Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Patricia M Calhoun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Patricia M Calhoun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Many people struggle with asking for help. The fact that you are here shows your strength and resilience. Therapy gold star for you and we haven't even started yet! I imagine you are here because something is not working; perhaps it's past or current trauma, substance use, family relationships, mental health, sexuality, work stress, life transitions, all of these-or something else. What is important is you are looking for someone to meet you where you are, extend out their hand and say; "I'm here, and I will walk along this path with you in the way you need. You are safe." I would be honored to be that person in your process.
Many people struggle with asking for help. The fact that you are here shows your strength and resilience. Therapy gold star for you and we haven't even started yet! I imagine you are here because something is not working; perhaps it's past or current trauma, substance use, family relationships, mental health, sexuality, work stress, life transitions, all of these-or something else. What is important is you are looking for someone to meet you where you are, extend out their hand and say; "I'm here, and I will walk along this path with you in the way you need. You are safe." I would be honored to be that person in your process.
(971) 206-6715 View (971) 206-6715
Photo of Amelia Lund, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Amelia Lund
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Hi! I help people pleasers honor their caring nature while also valuing themselves. I am a believer in authentic relating and vulnerability in my work and would love to help you in your own personal and professional goals. I am a mindfulness based and long-term therapist who enjoys walking the journey of learning yourself and how to become more aligned with your values as you move through life. I specialize in people pleasers, religious questioning and deconstruction/ trauma and new therapists. please text or email for faster responses. I am a neurodivergent, LBGTQ member of society and love showing up for others.
Hi! I help people pleasers honor their caring nature while also valuing themselves. I am a believer in authentic relating and vulnerability in my work and would love to help you in your own personal and professional goals. I am a mindfulness based and long-term therapist who enjoys walking the journey of learning yourself and how to become more aligned with your values as you move through life. I specialize in people pleasers, religious questioning and deconstruction/ trauma and new therapists. please text or email for faster responses. I am a neurodivergent, LBGTQ member of society and love showing up for others.
(503) 455-8714 View (503) 455-8714
Photo of Teletherapy Telehealth Counseling Eric Lane Eubank, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Teletherapy Telehealth Counseling Eric Lane Eubank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
When you are not understanding each other & when you think your relationships are stuck or damaged, an objective & experienced family coach could help. If going to a family therapy office is any barrier, discreet video telecounseling sessions or phone calls from your home might be the solution to start to understand each other & rebuild your relationships stronger than ever. Individuals who are considering/ready to make personal changes will also find nonjudgmental coaching & support in clarifying & "operationalizing" their goals & understanding themselves better. I bring my therapist experience when older 'scars' are discovered.
When you are not understanding each other & when you think your relationships are stuck or damaged, an objective & experienced family coach could help. If going to a family therapy office is any barrier, discreet video telecounseling sessions or phone calls from your home might be the solution to start to understand each other & rebuild your relationships stronger than ever. Individuals who are considering/ready to make personal changes will also find nonjudgmental coaching & support in clarifying & "operationalizing" their goals & understanding themselves better. I bring my therapist experience when older 'scars' are discovered.
(971) 351-0492 View (971) 351-0492
Photo of Dr. Jason Jones, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Jason Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I am currently accepting new patients! I have experience treating a broad range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I provide a non judgemental and compassionate approach to begin the healing process.
I am currently accepting new patients! I have experience treating a broad range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I provide a non judgemental and compassionate approach to begin the healing process.
(971) 298-8190 x1 View (971) 298-8190 x1
Photo of Naomi Berg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Naomi Berg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I support people through the process of healing from trauma and liberating themselves from patterns that no longer serve. I specialize in supporting adult survivors (of all genders) of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse or assault, or climate-event trauma, and people who may be experiencing emotional overwhelm, acute stress, complex trauma, posttraumatic stress, panic, dissociation, disconnection from self or others, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, existential crisis, loss of meaning/purpose, and/or feelings of powerlessness.
I support people through the process of healing from trauma and liberating themselves from patterns that no longer serve. I specialize in supporting adult survivors (of all genders) of intimate partner violence, sexual abuse or assault, or climate-event trauma, and people who may be experiencing emotional overwhelm, acute stress, complex trauma, posttraumatic stress, panic, dissociation, disconnection from self or others, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, existential crisis, loss of meaning/purpose, and/or feelings of powerlessness.
(971) 571-5636 View (971) 571-5636
Photo of Elizabeth Ellisan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Elizabeth Ellisan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
When we find ourselves in times of increased stress and uncertainty we often find our personal everyday struggles are magnified making it harder than ever to maintain a sense of hope and stability. Anxiety, depression, and grief may be more intense lately – that is where therapy comes in to help.
When we find ourselves in times of increased stress and uncertainty we often find our personal everyday struggles are magnified making it harder than ever to maintain a sense of hope and stability. Anxiety, depression, and grief may be more intense lately – that is where therapy comes in to help.
(971) 717-3758 View (971) 717-3758
Photo of Emily Ott, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Emily Ott
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I often work with clients who are seeking recovery from traumatic experiences and other stressful life events. I specialize in working with clients who have symptoms of PTSD, anxiety disorders, OCD, and adjustment disorders due to life stressors/transitions. I am interested in working with clients who are willing to explore how their experiences inform and impact their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My hope is that we will be able to identify and possibly shift patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can live in alignment with your unique values and goals moving forward.
I often work with clients who are seeking recovery from traumatic experiences and other stressful life events. I specialize in working with clients who have symptoms of PTSD, anxiety disorders, OCD, and adjustment disorders due to life stressors/transitions. I am interested in working with clients who are willing to explore how their experiences inform and impact their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My hope is that we will be able to identify and possibly shift patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can live in alignment with your unique values and goals moving forward.
(503) 213-9174 View (503) 213-9174
Photo of Caitlin O'Dell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Caitlin O'Dell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
I love supporting people in better understanding themselves. In therapy, I work with teens (16+), and adults of all ages. I welcome members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and provide affirming care for folks on the gender spectrum and/or amid gender transition. I value a collaborative relationship with clients as well as crafting the therapeutic experience to meet the needs of each individual and relational system I work with.
I love supporting people in better understanding themselves. In therapy, I work with teens (16+), and adults of all ages. I welcome members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and provide affirming care for folks on the gender spectrum and/or amid gender transition. I value a collaborative relationship with clients as well as crafting the therapeutic experience to meet the needs of each individual and relational system I work with.
(971) 265-6965 View (971) 265-6965
Photo of Karim Dabliz, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Karim Dabliz
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Professional Counseling Associate located in Portland, Oregon. I help individuals heal their trauma, increase awareness and work toward cultivating meaningful connections in their most important relationships. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I believe in understanding the parts of yourself that make you who you are, rather than removing them. I specialize in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds. I am also experienced in helping self esteem, navigating body image, and working on the importance of boundaries.
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Professional Counseling Associate located in Portland, Oregon. I help individuals heal their trauma, increase awareness and work toward cultivating meaningful connections in their most important relationships. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I believe in understanding the parts of yourself that make you who you are, rather than removing them. I specialize in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds. I am also experienced in helping self esteem, navigating body image, and working on the importance of boundaries.
(971) 571-5721 View (971) 571-5721
Photo of Brandy Tidwell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Brandy Tidwell
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
I believe we each need to be understood, valued, and accepted exactly as we are. My goal is to provide a safe and affirming relationship where we can collaboratively explore who you are, how you came to be, and who you hope to become as we work together toward your goals. I bring a holistic perspective that emphasizes healing in relationship and integration of mind & body. In session this might look like practicing mindfulness, learning nervous system regulation tools, exploring attachment, or practicing communication. My hope is that therapy can empower you to live authentically, accept yourself more fully, and cultivate belonging.
I believe we each need to be understood, valued, and accepted exactly as we are. My goal is to provide a safe and affirming relationship where we can collaboratively explore who you are, how you came to be, and who you hope to become as we work together toward your goals. I bring a holistic perspective that emphasizes healing in relationship and integration of mind & body. In session this might look like practicing mindfulness, learning nervous system regulation tools, exploring attachment, or practicing communication. My hope is that therapy can empower you to live authentically, accept yourself more fully, and cultivate belonging.
(971) 278-9175 View (971) 278-9175
Photo of The Couples Clinic of Portland , Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
The Couples Clinic of Portland
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
At The Couples Clinic of Portland, helping people is our passion. We get great satisfaction in helping people improve their lives and relationships. We know from personal experience how restorative and empowering good counseling can be. We are here to collaboratively help you work through whatever you are struggling with, and find your true, empowered self. We also know how difficult it is to find a therapist who has advanced training in couples counseling. As we are dedicated to keeping abreast of the most cutting edge techniques, you are certain to find help here for yourself and for your relationship.
At The Couples Clinic of Portland, helping people is our passion. We get great satisfaction in helping people improve their lives and relationships. We know from personal experience how restorative and empowering good counseling can be. We are here to collaboratively help you work through whatever you are struggling with, and find your true, empowered self. We also know how difficult it is to find a therapist who has advanced training in couples counseling. As we are dedicated to keeping abreast of the most cutting edge techniques, you are certain to find help here for yourself and for your relationship.
(503) 866-0299 View (503) 866-0299
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 Mary Bright, Counselor in Portland, OR
Mary Bright
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Hello & Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here making the courageous choice to get support versus struggling alone. I see my most essential role in our work together as being a fellow traveler, providing deep listening, honoring and respecting your individual path, and believing fully in your innate ability to create and sustain a life of passion, meaning, and hope through the many challenges we all face in our changing world. During my 17 years of work as a professional counselor, I have gotten to experience the profound honor of being witness to my clients' rediscovering their most courageous, wise, and truest selves.
Hello & Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here making the courageous choice to get support versus struggling alone. I see my most essential role in our work together as being a fellow traveler, providing deep listening, honoring and respecting your individual path, and believing fully in your innate ability to create and sustain a life of passion, meaning, and hope through the many challenges we all face in our changing world. During my 17 years of work as a professional counselor, I have gotten to experience the profound honor of being witness to my clients' rediscovering their most courageous, wise, and truest selves.
(971) 983-8201 View (971) 983-8201
Photo of Quin McFadin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Quin McFadin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Licensed in OR and CA. I work with individuals, couples and partnered adults to create a collaborative relationship. Fully understand your Self in relationship and what is happening for you in the present. In a safe holding, we explore the nature of the context in which you came to know yourself and understand your current situation and what you experience now. This process provides for flexibility, resilience, whole presence, agency and efficacy. When you know who you are and can be compassionate and accepting of yourself, resourcing and negotiating your needs in the world becomes both more peaceful and more satisfying.
Licensed in OR and CA. I work with individuals, couples and partnered adults to create a collaborative relationship. Fully understand your Self in relationship and what is happening for you in the present. In a safe holding, we explore the nature of the context in which you came to know yourself and understand your current situation and what you experience now. This process provides for flexibility, resilience, whole presence, agency and efficacy. When you know who you are and can be compassionate and accepting of yourself, resourcing and negotiating your needs in the world becomes both more peaceful and more satisfying.
(503) 966-2645 View (503) 966-2645
Photo of Sarah Kushner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Sarah Kushner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Whatever you bring to counseling, there is space for you here. I believe that we all have innate capacity to grow through our difficulties, and that my role is to help you discover and enhance your strengths in a way that compliments who you are at this point in your life. I help Oregonians like you, whether this is your first experience with therapy or you have worked with a counselor before. I take my cues from you, and together we will build a therapeutic relationship focused on achieving your goals.
Whatever you bring to counseling, there is space for you here. I believe that we all have innate capacity to grow through our difficulties, and that my role is to help you discover and enhance your strengths in a way that compliments who you are at this point in your life. I help Oregonians like you, whether this is your first experience with therapy or you have worked with a counselor before. I take my cues from you, and together we will build a therapeutic relationship focused on achieving your goals.
(503) 727-3750 View (503) 727-3750
Photo of Erica Weber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Erica Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that it is important to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. There are many wonderful therapists, but it is important for you to feel that you are understood, supported, and sometimes gently challenged by your therapist. I will ask you to identify what you want help with or what you are feeling distress around and then will actively work with you toward your goals.
I believe that it is important to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. There are many wonderful therapists, but it is important for you to feel that you are understood, supported, and sometimes gently challenged by your therapist. I will ask you to identify what you want help with or what you are feeling distress around and then will actively work with you toward your goals.
(503) 476-9119 View (503) 476-9119
Photo of Stefanie Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Stefanie Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Currently no couples work, no crisis work. Individual telehealth therapy only. Finding the right therapist is a key part in having a positive and effective therapeutic experience. Whether you are beginning your therapeutic journey or continuing on, the growth toward self-discovery and healing is truly a commendable one. I am here to provide guidance toward gaining insight, authenticity to self, confidence, and an opportunity to break patterns. I specialize in: family of origin concerns, creating meaning in difficult hardships, accessing your strengths, rewriting narratives causing distress, and empowering you to be your best self.
Currently no couples work, no crisis work. Individual telehealth therapy only. Finding the right therapist is a key part in having a positive and effective therapeutic experience. Whether you are beginning your therapeutic journey or continuing on, the growth toward self-discovery and healing is truly a commendable one. I am here to provide guidance toward gaining insight, authenticity to self, confidence, and an opportunity to break patterns. I specialize in: family of origin concerns, creating meaning in difficult hardships, accessing your strengths, rewriting narratives causing distress, and empowering you to be your best self.
(971) 248-7833 View (971) 248-7833
Photo of Mindy L Feather, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Mindy L Feather
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to give kids a safe place to explore their thoughts and feelings and then empower their caregivers with information and insight into their child's experience. I can also provide supportive techniques for caregivers in filial therapy and attachment methods which include playful activities that help you enjoy parenting again. I am passionate about treating children with anxiety and trauma concerns. My decade of experience has been focused on working with children who have been through the trauma of grief, divorce, neglect, and sexual, physical, or emotional abuse.
My goal is to give kids a safe place to explore their thoughts and feelings and then empower their caregivers with information and insight into their child's experience. I can also provide supportive techniques for caregivers in filial therapy and attachment methods which include playful activities that help you enjoy parenting again. I am passionate about treating children with anxiety and trauma concerns. My decade of experience has been focused on working with children who have been through the trauma of grief, divorce, neglect, and sexual, physical, or emotional abuse.
(503) 782-4061 View (503) 782-4061
Photo of Gretchen Lemmon Vance, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Gretchen Lemmon Vance
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I am a clinician with years of training and broad experience that have brought about a deep understanding of how people come to feel and behave as they do. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, identity and self-esteem problems, relationship difficulties, pregnancy/postpartum adjustment, and those feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or stuck. My approach is warm, compassionate, honest, and professional. I strive to be a steady and supportive partner throughout the therapy process and facilitate an increasing understanding of your emotions, patterns, and areas of identity impacting many areas of your life. I find curiosity and humor to be important tools in the process.
I am a clinician with years of training and broad experience that have brought about a deep understanding of how people come to feel and behave as they do. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, identity and self-esteem problems, relationship difficulties, pregnancy/postpartum adjustment, and those feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or stuck. My approach is warm, compassionate, honest, and professional. I strive to be a steady and supportive partner throughout the therapy process and facilitate an increasing understanding of your emotions, patterns, and areas of identity impacting many areas of your life. I find curiosity and humor to be important tools in the process.
(503) 622-8589 View (503) 622-8589
Photo of Jon Fox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jon Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Not accepting new clients
Do you find it difficult to get your own needs met in relationship, taking care of everybody else but yourself? I can help you become empowered to create more balanced and rewarding relationships in your life. Do you feel lonely, distant, and disconnected from your partner? Through our work together you can share greater trust and intimacy with your partner. Are you overwhelmed sometimes, feeling unsafe, and threatened due to the lingering affects of past abuse or trauma? I can help you become resilient to the effects of trauma and gain inner confidence, peace and lightness.
Do you find it difficult to get your own needs met in relationship, taking care of everybody else but yourself? I can help you become empowered to create more balanced and rewarding relationships in your life. Do you feel lonely, distant, and disconnected from your partner? Through our work together you can share greater trust and intimacy with your partner. Are you overwhelmed sometimes, feeling unsafe, and threatened due to the lingering affects of past abuse or trauma? I can help you become resilient to the effects of trauma and gain inner confidence, peace and lightness.
(503) 451-6261 View (503) 451-6261

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
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

55% 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.