Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Beatriz Ridgley, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Beatriz Ridgley
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
As a counselor, my goal is to provide a nonjudgmental, trauma-informed space to process complex emotions while also challenging old patterns of behavior that are no longer serving my clients. My approach to therapy is collaborative. Together we can uncover strengths, foster coping tools to improve daily functioning and quality of life. I am a psychodynamic, attachment-based therapist, which means we will explore past experiences including messages about self, others, and the world and how they can be hindering current patterns and overall well-being.
As a counselor, my goal is to provide a nonjudgmental, trauma-informed space to process complex emotions while also challenging old patterns of behavior that are no longer serving my clients. My approach to therapy is collaborative. Together we can uncover strengths, foster coping tools to improve daily functioning and quality of life. I am a psychodynamic, attachment-based therapist, which means we will explore past experiences including messages about self, others, and the world and how they can be hindering current patterns and overall well-being.
(971) 257-1426 View (971) 257-1426
Photo of Ranann Blatter, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Ranann Blatter
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, HTR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97296
Does the idea of sitting in an office not feel supportive to you? Do you feel more authentic, inspired, and connected in nature? As beings who are part of nature, aligning with the timing of nature allows our nervous systems to relax and regulate. Our cultural timelines emphasize productivity and constant striving for more, pressures that go against our natural proclivity for essential things like rest, awe, enjoyment, presence, and connection. When we reconnect to the rhythm of our natural surroundings, we easily bring ourselves back to baseline where we can restore wellness, be creative, & truly experience the fullness of life.
Does the idea of sitting in an office not feel supportive to you? Do you feel more authentic, inspired, and connected in nature? As beings who are part of nature, aligning with the timing of nature allows our nervous systems to relax and regulate. Our cultural timelines emphasize productivity and constant striving for more, pressures that go against our natural proclivity for essential things like rest, awe, enjoyment, presence, and connection. When we reconnect to the rhythm of our natural surroundings, we easily bring ourselves back to baseline where we can restore wellness, be creative, & truly experience the fullness of life.
(971) 247-3292 View (971) 247-3292
Photo of Melissa Ramsey, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Melissa Ramsey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with a wide range of individuals and have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety and mood related disorders. I work well with individuals who identify as being "emotionally sensitive" and who struggle with impulsivity and/or unstable relationships. I also work well with those have a hard time experiencing their emotions and want to be more fully present and engaged in their lives.
I enjoy working with a wide range of individuals and have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety and mood related disorders. I work well with individuals who identify as being "emotionally sensitive" and who struggle with impulsivity and/or unstable relationships. I also work well with those have a hard time experiencing their emotions and want to be more fully present and engaged in their lives.
(503) 743-6812 View (503) 743-6812
Photo of Colin Wolf, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Colin Wolf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
You've been struggling for a while, and now you're looking for help in figuring out how to move forward. Maybe you're grappling with impacts of harmful or neglectful relationships, whether in your past or now, and you have difficulty trusting yourself and others. Guess what? The most powerful healing happens in relationships built on growing trust. My trust-building approach is engaged, curious, open-minded and collaborative. We'll explore your inner world, and how you relate with others, to increase your awareness of the patterns and stories of your life and transform limitations into resources.
You've been struggling for a while, and now you're looking for help in figuring out how to move forward. Maybe you're grappling with impacts of harmful or neglectful relationships, whether in your past or now, and you have difficulty trusting yourself and others. Guess what? The most powerful healing happens in relationships built on growing trust. My trust-building approach is engaged, curious, open-minded and collaborative. We'll explore your inner world, and how you relate with others, to increase your awareness of the patterns and stories of your life and transform limitations into resources.
(971) 287-3560 View (971) 287-3560
Photo of Jill Bergman, PsyD, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Jill Bergman, PsyD
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In my therapy practice, I have worked with all kinds of people from all walks of life. I initially helped those suffering from eating disorders—which led to underlying issues like depression; anxiety; other addictions; and all types of abuse (sexual, physical, mental and emotional) and, especially, PTSD. So I am experienced and knowledgeable in treating all those issues.
In my therapy practice, I have worked with all kinds of people from all walks of life. I initially helped those suffering from eating disorders—which led to underlying issues like depression; anxiety; other addictions; and all types of abuse (sexual, physical, mental and emotional) and, especially, PTSD. So I am experienced and knowledgeable in treating all those issues.
(503) 783-8540 View (503) 783-8540
Photo of Alexander Rales, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Alexander Rales
Clinical Social Work Associate, LMSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I consider a myriad of techniques and philosophies in my approach to therapy, specifically focusing on Motivational Interviewing, Optimistic Therapy, and Positive Psychological Coaching. I strongly believe in a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy: acknowledging the first step of coming to therapy is often the toughest and building off each client’s unique confidence and perspectives. My experience includes working closely with the LGBTQ+ community and individuals experiencing homelessness, along with helping clients navigate complex systems as they seek assistance in healing and improving their circumstances.
I consider a myriad of techniques and philosophies in my approach to therapy, specifically focusing on Motivational Interviewing, Optimistic Therapy, and Positive Psychological Coaching. I strongly believe in a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy: acknowledging the first step of coming to therapy is often the toughest and building off each client’s unique confidence and perspectives. My experience includes working closely with the LGBTQ+ community and individuals experiencing homelessness, along with helping clients navigate complex systems as they seek assistance in healing and improving their circumstances.
(971) 800-2595 View (971) 800-2595
Photo of Kellyjoy Kanaley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kellyjoy Kanaley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I offer EMDR, Mindful CBT, Body-Centered, Transpersonal Psychotherapy for individuals and couples. The style of therapy I offer aims to help you recognize and develop your full potential, and to connect with a sense of meaning and purpose in your life. This approach to therapy can be particularly helpful if you are seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world, and if you are seeking to integrate spiritual experiences into your life or if you are in pursuit of a creative project and you are experiencing blocks.
I offer EMDR, Mindful CBT, Body-Centered, Transpersonal Psychotherapy for individuals and couples. The style of therapy I offer aims to help you recognize and develop your full potential, and to connect with a sense of meaning and purpose in your life. This approach to therapy can be particularly helpful if you are seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world, and if you are seeking to integrate spiritual experiences into your life or if you are in pursuit of a creative project and you are experiencing blocks.
(503) 536-1097 View (503) 536-1097
Photo of Pepita L Payne, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Pepita L Payne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
People come to therapy for many different reasons. Perhaps you wish to know yourself better or to understand what is happening in your relationships. Sometimes depression or anxiety become unmanageable. Emotional pain and suffering are normal aspects of life but it is possible to achieve a more balanced and resilient emotional state and more fulfilling relationships.
People come to therapy for many different reasons. Perhaps you wish to know yourself better or to understand what is happening in your relationships. Sometimes depression or anxiety become unmanageable. Emotional pain and suffering are normal aspects of life but it is possible to achieve a more balanced and resilient emotional state and more fulfilling relationships.
(971) 351-3392 View (971) 351-3392
Photo of Adriane Nada, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Adriane Nada
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Are you having difficulty overcoming a problem, mood or behavior? If an issue is not relatively easy to change, then chances are, there is a block of some sort preventing the progression and flow of positive thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is frustrating, discouraging and painful as an intelligent and competent person to work on a goal and not get the results you hope for.
Are you having difficulty overcoming a problem, mood or behavior? If an issue is not relatively easy to change, then chances are, there is a block of some sort preventing the progression and flow of positive thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is frustrating, discouraging and painful as an intelligent and competent person to work on a goal and not get the results you hope for.
(503) 966-8393 View (503) 966-8393
Photo of Valerie Mustonen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Valerie Mustonen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been a therapist for 26 years. I worked in residential treatment, medical social work, outpatient therapy and private practice. I am someone who listens closely to your story and current needs to find solutions to ultimately help you achieve a healthy mental state. Each session will be directed by you to tackle long term issues or problems that come up each week. I have many different treatment approaches to help you see why you are experiencing difficulty in your life.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been a therapist for 26 years. I worked in residential treatment, medical social work, outpatient therapy and private practice. I am someone who listens closely to your story and current needs to find solutions to ultimately help you achieve a healthy mental state. Each session will be directed by you to tackle long term issues or problems that come up each week. I have many different treatment approaches to help you see why you are experiencing difficulty in your life.
(503) 832-6375 View (503) 832-6375
Photo of Wyatt Okeefe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Wyatt Okeefe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my focus is on fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, as well as those who are neurodivergent, straight, or gender conforming. My goal is to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported in my practice. I offer private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida, and New York.
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my focus is on fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, as well as those who are neurodivergent, straight, or gender conforming. My goal is to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported in my practice. I offer private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida, and New York.
(971) 328-3803 View (971) 328-3803
Photo of Kristen Tryniszewski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kristen Tryniszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
Everyone needs a little help sometimes. Moods fluctuate; every-day stressors pile up; we argue with loved ones, experience trauma and loss; and constant changes demand us to adapt. Basically, life is known to throw us curveballs and some of those can be quite daunting. The good news, though, is you don't have to go through it alone. If you're looking for support and encouragement, new skills to cope, a fresh perspective, solutions, or simply just someone to talk to, I'm here for you.
Everyone needs a little help sometimes. Moods fluctuate; every-day stressors pile up; we argue with loved ones, experience trauma and loss; and constant changes demand us to adapt. Basically, life is known to throw us curveballs and some of those can be quite daunting. The good news, though, is you don't have to go through it alone. If you're looking for support and encouragement, new skills to cope, a fresh perspective, solutions, or simply just someone to talk to, I'm here for you.
(971) 232-3688 View (971) 232-3688
Photo of Karlee Coffey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Karlee Coffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, LMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Just as no two people are affected the exact same way by depression and anxiety, there is no “one size fits all” treatment. What works for one person might not work for another. My passion in counseling is aimed at clinical mental health. Suffering with anxiety, depression, trauma and ptsd can range in severity and symptoms, requiring different interventions. I am eclectic in my approach so that I can meet the client where they need guidance the most. Coming from a strengths-based approach allows me to help the client discover the positive attributes in a situation rather than the negative.
Just as no two people are affected the exact same way by depression and anxiety, there is no “one size fits all” treatment. What works for one person might not work for another. My passion in counseling is aimed at clinical mental health. Suffering with anxiety, depression, trauma and ptsd can range in severity and symptoms, requiring different interventions. I am eclectic in my approach so that I can meet the client where they need guidance the most. Coming from a strengths-based approach allows me to help the client discover the positive attributes in a situation rather than the negative.
(503) 832-6677 View (503) 832-6677
Photo of Veronica Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Veronica Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I specialize in body image, self-esteem and healthy weight loss. If weight loss is your goal, we can discuss how I may be able to help. I also believe in body positivity and acceptance, and my goal is for you to love yourself regardless of how you look. Whether it's developing healthy and meaningful relationships, relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression, or finding a sense of inner satisfaction and wellbeing, I believe you can achieve your goals and find lasting change. I also have personal experience with weight loss and have maintained a loss of over 75lbs, giving me personal insight into the weight loss process.
I specialize in body image, self-esteem and healthy weight loss. If weight loss is your goal, we can discuss how I may be able to help. I also believe in body positivity and acceptance, and my goal is for you to love yourself regardless of how you look. Whether it's developing healthy and meaningful relationships, relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression, or finding a sense of inner satisfaction and wellbeing, I believe you can achieve your goals and find lasting change. I also have personal experience with weight loss and have maintained a loss of over 75lbs, giving me personal insight into the weight loss process.
(503) 765-7177 View (503) 765-7177
Photo of Kate Westfall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kate Westfall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I’m Kate. I’ve been working with young people for a long time and I love it. My role is to support and encourage people ages 14-30ish as you explore, discover, and create who you are. You are the hero of this story. You are the one who can grow magic even after hard times in hard places. And I’m a supporting sidekick. You probably have ideas about why life feels hard right now. Often it’s things like: thoughts that don’t stop, really big feelings, relationship struggles, worries, or school. Or maybe everything just feels like a confusing mess and you’re worried about what happens if you don’t sort it out.
I’m Kate. I’ve been working with young people for a long time and I love it. My role is to support and encourage people ages 14-30ish as you explore, discover, and create who you are. You are the hero of this story. You are the one who can grow magic even after hard times in hard places. And I’m a supporting sidekick. You probably have ideas about why life feels hard right now. Often it’s things like: thoughts that don’t stop, really big feelings, relationship struggles, worries, or school. Or maybe everything just feels like a confusing mess and you’re worried about what happens if you don’t sort it out.
(503) 436-6204 View (503) 436-6204
Photo of Nate Wilson-Traisman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Nate Wilson-Traisman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I love working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families. I enjoy helping teens and families navigate the changes of adolescence, while working to engage parents around their teenager's change process. While adolescence can challenge families, it's also a developmental phase filled with exciting and inspiring change. My work with adults often focuses on relationship issues, anxiety, stress management, and issues related to emotional expression. I work well with adults who are motivated to change behavior, and are wanting some extra help. My clients appreciate my grounded presence, and my strengths-based approach.
I love working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families. I enjoy helping teens and families navigate the changes of adolescence, while working to engage parents around their teenager's change process. While adolescence can challenge families, it's also a developmental phase filled with exciting and inspiring change. My work with adults often focuses on relationship issues, anxiety, stress management, and issues related to emotional expression. I work well with adults who are motivated to change behavior, and are wanting some extra help. My clients appreciate my grounded presence, and my strengths-based approach.
(503) 549-4841 View (503) 549-4841
Photo of Daniel Hofmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Daniel Hofmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
To seek help means acknowledging that toughing it out alone isn't working. Whether you are a seasoned recipient of counseling, or this is your first time, I commend you for taking this step and look forward to working with you. My approach to counseling is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on my knowledge of a variety of therapeutic models while being rooted in humanistic, psychodynamic, and emotionally-focused psychotherapies. We'll work well together if you're looking to change relationship patterns, free yourself from feelings of sadness and fear, or work through old traumas.
To seek help means acknowledging that toughing it out alone isn't working. Whether you are a seasoned recipient of counseling, or this is your first time, I commend you for taking this step and look forward to working with you. My approach to counseling is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on my knowledge of a variety of therapeutic models while being rooted in humanistic, psychodynamic, and emotionally-focused psychotherapies. We'll work well together if you're looking to change relationship patterns, free yourself from feelings of sadness and fear, or work through old traumas.
(503) 994-1267 View (503) 994-1267
Photo of Donald Jackson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Donald Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Not accepting new clients
My practice is primarily focused on working with clients of color, and while I am rooted in Person-Centered Counseling, my approach is enriched by combining my Eclectic therapeutic styles. My overarching goal is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Together, we will delve into the roots of your challenges, foster resilience, and build a brighter future. I am dedicated to your well-being and committed to providing the support you need on your path to healing and personal or relationship growth.
My practice is primarily focused on working with clients of color, and while I am rooted in Person-Centered Counseling, my approach is enriched by combining my Eclectic therapeutic styles. My overarching goal is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Together, we will delve into the roots of your challenges, foster resilience, and build a brighter future. I am dedicated to your well-being and committed to providing the support you need on your path to healing and personal or relationship growth.
(503) 506-4854 View (503) 506-4854
Photo of Jeffrey C. Peyton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jeffrey C. Peyton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As an experienced adolescent therapist, I am passionate about helping teens and young adults figure out who they are, who they want to be, and the barriers keeping them from realizing these goals. I have assisted hundreds of adolescents through academic challenges, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, substance use, ADHD, traumatic experiences, social anxiety and divorce. We work together to develop healthy ways to manage our emotional life, identify strengths which can support self-confidence and motivation, and learn to trust we are worthy of the love and connection we want in our relationships.
As an experienced adolescent therapist, I am passionate about helping teens and young adults figure out who they are, who they want to be, and the barriers keeping them from realizing these goals. I have assisted hundreds of adolescents through academic challenges, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, substance use, ADHD, traumatic experiences, social anxiety and divorce. We work together to develop healthy ways to manage our emotional life, identify strengths which can support self-confidence and motivation, and learn to trust we are worthy of the love and connection we want in our relationships.
(503) 406-1557 View (503) 406-1557
Photo of Barbara Dawne Feil, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Barbara Dawne Feil
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, marriage and relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, sexuality, identity and self image, spiritual development, spiritual abuse, church and ministry. 35 years of pastoral ministry has given me great exposure to issues across an adult life span including singleness, finding life direction, finding a life partner, empty-nest, mid-life crisis, retirement and finding fulfillment when life and health is diminished by age.
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, marriage and relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, sexuality, identity and self image, spiritual development, spiritual abuse, church and ministry. 35 years of pastoral ministry has given me great exposure to issues across an adult life span including singleness, finding life direction, finding a life partner, empty-nest, mid-life crisis, retirement and finding fulfillment when life and health is diminished by age.
(855) 683-7311 View (855) 683-7311

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.