Therapists in Springfield, IL

Photo of Jordan Grimm, MA,  LPC, NCC, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Grimm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. I specialize in clients struggling with grief and loss. As a clinician I recognize that as we move through life many if not most experiences include loss, physical or otherwise. I also work with clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or birth trauma. I provide a safe space for clients to process experiences and emotions and navigate a path forward to healing. As a member of the Still Waters Counseling team I look forward to empowering my clients so they can live their lives to the fullest and heal from past trauma.
Accepting new clients. I specialize in clients struggling with grief and loss. As a clinician I recognize that as we move through life many if not most experiences include loss, physical or otherwise. I also work with clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or birth trauma. I provide a safe space for clients to process experiences and emotions and navigate a path forward to healing. As a member of the Still Waters Counseling team I look forward to empowering my clients so they can live their lives to the fullest and heal from past trauma.
(217) 269-1394 View (217) 269-1394
Photo of Vicki Vandeveer - Personal Counseling Services - Vicki Vandeveer, MA, MA, LMFT, LCPC, CADC, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Personal Counseling Services - Vicki Vandeveer, MA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCPC, CADC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
(217) 216-8284 View (217) 216-8284
Photo of Julia Schwartz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Hi, I am Julia. I have a passion for working with young adults and women who strive to enhance personal insight and use their strengths and values to become more confident and self aware. Are you ready to begin the journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing? I have experience working with anxiety and stress relief, trauma, self-worth/body image, high-achievers, people pleasing, grief and relational stress. I hope to provide an environment for you to heal emotionally, gain personal insight, and harness skills to be your best self within everyday life-at your own pace.
Hi, I am Julia. I have a passion for working with young adults and women who strive to enhance personal insight and use their strengths and values to become more confident and self aware. Are you ready to begin the journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing? I have experience working with anxiety and stress relief, trauma, self-worth/body image, high-achievers, people pleasing, grief and relational stress. I hope to provide an environment for you to heal emotionally, gain personal insight, and harness skills to be your best self within everyday life-at your own pace.
(217) 595-6080 View (217) 595-6080
Photo of Denise Beeching, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Beeching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Denise received her master's degree from Mid-America Christian University in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has 5 years of experience as a counselor primarily working with couples and families but has also worked with kids in the foster care system. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Illinois. She has completed training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy. She has also completed Gottman's course on Treating Affairs and Trauma.
Denise received her master's degree from Mid-America Christian University in Marriage and Family Therapy. She has 5 years of experience as a counselor primarily working with couples and families but has also worked with kids in the foster care system. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Illinois. She has completed training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy. She has also completed Gottman's course on Treating Affairs and Trauma.
(217) 387-9889 View (217) 387-9889
Photo of Shanna Shrum, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shanna Shrum
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Hello! I’m Shanna and I am accepting new clients. I am drawn to working with people who have experienced systemic, interpersonal, financial, and work-related trauma, women, couples, LGBTQ+ folks and anyone who wishes to heal their heart amidst the challenges of the world. I strive to co-create a safe container with clients, so they feel open to explore and embrace all the parts of themselves, both light and dark. My style can best be described as playful, embodied, mindful, compassionate, and creative with a side of humor!
Hello! I’m Shanna and I am accepting new clients. I am drawn to working with people who have experienced systemic, interpersonal, financial, and work-related trauma, women, couples, LGBTQ+ folks and anyone who wishes to heal their heart amidst the challenges of the world. I strive to co-create a safe container with clients, so they feel open to explore and embrace all the parts of themselves, both light and dark. My style can best be described as playful, embodied, mindful, compassionate, and creative with a side of humor!
(217) 773-5975 View (217) 773-5975
Photo of Kristal Perry- Gutierrez, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kristal Perry- Gutierrez
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
(217) 814-0113 View (217) 814-0113
Photo of Chelsie Miller, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Chelsie Miller
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
She believes in establishing a compassion focused, secure, trusting, respectful space with individuals to guide them in exploring, gaining tools, strategies, and motivation for reaching goals and living a more fulfilling life. She hopes to continue helping others see their value and strengths in a non-judgmental environment. Her clinical experience in education has primarily been focused on working with children, adolescents and their families from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Chelsie also works with adults with emphasis on health and overall wellness in one's life in group practice. www.behaviorahealth.center
She believes in establishing a compassion focused, secure, trusting, respectful space with individuals to guide them in exploring, gaining tools, strategies, and motivation for reaching goals and living a more fulfilling life. She hopes to continue helping others see their value and strengths in a non-judgmental environment. Her clinical experience in education has primarily been focused on working with children, adolescents and their families from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Chelsie also works with adults with emphasis on health and overall wellness in one's life in group practice. www.behaviorahealth.center
(217) 216-8354 View (217) 216-8354
Photo of Taryn Heart - Relationship Consultants, MA
Relationship Consultants
MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62702  (Online Only)
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
(217) 776-9523 View (217) 776-9523
Photo of Victoria (Vicki) Kamhi, MA, LCPC, CADC
Victoria (Vicki) Kamhi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Hi I'm Vicki Kamhi, owner of Find Your Path Therapy. Do you ever feel lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to go anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. We all face some pretty tough challenges at times and sometimes we just don't know how to deal with them. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it. I can help. We can work together to sort out what is important to you, explore issues that are keeping you stuck, and build on your current strengths (you have more than you think!) by adding new strategies tailored for you.
Hi I'm Vicki Kamhi, owner of Find Your Path Therapy. Do you ever feel lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to go anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. We all face some pretty tough challenges at times and sometimes we just don't know how to deal with them. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it. I can help. We can work together to sort out what is important to you, explore issues that are keeping you stuck, and build on your current strengths (you have more than you think!) by adding new strategies tailored for you.
(309) 232-8670 View (309) 232-8670
Photo of Kelly Crooks, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Crooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Kelly. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois. I received my MSW in Social Work from SIU Edwardsville in 2013 and got my LCSW in 2017. I have worked with children in all different settings since 2014. The LGBTQ community has been a part of my practice, especially when working in the most rural of areas. I have helped children and adults with different diagnoses over the course of my career and continue growing in my knowledge of how to serve each individual.
Hello! I'm Kelly. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois. I received my MSW in Social Work from SIU Edwardsville in 2013 and got my LCSW in 2017. I have worked with children in all different settings since 2014. The LGBTQ community has been a part of my practice, especially when working in the most rural of areas. I have helped children and adults with different diagnoses over the course of my career and continue growing in my knowledge of how to serve each individual.
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Photo of Angela Neale - Inner Peace Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Peace Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10 years of experience committed to helping individuals learn how to process past traumas, overcome fears, and work through everyday struggles to become more resilient, confident, and grounded in their authentic selves. I incorporate a variety of techniques and approaches in my work including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered and solution-focused therapies, strength-based therapy, mindfulness, breathwork, and yoga.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10 years of experience committed to helping individuals learn how to process past traumas, overcome fears, and work through everyday struggles to become more resilient, confident, and grounded in their authentic selves. I incorporate a variety of techniques and approaches in my work including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered and solution-focused therapies, strength-based therapy, mindfulness, breathwork, and yoga.
(217) 335-4997 View (217) 335-4997
Photo of Linda Lanier, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Lanier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701
If you are stressed or depressed or working through a difficult time, it can be so helpful to have a safe, compassionate person to bounce things off of. I don't have all of the answers, but, after nearly 3 decades of experience, I have some of them. Using data-based techniques, I can help you correct unhelpful patterns and unlock answers within yourself. I love helping people live their best life.
If you are stressed or depressed or working through a difficult time, it can be so helpful to have a safe, compassionate person to bounce things off of. I don't have all of the answers, but, after nearly 3 decades of experience, I have some of them. Using data-based techniques, I can help you correct unhelpful patterns and unlock answers within yourself. I love helping people live their best life.
(217) 993-9006 View (217) 993-9006
Photo of Danielle Sakach, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Danielle Sakach
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Danielle Sakach, MA, LCPC, NCC, strongly believes her clients are not defined by their mental health symptoms and that anyone is capable of finding the personal power to meet their goals. She serves adolescents and adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, LGBTQI+ issues, personality disorders, autism, and more.
Danielle Sakach, MA, LCPC, NCC, strongly believes her clients are not defined by their mental health symptoms and that anyone is capable of finding the personal power to meet their goals. She serves adolescents and adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, LGBTQI+ issues, personality disorders, autism, and more.
(217) 262-1760 View (217) 262-1760
Photo of Stephani Cave, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Stephani Cave
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701
My ideal client values self-motivation, hard work, self-understanding, and self-discovery. My ideal client understands that therapy is a commitment. My ideal client appreciates time and uses therapy time wisely. My ideal client agrees to follow through on assignments between sessions, pay promptly, and keep appointments. I help clients facing infertility and other reproductive issues. I also treat the associated issues of marriage and relationship, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, assertiveness, decision-making, and stress management.
My ideal client values self-motivation, hard work, self-understanding, and self-discovery. My ideal client understands that therapy is a commitment. My ideal client appreciates time and uses therapy time wisely. My ideal client agrees to follow through on assignments between sessions, pay promptly, and keep appointments. I help clients facing infertility and other reproductive issues. I also treat the associated issues of marriage and relationship, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, assertiveness, decision-making, and stress management.
(217) 566-4023 View (217) 566-4023
Vickie L Huffman Pruitt
Counselor, LCPC, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I provide a variety of personalized mental health services to individuals, couples. and families to improve their quality of life. Our quality of life can be interrupted in many ways. Loss of a loved one, relationship problems, parenting struggles, addictions, anxiety, depression, and job stress. Sometimes these can be just little bumps in the road, sometimes they can be overwhelming, or maybe your finding your unresolved past is interfering with your life today. I will meet you where you are, and offer guidance and insight to assist you to get to where you want to be, with the goal, improving your quality of life.
Hello, I provide a variety of personalized mental health services to individuals, couples. and families to improve their quality of life. Our quality of life can be interrupted in many ways. Loss of a loved one, relationship problems, parenting struggles, addictions, anxiety, depression, and job stress. Sometimes these can be just little bumps in the road, sometimes they can be overwhelming, or maybe your finding your unresolved past is interfering with your life today. I will meet you where you are, and offer guidance and insight to assist you to get to where you want to be, with the goal, improving your quality of life.
(217) 216-1967 View (217) 216-1967
Photo of James E Myers, PsyD, Psychologist
James E Myers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I work with people who often have an issue or problem which prevents them from fully functioning in life, which affects their ability to be happy. This might be a relationship issue, a personality problem which has bothered them from childhood, or a bio-psycho-social issue like depression or anxiety. I seek to help people by developing a relationship in which we can work in a therapeutic modality that is appropriate for them.
I work with people who often have an issue or problem which prevents them from fully functioning in life, which affects their ability to be happy. This might be a relationship issue, a personality problem which has bothered them from childhood, or a bio-psycho-social issue like depression or anxiety. I seek to help people by developing a relationship in which we can work in a therapeutic modality that is appropriate for them.
(217) 290-2562 View (217) 290-2562
Photo of Dr. Matthew Evan Sprong - Empathic Empowerment Counseling, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC, Counselor
Empathic Empowerment Counseling
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701
We all experience happiness, sadness, and several other emotions every day. Sometimes, you need someone in your corner to challenge you, validate you, or comfort you while discussing your struggles. While I cannot promise that counseling will resolve all your problems, I will join you on your journey to reduce these challenges so you can live a fulfilling life!
We all experience happiness, sadness, and several other emotions every day. Sometimes, you need someone in your corner to challenge you, validate you, or comfort you while discussing your struggles. While I cannot promise that counseling will resolve all your problems, I will join you on your journey to reduce these challenges so you can live a fulfilling life!
(217) 393-8942 View (217) 393-8942
Photo of Arvinder Dhillon - Rubix Health, MD, PMHNP, FNP-C
Rubix Health
MD, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Rubix Health, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness. Whether you're dealing with trauma, or grief, or just need someone to talk to, our dedicated counselors and therapists will meet you where you are. And thanks to telemedicine, you can get the care you deserve without ever leaving your home.
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Rubix Health, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness. Whether you're dealing with trauma, or grief, or just need someone to talk to, our dedicated counselors and therapists will meet you where you are. And thanks to telemedicine, you can get the care you deserve without ever leaving your home.
(217) 866-1727 View (217) 866-1727
Photo of Amy Smith-Harris - Amy Smith-Harris, LCPC, ATR, LLC, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Amy Smith-Harris, LCPC, ATR, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
I will provide you a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns and challenges. Together, we will find solutions and develop your coping skills that will allow you make positive changes in your life. I am a Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been in the mental health field since 1997. I work with clients ages 7 through adult. I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and art therapy. I also specialize in working with grief and loss issues. I look forward to working together!
I will provide you a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns and challenges. Together, we will find solutions and develop your coping skills that will allow you make positive changes in your life. I am a Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been in the mental health field since 1997. I work with clients ages 7 through adult. I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and art therapy. I also specialize in working with grief and loss issues. I look forward to working together!
(217) 215-5001 View (217) 215-5001
Photo of Benjamin A Rasche, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Benjamin A Rasche
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Anger, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can be very challenging. When we blow-up, it’s usually on the people we care the most about. When our relationships aren’t good, it can impact nearly everything we do. When anxiety or depression becomes too much, you can feel as though you are lost or constantly overwhelmed. I specialize in helping people who are overcome by anger, struggling with their relationships, drowning in depression, and/or frozen by anxiety. People who reach out to me for support realize they're not living the life they want. They know they’re capable of more and want to fix their situation.
Anger, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can be very challenging. When we blow-up, it’s usually on the people we care the most about. When our relationships aren’t good, it can impact nearly everything we do. When anxiety or depression becomes too much, you can feel as though you are lost or constantly overwhelmed. I specialize in helping people who are overcome by anger, struggling with their relationships, drowning in depression, and/or frozen by anxiety. People who reach out to me for support realize they're not living the life they want. They know they’re capable of more and want to fix their situation.
(217) 718-5787 View (217) 718-5787
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Springfield, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Springfield, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Relationship Issues
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Springfield, IL see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
17% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Springfield?

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.