Online therapy opened up so many options. You're no longer limited to whoever has an office nearby, which matters a lot if you're looking for a therapist who specializes in something specific, like ADHD, queer and trans identity, or poly relationships.
But one question trips a lot of people up: can you see a therapist in a different state? The short answer is yes, as long as they're legally allowed to practice where you are.
Licenses belong to states
In the United States, licenses are granted by state licensing boards, and a full license lets a provider practice in that state. That's why some therapists, including me, hold licenses in more than one state. I'm licensed in Texas, Colorado, and Michigan, so I can work with clients in all three.
Where you are during the session is what counts
Here's the part that surprises people. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, behavioral health professionals must be licensed or legally permitted to practice in the state where the patient is located. A telehealth appointment is considered to take place in the state where the patient is located at the time.
So it isn't about where your therapist lives, or even your home address. It's about where you physically are when the session happens. If you live in Michigan and I'm in Texas, we can meet online because I'm licensed in Michigan. If you're spending a month in a state where I'm not licensed, whether we can keep meeting depends on that state's rules.
What about traveling?
The rules vary. HHS notes that some states have temporary practice laws that let a provider keep seeing a patient for a limited time while the patient visits, and some allow out of state providers to register for telehealth. Other states don't have these options.
If you're planning a trip, a move, or a semester at college in another state, bring it up with your therapist early. Together you can plan around it, whether that means scheduling sessions before and after, pausing briefly, or finding a bridge option.
What is the Counseling Compact?
The Counseling Compact is an agreement among states that lets professional counselors who are licensed in, and live in, a member state practice in other member states without getting a separate license in each one.
It's still rolling out. As of September 2026, the compact is live in nine states: Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wyoming. Many other states are still completing the steps to join. Texas, Colorado, and Michigan aren't among the live states yet, so for now I hold a full license in each.
Questions to ask before booking
Are you licensed in the state where I'll be during our sessions?
What happens if I travel or move?
What's your license number? (You can verify it with that state's licensing board.)
A good therapist will be glad you asked.
Let's talk
If you're located in Texas, Colorado, or Michigan, I'd love to connect. I offer online therapy for anxiety, ADHD, identity, and relationships. See how I work or schedule a free consultation.
