Therapists in Boulder, CO

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Photo of Jamie Pledger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Jamie Pledger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that the power of therapy lies in the process – in uncovering histories, identifying patterns, and finding new perspectives. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, and life transitions by increasing insight into those struggles and learning to embrace emotions rather than avoiding or suppressing them. My hope as your therapist is that you'll leave with a strong sense of self and healing, with direction on how to be the person you want to be moving forward.
I believe that the power of therapy lies in the process – in uncovering histories, identifying patterns, and finding new perspectives. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, and life transitions by increasing insight into those struggles and learning to embrace emotions rather than avoiding or suppressing them. My hope as your therapist is that you'll leave with a strong sense of self and healing, with direction on how to be the person you want to be moving forward.
(719) 224-9812 View (719) 224-9812
Photo of Hiroko Hirata, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Boulder, CO
Hiroko Hirata
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305
Hiroko was born and raised in Kyoto, Japan. She provides her services both in fluent Japanese and English. She began her counseling work in 2017 as a palliative care chaplain at Boulder Community Hospital and University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. And her background in providing spiritual care makes her uniquely qualified to provide a therapeutic experience that is wholistic in approach. She immigrated to the US as a young adult, and throughout her time in the states has been exposed to multi-cultural communities. Through these experiences, she learned to value the ability to see through different cultural lenses.
Hiroko was born and raised in Kyoto, Japan. She provides her services both in fluent Japanese and English. She began her counseling work in 2017 as a palliative care chaplain at Boulder Community Hospital and University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. And her background in providing spiritual care makes her uniquely qualified to provide a therapeutic experience that is wholistic in approach. She immigrated to the US as a young adult, and throughout her time in the states has been exposed to multi-cultural communities. Through these experiences, she learned to value the ability to see through different cultural lenses.
(303) 647-9121 View (303) 647-9121
Photo of Annep P Maxwell, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Annep P Maxwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with children,teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I am certified to treat children, adolescents and adults with internet addictions (gaming, social media, compulsive information seeking).
I enjoy working with children,teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, ADD/ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I am certified to treat children, adolescents and adults with internet addictions (gaming, social media, compulsive information seeking).
(720) 868-9092 View (720) 868-9092
Photo of Eva Jahn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Eva Jahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, DiplSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
As an integrative psychotherapist, I have an engaged, relational approach grounded in trauma, attachment, neuroscience, EMDR, mindfulness, social justice, and climate-aware counseling. In working with you I am direct and proactive with the goal to create an environment in which you can become who you truly are. Our work together includes looking at your personal, family and cultural history, and the beliefs you hold about yourself and the world. We also may incorporate your dreams, memories or paying attention to the language expressed in your body.
As an integrative psychotherapist, I have an engaged, relational approach grounded in trauma, attachment, neuroscience, EMDR, mindfulness, social justice, and climate-aware counseling. In working with you I am direct and proactive with the goal to create an environment in which you can become who you truly are. Our work together includes looking at your personal, family and cultural history, and the beliefs you hold about yourself and the world. We also may incorporate your dreams, memories or paying attention to the language expressed in your body.
(970) 680-8184 View (970) 680-8184
Photo of Eve Halpern, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Eve Halpern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
Embarking on the path of healing and self-exploration is an act of daring. Perhaps the search comes from a place of despair or struggle, yet it is through this gateway of pain that we may find greater meaning and self-compassion. In the process, we may make a friend we have always longed for, ourselves. I would be honored to support your journey of self-discovery and change. I work with individuals, both adults and adolescents. I work with LGBTQIA+ and am adept at navigating issues of gender/sexuality. I am also certified to practice Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)​, which can relieve distress and accelerate healing.
Embarking on the path of healing and self-exploration is an act of daring. Perhaps the search comes from a place of despair or struggle, yet it is through this gateway of pain that we may find greater meaning and self-compassion. In the process, we may make a friend we have always longed for, ourselves. I would be honored to support your journey of self-discovery and change. I work with individuals, both adults and adolescents. I work with LGBTQIA+ and am adept at navigating issues of gender/sexuality. I am also certified to practice Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)​, which can relieve distress and accelerate healing.
(720) 897-0970 View (720) 897-0970
Photo of Scott Britan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Scott Britan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, JD, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I am available to help. My specialty is helping individuals as well as couples who are struggling in their life. If you are struggling to save a relationship or a marriage I can help. If you are struggling with your relationship with a child I can help. If you are having trouble deciding the best career path I can help. Call or email me today to schedule a free consultation to see if we are a good fit. My office is in Boulder. I see clients in person as well as online.
I am available to help. My specialty is helping individuals as well as couples who are struggling in their life. If you are struggling to save a relationship or a marriage I can help. If you are struggling with your relationship with a child I can help. If you are having trouble deciding the best career path I can help. Call or email me today to schedule a free consultation to see if we are a good fit. My office is in Boulder. I see clients in person as well as online.
(720) 809-7507 View (720) 809-7507
Photo of Flannery Davis Love, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Flannery Davis Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
As a therapist, I am all about helping you taking the wheel. I'm here to guide you through uncharted waters, but you're the captain of your own ship. Together, we'll navigate the highs and lows, working towards insight and growth. My approach is direct and transparent while being rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that you feel heard, valued, and respected every step of the way.
As a therapist, I am all about helping you taking the wheel. I'm here to guide you through uncharted waters, but you're the captain of your own ship. Together, we'll navigate the highs and lows, working towards insight and growth. My approach is direct and transparent while being rooted in empathy and understanding, ensuring that you feel heard, valued, and respected every step of the way.
(720) 964-1239 View (720) 964-1239
Photo of Virginia Sanford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Virginia Sanford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCHMC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
Being a human in the world is both an inherently beautiful and painful process. Grief, loss and trauma shape the ways that we approach our daily lives, and sometimes the pain that accompanies these experiences becomes more than anyone can manage on their own. We develop coping strategies in an effort to safely navigate the world, and occasionally these coping strategies become problematic or no longer work for us. Change can be hard and it can be scary, but it can also be exciting and fulfilling; my hope is to help create space to access the range of experiences that arise through the therapeutic process.
Being a human in the world is both an inherently beautiful and painful process. Grief, loss and trauma shape the ways that we approach our daily lives, and sometimes the pain that accompanies these experiences becomes more than anyone can manage on their own. We develop coping strategies in an effort to safely navigate the world, and occasionally these coping strategies become problematic or no longer work for us. Change can be hard and it can be scary, but it can also be exciting and fulfilling; my hope is to help create space to access the range of experiences that arise through the therapeutic process.
(720) 702-9603 View (720) 702-9603
Photo of Shawn Perkin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Shawn Perkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80308
Hello and Welcome! My name is Shawn Perkin. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor here in Boulder, Colorado. I have been providing father support here in Boulder County for well over the past decade. Becoming and being a father can be the most rewarding and the most challenging part of our lives. Balancing the requests and demands of our partners, children, employers, society and even ourselves oftentimes leaves us fathers feeling overworked, under appreciated, and even isolated; not knowing which direction to turn and rarely daring to ask for help.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Shawn Perkin. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor here in Boulder, Colorado. I have been providing father support here in Boulder County for well over the past decade. Becoming and being a father can be the most rewarding and the most challenging part of our lives. Balancing the requests and demands of our partners, children, employers, society and even ourselves oftentimes leaves us fathers feeling overworked, under appreciated, and even isolated; not knowing which direction to turn and rarely daring to ask for help.
(720) 897-0339 View (720) 897-0339
Photo of Nikolas H Maslow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Nikolas H Maslow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303  (Online Only)
The process of self-recovery and rebuilding starts with finding someone to hear you, someone who can help put your feelings into words so that you feel less alone, and someone to help you gain self-confidence. For over 21 years, I have helped people in various life transitions discover deep-rooted happiness in their lives.
The process of self-recovery and rebuilding starts with finding someone to hear you, someone who can help put your feelings into words so that you feel less alone, and someone to help you gain self-confidence. For over 21 years, I have helped people in various life transitions discover deep-rooted happiness in their lives.
(719) 356-4858 View (719) 356-4858
Photo of Bridgid Lupetin, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Bridgid Lupetin
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
Hello and welcome! I'm here to compassionately guide you through grief, trauma, and life transitions. Whether facing challenges or seeking support for relationship insecurities, my mission is to facilitate understanding and healing. From career shifts to changes in relationships, I bring expertise to navigate transformations. For couples with connection struggles, I provide support to strengthen your bond. Through a client-centered approach, we'll explore experiences, fostering resiliency, understanding, and renewed security. If you're on a journey to self-compassion and fulfillment, let’s connect.
Hello and welcome! I'm here to compassionately guide you through grief, trauma, and life transitions. Whether facing challenges or seeking support for relationship insecurities, my mission is to facilitate understanding and healing. From career shifts to changes in relationships, I bring expertise to navigate transformations. For couples with connection struggles, I provide support to strengthen your bond. Through a client-centered approach, we'll explore experiences, fostering resiliency, understanding, and renewed security. If you're on a journey to self-compassion and fulfillment, let’s connect.
(720) 740-8720 View (720) 740-8720
Photo of Kelsey Albert, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Boulder, CO
Kelsey Albert
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
Hello and so glad you’ve found your way here. Whether you are seeking help for a specific issue or pondering many of life’s greatest questions, I am here to help. I work with my clients in discovering unconscious patterns and beliefs that hold them back from deep connections with themselves and deep connections with others. Warmth, authenticity, and creativity is important to me. I am sure to bring these aspects to our sessions. It is my goal to assist you on your personal journey to joy and healing while meeting you where you are at.
Hello and so glad you’ve found your way here. Whether you are seeking help for a specific issue or pondering many of life’s greatest questions, I am here to help. I work with my clients in discovering unconscious patterns and beliefs that hold them back from deep connections with themselves and deep connections with others. Warmth, authenticity, and creativity is important to me. I am sure to bring these aspects to our sessions. It is my goal to assist you on your personal journey to joy and healing while meeting you where you are at.
(720) 637-5564 View (720) 637-5564
Photo of Justin Virant, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Justin Virant
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
I enjoy helping clients understand themselves, maybe for the first time. We are presented with so many ideas, thoughts and noise that it can be hard to find our own voice and our own way. I work with clients who are seeking greater self-understanding, connection and empowerment in their lives. I can help you experience more personal clarity and congruence while also experiencing greater richness in life. I've also studied spirituality and have found that it has added more more depth to my life and my work as a therapist; I have experience with Buddhism, the Diamond Approach and shamanism.
I enjoy helping clients understand themselves, maybe for the first time. We are presented with so many ideas, thoughts and noise that it can be hard to find our own voice and our own way. I work with clients who are seeking greater self-understanding, connection and empowerment in their lives. I can help you experience more personal clarity and congruence while also experiencing greater richness in life. I've also studied spirituality and have found that it has added more more depth to my life and my work as a therapist; I have experience with Buddhism, the Diamond Approach and shamanism.
(720) 463-0698 View (720) 463-0698
Photo of Uric C. Geer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Uric C. Geer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Not accepting new clients
Are you looking for change? Trying to undo barriers to change? I'm passionate about helping client's recover from childhood trauma, move beyond substance addiction, find new ways of relating to themselves and the world, and explore their humanness and spiritual selves as they grow towards fulfilling life-long pursuits or desires. My work with clients is direct and compassionate, oriented towards the relational and existential aspects of Life, and also mindfulness-based. Let's look at and move through the barriers preventing your full engagement in Life and its desirable pursuits. Old stories about self need no longer hold you back.
Are you looking for change? Trying to undo barriers to change? I'm passionate about helping client's recover from childhood trauma, move beyond substance addiction, find new ways of relating to themselves and the world, and explore their humanness and spiritual selves as they grow towards fulfilling life-long pursuits or desires. My work with clients is direct and compassionate, oriented towards the relational and existential aspects of Life, and also mindfulness-based. Let's look at and move through the barriers preventing your full engagement in Life and its desirable pursuits. Old stories about self need no longer hold you back.
(720) 707-2293 View (720) 707-2293
Photo of Taylor Spaziani With Connected Roots, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Boulder, CO
Taylor Spaziani With Connected Roots
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, LPCC, MFTC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
My intention is to create a powerful therapeutic relationship between myself and my clients. I know and have witnessed that struggling with sexuality issues can often lead to feelings of shame or embarrassment. I see our sexualities as one of the most diverse and unique parts of ourselves. I believe that difference does not equal disorder, and being "normal" is often not the goal. I am poly/open and kink knowledgeable and have experience in working with non-traditional relationship dynamics, LGBTQIA2+ issues, individuals and couples & families relationship issues.
My intention is to create a powerful therapeutic relationship between myself and my clients. I know and have witnessed that struggling with sexuality issues can often lead to feelings of shame or embarrassment. I see our sexualities as one of the most diverse and unique parts of ourselves. I believe that difference does not equal disorder, and being "normal" is often not the goal. I am poly/open and kink knowledgeable and have experience in working with non-traditional relationship dynamics, LGBTQIA2+ issues, individuals and couples & families relationship issues.
(720) 580-6837 View (720) 580-6837
Photo of Caroline Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Caroline Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Hello and welcome. I’m glad you are here and considering therapy. I believe that all people have the potential to experience freedom and joy. My goal in working with clients is to support them through this process. I engage people from a relational position and bring a contemplative and somatic approach to my work. I incorporate insight-oriented modalities and include elements of transpersonal psychology and somatic experiencing.
Hello and welcome. I’m glad you are here and considering therapy. I believe that all people have the potential to experience freedom and joy. My goal in working with clients is to support them through this process. I engage people from a relational position and bring a contemplative and somatic approach to my work. I incorporate insight-oriented modalities and include elements of transpersonal psychology and somatic experiencing.
(303) 502-9798 View (303) 502-9798
Photo of Genesa Falcao, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Genesa Falcao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
As a licensed psychotherapist certified in the Hakomi method, Relationship & Dating Coaching, NLP, and Medicine Leadership Facilitation, I am committed to guiding my clients on a transformative journey towards healing, self-discovery, and growth. With a holistic approach that integrates somatic based principles from the Hakomi method, Ancient wisdom that draws from Buddhist and other Spiritual practices, and specialized dating and relationship support, I offer a safe and nurturing space for individuals to resolve trauma and evolve limiting beliefs so that they can experience profound personal and relational transformation.
As a licensed psychotherapist certified in the Hakomi method, Relationship & Dating Coaching, NLP, and Medicine Leadership Facilitation, I am committed to guiding my clients on a transformative journey towards healing, self-discovery, and growth. With a holistic approach that integrates somatic based principles from the Hakomi method, Ancient wisdom that draws from Buddhist and other Spiritual practices, and specialized dating and relationship support, I offer a safe and nurturing space for individuals to resolve trauma and evolve limiting beliefs so that they can experience profound personal and relational transformation.
(720) 821-5912 View (720) 821-5912
Photo of Linell Juliet Psychotherapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Boulder, CO
Linell Juliet Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I was given an incredible opportunity in the early 1970's to work in the field of sexual health and psychotherapy. This is all truly my lifetime passion and commitment. After 40+ years of practice, I am so fortunate that I remain always fascinated & passionate by psychology, people & issues uniquely revolving around sexual health. I love movement & supporting my clients' internal power to change. I work with couples as well as individuals, specializing in intimacy & communication skills. I specialize in working with older couples and individuals.
I was given an incredible opportunity in the early 1970's to work in the field of sexual health and psychotherapy. This is all truly my lifetime passion and commitment. After 40+ years of practice, I am so fortunate that I remain always fascinated & passionate by psychology, people & issues uniquely revolving around sexual health. I love movement & supporting my clients' internal power to change. I work with couples as well as individuals, specializing in intimacy & communication skills. I specialize in working with older couples and individuals.
(720) 697-2570 View (720) 697-2570
Photo of Joseph A Toscano, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boulder, CO
Joseph A Toscano
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CACIII, NBCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
With over four decades of experience as an Addiction Specialist, Joseph brings a depth of clinical knowledge and perspective to his counseling practice that is rare. After 15 years of agency work, Joseph went into private practice in 1997. He obtained National Certification as a mental health professional and now combines his expertise with addictive processes with a holistic understanding of how these processes occur within a bigger milieu - often defined through unresolved grief and trauma. He has come to believe, that as human beings, we all have addictive tendencies that can connect us to deeper aspirations and dreams.
With over four decades of experience as an Addiction Specialist, Joseph brings a depth of clinical knowledge and perspective to his counseling practice that is rare. After 15 years of agency work, Joseph went into private practice in 1997. He obtained National Certification as a mental health professional and now combines his expertise with addictive processes with a holistic understanding of how these processes occur within a bigger milieu - often defined through unresolved grief and trauma. He has come to believe, that as human beings, we all have addictive tendencies that can connect us to deeper aspirations and dreams.
(303) 900-7259 View (303) 900-7259
Photo of Jessica Schaffer, Registered Psychotherapist in Boulder, CO
Jessica Schaffer
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I’m a registered psychotherapist, Synergetic Play Therapist, and certified sleep coach. I want to coach you, the caregiver, every step of the way so that you can parent your child with confidence through the process. Through collaboration, your investment will result in a positive and thriving relationship with your children – day and night. No more sleepless nights for you or your child. Through our work, you will learn to interact with your child in a way that will be consistent with your own beliefs and values as to what is important to you and your child.
I’m a registered psychotherapist, Synergetic Play Therapist, and certified sleep coach. I want to coach you, the caregiver, every step of the way so that you can parent your child with confidence through the process. Through collaboration, your investment will result in a positive and thriving relationship with your children – day and night. No more sleepless nights for you or your child. Through our work, you will learn to interact with your child in a way that will be consistent with your own beliefs and values as to what is important to you and your child.
(720) 674-9272 View (720) 674-9272

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Boulder, CO

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Boulder, CO who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
76% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
70% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Aetna
61% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Boulder, CO see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Boulder?

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.