Therapists in 17512

Photo of Laura Chandler - Eagles Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Eagles Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Columbia, PA 17512
I am Laura Chandler. I am the owner of Eagles Counseling. Eagles Counseling specializes in adults, children, and couples. Eagles Counseling specializes in ADHD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, OCD, ODD, trauma, and PTSD. We offer CBT, DBT, EMDR, and IFS. At Eagles Counseling we focus on the quality of care. We try to meet you where you are at in a safe and secure environment..
I am Laura Chandler. I am the owner of Eagles Counseling. Eagles Counseling specializes in adults, children, and couples. Eagles Counseling specializes in ADHD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, OCD, ODD, trauma, and PTSD. We offer CBT, DBT, EMDR, and IFS. At Eagles Counseling we focus on the quality of care. We try to meet you where you are at in a safe and secure environment..
(860) 467-8371 View (860) 467-8371
Photo of Charlene Eshleman - Behavioral Healthcare Corporation, MD, ATR, MEd, LPC, LCSW
Behavioral Healthcare Corporation
Verified Verified
Columbia, PA 17512
Our mission: Mental health for all we serve. Our passion: Helping you achieve mental health. Life can be hard. We all have challenges. We all experience loss, stress, grief and, at some point, all of us feel overwhelmed. The team at Behavioral Healthcare Corporation has been helping people just like you deal with life's issues and restore their mental health since 2002.
Our mission: Mental health for all we serve. Our passion: Helping you achieve mental health. Life can be hard. We all have challenges. We all experience loss, stress, grief and, at some point, all of us feel overwhelmed. The team at Behavioral Healthcare Corporation has been helping people just like you deal with life's issues and restore their mental health since 2002.
(717) 502-4771 View (717) 502-4771
Photo of Matt May, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, PhD, ABD, LPC
Matt May
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, PhD, ABD, LPC
Serves Area
I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and/or families in individual, family, and group settings. I have previously worked as a regional supervisor of an intensive therapy program troubled youth and truancy program. My goal is to improve behavioral problems, mental/emotional difficulties, and overall functionality. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as in Motivational Interviewing. I chose to become a mental health professional, because I felt called to help others improve to become the best person possible.
I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and/or families in individual, family, and group settings. I have previously worked as a regional supervisor of an intensive therapy program troubled youth and truancy program. My goal is to improve behavioral problems, mental/emotional difficulties, and overall functionality. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as in Motivational Interviewing. I chose to become a mental health professional, because I felt called to help others improve to become the best person possible.
(717) 912-9604 View (717) 912-9604
Photo of Sue Tushingham, MS
Sue Tushingham
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Over my 35 years of experience, I have seen that when clients reach out for therapy, it is a sign of strength and a willingness to change. I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself, and help each client learn a new skill set that enables them to grow through life's challenges. I provide a non-judgmental and calming environment, with a focus on mindfulness. A holistic approach is used, which recognizes the importance of addressing body, mind, emotions, and spirit in order to achieve and maintain health. I am a safe, neutral sounding board for clients, which allows them to learn, grow, and heal.
Over my 35 years of experience, I have seen that when clients reach out for therapy, it is a sign of strength and a willingness to change. I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself, and help each client learn a new skill set that enables them to grow through life's challenges. I provide a non-judgmental and calming environment, with a focus on mindfulness. A holistic approach is used, which recognizes the importance of addressing body, mind, emotions, and spirit in order to achieve and maintain health. I am a safe, neutral sounding board for clients, which allows them to learn, grow, and heal.
(717) 366-7918 View (717) 366-7918
Photo of Cristina Paden, Counselor, MS, LAPC
Cristina Paden
Counselor, MS, LAPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life doesn’t always go the way we hoped — and when anxiety, stress, self-doubt, or painful experiences pile up, it’s easy to feel stuck, isolated, or unsure of what to do next. Maybe you're trying to hold it all together, but underneath, you're exhausted. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I offer a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, get honest, and explore what’s really going on — without any judgment or pressure.
Life doesn’t always go the way we hoped — and when anxiety, stress, self-doubt, or painful experiences pile up, it’s easy to feel stuck, isolated, or unsure of what to do next. Maybe you're trying to hold it all together, but underneath, you're exhausted. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I offer a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, get honest, and explore what’s really going on — without any judgment or pressure.
(223) 218-4625 View (223) 218-4625
Photo of Stephen Michael Schuch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Stephen Michael Schuch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Online Only
With over 30 years of clinical practice, extensive continuing education, and an emphasis on what works rather than on what’s wrong, I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual, couple, family, and group for whom I provide service. Using proven methods, I am able to offer, among others, supportive, interactional, brief problem-solving, cognitive-behavioral, including trauma focused cognitive-behavioral, and relational psychotherapies. Common themes among my clients are concerns related to relationship difficulties, bereavement, mood disorders including depression, anxiety, childhood behavioral problems, eating disorders, compulsive and additive behaviors, and difficulties related to specific life circumstances.
With over 30 years of clinical practice, extensive continuing education, and an emphasis on what works rather than on what’s wrong, I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual, couple, family, and group for whom I provide service. Using proven methods, I am able to offer, among others, supportive, interactional, brief problem-solving, cognitive-behavioral, including trauma focused cognitive-behavioral, and relational psychotherapies. Common themes among my clients are concerns related to relationship difficulties, bereavement, mood disorders including depression, anxiety, childhood behavioral problems, eating disorders, compulsive and additive behaviors, and difficulties related to specific life circumstances.
(717) 229-7295 View (717) 229-7295
Photo of Michael C Peachey, Pre-Licensed Professional, MAMFT
Michael C Peachey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAMFT
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Hello! My name is Michael Peachey, MAMFT and I am the founder of Shalom Counseling. Though I am trained to see a wide range of clients, I specialize in marriage and couples therapy as well as family therapy. I am excited to get to know you, and to work with you to come up with the best plan to tackle whatever problems you are facing in life! I do not specialize in simply "giving advice", rather I want to walk with you as you look at issues in your life so that there can be healing and wholeness.
Hello! My name is Michael Peachey, MAMFT and I am the founder of Shalom Counseling. Though I am trained to see a wide range of clients, I specialize in marriage and couples therapy as well as family therapy. I am excited to get to know you, and to work with you to come up with the best plan to tackle whatever problems you are facing in life! I do not specialize in simply "giving advice", rather I want to walk with you as you look at issues in your life so that there can be healing and wholeness.
(717) 259-2497 View (717) 259-2497
Photo of Lisa Layne, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lisa Layne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Saturday & Early Morning Availability! Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Pennsylvania and Virginia. I completed a B.A. in Psychology at Temple University before attending PennWest Edinboro where I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Additionally, I completed an M.A. in Counseling at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. I have spent the last 10 years specializing in parent-child attachment and relationship building.
Saturday & Early Morning Availability! Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Pennsylvania and Virginia. I completed a B.A. in Psychology at Temple University before attending PennWest Edinboro where I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Additionally, I completed an M.A. in Counseling at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. I have spent the last 10 years specializing in parent-child attachment and relationship building.
(717) 282-9346 View (717) 282-9346
Photo of Natalie Rebman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Natalie Rebman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
With over 25 years of experience in mental health care, I bring a deep and compassionate understanding to the therapeutic space. My work has spanned outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings, allowing me to support individuals and families across a wide range of challenges and life stages. I work with individuals 16 and older and families who are seeking meaningful support through life’s challenges. Whether you're processing trauma, developing coping strategies, focusing on personal growth, or caring for someone who’s struggling, I provide a collaborative and compassionate space to help you move forward.
With over 25 years of experience in mental health care, I bring a deep and compassionate understanding to the therapeutic space. My work has spanned outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings, allowing me to support individuals and families across a wide range of challenges and life stages. I work with individuals 16 and older and families who are seeking meaningful support through life’s challenges. Whether you're processing trauma, developing coping strategies, focusing on personal growth, or caring for someone who’s struggling, I provide a collaborative and compassionate space to help you move forward.
(717) 913-4681 View (717) 913-4681
Photo of Patience Buckwalter, Counselor, LSW
Patience Buckwalter
Counselor, LSW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dealing with our mental health can be a challenging experience for many of us. It is sometimes helpful to have someone available to offer support and guidance to help create a plan that works for you and to get your wonderful self back! The goal is to have you be able to have control of your life again and feel happy, motivated and at peace! As your counselor I will help you process your own personal journey!
Dealing with our mental health can be a challenging experience for many of us. It is sometimes helpful to have someone available to offer support and guidance to help create a plan that works for you and to get your wonderful self back! The goal is to have you be able to have control of your life again and feel happy, motivated and at peace! As your counselor I will help you process your own personal journey!
(717) 229-9641 View (717) 229-9641

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nakeesha M Kenney-Futrell - Elevated Mental Health Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Elevated Mental Health Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Steelton, PA 17113
We are dedicated to thoughtfully serving your unmet mental health needs. We help disrupt any fears or stigmas in seeking care. Ignoring ones MH needs can lead to many unfortunate and unnecessary issues related to employment, relationships, and general uncertainty about your future. Whether you’re a parent dealing with stress from a child's behavior, someone struggling with anxiety or depression, or you’ve recently suffered a loss, we are prepared to support you. We welcome clients who have the desire to be "Elevated". That means you want to move forward eliminate problems/negative behaviors, and be Free from the weight of stress.
We are dedicated to thoughtfully serving your unmet mental health needs. We help disrupt any fears or stigmas in seeking care. Ignoring ones MH needs can lead to many unfortunate and unnecessary issues related to employment, relationships, and general uncertainty about your future. Whether you’re a parent dealing with stress from a child's behavior, someone struggling with anxiety or depression, or you’ve recently suffered a loss, we are prepared to support you. We welcome clients who have the desire to be "Elevated". That means you want to move forward eliminate problems/negative behaviors, and be Free from the weight of stress.
(717) 229-0450 View (717) 229-0450
Photo of Maria DeGaetano - One Eighty Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
One Eighty Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, alone, or confused? The life you envisioned for yourself did not look like this. You carry such shame and guilt even over the smallest things. You have been struggling with these thoughts and feelings for quite some time. You know deep down that you want to feel better but don’t know where to start.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, alone, or confused? The life you envisioned for yourself did not look like this. You carry such shame and guilt even over the smallest things. You have been struggling with these thoughts and feelings for quite some time. You know deep down that you want to feel better but don’t know where to start.
(223) 332-5123 View (223) 332-5123
Photo of Emily J Alvarez, Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, ATR-BC, LPC
Emily J Alvarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, ATR-BC, LPC
6 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Your true healing, growth, authentic self, and full potential lie beyond four walls of a clinician's office. It takes courage to start the therapeutic process. If you are looking for a holistic, creative way to improve your mental health, I can support and guide you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you've had many years of experience, if you're ready for real personal change, a new approach, and want to delve deeply into the therapeutic process, I'm here to guide you.
Your true healing, growth, authentic self, and full potential lie beyond four walls of a clinician's office. It takes courage to start the therapeutic process. If you are looking for a holistic, creative way to improve your mental health, I can support and guide you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you've had many years of experience, if you're ready for real personal change, a new approach, and want to delve deeply into the therapeutic process, I'm here to guide you.
(717) 696-0146 View (717) 696-0146
Photo of Melanie Kopano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melanie Kopano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jonestown, PA 17038
Welcome! My name is Melanie Kopano. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Pennsylvania. I received my Master's Degree from West Chester University, and I've been a therapist for the past 20 years. I'm a Christian and a counselor, and I love seeing how Biblical truths and clinical methodology work hand in hand to effect meaningful change. That said, I've worked with people in all seasons of life and from many different backgrounds in both secular and faith-based settings. I take great joy in seeing my clients find the direction, freedom, and/or healing they're seeking.
Welcome! My name is Melanie Kopano. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Pennsylvania. I received my Master's Degree from West Chester University, and I've been a therapist for the past 20 years. I'm a Christian and a counselor, and I love seeing how Biblical truths and clinical methodology work hand in hand to effect meaningful change. That said, I've worked with people in all seasons of life and from many different backgrounds in both secular and faith-based settings. I take great joy in seeing my clients find the direction, freedom, and/or healing they're seeking.
(717) 807-7194 View (717) 807-7194
Photo of Leanne Abugov-Schaller, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Leanne Abugov-Schaller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lancaster, PA 17601
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or a loss of a sense of yourself that effects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, or career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or lost trying to get through daily activities? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or a loss of a sense of yourself that effects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, or career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or lost trying to get through daily activities? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
(717) 993-1963 View (717) 993-1963
Photo of Randy Reimold, LCSW
Randy Reimold
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
Is your life lacking the Peace, Joy, and Love that is promised in Scripture? Are your strategies to find them not working, or worse, causing even more problems? Emotional distress and relational difficulties are a normal part of life... we won't get away from them completely in this lifetime. But are your strategies to avoid them not working, or worse, causing even more problems?
Is your life lacking the Peace, Joy, and Love that is promised in Scripture? Are your strategies to find them not working, or worse, causing even more problems? Emotional distress and relational difficulties are a normal part of life... we won't get away from them completely in this lifetime. But are your strategies to avoid them not working, or worse, causing even more problems?
(717) 987-6430 View (717) 987-6430
Photo of Katherine Lewis, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAPC
Katherine Lewis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAPC
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the important step to focus on your self-care. Throughout my journey, I have been guided by a calming presence that creates a safe and welcoming space for individuals to share their innermost thoughts and emotions. This calm energy fosters an environment of trust and compassion, where vulnerability is met with understanding, and self-discovery is nurtured. It is within this space that healing and growth begin.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the important step to focus on your self-care. Throughout my journey, I have been guided by a calming presence that creates a safe and welcoming space for individuals to share their innermost thoughts and emotions. This calm energy fosters an environment of trust and compassion, where vulnerability is met with understanding, and self-discovery is nurtured. It is within this space that healing and growth begin.
(717) 369-8661 View (717) 369-8661
Photo of Dr. Matthew Evan Sprong - Empathic Empowerment Counseling, Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC
Empathic Empowerment Counseling
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC
4 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life’s challenges, whether those are stress from work, difficulties in relationships, adjusting to disability, or navigating major life transitions. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward, I will create a safe, supportive space where you can openly process emotions, gain new coping strategies, and develop a clearer sense of direction!
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life’s challenges, whether those are stress from work, difficulties in relationships, adjusting to disability, or navigating major life transitions. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to move forward, I will create a safe, supportive space where you can openly process emotions, gain new coping strategies, and develop a clearer sense of direction!
(217) 393-8942 View (217) 393-8942
Photo of Alexandria L Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, KAP-C
Alexandria L Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, KAP-C
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Welcome to RHS, I hold a Master of Social Work Degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. I specialize in Sex and Relationship Therapy, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, and a wide variety of mindfulness-based holistic clinical approaches. I am currently being supervised by Jodi Silverman LCSW, Dr. Estefanía Simich Muñoz, PhD, LCPC, CST, CST-S, and Patricia Rich LCSW, CST-S, CST. I work with women, men, 2SLGBTQ+, survivors of abuse, folks with HIV/AIDS, in the Kink/BDSM lifestyle, folks struggling with sexual function issues, and those in relationships struggling to build intimacy.
Welcome to RHS, I hold a Master of Social Work Degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. I specialize in Sex and Relationship Therapy, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, and a wide variety of mindfulness-based holistic clinical approaches. I am currently being supervised by Jodi Silverman LCSW, Dr. Estefanía Simich Muñoz, PhD, LCPC, CST, CST-S, and Patricia Rich LCSW, CST-S, CST. I work with women, men, 2SLGBTQ+, survivors of abuse, folks with HIV/AIDS, in the Kink/BDSM lifestyle, folks struggling with sexual function issues, and those in relationships struggling to build intimacy.
(717) 970-5545 View (717) 970-5545
Photo of Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti, Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II
Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
I am a full-time Associate Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
I am a full-time Associate Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
(717) 775-6704 View (717) 775-6704

See more therapy options for 17512

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 17512

10+

Average cost per session

$115

Therapists in 17512 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
80% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Coping Skills
70% Relationship Issues
70% Grief
70% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
86% Highmark
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 17512 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 17512?

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.