Therapists in Ames, IA
![Photo of Sherry Hall - Yss, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eba92e2a-a3b4-4fe0-8a58-25037c70fd08/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a certified alcohol and drug counselor with YSS since June 2023. I completed my undergraduate at Buena Vista University with a BA in Corporate Communication and received her certificate in Addictions Studies from St. Louis Community College in Missouri. I obtained my CADC in 2023. I provide SUD assessments and individual and group counseling in EOP and IOP. I enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, and kayaking with my dog. I meet with clients in Ames, Boone, Marshalltown,and Webster City in person or virtually.
I am a certified alcohol and drug counselor with YSS since June 2023. I completed my undergraduate at Buena Vista University with a BA in Corporate Communication and received her certificate in Addictions Studies from St. Louis Community College in Missouri. I obtained my CADC in 2023. I provide SUD assessments and individual and group counseling in EOP and IOP. I enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, and kayaking with my dog. I meet with clients in Ames, Boone, Marshalltown,and Webster City in person or virtually.
![Photo of Andrew Bradley, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b4f5a62-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a retired Marine, a licensed pilot, a scuba diver, and a linguist, I have a varied and multicultural background and am able to connect well with people of different cultures. In addition to a Masters in Professional Counseling, I have a Seminary degree in Pastoral Counseling. After serving as an Arabic and Persian Farsi linguist in the Marine Corps, I decided to continue a life of service by helping people find healing and personal growth. As a Veteran who served in Iraq and in Combat, I have special insight to help fellow Service Members.
As a retired Marine, a licensed pilot, a scuba diver, and a linguist, I have a varied and multicultural background and am able to connect well with people of different cultures. In addition to a Masters in Professional Counseling, I have a Seminary degree in Pastoral Counseling. After serving as an Arabic and Persian Farsi linguist in the Marine Corps, I decided to continue a life of service by helping people find healing and personal growth. As a Veteran who served in Iraq and in Combat, I have special insight to help fellow Service Members.
![Photo of Dr. Ashely Frieswyk, PsyD, LP, CMPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c679d2b-5087-4d16-9e48-c909407a14a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ashely Frieswyk
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, CMPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients! I am a Clinical and Sport Psychologist and view sitting with a client as a humbling and rewarding experience. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship serves as the foundation to growth. My work is collaborative, integrative, and flexible. I work to balance interpersonal processes, insight-building, and skill development. My style is rooted in being client-centered, exploring the relationship between thought, emotion, and behavioral processes, acceptance and commitment, value driven behavior, and multicultural humility.
Accepting NEW Clients! I am a Clinical and Sport Psychologist and view sitting with a client as a humbling and rewarding experience. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship serves as the foundation to growth. My work is collaborative, integrative, and flexible. I work to balance interpersonal processes, insight-building, and skill development. My style is rooted in being client-centered, exploring the relationship between thought, emotion, and behavioral processes, acceptance and commitment, value driven behavior, and multicultural humility.
![Photo of Melinda Ann Wadsley, MS, NCC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e53ef0de-7aae-4b7f-8b0a-7a8bbe256f58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am a person-centered and strengths-based counselor. I am trained in Solution Focused Brief Therapy (which is a type of CBT) and hypnosis. I specialize in young adults, career counseling, couples counseling, and women's issues. I also work with children of all ages and their parents. I have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2009. If you are looking for a warm, positive, and experienced counselor, give me a call. :) I also have a team of counselors who work with me and I would be happy to introduce you to any of them.
Hello, I am a person-centered and strengths-based counselor. I am trained in Solution Focused Brief Therapy (which is a type of CBT) and hypnosis. I specialize in young adults, career counseling, couples counseling, and women's issues. I also work with children of all ages and their parents. I have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2009. If you are looking for a warm, positive, and experienced counselor, give me a call. :) I also have a team of counselors who work with me and I would be happy to introduce you to any of them.
![Photo of Cassie St Aubin, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33f87762-4be3-4f61-9fcf-df353b0a4715/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie St Aubin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Cassie, a licensed Mental Health Counselor with a specialization in Art Therapy. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach to counseling, and like to encourage artmaking in session. Creating in session is not a requirement. However, using art materials in therapy offers a chance to actively process what we talk about, and engages the brain and body in our therapeutic work. My education and professional experience specifically equipped me to use artmaking in a safe, trauma-informed, culturally responsible, and affirmi
I’m Cassie, a licensed Mental Health Counselor with a specialization in Art Therapy. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach to counseling, and like to encourage artmaking in session. Creating in session is not a requirement. However, using art materials in therapy offers a chance to actively process what we talk about, and engages the brain and body in our therapeutic work. My education and professional experience specifically equipped me to use artmaking in a safe, trauma-informed, culturally responsible, and affirmi
![Photo of Andrew McGinn, tLMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a7cff86-01e3-4d06-af1f-7745fb9a372a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to live, laugh, and love again? (Did I really just open my Psychology Today profile by ripping off everyone’s favorite/least favorite home décor slogan?) Seriously, though, life is too short to be miserable. It’s my hope that our time together will empower you to live with more purpose. I approach therapy in an informal way, because counseling doesn’t have to be so uptight. It’s OK to laugh! I spent 23 years as a newspaper feature writer before changing careers, writing thousands of stories. I now want my clients to look at the narrative of their lives and choose, for themselves, the direction their own story takes.
Are you ready to live, laugh, and love again? (Did I really just open my Psychology Today profile by ripping off everyone’s favorite/least favorite home décor slogan?) Seriously, though, life is too short to be miserable. It’s my hope that our time together will empower you to live with more purpose. I approach therapy in an informal way, because counseling doesn’t have to be so uptight. It’s OK to laugh! I spent 23 years as a newspaper feature writer before changing careers, writing thousands of stories. I now want my clients to look at the narrative of their lives and choose, for themselves, the direction their own story takes.
![Photo of Meredith Francom, MA, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f3a561d-49c7-412d-b929-1e6805e73cc3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Francom
Counselor, MA, tLMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
I truly believe that forming a genuine connection is where the magic happens in counseling. My whole approach revolves around building a strong bond that paves the way for healing. I make it a point to create a safe and supportive space where you can be your true self and feel totally accepted. We'll team up to help you understand who you are, dig into how the past shapes your present, look at how different systems affect your well-being, and learn strategies and skills for moving forward.
I truly believe that forming a genuine connection is where the magic happens in counseling. My whole approach revolves around building a strong bond that paves the way for healing. I make it a point to create a safe and supportive space where you can be your true self and feel totally accepted. We'll team up to help you understand who you are, dig into how the past shapes your present, look at how different systems affect your well-being, and learn strategies and skills for moving forward.
![Photo of Austin Cross, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6e47dca-0e31-4541-bb21-b35a35bc7721/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to aiding individuals facing academic and career difficulties, addiction, adjustment struggles, and anxiety. I blend empathy with evidence-based techniques to foster growth and healing. Together, we'll explore challenges, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for a fulfilling life. You're not alone on this journey; let's work together towards wellness.
I am dedicated to aiding individuals facing academic and career difficulties, addiction, adjustment struggles, and anxiety. I blend empathy with evidence-based techniques to foster growth and healing. Together, we'll explore challenges, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for a fulfilling life. You're not alone on this journey; let's work together towards wellness.
![Photo of Anna Perry - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b0179f-eb50-4764-bf56-d1ddcc421c47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Carlie Dellmann, MA, tLMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5c999b1-479b-4fb6-89a7-f4bcfc95f71f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting clients age 8 and up. The decision to start therapy for yourself or your child can be an overwhelming, daunting task. My hope is that this information will ease some of those fears and empower you to make the decision that is best for you. I will work with you collaboratively to create therapeutic goals and to develop the skills to achieve them. I hope to provide room for you to explore both your difficulties along with your strengths and achievements.
Currently accepting clients age 8 and up. The decision to start therapy for yourself or your child can be an overwhelming, daunting task. My hope is that this information will ease some of those fears and empower you to make the decision that is best for you. I will work with you collaboratively to create therapeutic goals and to develop the skills to achieve them. I hope to provide room for you to explore both your difficulties along with your strengths and achievements.
![Photo of Kay Foster, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20a396f3-c3ae-4866-baf1-b9e6fff8dbd4/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all have a self that we present to the world, and then we have our authentic self. I am passionate about helping my clients find and become more of their truest, authentic selves. I want to get to know who you really are; your strengths, struggles, and everything in between. Your story is important and worthy of being shared. And by doing so, you can start to heal and find clarity in it.
We all have a self that we present to the world, and then we have our authentic self. I am passionate about helping my clients find and become more of their truest, authentic selves. I want to get to know who you really are; your strengths, struggles, and everything in between. Your story is important and worthy of being shared. And by doing so, you can start to heal and find clarity in it.
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![Photo of Elaine Aubin O'Neal - Elaine O'Neal, PLC - Safe Harbour Counseling, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d364e58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elaine O'Neal, PLC - Safe Harbour Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
I believe in a strengths based approach and challenge people to seek new perspectives in navigating through their lives. I enjoy meeting and working with people to help them find a renewed confidence in themselves and their abilities. I work with all ages providing support to better manage daily stressors and relational issues and foster self empowerment. Life can get complicated. You don't have to go through it alone. I'm here to help.
I believe in a strengths based approach and challenge people to seek new perspectives in navigating through their lives. I enjoy meeting and working with people to help them find a renewed confidence in themselves and their abilities. I work with all ages providing support to better manage daily stressors and relational issues and foster self empowerment. Life can get complicated. You don't have to go through it alone. I'm here to help.
![Photo of Tami Wirth Hunter, LISW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/465e7755-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tami Wirth Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Are you seeking compassionate therapy for yourself or your child? Look no further! I'm a Registered Play Therapist passionate about helping young children and adults find healing and growth. My journey in social work has taken me through diverse and impactful experiences. With a background that includes domestic violence, sexual assault advocacy, and the child welfare system, I bring a deep understanding of the complex issues individuals and families may face. My commitment to helping others thrive and find healing drives my private practice in Ames.
Are you seeking compassionate therapy for yourself or your child? Look no further! I'm a Registered Play Therapist passionate about helping young children and adults find healing and growth. My journey in social work has taken me through diverse and impactful experiences. With a background that includes domestic violence, sexual assault advocacy, and the child welfare system, I bring a deep understanding of the complex issues individuals and families may face. My commitment to helping others thrive and find healing drives my private practice in Ames.
![Photo of Mindy Rushford, LCPC, LMHC, ATR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ff7fc3e-e02e-479a-86ca-3b756a8f9814/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can feel really overwhelming sometimes. Whether you are struggling with major life changes, struggling with your career, anxiety, a chronic health issue (such as Endometriosis), Infertility (personal and immense professional experience), or just general anxiety, sometimes you just need a neutral person to talk to. Our family and friends can mean well and can offer great support, but there are some periods in our lives where we need help building coping skills and strategies to become mangers of our thoughts, not reactors.
Life can feel really overwhelming sometimes. Whether you are struggling with major life changes, struggling with your career, anxiety, a chronic health issue (such as Endometriosis), Infertility (personal and immense professional experience), or just general anxiety, sometimes you just need a neutral person to talk to. Our family and friends can mean well and can offer great support, but there are some periods in our lives where we need help building coping skills and strategies to become mangers of our thoughts, not reactors.
![Photo of Kylie Russell, LISW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f92f36e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kylie Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
![Photo of Alexandria Harmening - Vine Christian Counseling Services, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3338cf2-f078-43e9-8459-9448680e5dee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vine Christian Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
![Photo of Mary Nii Munteh, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/486b98ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that childhood interactions play a huge part in the development of psychological pain, wounds, and hurts. I am sensitive to the process of therapy and work hard to make it a safe and trusting space for you and myself to work together. The here and now interactions in the room are important and I intentionally use them to foster the healing process. Your strengths and goals are important to the way I work because my aim is to free up the energy that has been suppressed by pain so that you can focus on the things that are important to you.
I believe that childhood interactions play a huge part in the development of psychological pain, wounds, and hurts. I am sensitive to the process of therapy and work hard to make it a safe and trusting space for you and myself to work together. The here and now interactions in the room are important and I intentionally use them to foster the healing process. Your strengths and goals are important to the way I work because my aim is to free up the energy that has been suppressed by pain so that you can focus on the things that are important to you.
![Photo of Martha Norton, MS, LMHC, IAADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e09f89e5-274d-4ace-891d-14cc23a9215c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients through a lens of compassion and acceptance. Using EMDR and Sensorimotor psychotherapy, I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experiences and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to work with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiential puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
I work with clients through a lens of compassion and acceptance. Using EMDR and Sensorimotor psychotherapy, I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experiences and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to work with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiential puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
![Photo of Kyle M Crist, MA, BA, tCADC, LSC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0e9fd0d-9798-4eea-bfb4-8037f04512f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal substance abuse client is someone who acknowledges their addiction, seeks recovery, and desires positive change. Their issues include addiction struggles, broken relationships, and physical/mental health concerns. They need professional support, a safe space for healing, and coping strategies. Their goals are sobriety, renewed relationships, and overall well-being. They want to regain control of their life, mend bonds, and lead a healthier, happier future for themselves and their loved ones.
My ideal substance abuse client is someone who acknowledges their addiction, seeks recovery, and desires positive change. Their issues include addiction struggles, broken relationships, and physical/mental health concerns. They need professional support, a safe space for healing, and coping strategies. Their goals are sobriety, renewed relationships, and overall well-being. They want to regain control of their life, mend bonds, and lead a healthier, happier future for themselves and their loved ones.
![Photo of Brittnay Miller, t-LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f205e82d-891a-497b-b8f6-d118bb972db5/2/320x400.jpeg)
What do you want? Transformation of course! We go to therapy to ease the pain, stop the suffering, end the struggle. We want to arrive to a destination in our mind of wholeness, excitement and happiness. But, it won’t be you skipping and laughing down the hallway to get there. Therapy can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Accessing and processing DEEP stuff requires effort and lots of deep breaths. BUT, the emotional release, the sense of feeling lighter, seen and less alone is a life worth living for, no, fighting for! You deserve rest and relief.
What do you want? Transformation of course! We go to therapy to ease the pain, stop the suffering, end the struggle. We want to arrive to a destination in our mind of wholeness, excitement and happiness. But, it won’t be you skipping and laughing down the hallway to get there. Therapy can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Accessing and processing DEEP stuff requires effort and lots of deep breaths. BUT, the emotional release, the sense of feeling lighter, seen and less alone is a life worth living for, no, fighting for! You deserve rest and relief.
See more therapy options for Ames
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Ames, IA
100+
Average cost per session
$158
Therapists in Ames, IA who prioritize treating:
88% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Stress |
71% | Self Esteem |
69% | Relationship Issues |
60% | Grief |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
71% | Wellmark BCBS |
47% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Ames, IA see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
19% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Ames?
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
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.
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.
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.