Therapists in Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD

Photo of Alexandra (Alex) Huss, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra (Alex) Huss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
Therapeutic growth begins with finding a space where you feel safe and valued in vulnerability. I hope to collaboratively create that space with you. My work focuses on client concerns ranging from trauma and complex trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, body image, family stressors, isolation, low self-esteem, LGTBQIA+ related issues, international perspectives, to life transitions.
Therapeutic growth begins with finding a space where you feel safe and valued in vulnerability. I hope to collaboratively create that space with you. My work focuses on client concerns ranging from trauma and complex trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, body image, family stressors, isolation, low self-esteem, LGTBQIA+ related issues, international perspectives, to life transitions.
(240) 728-2297 View (240) 728-2297
Photo of Stefani Levin, MSW, MEd, LCSW-C, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefani Levin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW-C, CST
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Not accepting new clients
How are you looking to grow, change, or expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships? My work is to support and challenge; providing you with space to explore your self and connections to others, understand the story you create around your experience, and recognize patterns in your life from a foundation of support. Together, we investigate the ways you relate to others, the ties in your history that inform where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from pain-whether that pain looks like depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual dysfunction, or discomfort in your relationships.
How are you looking to grow, change, or expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships? My work is to support and challenge; providing you with space to explore your self and connections to others, understand the story you create around your experience, and recognize patterns in your life from a foundation of support. Together, we investigate the ways you relate to others, the ties in your history that inform where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from pain-whether that pain looks like depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual dysfunction, or discomfort in your relationships.
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Photo of Dianne Gertrude DeSantis - MINDCare Consulting, MS, ABD, LCPC
MINDCare Consulting
MS, ABD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Hello & Welcome to MINDCare! MC is dedicated to promoting psychological health/healthcare for all. If interested in learning more about your brain, mind, emotions, behaviors, and how it all works then let's talk. Many have found solutions from education, meaningful dialogue and new skill development. Learn optimal parenting, improve your child's behavior, grieve in healthy ways, minimize/eliminate stress, become a non smoker, enjoy healthier relationships, improve overall quality of life or achieve any goal. Have the life you deserve! Let's Talk!
Hello & Welcome to MINDCare! MC is dedicated to promoting psychological health/healthcare for all. If interested in learning more about your brain, mind, emotions, behaviors, and how it all works then let's talk. Many have found solutions from education, meaningful dialogue and new skill development. Learn optimal parenting, improve your child's behavior, grieve in healthy ways, minimize/eliminate stress, become a non smoker, enjoy healthier relationships, improve overall quality of life or achieve any goal. Have the life you deserve! Let's Talk!
(410) 469-6085 View (410) 469-6085
Photo of Amber Hager, PhD, Psychologist
Amber Hager
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
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Photo of Danice Young, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danice Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
Are you feeling worried all of the time?Do you feel sad, stuck, and unmotivated? Tired of repeating the cycle of unhealthy relationships? Have you told your trauma narrative countless times but still feel stuck? I work with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My areas of interest and experience includes mood disorders, eating disorders and body image issues. I emphasize with my clients that the goal isn’t to reach a certain number on the scale but to develop a healthy relationship with their body. I want to help my clients view their body as something to care for instead of something to avoid or punish.
Are you feeling worried all of the time?Do you feel sad, stuck, and unmotivated? Tired of repeating the cycle of unhealthy relationships? Have you told your trauma narrative countless times but still feel stuck? I work with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My areas of interest and experience includes mood disorders, eating disorders and body image issues. I emphasize with my clients that the goal isn’t to reach a certain number on the scale but to develop a healthy relationship with their body. I want to help my clients view their body as something to care for instead of something to avoid or punish.
(240) 624-2045 View (240) 624-2045
Photo of Batsheva (Beth) Hartstein, LCSW-C, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Batsheva (Beth) Hartstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Play therapy is my passion! As a registered play therapist, I conduct therapy using play to facilitate growth, change, communication, and work through a variety of issues using play techniques. Additionally, I work as a trainer sharing my knowledge and excitement of the incredible work that can be done using play!
Play therapy is my passion! As a registered play therapist, I conduct therapy using play to facilitate growth, change, communication, and work through a variety of issues using play techniques. Additionally, I work as a trainer sharing my knowledge and excitement of the incredible work that can be done using play!
(443) 679-5085 View (443) 679-5085
Photo of Kier M Johnson- Marshall, LCPC, MS, NCC
Kier M Johnson- Marshall
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
I believe "Knowledge Is Power"! Knowledge of how to find and apply solutions to deal with confusion, anxiety, depression and other challenging life situations that results in feeling of helplessness or sometimes even hopelessness, is what I have found empowers change. I, your listener, co-pilgrim, and spiritual pastoral counselor am here to facilitate an opportunity for you to regain a sense of understanding self in all of your challenges which will open the doors of love, power and a sound mind!
I believe "Knowledge Is Power"! Knowledge of how to find and apply solutions to deal with confusion, anxiety, depression and other challenging life situations that results in feeling of helplessness or sometimes even hopelessness, is what I have found empowers change. I, your listener, co-pilgrim, and spiritual pastoral counselor am here to facilitate an opportunity for you to regain a sense of understanding self in all of your challenges which will open the doors of love, power and a sound mind!
(443) 213-0152 View (443) 213-0152
TotalPsychCare / Equanimity
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
TotalPsychCare / Equanimity provides full service mental health services; Psychotherapy for (Adult, Adolescents & Children), Family and Couples therapy. Psychiatric Services for Medication Management is also available. Substance Abuse counseling is (both Individual and group) and psychological assessment services.
TotalPsychCare / Equanimity provides full service mental health services; Psychotherapy for (Adult, Adolescents & Children), Family and Couples therapy. Psychiatric Services for Medication Management is also available. Substance Abuse counseling is (both Individual and group) and psychological assessment services.
(410) 927-5151 View (410) 927-5151
Photo of Elizabeth Venenga, LCPC
Elizabeth Venenga
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
My focus in the counseling relationship is on promoting growth and healing by exploring the role of individual identity, coping strategies, support systems, and trauma in your life. I hope to help you find meaning, achieve personal goals, engage in healthy relationships, and confront past hurtful or painful experiences. I use a client-centered approach to therapy while also incorporating aspects of CBT, DBT, and existential psychotherapy.
My focus in the counseling relationship is on promoting growth and healing by exploring the role of individual identity, coping strategies, support systems, and trauma in your life. I hope to help you find meaning, achieve personal goals, engage in healthy relationships, and confront past hurtful or painful experiences. I use a client-centered approach to therapy while also incorporating aspects of CBT, DBT, and existential psychotherapy.
(240) 213-9081 View (240) 213-9081
Photo of Durwood Whitten, PhD, Psychologist
Durwood Whitten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
At some point, everyone has experienced some sort of emotional distress whether it be the illness or death of a loved one, the pain of a divorce, a traumatic experience from childhood, or even the demands of everyday life. If you're thinking you may need some help to get through something new or something from the past, you're probably right. I want to help. I am extremely dedicated to helping my clients heal, improve their lives, and reach their own personal goals.
At some point, everyone has experienced some sort of emotional distress whether it be the illness or death of a loved one, the pain of a divorce, a traumatic experience from childhood, or even the demands of everyday life. If you're thinking you may need some help to get through something new or something from the past, you're probably right. I want to help. I am extremely dedicated to helping my clients heal, improve their lives, and reach their own personal goals.
(443) 380-2009 View (443) 380-2009
Photo of Anthony Estreet, PhD, LCSW-C, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anthony Estreet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, LCADC
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Hello and thank you for stopping past my page. I hope that we are able to begin working together to identify areas of concern and find appropriate solutions. I am a client centered therapist which means that the client is leading the process of change and is the expert on what is going on in their life. The ideal client would be someone who is interested in identifying and working towards their goals. Finding a good match with a therapist is an important decision. I look forward to working with you through your process.
Hello and thank you for stopping past my page. I hope that we are able to begin working together to identify areas of concern and find appropriate solutions. I am a client centered therapist which means that the client is leading the process of change and is the expert on what is going on in their life. The ideal client would be someone who is interested in identifying and working towards their goals. Finding a good match with a therapist is an important decision. I look forward to working with you through your process.
(410) 782-3376 View (410) 782-3376
Photo of Amanda Marie Jones, PhD, Psychologist
Amanda Marie Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Are you having trouble living the life you want, in part because of circumstances outside your control? Could you use additional support and guidance to navigate the difficulties you face? I provide a warm and accepting environment for you to reflect on your life and your strengths, then develop strategies for using those strengths to meet your goals. My specialties include the struggles of people who identify as LGBTQ and their families, as well as the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses and their loved ones.
Are you having trouble living the life you want, in part because of circumstances outside your control? Could you use additional support and guidance to navigate the difficulties you face? I provide a warm and accepting environment for you to reflect on your life and your strengths, then develop strategies for using those strengths to meet your goals. My specialties include the struggles of people who identify as LGBTQ and their families, as well as the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses and their loved ones.
(410) 988-3889 View (410) 988-3889
Photo of John Lawrence Potash, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Lawrence Potash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21250
I've been working as a therapist for people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, bereavement, trauma issues, and addictions for over 30 years. I've also done much couples counseling and family counseling. In 2015 I obtained 50 hours training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), now considered the gold standard for treating people with life traumas as well as anxieties (Certified 2022). I've seen great results in faster time on these & other issues since. I look forward to helping you identify the changes you'd like to make and helping you enhance your strengths for achieving your goals.
I've been working as a therapist for people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, bereavement, trauma issues, and addictions for over 30 years. I've also done much couples counseling and family counseling. In 2015 I obtained 50 hours training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), now considered the gold standard for treating people with life traumas as well as anxieties (Certified 2022). I've seen great results in faster time on these & other issues since. I look forward to helping you identify the changes you'd like to make and helping you enhance your strengths for achieving your goals.
(410) 697-5233 View (410) 697-5233
Photo of Tavi Hawn, LCSW-C, MSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tavi Hawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Want to support your transgender or nonbinary child? Looking for a therapist with some shared lived experiences but also plain old therapist experience? People who work with me say things like "I'm worried about a relationship", "Life totally sucks right now and I don't know what to do", "How do I navigate parenthood on top of everything else"?, "It's hard to find my community and I'm lonely", "I've becoming a 'professional gay' which comes with its own challenges" . "I am leaving or have left an abusive relationship". If you're ready for some deep exploration that honors your values, culture, and spiritual practices, let's do it!
Want to support your transgender or nonbinary child? Looking for a therapist with some shared lived experiences but also plain old therapist experience? People who work with me say things like "I'm worried about a relationship", "Life totally sucks right now and I don't know what to do", "How do I navigate parenthood on top of everything else"?, "It's hard to find my community and I'm lonely", "I've becoming a 'professional gay' which comes with its own challenges" . "I am leaving or have left an abusive relationship". If you're ready for some deep exploration that honors your values, culture, and spiritual practices, let's do it!
(443) 843-0360 View (443) 843-0360
Photo of Katie Loomis, PsyD, Psychologist
Katie Loomis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
If you could use some help managing a change, communicating with your partner, coping with a loss or just finding a way to bring more happiness into your life, I would be glad to speak with you. Together we will identify and shift the patterns and coping methods that prevent you from feeling truly satisfied with your life. We will spend our time decreasing blind spots to insight and turning that newfound knowledge into meaningful change.
If you could use some help managing a change, communicating with your partner, coping with a loss or just finding a way to bring more happiness into your life, I would be glad to speak with you. Together we will identify and shift the patterns and coping methods that prevent you from feeling truly satisfied with your life. We will spend our time decreasing blind spots to insight and turning that newfound knowledge into meaningful change.
(443) 602-9147 View (443) 602-9147
Photo of Kathryn Stetler, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Stetler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
I am glad you are here and taking this first step towards the goals you have for yourself. I believe that creating a safe, supportive, open environment can allow my clients the opportunity to move toward healing. I incorporate body work and mindfulness as methods for healing for growth. We all have parts of us that keep us stuck in seasons of life and it is my honor to walk with you to process and examine new strategies to decrease negative symptoms and increase wholeness and health. We can develop patterns in our lives, some learned, some given, and pausing to examine them and develop new strategies is vital to growth and change.
I am glad you are here and taking this first step towards the goals you have for yourself. I believe that creating a safe, supportive, open environment can allow my clients the opportunity to move toward healing. I incorporate body work and mindfulness as methods for healing for growth. We all have parts of us that keep us stuck in seasons of life and it is my honor to walk with you to process and examine new strategies to decrease negative symptoms and increase wholeness and health. We can develop patterns in our lives, some learned, some given, and pausing to examine them and develop new strategies is vital to growth and change.
(410) 844-7605 View (410) 844-7605
Photo of Angelica Shiels, PsyD, Psychologist
Angelica Shiels
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Hi! Find me on TikTok at dr..angelica.shie , where I discuss attachment styles, family systems, child development, communication, emotional regulation, and attunement. My associate, Amanda, is immediately available for relationship consultation! Check out the couples workshop tab at marylandfamilypsychology.com
Hi! Find me on TikTok at dr..angelica.shie , where I discuss attachment styles, family systems, child development, communication, emotional regulation, and attunement. My associate, Amanda, is immediately available for relationship consultation! Check out the couples workshop tab at marylandfamilypsychology.com
(240) 468-4773 View (240) 468-4773
Photo of Dara Gervais, LCPAT, LCPC
Dara Gervais
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPAT, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY. Therapeutic art making, facilitated by a licensed art therapist (me!), can help you to explore feelings, resolve conflicts, work through difficult behaviors and addictions, reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase self-esteem. Art therapy is a treatment of choice for individuals who have experienced trauma. I am a licensed art therapist and counselor, as well as a sand tray therapist, who works with adolescents and adults who are experiencing the effects of trauma and many other emotional difficulties. In addition, I am now incorporating EMDR into my practice.
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY. Therapeutic art making, facilitated by a licensed art therapist (me!), can help you to explore feelings, resolve conflicts, work through difficult behaviors and addictions, reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase self-esteem. Art therapy is a treatment of choice for individuals who have experienced trauma. I am a licensed art therapist and counselor, as well as a sand tray therapist, who works with adolescents and adults who are experiencing the effects of trauma and many other emotional difficulties. In addition, I am now incorporating EMDR into my practice.
(410) 734-3707 View (410) 734-3707
Photo of Bruce Ferguson - Bruce Ferguson, LCPC, LCPC, LCADC, LMFT, Counselor
Bruce Ferguson, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC, LCADC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202
Hi. How are you coping? Life keeps changing so drastically. It doesn't seem real. So many existential questions come to mind, for instance: how will I stay safe?; who's in charge?; what does the future hold? It makes sense that we feel sad, worried or even out of control. This is normal under the circumstances. What gives you joy and peace? What about: sticking to the facts; not panicking; limiting the news; laughter; hobbies; spirituality; loving family, friends and pets to the fullest? Talking to a counselor can also help. I'm available for in-person and virtual sessions. Virtual is convenient, safe and insurance covers it.
Hi. How are you coping? Life keeps changing so drastically. It doesn't seem real. So many existential questions come to mind, for instance: how will I stay safe?; who's in charge?; what does the future hold? It makes sense that we feel sad, worried or even out of control. This is normal under the circumstances. What gives you joy and peace? What about: sticking to the facts; not panicking; limiting the news; laughter; hobbies; spirituality; loving family, friends and pets to the fullest? Talking to a counselor can also help. I'm available for in-person and virtual sessions. Virtual is convenient, safe and insurance covers it.
(443) 371-9846 View (443) 371-9846
Photo of Randall R Myers, PhD, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randall R Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
Glad you found me and I look forward to working with you! I enjoy working directly with people to allow a deeper connection on a personal level whether you're new to therapy or not. I actively engage honestly and authentically in the counseling and healing process, exploring and addressing issues directly as they arise. I allow time for deeper understanding as the counseling process unfolds. I have been a successful clinical social work therapist for many years, working with a wide range of both hearing and deaf people (I sign fluently) on individual, children, youth, couple, and family issues. I also supervise other clinicians.
Glad you found me and I look forward to working with you! I enjoy working directly with people to allow a deeper connection on a personal level whether you're new to therapy or not. I actively engage honestly and authentically in the counseling and healing process, exploring and addressing issues directly as they arise. I allow time for deeper understanding as the counseling process unfolds. I have been a successful clinical social work therapist for many years, working with a wide range of both hearing and deaf people (I sign fluently) on individual, children, youth, couple, and family issues. I also supervise other clinicians.
(301) 918-5780 View (301) 918-5780

See more therapy options for Old Town Area, Baltimore

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
76% Coping Skills
76% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% CareFirst
76% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Old Town Area, Baltimore, MD see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Old Town Area, Baltimore?

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.