Therapists in Kittery, ME

Photo of Gail Picillo, MSEd
Gail Picillo
MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kittery, ME 03904
Hi, my name is Gail. If you are looking for a unique approach to help you navigate your life journey, feel free to explore my services. I specialize in guiding individuals aged 18 and older through life’s challenges. My approach is both holistic and customized, addressing mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. I have combined my Counseling education and Yoga Therapy training to create a personalized comprehensive therapeutic plan tailored to your unique needs.
Hi, my name is Gail. If you are looking for a unique approach to help you navigate your life journey, feel free to explore my services. I specialize in guiding individuals aged 18 and older through life’s challenges. My approach is both holistic and customized, addressing mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. I have combined my Counseling education and Yoga Therapy training to create a personalized comprehensive therapeutic plan tailored to your unique needs.
(617) 564-3052 View (617) 564-3052
Cheryl's Addiction Hot Line
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Hi! My name is Cheryl and thank you for clicking on my profile. I work with clients who have mental health and addiction conditions treating them simultaneously. My work history has been working with clients both inpatient and on an outpatient basis. I meet clients where they are at in their lives. Most of clients have stayed with me for a while or on a longer term basis. During and now after COVID clients feel isolated and the loneliness is a huge struggle. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me anytime.
Hi! My name is Cheryl and thank you for clicking on my profile. I work with clients who have mental health and addiction conditions treating them simultaneously. My work history has been working with clients both inpatient and on an outpatient basis. I meet clients where they are at in their lives. Most of clients have stayed with me for a while or on a longer term basis. During and now after COVID clients feel isolated and the loneliness is a huge struggle. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me anytime.
(207) 605-5221 View (207) 605-5221
Photo of Toni Bennett, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
(207) 560-0905 View (207) 560-0905
Photo of Sandra J Ward, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra J Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I work with children, teens and adults in person in my office, as well as, provide telehealth. I have several years of experience providing many treatment areas that include, but are not limited to the following: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting Support, Trauma/PTSD, Self Esteem, Grief & Loss, and Life changes. I believe in a therapeutic approach that is strengths based and client centered. I work with each individual based on their specific emotional and or behavioral needs in an environment that is comfortable and supportive
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I work with children, teens and adults in person in my office, as well as, provide telehealth. I have several years of experience providing many treatment areas that include, but are not limited to the following: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting Support, Trauma/PTSD, Self Esteem, Grief & Loss, and Life changes. I believe in a therapeutic approach that is strengths based and client centered. I work with each individual based on their specific emotional and or behavioral needs in an environment that is comfortable and supportive
(207) 802-0499 View (207) 802-0499
Photo of Lawrence Newman, MEd, LCPC, LADC, CCFC, Counselor
Lawrence Newman
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, LADC, CCFC
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Has anyone ever criticized your drinking? Have you had problems related to drug use? I have over 20 years experience working with individuals with mental health and substance abuse problems. My specialties include treating addiction, depression and anxiety, recovery from trauma, and the coping skills that are needed to manage these issues. Substance abuse leading to Addiction is an unhealthy coping mechanism often related to underlying causes. I provide a safe environment where we can work on resolving the internal struggle that is holding you back. With my client-centered approach, we can work together to improve your life.
Has anyone ever criticized your drinking? Have you had problems related to drug use? I have over 20 years experience working with individuals with mental health and substance abuse problems. My specialties include treating addiction, depression and anxiety, recovery from trauma, and the coping skills that are needed to manage these issues. Substance abuse leading to Addiction is an unhealthy coping mechanism often related to underlying causes. I provide a safe environment where we can work on resolving the internal struggle that is holding you back. With my client-centered approach, we can work together to improve your life.
(603) 764-7104 View (603) 764-7104
Photo of Deirdre Donchian, ADHD, Coach, LCSW, LCISW, PCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deirdre Donchian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ADHD, Coach, LCSW, LCISW, PCAC
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904  (Online Only)
Life can have a way of tossing us around and undermining our sense of self and belonging. The focus of my practice is people who have ADD/ADHD or symptoms related to ADD/ADHD such as weak Executive Function which can lead to Anxiety and related Depression. These challenges can leave us feeling unmoored, uncertain, unhappy and unfulfilled often struggling to find our way. I offer ADHD Coaching to older Teens, Young Adults and Adults as well as parental support regardless of geographical location. My therapeutic practice is limited to MA, NH and ME. The working environment is one of trust and safety to discover a deeper self-knowing.
Life can have a way of tossing us around and undermining our sense of self and belonging. The focus of my practice is people who have ADD/ADHD or symptoms related to ADD/ADHD such as weak Executive Function which can lead to Anxiety and related Depression. These challenges can leave us feeling unmoored, uncertain, unhappy and unfulfilled often struggling to find our way. I offer ADHD Coaching to older Teens, Young Adults and Adults as well as parental support regardless of geographical location. My therapeutic practice is limited to MA, NH and ME. The working environment is one of trust and safety to discover a deeper self-knowing.
(207) 994-5358 View (207) 994-5358
Photo of Megan Taylor, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals to enhance their feelings of self-confidence and self-empowerment to achieve their life goals. I appreciate working with couples to improve their communication with one another and help them to regain a foundation of affection and friendship. I offer family therapy to assist families in identifying their areas of conflict and family dynamics to improve their communication and cohesiveness as a family. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults to explore their life direction, increase their motivation to achieve goals, including academic goals, and to make positive decisions.
I enjoy working with individuals to enhance their feelings of self-confidence and self-empowerment to achieve their life goals. I appreciate working with couples to improve their communication with one another and help them to regain a foundation of affection and friendship. I offer family therapy to assist families in identifying their areas of conflict and family dynamics to improve their communication and cohesiveness as a family. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults to explore their life direction, increase their motivation to achieve goals, including academic goals, and to make positive decisions.
(603) 509-3094 View (603) 509-3094
Photo of Mary Richardson Satterthwaite, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Richardson Satterthwaite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
It has been an honor to be practicing for more than 30 years as a psychotherapist, working individually with children, adolescents and adults, as well as with families and couples. I appreciate the amount of courage it takes for clients to enter therapy. My approach is collaborative, based on connection and trust. We work together as a team, forming goals and strategies. My E.F.T.C. (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy) approach has been particularly effective in helping couples enhance their relationship by gaining access to their attachment longings.
It has been an honor to be practicing for more than 30 years as a psychotherapist, working individually with children, adolescents and adults, as well as with families and couples. I appreciate the amount of courage it takes for clients to enter therapy. My approach is collaborative, based on connection and trust. We work together as a team, forming goals and strategies. My E.F.T.C. (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy) approach has been particularly effective in helping couples enhance their relationship by gaining access to their attachment longings.
(603) 782-4135 View (603) 782-4135
Photo of Pamela Ellen Blodgett - Brain Training Center of New England, MEd, BCN
Brain Training Center of New England
MEd, BCN
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
For the past 35 years I have worked in the field of counseling, education, and in the field of disability. It has been my fervent hope to find a therapeutic approach to neurological problems. When I encountered The field of brain training, also called neurofeedback, I knew I had found my life work. Since 2009 I have been providing a natural and non-invasive treatment for conditions that cover the gamut. ADD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, seizure disorder, brain injury, trauma, accident, stroke, developmental differences, sleep disorder, headache, chronic fatigue, and tics as well as OCD.
For the past 35 years I have worked in the field of counseling, education, and in the field of disability. It has been my fervent hope to find a therapeutic approach to neurological problems. When I encountered The field of brain training, also called neurofeedback, I knew I had found my life work. Since 2009 I have been providing a natural and non-invasive treatment for conditions that cover the gamut. ADD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, seizure disorder, brain injury, trauma, accident, stroke, developmental differences, sleep disorder, headache, chronic fatigue, and tics as well as OCD.
(603) 392-7757 View (603) 392-7757
Photo of Debra Rose Fredette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Rose Fredette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Welcome to my practice. I have worked with couples, families, and individuals for 25 years helping to heal from trauma, affairs, and early life experiences that get in the way of having warm loving relationships and individual joy. It can be challenging to take the first step to move toward a better and more fulfilling life. Often we fear judgement. I can help you develop an understanding of the issues that are keeping you from living the best life possible. I will work with you to identify the underlying barriers and develop problem solving skills and strategies to cope with issues outside of your control.
Welcome to my practice. I have worked with couples, families, and individuals for 25 years helping to heal from trauma, affairs, and early life experiences that get in the way of having warm loving relationships and individual joy. It can be challenging to take the first step to move toward a better and more fulfilling life. Often we fear judgement. I can help you develop an understanding of the issues that are keeping you from living the best life possible. I will work with you to identify the underlying barriers and develop problem solving skills and strategies to cope with issues outside of your control.
(207) 358-4305 View (207) 358-4305
Photo of Shelley Drake, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley Drake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
When life finds you in rough waters there is no reason to paddle alone. I work with individuals and families to help get through tough times. Mood, health, and stressors can be chronic, temporary or both. There are ways to work through difficult circumstances without feeling like a sinking ship.
When life finds you in rough waters there is no reason to paddle alone. I work with individuals and families to help get through tough times. Mood, health, and stressors can be chronic, temporary or both. There are ways to work through difficult circumstances without feeling like a sinking ship.
(603) 389-6457 View (603) 389-6457
Photo of Jack Lynch - --None--, LADCII, CADCI, CARC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
--None--
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADCII, CADCI, CARC
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904  (Online Only)
Individual addiction therapy and recovery coaching for adults struggling with alcohol or substance use. Jack uses Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness to help individuals find their own path to recovery. All appointments are telehealth. Case management prices are made on case by case basis.
Individual addiction therapy and recovery coaching for adults struggling with alcohol or substance use. Jack uses Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness to help individuals find their own path to recovery. All appointments are telehealth. Case management prices are made on case by case basis.
(339) 330-3898 View (339) 330-3898
Photo of Clare Righini, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clare Righini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904  (Online Only)
Everything changes, but the feeling of change. It can be hard to find the way on your own. Everyone can use a little extra support now and then. Especially if you have recently gone through a significant change in your life or you are anticipating one. By successfully working through these changes, you will not only find your way, but you will gain coping skills for future change.
Everything changes, but the feeling of change. It can be hard to find the way on your own. Everyone can use a little extra support now and then. Especially if you have recently gone through a significant change in your life or you are anticipating one. By successfully working through these changes, you will not only find your way, but you will gain coping skills for future change.
(207) 560-0152 View (207) 560-0152
Photo of Christina Marie Casavant-Towers, MEd, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Christina Marie Casavant-Towers
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kittery, ME 03904
Christina loves helping others and enjoys using humor, and person centered therapy to assist clients with dealing with today's challenges. She likes to help clients write their own story and what their life should be and with free of judgment. Christina can assist with managing goals and other behaviors throughout the lifespan, but she will try and go to the core and find what is going on to help you. She is further trauma certified and has experience with a variety of diagnosis, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, neurodiversity, and much more. Christina is licensed in Massachusetts and Maine.
Christina loves helping others and enjoys using humor, and person centered therapy to assist clients with dealing with today's challenges. She likes to help clients write their own story and what their life should be and with free of judgment. Christina can assist with managing goals and other behaviors throughout the lifespan, but she will try and go to the core and find what is going on to help you. She is further trauma certified and has experience with a variety of diagnosis, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, neurodiversity, and much more. Christina is licensed in Massachusetts and Maine.
(508) 257-7892 View (508) 257-7892
Photo of Diane Lambert, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904  (Online Only)
I have 36+ years of experience providing counseling to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. Currently I'm seeing clients via telehealth only. Using IFS, I offer effective ways for addressing trauma, anxiety and depression; I have extensive experience helping individuals with codependency, and self esteem issues. I provide compassionate and empowering assistance to those in pain. With children, I have much experience treating ADHD, social anxiety. I currently work with parents only. My group focuses on Women's Codependency recovery issues. I offer gender affirming care and work with the LGBTQ+ community.
I have 36+ years of experience providing counseling to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. Currently I'm seeing clients via telehealth only. Using IFS, I offer effective ways for addressing trauma, anxiety and depression; I have extensive experience helping individuals with codependency, and self esteem issues. I provide compassionate and empowering assistance to those in pain. With children, I have much experience treating ADHD, social anxiety. I currently work with parents only. My group focuses on Women's Codependency recovery issues. I offer gender affirming care and work with the LGBTQ+ community.
(207) 358-6257 View (207) 358-6257
Photo of Elisa Monahan, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Elisa Monahan
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
At times, we find ourselves in seasons of life where we may feel disoriented and easily overwhelmed. We can begin questioning ourselves and wondering if we’ve chartered off course or lost our way. During challenging times, it can be easy to feel overburdened by heavy emotions, intrusive thoughts, and the simple tasks of everyday life. Navigating relationships, careers, finances, and other responsibilities can pile up and take their toll on our well-being.
At times, we find ourselves in seasons of life where we may feel disoriented and easily overwhelmed. We can begin questioning ourselves and wondering if we’ve chartered off course or lost our way. During challenging times, it can be easy to feel overburdened by heavy emotions, intrusive thoughts, and the simple tasks of everyday life. Navigating relationships, careers, finances, and other responsibilities can pile up and take their toll on our well-being.
(855) 329-4276 View (855) 329-4276
Photo of Juleen Ann Chiaradonna, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Juleen Ann Chiaradonna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904  (Online Only)
Hello! If you are reading this and looking for help you are right where you need to be :) I like to think of myself as an "UNshrink" . I believe in helping to de-pathologize you and whatever it is that you are struggling w, and helping you to experience your self, situation, and LIFE in a whole new way. I'm usually a good fit for ppl that aren't into traditional "therapy" for whatever reason: anxiety, skepticism, bad or unsuccessful past experiences, if you think you, your family, everything is/are beyond hope, or if you are interested in something completely "outside the box", bc that is me.
Hello! If you are reading this and looking for help you are right where you need to be :) I like to think of myself as an "UNshrink" . I believe in helping to de-pathologize you and whatever it is that you are struggling w, and helping you to experience your self, situation, and LIFE in a whole new way. I'm usually a good fit for ppl that aren't into traditional "therapy" for whatever reason: anxiety, skepticism, bad or unsuccessful past experiences, if you think you, your family, everything is/are beyond hope, or if you are interested in something completely "outside the box", bc that is me.
(603) 387-4388 View (603) 387-4388
Photo of Elizabeth Ehret Bardwell, LCPC, NCC, MS
Elizabeth Ehret Bardwell
Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Not accepting new clients
Finding the right fit in a therapist is vital for success in therapy. I've been successful working with motivated individuals, couples and families who want to identify and work to resolve specific issues. I've helped couples reconnect with one another. I've helped individuals reduce their symptoms of anxiety, depression or addictive behaviors. I have experience helping to resolve trauma of various types. Transitions in life can be difficult and I am able to help with different stages in life like leaving home for the first time, empty nest, divorce, death of a spouse, changing jobs, retirement.
Finding the right fit in a therapist is vital for success in therapy. I've been successful working with motivated individuals, couples and families who want to identify and work to resolve specific issues. I've helped couples reconnect with one another. I've helped individuals reduce their symptoms of anxiety, depression or addictive behaviors. I have experience helping to resolve trauma of various types. Transitions in life can be difficult and I am able to help with different stages in life like leaving home for the first time, empty nest, divorce, death of a spouse, changing jobs, retirement.
(207) 245-1473 View (207) 245-1473
Photo of Wendy Hoge - Wendy Hoge LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Hoge LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
I have worked with a wide variety of clients for over 25 years. I value the diversity of experience they bring to me and always place the cleint's own goals at the center of the therapy relationship. My practice is client centered and I act as the guide and collaborator in their journey. I also am trained in Conflict Resolution/Divorce Mediation as a viable alternative to costly litigated divorce.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients for over 25 years. I value the diversity of experience they bring to me and always place the cleint's own goals at the center of the therapy relationship. My practice is client centered and I act as the guide and collaborator in their journey. I also am trained in Conflict Resolution/Divorce Mediation as a viable alternative to costly litigated divorce.
(207) 420-2231 View (207) 420-2231
Photo of Tyler Huffaker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyler Huffaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and confusion and are hoping for a better tomorrow? Life happens leaving us overwhelmed, confused and alone. When this occurs we look to others for help and at times we seek out an unbiased professional to help in the healing process. I have worked in many places throughout the United States and have treated many people regardless of age who are suffering because of difficult and or traumatic life experience. I have worked with military veterans, adolescents, professionals and individuals who have been severely traumatized and marginalized.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and confusion and are hoping for a better tomorrow? Life happens leaving us overwhelmed, confused and alone. When this occurs we look to others for help and at times we seek out an unbiased professional to help in the healing process. I have worked in many places throughout the United States and have treated many people regardless of age who are suffering because of difficult and or traumatic life experience. I have worked with military veterans, adolescents, professionals and individuals who have been severely traumatized and marginalized.
(435) 580-4297 View (435) 580-4297
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kittery, ME

50+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Kittery, ME who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
77% Coping Skills
74% Trauma and PTSD
72% Grief
65% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

68% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Cigna and Evernorth
61% Anthem

How Therapists in Kittery, ME see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kittery?

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.