How do I know if an online therapist is licensed and legit?

To verify if an online therapist is licensed and legitimate, you must check their state licensing board website using their name or license number to confirm they hold an active license with no disciplinary history [1][2].

Step-by-Step Verification Guide

1. Identify Their License Type and State

   • Look for their license abbreviation after their name (e.g., LPC, LCSW, PhD, LMFT) on their website or profile [1][2].
   • Confirm the state where they are licensed (therapists must be licensed in the state where you reside) [2].

2. Search the State Licensing Board

   • Visit your state’s licensing board website (you can find state-by-state links at Open Counseling’s state guide) [1][2].
   • Use the board’s online license search tool, entering the therapist’s name or license number [1][2].
   • What to look for:
     • Status: Ensure it is listed as "Active" (not suspended, revoked, expired, or inactive) [1][3].
     • Disciplinary History: Check for any "disciplinary actions" or reports indicating ethical violations [1][2][3].

3. Verify Additional Credentials (If Applicable)

   • If they claim national certification (e.g., NCC for counselors), verify it through the NBCC Counselor Verify directory [6].
   • For psychologists, check the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) or state board records [4].

4. Red Flags to Rule Out a Therapist Immediately

   • No license or a suspended/revoked license [1].
   • A history of major licensure violations [1].
   • They cannot provide a license number upon request [7].
   • They claim to be licensed in a state where they do not practice or where you do not reside [2].

Recommended Brands and Services for Finding Legitimate Therapists

If you are looking for a therapist to start with, consider using these platforms that verify licenses before listing providers:

• Psychology Today: Their therapist directory allows you to filter by license type and location, and they encourage providers to list their credentials clearly [1].
• GoodRx Mental Health: Offers a verified directory of therapists where you can check licenses directly through their integration with state boards [2].
• Talkspace or BetterHelp: These telehealth platforms state that they employ licensed therapists and require credential verification for all providers, though you should still confirm their specific therapist's license via the state board [1].

Always perform a final state board check on the specific therapist you plan to see, as platform guarantees can vary [1][2].