Therapists in Annapolis, MD

Photo of Taelon Um, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Taelon Um
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My ideal client may need help with confidence, relationships, or learning who they are. They aim to reduce symptoms of clinical diagnoses and work with me to see progress in their lives. This client would want to learn more about themselves and improve their relationships with others and with themselves. They would be a motivated and insightful client who attends sessions regularly and comes prepared with topics to discuss. I would help this client by listening to them and their thoughts, offering support, and building a rapport with them.
My ideal client may need help with confidence, relationships, or learning who they are. They aim to reduce symptoms of clinical diagnoses and work with me to see progress in their lives. This client would want to learn more about themselves and improve their relationships with others and with themselves. They would be a motivated and insightful client who attends sessions regularly and comes prepared with topics to discuss. I would help this client by listening to them and their thoughts, offering support, and building a rapport with them.
(667) 220-6479 View (667) 220-6479
Photo of Answered Prayers Therapeutic Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Answered Prayers Therapeutic Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PMHNP, LMFT, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Feeling stressed? Got the blues? Having a lover's quarrel? Are the children misbehaving? We can help! We utilize Brief, Solution- Focused therapy, as well as other modalities, to help you overcome whatever obstacle you are currently facing.
Feeling stressed? Got the blues? Having a lover's quarrel? Are the children misbehaving? We can help! We utilize Brief, Solution- Focused therapy, as well as other modalities, to help you overcome whatever obstacle you are currently facing.
(410) 604-8394 View (410) 604-8394
Photo of Jason Hovey, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Jason Hovey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
"Fear lives in the head. And courage lives in the heart. The job is to get from one to the other" - Louis Penny. It is inevitable that we will be wounded during the journey of life. Many of those wounds generally heal on their own. However some wounds cut deeper. They are unable to heal themselves and leave scars causing broken relationships, anxiety, addiction, insecurity, fear, and pain. Facing these wounds can be frightening and overwhelming, especially when facing them alone. Together we find the courage and strength to face and heal these wounds.
"Fear lives in the head. And courage lives in the heart. The job is to get from one to the other" - Louis Penny. It is inevitable that we will be wounded during the journey of life. Many of those wounds generally heal on their own. However some wounds cut deeper. They are unable to heal themselves and leave scars causing broken relationships, anxiety, addiction, insecurity, fear, and pain. Facing these wounds can be frightening and overwhelming, especially when facing them alone. Together we find the courage and strength to face and heal these wounds.
(410) 734-2187 View (410) 734-2187
Photo of Gabrielle Stockton, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Gabrielle Stockton
Counselor, MSc, LGCP, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I feel privileged to walk beside clients as they deal with struggles such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, OCD, relationship challenges, grief and loss, spirituality, and more. Working with my clients has taught me that recovery involves recognizing and utilizing one's strengths to make healthy changes and decisions in their lives. This is why I see my role as a counselor is to support and empower my clients as they identify and work towards their recovery goals.
I feel privileged to walk beside clients as they deal with struggles such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, OCD, relationship challenges, grief and loss, spirituality, and more. Working with my clients has taught me that recovery involves recognizing and utilizing one's strengths to make healthy changes and decisions in their lives. This is why I see my role as a counselor is to support and empower my clients as they identify and work towards their recovery goals.
(410) 294-9300 x5 View (410) 294-9300 x5
Photo of Kayla Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Kayla Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one burdened by the weight of overwhelming emotions, struggling to find balance in life, or haunted by intrusive thoughts that cloud your days? The journey through reproductive trauma and maternal mental health struggles can be profoundly isolating and emotionally draining. Meanwhile, family trauma can leave lasting scars, impacting your relationships and emotional well-being in ways that feel insurmountable. You don't have to carry these burdens alone. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand, to provide support and understanding, and to help you rediscover the equilibrium, resilience, and hope that you deserve.
Are you or a loved one burdened by the weight of overwhelming emotions, struggling to find balance in life, or haunted by intrusive thoughts that cloud your days? The journey through reproductive trauma and maternal mental health struggles can be profoundly isolating and emotionally draining. Meanwhile, family trauma can leave lasting scars, impacting your relationships and emotional well-being in ways that feel insurmountable. You don't have to carry these burdens alone. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand, to provide support and understanding, and to help you rediscover the equilibrium, resilience, and hope that you deserve.
(301) 450-5837 View (301) 450-5837
Photo of Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy
Counselor, LPC, CST, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
(757) 568-7277 View (757) 568-7277
Photo of Lisa Rabinowitz, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Lisa Rabinowitz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Discover how to rekindle your loving relationship and eliminate criticism, defensiveness and dismissiveness. You can stop feeling alone, abandoned or ignored. Learn how to stop having the same arguments over and over again. In the beginning of your relationship, you may have felt connected and happy, and now, you might wonder, "What happened?" and "How can we reignite that spark and love again?". Learn how to feel loved, cared about, validated and heard. Start having fun and feeling connected with your partner again. Whether you are single, married or divorced learn how to have the love and happiness you want Today!
Discover how to rekindle your loving relationship and eliminate criticism, defensiveness and dismissiveness. You can stop feeling alone, abandoned or ignored. Learn how to stop having the same arguments over and over again. In the beginning of your relationship, you may have felt connected and happy, and now, you might wonder, "What happened?" and "How can we reignite that spark and love again?". Learn how to feel loved, cared about, validated and heard. Start having fun and feeling connected with your partner again. Whether you are single, married or divorced learn how to have the love and happiness you want Today!
(410) 415-1717 View (410) 415-1717
Photo of TJ Matton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
TJ Matton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Do you react to experiences in a way that doesn’t make sense? You feel a lot, or nothing at all? Mostly, you want to feel differently. I use creativity and curiosity to help you shift into a state of healing and change. My hope is to help you make sense of your experiences, strengthen your resiliency, and engage your innate capacity to heal and thrive. I work well with individuals who are open to including art, movement, brainspotting, and other expressive modalities.
Do you react to experiences in a way that doesn’t make sense? You feel a lot, or nothing at all? Mostly, you want to feel differently. I use creativity and curiosity to help you shift into a state of healing and change. My hope is to help you make sense of your experiences, strengthen your resiliency, and engage your innate capacity to heal and thrive. I work well with individuals who are open to including art, movement, brainspotting, and other expressive modalities.
(443) 776-2157 View (443) 776-2157
Photo of John Persampiere, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
John Persampiere
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and founder of the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a wide range of mental health and family relationship concerns. Problems I treat include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, tics, Tourette's, adjustment problems, noncompliance, anger/aggression, trauma, disruptive behavior, and family and couple relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative and I view all of my clients as equal partners in the treatment process.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and founder of the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a wide range of mental health and family relationship concerns. Problems I treat include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, tics, Tourette's, adjustment problems, noncompliance, anger/aggression, trauma, disruptive behavior, and family and couple relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative and I view all of my clients as equal partners in the treatment process.
(443) 775-2046 View (443) 775-2046
Photo of Ruth Milsten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Ruth Milsten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Hi there! Thank you for stopping by my site. I’m at: www.young adultcounselingandretreats.com. I offer counseling and retreats for young adults, ages 18-30, coping with life transitions, anxiety, trauma, grief, identity exploration and mind/body/spirit connection. I’m committed to affirming identities for all folks and honor each client as a unique individual, who is the expert of their own journey of self-discovery, healing and growth. I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, CNM and Polyamory aware and allied. I also offer Imago couples therapy to adults of any age.
Hi there! Thank you for stopping by my site. I’m at: www.young adultcounselingandretreats.com. I offer counseling and retreats for young adults, ages 18-30, coping with life transitions, anxiety, trauma, grief, identity exploration and mind/body/spirit connection. I’m committed to affirming identities for all folks and honor each client as a unique individual, who is the expert of their own journey of self-discovery, healing and growth. I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, CNM and Polyamory aware and allied. I also offer Imago couples therapy to adults of any age.
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Photo of Jeff Percacciante, Pre-Licensed Professional in Annapolis, MD
Jeff Percacciante
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
We all carry stories in our heads that inhibit us from being our best selves. My intention, through creative, therapeutic collaboration, is to gently challenge those stories and clear away the obstacles to happiness. My clients face a variety of issues, ranging from depression, anxiety and adjustment disorders to problematic attachment patterns, unresolved trauma and fractured body image. The common thread between these obstacles is the bedrock of my practice: taking a mindful look at all parts of our being, past, present and future, quieting shame, and empowering you to see a brighter future for yourself.
We all carry stories in our heads that inhibit us from being our best selves. My intention, through creative, therapeutic collaboration, is to gently challenge those stories and clear away the obstacles to happiness. My clients face a variety of issues, ranging from depression, anxiety and adjustment disorders to problematic attachment patterns, unresolved trauma and fractured body image. The common thread between these obstacles is the bedrock of my practice: taking a mindful look at all parts of our being, past, present and future, quieting shame, and empowering you to see a brighter future for yourself.
(443) 727-1250 View (443) 727-1250
Photo of Lance David, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Lance David
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
IT STINKS IF YOU ARE READING THIS- because if life were going well, you probably would not be checking out therapists. If you are frustrated with your life, relationships or maybe even yourself, don't panic- we all get there sometimes. You might need help getting in touch with your heart, finding your voice or rediscovering longings that have gotten buried. I would love to help you reconnect with yourself, the people you love and the life you have so long desired.
IT STINKS IF YOU ARE READING THIS- because if life were going well, you probably would not be checking out therapists. If you are frustrated with your life, relationships or maybe even yourself, don't panic- we all get there sometimes. You might need help getting in touch with your heart, finding your voice or rediscovering longings that have gotten buried. I would love to help you reconnect with yourself, the people you love and the life you have so long desired.
(410) 656-4680 View (410) 656-4680
Photo of Ashley Grier, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Ashley Grier
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a positive change in your life? Welcome to a journey towards self-improvement and well-being. As a licensed therapist with expertise in depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and women’s issues, I am committed to empowering individuals at any stage of their lives. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek change and ask for help, I offer a safe, supportive, and confidential environment. My approach is client-centered, tailored to the unique needs of each individual. I employ clinically-tested and evidence-based interventions to ensure the most effective treatment.
Are you seeking a positive change in your life? Welcome to a journey towards self-improvement and well-being. As a licensed therapist with expertise in depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and women’s issues, I am committed to empowering individuals at any stage of their lives. Recognizing the courage it takes to seek change and ask for help, I offer a safe, supportive, and confidential environment. My approach is client-centered, tailored to the unique needs of each individual. I employ clinically-tested and evidence-based interventions to ensure the most effective treatment.
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Photo of Hypnotherapy By The Bay LLC in Annapolis, MD
Hypnotherapy By The Bay LLC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
On a mission to uplift and foster positive change in 1 BILLION people by Fall 2027! Are you stuck in destructive behavior, confusion, fear or frustration?  What if your best life is waiting for you, just beyond your reach? ​ Do you feel like you are taking one step forward and two steps back? ​ Are you sick of it? I can help you get to where you want to go! Experience the joy of m​y unique blend of hypnotherapy and life coaching. Reach for your best life and make it last!
On a mission to uplift and foster positive change in 1 BILLION people by Fall 2027! Are you stuck in destructive behavior, confusion, fear or frustration?  What if your best life is waiting for you, just beyond your reach? ​ Do you feel like you are taking one step forward and two steps back? ​ Are you sick of it? I can help you get to where you want to go! Experience the joy of m​y unique blend of hypnotherapy and life coaching. Reach for your best life and make it last!
(443) 516-9989 View (443) 516-9989
Photo of Kendall Patterson, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Kendall Patterson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21404  (Online Only)
I strongly believe in empowering individuals and families to make meaningful changes in their lives. I enter into partnerships with clients, jointly develop treatment plans to address their individual goals and move towards positive changes. Adapting treatment modalities to address the specific needs of my clients, I provide highly professional, caring, and personalized psychological services to promote well-being and growth.
I strongly believe in empowering individuals and families to make meaningful changes in their lives. I enter into partnerships with clients, jointly develop treatment plans to address their individual goals and move towards positive changes. Adapting treatment modalities to address the specific needs of my clients, I provide highly professional, caring, and personalized psychological services to promote well-being and growth.
(667) 213-2789 View (667) 213-2789
Photo of Caroline Fowler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Caroline Fowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
You have taken the vulnerable step to begin therapy. You likely feel disconnected from yourself or those around you. You may be re-living pieces of trauma on a daily basis. You may feel on edge, exhausted, and frustrated due to the impacts of trauma; or the opposite: disengaged, numb and lethargic. As a trauma therapist and Certified First Responder Counselor, my goal is to connect with you and earn your trust. I am trained and receive ongoing consultation in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and can currently incorporate this highly effective modality into my practice.
You have taken the vulnerable step to begin therapy. You likely feel disconnected from yourself or those around you. You may be re-living pieces of trauma on a daily basis. You may feel on edge, exhausted, and frustrated due to the impacts of trauma; or the opposite: disengaged, numb and lethargic. As a trauma therapist and Certified First Responder Counselor, my goal is to connect with you and earn your trust. I am trained and receive ongoing consultation in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and can currently incorporate this highly effective modality into my practice.
(443) 203-8086 View (443) 203-8086
Photo of Dara Alewine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Dara Alewine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
In today's culture, we are often so focused on dealing with the many stressors of everyday life and on taking care of others, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious and depleted. Making an appointment for therapy is the first step towards taking care of yourself and feeling better. In my experience, lasting change can begin to take place as you share with a therapist who will listen compassionately, join with you to understand your experience, and guide you to find and use the tools to make postive changes and create the life you want.
In today's culture, we are often so focused on dealing with the many stressors of everyday life and on taking care of others, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious and depleted. Making an appointment for therapy is the first step towards taking care of yourself and feeling better. In my experience, lasting change can begin to take place as you share with a therapist who will listen compassionately, join with you to understand your experience, and guide you to find and use the tools to make postive changes and create the life you want.
(410) 941-8616 View (410) 941-8616
Photo of Ida L Walsch in Annapolis, MD
Ida L Walsch
MA, CAC-AD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am offering in-person sessions for those who have been vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic
I am offering in-person sessions for those who have been vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic
(410) 936-4002 View (410) 936-4002
Photo of Lisa Eschbach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lisa Eschbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I specialize in betrayal trauma, affair recovery for couples, as well as sex and porn addiction for male/female and Mother Hunger. Have you hit the “work required” part of your relationship? I am trained to address intimacy issues and support you to restore healing and peace. Our space will be a place where we work to understand the "why" around what is happening in your life and where we identify how to change what isn't working for you. Once we understand these origins, we can help you to highlight your strengths while overcoming the hurdles and challenges that are in the way of your life goals, happiness, and daily peace.
I specialize in betrayal trauma, affair recovery for couples, as well as sex and porn addiction for male/female and Mother Hunger. Have you hit the “work required” part of your relationship? I am trained to address intimacy issues and support you to restore healing and peace. Our space will be a place where we work to understand the "why" around what is happening in your life and where we identify how to change what isn't working for you. Once we understand these origins, we can help you to highlight your strengths while overcoming the hurdles and challenges that are in the way of your life goals, happiness, and daily peace.
(410) 612-3004 View (410) 612-3004
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Douglas, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Dr. Jacqueline Douglas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Do you want to feel like yourself again? Are you ready to take back control of your life? If you’re reading this, you’re one step closer! Whether you're seeking to overcome self-doubt, cultivate healthier relationships, find meaning and purpose, reach new levels of success, or navigate life's transitions with greater ease, it would be my privilege to accompany you on your journey toward personal transformation. Through this journey, you can learn how to free yourself from anxiety and self-doubt so you can feel and perform your best.
Do you want to feel like yourself again? Are you ready to take back control of your life? If you’re reading this, you’re one step closer! Whether you're seeking to overcome self-doubt, cultivate healthier relationships, find meaning and purpose, reach new levels of success, or navigate life's transitions with greater ease, it would be my privilege to accompany you on your journey toward personal transformation. Through this journey, you can learn how to free yourself from anxiety and self-doubt so you can feel and perform your best.
(443) 516-9680 View (443) 516-9680

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Annapolis, MD

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Annapolis, MD who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% CareFirst
65% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Annapolis, MD see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Annapolis?

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.