Therapists in Saint Paul, MN

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Photo of Libby Luecke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Paul, MN
Libby Luecke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to find hope in their struggles and freedom from emotional pain. I work from a systems approach and have a strong desire to help clients discover and engage in healthy relationships with themselves and others. I find fulfillment in working with clients to understand the interconnectedness between our individual selves and the people around us.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to find hope in their struggles and freedom from emotional pain. I work from a systems approach and have a strong desire to help clients discover and engage in healthy relationships with themselves and others. I find fulfillment in working with clients to understand the interconnectedness between our individual selves and the people around us.
(612) 261-1575 View (612) 261-1575
Photo of Jenny Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Paul, MN
Jenny Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychotherapist and Mindful Self-Compassion Trained Teacher and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy). I integrate mindfulness skills and a variety of clinical modalities, including sensorimotor therapy, into my work with all clients. I love helping people realize that they have the capacity to shift their stories - to become skilled at managing the pathways that lead to suffering.
I am a psychotherapist and Mindful Self-Compassion Trained Teacher and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy). I integrate mindfulness skills and a variety of clinical modalities, including sensorimotor therapy, into my work with all clients. I love helping people realize that they have the capacity to shift their stories - to become skilled at managing the pathways that lead to suffering.
(651) 419-3927 View (651) 419-3927
Photo of Melissa Albaugh Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Saint Paul, MN
Melissa Albaugh Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Melissa (she/they) I’m so glad that you are here. I recognize the vulnerability it takes to engage in therapy, and I feel that it is a privilege to be able to walk alongside someone and be a witness to their growth and discovery. First and foremost, I am a relational therapist. I strongly believe that we heal in safe and healthy relationships with others. Therefore, I work hard to build relationships with each of my clients. I am strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma and attachment-informed. It is also important to me that I work to create a space that is Fat positive, Queer and Trans affirming, and Culturally responsive.
Melissa (she/they) I’m so glad that you are here. I recognize the vulnerability it takes to engage in therapy, and I feel that it is a privilege to be able to walk alongside someone and be a witness to their growth and discovery. First and foremost, I am a relational therapist. I strongly believe that we heal in safe and healthy relationships with others. Therefore, I work hard to build relationships with each of my clients. I am strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma and attachment-informed. It is also important to me that I work to create a space that is Fat positive, Queer and Trans affirming, and Culturally responsive.
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Photo of Ryan Peterson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Saint Paul, MN
Ryan Peterson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
My style is to support you in connecting with and understanding your deepest agendas and to facilitate the expansion of your capacity to live authentically, with all the parts of yourself. Many people have an intuition of when it's time to make changes, but are uncertain about how to do this, or where to begin. I'll help you generate the right conditions for change by first working to thoroughly understand your inner landscape, and what it’s like to be you. I'll assist you in refining your own instruction manual, find a useful balance between self-acceptance and self-discipline, and live a life with more self-compassion.
My style is to support you in connecting with and understanding your deepest agendas and to facilitate the expansion of your capacity to live authentically, with all the parts of yourself. Many people have an intuition of when it's time to make changes, but are uncertain about how to do this, or where to begin. I'll help you generate the right conditions for change by first working to thoroughly understand your inner landscape, and what it’s like to be you. I'll assist you in refining your own instruction manual, find a useful balance between self-acceptance and self-discipline, and live a life with more self-compassion.
(612) 255-1842 View (612) 255-1842
Photo of Denise M Hein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Paul, MN
Denise M Hein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Outwardly your life appears good. You’re accomplished, educated, and successful. You’ve mastered the art of presentation, the illusion of perfection. But inside, you aren’t happy, never feeling good enough with that internal voice reminding you where you fall short. You are irritable, flat, tearful and hanging on by a thread. Recently, it's gotten worse. The years of keeping it together have left you exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed, and not even recognizing yourself. Feeling disappointed, disillusioned and dissatisfied, you’re desperate for a change. Should you get divorced, change careers, or drive away in the middle of the night?
Outwardly your life appears good. You’re accomplished, educated, and successful. You’ve mastered the art of presentation, the illusion of perfection. But inside, you aren’t happy, never feeling good enough with that internal voice reminding you where you fall short. You are irritable, flat, tearful and hanging on by a thread. Recently, it's gotten worse. The years of keeping it together have left you exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed, and not even recognizing yourself. Feeling disappointed, disillusioned and dissatisfied, you’re desperate for a change. Should you get divorced, change careers, or drive away in the middle of the night?
(651) 564-9943 View (651) 564-9943
Photo of Bex Wilde, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Paul, MN
Bex Wilde
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55119  (Online Only)
I view life as story and the process of therapy as understanding and rewriting our stories. We all possess what we need to break patterns that are no longer serving us and sometimes we need a little help along the way. It can be difficult to create our own unique stories in a world that is constantly telling us who we should or shouldn’t be. My goal is to help you discover what is and is not working for you in your current story and support the cultivation of new possibilities alongside you to help you live as your most wild, healed, and authentic self. I take a gentle, compassionate, and collaborative approach to therapy.
I view life as story and the process of therapy as understanding and rewriting our stories. We all possess what we need to break patterns that are no longer serving us and sometimes we need a little help along the way. It can be difficult to create our own unique stories in a world that is constantly telling us who we should or shouldn’t be. My goal is to help you discover what is and is not working for you in your current story and support the cultivation of new possibilities alongside you to help you live as your most wild, healed, and authentic self. I take a gentle, compassionate, and collaborative approach to therapy.
(651) 867-2704 View (651) 867-2704
Photo of Wendy Abbott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Paul, MN
Wendy Abbott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Beginning counseling for the first time can be frightening. The journey to emotional health takes courage. Sometimes you don't realize your own strength until you come face to face with your greatest challenges. Owning our own story and loving ourselves through that process is one of the bravest things that you will ever do. Your courageous journey in counseling is a way to reach personal goals, reduce suffering, and get more joy out of life. We have an unlimited capacity to heal ourselves, despite the pain we've suffered.
Beginning counseling for the first time can be frightening. The journey to emotional health takes courage. Sometimes you don't realize your own strength until you come face to face with your greatest challenges. Owning our own story and loving ourselves through that process is one of the bravest things that you will ever do. Your courageous journey in counseling is a way to reach personal goals, reduce suffering, and get more joy out of life. We have an unlimited capacity to heal ourselves, despite the pain we've suffered.
(651) 238-9447 View (651) 238-9447
Photo of Kerry McIntyre-Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Paul, MN
Kerry McIntyre-Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
It's been a hell of a couple years, hasn't it? If you're finding yourself struggling in your personal relationships or feeling down, unmotivated, anxious, fearful ON TOP of the the stress and anxiety that these last couple of years has brought, I have good news for you. 1. You are not alone. 2. I can help. You absolutely can experience more happiness and fulfillment in your life. And you deserve to as well.
It's been a hell of a couple years, hasn't it? If you're finding yourself struggling in your personal relationships or feeling down, unmotivated, anxious, fearful ON TOP of the the stress and anxiety that these last couple of years has brought, I have good news for you. 1. You are not alone. 2. I can help. You absolutely can experience more happiness and fulfillment in your life. And you deserve to as well.
(612) 979-1890 View (612) 979-1890
Photo of Charlie Miller, Counselor in Saint Paul, MN
Charlie Miller
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Having challenges with mental health can be overwhelming, lonely, and distressing. My goal is to welcome you and/or your loved ones to a comfortable space where we can explore these difficulties. I come with an accepting trauma-informed mindset to encourage learning, growth, and perseverance. Let me join you in finding your strengths and resilience.
Having challenges with mental health can be overwhelming, lonely, and distressing. My goal is to welcome you and/or your loved ones to a comfortable space where we can explore these difficulties. I come with an accepting trauma-informed mindset to encourage learning, growth, and perseverance. Let me join you in finding your strengths and resilience.
(651) 877-8458 View (651) 877-8458
Photo of Molly Buhler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Paul, MN
Molly Buhler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116
Seeking a therapist can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process and I commend you for taking this first step towards change and healing! I am currently accepting new clients and would be honored to work with you.
Seeking a therapist can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process and I commend you for taking this first step towards change and healing! I am currently accepting new clients and would be honored to work with you.
(651) 615-9491 View (651) 615-9491
Photo of Roberta Sorenson, Counselor in Saint Paul, MN
Roberta Sorenson
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Do you find it difficult to be kind to yourself? Do you feel as if your creativity is stifled? Do your relationships feel unmanageable? Perhaps you have been told you are too sensitive or that you think too much. You don't need to keep it inside. I know how important it is to feel seen and heard without judgement. I am good at identifying hidden strengths... strengths you may discount due to self-criticism and emotional pain. We can work together to help you love yourself so that you may be able to fully experience the love of others, accomplish the things you hope to accomplish, and gain a more positive perspective on your life.
Do you find it difficult to be kind to yourself? Do you feel as if your creativity is stifled? Do your relationships feel unmanageable? Perhaps you have been told you are too sensitive or that you think too much. You don't need to keep it inside. I know how important it is to feel seen and heard without judgement. I am good at identifying hidden strengths... strengths you may discount due to self-criticism and emotional pain. We can work together to help you love yourself so that you may be able to fully experience the love of others, accomplish the things you hope to accomplish, and gain a more positive perspective on your life.
(218) 276-5532 View (218) 276-5532
Photo of Erin Mellenthin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Paul, MN
Erin Mellenthin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I greatly respect your courage in seeking support and reaching out. I strive to create a safe space for your most authentic self and am dedicated to meeting you with empathy, genuine curiosity, and a balance of challenge and support. I welcome a wide variety of clients, both individuals and couples, to navigate anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, and an examination of the many relationships in our lives. I see therapy as a collaborative space where all of your identities can feel seen and heard.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I greatly respect your courage in seeking support and reaching out. I strive to create a safe space for your most authentic self and am dedicated to meeting you with empathy, genuine curiosity, and a balance of challenge and support. I welcome a wide variety of clients, both individuals and couples, to navigate anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, and an examination of the many relationships in our lives. I see therapy as a collaborative space where all of your identities can feel seen and heard.
(651) 427-1868 View (651) 427-1868
Photo of Leigh Rosenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Paul, MN
Leigh Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
The power of relationship and being present and embodied guide my work in supporting people dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, grief, health issues, or other challenges. My approach is built on compassion, care and respect for the experiences and identities that make you who you are. If you have suffered traumatic or difficult experience, from birth till now, want to be at home in yourself and with others; if you are trying to navigate a world that too easily permits oppression, or you want to grow the kernels of wholeness (even if hidden) within you, I hope to explore working together.
The power of relationship and being present and embodied guide my work in supporting people dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, grief, health issues, or other challenges. My approach is built on compassion, care and respect for the experiences and identities that make you who you are. If you have suffered traumatic or difficult experience, from birth till now, want to be at home in yourself and with others; if you are trying to navigate a world that too easily permits oppression, or you want to grow the kernels of wholeness (even if hidden) within you, I hope to explore working together.
(612) 446-0933 View (612) 446-0933
Photo of Minnesota Center for Psychology, Psychologist in Saint Paul, MN
Minnesota Center for Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
At Minnesota Center for Psychology, we offer comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents and adults, as well as couples and families. We are committed to providing the best quality care in an environment that fosters integrity, respect, hope, health, and learning. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, work or relationship issues, grief, sadness, body image issues, sleep problems, suicidal thoughts, trauma, low motivation, restlessness, communication issues, post-partum depression or anxiety, LGBT or gender identity issues, life transitions mood swings, shame, anger, parenting or behavioral issues, our highly trained and experienced clinicians can help!
At Minnesota Center for Psychology, we offer comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents and adults, as well as couples and families. We are committed to providing the best quality care in an environment that fosters integrity, respect, hope, health, and learning. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, work or relationship issues, grief, sadness, body image issues, sleep problems, suicidal thoughts, trauma, low motivation, restlessness, communication issues, post-partum depression or anxiety, LGBT or gender identity issues, life transitions mood swings, shame, anger, parenting or behavioral issues, our highly trained and experienced clinicians can help!
(651) 383-4569 View (651) 383-4569
Photo of Paul Strickland, Psychologist in Saint Paul, MN
Paul Strickland
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I have been a licensed psychologist for over twenty years. In addition, I've worked as a career counselor for over thirty. I specialize in the areas of life and work transitions, career development and change, and related challenges. Most people seek counseling around the issue of change. Sometimes it's a desire to discover or move toward a specific or general destination. Or, it can be about dealing with unexpected changes that have occurred and now have to be dealt with. My goal is to respectfully assist the people I work with deal with those changes.
I have been a licensed psychologist for over twenty years. In addition, I've worked as a career counselor for over thirty. I specialize in the areas of life and work transitions, career development and change, and related challenges. Most people seek counseling around the issue of change. Sometimes it's a desire to discover or move toward a specific or general destination. Or, it can be about dealing with unexpected changes that have occurred and now have to be dealt with. My goal is to respectfully assist the people I work with deal with those changes.
(651) 964-6160 View (651) 964-6160
Photo of Kristy Dunham, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Saint Paul, MN
Kristy Dunham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55117
Many people often feel disconnected or experienced a recent loss or change. I enjoy assisting clients in getting to know themselves better. Other times, Brief counseling (8 sessions or less) can be just as rewarding. It depends on what you are looking for, which is not set in stone! Relationships are hard, therapy is the real safe space to dig deep, evaluate, address the not-so-fun things that brings discomfort or that have been avoided. Therapy is a journey. Each experience is valuable in the big picture.
Many people often feel disconnected or experienced a recent loss or change. I enjoy assisting clients in getting to know themselves better. Other times, Brief counseling (8 sessions or less) can be just as rewarding. It depends on what you are looking for, which is not set in stone! Relationships are hard, therapy is the real safe space to dig deep, evaluate, address the not-so-fun things that brings discomfort or that have been avoided. Therapy is a journey. Each experience is valuable in the big picture.
(952) 522-6650 View (952) 522-6650
Photo of Clifford J Buhl, Psychologist in Saint Paul, MN
Clifford J Buhl
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I believe making active focused choices about how to cope with problems and reach your goals pays dividends. Some clients come to therapy to better make peace with their past so as not to continue old patterns. Others are seeking relief from stress and anxiety that the modern world seems to breed. Yet others are working on improving important relationships. Many clients are looking for answers to meaning and purpose that they have not yet resolved in their day-to-day life. What is it that you most want to work on?
I believe making active focused choices about how to cope with problems and reach your goals pays dividends. Some clients come to therapy to better make peace with their past so as not to continue old patterns. Others are seeking relief from stress and anxiety that the modern world seems to breed. Yet others are working on improving important relationships. Many clients are looking for answers to meaning and purpose that they have not yet resolved in their day-to-day life. What is it that you most want to work on?
(651) 372-8944 View (651) 372-8944
Photo of Ruth Brooke Markowitz, Psychologist in Saint Paul, MN
Ruth Brooke Markowitz
Psychologist, MALP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I enjoy working with adults of all sexual orientations who want to heal sexually and intimately.I love working with couples as well as individuals. People who are creative and artistic and enjoy using a variety of therapeutic modalities to heal find me helpful. Anxious, traumatized avoidant, ,depressed and grief stricken people find me to be direct, warm,honest and a good listener. I am integrative in my approach and also believe in homework, practice and mindfulness practice. I believe I am a good fit with people who describe themselves as a bit out of the box.
I enjoy working with adults of all sexual orientations who want to heal sexually and intimately.I love working with couples as well as individuals. People who are creative and artistic and enjoy using a variety of therapeutic modalities to heal find me helpful. Anxious, traumatized avoidant, ,depressed and grief stricken people find me to be direct, warm,honest and a good listener. I am integrative in my approach and also believe in homework, practice and mindfulness practice. I believe I am a good fit with people who describe themselves as a bit out of the box.
(651) 401-8063 View (651) 401-8063
Photo of Tesni Sunne, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Paul, MN
Tesni Sunne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55117
I derive joy and meaning from helping people access their brilliant capacities for healing. My specialties are couples therapy, anxiety/OCD, chronic illness, recovery from relationship abuse, and adjustment through other changes. Each of these concerns involve journeys of re-becoming, and I help clients along these journeys with compassion, honesty, and intelligence. Even in the midst of distress and doubt, the possibilities for the journey hold so much hope.
I derive joy and meaning from helping people access their brilliant capacities for healing. My specialties are couples therapy, anxiety/OCD, chronic illness, recovery from relationship abuse, and adjustment through other changes. Each of these concerns involve journeys of re-becoming, and I help clients along these journeys with compassion, honesty, and intelligence. Even in the midst of distress and doubt, the possibilities for the journey hold so much hope.
(651) 661-2667 View (651) 661-2667
Photo of Anne O'Connor, Licensed Social Worker in Saint Paul, MN
Anne O'Connor
Licensed Social Worker, LGSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104  (Online Only)
I have immediate virtual openings. I work with people individually or relationally who are committed to learning and development. Together, we'll improve communication patterns and relationships skills; deepen or build your purpose and joy for living; create a life that is more in alignment with your desires and values; foster the care and respect you want; consider and support your identity and its full expression; and manage challenges with more skill and confidence. Living intentionally, including being in therapy, isn't always easy. But it's often far more satisfying than repeating our outdated habits.
I have immediate virtual openings. I work with people individually or relationally who are committed to learning and development. Together, we'll improve communication patterns and relationships skills; deepen or build your purpose and joy for living; create a life that is more in alignment with your desires and values; foster the care and respect you want; consider and support your identity and its full expression; and manage challenges with more skill and confidence. Living intentionally, including being in therapy, isn't always easy. But it's often far more satisfying than repeating our outdated habits.
(651) 538-2641 View (651) 538-2641

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Paul, MN

1,000+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in Saint Paul, MN who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
75% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% UCare
68% HealthPartners of MN and WI

How Therapists in Saint Paul, MN see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
20% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Paul?

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.