Therapists in Washington, DC

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Photo of John Rosas, LICSW, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Rosas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Are you ready to heal, overcome mental health barriers, and make meaningful changes in your life? If you are feeling lost in life, unsatisfied, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, low motivation, burnout, or unhappy and want to find a safe, inviting, and welcoming space for you to start dedicating time to your own healing, and personal growth, then stop waiting and say hello!
Are you ready to heal, overcome mental health barriers, and make meaningful changes in your life? If you are feeling lost in life, unsatisfied, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, low motivation, burnout, or unhappy and want to find a safe, inviting, and welcoming space for you to start dedicating time to your own healing, and personal growth, then stop waiting and say hello!
(202) 335-0649 View (202) 335-0649
Photo of Catie Greene, PhD, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catie Greene
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I think people are really resourceful. Throughout our lives we create strategies to manage and survive our circumstances. Therapy with me means having the space to be curious and explore your current strategies, understand where and how they developed, and to identify which you’d like to adjust to better align to your current life circumstances and what is important to you. I believe that therapy is just one of many ways a person can work on their healing. However, it is an enormously valuable space, and I’d be honored to share it with you.
I think people are really resourceful. Throughout our lives we create strategies to manage and survive our circumstances. Therapy with me means having the space to be curious and explore your current strategies, understand where and how they developed, and to identify which you’d like to adjust to better align to your current life circumstances and what is important to you. I believe that therapy is just one of many ways a person can work on their healing. However, it is an enormously valuable space, and I’d be honored to share it with you.
(833) 563-9938 View (833) 563-9938
Photo of John Weibel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Weibel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Not accepting new clients
[I am not taking new clients] There are times in life when we feel "stuck" and unable to move forward to live the life that we desire and deserve. While it takes strength and courage to reach out for help, the rewards of therapy are life-changing. I assist clients in identifying what may be holding them back. I empower clients to gain insight into underlying issues, heal deep wounds, and master the tools to create the life they desire and deserve. I am passionate about the therapeutic work I do and enjoy forming strong alliances with my clients, partnering with them throughout their personal journey of growth and discovery.
[I am not taking new clients] There are times in life when we feel "stuck" and unable to move forward to live the life that we desire and deserve. While it takes strength and courage to reach out for help, the rewards of therapy are life-changing. I assist clients in identifying what may be holding them back. I empower clients to gain insight into underlying issues, heal deep wounds, and master the tools to create the life they desire and deserve. I am passionate about the therapeutic work I do and enjoy forming strong alliances with my clients, partnering with them throughout their personal journey of growth and discovery.
(202) 873-9801 View (202) 873-9801
Photo of Keltie Hawkins, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keltie Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
(202) 918-4218 View (202) 918-4218
Photo of Allison M. Bondanza, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Allison M. Bondanza
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Dr. Allison Bondanza is a Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist who specializes in assisting couples achieve healthy, satisfying relationships that are rooted in secure attachment. She uses the Psychobiological Approach to Couple's Therapy, a research-driven, holistic therapeutic model that addresses the emotional, cognitive, and biological aspects of romantic relationships. PACT combines the latest insights from neuroscience, attachment theory, and emotion regulation to help couples improve their communication, connection, intimacy and relationship satisfaction. Her approach is designed to empower clients reconnect to each other.
Dr. Allison Bondanza is a Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist who specializes in assisting couples achieve healthy, satisfying relationships that are rooted in secure attachment. She uses the Psychobiological Approach to Couple's Therapy, a research-driven, holistic therapeutic model that addresses the emotional, cognitive, and biological aspects of romantic relationships. PACT combines the latest insights from neuroscience, attachment theory, and emotion regulation to help couples improve their communication, connection, intimacy and relationship satisfaction. Her approach is designed to empower clients reconnect to each other.
(855) 771-5470 View (855) 771-5470
Photo of Deborah P Hecker, PhD, Counselor
Deborah P Hecker
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
(202) 410-2671 View (202) 410-2671
Photo of Andrea Bernad-Barnola, LPC, Counselor
Andrea Bernad-Barnola
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
Navigating young adulthood can feel like a whirlwind—pressures from all sides, uncertainty about the future, and the weight of expectations can be exhausting. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of yourself. Whether it's grappling with your identity, feeling the strain of various relationships, healing from trauma, or battling with body image issues, I understand the unique challenges you face. Together, we'll unpack these struggles and find ways to navigate them with resilience and strength. It's okay to ask for help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way!
Navigating young adulthood can feel like a whirlwind—pressures from all sides, uncertainty about the future, and the weight of expectations can be exhausting. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of yourself. Whether it's grappling with your identity, feeling the strain of various relationships, healing from trauma, or battling with body image issues, I understand the unique challenges you face. Together, we'll unpack these struggles and find ways to navigate them with resilience and strength. It's okay to ask for help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way!
(855) 605-2780 View (855) 605-2780
Photo of Jessica Turpin, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Turpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. Are you feeling overwhelmed by constant worry and feeling stuck in repetitive thinking or behavioral patterns? As a therapist specializing in Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, I am here to support you in learning to detach from those patterns to be able to move towards a free and values-driven life. I also have experience working with a wide range of other challenges and will work with you to meet you where you are at. Together, we will find a therapeutic approach that will work best for you.
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. Are you feeling overwhelmed by constant worry and feeling stuck in repetitive thinking or behavioral patterns? As a therapist specializing in Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, I am here to support you in learning to detach from those patterns to be able to move towards a free and values-driven life. I also have experience working with a wide range of other challenges and will work with you to meet you where you are at. Together, we will find a therapeutic approach that will work best for you.
(855) 607-0185 View (855) 607-0185
Photo of Dr. Ja'lessa Hardwick, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ja'lessa Hardwick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Life is challenging and even though we try, it's often difficult to do it all on own. My goal is to support you in navigating life's challenges by better understanding yourself. Together, we will seek to understand your past experiences and their connection to your current-day behaviors/emotions in an effort to re-envision your future. This is done in a careful way that intentionally considers your individual context (i.e., culture, identity).
Life is challenging and even though we try, it's often difficult to do it all on own. My goal is to support you in navigating life's challenges by better understanding yourself. Together, we will seek to understand your past experiences and their connection to your current-day behaviors/emotions in an effort to re-envision your future. This is done in a careful way that intentionally considers your individual context (i.e., culture, identity).
(202) 952-1110 View (202) 952-1110
Photo of Christine Kalil, LICSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Kalil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010
**Currently accepting adult teletherapy clients** Sometimes, the idea of meeting a new therapist can be a daunting, whether or not it's a person's first time. I do my best to ensure that my office is a welcoming and judgment-free space where clients can feel comfortable sharing about their lives and difficulties. I believe in a person's capacity to heal and grow, and I believe that my role is to facilitate this experience in a way that is unique to each client's personality and strengths.
**Currently accepting adult teletherapy clients** Sometimes, the idea of meeting a new therapist can be a daunting, whether or not it's a person's first time. I do my best to ensure that my office is a welcoming and judgment-free space where clients can feel comfortable sharing about their lives and difficulties. I believe in a person's capacity to heal and grow, and I believe that my role is to facilitate this experience in a way that is unique to each client's personality and strengths.
(202) 335-2859 View (202) 335-2859
Photo of Judson Richardson, MSW, LICSW, CBIS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judson Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CBIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Are you anxious that you might not be able to handle this big life challenge with your physical & emotional wellbeing, authenticity & integrity, and values & serenity still intact? Are you hopeful that maybe, just maybe, you can come out on the other side of it with new growth & wisdom? Are you struggling to navigate life and find fulfillment, love, & belonging as someone who's “different”, even from some of the people & communities you love most? Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, unseen, unheard, or unfulfilled in your relationships? Do you wrestle with inner whispers of shame, and wonder “Am I enough? Am I good enough?"
Are you anxious that you might not be able to handle this big life challenge with your physical & emotional wellbeing, authenticity & integrity, and values & serenity still intact? Are you hopeful that maybe, just maybe, you can come out on the other side of it with new growth & wisdom? Are you struggling to navigate life and find fulfillment, love, & belonging as someone who's “different”, even from some of the people & communities you love most? Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, unseen, unheard, or unfulfilled in your relationships? Do you wrestle with inner whispers of shame, and wonder “Am I enough? Am I good enough?"
(202) 968-3279 View (202) 968-3279
Photo of Megan Flood, MA, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Flood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
For more than 23 years, I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
For more than 23 years, I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
(202) 851-8367 View (202) 851-8367
Photo of Debra Zatz, MS, LICSW, BCPsa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Zatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW, BCPsa
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I treat individuals and couples who present with a range of needs, from debilitating eating disorders to mild anxiety and to issues that cannot be described in five words or less. I see the whole person rather than a group of symptoms with the recognition that people are complex and that most of us have difficulties in one or more areas of our lives. I work to help people become more integrated which, I believe, helps them lead more fulfilling lives. Life isn't so easy sometimes, but through insight change is possible.
I treat individuals and couples who present with a range of needs, from debilitating eating disorders to mild anxiety and to issues that cannot be described in five words or less. I see the whole person rather than a group of symptoms with the recognition that people are complex and that most of us have difficulties in one or more areas of our lives. I work to help people become more integrated which, I believe, helps them lead more fulfilling lives. Life isn't so easy sometimes, but through insight change is possible.
(202) 643-9909 View (202) 643-9909
Photo of Rebecca Hrabec, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Hrabec
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Hi, I am a clinical therapist in Washington DC (IRL/virtual) & MD (virtual). I primarily work with individuals over the age of 6 (adults, teens, children), families, and couples. Many of my clients come in to address anxiety, depression, work stress, and parenting/relationship issues. I have advanced training in the areas of Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Oppositional/Defiance DO, Adjustment DO, Depression, Mood DO, and OCD.
Hi, I am a clinical therapist in Washington DC (IRL/virtual) & MD (virtual). I primarily work with individuals over the age of 6 (adults, teens, children), families, and couples. Many of my clients come in to address anxiety, depression, work stress, and parenting/relationship issues. I have advanced training in the areas of Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Oppositional/Defiance DO, Adjustment DO, Depression, Mood DO, and OCD.
(202) 946-1568 View (202) 946-1568
Photo of Leyla M. Kenny, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leyla M. Kenny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
With over 20 years of experience, I provide psychotherapy for adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, and interpersonal issues. I am on faculty at The Catholic University of America and the Washington School of Psychiatry where I continuously both learn and teach the latest findings in effective therapy.
With over 20 years of experience, I provide psychotherapy for adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, and interpersonal issues. I am on faculty at The Catholic University of America and the Washington School of Psychiatry where I continuously both learn and teach the latest findings in effective therapy.
(202) 559-4261 View (202) 559-4261
Photo of Nicole A Engel - DC Stress & Anxiety Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
DC Stress & Anxiety Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious and stressed? Do you have panic attacks? Do you feel parts of your life are out of control? If you live or work in the DMV area, you are very familiar with stress and anxiety. Chances are your work-life balance isn't at all balanced. Maybe you are a perfectionist always trying to do more. Maybe you are a people pleaser who struggles to say "No". Meaningful pursuits such as fulfilling relationships, staying healthy and personal interests can be hard to maintain. All these factors can intensify your level of stress and anxiety. There are a number of things we can do together to help you with these issues.
Are you feeling anxious and stressed? Do you have panic attacks? Do you feel parts of your life are out of control? If you live or work in the DMV area, you are very familiar with stress and anxiety. Chances are your work-life balance isn't at all balanced. Maybe you are a perfectionist always trying to do more. Maybe you are a people pleaser who struggles to say "No". Meaningful pursuits such as fulfilling relationships, staying healthy and personal interests can be hard to maintain. All these factors can intensify your level of stress and anxiety. There are a number of things we can do together to help you with these issues.
(202) 999-3892 View (202) 999-3892
Photo of Alisa Schwartz, PhD, Psychologist
Alisa Schwartz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I am a clinical psychologist practicing for over 20 years. I have a lot of experience treating men and women facing a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues, work stresses, and life transitions. I have training in various treatment modalities including psychodynamic, CBT, and DBT and tailor my treatment to your needs. In general, I try to understand the origins of the problem and teach practical techniques for making improvements. I have a warm, interactive and collaborative style and will work with you to make positive changes in your life.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing for over 20 years. I have a lot of experience treating men and women facing a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues, work stresses, and life transitions. I have training in various treatment modalities including psychodynamic, CBT, and DBT and tailor my treatment to your needs. In general, I try to understand the origins of the problem and teach practical techniques for making improvements. I have a warm, interactive and collaborative style and will work with you to make positive changes in your life.
(202) 517-7708 View (202) 517-7708
Photo of Colleen Sandick, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Sandick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My caseload is full of dynamic and wonderful clients who seek to change the way they relate to themselves, their life circumstances, and their relationships. I have a particular interest working with recovering alcoholics actively working their 12-step program but are "just feeling stuck". In addition, I especially enjoy supporting women seeking to be authentic to themselves and those around them. Together, we will identify your goals and I will support you in pursuing your personal growth, finding your own answers and balance, and identifying and resolving how your past may be unconsciously impacting your day-to-day life.
My caseload is full of dynamic and wonderful clients who seek to change the way they relate to themselves, their life circumstances, and their relationships. I have a particular interest working with recovering alcoholics actively working their 12-step program but are "just feeling stuck". In addition, I especially enjoy supporting women seeking to be authentic to themselves and those around them. Together, we will identify your goals and I will support you in pursuing your personal growth, finding your own answers and balance, and identifying and resolving how your past may be unconsciously impacting your day-to-day life.
(202) 796-7699 View (202) 796-7699
Photo of Sari Meltzer, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sari Meltzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I offer services throughout DC, MD, and VA. I specialize in providing support to individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, and those who want to improve their relationship with food and their body. While challenges with food and body may be what brings a client to see me, I know that these struggles do not exist in a vacuum. This is why I take a holistic approach and support my clients in exploring and learning ways to cope with anxiety, depression, relational conflict, trauma symptoms and other life challenges. In addition to working with client's with eating disorders, I offer Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
I offer services throughout DC, MD, and VA. I specialize in providing support to individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, and those who want to improve their relationship with food and their body. While challenges with food and body may be what brings a client to see me, I know that these struggles do not exist in a vacuum. This is why I take a holistic approach and support my clients in exploring and learning ways to cope with anxiety, depression, relational conflict, trauma symptoms and other life challenges. In addition to working with client's with eating disorders, I offer Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
(202) 952-6235 View (202) 952-6235
Photo of Matthew R Schottland, PsyD, Psychologist
Matthew R Schottland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
(732) 751-4552 View (732) 751-4552
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Washington, DC

3,000+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
68% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

63% BlueCross and BlueShield
57% CareFirst
54% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Washington, DC see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Washington?

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.