Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

Photo of Jovanna Pia Casey, MSW, LMHC, Counselor
Jovanna Pia Casey
Counselor, MSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
—> Not taking new clients <—Let’s clear blocks to living the life you want. Speaking up, claiming your right to happiness, stepping ahead with joy and confidence. Sometimes old patterns, beliefs or traumas get in the way. I use a blend of shamanic and other spiritual methods along with science-based neurological trauma clearing techniques. Sometimes the origins of your blocks are from childhood, past lives or even ancestral patterns. Clear core beliefs like "I am not enough" or "I don't deserve". And build new patterns (and neuro-networks) of success, self love and confidence. See: Facebook Jovanna Casey MSW LMHC for reviews.
—> Not taking new clients <—Let’s clear blocks to living the life you want. Speaking up, claiming your right to happiness, stepping ahead with joy and confidence. Sometimes old patterns, beliefs or traumas get in the way. I use a blend of shamanic and other spiritual methods along with science-based neurological trauma clearing techniques. Sometimes the origins of your blocks are from childhood, past lives or even ancestral patterns. Clear core beliefs like "I am not enough" or "I don't deserve". And build new patterns (and neuro-networks) of success, self love and confidence. See: Facebook Jovanna Casey MSW LMHC for reviews.
(833) 624-0401 View (833) 624-0401
Photo of Andrea Knutson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Knutson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
(360) 585-4790 View (360) 585-4790
Photo of Sara Smithson, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Smithson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
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Photo of Patricia Bolen, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Patricia Bolen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
I specialize in guiding individuals through trauma, transition, and transformation. My mission is to help people empower themselves and promote their well-being by providing a nurturing and safe environment for strength-based, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and compassionate counseling. Together, we will draw from a range of techniques and collaborate to find the best approach for you. This may include traditional talk therapy, as well as other forms of therapy such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and mindfulness practice.
I specialize in guiding individuals through trauma, transition, and transformation. My mission is to help people empower themselves and promote their well-being by providing a nurturing and safe environment for strength-based, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and compassionate counseling. Together, we will draw from a range of techniques and collaborate to find the best approach for you. This may include traditional talk therapy, as well as other forms of therapy such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and mindfulness practice.
(360) 301-7242 View (360) 301-7242
Photo of Ann Emineth - Ann Emineth Counseling, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Ann Emineth Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Relationships are important for our well-being. Relationships can also be very difficult at times. Some relationships are more difficult than others. Whether you are having difficulties with a spouse, partner, boss, or friends, I can help you learn to have better relationships with others. We will work together in finding ways to navigate difficult people and how to leave interactions feeling good. I want to help those that are currently or survived emotional abuse in finding recovery and provide a start to having healthy relationships.
Relationships are important for our well-being. Relationships can also be very difficult at times. Some relationships are more difficult than others. Whether you are having difficulties with a spouse, partner, boss, or friends, I can help you learn to have better relationships with others. We will work together in finding ways to navigate difficult people and how to leave interactions feeling good. I want to help those that are currently or survived emotional abuse in finding recovery and provide a start to having healthy relationships.
(360) 489-6923 View (360) 489-6923
Photo of Jo Hadlock-King, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Hadlock-King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
For 30+ years I have worked with adults seeking relief from depression, anxiety, relationship strains, loss, addiction. For all my clients, healing is integral: we attend to troubling emotions, patterns of thinking, body sensations and spirit. My study of biodynamic craniosacral therapy, a gentle touch therapy, confirmed for me that within each of us there is inherent health. We learn to listen and align with this health, building on already existing resources, creating a new trusting connection and discovering new skills.
For 30+ years I have worked with adults seeking relief from depression, anxiety, relationship strains, loss, addiction. For all my clients, healing is integral: we attend to troubling emotions, patterns of thinking, body sensations and spirit. My study of biodynamic craniosacral therapy, a gentle touch therapy, confirmed for me that within each of us there is inherent health. We learn to listen and align with this health, building on already existing resources, creating a new trusting connection and discovering new skills.
(425) 610-8936 View (425) 610-8936
Photo of Kaarin A Hanzlian, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kaarin A Hanzlian
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Becoming aware of our beliefs and behaviors can support our overall mental and physical wellbeing. We all face transitions at various life stages. I also recognize the quality care and support that is beckoning within the aging community, which includes aging with unconditional acceptance, support and guidance for aging families and promoting self-care for caregivers.
Becoming aware of our beliefs and behaviors can support our overall mental and physical wellbeing. We all face transitions at various life stages. I also recognize the quality care and support that is beckoning within the aging community, which includes aging with unconditional acceptance, support and guidance for aging families and promoting self-care for caregivers.
(206) 208-1459 View (206) 208-1459
Photo of Nico Kladis, MA, LMHCA
Nico Kladis
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I offer empathic presence and a wholistic approach to mental health and wellness. I have worked extensively in the field of wilderness therapy, community and clinical mental health settings. I specialize in work with depression, anxiety, trauma and grief. I support and empower clients using experiential and somatic approaches alongside traditional talk therapy. I think it’s relevant to discuss the past as it shows up in the present. I draw from a relational and attachment based perspective that integrates brain science, mindfulness and parts work to help unlock sometimes unconscious patterns.
I offer empathic presence and a wholistic approach to mental health and wellness. I have worked extensively in the field of wilderness therapy, community and clinical mental health settings. I specialize in work with depression, anxiety, trauma and grief. I support and empower clients using experiential and somatic approaches alongside traditional talk therapy. I think it’s relevant to discuss the past as it shows up in the present. I draw from a relational and attachment based perspective that integrates brain science, mindfulness and parts work to help unlock sometimes unconscious patterns.
(360) 502-9449 View (360) 502-9449
Photo of Laila Josephine Ayyoub, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laila Josephine Ayyoub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
(458) 207-2062 View (458) 207-2062
Photo of Sadie Bingham, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sadie Bingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Is anxiety, overwhelm & past trauma making you feel like the walls are caving in? You’ve done everything “right” in life, only to realize that hasn’t made life any easier. Maybe you are one of those high achievers who succeeds at everything or a people-pleaser terrified of confrontation. Either way – you feel out of control & ashamed because - why can’t you figure this mental health stuff out? On top of all this, you are at a time of great transition, change & growth. Learning to be an adult in a scary & unpredictable world can feel very lonely & crushing. Especially a world that can feel like it’s going off the rails.
Is anxiety, overwhelm & past trauma making you feel like the walls are caving in? You’ve done everything “right” in life, only to realize that hasn’t made life any easier. Maybe you are one of those high achievers who succeeds at everything or a people-pleaser terrified of confrontation. Either way – you feel out of control & ashamed because - why can’t you figure this mental health stuff out? On top of all this, you are at a time of great transition, change & growth. Learning to be an adult in a scary & unpredictable world can feel very lonely & crushing. Especially a world that can feel like it’s going off the rails.
(253) 649-2790 View (253) 649-2790
Photo of Ali Fulton, MA, LMHC, MHP, RYT
Ali Fulton
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, RYT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
I believe that each person has within them a source for healing that once the body and mind can connect, can be found. Using an integrative approach with multiple theories of psychotherapy, wilderness and grounding, creates a relationship with one’s own body, opening the opportunity for acceptance in the present moment without judgment. Holding a warm, open and kind space to meet ourselves and accept where we are on our path is a goal for my clients and myself.
I believe that each person has within them a source for healing that once the body and mind can connect, can be found. Using an integrative approach with multiple theories of psychotherapy, wilderness and grounding, creates a relationship with one’s own body, opening the opportunity for acceptance in the present moment without judgment. Holding a warm, open and kind space to meet ourselves and accept where we are on our path is a goal for my clients and myself.
(360) 217-0679 View (360) 217-0679
Photo of David P Eekhoff, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
David P Eekhoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
I bring over 20 years of experience to the Presbyterian Counseling Center. I offer a unique opportunity for people who come to me for counseling to become aware of issues about their relationships with others, and also develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of their world and their place in it...a spiritual search. When spirituality and hope meet, many say they experience a transformative change. No matter where you are in your journey, I offer you an experience in which you will be encouraged to take small steps that can make a huge difference. I welcome you to this journey...
I bring over 20 years of experience to the Presbyterian Counseling Center. I offer a unique opportunity for people who come to me for counseling to become aware of issues about their relationships with others, and also develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of their world and their place in it...a spiritual search. When spirituality and hope meet, many say they experience a transformative change. No matter where you are in your journey, I offer you an experience in which you will be encouraged to take small steps that can make a huge difference. I welcome you to this journey...
(360) 328-7354 View (360) 328-7354
Photo of Kelley Swanstrom, MAC, LMHC, Counselor
Kelley Swanstrom
Counselor, MAC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Life since the pandemic has become increasingly stressful and complicated, impacting well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Anxiety, stress, and trauma can make everything feel overwhelming. I work with you to slow down and truly notice what’s happening within yourself. Together, we create a safe, compassionate space where you are seen and understood. By addressing past issues, we work towards healing and improving your life. My goal is to help you feel more empowered, hopeful and to connect more deeply with your authentic self.
Life since the pandemic has become increasingly stressful and complicated, impacting well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Anxiety, stress, and trauma can make everything feel overwhelming. I work with you to slow down and truly notice what’s happening within yourself. Together, we create a safe, compassionate space where you are seen and understood. By addressing past issues, we work towards healing and improving your life. My goal is to help you feel more empowered, hopeful and to connect more deeply with your authentic self.
(360) 302-4969 View (360) 302-4969
Photo of Paula L Casey, LMFT, CMHS, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula L Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS, AT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
Paula, is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist,Art Therapist and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist. with graduate degree in Psychology and BA in Biology and Psychology. Paula has trained extensively in complex trauma, childhood neurodevelopment, attachment, developmental trauma, parent/child interactionalTherapy (PCIT), and generational trauma. As a Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, she helps identify and support the development of healing intentions and ongoing integration of insights gained through the sacred journey.
Paula, is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist,Art Therapist and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist. with graduate degree in Psychology and BA in Biology and Psychology. Paula has trained extensively in complex trauma, childhood neurodevelopment, attachment, developmental trauma, parent/child interactionalTherapy (PCIT), and generational trauma. As a Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, she helps identify and support the development of healing intentions and ongoing integration of insights gained through the sacred journey.
(360) 361-8596 View (360) 361-8596
Photo of Toni Wilhelm, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Toni Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am experienced in and enjoy working with individual, couples, families and children. Despite the sense of overwhelm, I believe that feeling stuck, anxious and unhappy is often an opportunity for growth and change. Relationship issues, anxiety, depression, illness, aging and family problems are all part of life, and I feel fortunate in being able to help people through these issues.
I am experienced in and enjoy working with individual, couples, families and children. Despite the sense of overwhelm, I believe that feeling stuck, anxious and unhappy is often an opportunity for growth and change. Relationship issues, anxiety, depression, illness, aging and family problems are all part of life, and I feel fortunate in being able to help people through these issues.
(360) 328-7181 View (360) 328-7181
Photo of Christine Nock, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christine Nock
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
You can recover your authentic self! My compassionate and accepting approach uses a variety of simple and effective techniques to help clients understand themselves, make clear and conscious choices, learn to listen to their own inner wisdom, set healthy boundaries, fulfill their own deepest needs, and become their most authentic selves.
You can recover your authentic self! My compassionate and accepting approach uses a variety of simple and effective techniques to help clients understand themselves, make clear and conscious choices, learn to listen to their own inner wisdom, set healthy boundaries, fulfill their own deepest needs, and become their most authentic selves.
(360) 821-1407 View (360) 821-1407
Photo of Mark Saran, LMHC, Counselor
Mark Saran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
(360) 382-4287 View (360) 382-4287
Photo of Esther Fredholm Conway, PhD, Psychologist
Esther Fredholm Conway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
(360) 301-4564 View (360) 301-4564
Photo of Elisabeth Heiner, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Elisabeth Heiner
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Hello! Thank you for taking time to take care of yourself through therapy. I provide treatment for adults, adolescents, children, and couples. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, and adjustment disorders, as well as behavioral issues and trauma in children.
Hello! Thank you for taking time to take care of yourself through therapy. I provide treatment for adults, adolescents, children, and couples. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, and adjustment disorders, as well as behavioral issues and trauma in children.
(360) 226-7127 View (360) 226-7127
Photo of Sheena Uritz, LMHCA , Counselor
Sheena Uritz
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
(360) 641-7469 View (360) 641-7469
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Port Townsend, WA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Self Esteem
74% Grief
63% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
74% Premera
71% Regence

How Therapists in Port Townsend, WA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
21% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Port Townsend?

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.