Therapists in Florence, KY

Photo of Katie Hutson Schultz, Counselor in Florence, KY
Katie Hutson Schultz
Counselor, MEd, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Welcome! My name is Katie Schultz and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, person-centered, and eclectic. My goal as a counselor is to help clients find healing while creating a safe and welcoming environment to do so. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and rapport building. My goal is to create a space where my clients feel comfortable, safe, and valued.
Welcome! My name is Katie Schultz and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, person-centered, and eclectic. My goal as a counselor is to help clients find healing while creating a safe and welcoming environment to do so. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and rapport building. My goal is to create a space where my clients feel comfortable, safe, and valued.
(859) 710-5219 View (859) 710-5219
Photo of Stephanie McDonald, Counselor in Florence, KY
Stephanie McDonald
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Not accepting new clients
Stephanie graduated from Murray State University, with a Bachelor in Sociology. After moving to Cincinnati, she attended Cincinnati Christian University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Counseling with special focus on play and family therapy. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a member of The Association for Play Therapy. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping and collecting new experiences with family and friends.
Stephanie graduated from Murray State University, with a Bachelor in Sociology. After moving to Cincinnati, she attended Cincinnati Christian University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Counseling with special focus on play and family therapy. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a member of The Association for Play Therapy. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping and collecting new experiences with family and friends.
(859) 402-2634 View (859) 402-2634
Photo of Analisa Hagstrom, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Florence, KY
Analisa Hagstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist who will sit with you through the highs and lows of life? My approach as a therapist is to meet you - without judgement - wherever you are. I will collaborate with you in setting goals and support you in your journey to reach them. I aim to provide clients with an empathetic, supportive and safe space to be uniquely you. It is my hope that through the counseling journey, you become empowered to be the person you want to be. I am grateful to have the opportunity to witness your personal journey of growth.
Are you looking for a therapist who will sit with you through the highs and lows of life? My approach as a therapist is to meet you - without judgement - wherever you are. I will collaborate with you in setting goals and support you in your journey to reach them. I aim to provide clients with an empathetic, supportive and safe space to be uniquely you. It is my hope that through the counseling journey, you become empowered to be the person you want to be. I am grateful to have the opportunity to witness your personal journey of growth.
(859) 658-1561 View (859) 658-1561
Photo of Emerge Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Florence, KY
Emerge Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Do you feel like you've lost your sense of you? Anxiety can often keep us from enjoying or even participating in our lives. Do you feel like you are existing but not living? Is avoidance your best friend? Maybe intrusive thoughts are increasing the anxiety. Maybe, a disturbing thought crosses your mind and you think, "Why would I have a thought like that? This is not who I am." Maybe you can't sleep, you're exhausted, and you miss yourself... the real you. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself; nurture the relationship, grow, and evolve.
Do you feel like you've lost your sense of you? Anxiety can often keep us from enjoying or even participating in our lives. Do you feel like you are existing but not living? Is avoidance your best friend? Maybe intrusive thoughts are increasing the anxiety. Maybe, a disturbing thought crosses your mind and you think, "Why would I have a thought like that? This is not who I am." Maybe you can't sleep, you're exhausted, and you miss yourself... the real you. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself; nurture the relationship, grow, and evolve.
(859) 340-8446 View (859) 340-8446
Photo of Andrew Glockner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florence, KY
Andrew Glockner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are seeking a short-term, solution-focused resolution to a problem or hoping to find an experienced professional to join in on life's journey, my goal is to meet you where you are. I work primarily with adolescents but have experience with children and adults as well in a wide range of demographics, populations, and mental health concerns. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma and am experienced in assisting them work through their trauma history. I'm confident in our ability to see your situation more clearly through a collaborative effort!
Whether you are seeking a short-term, solution-focused resolution to a problem or hoping to find an experienced professional to join in on life's journey, my goal is to meet you where you are. I work primarily with adolescents but have experience with children and adults as well in a wide range of demographics, populations, and mental health concerns. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma and am experienced in assisting them work through their trauma history. I'm confident in our ability to see your situation more clearly through a collaborative effort!
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Photo of Kerrie Lynn Brittingham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florence, KY
Kerrie Lynn Brittingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Kerrie received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Kentucky Wesleyan College in 1997 and her Masters in Social Work from Spaulding University in 2005. Kerrie is a licensed clinical Social Worker in the State of Kentucky and has 12 years’ experience providing therapy to children and families. She worked with children in other capacities for an additional five years. She also completed the two year Conjoint Marital and Family Counseling Program and is trained in providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy. Kerrie completed the Juvenile Sex Offender Counselor certification program through the Kent School of Social Work.
Kerrie received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Kentucky Wesleyan College in 1997 and her Masters in Social Work from Spaulding University in 2005. Kerrie is a licensed clinical Social Worker in the State of Kentucky and has 12 years’ experience providing therapy to children and families. She worked with children in other capacities for an additional five years. She also completed the two year Conjoint Marital and Family Counseling Program and is trained in providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy. Kerrie completed the Juvenile Sex Offender Counselor certification program through the Kent School of Social Work.
(859) 666-6504 View (859) 666-6504
Photo of Kristyn Disibio Zion, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florence, KY
Kristyn Disibio Zion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTSI, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
You stumbled across this page because you want change. The process of finding help can be overwhelming and it is difficult to know where to even begin. Perhaps you are even wondering if what you are experiencing can even be helped. The answer? Healing and peace truly are yours to have, and it would be a privilege to use my training, skills, and expertise to assist you in this process. With years of experience in working with teenagers and adults, I specialize in addressing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and abuse, among others.
You stumbled across this page because you want change. The process of finding help can be overwhelming and it is difficult to know where to even begin. Perhaps you are even wondering if what you are experiencing can even be helped. The answer? Healing and peace truly are yours to have, and it would be a privilege to use my training, skills, and expertise to assist you in this process. With years of experience in working with teenagers and adults, I specialize in addressing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and abuse, among others.
(859) 710-9718 View (859) 710-9718
Photo of Marjie Appenfelder, Counselor in Florence, KY
Marjie Appenfelder
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Florence, KY 41042
Marjie is a licensed professional clinical counselor who is passionate about helping people. With a masters degree in clinical mental health and art therapy Marjie brings a unique set of tools to each session. Marjie has gained experience working in community mental health, foster care, a hospice setting, acute psychiatric inpatient, working with those with severe mental illness in an outpatient setting, and private practice outpatient.
Marjie is a licensed professional clinical counselor who is passionate about helping people. With a masters degree in clinical mental health and art therapy Marjie brings a unique set of tools to each session. Marjie has gained experience working in community mental health, foster care, a hospice setting, acute psychiatric inpatient, working with those with severe mental illness in an outpatient setting, and private practice outpatient.
(859) 484-8754 View (859) 484-8754
Photo of Emily Morin, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Florence, KY
Emily Morin
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Florence, KY 41042
New openings! We all encounter moments that challenge our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. These experiences often leave us feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, and/or we find ourselves us in avoidance. In your therapeutic journey, we’ll focus on the power of incremental and gentle adjustments. It’s the understanding that small changes in perception, behavior, or self-awareness can catalyze significant transformation. Like the smallest pebble creating ripples across a pond, we’ll explore subtle difference bringing about the most meaningful impact.
New openings! We all encounter moments that challenge our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. These experiences often leave us feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, and/or we find ourselves us in avoidance. In your therapeutic journey, we’ll focus on the power of incremental and gentle adjustments. It’s the understanding that small changes in perception, behavior, or self-awareness can catalyze significant transformation. Like the smallest pebble creating ripples across a pond, we’ll explore subtle difference bringing about the most meaningful impact.
(859) 710-8387 View (859) 710-8387
Photo of Lauren Hensley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florence, KY
Lauren Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Florence, KY 41042
I am grateful that people are able to trust me to be a part of their story. I want to be able to make a difference in people's lives so they can enjoy the life that was meant for them and be their best self. I graduated NKU in 2019 and have worked with many populations from children to adults, in the community to school based to inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
I am grateful that people are able to trust me to be a part of their story. I want to be able to make a difference in people's lives so they can enjoy the life that was meant for them and be their best self. I graduated NKU in 2019 and have worked with many populations from children to adults, in the community to school based to inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
(859) 203-0232 View (859) 203-0232
Photo of Stacie Hope Rutar-Combs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florence, KY
Stacie Hope Rutar-Combs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
I am a licensed and certified social worker with 30 years of experience in the fields of chemical dependency and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health issues .. I use Cognitive Behavioral , Humanistic ,and Rational Emotive treatment modalities. My areas of expertise include: Treating Anxiety and Depression, Self Esteem, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Fostercare and Adoption Issues, Chemical Dependency and Relapse Prevention.
I am a licensed and certified social worker with 30 years of experience in the fields of chemical dependency and psychotherapy for a variety of mental health issues .. I use Cognitive Behavioral , Humanistic ,and Rational Emotive treatment modalities. My areas of expertise include: Treating Anxiety and Depression, Self Esteem, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Fostercare and Adoption Issues, Chemical Dependency and Relapse Prevention.
(859) 651-7898 View (859) 651-7898
Photo of Steven Smith, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Florence, KY
Steven Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Life is hard and there are no instructions. Sometimes we struggle with the big issues like death, anxiety, isolation and meaninglessness. Often, our relationship with family and other loved ones has has been challenging and painful. Substance use can truly destroy a life. For some there are specific quirks that are causing problems. Most of these issues require in-depth exploration; developing a better relationship to our minds, self and others; increased mindfulness and engagement with the world; and specific behavioral change. Having a trusted guide can be a great help.
Life is hard and there are no instructions. Sometimes we struggle with the big issues like death, anxiety, isolation and meaninglessness. Often, our relationship with family and other loved ones has has been challenging and painful. Substance use can truly destroy a life. For some there are specific quirks that are causing problems. Most of these issues require in-depth exploration; developing a better relationship to our minds, self and others; increased mindfulness and engagement with the world; and specific behavioral change. Having a trusted guide can be a great help.
(859) 605-5109 View (859) 605-5109
Photo of Stefani McElheney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Florence, KY
Stefani McElheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Hello and thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I hope we will begin working together soon. I am a strengths-based, collaborative Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. My ideal client would be an individual (child, adolescent, adult), couple, and/or family, who are motivated and willing to work with me to improve their life functioning in order to achieve their goals of being successful in all life domains.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I hope we will begin working together soon. I am a strengths-based, collaborative Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. My ideal client would be an individual (child, adolescent, adult), couple, and/or family, who are motivated and willing to work with me to improve their life functioning in order to achieve their goals of being successful in all life domains.
(859) 274-9607 View (859) 274-9607
Photo of Lauryn Reckner, Counselor in Florence, KY
Lauryn Reckner
Counselor, LPCA
Verified Verified
Florence, KY 41042
Immediate availability for EMDR and traditional therapy in person or telehealth! Counseling allows space and time to work towards self acceptance and inner peace. I believe being vulnerable is one of the bravest things we as humans can do. As a licensed counselor who is trained in EMDR, it is my role to create a space that welcomes vulnerability by creating a non-judgemental, safe space where you are met with empathy and support . I use a trauma informed person-centered approach to help you move toward the goals we will create together. I believe you have within you what you need to heal, grow and move toward inner peace!
Immediate availability for EMDR and traditional therapy in person or telehealth! Counseling allows space and time to work towards self acceptance and inner peace. I believe being vulnerable is one of the bravest things we as humans can do. As a licensed counselor who is trained in EMDR, it is my role to create a space that welcomes vulnerability by creating a non-judgemental, safe space where you are met with empathy and support . I use a trauma informed person-centered approach to help you move toward the goals we will create together. I believe you have within you what you need to heal, grow and move toward inner peace!
(859) 927-8712 View (859) 927-8712
Photo of Lori Veselovec, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florence, KY
Lori Veselovec
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Florence, KY 41042
Hello! I am a seasoned adolescent and adult therapist, and I am here to support you. I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic relationship is being able to feel that it’s safe to be honest and that your therapist is relatable and nonjudgmental. I offer those qualities in my work with preteen, teens and adults who are struggling with perfectionism, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. I am here to help you, as a parent, and/or your child go through the transition from middle to high school and beyond. I have a special interest in working with teens and adults who are gifted, high achieving or “twice exceptional”
Hello! I am a seasoned adolescent and adult therapist, and I am here to support you. I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic relationship is being able to feel that it’s safe to be honest and that your therapist is relatable and nonjudgmental. I offer those qualities in my work with preteen, teens and adults who are struggling with perfectionism, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. I am here to help you, as a parent, and/or your child go through the transition from middle to high school and beyond. I have a special interest in working with teens and adults who are gifted, high achieving or “twice exceptional”
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Photo of Cassaundra Ogden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Florence, KY
Cassaundra Ogden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Do you find your child or teen struggling with behaviors, isolation, or trouble getting along with peers or family members? Have they lost interest in things that normally brought them joy, or expressed worrisome thoughts about changes or ongoing stressors in their life? Has their school performance suffered due to these symptoms? As a former teacher-turned-therapist, I have seen this struggle all too often. I am here to tell you, you and your child are not alone, and I can help! I understand the vulnerable experience children and teens go through in this phase of life, and it is important to help them identify and express emotions
Do you find your child or teen struggling with behaviors, isolation, or trouble getting along with peers or family members? Have they lost interest in things that normally brought them joy, or expressed worrisome thoughts about changes or ongoing stressors in their life? Has their school performance suffered due to these symptoms? As a former teacher-turned-therapist, I have seen this struggle all too often. I am here to tell you, you and your child are not alone, and I can help! I understand the vulnerable experience children and teens go through in this phase of life, and it is important to help them identify and express emotions
(859) 295-5408 View (859) 295-5408
Photo of Lori Beth Haggard, Licensed Social Worker in Florence, KY
Lori Beth Haggard
Licensed Social Worker , MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042  (Online Only)
I am a Master’s level Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s level certificate in Addiction Studies. My specialties in psychotherapy include providing therapeutic services for teens 12 and older, working with survivors of domestic violence, and treating individuals with substance abuse disorders. I also help clients with issues including intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, responding to anger, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
I am a Master’s level Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s level certificate in Addiction Studies. My specialties in psychotherapy include providing therapeutic services for teens 12 and older, working with survivors of domestic violence, and treating individuals with substance abuse disorders. I also help clients with issues including intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, responding to anger, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
(859) 715-0991 View (859) 715-0991
Photo of Kirk D Little, Psychologist in Florence, KY
Kirk D Little
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
L+C Psychological Services is the Premiere Psychology Group in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area. We are uniquely qualified in that we are all skilled Doctors of Psychology with the knowledge and expertise needed to help you get what you are looking for. We know that finding the right therapist is important, and can be challenging with so many possible options. We invite you to learn more about how with good psychological testing and personalized therapy, you can be sure to get the kind of help you need to find peace of mind, and to live a happy, fulfilling life.
L+C Psychological Services is the Premiere Psychology Group in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area. We are uniquely qualified in that we are all skilled Doctors of Psychology with the knowledge and expertise needed to help you get what you are looking for. We know that finding the right therapist is important, and can be challenging with so many possible options. We invite you to learn more about how with good psychological testing and personalized therapy, you can be sure to get the kind of help you need to find peace of mind, and to live a happy, fulfilling life.
(859) 209-6182 View (859) 209-6182
Photo of Hannah Hagins, Pre-Licensed Professional in Florence, KY
Hannah Hagins
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Hello there! I am so glad that you have found yourself taking this step into finding the counselor that is best for you. I believe that YOU are the master of your own reality and the expert of your life. I strive to create a safe, supportive, empathetic and nonjudgemental environment for my clients to explore this reality using a multitude of therapeutic techniques.
Hello there! I am so glad that you have found yourself taking this step into finding the counselor that is best for you. I believe that YOU are the master of your own reality and the expert of your life. I strive to create a safe, supportive, empathetic and nonjudgemental environment for my clients to explore this reality using a multitude of therapeutic techniques.
(859) 251-2575 View (859) 251-2575
Photo of Hannah Briner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Florence, KY
Hannah Briner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
I specialize in supporting children, teenagers, and young adults on their journey towards personal growth and emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by young individuals in today's world, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic process. My goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where young people can openly express themselves and assist them in achieving balance, peace, and emotional maturity in their life. I am licensed in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky in order to provide in person or telehealth services to anyone from those states.
I specialize in supporting children, teenagers, and young adults on their journey towards personal growth and emotional well-being. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by young individuals in today's world, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic process. My goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where young people can openly express themselves and assist them in achieving balance, peace, and emotional maturity in their life. I am licensed in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky in order to provide in person or telehealth services to anyone from those states.
(859) 651-1027 View (859) 651-1027

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Florence, KY

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Florence, KY who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
77% Self Esteem
77% Stress
76% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
84% Aetna
71% UMR

How Therapists in Florence, KY see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Florence?

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.