Therapists in Ada County, ID

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Photo of Melissa Funston, LPC, MS Ed, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Funston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS Ed
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
As a proud member of the ADHDer club and a self-identified “Crazy Cat Lady,” my unique perspective allows me to offer a refreshing and empathetic approach to counseling. My goal is to help you embrace your true self and make meaningful changes in your life. My approach to therapy is grounded in a unique direct humor, intuition, and down-to-earth guidance to walk with you in authenticity. I believe being alive gives opportunities for growth, and I am here to support you with genuine care and laughter. I am passionate about creating an authentic and comfortable space to address needs that would be too daunting to tackle alone.
As a proud member of the ADHDer club and a self-identified “Crazy Cat Lady,” my unique perspective allows me to offer a refreshing and empathetic approach to counseling. My goal is to help you embrace your true self and make meaningful changes in your life. My approach to therapy is grounded in a unique direct humor, intuition, and down-to-earth guidance to walk with you in authenticity. I believe being alive gives opportunities for growth, and I am here to support you with genuine care and laughter. I am passionate about creating an authentic and comfortable space to address needs that would be too daunting to tackle alone.
(208) 510-0829 View (208) 510-0829
Photo of Rachel Webster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Webster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702  (Online Only)
An ideal client is one who wants to identify and talk through challenges with which they are faced. I enjoy working with all kinds of people, variety is part of what makes my job great. More than preferring to work with clients who have any particular issues or goals, working with clients to identify and problem-solve is what I most enjoy.
An ideal client is one who wants to identify and talk through challenges with which they are faced. I enjoy working with all kinds of people, variety is part of what makes my job great. More than preferring to work with clients who have any particular issues or goals, working with clients to identify and problem-solve is what I most enjoy.
(209) 459-5825 View (209) 459-5825
Photo of Catherine Louise Millward, LMFT, LPC, NCC, QSUDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Louise Millward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC, QSUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
"NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP" These are inspiring words spoken by Winston Churchill 60 years ago which applies to us in our turbulent times today. We are all involved in a myriad of transitions and changes that are impacting you individually, within your families, at work and in your schools. We are caught up in societal conflict, having to make daily decisions that impact our lives, feeling anxious about the present and future and coping with the best skills that we all have to meet the situation.
"NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP" These are inspiring words spoken by Winston Churchill 60 years ago which applies to us in our turbulent times today. We are all involved in a myriad of transitions and changes that are impacting you individually, within your families, at work and in your schools. We are caught up in societal conflict, having to make daily decisions that impact our lives, feeling anxious about the present and future and coping with the best skills that we all have to meet the situation.
(208) 479-1116 View (208) 479-1116
Photo of Martin Michael 'mike' Cutler, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Martin Michael 'mike' Cutler
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR trained. People I help want to feel better quickly and my goal is to help you feel better as soon as possible so that they can move on into your better life. People have reported our work together has been invaluable in providing relief to past trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, family struggles, problems with marriage and relationships, sexual issues, loss and grief, issues related to age and life transitions, LGBTQIA+, social justice and race issues, military veterans and first-responder issues, and historical and multigenerational trauma issues.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR trained. People I help want to feel better quickly and my goal is to help you feel better as soon as possible so that they can move on into your better life. People have reported our work together has been invaluable in providing relief to past trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, family struggles, problems with marriage and relationships, sexual issues, loss and grief, issues related to age and life transitions, LGBTQIA+, social justice and race issues, military veterans and first-responder issues, and historical and multigenerational trauma issues.
(208) 494-9981 View (208) 494-9981
Photo of Veronica Marshall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706
Not accepting new clients
Life transitions, grief, and trauma disrupt the natural flow of life, which may lead to getting stuck in self-defeating thoughts and behaviors with feelings of overwhelm or disconnect. Additionally, difficulty with sleep, digestion, and focus may dominate your daily routine. It takes courage to make this first step towards healing and growth. Do current or past experiences or worries about the future keep you from living your full potential? Are you emotionally, physically, or mentally exhausted? Are you ready to make changes in your life? Then I might be the counselor for you. Together we can take steps to increase your wellbeing.
Life transitions, grief, and trauma disrupt the natural flow of life, which may lead to getting stuck in self-defeating thoughts and behaviors with feelings of overwhelm or disconnect. Additionally, difficulty with sleep, digestion, and focus may dominate your daily routine. It takes courage to make this first step towards healing and growth. Do current or past experiences or worries about the future keep you from living your full potential? Are you emotionally, physically, or mentally exhausted? Are you ready to make changes in your life? Then I might be the counselor for you. Together we can take steps to increase your wellbeing.
(208) 285-3990 View (208) 285-3990
Photo of Jeremy Wayne Irvin - Idaho Gender and Sex Therapy (Jeremy Irvin, LCSW), LCSW, MEd, CST, CSTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Idaho Gender and Sex Therapy (Jeremy Irvin, LCSW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, CST, CSTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
Welcome! I know that taking your first steps into finding a therapist can seem like a daunting task. Every therapist is slightly different, so the most important thing that you can do is to find a therapist who is right for you. Personally, I believe that therapy works best when we are able to work together in a friendly, collaborative environment, where you can feel seen, heard, and known. I also believe that there is no “one size fits all” model, and therefore I tailor my therapy sessions to each client's individual needs.
Welcome! I know that taking your first steps into finding a therapist can seem like a daunting task. Every therapist is slightly different, so the most important thing that you can do is to find a therapist who is right for you. Personally, I believe that therapy works best when we are able to work together in a friendly, collaborative environment, where you can feel seen, heard, and known. I also believe that there is no “one size fits all” model, and therefore I tailor my therapy sessions to each client's individual needs.
(208) 639-2401 View (208) 639-2401
Photo of Elena Marchesan Lopez, MS, LCPC, NCC, CRC, Counselor
Elena Marchesan Lopez
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704  (Online Only)
Elena is experienced working with individuals on the Autism spectrum, and has a passion for transition youth at risk. With strength-based interventions she hopes to empower her clients to their fullest potential; adding in play therapy, somatic approaches to foster an engaging and accepting therapeutic environment. With the four languages she speaks, she hopes to continue to bring access to counseling services to various communities in need by proving Telehealth to clients living in rural areas.
Elena is experienced working with individuals on the Autism spectrum, and has a passion for transition youth at risk. With strength-based interventions she hopes to empower her clients to their fullest potential; adding in play therapy, somatic approaches to foster an engaging and accepting therapeutic environment. With the four languages she speaks, she hopes to continue to bring access to counseling services to various communities in need by proving Telehealth to clients living in rural areas.
(208) 506-2520 View (208) 506-2520
Photo of Erika Moe, LCPC, Counselor
Erika Moe
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
Welcome to Erika Moe Counseling, LLC! I have been a mental health therapist in Idaho for more than 7 years. I graduated from Northwest Nazarene University in 2016 and began working with children in the Treasure Valley that same year. In 2019, I became a Registered Play Therapist.
Welcome to Erika Moe Counseling, LLC! I have been a mental health therapist in Idaho for more than 7 years. I graduated from Northwest Nazarene University in 2016 and began working with children in the Treasure Valley that same year. In 2019, I became a Registered Play Therapist.
(208) 231-3926 View (208) 231-3926
Photo of Rachel Root, PhD, LP, PMH-C, Psychologist
Rachel Root
Psychologist, PhD, LP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
My approach to therapy is collaborative in nature, client-driven, and specifically suited to fit each individual's needs. I have helped clients with issues ranging from the treatment and maintenance of severe mental illness, to working with clients who simply wish to improve their daily lives. My therapeutic style can assist individuals during difficult life transitions, assessing the areas in their lives that need re-adjustment, address pre/postnatal issues including postpartum depression and anxiety, and much more.
My approach to therapy is collaborative in nature, client-driven, and specifically suited to fit each individual's needs. I have helped clients with issues ranging from the treatment and maintenance of severe mental illness, to working with clients who simply wish to improve their daily lives. My therapeutic style can assist individuals during difficult life transitions, assessing the areas in their lives that need re-adjustment, address pre/postnatal issues including postpartum depression and anxiety, and much more.
(208) 826-4055 View (208) 826-4055
Photo of Cathy Beardsley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Beardsley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle, ID 83616
Has something difficult or disturbing happened in the past or present that is currently affecting your relationships and personal life? I believe that difficulties provide pathways into a deeper understanding and relationship with oneself. No matter how challenging the circumstances may seem, I believe it is possible to navigate through the situation and gain relief. I consider it a privilege to work deeply with people building supportive collaborative relationships while attending to the difficulties they face. I am currently licensed in California and Idaho.
Has something difficult or disturbing happened in the past or present that is currently affecting your relationships and personal life? I believe that difficulties provide pathways into a deeper understanding and relationship with oneself. No matter how challenging the circumstances may seem, I believe it is possible to navigate through the situation and gain relief. I consider it a privilege to work deeply with people building supportive collaborative relationships while attending to the difficulties they face. I am currently licensed in California and Idaho.
(208) 494-9227 View (208) 494-9227
Photo of Jessica D Adams, MS, Coun, LCPC, Counselor
Jessica D Adams
Counselor, MS, Coun, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
You may be struggling with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma history that impacts your current functioning...or you may be struggling with parenting challenges. I have experience working with individuals and families of all ages and walks of life. My experience is that people heal and grow in an accepting and encouraging relationship. My goal is to meet individuals where they are and build them up using strengths-based, humanistic, trauma-informed approaches. My clients can expect empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness from me. They can also expect the knowledge and wisdom of a seasoned therapist.
You may be struggling with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma history that impacts your current functioning...or you may be struggling with parenting challenges. I have experience working with individuals and families of all ages and walks of life. My experience is that people heal and grow in an accepting and encouraging relationship. My goal is to meet individuals where they are and build them up using strengths-based, humanistic, trauma-informed approaches. My clients can expect empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness from me. They can also expect the knowledge and wisdom of a seasoned therapist.
(208) 203-7560 View (208) 203-7560
Photo of Lianna Erickson-Trembath, MA, LCPC, AADC
Lianna Erickson-Trembath
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, AADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
You are an amazing human being! We all need to be reminded of our value and purpose in life. Getting a different perspective on life can create awareness and ignite positive change. I specialize in creating balance for the mind, body and spirit by offering a safe, accepting, and open space for you to experience your healing process. I am honored to be with you as you have the courage to make positive changes in your life. Don't know where to begin, that's okay, together we will start your self-discovery today! It's time for you to reclaim your value and worth!
You are an amazing human being! We all need to be reminded of our value and purpose in life. Getting a different perspective on life can create awareness and ignite positive change. I specialize in creating balance for the mind, body and spirit by offering a safe, accepting, and open space for you to experience your healing process. I am honored to be with you as you have the courage to make positive changes in your life. Don't know where to begin, that's okay, together we will start your self-discovery today! It's time for you to reclaim your value and worth!
(208) 415-1806 View (208) 415-1806
Photo of Trina M Fry - DragonFly Counseling PLLC, MS, LCPC
DragonFly Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
**Providing Services Strictly Telehealth. Please email for availability** Hello there! Making the decision to contact a counselor can be an intimidating and difficult step and here you ARE! My goal as a therapist include creating a safe space for you to be you without JUDGEMENT and to help you ease into the process of changing through providing support and encouragement. As we work together to build a personalized therapy plan, my hope is that you will gain a deeper understanding about you and find some practical skills/tools to use in the real world.
**Providing Services Strictly Telehealth. Please email for availability** Hello there! Making the decision to contact a counselor can be an intimidating and difficult step and here you ARE! My goal as a therapist include creating a safe space for you to be you without JUDGEMENT and to help you ease into the process of changing through providing support and encouragement. As we work together to build a personalized therapy plan, my hope is that you will gain a deeper understanding about you and find some practical skills/tools to use in the real world.
(208) 504-1360 View (208) 504-1360
Photo of Ann Clayton, LCPC, NCC
Ann Clayton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
I help teens, preteens and young adults learn how to cope with life stressors so that they can be happier in their personal and family lives. Most teens and young adults struggle with becoming overwhelmed and not sure how to deal with all the emotions that come up for them. So much is changing so quickly, and it can be difficult to feel like you are keeping up with the constant transitions.
I help teens, preteens and young adults learn how to cope with life stressors so that they can be happier in their personal and family lives. Most teens and young adults struggle with becoming overwhelmed and not sure how to deal with all the emotions that come up for them. So much is changing so quickly, and it can be difficult to feel like you are keeping up with the constant transitions.
(208) 213-2344 View (208) 213-2344
Photo of Melissa Bowman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Bowman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Star, ID 83669
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to promoting holistic mental health and relational well-being. I bring a unique blend of expertise to my practice with specialized certifications in integrative health, Neurofeedback and the Prepare Enrich Marriage Program. I am committed to providing comprehensive and effective therapeutic interventions tailored to each individual, couple, or family I work with. More information about my practice can be found on my website www.melissabowmanlmft.com.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to promoting holistic mental health and relational well-being. I bring a unique blend of expertise to my practice with specialized certifications in integrative health, Neurofeedback and the Prepare Enrich Marriage Program. I am committed to providing comprehensive and effective therapeutic interventions tailored to each individual, couple, or family I work with. More information about my practice can be found on my website www.melissabowmanlmft.com.
(208) 840-6935 View (208) 840-6935
Photo of Jesse Mathis, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jesse Mathis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83709  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) as well as a nationally certified counselor (NCC) in the state of Idaho. I am passionate about holistically partnering with clients on their journey towards growth and healing in a way that respects the whole person. My style is warm and genuine as I work with individuals to process through past traumas, navigate current challenges, identify and set healthy boundaries, replace negative belief systems, heal ostracized parts of themselves, and find new ways to better manage their mental health.
Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) as well as a nationally certified counselor (NCC) in the state of Idaho. I am passionate about holistically partnering with clients on their journey towards growth and healing in a way that respects the whole person. My style is warm and genuine as I work with individuals to process through past traumas, navigate current challenges, identify and set healthy boundaries, replace negative belief systems, heal ostracized parts of themselves, and find new ways to better manage their mental health.
(208) 301-5963 View (208) 301-5963
Photo of Mallory Murphy, PsyD, Psychologist
Mallory Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle, ID 83616
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are hoping to heal from past experiences, develop greater insight, and strengthen relationships. My approach to therapy is warm, genuine, and relational. I strive to meet my patients right where they are at and offer a variety of treatment approaches to help them succeed. I maintain a depth oriented lens, while my approach to treatment planning commonly incorporates behavioral techniques. I believe this combination promotes quick relief and lasting growth.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are hoping to heal from past experiences, develop greater insight, and strengthen relationships. My approach to therapy is warm, genuine, and relational. I strive to meet my patients right where they are at and offer a variety of treatment approaches to help them succeed. I maintain a depth oriented lens, while my approach to treatment planning commonly incorporates behavioral techniques. I believe this combination promotes quick relief and lasting growth.
(208) 572-9567 View (208) 572-9567
Photo of Anthony Hall, MCoun, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anthony Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCoun, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83705
I believe in the value of books and reading; they are powerful aids to mental health, growth and healing. What we read changes not only our thoughts and feelings, but can determine our long-term view of the world as well. Each person has an ongoing personal narrative or story that is shaped by our experiences--but mostly by our view of these experiences. We are our life story, in the sense that it influences our choices, what we value and what we fear in life, etc. The good news is that we can shape and change our life story through awareness, understanding, and compassion.
I believe in the value of books and reading; they are powerful aids to mental health, growth and healing. What we read changes not only our thoughts and feelings, but can determine our long-term view of the world as well. Each person has an ongoing personal narrative or story that is shaped by our experiences--but mostly by our view of these experiences. We are our life story, in the sense that it influences our choices, what we value and what we fear in life, etc. The good news is that we can shape and change our life story through awareness, understanding, and compassion.
(208) 314-3269 View (208) 314-3269
Photo of Mariella Elle Hogan Gotz - Hays Street Counseling, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC, Psychologist
Hays Street Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
In an ever-changing world with so many hardships and challenges, I have dedicated my life to helping people make sense out of their struggles and to find more peace. I believe in people, and I believe that in a safe and supportive environment, with a skillful and responsible guide, people are capable of incredible accomplishments, leading to changes that enable more peace and joyful living. I believe that people develop maladaptive patterns of living and relating and that sometimes simple changes in habits, thinking, growing and understanding, can lead to happier, healthier lives and relationships. I'd be happy to receive your call!
In an ever-changing world with so many hardships and challenges, I have dedicated my life to helping people make sense out of their struggles and to find more peace. I believe in people, and I believe that in a safe and supportive environment, with a skillful and responsible guide, people are capable of incredible accomplishments, leading to changes that enable more peace and joyful living. I believe that people develop maladaptive patterns of living and relating and that sometimes simple changes in habits, thinking, growing and understanding, can lead to happier, healthier lives and relationships. I'd be happy to receive your call!
(208) 826-1778 View (208) 826-1778
Photo of Sidra A Beckett, MS, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Sidra A Beckett
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Not accepting new clients
EMAIL is BETTER than PHONE -Only offering TELE-HEALTH at this time for initial appt. then can move to in person. I love my work. It's a blessing to connect with people on the most human level each day. I enjoy the challenges of supporting my clients' journeys of discovery. I love helping them uncover their strengths, and relish the power of different perspectives on life's journey. I enjoy working with all ages, but I specialize in parenting of adolescents and young adults. I also work with couples/groups on relationship dynamics, communication skills, and healthy boundaries. I'm honest, transparent, and direct.
EMAIL is BETTER than PHONE -Only offering TELE-HEALTH at this time for initial appt. then can move to in person. I love my work. It's a blessing to connect with people on the most human level each day. I enjoy the challenges of supporting my clients' journeys of discovery. I love helping them uncover their strengths, and relish the power of different perspectives on life's journey. I enjoy working with all ages, but I specialize in parenting of adolescents and young adults. I also work with couples/groups on relationship dynamics, communication skills, and healthy boundaries. I'm honest, transparent, and direct.
(208) 505-9786 View (208) 505-9786
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ada County, ID

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Ada County, ID who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Blue Cross
63% Aetna
61% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Ada County, ID see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ada County?

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.