Therapists in Encinitas, CA

Photo of Christina Wafer, PhD, Psychologist
Christina Wafer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Dr. Christina. Do you have a hard time regulating your emotions? Are you struggling to find meaning and value in life? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? How are your relationships with others? I am a licensed clinical psychologist with several years of experience working in clinical psychology settings, ranging from an inpatient psychiatric hospital to a women's residential substance use disorder treatment program. I help people who are easily overwhelmed to learn distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we can strategize about what to do to help you to manage your emotions.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Christina. Do you have a hard time regulating your emotions? Are you struggling to find meaning and value in life? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? How are your relationships with others? I am a licensed clinical psychologist with several years of experience working in clinical psychology settings, ranging from an inpatient psychiatric hospital to a women's residential substance use disorder treatment program. I help people who are easily overwhelmed to learn distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we can strategize about what to do to help you to manage your emotions.
(760) 313-7880 View (760) 313-7880
Photo of Emily Wilson-Nguyen, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emily Wilson-Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Seeking out support for yourself or for your child is a courageous act, and one that is full of hope. Childhood and parenting can be tremendously challenging, and you do not need to figure out all of the pieces alone. I would be honored to work alongside you, providing a safe environment to share your story, gently face and move through challenges, and develop solutions that will bring you and your child relief and allow you both to thrive.
Seeking out support for yourself or for your child is a courageous act, and one that is full of hope. Childhood and parenting can be tremendously challenging, and you do not need to figure out all of the pieces alone. I would be honored to work alongside you, providing a safe environment to share your story, gently face and move through challenges, and develop solutions that will bring you and your child relief and allow you both to thrive.
(858) 758-9117 View (858) 758-9117
Photo of Michelle Dexter, PsyD, NLPCC
Michelle Dexter
PsyD, NLPCC
Not Verified Not Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Life can be challenging at times, and it can be good to know that someone is on your side. If you are looking for love, but it seems impossible to find, if you are having trouble in your romantic relationship, if you are dealing with a difficult ex-partner, or you are experiencing sexual challenges, my passion is to help you experience your best life.
Life can be challenging at times, and it can be good to know that someone is on your side. If you are looking for love, but it seems impossible to find, if you are having trouble in your romantic relationship, if you are dealing with a difficult ex-partner, or you are experiencing sexual challenges, my passion is to help you experience your best life.
(619) 350-2440 View (619) 350-2440
Photo of Louisa Lurkis, PhD, Psychologist
Louisa Lurkis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
There is no way around the fact that life throws ongoing curve balls, and sometimes those balls feel enormously overwhelming. I see therapy as a means to help people move through their suffering and finds better ways to experience their life and develop aspects of their brain that equip them to feel more joy, inner comfort, inner integration and meaning. I work empathically to build awareness of repetitive patterns, gain relief from emotional pain and help build deeper connections to oneself and others. My careful use of attunement and connecting one's core self to younger "parts" of the mind creates deep change.
There is no way around the fact that life throws ongoing curve balls, and sometimes those balls feel enormously overwhelming. I see therapy as a means to help people move through their suffering and finds better ways to experience their life and develop aspects of their brain that equip them to feel more joy, inner comfort, inner integration and meaning. I work empathically to build awareness of repetitive patterns, gain relief from emotional pain and help build deeper connections to oneself and others. My careful use of attunement and connecting one's core self to younger "parts" of the mind creates deep change.
(760) 642-1560 View (760) 642-1560
Photo of Kevin Murphy, PsyD, Psychologist
Kevin Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024  (Online Only)
Relying on more than 15 years of clinical experience, I treat depression, anxiety, and addictions, among other issues. While I utilize evidence-based treatments, I practice from a client-centered perspective. My approach rests on compassion, as I fundamentally practice from a humanistic slant. I go to great lengths to avoid the type of stigmatizing language that especially plagues the addiction industry. There are no "addicts."
Relying on more than 15 years of clinical experience, I treat depression, anxiety, and addictions, among other issues. While I utilize evidence-based treatments, I practice from a client-centered perspective. My approach rests on compassion, as I fundamentally practice from a humanistic slant. I go to great lengths to avoid the type of stigmatizing language that especially plagues the addiction industry. There are no "addicts."
(858) 346-5943 View (858) 346-5943
Photo of Tiffany Liz Rudashevsky, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tiffany Liz Rudashevsky
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
My passion as a therapist is to help people feel less misunderstood and more empowered, less stifled and more fully themselves. I use a mindfulness-focused, strengths-based approach to help people get to the root of their problems and untangle subconscious conditioning that no longer serves them. Healing is an ongoing journey of becoming conscious of the parts of ourselves we often resist meeting. Together we will dive deep to address the symptoms and patterns that arose as coping mechanisms formed in early childhood development that may be preventing you from experiencing life to your fullest potential.
My passion as a therapist is to help people feel less misunderstood and more empowered, less stifled and more fully themselves. I use a mindfulness-focused, strengths-based approach to help people get to the root of their problems and untangle subconscious conditioning that no longer serves them. Healing is an ongoing journey of becoming conscious of the parts of ourselves we often resist meeting. Together we will dive deep to address the symptoms and patterns that arose as coping mechanisms formed in early childhood development that may be preventing you from experiencing life to your fullest potential.
(760) 227-5082 View (760) 227-5082
Photo of Victoria Shaw, PhD, NCC, Counselor
Victoria Shaw
Counselor, PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I am an intuitive coach and spiritual guide. My work combines my background and training in counseling and psychology with intuitive guidance to help clients heal, grow, and realize their full spiritual and personal potential. For years, I have supported children, teens and adults in connecting with their spiritual wisdom and enhancing all aspects of their lives. I can teach you how to tap into your inner resources, and help you to find strength, clarity and growth through your life’s challenges. I help you in healing your deepest hurts and connecting with your own inner healer.
I am an intuitive coach and spiritual guide. My work combines my background and training in counseling and psychology with intuitive guidance to help clients heal, grow, and realize their full spiritual and personal potential. For years, I have supported children, teens and adults in connecting with their spiritual wisdom and enhancing all aspects of their lives. I can teach you how to tap into your inner resources, and help you to find strength, clarity and growth through your life’s challenges. I help you in healing your deepest hurts and connecting with your own inner healer.
(619) 492-5612 View (619) 492-5612
Photo of Nathan Kyle Simmons, PsyD, Psychologist
Nathan Kyle Simmons
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I have been working in psychology for 11 years. I truly love that my profession allows me to help people. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with individuals who are struggling, but are still able to allow me the privilege of assisting with their healing. I strongly believe that a central element to healing is the therapeutic relationship. This relationship is made primary in treatment to provide safety and the space necessary to process one's pain. It is the combination of a strong therapeutic relationship and the emotional space it affords, that allows significant healing to occur.
I have been working in psychology for 11 years. I truly love that my profession allows me to help people. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with individuals who are struggling, but are still able to allow me the privilege of assisting with their healing. I strongly believe that a central element to healing is the therapeutic relationship. This relationship is made primary in treatment to provide safety and the space necessary to process one's pain. It is the combination of a strong therapeutic relationship and the emotional space it affords, that allows significant healing to occur.
(760) 313-3645 View (760) 313-3645
Photo of Colette D Sinclair, PhD, IMMHC, Psychologist
Colette D Sinclair
Psychologist, PhD, IMMHC
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
As an Integrative Psychologist, I offer a holistic treatment model that leads to psychological, emotional, and energetic health, utilizing such approaches as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychonutrition.
As an Integrative Psychologist, I offer a holistic treatment model that leads to psychological, emotional, and energetic health, utilizing such approaches as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychonutrition.
(760) 924-9739 View (760) 924-9739
Photo of Rick Erlien, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rick Erlien
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024  (Online Only)
I offer Creative Counseling to help you to feel happier, more successful and feeling better. Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Music Therapy Sound Healing approaches are what I utilize. I use Zoom or telephone for sessions. I offer a results oriented approach for practical results for you to have a happy life. In the first session we can identify what are the issues and what solutions to the issues can be addressed if you are feeling stressed or anxious or feeing down or depressed. I can help you to know what to do and how to fix what is wrong.
I offer Creative Counseling to help you to feel happier, more successful and feeling better. Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Music Therapy Sound Healing approaches are what I utilize. I use Zoom or telephone for sessions. I offer a results oriented approach for practical results for you to have a happy life. In the first session we can identify what are the issues and what solutions to the issues can be addressed if you are feeling stressed or anxious or feeing down or depressed. I can help you to know what to do and how to fix what is wrong.
(760) 906-8731 View (760) 906-8731
Photo of Debra M. Halliday - The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness, PsyD, Psychologist
The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Seeking a therapist can be a daunting task. Our therapists strive to help our clients achieve the personal growth and healing goals that they are reaching for, and to provide a warm, safe, and supportive atmosphere for that growth and healing to occur. Clarity, centeredness, and happiness are realistic goals to strive for. Our therapists are dedicated to helping people understand the causes of their problems and, to either solve those problems or, to come to peace with them. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors struggling with a wide variety of issues and concerns.
Seeking a therapist can be a daunting task. Our therapists strive to help our clients achieve the personal growth and healing goals that they are reaching for, and to provide a warm, safe, and supportive atmosphere for that growth and healing to occur. Clarity, centeredness, and happiness are realistic goals to strive for. Our therapists are dedicated to helping people understand the causes of their problems and, to either solve those problems or, to come to peace with them. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors struggling with a wide variety of issues and concerns.
(760) 635-3310 View (760) 635-3310
Photo of Tara L Vincent Davidson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara L Vincent Davidson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Life can become quite a mess- sometimes you know why it's happened and sometimes you don't. Therapy can help. Are you having trouble with your relationship? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are your kids struggling and you feel lost? These are just a few of the questions we can work on in therapy. Discussing your situation honestly and directly, we create a plan to help you feel better and be better equipped to manage whatever life hands you.The tools acquired in therapy will assist you throughout your life. Sessions center around your needs and the goals you wish to accomplish.
Life can become quite a mess- sometimes you know why it's happened and sometimes you don't. Therapy can help. Are you having trouble with your relationship? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are your kids struggling and you feel lost? These are just a few of the questions we can work on in therapy. Discussing your situation honestly and directly, we create a plan to help you feel better and be better equipped to manage whatever life hands you.The tools acquired in therapy will assist you throughout your life. Sessions center around your needs and the goals you wish to accomplish.
(760) 970-8209 View (760) 970-8209
Photo of Jan O Wagman, PhD, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan O Wagman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
When your life isn’t what you want it to be – Is less fulfilling and satisfying then it should be –– Might be burdened with sadness or depression -- I offer guidance, support and comfort in a safe healing environment that can help turn your life around. Help you discover how wondrous it is to find the emotional strength and freedom you need to recognize then pursue -- and finally realize your full potential
When your life isn’t what you want it to be – Is less fulfilling and satisfying then it should be –– Might be burdened with sadness or depression -- I offer guidance, support and comfort in a safe healing environment that can help turn your life around. Help you discover how wondrous it is to find the emotional strength and freedom you need to recognize then pursue -- and finally realize your full potential
(760) 652-3445 View (760) 652-3445
Photo of Dr. Casey Adamson, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Dr. Casey Adamson
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
I help clients with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, trauma and more! I specialize in helping reduce symptoms measurably over time so clients can continue living happy and healthy lives. A few of my specialty areas include couples and family counseling.
I help clients with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, trauma and more! I specialize in helping reduce symptoms measurably over time so clients can continue living happy and healthy lives. A few of my specialty areas include couples and family counseling.
(619) 949-2372 View (619) 949-2372
Photo of Federico G Anguiano - Somatic Science Nervous System Regulation, SEP, CQM, MA
Somatic Science Nervous System Regulation
SEP, CQM, MA
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
The essence of this approach Somatic Science (R) is highly effective at supporting your nervous system to become regulated, relaxed and harmonized with itself & the external environment. This approach helps you to develop a basic capacity for self-attunement and self-regulation, which are essential for satisfying relationships with yourself and others.  Ultimately, this approach can result in a depth and breadth of self-discovery, presence, joy and peace that most spiritual traditions claim to be extremely rare. ​The aim of our approach is to enjoy life with happiness; no more and no less. Our physiology is at the core of happiness.
The essence of this approach Somatic Science (R) is highly effective at supporting your nervous system to become regulated, relaxed and harmonized with itself & the external environment. This approach helps you to develop a basic capacity for self-attunement and self-regulation, which are essential for satisfying relationships with yourself and others.  Ultimately, this approach can result in a depth and breadth of self-discovery, presence, joy and peace that most spiritual traditions claim to be extremely rare. ​The aim of our approach is to enjoy life with happiness; no more and no less. Our physiology is at the core of happiness.
(760) 840-2074 View (760) 840-2074
Photo of Terence l Shigg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terence l Shigg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I am passionate about affecting change in others and I believe that by helping people change their beliefs you can help them change their lives. My ultimate goal is to give you the tools you need so that you don't need me! I have worked with client's from many different cultures and backgrounds and I would be delighted to work with you! I love people and have been gifted with the ability to connect with and reach almost anyone. I believe in doing what works for the individual. Therapy is about making you stronger not making me feel smarter.
I am passionate about affecting change in others and I believe that by helping people change their beliefs you can help them change their lives. My ultimate goal is to give you the tools you need so that you don't need me! I have worked with client's from many different cultures and backgrounds and I would be delighted to work with you! I love people and have been gifted with the ability to connect with and reach almost anyone. I believe in doing what works for the individual. Therapy is about making you stronger not making me feel smarter.
(760) 490-0511 View (760) 490-0511
Photo of Rhonda E. Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda E. Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Not accepting new clients
Are you a woman feeling sad, anxious, or just not yourself? Do you overthink the past? Worry too much about the future? Reach for quick fixes that don’t work? Or do you ignore the problem and tell yourself that eventually, things will change? Your sad thoughts and anxious feelings zap your energy. Unfortunately, your quick fixes only cause more painful struggles, and distancing yourself from the problem only worsens things. There is a reason for your sadness, worry, dependency, and detachment. Reaching out for help is the courageous first step toward finding relief and a solution.
Are you a woman feeling sad, anxious, or just not yourself? Do you overthink the past? Worry too much about the future? Reach for quick fixes that don’t work? Or do you ignore the problem and tell yourself that eventually, things will change? Your sad thoughts and anxious feelings zap your energy. Unfortunately, your quick fixes only cause more painful struggles, and distancing yourself from the problem only worsens things. There is a reason for your sadness, worry, dependency, and detachment. Reaching out for help is the courageous first step toward finding relief and a solution.
(760) 465-0237 View (760) 465-0237
Photo of Cristina Catherine Trette, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Catherine Trette
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I specialize in couples therapy and guide couples to strengthen communication, connection and intimacy. Many of my clients struggle with arguments, tension, or "feeling like roommates". Others face difficulties related to division of household duties, parenting, and sex. Some couples begin therapy for support with one partner's alcohol use, anxiety or depression. Many couples come to me in a state of crisis as they contemplate divorce or grapple with the pain of infidelity. I am well versed in helping couples come together to talk through the challenges they are facing, learn relationship skills, bond, heal and grow.
I specialize in couples therapy and guide couples to strengthen communication, connection and intimacy. Many of my clients struggle with arguments, tension, or "feeling like roommates". Others face difficulties related to division of household duties, parenting, and sex. Some couples begin therapy for support with one partner's alcohol use, anxiety or depression. Many couples come to me in a state of crisis as they contemplate divorce or grapple with the pain of infidelity. I am well versed in helping couples come together to talk through the challenges they are facing, learn relationship skills, bond, heal and grow.
(760) 359-9501 View (760) 359-9501
Photo of Bette Kitnick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bette Kitnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Through Jungian Analysis and Psychotherapy, I work with your dreams, images and unconscious, to access and develop the individual potential you were meant to live. I can help you to develop a creative, ethical, stable and joy filled life and to fulfill your full potential as an individuated and consciously whole person.
Through Jungian Analysis and Psychotherapy, I work with your dreams, images and unconscious, to access and develop the individual potential you were meant to live. I can help you to develop a creative, ethical, stable and joy filled life and to fulfill your full potential as an individuated and consciously whole person.
(760) 889-3534 View (760) 889-3534
Photo of Alan L Switzer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alan L Switzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
This is me at the beach with Shannon, our 25 year-old daughter. My wife Vicki and I had the good fortune to raise her here in beautiful San Diego North County, where she has had the opportunity to become an accomplished surfer, sailor, diver, and nature photographer. Vicki and I are a Marriage and Family Therapist team in private practice here for 20+ years in Encinitas, California. As well as seeing couples and families, I have specialized in treating anxiety disorders and phobias, depression, alcohol and substance abuse, and adolescents. I completed my B.A.degree at the University of Connecticut and graduate training at Purdue University. Using an eclectic approach, I combine elements of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, client-centered and mindfulness therapies in my practice. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnosis for use in weight loss, smoking cessation, habit control and anxiety reduction. I began focusing on treating adolescents very early in my career, and I have always enjoyed working with their youthful energy. Helping parents to work more closely together and develope simple and effective parenting skills can transform a stressful, contentious family life i
This is me at the beach with Shannon, our 25 year-old daughter. My wife Vicki and I had the good fortune to raise her here in beautiful San Diego North County, where she has had the opportunity to become an accomplished surfer, sailor, diver, and nature photographer. Vicki and I are a Marriage and Family Therapist team in private practice here for 20+ years in Encinitas, California. As well as seeing couples and families, I have specialized in treating anxiety disorders and phobias, depression, alcohol and substance abuse, and adolescents. I completed my B.A.degree at the University of Connecticut and graduate training at Purdue University. Using an eclectic approach, I combine elements of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, client-centered and mindfulness therapies in my practice. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnosis for use in weight loss, smoking cessation, habit control and anxiety reduction. I began focusing on treating adolescents very early in my career, and I have always enjoyed working with their youthful energy. Helping parents to work more closely together and develope simple and effective parenting skills can transform a stressful, contentious family life i
(760) 718-1930 View (760) 718-1930
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Encinitas, CA

500+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Encinitas, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
66% Stress
64% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
59% Cigna and Evernorth
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Encinitas, CA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Encinitas?

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.