Therapists in Anchorage, AK

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Photo of Sheryl Martin, PhD, LPA, Psychological Associate
Sheryl Martin
Psychological Associate, PhD, LPA
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99522  (Online Only)
I understand the anxiety often associated with going to a therapist for the first time. There are times in life we all could benefit from talking with a professional trained to help us process difficult emotions. In a safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive therapeutic partnership, I incorporate a variety of methods to help clients problem-solve and work through challenges to a better mental health.
I understand the anxiety often associated with going to a therapist for the first time. There are times in life we all could benefit from talking with a professional trained to help us process difficult emotions. In a safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive therapeutic partnership, I incorporate a variety of methods to help clients problem-solve and work through challenges to a better mental health.
(844) 279-1926 View (844) 279-1926
Photo of Betsy Atkins, LCSW, RPT-S, CFT-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Atkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, CFT-I
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor utilizing play therapy skills for children elementary age and younger. I offer Filial play therapy, which creates a safe atmosphere for children to express themselves, understand structure and limits, feel heard and validated, and develop family attachments by providing support and interventions to the whole family rather than just the child. I also offer group therapy for elementary aged children that utilizes cognitive behavioral play therapy to provide education and interventions focusing on social skills, communication, executive functioning, and emotional regulation.
I am a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor utilizing play therapy skills for children elementary age and younger. I offer Filial play therapy, which creates a safe atmosphere for children to express themselves, understand structure and limits, feel heard and validated, and develop family attachments by providing support and interventions to the whole family rather than just the child. I also offer group therapy for elementary aged children that utilizes cognitive behavioral play therapy to provide education and interventions focusing on social skills, communication, executive functioning, and emotional regulation.
(833) 598-1793 View (833) 598-1793
Photo of Amy Marie Dummann, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Marie Dummann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99518
I am a born and raised Alaskan and have been providing mental health services to individuals and families with a wide range of mental health challenges and developmental disabilities for over 20 years. I became a licensed professional counselor in 2015 and have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions.
I am a born and raised Alaskan and have been providing mental health services to individuals and families with a wide range of mental health challenges and developmental disabilities for over 20 years. I became a licensed professional counselor in 2015 and have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions.
(907) 312-0113 View (907) 312-0113
Photo of Dennis Gall - Dennis Gall - Serenity Counseling LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Dennis Gall - Serenity Counseling LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
I have a special interest in working with older adults. Getting older can come as a surprise to many. For most, our early years are full ones, establishing ourselves with family and a working life. We have a busy life with struggles and ups and downs that are the main focus of our attention. At some point though we have the realization that we are of a certain age, and that time seems to be moving by more quickly. Getting older may open new possibilities for how we spend our time as our work and family obligations change. It can be a time to look forward to how we would like to imagine our future years.
I have a special interest in working with older adults. Getting older can come as a surprise to many. For most, our early years are full ones, establishing ourselves with family and a working life. We have a busy life with struggles and ups and downs that are the main focus of our attention. At some point though we have the realization that we are of a certain age, and that time seems to be moving by more quickly. Getting older may open new possibilities for how we spend our time as our work and family obligations change. It can be a time to look forward to how we would like to imagine our future years.
(855) 724-5217 View (855) 724-5217
Photo of Tracy Follett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Follett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
(907) 759-8377 View (907) 759-8377
Photo of Jasmine Porter, MS, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmine Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
I come from a diverse background in education, personal experience, and training. I fully believe in treating the whole person in order to address the presenting problem. My approach comes from such therapy styles to include CBT, DBT, Rogerian, EMDR, ACT, CCPT, Filial therapy, and the work of Gottman. I try to meet each client where they are when we start our work together and believe the client is the expert on themselves. I hope to be able to offer insight, education, and intervention to all clients and am continually seeking new research and training to add to my repertoire.
I come from a diverse background in education, personal experience, and training. I fully believe in treating the whole person in order to address the presenting problem. My approach comes from such therapy styles to include CBT, DBT, Rogerian, EMDR, ACT, CCPT, Filial therapy, and the work of Gottman. I try to meet each client where they are when we start our work together and believe the client is the expert on themselves. I hope to be able to offer insight, education, and intervention to all clients and am continually seeking new research and training to add to my repertoire.
(907) 341-4252 View (907) 341-4252
Photo of Nathalia Grauvogel - Northern Wellness Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Northern Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering. -Ben Orki, Nigerian Poet and Novelist
The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering. -Ben Orki, Nigerian Poet and Novelist
(907) 227-0029 View (907) 227-0029
Photo of Lindsay Coffey, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Coffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Greetings and thanks for checking out my services and what I have to offer. I have been providing mental health services to children and families in Alaska since 2010. Most of my experience has been with children, teens and young adults, but I have provided services to adults as well. My passion is working with individuals, of any age, who have experienced trauma. I am certified in a number of evidence-based practices for treating trauma. I am also experienced at treating mood disorders in all ages, as well as disruptive behavior disorders in children.
Greetings and thanks for checking out my services and what I have to offer. I have been providing mental health services to children and families in Alaska since 2010. Most of my experience has been with children, teens and young adults, but I have provided services to adults as well. My passion is working with individuals, of any age, who have experienced trauma. I am certified in a number of evidence-based practices for treating trauma. I am also experienced at treating mood disorders in all ages, as well as disruptive behavior disorders in children.
(844) 972-0867 View (844) 972-0867
Photo of Mark V Holman, PsyD, Psychologist
Mark V Holman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Not accepting new clients
I am Dr. Mark Holman a clinical psychologist and a therapist at heart. I have been practicing the art and science of therapy since 2000 and am familiar with a number of difficulties, diagnoses, and the courses through them. I am well versed in psychotherapy research and prepared to put my experience and knowledge to work for you to maximize your outcomes. It is my intention that you would feel respected and understood throughout the process of us collaborating together. I welcome your call if you would like to discuss my services further. Thank you and take good care, Mark
I am Dr. Mark Holman a clinical psychologist and a therapist at heart. I have been practicing the art and science of therapy since 2000 and am familiar with a number of difficulties, diagnoses, and the courses through them. I am well versed in psychotherapy research and prepared to put my experience and knowledge to work for you to maximize your outcomes. It is my intention that you would feel respected and understood throughout the process of us collaborating together. I welcome your call if you would like to discuss my services further. Thank you and take good care, Mark
(877) 731-0058 View (877) 731-0058
Photo of Patty Quinn - Quinn's Counseling Services LLC, LPC, Counselor
Quinn's Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Hello! My name is Patty Quinn and I have a passion for working with young children and families and helping them realize their full potential. I strongly believe that parents know their children best and I appreciate my role as a guide in supporting families and children realize their full capacities. I have experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral challenges, and Attachment issues. I've been privileged to see the impact play therapy can have on a child as well as the entire family system.
Hello! My name is Patty Quinn and I have a passion for working with young children and families and helping them realize their full potential. I strongly believe that parents know their children best and I appreciate my role as a guide in supporting families and children realize their full capacities. I have experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral challenges, and Attachment issues. I've been privileged to see the impact play therapy can have on a child as well as the entire family system.
(907) 406-2642 View (907) 406-2642
Photo of Kendra Buerger, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra Buerger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507  (Online Only)
I believe you have the strength, wisdom, and capability to heal innately within you and that you deserve to live a life of happiness and meaning in alignment with your values and dreams. I hold space with presence, compassion, curiosity, and non-judgement for you to process, heal, and transform. I will be a guide and witness to highlight patterns, provide tools, and offer perspective while empowering you to develop trust and confidence in self. We will untangle where past influences present, rewrite limiting beliefs and stories, and work to bring integration, stability, clarity, and deeper connections. I offer Dream Work.
I believe you have the strength, wisdom, and capability to heal innately within you and that you deserve to live a life of happiness and meaning in alignment with your values and dreams. I hold space with presence, compassion, curiosity, and non-judgement for you to process, heal, and transform. I will be a guide and witness to highlight patterns, provide tools, and offer perspective while empowering you to develop trust and confidence in self. We will untangle where past influences present, rewrite limiting beliefs and stories, and work to bring integration, stability, clarity, and deeper connections. I offer Dream Work.
(877) 375-1932 View (877) 375-1932
Photo of Sayaka Maas - Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Evening and weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Office Hours: Sundays through Thursdays ( 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute FREE phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
Evening and weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Office Hours: Sundays through Thursdays ( 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute FREE phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
(907) 318-8601 View (907) 318-8601
Photo of Patricia Estella Gould, MA, LMFT, CST-P, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Estella Gould
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST-P
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99507
Not accepting new clients
As an immigrant, I have become part of a country that values diversity and integration, where I experienced the transformation of my life and therefore the transformation of my surroundings. While living in Alaska, I realized there is a need for mental health professionals who understand the implications of being an immigrant, and the importance of processing the loss of your language, food, music, friends, and place. Who also understand the difficulty of not knowing how to preserve who we are while adopting the values and gifts of the country which opened its doors to us.
As an immigrant, I have become part of a country that values diversity and integration, where I experienced the transformation of my life and therefore the transformation of my surroundings. While living in Alaska, I realized there is a need for mental health professionals who understand the implications of being an immigrant, and the importance of processing the loss of your language, food, music, friends, and place. Who also understand the difficulty of not knowing how to preserve who we are while adopting the values and gifts of the country which opened its doors to us.
(907) 341-4802 View (907) 341-4802
Photo of Amy Marie White, PhD, LPC, MAC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Marie White
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to Life Centered Therapy and Spiritual Counseling, LLC. With over 20 years in the field of behavioral health and addictions, my goal is to help you achieve balance and well-being at your pace. My specialty is working with transgender individuals, spiritual connections with a lifestyle of recovery. I believe that everyone has the right to express their authentic self and reach their full potential as human beings. I provide individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, crisis, trauma utilizing relaxation techniques, stress management, spirituality or other challenges of daily living.
Welcome to Life Centered Therapy and Spiritual Counseling, LLC. With over 20 years in the field of behavioral health and addictions, my goal is to help you achieve balance and well-being at your pace. My specialty is working with transgender individuals, spiritual connections with a lifestyle of recovery. I believe that everyone has the right to express their authentic self and reach their full potential as human beings. I provide individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, crisis, trauma utilizing relaxation techniques, stress management, spirituality or other challenges of daily living.
(907) 312-2567 View (907) 312-2567
Photo of Dr. Nathan Fearrington, PhD, LPC-S, LCMHC, CDCS, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Nathan Fearrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCMHC, CDCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Greetings, allow me to introduce myself. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Master Addictions Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and Chemical Dependency Clinical Supervisor. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families. The services that I provide are tailored to service the needs of adolescents and adults. The following are some of the treatment areas that I typically address: family dynamics, mood disorders, substance use, stress, anxiety, personal growth, and other behaviors and disorders.
Greetings, allow me to introduce myself. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Master Addictions Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and Chemical Dependency Clinical Supervisor. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families. The services that I provide are tailored to service the needs of adolescents and adults. The following are some of the treatment areas that I typically address: family dynamics, mood disorders, substance use, stress, anxiety, personal growth, and other behaviors and disorders.
(844) 758-0463 View (844) 758-0463
Photo of Katie Corwin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Corwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508  (Online Only)
I enjoy providing therapy for adults and adolescents addressing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, family and communication concerns, life transitions, personality disorders, and relationship problems.
I enjoy providing therapy for adults and adolescents addressing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, family and communication concerns, life transitions, personality disorders, and relationship problems.
View
Photo of Alice E Palen, LPC, REAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alice E Palen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, REAT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99518
There are times when we get stuck in the pain of sadness, discouragement, and disappointment. Sometimes we can shake ourselves out of it. Other times we may feel overwhelmed. When these feelings get in the way of being the person we want to be, having the relationships we want, or getting what we want out of life, you are not alone. Reach out for help. I am an Expressive Arts Therapist, and I guide individuals through painful times to come out the other side. Together, we use different art forms to help you identify and express how you are feeling. This is not art making. It is self-expression leading to insight and healing.
There are times when we get stuck in the pain of sadness, discouragement, and disappointment. Sometimes we can shake ourselves out of it. Other times we may feel overwhelmed. When these feelings get in the way of being the person we want to be, having the relationships we want, or getting what we want out of life, you are not alone. Reach out for help. I am an Expressive Arts Therapist, and I guide individuals through painful times to come out the other side. Together, we use different art forms to help you identify and express how you are feeling. This is not art making. It is self-expression leading to insight and healing.
(972) 449-4617 x714 View (972) 449-4617 x714
Photo of Delroy Duckworth - Karuna Counseling, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karuna Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
My motto is: "some things might be difficult to resolve, but not impossible." I believe that people, with the right support and tools, have the capacity to change, improve, and experience a better quality of life for themselves and with their loved ones.
My motto is: "some things might be difficult to resolve, but not impossible." I believe that people, with the right support and tools, have the capacity to change, improve, and experience a better quality of life for themselves and with their loved ones.
(855) 699-3545 View (855) 699-3545
Photo of Jodie Menish, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodie Menish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
In-Person/35 Yrs of Experience/Current Availability - Have you always blazed your own trail, worked hard and enjoyed many successes in life? Have you been able to tackle challenges with ease as they come up? Maybe you've found all of this to be true, but now there is this relationship dynamic or personal problem that just won’t go away. Then give me a call, you are my specialty. My extensive Gottman and Brainspotting training can go to work for you. I help circular problems find a resting ground. I keep the temperature cooler so that obstacles disappear. I help healing begin. Let's get started on a new way to do life.
In-Person/35 Yrs of Experience/Current Availability - Have you always blazed your own trail, worked hard and enjoyed many successes in life? Have you been able to tackle challenges with ease as they come up? Maybe you've found all of this to be true, but now there is this relationship dynamic or personal problem that just won’t go away. Then give me a call, you are my specialty. My extensive Gottman and Brainspotting training can go to work for you. I help circular problems find a resting ground. I keep the temperature cooler so that obstacles disappear. I help healing begin. Let's get started on a new way to do life.
(907) 791-0036 View (907) 791-0036
Photo of Dana G Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana G Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides individual therapy to adults age 18 and over. I am experienced in the treatment of addictions and mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. I also provide therapy for a wide range of other issues such as stress, trauma, relationship, life transitions and emotional adjustment to health/medical issues and life events involving grief and loss. I believe that effective therapy involves developing new thought patterns,healthy coping mechanisms, new beliefs about one's self as well as the strengthening internal and external resources.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides individual therapy to adults age 18 and over. I am experienced in the treatment of addictions and mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. I also provide therapy for a wide range of other issues such as stress, trauma, relationship, life transitions and emotional adjustment to health/medical issues and life events involving grief and loss. I believe that effective therapy involves developing new thought patterns,healthy coping mechanisms, new beliefs about one's self as well as the strengthening internal and external resources.
(907) 341-3876 View (907) 341-3876
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Anchorage, AK

300+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Anchorage, AK who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
84% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
67% Self Esteem
64% Stress
62% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Aetna
54% Premera Blue Cross

How Therapists in Anchorage, AK see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Anchorage?

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.