynamics, or life transitions such as health issues, financial concerns, or interpersonal situations.
Sometimes, we all face complex thoughts and emotions that can make us feel down, anxious, or preoccupied. It's perfectly normal to seek professional help when dealing with these challenges. Whether related to depression, anxiety, trauma, or even changes in our personal and professional lives, complex mental states can arise from various factors, like work relationships, family dynamics, or life transitions such as health issues, financial concerns, or interpersonal situations.
(862) 212-1196 View (862) 212-1196
Photo of David Aichroth LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
David Aichroth LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, AMTP
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with gambling, alcohol, drug, shopping addiction? If so, don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My 23 years of experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction.
I am accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with gambling, alcohol, drug, shopping addiction? If so, don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My 23 years of experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction.
(631) 405-4149 View (631) 405-4149
Photo of Carol Rothstein, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Carol Rothstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
With over 20 years' experience of working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I have seen it all. Beginning any new venture can be a difficult task, but I will help you through the process with empathy, humor and understanding. In my practice I have helped clients with a wide variety of issues, including managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning problems, social issues, divorce, self esteem and parenting. Let me help you navigate through the trying times in your life.
With over 20 years' experience of working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I have seen it all. Beginning any new venture can be a difficult task, but I will help you through the process with empathy, humor and understanding. In my practice I have helped clients with a wide variety of issues, including managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning problems, social issues, divorce, self esteem and parenting. Let me help you navigate through the trying times in your life.
(973) 850-9944 View (973) 850-9944
Photo of Psychological and Educational Consulting LLC, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Psychological and Educational Consulting LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Let us support your child, adolescent, or young adult with special needs as well as your family. Our team of therapists are here to help you manage your child, adolescent and young adult with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Learning Disability through Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent Coaching, Behavior Management and Executive Functioning Coaching. We also offer Psycho-Educational Evaluations that are CST and ETS friendly. Let our team support you!
Let us support your child, adolescent, or young adult with special needs as well as your family. Our team of therapists are here to help you manage your child, adolescent and young adult with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Learning Disability through Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent Coaching, Behavior Management and Executive Functioning Coaching. We also offer Psycho-Educational Evaluations that are CST and ETS friendly. Let our team support you!
(973) 968-5729 View (973) 968-5729
Photo of Cheryl Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Cheryl Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Are you feeling stressed or anxious? Do you need help with your relationships or parenting? I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and resolve problems. My approach is open, warm and respectful. I listen carefully and will give you feedback. All of us at some point in life encounter periods of transition, challenge or crisis. Growth and change are possible through our work together.
Are you feeling stressed or anxious? Do you need help with your relationships or parenting? I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and resolve problems. My approach is open, warm and respectful. I listen carefully and will give you feedback. All of us at some point in life encounter periods of transition, challenge or crisis. Growth and change are possible through our work together.
(203) 426-3046 View (203) 426-3046
Photo of Haley Kastner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
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Photo of Laurence J Horowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Laurence J Horowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I see children, adolescents, and emerging young adults. Clients I see face challenges including but not limited to anxiety, bedwetting, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, or difficulties in social relationships. I provide a safe and supportive space where my clients and their parents can express themselves, find acceptance, and work toward success. Through the therapeutic process, we develop coping strategies for improving communication skills, fostering self-acceptance, achieving overall emotional well-being, and an overall more cohesive family system. For children, I specialize in child-centered play therapy, utilizing a
I see children, adolescents, and emerging young adults. Clients I see face challenges including but not limited to anxiety, bedwetting, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, or difficulties in social relationships. I provide a safe and supportive space where my clients and their parents can express themselves, find acceptance, and work toward success. Through the therapeutic process, we develop coping strategies for improving communication skills, fostering self-acceptance, achieving overall emotional well-being, and an overall more cohesive family system. For children, I specialize in child-centered play therapy, utilizing a
(201) 597-0565 View (201) 597-0565
Photo of Amanda Marshall, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Amanda Marshall
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Psychologist with Psychological and Educational Consulting located in Livingston, NJ. I am currently accepting telehealth clients (ages 13-35, located in NJ/NY and PSYPACT participating states) who experience challenges related to anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, relationships, identity, & life transitions. My experiences include supporting youth, adults, and families in the LGBTQIA+ community, juvenile justice, public and alternative schools, as well as clients from various cultural backgrounds.
Psychologist with Psychological and Educational Consulting located in Livingston, NJ. I am currently accepting telehealth clients (ages 13-35, located in NJ/NY and PSYPACT participating states) who experience challenges related to anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, relationships, identity, & life transitions. My experiences include supporting youth, adults, and families in the LGBTQIA+ community, juvenile justice, public and alternative schools, as well as clients from various cultural backgrounds.
(862) 329-7474 View (862) 329-7474
Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Perler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livingston, NJ
Lauren Elizabeth Perler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
Hi There! I am a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience, and I provide individual and couples therapy to individuals ages 17 and up who are struggling with Covid 19 related stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic medical conditions, life stressors, and relationship challenges. I will strive to help you feel more present each day and to embrace your inner strength with a goal of guiding and helping you to reach your goals.
Hi There! I am a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience, and I provide individual and couples therapy to individuals ages 17 and up who are struggling with Covid 19 related stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic medical conditions, life stressors, and relationship challenges. I will strive to help you feel more present each day and to embrace your inner strength with a goal of guiding and helping you to reach your goals.
(973) 348-6664 View (973) 348-6664
Photo of Kristen Agnello, Licensed Professional Counselor in Livingston, NJ
Kristen Agnello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
Throughout life’s many stages, everyone faces difficult challenges which can cause us to feel anxious, depressed, angry, stuck and even defeated. As difficult as these times may be, you do not have to go through them alone. Personal growth is possible. I commend you for taking the first step by searching for a therapist that best fits your needs. Counseling services are offered for individuals in all stages of life.
Throughout life’s many stages, everyone faces difficult challenges which can cause us to feel anxious, depressed, angry, stuck and even defeated. As difficult as these times may be, you do not have to go through them alone. Personal growth is possible. I commend you for taking the first step by searching for a therapist that best fits your needs. Counseling services are offered for individuals in all stages of life.
(201) 464-2427 View (201) 464-2427
Photo of Elizabeth Stilwell, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Elizabeth Stilwell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both New Jersey and New York. My clinical practice focuses on working with children, adolescent, adults, couples, and families with a variety of concerns ranging from adjustment reactions to severe mental illness. I also provide psychological testing for differential diagnosis, psychoeducational evaluations, and cognitive/executive functioning difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both New Jersey and New York. My clinical practice focuses on working with children, adolescent, adults, couples, and families with a variety of concerns ranging from adjustment reactions to severe mental illness. I also provide psychological testing for differential diagnosis, psychoeducational evaluations, and cognitive/executive functioning difficulties.
(973) 358-7017 View (973) 358-7017
Photo of Jordan Levy, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Jordan Levy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adolescents and adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety as well as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, particularly the Purely Obsessional (Pure-O) subtype. I trained with a world renowned expert in OCD in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy. Additionally, I am also experienced in the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Phobias, tic disorders, Perfectionism and Posttraumatic stress disorder. My research background encompassed relationship and sexual variables related to sexual dysfunction.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adolescents and adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety as well as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, particularly the Purely Obsessional (Pure-O) subtype. I trained with a world renowned expert in OCD in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy. Additionally, I am also experienced in the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Phobias, tic disorders, Perfectionism and Posttraumatic stress disorder. My research background encompassed relationship and sexual variables related to sexual dysfunction.
(973) 251-2228 View (973) 251-2228
Photo of Jordan Heiden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Livingston, NJ
Jordan Heiden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
OCD is a heavy burden. And it feels even heavier when nothing seems to help, including therapy. Maybe you feel that OCD is just something you have to tolerate for the rest of your life. I don’t believe that “coping” is your only option. I believe OCD is treatable. And I believe you can make deep-seated and long-lasting change. Together, we’ll look beyond your diagnosis and subtype, and understand the beliefs that maintain the OCD in your life. This can be daunting, but I’ll be there with you every step of the way offering guidance and support.
OCD is a heavy burden. And it feels even heavier when nothing seems to help, including therapy. Maybe you feel that OCD is just something you have to tolerate for the rest of your life. I don’t believe that “coping” is your only option. I believe OCD is treatable. And I believe you can make deep-seated and long-lasting change. Together, we’ll look beyond your diagnosis and subtype, and understand the beliefs that maintain the OCD in your life. This can be daunting, but I’ll be there with you every step of the way offering guidance and support.
(862) 858-6091 View (862) 858-6091
Photo of Lisa Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Livingston, NJ
Lisa Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, SCPsyA, LPC, LPAT
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I have always loved listening to people and helping them through all kinds of feelings stemming from losses, to relationships and family, to physical pain and emotional pain. My fascination in the mind, lead me into training as a therapist 22 years ago and have not stopped. I continue to want to know more about theories in psychoanalysis, art therapy and counseling. Understanding the intricacies and complexities of being human has been my life's work. I believe the act of talking about every part of ones life, in the presence of a therapist with an open ear and who’s able to understand ones emotional needs is curative in its self.
I have always loved listening to people and helping them through all kinds of feelings stemming from losses, to relationships and family, to physical pain and emotional pain. My fascination in the mind, lead me into training as a therapist 22 years ago and have not stopped. I continue to want to know more about theories in psychoanalysis, art therapy and counseling. Understanding the intricacies and complexities of being human has been my life's work. I believe the act of talking about every part of ones life, in the presence of a therapist with an open ear and who’s able to understand ones emotional needs is curative in its self.
(862) 599-2873 View (862) 599-2873
Photo of Melissa Conway, Psychologist in Livingston, NJ
Melissa Conway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. I use Exposure and Response Prevention, widely recognized as the gold standard for the treatment of OCD. I incorporate other cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based approaches, including mindfulness techniques, to identify patterns in your thinking and manage behaviors that are impacting how you feel. I'm goal-oriented, and together we'll focus on solving problems and reducing bothersome symptoms.
I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. I use Exposure and Response Prevention, widely recognized as the gold standard for the treatment of OCD. I incorporate other cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based approaches, including mindfulness techniques, to identify patterns in your thinking and manage behaviors that are impacting how you feel. I'm goal-oriented, and together we'll focus on solving problems and reducing bothersome symptoms.
(201) 903-9603 View (201) 903-9603
Photo of Victor Aaron Calderon in Livingston, NJ
Victor Aaron Calderon
MA
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
As someone specializing in psychoanalysis, I've learned that there are a myriad of causes that contribute to the stress, anger, anxiety, rage, hatred, and depression we may experience in life. Whether they be associated with the failures of caregivers, unmet needs, not feeling loved or wanted, relationship issues, or feeling as if one has no purpose in life, psychoanalysis has a way of addressing, working through, and resolving the psychological conflicts that emerge in one's life. The effects of working through troubling feelings not only alleviates suffering, it also results in more experiences of pleasure and happiness.
As someone specializing in psychoanalysis, I've learned that there are a myriad of causes that contribute to the stress, anger, anxiety, rage, hatred, and depression we may experience in life. Whether they be associated with the failures of caregivers, unmet needs, not feeling loved or wanted, relationship issues, or feeling as if one has no purpose in life, psychoanalysis has a way of addressing, working through, and resolving the psychological conflicts that emerge in one's life. The effects of working through troubling feelings not only alleviates suffering, it also results in more experiences of pleasure and happiness.
(201) 948-0360 View (201) 948-0360

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Livingston, NJ

300+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Livingston, NJ who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
66% Family Conflict
61% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Livingston, NJ see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Livingston?

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.