Photo of Linda Solheim, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Solheim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults who have experienced trauma or life events that have resulted in unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. You might notice them presenting as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and problems with relationships or performance. With a background in nursing, I appreciate how harmony between our thoughts, emotions, body, and spirit influences our health. Exploring those areas along with your life experiences, values, beliefs, and burdens, and identifying your internal resources helps to create more space for self-acceptance and change.
I work with adults who have experienced trauma or life events that have resulted in unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. You might notice them presenting as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and problems with relationships or performance. With a background in nursing, I appreciate how harmony between our thoughts, emotions, body, and spirit influences our health. Exploring those areas along with your life experiences, values, beliefs, and burdens, and identifying your internal resources helps to create more space for self-acceptance and change.
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Photo of Ebonie Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ebonie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Ebonie Brown is a psychotherapist with a profound commitment to facilitating healing and growth in individuals, couples, and families. With a Bachelor’s of Arts from Tuskegee University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama, Ebonie brings a solid academic foundation to her practice, further enriched by specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) from the (Emdria Emdr) Institute in Arizona.
Ebonie Brown is a psychotherapist with a profound commitment to facilitating healing and growth in individuals, couples, and families. With a Bachelor’s of Arts from Tuskegee University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama, Ebonie brings a solid academic foundation to her practice, further enriched by specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) from the (Emdria Emdr) Institute in Arizona.
(623) 304-3908 View (623) 304-3908
Photo of Alan Aymami Lcsw Sep, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alan Aymami Lcsw Sep
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Finding peace, clarity and happiness isn't easy when life brings confusion, pain, loneliness and disconnection from yourself and others- and I'd like to help. There is hope for change. I know because I've been through struggles too, and because you are reading this now I believe this is your time to reach out and claim your inner power and authentic self waiting to bring you joy. To assist in your journey, I use experience together with training I receive as a therapist at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment facility for anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship issues, along with several other treatment models.
Finding peace, clarity and happiness isn't easy when life brings confusion, pain, loneliness and disconnection from yourself and others- and I'd like to help. There is hope for change. I know because I've been through struggles too, and because you are reading this now I believe this is your time to reach out and claim your inner power and authentic self waiting to bring you joy. To assist in your journey, I use experience together with training I receive as a therapist at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment facility for anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship issues, along with several other treatment models.
(602) 884-8834 View (602) 884-8834
Photo of Megan Harrison, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Harrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am committed to helping you develop the relational skills and strategies needed to build and maintain positive, meaningful, and healthy relationships. I truly believe in finding what inspires you and using this to guide the process of healing and healthy living. Through my 10 years of counseling experience, I have had the amazing opportunity to work with families from all over the US and other countries. I hold a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with significant experience working with family’s affected by transgenerational trauma, mental illness, and pervasive unhealthy patterns that stifle relational connections.
I am committed to helping you develop the relational skills and strategies needed to build and maintain positive, meaningful, and healthy relationships. I truly believe in finding what inspires you and using this to guide the process of healing and healthy living. Through my 10 years of counseling experience, I have had the amazing opportunity to work with families from all over the US and other countries. I hold a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with significant experience working with family’s affected by transgenerational trauma, mental illness, and pervasive unhealthy patterns that stifle relational connections.
(480) 530-8487 View (480) 530-8487
Photo of Natalie Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is a place for self-exploration and building awareness of what is holding you back from leading a more fulfilling life. Whether you have suffered a recent loss or trauma, are suffering with painful emotions or having trouble coping with a life transition, therapy is a place to be heard and supported as you navigate the difficult path towards healing. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy. My role is to create a safe, supportive environment and ask thoughtful questions to help you better understand yourself.
I believe therapy is a place for self-exploration and building awareness of what is holding you back from leading a more fulfilling life. Whether you have suffered a recent loss or trauma, are suffering with painful emotions or having trouble coping with a life transition, therapy is a place to be heard and supported as you navigate the difficult path towards healing. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy. My role is to create a safe, supportive environment and ask thoughtful questions to help you better understand yourself.
(480) 923-5492 View (480) 923-5492
Photo of Carol Mellen, PhD, Psychologist
Carol Mellen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Dr. Carol Mellen has been a licensed psychologist in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area for over 30 years. She strives to make a difference in the lives of her clients and is trained and experienced in providing clinical and forensic and forensic informed services including court appointed evaluations and therapy, psycho-legal consultation, diagnostic assessments, custody and personal injury evaluations and expert witness testimony.
Dr. Carol Mellen has been a licensed psychologist in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area for over 30 years. She strives to make a difference in the lives of her clients and is trained and experienced in providing clinical and forensic and forensic informed services including court appointed evaluations and therapy, psycho-legal consultation, diagnostic assessments, custody and personal injury evaluations and expert witness testimony.
(480) 685-8578 View (480) 685-8578
Photo of Allison Pincus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Pincus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Feeling stuck? Like you're not in the place you should be in your life right now? I understand that feeling completely and I'm here to help. Sometimes life doesn't turn out the way we hope and we begin to feel down, hopeless, worried, or alone. I will help you recognize that it's OK to have these difficult feelings...and even normal! When we learn to acknowledge and accept our feelings we can begin to move through them and find meaning and joy in our lives again. We can put down the shame, guilt, and burden we feel and find our true purpose again. I'm here to walk along side you on your journey toward self-growth and healing.
Feeling stuck? Like you're not in the place you should be in your life right now? I understand that feeling completely and I'm here to help. Sometimes life doesn't turn out the way we hope and we begin to feel down, hopeless, worried, or alone. I will help you recognize that it's OK to have these difficult feelings...and even normal! When we learn to acknowledge and accept our feelings we can begin to move through them and find meaning and joy in our lives again. We can put down the shame, guilt, and burden we feel and find our true purpose again. I'm here to walk along side you on your journey toward self-growth and healing.
(602) 903-6966 View (602) 903-6966
Photo of Leah Wolin, MSW, LCSW, CCTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Wolin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTS
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt? Are you feeling overwhelmed with day to day tasks or feeling depleted from balancing all your responsibilities? Perhaps you’ve experienced trauma and feel challenged with moving forward? As your therapist, I provide a non-judgmental and safe space where we can work together to develop coping skills, process life experiences, and accomplish personal goals.
Are you struggling with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt? Are you feeling overwhelmed with day to day tasks or feeling depleted from balancing all your responsibilities? Perhaps you’ve experienced trauma and feel challenged with moving forward? As your therapist, I provide a non-judgmental and safe space where we can work together to develop coping skills, process life experiences, and accomplish personal goals.
(928) 260-2799 View (928) 260-2799
Photo of Karen Lee Williams, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Lee Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Broken by addiction? Trapped by compulsions? Too many unfulfilling relationships with a noticeable common denominator? People seek my help because they want a better life and they don't know how to get there. You might have even said to yourself "I know there is something more to all of this but what is IT exactly" or "why do my thoughts and feelings keep getting in the way of my goals" or even "I don't know who I am"? So if you've stopped by PT looking for an end to the madness, then you're in the right place. Stop riding the hampster wheel. Let's talk about your new life.
Broken by addiction? Trapped by compulsions? Too many unfulfilling relationships with a noticeable common denominator? People seek my help because they want a better life and they don't know how to get there. You might have even said to yourself "I know there is something more to all of this but what is IT exactly" or "why do my thoughts and feelings keep getting in the way of my goals" or even "I don't know who I am"? So if you've stopped by PT looking for an end to the madness, then you're in the right place. Stop riding the hampster wheel. Let's talk about your new life.
(480) 680-7426 View (480) 680-7426
Photo of Beth Sikora, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Sikora
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Do you feel alone? Or shame more than serenity and self-esteem? This can be due to being depressed, loss of someone dear to you, experiencing trauma, an accident, or recovering from cancer. Perhaps your hope and purpose in life is gone or in question. Or your sense of meaning in life uncertain. I will walk along with you as you walk a path to healing and hope as you process this and grow to feel more confident, less depressed or anxious, and life makes sense again. Life can present many difficulties. Together we can find the answer for you.
Do you feel alone? Or shame more than serenity and self-esteem? This can be due to being depressed, loss of someone dear to you, experiencing trauma, an accident, or recovering from cancer. Perhaps your hope and purpose in life is gone or in question. Or your sense of meaning in life uncertain. I will walk along with you as you walk a path to healing and hope as you process this and grow to feel more confident, less depressed or anxious, and life makes sense again. Life can present many difficulties. Together we can find the answer for you.
(480) 568-6567 View (480) 568-6567
Photo of Kimberly Matoka, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Matoka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Taking the first step in counseling can be the most difficult one. I am committed to meeting each individual, couple, or family as unique and with their own journey in the present, from the past, and for the future. I offer a Christian focus to counseling for those who desire this. I am committed to providing a safe environment where clients can experience the freedom to explore their own beliefs and make their own choices regarding life and relationships. Every client, couple, or family brings their own perspective(s), and I look forward to getting to know each individual or system.
Taking the first step in counseling can be the most difficult one. I am committed to meeting each individual, couple, or family as unique and with their own journey in the present, from the past, and for the future. I offer a Christian focus to counseling for those who desire this. I am committed to providing a safe environment where clients can experience the freedom to explore their own beliefs and make their own choices regarding life and relationships. Every client, couple, or family brings their own perspective(s), and I look forward to getting to know each individual or system.
(480) 712-4225 View (480) 712-4225
Photo of Zebunnessa “Zebby” M Ahmed, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zebunnessa “Zebby” M Ahmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Waitlist for new clients
The greatest power we have is our ability to choose one thought over another. It’s not the situation that affects us, it’s our interpretation. Sometimes it’s hard to take control and begin the process of change, but together we can work to bring mental clarity and mindfulness to begin experiencing life in a whole new light. There is resilience in us all and in our darkest moments we lose sight of our capabilities. No matter where you are in your journey, know there is always another way.
The greatest power we have is our ability to choose one thought over another. It’s not the situation that affects us, it’s our interpretation. Sometimes it’s hard to take control and begin the process of change, but together we can work to bring mental clarity and mindfulness to begin experiencing life in a whole new light. There is resilience in us all and in our darkest moments we lose sight of our capabilities. No matter where you are in your journey, know there is always another way.
(480) 685-8844 View (480) 685-8844
Photo of Dr. Eva Miller - ELM Counseling & Consulting, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
ELM Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I specialize in working with seniors, people with dementia, and individuals with chronic illnesses/disabilities. I have extensive experience in relationship problems, sexual issues, and trauma. I believe the primary role of a therapist is to help clients regain a sense of hope. Life can be hard and talking through your issues can help. Instead of a "quick fix" approach, I'll help you figure out the causes of your problems so they don't keep popping up. I'll listen to your story you, help you discover what's getting in the way of your happiness, and support you while you work on the new you.
I specialize in working with seniors, people with dementia, and individuals with chronic illnesses/disabilities. I have extensive experience in relationship problems, sexual issues, and trauma. I believe the primary role of a therapist is to help clients regain a sense of hope. Life can be hard and talking through your issues can help. Instead of a "quick fix" approach, I'll help you figure out the causes of your problems so they don't keep popping up. I'll listen to your story you, help you discover what's getting in the way of your happiness, and support you while you work on the new you.
(602) 666-8720 View (602) 666-8720
Photo of Shanna Sadeh, PhD, LP,  JD, Psychologist
Shanna Sadeh
Psychologist, PhD, LP, JD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Do you feel stuck? Or like your mind keeps playing the same mental record over and again? Do you know what you "should" do but just can't make yourself do it? We don't have to be "sick" to benefit from fine-tuning our internal world and releasing ourselves from past experiences. We can heal wounds from childhood, employment, relationships, internet bullies, or whatever else is draining your energy and holding you back. These wounds can be healed and life can be much better.
Do you feel stuck? Or like your mind keeps playing the same mental record over and again? Do you know what you "should" do but just can't make yourself do it? We don't have to be "sick" to benefit from fine-tuning our internal world and releasing ourselves from past experiences. We can heal wounds from childhood, employment, relationships, internet bullies, or whatever else is draining your energy and holding you back. These wounds can be healed and life can be much better.
(520) 231-7251 View (520) 231-7251
Photo of Linda T Hirsch, PhD, Psychologist
Linda T Hirsch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
My practice is quite diverse. I work with a multitude of issues that invariably all seem to connect somehow. The broad spectrum of issues include anxiety, trauma, depression, interpersonal relationships and interactions self improvement, communication skills, intimacy, grief, loss and addiction. Treatment approaches vary as people are very diverse and different. Frequently I do tend to use Cognitive Behavioral therapy and emotion focused therapy. While focusing on an individuals core strengths. I also address those problems that are interfering with their ability to be the best they can be.
My practice is quite diverse. I work with a multitude of issues that invariably all seem to connect somehow. The broad spectrum of issues include anxiety, trauma, depression, interpersonal relationships and interactions self improvement, communication skills, intimacy, grief, loss and addiction. Treatment approaches vary as people are very diverse and different. Frequently I do tend to use Cognitive Behavioral therapy and emotion focused therapy. While focusing on an individuals core strengths. I also address those problems that are interfering with their ability to be the best they can be.
(602) 663-9781 View (602) 663-9781
Photo of Barry Dubin, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barry Dubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I work with a diverse population in an outpatient setting.
I work with a diverse population in an outpatient setting.
(623) 278-9685 View (623) 278-9685
Photo of Megan Chapman, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
In a world with so much information, making decisions, managing anxiety, and setting boundaries can be difficult. You might feel stuck trying to find a work-self-relationship balance or struggling to connect with your partner or family meaningfully. Choosing therapy as a path to resolving these inner conflicts and relational stress can improve your overall happiness. By identifying your needs and building healthier relationships, you can learn to take concrete steps toward improving your life.
In a world with so much information, making decisions, managing anxiety, and setting boundaries can be difficult. You might feel stuck trying to find a work-self-relationship balance or struggling to connect with your partner or family meaningfully. Choosing therapy as a path to resolving these inner conflicts and relational stress can improve your overall happiness. By identifying your needs and building healthier relationships, you can learn to take concrete steps toward improving your life.
(480) 462-7762 View (480) 462-7762
Photo of Jetzabel Morales Pastrana, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jetzabel Morales Pastrana
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
I'm from Puerto Rico where I became and developed as a therapist specializing in mental health. Then I made the difficult decision to immigrate to the USA to serve to Latinx community; especially the Spanish speakers that, like me, left their countries looking for a better life for themselves and their families. As a Latina therapist, I know how hard it is to grow up in a culture that we love and respect but have aspects that could hurt us as individuals.
I'm from Puerto Rico where I became and developed as a therapist specializing in mental health. Then I made the difficult decision to immigrate to the USA to serve to Latinx community; especially the Spanish speakers that, like me, left their countries looking for a better life for themselves and their families. As a Latina therapist, I know how hard it is to grow up in a culture that we love and respect but have aspects that could hurt us as individuals.
(480) 470-6258 View (480) 470-6258
Photo of Suzi U Wall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzi U Wall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
My name is Suzi Wall and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Social Worker practicing in Arizona since 1985. I trained and work with outstanding practitioners in the areas of Behavioral, Medical, Mental Health, Chronic Illness, Developmental Disabilities, Education, and Geriatric Care. Working with clients from early childhood to end of life. Working in hospitals, school systems, mental-behavioral health agencies, assisted living, and nursing homes. Working as a team with my clients has been a gift as together we identify their concerns, develop treatment plans, and help them move forward with a brighter future.
My name is Suzi Wall and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Social Worker practicing in Arizona since 1985. I trained and work with outstanding practitioners in the areas of Behavioral, Medical, Mental Health, Chronic Illness, Developmental Disabilities, Education, and Geriatric Care. Working with clients from early childhood to end of life. Working in hospitals, school systems, mental-behavioral health agencies, assisted living, and nursing homes. Working as a team with my clients has been a gift as together we identify their concerns, develop treatment plans, and help them move forward with a brighter future.
(602) 833-0823 View (602) 833-0823
Photo of Dr. Julia Colman - Sensory Life Assessment & Wellness; Julia Colman , OTD, OTR/L, BCP, CCTS-I, Occupational Therapist
Sensory Life Assessment & Wellness; Julia Colman
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L, BCP, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Sensory Life was established to help people of all ages develop a happy, balanced lifestyle through increased understanding of their unique sensory processing needs. My services are ideal for those exploring neurodivergence or with known sensory processing differences. Common diagnoses include ADHD, Autism, ADD, OCD, ODD, anxiety, & PTSD, but a diagnosis is not necessary to benefit from services. Parents, educators, & therapists would also benefit. I offer basic & comprehensive sensory evaluations, as well as follow up sessions. The process is personalized, neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, and collaborative.
Sensory Life was established to help people of all ages develop a happy, balanced lifestyle through increased understanding of their unique sensory processing needs. My services are ideal for those exploring neurodivergence or with known sensory processing differences. Common diagnoses include ADHD, Autism, ADD, OCD, ODD, anxiety, & PTSD, but a diagnosis is not necessary to benefit from services. Parents, educators, & therapists would also benefit. I offer basic & comprehensive sensory evaluations, as well as follow up sessions. The process is personalized, neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, and collaborative.
(480) 842-5954 View (480) 842-5954
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 85254

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 85254 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Stress
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
70% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
74% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 85254 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 85254?

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.