Therapists in Northborough, MA

Photo of Heather B McGregor, LMHC, Counselor
Heather B McGregor
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone is capable of helping themselves. Its about making small changes or a change in perspective that can have a big impact on your life. I am here to help guide you. I specialize in working with young adults who have experienced trauma. Trauma has a way of affecting every aspect of a person's life until it has taken over. I specialize in helping you take back that control.
I believe that everyone is capable of helping themselves. Its about making small changes or a change in perspective that can have a big impact on your life. I am here to help guide you. I specialize in working with young adults who have experienced trauma. Trauma has a way of affecting every aspect of a person's life until it has taken over. I specialize in helping you take back that control.
(774) 268-5633 View (774) 268-5633
Photo of Jeffrey Germain, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Germain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. We come to therapy seeking understanding and relief. During our time together, you can expect emotional support and resilience skill building. As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 15 years experience in the field of social work, I work together with my clients to help them reach a higher version of themselves. Much of our suffering and distress comes from our relationships. When we focus on compassion for self and others, life becomes more helpful and fulfilling.
Accepting New Clients. We come to therapy seeking understanding and relief. During our time together, you can expect emotional support and resilience skill building. As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 15 years experience in the field of social work, I work together with my clients to help them reach a higher version of themselves. Much of our suffering and distress comes from our relationships. When we focus on compassion for self and others, life becomes more helpful and fulfilling.
(508) 406-9488 View (508) 406-9488
Photo of Jill Kastal, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Kastal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
I have spent the past 10+ years working in a variety of mental health settings including residential care, emergency services, crisis stabilization, applied behavior analysis, and outpatient individual/family therapy. I have extensive experience helping a diverse range of populations including those struggling with severe mental illness, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, substance use, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, suicidality, and impulse control disorders. I specialize in working with children/adolescents, families, and young adults but enjoy serving people of all ages.
I have spent the past 10+ years working in a variety of mental health settings including residential care, emergency services, crisis stabilization, applied behavior analysis, and outpatient individual/family therapy. I have extensive experience helping a diverse range of populations including those struggling with severe mental illness, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, substance use, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, suicidality, and impulse control disorders. I specialize in working with children/adolescents, families, and young adults but enjoy serving people of all ages.
(508) 393-2731 View (508) 393-2731
Photo of Dr. Peter Gagliardo, PhD
Dr. Peter Gagliardo
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Now accepting self-paying clients at Worcester Holistic Health & Wellness. Meet Dr. Peter Gagliardo—your fast track to an extraordinary life. Dr. Gagliardo isn't just a therapist or consultant; he blends mindfulness with a holistic approach to help you build meaningful relationships, discover your life's purpose, and achieve laser-sharp focus. No need for titles or jargon—just you, ready for change. Want a breakthrough? Let's connect and start your transformation.
Now accepting self-paying clients at Worcester Holistic Health & Wellness. Meet Dr. Peter Gagliardo—your fast track to an extraordinary life. Dr. Gagliardo isn't just a therapist or consultant; he blends mindfulness with a holistic approach to help you build meaningful relationships, discover your life's purpose, and achieve laser-sharp focus. No need for titles or jargon—just you, ready for change. Want a breakthrough? Let's connect and start your transformation.
(508) 372-8494 View (508) 372-8494
Photo of Rose Doan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rose Doan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and diagnoses. Some of these include depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. I have been trained in various treatment modalities such as CBT and DBT. My approach is person-centered, and strengths based. I am passionate about utilizing humor and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. I have experience in outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with high-risk adolescents in psychiatric care, provided individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, and have experience in substance use and addiction running psycho-educational group therapy
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and diagnoses. Some of these include depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. I have been trained in various treatment modalities such as CBT and DBT. My approach is person-centered, and strengths based. I am passionate about utilizing humor and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. I have experience in outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with high-risk adolescents in psychiatric care, provided individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, and have experience in substance use and addiction running psycho-educational group therapy
(508) 393-2731 View (508) 393-2731
Melissa West, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
It is my belief that everyone is doing the best they can within their current abilities. As a therapist, I am here to provide validation and acceptance of your current abilities, and offer resources, support and collaboration in an effort to build on those skills and abilities. It is my goal to meet every patient where they are at and work with them to get them to where they want to be. I believe that tending to mental health in a judgment free environment is essential for personal growth and self-care, and that is the environment that I offer to each and every individual that I work with.
It is my belief that everyone is doing the best they can within their current abilities. As a therapist, I am here to provide validation and acceptance of your current abilities, and offer resources, support and collaboration in an effort to build on those skills and abilities. It is my goal to meet every patient where they are at and work with them to get them to where they want to be. I believe that tending to mental health in a judgment free environment is essential for personal growth and self-care, and that is the environment that I offer to each and every individual that I work with.
(508) 978-5566 View (508) 978-5566
Photo of Deborah Golden - Northborough Counseling Services, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Northborough Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
Individuals and couples, children and adults, who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, attention deficits, impulsivity, and interpersonal problems often benefit from mental health counseling. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidenced based practice used to reduce these symptoms and conflicts. Long term and short term counseling can provide coping strategies and knowledge for clients to better function in life.
Individuals and couples, children and adults, who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, attention deficits, impulsivity, and interpersonal problems often benefit from mental health counseling. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidenced based practice used to reduce these symptoms and conflicts. Long term and short term counseling can provide coping strategies and knowledge for clients to better function in life.
(508) 257-7423 View (508) 257-7423
Photo of Jared Manteuffel, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jared Manteuffel
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
I'm passionate about working with people who are finding life to be overwhelming and exhausting. Maybe you're heartbroken over loss, burdened with guilt, feeling you'll never be good enough, are scared, or at wits' end. Or maybe something happened to you, and it sticks with you giving you no rest. When we feel this way, we tend to isolate, berate ourselves, and spiral in our thinking or distract ourselves from these debilitating feelings. You're not alone. These feelings and responses are common, and there are evidence-based treatments to help you take the helm and steer your own ship in life.
I'm passionate about working with people who are finding life to be overwhelming and exhausting. Maybe you're heartbroken over loss, burdened with guilt, feeling you'll never be good enough, are scared, or at wits' end. Or maybe something happened to you, and it sticks with you giving you no rest. When we feel this way, we tend to isolate, berate ourselves, and spiral in our thinking or distract ourselves from these debilitating feelings. You're not alone. These feelings and responses are common, and there are evidence-based treatments to help you take the helm and steer your own ship in life.
(508) 618-5736 View (508) 618-5736
Photo of Adam M Volungis, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Adam M Volungis
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Not accepting new clients
***NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** My overarching approach is Relationship-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I find that integrating CBT with key therapeutic relationship factors such as validation, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness produce the best outcomes. When appropriate, I also utilize such approaches as mindfulness, acceptance, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills, and Trauma-Focused CBT and Prolonged Exposure for trauma. My goal is to not only reduce the distress from your presenting problems but also improve your overall well-being and experience personal growth across many facets of life.
***NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** My overarching approach is Relationship-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I find that integrating CBT with key therapeutic relationship factors such as validation, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness produce the best outcomes. When appropriate, I also utilize such approaches as mindfulness, acceptance, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills, and Trauma-Focused CBT and Prolonged Exposure for trauma. My goal is to not only reduce the distress from your presenting problems but also improve your overall well-being and experience personal growth across many facets of life.
(508) 348-7162 View (508) 348-7162
Photo of Matthew Waugh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Waugh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Not accepting new clients
My ideal clients are couples and individuals struggling in relationship. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I chose this profession because I find helping couples very rewarding. I support clients working through the struggles of not feeling understood, feeling attacked and judged. I teach them how to step back and get curious about each other. As couples begin to understand each other better, the disconnection and discouragement shifts, connection deepens and they learn to work together. I work with them to develop tools for better communication and conflict resolution.
My ideal clients are couples and individuals struggling in relationship. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and I chose this profession because I find helping couples very rewarding. I support clients working through the struggles of not feeling understood, feeling attacked and judged. I teach them how to step back and get curious about each other. As couples begin to understand each other better, the disconnection and discouragement shifts, connection deepens and they learn to work together. I work with them to develop tools for better communication and conflict resolution.
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Photo of Casey M Rickli, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Casey M Rickli
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
A happier life is within reach when we are able to let go of old behaviors and ways of thinking. Maybe you are feeling anxious, depressed or stuck in your life. You want to improve your relationships with yourself and those that you love. With curiosity and humor, I strive to create a safe, supportive and non-judgmental partnership with clients to promote healing, growth and change.
A happier life is within reach when we are able to let go of old behaviors and ways of thinking. Maybe you are feeling anxious, depressed or stuck in your life. You want to improve your relationships with yourself and those that you love. With curiosity and humor, I strive to create a safe, supportive and non-judgmental partnership with clients to promote healing, growth and change.
(774) 214-2688 View (774) 214-2688
Photo of Nicole Phillips, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
Whether you are facing a situational challenge, struggling with a longstanding problem, or stuck in a place you can no longer bear; a therapeutic relationship can help change your life. There are many difficult things in life but getting support and guidance should not be one of them. I am an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of success working with people to make their dreams a reality. I specialize in working with adults, couples and families to explore areas of their lives that are challenging. We work together to achieve growth, connection and happiness. Change can happen!
Whether you are facing a situational challenge, struggling with a longstanding problem, or stuck in a place you can no longer bear; a therapeutic relationship can help change your life. There are many difficult things in life but getting support and guidance should not be one of them. I am an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of success working with people to make their dreams a reality. I specialize in working with adults, couples and families to explore areas of their lives that are challenging. We work together to achieve growth, connection and happiness. Change can happen!
(508) 286-7744 View (508) 286-7744
Photo of Eugenia Garbolevsky, MA,  , PhD
Eugenia Garbolevsky
MA, , PhD
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
Besides being personally transformed by the healing touch of mindfulness, yoga, meditation and other modalities related to the integrative and holistic approach, I enjoy helping others to appreciate the transformational touch of modalities focusing on the mind-body connection. In my practice, I combine techniques, such as mindfulness, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, meditation, yoga, somatic therapy, psychoanalysis, and, (in the near future) hypnotherapy, in order to determine which combination will best meet my client’s needs.
Besides being personally transformed by the healing touch of mindfulness, yoga, meditation and other modalities related to the integrative and holistic approach, I enjoy helping others to appreciate the transformational touch of modalities focusing on the mind-body connection. In my practice, I combine techniques, such as mindfulness, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, meditation, yoga, somatic therapy, psychoanalysis, and, (in the near future) hypnotherapy, in order to determine which combination will best meet my client’s needs.
(508) 715-8720 View (508) 715-8720
Photo of Matthew Zaterka Going Places Counseling, LMHC, M Ed, Counselor
Matthew Zaterka Going Places Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, M Ed
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
Waitlist for new clients
When it comes to working with adolescents and young adults, I offer experience as both a clinical therapist and a school counselor providing an in-depth, comprehensive understanding of the challenges and issues facing this stage of life. As a specialist in adolescent and young adult mental health, I draw on the extensive knowledge, training, and direct experience I have gained from over 20 years as a school counselor and over 14 years as a therapist. It is this comprehensive background that I provide in working with a wide range of mental health and school-based challenges and issues.
When it comes to working with adolescents and young adults, I offer experience as both a clinical therapist and a school counselor providing an in-depth, comprehensive understanding of the challenges and issues facing this stage of life. As a specialist in adolescent and young adult mental health, I draw on the extensive knowledge, training, and direct experience I have gained from over 20 years as a school counselor and over 14 years as a therapist. It is this comprehensive background that I provide in working with a wide range of mental health and school-based challenges and issues.
(508) 571-5399 View (508) 571-5399
Photo of Rachel Gaillard Smook, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Gaillard Smook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
I believe that coming to therapy when your life is not proceeding in the way you wish is a courageous and important step in building the life you want. Although it is sometimes difficult or frightening to make that first phone call, it's a strong sign of your belief in yourself and your desire to live fully and joyfully. I respect the decision to begin therapy and understand that it's sometimes a hard step that requires great courage. I firmly believe that however you're feeling now, there is a capacity for healing, change, and joy within you.
I believe that coming to therapy when your life is not proceeding in the way you wish is a courageous and important step in building the life you want. Although it is sometimes difficult or frightening to make that first phone call, it's a strong sign of your belief in yourself and your desire to live fully and joyfully. I respect the decision to begin therapy and understand that it's sometimes a hard step that requires great courage. I firmly believe that however you're feeling now, there is a capacity for healing, change, and joy within you.
(508) 925-0530 View (508) 925-0530
Photo of Jennifer F Spirito, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer F Spirito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My practice focuses on working with women ages 18+ to enhance overall well-being. I work with clients in the areas of anxiety disorders, adjustment to life transitions/stressors, relationship/marital issues and depression. My experience encompass the areas related to college readiness/preparation, pre- and post-college transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-image/self-esteem, relationship conflicts, academic stress, and bereavement. I am invested in working with my clients to provide them with the tools and skills to achieve their personal goals and improve overall sense of well-being.
My practice focuses on working with women ages 18+ to enhance overall well-being. I work with clients in the areas of anxiety disorders, adjustment to life transitions/stressors, relationship/marital issues and depression. My experience encompass the areas related to college readiness/preparation, pre- and post-college transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-image/self-esteem, relationship conflicts, academic stress, and bereavement. I am invested in working with my clients to provide them with the tools and skills to achieve their personal goals and improve overall sense of well-being.
(508) 802-5273 View (508) 802-5273
Photo of Anna Munro, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Munro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
You’ve realized you’re drinking or getting high more than you planned to and more than you want to but don’t know how to stop. The shame is dragging you down and you’re too embarrassed to admit you have a "problem." People in your life are concerned and want to offer help but what they’re offering just isn’t what you think you need. You might be numbing how you feel about letting things get to this point and not being able to change. Maybe someone else thinks your behavior is a problem and as much as you’d rather just get them off your back, there’s a part of you that’s starting to agree and wondering what you can do about it.
You’ve realized you’re drinking or getting high more than you planned to and more than you want to but don’t know how to stop. The shame is dragging you down and you’re too embarrassed to admit you have a "problem." People in your life are concerned and want to offer help but what they’re offering just isn’t what you think you need. You might be numbing how you feel about letting things get to this point and not being able to change. Maybe someone else thinks your behavior is a problem and as much as you’d rather just get them off your back, there’s a part of you that’s starting to agree and wondering what you can do about it.
(508) 413-2249 View (508) 413-2249
Photo of Julie Y Winnick - Julie Y Winnick, MA LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Julie Y Winnick, MA LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532  (Online Only)
My empathic and supportive nature allows me to build productive therapeutic relationships in which clients discover paths to surpass their obstacles. I coordinate my expertise with clients' style of coping in order to create action strategies that best suit their needs. I find it important for my clients to feel they are empowered in their treatment, in turn feeling a sense of pride and renewal in their lives. I work with clients to find a balance in their lives by focusing on themselves, emotionally, physically and intellectually.
My empathic and supportive nature allows me to build productive therapeutic relationships in which clients discover paths to surpass their obstacles. I coordinate my expertise with clients' style of coping in order to create action strategies that best suit their needs. I find it important for my clients to feel they are empowered in their treatment, in turn feeling a sense of pride and renewal in their lives. I work with clients to find a balance in their lives by focusing on themselves, emotionally, physically and intellectually.
(978) 956-0990 View (978) 956-0990
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Hamelin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Elizabeth Hamelin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Immediate openings for adult clients with flexibility! Pause Wellness Center is the group practice owned by Sarah Hamelin, LICSW. We have amazing clinicians that work with adults, adolescents and couples. The goal of Pause Wellness Center is to provide excellent therapy services for all clients. Every therapist at Pause Wellness Center has their own style and you will be matched to someone that meets your specific needs. We use evidence-base practices and we enjoy providing psycho-education and celebrating successes.
Immediate openings for adult clients with flexibility! Pause Wellness Center is the group practice owned by Sarah Hamelin, LICSW. We have amazing clinicians that work with adults, adolescents and couples. The goal of Pause Wellness Center is to provide excellent therapy services for all clients. Every therapist at Pause Wellness Center has their own style and you will be matched to someone that meets your specific needs. We use evidence-base practices and we enjoy providing psycho-education and celebrating successes.
(508) 393-2731 View (508) 393-2731
Photo of Kathryn Portnow, MEd, EdD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kathryn Portnow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, EdD
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
I enjoy working with adults ranging in age from young adults to elders. I counsel people who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, transition and phase of life issues, relationship problems, attachment and relational trauma. A deep clinical interest is helping adults navigate their own and their loved ones’ later life challenges associated with aging such as: multiple losses, changes in important relationships, caregiver stress, and changing family roles. I am also passionate about working with and helping people struggling with grief and loss.
I enjoy working with adults ranging in age from young adults to elders. I counsel people who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, transition and phase of life issues, relationship problems, attachment and relational trauma. A deep clinical interest is helping adults navigate their own and their loved ones’ later life challenges associated with aging such as: multiple losses, changes in important relationships, caregiver stress, and changing family roles. I am also passionate about working with and helping people struggling with grief and loss.
(508) 393-2731 View (508) 393-2731
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Northborough, MA

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Northborough, MA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
87% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
69% Coping Skills
69% Self Esteem
65% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Optum
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Northborough, MA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Northborough?

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.