Can I Keep My Therapist if I Move to Another State?
A guide from Bridget Moore, LCSW. General information, not medical advice.
The Short Answer
Sometimes, yes. What matters is where you are physically located during each session and where your therapist is licensed. I can continue meeting with you while you are in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey or Rhode Island. Moving outside those four states calls for a different plan, even if your mailing address has not changed.
Your Location Sets the Rule
I ask where you are at the start of our online appointments. Your current location matters more than the address on your paperwork or the place you consider home. Being away for just one afternoon still matters. My own location does not replace the requirement that you be in a state where I am licensed.
Before You Pack
Tell me about a move as soon as you know it may happen. We can look at your destination, the timing and any temporary stops. You do not need every detail settled before bringing it up. A conversation before moving day gives us room to discuss what continuing care could look like.
Moving Within My Four States
A move from Connecticut to Massachusetts, New Jersey or Rhode Island can allow our sessions to continue online. We still confirm where you are each time. You may want to keep familiar goals while also talking about the new demands of unpacking, meeting people or starting a job. Those changes belong in the conversation.
A Session During the Move
In practice, I would check your location and ask how the change is affecting your week. Perhaps an unfinished task now feels like proof that the whole move was a mistake. We can examine that thought, make a manageable plan and keep working on the concerns that brought you to therapy originally.
I want the session plan settled before moving day adds more to your list.
Bridget Moore, LCSWWhen the Destination Is Elsewhere
If you will be outside my licensed states, let me know before your appointment. We cannot treat an online session as an exception just because we already know each other. We can discuss rescheduling for your return or other care options for a longer move. Contact me when the destination is still uncertain, too.
Information, Not Individual Advice
I wrote this overview to explain my practice, not to give medical advice or describe every therapist's permissions. Ask your own therapist about their licenses and arrangements. If moving is adding worry, isolation or second guessing, that is worth discussing before your schedule fills with boxes and travel plans.
Related Questions
Does My Permanent Address Count?
I need to know where you actually are during the appointment, including a temporary stay with family.
Can We Keep the Same Goals?
I can revisit our existing goals with you and make room for concerns connected to the move.
More to Read
All Guides
Talk About Your Move Before You Go
My Moving for School or Work page explains the therapy side of relocation. Ask me about your destination during a free 15-minute consultation so we can discuss what is possible before you choose an appointment.
Free 15-Minute Consult