Therapists in Rochester, NY

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Photo of Leah Fitzgerald, LMSW
Leah Fitzgerald
LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Not accepting new clients
Are you currently struggling with going through stressful life-transitions, or chronic pain? Does it feel overwhelming to navigate through and need a safe place to vent? I am here to help create a welcoming environment for you to provide that support and help you discover that you can overcome these challenges you're facing. I know first-hand the impact of how chronic pain can exacerbate our mental health recovery, and I want you to know that you don't have to go through all of that on your own. I would be honored to help you process your feelings, develop ways to cope, and help you get back to enjoying your life to the fullest!
Are you currently struggling with going through stressful life-transitions, or chronic pain? Does it feel overwhelming to navigate through and need a safe place to vent? I am here to help create a welcoming environment for you to provide that support and help you discover that you can overcome these challenges you're facing. I know first-hand the impact of how chronic pain can exacerbate our mental health recovery, and I want you to know that you don't have to go through all of that on your own. I would be honored to help you process your feelings, develop ways to cope, and help you get back to enjoying your life to the fullest!
(585) 572-7017 View (585) 572-7017
Photo of Tammy Piotter, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Tammy Piotter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14624  (Online Only)
As a mature results oriented counselor, I believe in the value of focused listening to connect with my clients. This approach provides the foundation for creating genuinely personalized therapeutic interventions for individuals, couples and families. My philosophy is that counseling should be inviting, accessible and deliver outcomes. Therefore, my mission is to provide therapeutic services that reflect your uniqueness and supports your personal values. Services are offered afternoons and evenings to accommodate the needs of those who find it more convenient to meet outside of normal business hours.
As a mature results oriented counselor, I believe in the value of focused listening to connect with my clients. This approach provides the foundation for creating genuinely personalized therapeutic interventions for individuals, couples and families. My philosophy is that counseling should be inviting, accessible and deliver outcomes. Therefore, my mission is to provide therapeutic services that reflect your uniqueness and supports your personal values. Services are offered afternoons and evenings to accommodate the needs of those who find it more convenient to meet outside of normal business hours.
(585) 209-5291 View (585) 209-5291
Photo of Ashley DiMino LMHC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Ashley DiMino LMHC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14609
The decision to seek help for a problem is often a difficult one. People pursue therapy for a variety of reasons. Some may enter therapy to address major life changes, such as becoming a parent, and others may seek help in managing mental health conditions, like depression. Many people seek counseling because they have identified specific goals or issues that they wish to work on. Others may be encouraged by family, friends, or medical professionals to seek help. Whatever the motivation, it takes courage to attend therapy, and it takes dedication to see it through.
The decision to seek help for a problem is often a difficult one. People pursue therapy for a variety of reasons. Some may enter therapy to address major life changes, such as becoming a parent, and others may seek help in managing mental health conditions, like depression. Many people seek counseling because they have identified specific goals or issues that they wish to work on. Others may be encouraged by family, friends, or medical professionals to seek help. Whatever the motivation, it takes courage to attend therapy, and it takes dedication to see it through.
(585) 496-1522 View (585) 496-1522
Photo of Nicole Berardo, MHC-P
Nicole Berardo
MHC-P
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
Hello & Welcome! I am honored that you are considering me as a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have experience working with individuals, couples, & families helping them navigate various life transitions. I have experience working with schools through my role as a School Counselor. Being a certified Mindfulness Coach, I strive to offer you the opportunity to enjoy life more fully by learning how to live in the moment! I enjoy helping clients gain a sense of empowerment, to use their inner strength and voice.
Hello & Welcome! I am honored that you are considering me as a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have experience working with individuals, couples, & families helping them navigate various life transitions. I have experience working with schools through my role as a School Counselor. Being a certified Mindfulness Coach, I strive to offer you the opportunity to enjoy life more fully by learning how to live in the moment! I enjoy helping clients gain a sense of empowerment, to use their inner strength and voice.
(585) 595-0783 View (585) 595-0783
Photo of Kristen Julian, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Julian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14625
Waitlist for new clients
Humans have an innate and unique gift of being able to observe a broad range of emotions and experiences. Sometimes these emotions and experiences are not always favorable. I am here to walk alongside you through your journey towards contentment once again. With my relaxed and at times playful personality, I strive to create a safe, comfortable space where you can lean into discomfort and hardships in life. I work with adult clients of all ages who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, or struggles with interpersonal relationships. These issues may or may not be related to historical adverse experiences.
Humans have an innate and unique gift of being able to observe a broad range of emotions and experiences. Sometimes these emotions and experiences are not always favorable. I am here to walk alongside you through your journey towards contentment once again. With my relaxed and at times playful personality, I strive to create a safe, comfortable space where you can lean into discomfort and hardships in life. I work with adult clients of all ages who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, or struggles with interpersonal relationships. These issues may or may not be related to historical adverse experiences.
(585) 476-3802 View (585) 476-3802
Photo of Frances Meléndez, PsyD, Psychologist
Frances Meléndez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620  (Online Only)
Clearly you have taken the first step into your wellbeing. As a psychologist, I will respect your narrative working alongside you to explore the barriers keeping you stuck. I commit to be with as you explore and challenge concerns, barriers, deepening your self-awareness so that you may live your authentic life. I received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Graduate School of The City University of New York. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the State of New York.
Clearly you have taken the first step into your wellbeing. As a psychologist, I will respect your narrative working alongside you to explore the barriers keeping you stuck. I commit to be with as you explore and challenge concerns, barriers, deepening your self-awareness so that you may live your authentic life. I received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Graduate School of The City University of New York. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the State of New York.
(585) 488-6416 View (585) 488-6416
Photo of Becky Thomas, LCSWR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becky Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626
When you find yourself overwhelmed, stressed out, and unfulfilled, sometimes it feels easier to stay stuck in the daily grind of life than to take that terrifying step of figuring out what direction you are meant to go. You begin to realize that the life you have feels so different then how you expected it to be, leaving you feeling lost and uncertain. You want to start reconnecting with who you are and what is important to you. If you are open to change in any area of your life, such as mind-body connection, physical wellness, personal and professional development, and communication within relationships, you are in the right place.
When you find yourself overwhelmed, stressed out, and unfulfilled, sometimes it feels easier to stay stuck in the daily grind of life than to take that terrifying step of figuring out what direction you are meant to go. You begin to realize that the life you have feels so different then how you expected it to be, leaving you feeling lost and uncertain. You want to start reconnecting with who you are and what is important to you. If you are open to change in any area of your life, such as mind-body connection, physical wellness, personal and professional development, and communication within relationships, you are in the right place.
(585) 868-6944 View (585) 868-6944
Photo of Sarah Adams - Sustainable Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sustainable Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
(585) 302-2431 View (585) 302-2431
Photo of Amy Andrews - Amy Andrews, PhD, LMHC, PhD, LMHC , MFA, Counselor
Amy Andrews, PhD, LMHC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC , MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
I believe we all share the need to be deeply understood, especially during difficult or challenging times. I appreciate the courage clients show when they share stories of their lives. Without fail, I find these stories layered, complex, unique and moving. I admire clients who dare to share life stories that are "works-in-progress" -- messy, drafty, tentative. Stories with icky parts (that's a technical term!)... or tender parts...or broken parts... or out-dated parts. Stories with gaps -- spaces -- where yet-to-be-written parts will go. .I believe this process leads to healing and transformation.
I believe we all share the need to be deeply understood, especially during difficult or challenging times. I appreciate the courage clients show when they share stories of their lives. Without fail, I find these stories layered, complex, unique and moving. I admire clients who dare to share life stories that are "works-in-progress" -- messy, drafty, tentative. Stories with icky parts (that's a technical term!)... or tender parts...or broken parts... or out-dated parts. Stories with gaps -- spaces -- where yet-to-be-written parts will go. .I believe this process leads to healing and transformation.
(585) 563-5623 View (585) 563-5623
Photo of Heather Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14610
No one understands you better than yourself, yet external influences can sow doubt. My mission is to help you rediscover your identity, embrace existing strengths, and apply them to your life. I'm dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive space where you can be your authentic self without judgment. Together, we'll form a team committed to achieving your goals and dismantling damaging beliefs, such as recognizing that your strength predates challenging events.
No one understands you better than yourself, yet external influences can sow doubt. My mission is to help you rediscover your identity, embrace existing strengths, and apply them to your life. I'm dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive space where you can be your authentic self without judgment. Together, we'll form a team committed to achieving your goals and dismantling damaging beliefs, such as recognizing that your strength predates challenging events.
(585) 531-5642 View (585) 531-5642
Photo of Sarah Pulinski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Pulinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
Therapy offers a space to verbalize your experiences, sort through them, and connect them to feelings. This begins the process of change and self awareness. My priority is to provide a space where you can do this without judgment and feel safe, heard, and understood. I am also the kind of therapist who offers helpful insight and doesn't just sit back and listen, who can help you to see the role you play in your own life and help you grow.
Therapy offers a space to verbalize your experiences, sort through them, and connect them to feelings. This begins the process of change and self awareness. My priority is to provide a space where you can do this without judgment and feel safe, heard, and understood. I am also the kind of therapist who offers helpful insight and doesn't just sit back and listen, who can help you to see the role you play in your own life and help you grow.
(585) 539-7790 View (585) 539-7790
Photo of Danielle Herold, LCSW-R, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Herold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MEd
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14610  (Online Only)
Danielle Herold received her Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University and a Master's Degree in Education from Lesley University. She is a trained psychotherapist who has experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy settings and has worked with adults, children, families, couples, and groups. She has a client-centered approach and is effective in working with anxiety and depression. She also has a background in trauma and eating disorders and a special interest in infertility and adoption. She has a commitment to working with a diverse clientele, including the trans community.
Danielle Herold received her Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University and a Master's Degree in Education from Lesley University. She is a trained psychotherapist who has experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy settings and has worked with adults, children, families, couples, and groups. She has a client-centered approach and is effective in working with anxiety and depression. She also has a background in trauma and eating disorders and a special interest in infertility and adoption. She has a commitment to working with a diverse clientele, including the trans community.
(585) 245-0146 View (585) 245-0146
Photo of Julia Ricklefs, MAMFT
Julia Ricklefs
MAMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
I help individuals, couples, and families who want healthier relationships (with self & others) & are struggling with how to make it happen. I create a space where each person is heard & understood. I support my clients by building safety based on accountability and consistency. I assist my clients recognize their strengths and develop skills in communication & self-esteem. I work collaboratively to establish goals with clients that are realistic and support them through the challenges of change. The ultimate goal is to assist clients to get healthy so they don't need me anymore.
I help individuals, couples, and families who want healthier relationships (with self & others) & are struggling with how to make it happen. I create a space where each person is heard & understood. I support my clients by building safety based on accountability and consistency. I assist my clients recognize their strengths and develop skills in communication & self-esteem. I work collaboratively to establish goals with clients that are realistic and support them through the challenges of change. The ultimate goal is to assist clients to get healthy so they don't need me anymore.
(585) 601-2432 View (585) 601-2432
Photo of Melissa Joy Annechino, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Joy Annechino
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14607  (Online Only)
Life can be both beautiful & messy. I'm humbled & honored to help you sort through it! We each uniquely form our conscious & subconscious schemas and belief systems about ourselves, others, and the world at large since our earliest stages in life. No two people have the same experience, and there is no such thing as a "one size fits all" treatment modality. Yet we can also feel validated & gain from others' shared experiences, perspectives, and support. One thing all humans universally experience is the capacity for love, joy, pain, and everything else in between. You are not alone!
Life can be both beautiful & messy. I'm humbled & honored to help you sort through it! We each uniquely form our conscious & subconscious schemas and belief systems about ourselves, others, and the world at large since our earliest stages in life. No two people have the same experience, and there is no such thing as a "one size fits all" treatment modality. Yet we can also feel validated & gain from others' shared experiences, perspectives, and support. One thing all humans universally experience is the capacity for love, joy, pain, and everything else in between. You are not alone!
(585) 308-9856 View (585) 308-9856
Photo of Tony Tepedino, LMSW
Tony Tepedino
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. I truly understand that everyday life can be a whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and transformations. You might be feeling overwhelmed with the pressure to make significant life decisions, navigating complex relationships, or managing the expectations of those around you. You might also be dealing with past​ experiences that have left a lasting impact on how you see yourself and the world. Many people grapple with finding their place in the world while trying to balance personal desires, academic or career goals, and the need for self-discovery and growth. I can help.
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. I truly understand that everyday life can be a whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and transformations. You might be feeling overwhelmed with the pressure to make significant life decisions, navigating complex relationships, or managing the expectations of those around you. You might also be dealing with past​ experiences that have left a lasting impact on how you see yourself and the world. Many people grapple with finding their place in the world while trying to balance personal desires, academic or career goals, and the need for self-discovery and growth. I can help.
(585) 547-5122 View (585) 547-5122
Photo of Keegan Johnston, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Keegan Johnston
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14607
Do you sometimes feel like life is a story you're reading rather than living? Do concerns like stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief/loss, and uncertainty about identity prevent you from being your authentic self? Do you find yourself struggling to express your thoughts to those around you and wish to understand the emotional part of yourself better? If any of these questions resonate with you, then my style of counseling might be an excellent opportunity to work towards a life that is more personally meaningful; in a safe, confidential, and supportive environment.
Do you sometimes feel like life is a story you're reading rather than living? Do concerns like stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief/loss, and uncertainty about identity prevent you from being your authentic self? Do you find yourself struggling to express your thoughts to those around you and wish to understand the emotional part of yourself better? If any of these questions resonate with you, then my style of counseling might be an excellent opportunity to work towards a life that is more personally meaningful; in a safe, confidential, and supportive environment.
(585) 632-8257 View (585) 632-8257
Photo of Megan Mendelson, LMHC
Megan Mendelson
LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Welcome! Starting therapy is a vulnerable thing to do, and it is essential to find the right therapist to partner with as you take steps towards your goals. It is important to me that my clients feel empowered and understood, and that their goals are being achieved. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with four years of experience, both in community mental health working with all ages, and in a pediatric clinic working with individuals under 21. My clinical focus is in working with individuals navigating grief, trauma, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! Starting therapy is a vulnerable thing to do, and it is essential to find the right therapist to partner with as you take steps towards your goals. It is important to me that my clients feel empowered and understood, and that their goals are being achieved. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with four years of experience, both in community mental health working with all ages, and in a pediatric clinic working with individuals under 21. My clinical focus is in working with individuals navigating grief, trauma, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(585) 440-7841 View (585) 440-7841
Photo of Sara Adams, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
I'm not currently accepting new clients; however, I'm happy to refer to another clinician with openings at my trauma-focused group practice, Sustainable Wellness. I believe we all have the potential to better ourselves, and that growth occurs while exploring the root causes of issues - not just treating symptoms. I have a holistic approach, treating the entire person rather than a disorder or specific hardship. I view my clients as experts on their own lives and my role as the facilitator of change. I help address my clients' struggles while, equally importantly, maintaining areas of strength.
I'm not currently accepting new clients; however, I'm happy to refer to another clinician with openings at my trauma-focused group practice, Sustainable Wellness. I believe we all have the potential to better ourselves, and that growth occurs while exploring the root causes of issues - not just treating symptoms. I have a holistic approach, treating the entire person rather than a disorder or specific hardship. I view my clients as experts on their own lives and my role as the facilitator of change. I help address my clients' struggles while, equally importantly, maintaining areas of strength.
(585) 318-8043 View (585) 318-8043
Photo of Brooke Slattery, LMSW
Brooke Slattery
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14625
In 2024… who doesn’t need therapy after the past few years we’ve had? To some that could mean talk therapy and for others that could mean working through a life crisis. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to focus on themselves and make improvements on their day to day life. I have experience with all ages and all walks of life. My ideal client is someone ready to take the first step towards helping themself.
In 2024… who doesn’t need therapy after the past few years we’ve had? To some that could mean talk therapy and for others that could mean working through a life crisis. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to focus on themselves and make improvements on their day to day life. I have experience with all ages and all walks of life. My ideal client is someone ready to take the first step towards helping themself.
(585) 210-8196 View (585) 210-8196
Photo of Christopher F Pollack, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher F Pollack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14625
In helping children, teens, and their families, I employ a combination of compassion, creativity, understanding, and humor with clinically proven treatment methods. During my 15+ years of experience I have found that a good collaborative therapeutic relationship combined with skill-based strategies and techniques results in positive and lasting changes. I typically begin treatment with a thorough assessment and treatment plan. Treatment incorporates both parent and child interventions. I routinely communicate with pediatricians, teachers and school personnel to assist in resolving the issues of children and teens, with parental permission.
In helping children, teens, and their families, I employ a combination of compassion, creativity, understanding, and humor with clinically proven treatment methods. During my 15+ years of experience I have found that a good collaborative therapeutic relationship combined with skill-based strategies and techniques results in positive and lasting changes. I typically begin treatment with a thorough assessment and treatment plan. Treatment incorporates both parent and child interventions. I routinely communicate with pediatricians, teachers and school personnel to assist in resolving the issues of children and teens, with parental permission.
(585) 502-1609 View (585) 502-1609
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Rochester, NY

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Rochester, NY who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
71% Stress
70% Coping Skills
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
59% Cigna and Evernorth
49% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Rochester, NY see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Rochester?

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.