Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Kelsey Huber, MA, LPC-A
Kelsey Huber
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Are you seeking clarity, peace and stability in your life? As a team we will work to bring balance through self-discovery and strength. I specialize in trauma treatment, day-to-day stress, behavior change, attachment patterns, maladaptive coping strategies, anxiety, and depression. I believe in examining the self through a lens of understanding and self-compassion. We will discover and break down the roots of why you're not feeling fully satisfied with your life. Through a collaborative social justice oriented approach to counseling, we'll partner together to move towards healing in both a comfortable and challenging manner.
Are you seeking clarity, peace and stability in your life? As a team we will work to bring balance through self-discovery and strength. I specialize in trauma treatment, day-to-day stress, behavior change, attachment patterns, maladaptive coping strategies, anxiety, and depression. I believe in examining the self through a lens of understanding and self-compassion. We will discover and break down the roots of why you're not feeling fully satisfied with your life. Through a collaborative social justice oriented approach to counseling, we'll partner together to move towards healing in both a comfortable and challenging manner.
(971) 264-2266 View (971) 264-2266
Photo of Beth Bloom, PsyD, Psychologist
Beth Bloom
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Not accepting new clients
As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, I approach therapy with the general goal of helping you better understand yourself, what matters to you, and how you exist in the world. Based on what you want to accomplish, together we can continue developing your true self so you can lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. This process often involves a combination of making sense of earlier experiences, working with ongoing patterns, and re-evaluating future expectations or assumptions. By applying contemporary relational therapy approaches and techniques, we will focus on issues and perceptions that may be holding you back.
As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, I approach therapy with the general goal of helping you better understand yourself, what matters to you, and how you exist in the world. Based on what you want to accomplish, together we can continue developing your true self so you can lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. This process often involves a combination of making sense of earlier experiences, working with ongoing patterns, and re-evaluating future expectations or assumptions. By applying contemporary relational therapy approaches and techniques, we will focus on issues and perceptions that may be holding you back.
(917) 725-5025 View (917) 725-5025
Photo of Nicole Falk, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Falk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For many of us, the hardest challenge to overcome is to ask for help. If you're reading this, you've already found the courage to start becoming the best version of yourself. While as an individual you are unique, none of us are perfect and we all experience conflict, hardships, and a variety of emotions. I believe our life experiences as well as cultural background influence the way in which we interact with the world. I am a strong proponent of collaboration and I view the therapeutic relationship as a team. I have daytime availability Monday through Thursday.
For many of us, the hardest challenge to overcome is to ask for help. If you're reading this, you've already found the courage to start becoming the best version of yourself. While as an individual you are unique, none of us are perfect and we all experience conflict, hardships, and a variety of emotions. I believe our life experiences as well as cultural background influence the way in which we interact with the world. I am a strong proponent of collaboration and I view the therapeutic relationship as a team. I have daytime availability Monday through Thursday.
(503) 213-6724 View (503) 213-6724
Photo of Fayanna Johnson - Anchor Within Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anchor Within Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
We all have lived experiences, life choices, and developmental stages which have shaped our story. Seeking therapy, or counseling, can carry a negative stigma in some families and communities. We work to change this perspective, especially concerning issues with youth, families, and racially-diverse communities. We work from a holistic perspective that includes attention to your physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and relational well-being. Our Therapists have a rich blend of experiences including: residential treatment, child welfare, adoption/foster care, parenting support, substance use, family care,& community mental health.
We all have lived experiences, life choices, and developmental stages which have shaped our story. Seeking therapy, or counseling, can carry a negative stigma in some families and communities. We work to change this perspective, especially concerning issues with youth, families, and racially-diverse communities. We work from a holistic perspective that includes attention to your physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and relational well-being. Our Therapists have a rich blend of experiences including: residential treatment, child welfare, adoption/foster care, parenting support, substance use, family care,& community mental health.
(503) 461-4170 View (503) 461-4170
Photo of Mary J Evrard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary J Evrard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients : please send me an email telling me a bit about yourself. My background is working with people struggling with substance abuse, trauma survivors, the LGBTQ community, couples and all forms of families and poly people. I have worked with those with traumatic brain injuries, people with autism, grief and loss, crisis pregnancies, adoption issues, children in foster care and people living with HIV and AIDS. I am proud to have worked in a variety of settings and with people who need support, clarity, and space to heal.
I am currently accepting new clients : please send me an email telling me a bit about yourself. My background is working with people struggling with substance abuse, trauma survivors, the LGBTQ community, couples and all forms of families and poly people. I have worked with those with traumatic brain injuries, people with autism, grief and loss, crisis pregnancies, adoption issues, children in foster care and people living with HIV and AIDS. I am proud to have worked in a variety of settings and with people who need support, clarity, and space to heal.
(971) 247-1194 View (971) 247-1194
Photo of Veronica L Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica L Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Therapy is different for everyone but regardless of circumstance, I offer an empathetic and collaborative experience; together we will diligently work toward your own specific goals, needs, and healing. Most of my clients are looking to improve the health of their relationships, learn how to properly set boundaries, address a trauma history that is negatively affecting their daily life, or more generally address symptoms of anxiety and depression as a whole.
Therapy is different for everyone but regardless of circumstance, I offer an empathetic and collaborative experience; together we will diligently work toward your own specific goals, needs, and healing. Most of my clients are looking to improve the health of their relationships, learn how to properly set boundaries, address a trauma history that is negatively affecting their daily life, or more generally address symptoms of anxiety and depression as a whole.
(503) 213-9872 View (503) 213-9872
Photo of Matt Matteini, MPH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Matteini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I work with clients seeking meaningful change. To recover authenticity, connection, and purpose back into life's experience. We work together to manage the impact of past events. More importantly, we find ways to transcend them in the present, building on strengths to find life balance. Since working with my first client, my clinical approach has evolved to focus on the mind-body connection. Today I often work with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. I am in recovery myself and deeply appreciate meaning making with clients. Your recovery should be a highly individualized experience. Please visit my website for details!
I work with clients seeking meaningful change. To recover authenticity, connection, and purpose back into life's experience. We work together to manage the impact of past events. More importantly, we find ways to transcend them in the present, building on strengths to find life balance. Since working with my first client, my clinical approach has evolved to focus on the mind-body connection. Today I often work with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. I am in recovery myself and deeply appreciate meaning making with clients. Your recovery should be a highly individualized experience. Please visit my website for details!
(503) 374-1882 View (503) 374-1882
Photo of Amelia Bird, MA, LMFT, PPSC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amelia Bird
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am a counselor and psychotherapist with a passion for working with children over 10, adolescents, and adults who are recovering from childhood wounds, or who want to find new ways of relating to themselves or others. I have a master's degree in counseling psychology from Saint Mary's College of California and a state license in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also hold a credential in school counseling and served as a mental health provider and counselor at all K-12 grade levels. I was a counseling-skills trainer and adjunct faculty member in the graduate counseling department at Saint Mary's College.
I am a counselor and psychotherapist with a passion for working with children over 10, adolescents, and adults who are recovering from childhood wounds, or who want to find new ways of relating to themselves or others. I have a master's degree in counseling psychology from Saint Mary's College of California and a state license in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also hold a credential in school counseling and served as a mental health provider and counselor at all K-12 grade levels. I was a counseling-skills trainer and adjunct faculty member in the graduate counseling department at Saint Mary's College.
(503) 549-4943 View (503) 549-4943
Photo of Whitney Preece, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Whitney Preece
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
You're your best expert; my role is as counselor and coach. Specialties include relationship and family issues, parenting, postpartum adjustment, fertility issues, perimenopause/menopause, depression/anxiety, codependency, grief, childhood trauma/loss, self esteem issues and life transitions. My goal is for you to leave therapy with a sense of relief from your struggles and tools to cope with what's to come.
You're your best expert; my role is as counselor and coach. Specialties include relationship and family issues, parenting, postpartum adjustment, fertility issues, perimenopause/menopause, depression/anxiety, codependency, grief, childhood trauma/loss, self esteem issues and life transitions. My goal is for you to leave therapy with a sense of relief from your struggles and tools to cope with what's to come.
(971) 236-5070 View (971) 236-5070
Photo of Melodee A Smith - Quiet Mind Counseling Services, LLC, LPC, CCSOT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Quiet Mind Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCSOT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
My approach to treatment includes a combination of both Cognitive-Behavioral and Narrative theories. These two approaches aim to look at how thoughts and ideas influence emotions and effect behaviors and decisions. In addition, this approach attempts to separate the problem from the individual and often uses homework assignments, journaling, and mindfulness exercises as therapeutic interventions. I believe that the counseling experience is a sacred one. You, as the client, have the power to make healthy and helpful choices in your life. It is my role to assist you in this journey.
My approach to treatment includes a combination of both Cognitive-Behavioral and Narrative theories. These two approaches aim to look at how thoughts and ideas influence emotions and effect behaviors and decisions. In addition, this approach attempts to separate the problem from the individual and often uses homework assignments, journaling, and mindfulness exercises as therapeutic interventions. I believe that the counseling experience is a sacred one. You, as the client, have the power to make healthy and helpful choices in your life. It is my role to assist you in this journey.
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Photo of Graham Borgman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Graham Borgman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work well with individuals who are curious about their own minds and emotions. Individuals who can benefit from working with me are those who wish to understand and move through their suffering, as well as to enjoy the vitality that the healing process can bring. Reasons for seeking therapy which I work well with include: Anxiety & stress, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Relationship issues, Existential concerns, Difficulty with self-expression, Feelings of guilt & shame, Self criticism & self-esteem issues, Anger issues, Life transitions, Many more: just ask!
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work well with individuals who are curious about their own minds and emotions. Individuals who can benefit from working with me are those who wish to understand and move through their suffering, as well as to enjoy the vitality that the healing process can bring. Reasons for seeking therapy which I work well with include: Anxiety & stress, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Relationship issues, Existential concerns, Difficulty with self-expression, Feelings of guilt & shame, Self criticism & self-esteem issues, Anger issues, Life transitions, Many more: just ask!
(503) 714-7078 View (503) 714-7078
Photo of Merrill Weyerhaeuser, PhD, Psychologist
Merrill Weyerhaeuser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with adults and older adolescents who are interested in reflecting on their personal experience in order to deepen their lives. I appreciate how risky it can feel when delving into this kind of process; I also know how profound such exploration can be. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can provide a space to enhance one's understanding, compassion and emotional flexibility.
I enjoy working with adults and older adolescents who are interested in reflecting on their personal experience in order to deepen their lives. I appreciate how risky it can feel when delving into this kind of process; I also know how profound such exploration can be. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can provide a space to enhance one's understanding, compassion and emotional flexibility.
(503) 883-8092 View (503) 883-8092
Photo of Lacy Cooper, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lacy Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I believe that everyone wants to feel loved, appreciated & valued. I enjoy helping individuals identify repeating lifelong patterns that prevent this from happening. Sometimes life can be confusing and frustrating and it can feel that you have tried everything to "fix" a feeling/situation/self belief and can end up feeling pretty hopeless though I can help you to identify your strengths, provide support and work with you so that you can lead the life you currently are dreaming about.
I believe that everyone wants to feel loved, appreciated & valued. I enjoy helping individuals identify repeating lifelong patterns that prevent this from happening. Sometimes life can be confusing and frustrating and it can feel that you have tried everything to "fix" a feeling/situation/self belief and can end up feeling pretty hopeless though I can help you to identify your strengths, provide support and work with you so that you can lead the life you currently are dreaming about.
(503) 925-3117 View (503) 925-3117
Photo of Kevin Govro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Govro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Not accepting new clients
Asking for help is a hard to do so I give all of you credit who are looking for a therapist. I feel like if you are motivated to make positive changes in your life and/or want to heal from past trauma/other issues that we will work well together. I believe that everyone can achieve a higher level of life satisfaction and effectiveness by working through their personal challenges. I work from the perspective of a focus on progress and know that nobody goes from a place of struggling to their goal overnight. It is important to be patient with yourself and know that consistent effort will add up in the end to the change you want.
Asking for help is a hard to do so I give all of you credit who are looking for a therapist. I feel like if you are motivated to make positive changes in your life and/or want to heal from past trauma/other issues that we will work well together. I believe that everyone can achieve a higher level of life satisfaction and effectiveness by working through their personal challenges. I work from the perspective of a focus on progress and know that nobody goes from a place of struggling to their goal overnight. It is important to be patient with yourself and know that consistent effort will add up in the end to the change you want.
(503) 749-9993 View (503) 749-9993
Photo of Caretia A Silva, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caretia A Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I have been a therapist for over 20 years, have trained in multiple approaches and am consistently deepening and refining my practice. I have specialized in childhood development, anxiety, neurodiversity, trauma focused and trauma informed care with all ages. Let's connect if you are you curious about what makes you tick, have found yourself in a phase of life that is difficult, confusing, challenging or scary, live with anxiety, or hoping to heal from trauma or generational trauma.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years, have trained in multiple approaches and am consistently deepening and refining my practice. I have specialized in childhood development, anxiety, neurodiversity, trauma focused and trauma informed care with all ages. Let's connect if you are you curious about what makes you tick, have found yourself in a phase of life that is difficult, confusing, challenging or scary, live with anxiety, or hoping to heal from trauma or generational trauma.
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Photo of Nichole Aimonetti - Nichole Aimonetti, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Aimonetti, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck? Do you become fearful or avoidant in certain places? If anxiety, fear or depression has taken hold in your life - there is effective help. I am an expert in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and evidence based practice (EBP.) I provide treatments and teach you the skills you need to manage your feelings and find new ways to solve problems. By helping you identify and replace negative thinking and behavior patterns you gain control and are able to live the life you want.
Do you feel stuck? Do you become fearful or avoidant in certain places? If anxiety, fear or depression has taken hold in your life - there is effective help. I am an expert in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and evidence based practice (EBP.) I provide treatments and teach you the skills you need to manage your feelings and find new ways to solve problems. By helping you identify and replace negative thinking and behavior patterns you gain control and are able to live the life you want.
(503) 536-1041 View (503) 536-1041
Photo of Emily Eldar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Eldar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Most of our struggles are relational in nature. As a relationship expert, I will guide you toward healing your relational wounds; to step into the self-actualized, meaningful, joyful life you dream of. We all sustain traumas which shape our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. When we understand our protective strategies we can then update our narratives, unburden our traumatized parts, heal attachment wounds, and make room to relate through our highest self. We can learn new skills in communication, somatic regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, and more fully build the life which best serves our continual growth.
Most of our struggles are relational in nature. As a relationship expert, I will guide you toward healing your relational wounds; to step into the self-actualized, meaningful, joyful life you dream of. We all sustain traumas which shape our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. When we understand our protective strategies we can then update our narratives, unburden our traumatized parts, heal attachment wounds, and make room to relate through our highest self. We can learn new skills in communication, somatic regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, and more fully build the life which best serves our continual growth.
(971) 236-5052 View (971) 236-5052
Photo of Lauren Summer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Summer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Everyone has a different path in therapy. No matter what issues you are struggling with, it is possible to find peace and achieve a more meaningful life. Some of the things I enjoy working with include: childhood trauma, attachment issues, OCD, PTSD, men's issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
Everyone has a different path in therapy. No matter what issues you are struggling with, it is possible to find peace and achieve a more meaningful life. Some of the things I enjoy working with include: childhood trauma, attachment issues, OCD, PTSD, men's issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
(971) 256-8351 View (971) 256-8351
Photo of Rachel Abel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Are you a teenager or adult seeking support via telehealth? I'm passionate about working with individuals aged 13 and upwards, especially adolescents. My approach to therapy is client-focused, drawing from various models to meet your unique needs. I create a safe space using a trauma informed, developmental and family systems approach. My training in TF-CBT for children and adolescents, along with Solution Focused, Strengths Based, Mindfulness, Narrative, Positive Psychology, IFS and ACT strategies, allows me to provide effective, personalized care.
Are you a teenager or adult seeking support via telehealth? I'm passionate about working with individuals aged 13 and upwards, especially adolescents. My approach to therapy is client-focused, drawing from various models to meet your unique needs. I create a safe space using a trauma informed, developmental and family systems approach. My training in TF-CBT for children and adolescents, along with Solution Focused, Strengths Based, Mindfulness, Narrative, Positive Psychology, IFS and ACT strategies, allows me to provide effective, personalized care.
(971) 318-2772 View (971) 318-2772
Photo of Justine Lockhart, MS
Justine Lockhart
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Are you navigating anxiety and stressful situations such as interpersonal conflict, social anxiety, school anxiety, and work stress? Do you long to engage in self-discovery in terms of identity (sexuality, gender, who you are in relation to others, life dreams, etc.)? Are you experiencing life transitions such as leaving for college, a breakup, a new career, or moving? Do you live with OCD? Do you want to create a more meaningful life in alignment with your values?
Are you navigating anxiety and stressful situations such as interpersonal conflict, social anxiety, school anxiety, and work stress? Do you long to engage in self-discovery in terms of identity (sexuality, gender, who you are in relation to others, life dreams, etc.)? Are you experiencing life transitions such as leaving for college, a breakup, a new career, or moving? Do you live with OCD? Do you want to create a more meaningful life in alignment with your values?
(971) 257-8275 View (971) 257-8275
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

52% PacificSource
49% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
22% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.