Therapists in Palm Bay, FL

Photo of New Way Counseling Nwcs - New Way Counseling Services, Inc., LMHC, CAP, NBCC, Counselor
New Way Counseling Services, Inc.
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, NBCC
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32905
We are positive thinking, forward moving team and we believe one should never give up hope. This is our philosophy and we practice what we preach. It is proven fact that once a person starts to think positive and push a little harder, things start to happen. So please never give up. If you are finding it hard to make things work and bring about a positive change in your life, we can give you some tools to turn things around.
We are positive thinking, forward moving team and we believe one should never give up hope. This is our philosophy and we practice what we preach. It is proven fact that once a person starts to think positive and push a little harder, things start to happen. So please never give up. If you are finding it hard to make things work and bring about a positive change in your life, we can give you some tools to turn things around.
(321) 418-3932 View (321) 418-3932
Photo of Jean Dievendorf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Dievendorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32909  (Online Only)
Do you have unwanted thoughts, poor concentration, panicky feelings, or an uncontrollable worry? Do you feel unmotivated or hopeless, experience excessive nervousness, and be aware of low self-worth, negative self-talk, or low self-esteem? Life got you down, have no pleasure in activities that once brought excitement, feelings of guilt, are you isolating yourself, having difficulty concentrating? Do you have difficulties overcoming stress or a fear of traumatic events that impact sleep, daily performance, or activities? Are you seeking support to create a new and more positive path in life? We’re here to help!
Do you have unwanted thoughts, poor concentration, panicky feelings, or an uncontrollable worry? Do you feel unmotivated or hopeless, experience excessive nervousness, and be aware of low self-worth, negative self-talk, or low self-esteem? Life got you down, have no pleasure in activities that once brought excitement, feelings of guilt, are you isolating yourself, having difficulty concentrating? Do you have difficulties overcoming stress or a fear of traumatic events that impact sleep, daily performance, or activities? Are you seeking support to create a new and more positive path in life? We’re here to help!
(321) 415-8431 View (321) 415-8431
Photo of Scott Harcourt - Blue Cat Neuropsychology & Intervention, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Blue Cat Neuropsychology & Intervention, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32905
How can we help you today? At Blue Cat Neuropsychology & Intervention, we offer psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluation, psychoeducational assessment, academic remediation, and cognitive rehabilitation. People come here because they are having problems in school; changes in thinking, memory, attention, or emotion (often related to epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cancer post-treatment, brain injury or concussions, or early developmental or autism spectrum issues); or, they wonder about ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder. We help identify what is happening and what can be done to improve the situation.
How can we help you today? At Blue Cat Neuropsychology & Intervention, we offer psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluation, psychoeducational assessment, academic remediation, and cognitive rehabilitation. People come here because they are having problems in school; changes in thinking, memory, attention, or emotion (often related to epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cancer post-treatment, brain injury or concussions, or early developmental or autism spectrum issues); or, they wonder about ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder. We help identify what is happening and what can be done to improve the situation.
(321) 209-2525 x1 View (321) 209-2525 x1
Photo of Tamara D Harris, LCSW , QS CSW, MSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara D Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , QS CSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32905
If you are reading this, you have already taken the necessary steps to foster change. Are you having difficulty adjusting to life-changing situations (i.e. divorce, break-up, death of a loved one, or a recent move to a new location)? Frustrated with life, have low self-esteem or lack coping skills? Are you feeling like you have nowhere to turn, or unsure of what to do and who to call? Life can be difficult and it is beneficial to have access to someone who is able to navigate those circumstances that may come your way.
If you are reading this, you have already taken the necessary steps to foster change. Are you having difficulty adjusting to life-changing situations (i.e. divorce, break-up, death of a loved one, or a recent move to a new location)? Frustrated with life, have low self-esteem or lack coping skills? Are you feeling like you have nowhere to turn, or unsure of what to do and who to call? Life can be difficult and it is beneficial to have access to someone who is able to navigate those circumstances that may come your way.
(321) 323-7054 View (321) 323-7054
Photo of Katherine Fernandez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32907  (Online Only)
Working with me is more than just getting the help you need, it is about making an investment in the most important person in your life—YOU. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Empowerment therapist passionate about helping women, like you, step into your confidence, inner strength, and the happiness I know you're capable of achieving. Don't you think it's time for you to let go of the low self-esteem, fear, doubt, and hesitation holding you back from actually being able to enjoy life? (If you're still reading it means there's even the slightest part of you that has hope)
Working with me is more than just getting the help you need, it is about making an investment in the most important person in your life—YOU. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Empowerment therapist passionate about helping women, like you, step into your confidence, inner strength, and the happiness I know you're capable of achieving. Don't you think it's time for you to let go of the low self-esteem, fear, doubt, and hesitation holding you back from actually being able to enjoy life? (If you're still reading it means there's even the slightest part of you that has hope)
(321) 248-1925 View (321) 248-1925
Photo of Dr. Sharmaine Wilder, PhD, LMHC
Dr. Sharmaine Wilder
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32905  (Online Only)
Has life left you feeling lifeless? Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused and don't know where to go or what to do? We understand. Here at Healing Hearts Counseling Services, we are able to help support you through various life stages and transitions. In a world of confusion, disappointments, and despair, it's good to know there's somewhere to turn to for help and care. We will help provide you with the necessary tools and resources needed to thrive and enjoy a meaningful life.
Has life left you feeling lifeless? Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused and don't know where to go or what to do? We understand. Here at Healing Hearts Counseling Services, we are able to help support you through various life stages and transitions. In a world of confusion, disappointments, and despair, it's good to know there's somewhere to turn to for help and care. We will help provide you with the necessary tools and resources needed to thrive and enjoy a meaningful life.
(772) 272-0504 View (772) 272-0504
Photo of Michael James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32906  (Online Only)
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
(305) 780-6064 View (305) 780-6064
Photo of Tracy Taylor, LCSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32907  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. My approach to counseling is to provide the assistance needed to make you proficient in governing your life and identifying your strengths. Are you ready to begin your journey to mental clarity and wellness? Would you like to experience peace within yourself and your relationships? Are you ready to feel empowered and focus on creating your best self? Let's talk about it. There are no situations or dilemmas too minuscule or immeasurable that cannot be discussed.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. My approach to counseling is to provide the assistance needed to make you proficient in governing your life and identifying your strengths. Are you ready to begin your journey to mental clarity and wellness? Would you like to experience peace within yourself and your relationships? Are you ready to feel empowered and focus on creating your best self? Let's talk about it. There are no situations or dilemmas too minuscule or immeasurable that cannot be discussed.
(772) 222-6824 View (772) 222-6824
Photo of Yolanda Ortiz - Our House, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Our House
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32905
Most of us are nervous to take that first step in getting the support we need. Maybe we are not even 100 percent sure we "need therapy." We just need someone to talk with and help us sort things out; help to get Unstuck. Our House can help. We just may be that first step you are looking for.
Most of us are nervous to take that first step in getting the support we need. Maybe we are not even 100 percent sure we "need therapy." We just need someone to talk with and help us sort things out; help to get Unstuck. Our House can help. We just may be that first step you are looking for.
(321) 379-5817 View (321) 379-5817
Photo of Edgar N. Arbaje, PsyD, Psychologist
Edgar N. Arbaje
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32905
My interest in evaluations, especially psychoeducational evaluations, stemmed from the time I was a grad student. I evaluated a child with suspected learning disabilities and provided feedback to his parents. To my surprise, the parents brought their son back to the clinic for a re-evaluation by the time I was an intern. The difference in how they presented between the first and second intakes was night and day. As evaluators, we almost never receive feedback about how our evaluations positively impacted our clients’ lives. In the rare events we do hear back from them, it fills us with great satisfaction. This is what motivates me.
My interest in evaluations, especially psychoeducational evaluations, stemmed from the time I was a grad student. I evaluated a child with suspected learning disabilities and provided feedback to his parents. To my surprise, the parents brought their son back to the clinic for a re-evaluation by the time I was an intern. The difference in how they presented between the first and second intakes was night and day. As evaluators, we almost never receive feedback about how our evaluations positively impacted our clients’ lives. In the rare events we do hear back from them, it fills us with great satisfaction. This is what motivates me.
(305) 614-9512 View (305) 614-9512
Photo of Craig Silverman, LCPC , Counselor
Craig Silverman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32905
Are you just tired of trying to do life right? Nothing seems to be working? I am a liscensed Temperament Therapy Christian Counselor that will help you to get to the root of what is bothering you, or find the missing puzzle piece that you have been looking for. I offer a good ear and years of advice on how to look at your problems from a new perspective. Let the healing begin today.
Are you just tired of trying to do life right? Nothing seems to be working? I am a liscensed Temperament Therapy Christian Counselor that will help you to get to the root of what is bothering you, or find the missing puzzle piece that you have been looking for. I offer a good ear and years of advice on how to look at your problems from a new perspective. Let the healing begin today.
(321) 587-3701 View (321) 587-3701
Photo of Jacqueline Maple, LMHC, MCAP, QS, Counselor
Jacqueline Maple
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32909  (Online Only)
Do you feel different, misunderstood, judged, embarrassed and or ashamed? Do you know how to create and enforce healthy relationships/healthy boundaries? Do you engage in negative self talk and have self esteem issues? Are you struggling with relationships at home and or at work? Are you or is someone you care for abusing substances? Together we will explore the way you make sense of the world and how your thoughts impact your feelings and behaviors. With a deeper understanding of yourself we will work on forgiveness, acceptance and making positive changes.
Do you feel different, misunderstood, judged, embarrassed and or ashamed? Do you know how to create and enforce healthy relationships/healthy boundaries? Do you engage in negative self talk and have self esteem issues? Are you struggling with relationships at home and or at work? Are you or is someone you care for abusing substances? Together we will explore the way you make sense of the world and how your thoughts impact your feelings and behaviors. With a deeper understanding of yourself we will work on forgiveness, acceptance and making positive changes.
(321) 204-2832 View (321) 204-2832
Photo of Kimberly (Fischer) Leslie, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly (Fischer) Leslie
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32907
I use clinical psychological training shaped by Biblical principles. It is my responsibility to stay abreast of the latest advances of psychology while simultaneously declaring my convictions about the irrefutable truths of sin and forgiveness. I offer a place where you are received with sensitivity and compassion while you are invited to engage in a sincere and genuine relationship me. It is within the context of this confidential relationship that I will join with you as you take the opportunity to wrestle with the hard questions, explore their implications and discover there is hope.
I use clinical psychological training shaped by Biblical principles. It is my responsibility to stay abreast of the latest advances of psychology while simultaneously declaring my convictions about the irrefutable truths of sin and forgiveness. I offer a place where you are received with sensitivity and compassion while you are invited to engage in a sincere and genuine relationship me. It is within the context of this confidential relationship that I will join with you as you take the opportunity to wrestle with the hard questions, explore their implications and discover there is hope.
(321) 510-6072 View (321) 510-6072
Photo of Shangri-La Torres, MSW
Shangri-La Torres
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32911  (Online Only)
With over two decades of Behavioral Health expertise, you are in good hands. As a well rounded practitioner providing therapeutic interventions to both adults and children I aim for excellence. My 25 years of unconventional interventions yield fruitful outcomes.
With over two decades of Behavioral Health expertise, you are in good hands. As a well rounded practitioner providing therapeutic interventions to both adults and children I aim for excellence. My 25 years of unconventional interventions yield fruitful outcomes.
(321) 248-1615 View (321) 248-1615
Photo of Laurie Carter, PhD, LMHC, LPC, CAADC, Counselor
Laurie Carter
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32909  (Online Only)
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients for telehealth sessions. I currently work with adults, adolescents, preteens, and partners who want to embark on a journey of self-exploration, improve mood and behavior regulation, recover from substance misuse, increase self-worth and coping skills, and heal from trauma. I currently use the following therapeutic modalities: cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT - informed individual therapy and skills development, motivational interviewing, substance use disorder treatment, supportive and solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, bibliotherapy, and narrative therapy.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients for telehealth sessions. I currently work with adults, adolescents, preteens, and partners who want to embark on a journey of self-exploration, improve mood and behavior regulation, recover from substance misuse, increase self-worth and coping skills, and heal from trauma. I currently use the following therapeutic modalities: cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT - informed individual therapy and skills development, motivational interviewing, substance use disorder treatment, supportive and solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, bibliotherapy, and narrative therapy.
(321) 221-5820 View (321) 221-5820
Photo of Kristen Dempsey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Dempsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32905
If you’re reading this, things probably aren’t going exactly the way you planned. Sometimes life is a struggle and bad things can happen to good people. Whether the issue is a result of a current stressor or past event I will provide you with a genuine, compassionate, and comfortable environment to process your experiences in.
If you’re reading this, things probably aren’t going exactly the way you planned. Sometimes life is a struggle and bad things can happen to good people. Whether the issue is a result of a current stressor or past event I will provide you with a genuine, compassionate, and comfortable environment to process your experiences in.
(321) 517-2101 View (321) 517-2101
Photo of Michelle Higgins, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Higgins
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32909  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy helping those wishing to gain a greater sense of trust with themselves, and to have healthier relationships, improved self expression and awareness, as well as those wanting to experience decreased anger, guilt or insecurity, and overall improved mental health. I am skilled with working with those who have concerns of depression, anxiety, poor self esteem, and trauma, such as those with abuse histories or domestic violence. I enjoy helping to be a part of the process that can improve another person's quality of life, satisfaction and a sense of purpose and empowerment.
I enjoy helping those wishing to gain a greater sense of trust with themselves, and to have healthier relationships, improved self expression and awareness, as well as those wanting to experience decreased anger, guilt or insecurity, and overall improved mental health. I am skilled with working with those who have concerns of depression, anxiety, poor self esteem, and trauma, such as those with abuse histories or domestic violence. I enjoy helping to be a part of the process that can improve another person's quality of life, satisfaction and a sense of purpose and empowerment.
(321) 617-1199 View (321) 617-1199
Photo of Alyssa Koch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Koch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32907
Hello! I'm Alyssa Koch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW. I am dedicated to helping clients develop the skills needed to reach their goals. I use an empowering, supportive, and collaborative approach in therapy. With over 15 years of experience in the treatment of substance dependency, I am well-versed in working with dually diagnosed individuals. I am passionate about my work with individuals on a journey to deeper self-discovery and satisfaction with life.
Hello! I'm Alyssa Koch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW. I am dedicated to helping clients develop the skills needed to reach their goals. I use an empowering, supportive, and collaborative approach in therapy. With over 15 years of experience in the treatment of substance dependency, I am well-versed in working with dually diagnosed individuals. I am passionate about my work with individuals on a journey to deeper self-discovery and satisfaction with life.
(321) 413-8092 View (321) 413-8092
Photo of Stephanie Lewis-Myers, LCSW, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Lewis-Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32907  (Online Only)
I offer down-to-earth online therapy in FL for anxious creatives, healers, witchy types and LGBTQ+ folx who struggle with self-doubt to help them discover their magic and live more authentically. Is perfectionism is holding you back from taking that next step? Needing to set better boundaries but feeling like its a lost cause? Overthinking leaving you feeling burnt out and over it? Wouldn’t it be nice if all those critical voices could chill out and give you some peace? Regardless of how self-doubt is showing up in your day to day, we can work together to find your strengths, trust your intuition, and recognize your unique gifts.
I offer down-to-earth online therapy in FL for anxious creatives, healers, witchy types and LGBTQ+ folx who struggle with self-doubt to help them discover their magic and live more authentically. Is perfectionism is holding you back from taking that next step? Needing to set better boundaries but feeling like its a lost cause? Overthinking leaving you feeling burnt out and over it? Wouldn’t it be nice if all those critical voices could chill out and give you some peace? Regardless of how self-doubt is showing up in your day to day, we can work together to find your strengths, trust your intuition, and recognize your unique gifts.
(321) 340-6741 View (321) 340-6741
Photo of Yoany Lopez Hernandez, LMHC, Counselor
Yoany Lopez Hernandez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Bay, FL 32907
Hello, I am Yoany Lopez-Hernandez, LMHC. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about life. I am here to support my clients through rough times and overcome trauma related issues focusing in healing and building self-love and self-confidence. I've been working with people that experienced trauma (ex. Sexual, Physical and/or psychological abuse during childhood, placed in foster homes, homeless, not feeling heard or validated, divorce, grieving, etc.). I've been focusing on identifying symptoms and helping them to deal with trauma related issues, while learning and practicing healthy and adaptive coping skills.
Hello, I am Yoany Lopez-Hernandez, LMHC. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about life. I am here to support my clients through rough times and overcome trauma related issues focusing in healing and building self-love and self-confidence. I've been working with people that experienced trauma (ex. Sexual, Physical and/or psychological abuse during childhood, placed in foster homes, homeless, not feeling heard or validated, divorce, grieving, etc.). I've been focusing on identifying symptoms and helping them to deal with trauma related issues, while learning and practicing healthy and adaptive coping skills.
(407) 890-0932 View (407) 890-0932
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Palm Bay, FL

90+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Palm Bay, FL who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Depression
78% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
73% Grief
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
76% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Palm Bay, FL see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Palm Bay?

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.