Therapists in 20010

Photo of Mia Paustian, Psychologist, PhD
Mia Paustian
Psychologist, PhD
Washington, DC 20010
Do you feel like your anxiety is out of control? Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts or compulsive behaviors? You have tried to change but your anxiety keeps getting stronger and you find yourself giving in more and more to your anxiety. You feel compelled to act on your habits and rituals even though you know they are not good for you. It's affecting other areas of your life. You don't want anyone to find out so you do not know who to turn to for help.
Do you feel like your anxiety is out of control? Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts or compulsive behaviors? You have tried to change but your anxiety keeps getting stronger and you find yourself giving in more and more to your anxiety. You feel compelled to act on your habits and rituals even though you know they are not good for you. It's affecting other areas of your life. You don't want anyone to find out so you do not know who to turn to for help.
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Photo of Kristin Young - Cherish Life with Dignity, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-S, LPC, ADHD-CS
Cherish Life with Dignity
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-S, LPC, ADHD-CS
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Feeling overwhelmed with life, experiencing a loss of self-worth and confidence, or facing challenges in your relationships are common struggles many people face. Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit, promoting overall well-being. Help center your thoughts and promote mental clarity; while setting realistic and achievable goals to give your life direction and purpose. Feel supported in managing anxiety, depression and stress among other things. The goal is to empower you so that you walk away knowing you’ve achieved your therapeutic and life goals.
Feeling overwhelmed with life, experiencing a loss of self-worth and confidence, or facing challenges in your relationships are common struggles many people face. Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit, promoting overall well-being. Help center your thoughts and promote mental clarity; while setting realistic and achievable goals to give your life direction and purpose. Feel supported in managing anxiety, depression and stress among other things. The goal is to empower you so that you walk away knowing you’ve achieved your therapeutic and life goals.
(888) 564-7191 View (888) 564-7191
Photo of Eva Shpak, Counselor, LGPC
Eva Shpak
Counselor, LGPC
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Hi there! I hold a strong commitment to co-creating a therapeutic space in which you feel safe to be your full self, whatever that means to you. I bring a non-judgmental presence to every session, ready to be the witness to your unique journey. Regardless of how you feel as you read this, I am here to remind you that you are on the right path. After all, by researching the right therapist for you, you are already showing up for yourself. As a queer therapist, I also enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community and their families. I work with children to help develop emotional regulation skills, as well as teens and adults of all ages.
Hi there! I hold a strong commitment to co-creating a therapeutic space in which you feel safe to be your full self, whatever that means to you. I bring a non-judgmental presence to every session, ready to be the witness to your unique journey. Regardless of how you feel as you read this, I am here to remind you that you are on the right path. After all, by researching the right therapist for you, you are already showing up for yourself. As a queer therapist, I also enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community and their families. I work with children to help develop emotional regulation skills, as well as teens and adults of all ages.
(202) 410-5491 View (202) 410-5491
Photo of Dr. Terri Judge, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Terri Judge
Psychologist, PhD
Washington, DC 20010
In my clinical work, I view the relationship between patient and therapist as central to treatment. The need for trust, privacy, safety, and non-judgmental acceptance is fundamental to the success of treatment. My theoretical orientation is psychodynamic or psychoanalytic, though I rely on an eclectic range of ideas for understanding each person. Patients experience my approach as insight-oriented, dynamic, and interactive. When a person seeks therapy it is because something hurts - a broken relationship, past or present, or deep frustrations with the self - not being able to live up to one's ideals or accomplish goals.
In my clinical work, I view the relationship between patient and therapist as central to treatment. The need for trust, privacy, safety, and non-judgmental acceptance is fundamental to the success of treatment. My theoretical orientation is psychodynamic or psychoanalytic, though I rely on an eclectic range of ideas for understanding each person. Patients experience my approach as insight-oriented, dynamic, and interactive. When a person seeks therapy it is because something hurts - a broken relationship, past or present, or deep frustrations with the self - not being able to live up to one's ideals or accomplish goals.
(202) 643-1908 View (202) 643-1908
Photo of Ellen McSweeney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen McSweeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
You’re successful at work, an active community member, and the first person your friends call in a crisis. But inside, there’s a part of you that’s not getting what she needs. You know you ‘should’ value solitude and self-care, but it’s hard to be alone. Whenever there’s a pause in your busy life, you notice a gnawing sense of emptiness. Pain over past relationships is taking up a lot of your mental real estate. You wonder: Am I choosing the wrong people? Or am I pushing the ‘right’ people away? You long to be part of a close-knit tribe — but sometimes it feels like you need your friends more than they need you.
You’re successful at work, an active community member, and the first person your friends call in a crisis. But inside, there’s a part of you that’s not getting what she needs. You know you ‘should’ value solitude and self-care, but it’s hard to be alone. Whenever there’s a pause in your busy life, you notice a gnawing sense of emptiness. Pain over past relationships is taking up a lot of your mental real estate. You wonder: Am I choosing the wrong people? Or am I pushing the ‘right’ people away? You long to be part of a close-knit tribe — but sometimes it feels like you need your friends more than they need you.
(202) 991-1844 View (202) 991-1844
Photo of James G Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA/EDS, LPC, LCPC
James G Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA/EDS, LPC, LCPC
Washington, DC 20010
For 24 years, I've been helping people shed the weights others placed on our shoulders. Whether it's the whisper that says you're not enough, the inherited beliefs that don't fit who you truly are, or the burden of past experiences you couldn't control - there is a path forward.
For 24 years, I've been helping people shed the weights others placed on our shoulders. Whether it's the whisper that says you're not enough, the inherited beliefs that don't fit who you truly are, or the burden of past experiences you couldn't control - there is a path forward.
(855) 948-6250 View (855) 948-6250
Photo of John Joseph Pavco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
John Joseph Pavco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Washington, DC 20010
Do you feel constantly overwhelmed, on edge, or like your mind won’t stop racing? You're not alone. Anxiety can be exhausting, but it doesn't have to control your life. I specialize in working with people who are struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, health anxiety, and stress-related issues. Together, we’ll identify the root of your anxiety, learn effective coping tools, and build confidence to face life's challenges.
Do you feel constantly overwhelmed, on edge, or like your mind won’t stop racing? You're not alone. Anxiety can be exhausting, but it doesn't have to control your life. I specialize in working with people who are struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, health anxiety, and stress-related issues. Together, we’ll identify the root of your anxiety, learn effective coping tools, and build confidence to face life's challenges.
(202) 831-9107 View (202) 831-9107
Photo of Marjorie Nightingale, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, JD, LMFT
Marjorie Nightingale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, JD, LMFT
Washington, DC 20010
My ideal clients are those who are experiencing difficulties with their relationships and are looking for a compassionate person to validate that what they are experiencing is real and legitimate. I enjoy working with clients who have decided that wherever they are is not where they want to be and today is the day to make change. Therapy is not always easy or fast, but it has the power to shift one from hopeless to joyful for those who are willing to do the hard work.
My ideal clients are those who are experiencing difficulties with their relationships and are looking for a compassionate person to validate that what they are experiencing is real and legitimate. I enjoy working with clients who have decided that wherever they are is not where they want to be and today is the day to make change. Therapy is not always easy or fast, but it has the power to shift one from hopeless to joyful for those who are willing to do the hard work.
(202) 831-3045 View (202) 831-3045
Photo of Jerry St Louis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Jerry St Louis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Washington, DC 20010
Helping You Find the Best You. Authentically, Boldly, and Without Shame I am a licensed psychotherapist, certified sex therapist, speaker, and sex educator specializing in LGBTQIA+ mental health, addiction, and inclusive sexuality. I work with individuals navigating issues such as social anxiety, fear of rejection, challenges around coming out, and the deep ache of feeling disconnected or alone. I also have extensive experience working with individuals impacted by substance use particularly crystal meth and sex-drug fusion offering compassionate, harm-reduction-informed care.
Helping You Find the Best You. Authentically, Boldly, and Without Shame I am a licensed psychotherapist, certified sex therapist, speaker, and sex educator specializing in LGBTQIA+ mental health, addiction, and inclusive sexuality. I work with individuals navigating issues such as social anxiety, fear of rejection, challenges around coming out, and the deep ache of feeling disconnected or alone. I also have extensive experience working with individuals impacted by substance use particularly crystal meth and sex-drug fusion offering compassionate, harm-reduction-informed care.
(202) 915-3834 View (202) 915-3834
Photo of Sarah Beth Alcabes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Sarah Beth Alcabes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Hi, I’m Sarah Beth (she/they). I’m a White genderqueer therapist who provides individual, couples, and family therapy in person and online. I specialize in individual & family therapy for queer and transgender youth and their families. I provide a safe, affirming, and age-appropriate space for nurturing, acceptance, and self-exploration. I understand therapy as one tool among many for supporting youth and adults to find more joy and resilience in their daily lives. I support clients to increase their capacity to be active participants in building a better world, through attunement to relationships with self and others.
Hi, I’m Sarah Beth (she/they). I’m a White genderqueer therapist who provides individual, couples, and family therapy in person and online. I specialize in individual & family therapy for queer and transgender youth and their families. I provide a safe, affirming, and age-appropriate space for nurturing, acceptance, and self-exploration. I understand therapy as one tool among many for supporting youth and adults to find more joy and resilience in their daily lives. I support clients to increase their capacity to be active participants in building a better world, through attunement to relationships with self and others.
(202) 601-8315 View (202) 601-8315
Photo of Michelle Batchelor, Counselor, LGPC
Michelle Batchelor
Counselor, LGPC
Washington, DC 20010
I am a compassionate, trauma‑informed therapist committed to supporting individuals, couples, and families in navigating life transitions, healing from complex trauma, and reclaiming emotional balance. Based in Washington, D.C., I bring a warm, collaborative presence to every session, offering a safe, empowering space where clients feel heard and understood.
I am a compassionate, trauma‑informed therapist committed to supporting individuals, couples, and families in navigating life transitions, healing from complex trauma, and reclaiming emotional balance. Based in Washington, D.C., I bring a warm, collaborative presence to every session, offering a safe, empowering space where clients feel heard and understood.
(202) 915-1829 View (202) 915-1829
Photo of Wing Bui, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Wing Bui
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
I am trained in anti-oppressive, trauma-informed therapy and yoga, which supports my holistic approach to care, integrating mindfulness, somatic embodiment, and spirituality. My work centers queer people of color and adult children of immigrants through grief, intergenerational and attachment trauma, and cultural identity exploration.
I am trained in anti-oppressive, trauma-informed therapy and yoga, which supports my holistic approach to care, integrating mindfulness, somatic embodiment, and spirituality. My work centers queer people of color and adult children of immigrants through grief, intergenerational and attachment trauma, and cultural identity exploration.
(202) 838-5502 View (202) 838-5502
Photo of Kathryn Wagner, Psychologist, PhD
Kathryn Wagner
Psychologist, PhD
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Psychotherapy can help you make sense of complicated feelings, gain insight into relational patterns, and begin to move forward in areas of your life where you feel stuck. My focus is to help you untangle struggles, revise problematic narratives about yourself, and re-orient you toward your values. I offer individual and couples therapy, psychological assessments (including ADHD and ASD), and gender affirming evaluation services. My integrative approach is informed by psychodynamic, behavioral, and trauma informed theories. I am trained in EMDR. Above all, I value the therapeutic relationship and your personal growth.
Psychotherapy can help you make sense of complicated feelings, gain insight into relational patterns, and begin to move forward in areas of your life where you feel stuck. My focus is to help you untangle struggles, revise problematic narratives about yourself, and re-orient you toward your values. I offer individual and couples therapy, psychological assessments (including ADHD and ASD), and gender affirming evaluation services. My integrative approach is informed by psychodynamic, behavioral, and trauma informed theories. I am trained in EMDR. Above all, I value the therapeutic relationship and your personal growth.
(202) 729-9130 View (202) 729-9130
Photo of Monique Moore, Psychologist, PhD, MA
Monique Moore
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Washington, DC 20010
I genuinely enjoy being able to help individuals achieve real and observable changes in their lives. At some point in life, most of us encounter personal roadblocks that undermine growth and create stress and unhappiness. Through my work I help people facing a wide a variety of difficulties at all levels of severity to achieve more happy and fulfilling lives. While I enjoy working with all individuals, I also have specialized experience in counseling active and veteran military service members, trauma survivors, and women.
I genuinely enjoy being able to help individuals achieve real and observable changes in their lives. At some point in life, most of us encounter personal roadblocks that undermine growth and create stress and unhappiness. Through my work I help people facing a wide a variety of difficulties at all levels of severity to achieve more happy and fulfilling lives. While I enjoy working with all individuals, I also have specialized experience in counseling active and veteran military service members, trauma survivors, and women.
(202) 919-7230 View (202) 919-7230
Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
(202) 759-8060 View (202) 759-8060
Photo of Caroline Green, Counselor, LGPC
Caroline Green
Counselor, LGPC
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Winner of the Best of Bethesda Magazine's Child/Adolescent Therapist of 2026! Do you feel stuck navigating the challenges your child or teen is facing, wondering if they stem from school stress, family dynamics, or something deeper? Are you, as an adult, grappling with feelings of burnout, anxiety, or the weight of balancing too much at once? It can be overwhelming to balance emotional needs with everyday demands. Together, we can create a space where you feel heard, supported, and equipped to tackle these challenges. You deserve tools and strategies that not only foster growth but also strengthen your relationships along the way.
Winner of the Best of Bethesda Magazine's Child/Adolescent Therapist of 2026! Do you feel stuck navigating the challenges your child or teen is facing, wondering if they stem from school stress, family dynamics, or something deeper? Are you, as an adult, grappling with feelings of burnout, anxiety, or the weight of balancing too much at once? It can be overwhelming to balance emotional needs with everyday demands. Together, we can create a space where you feel heard, supported, and equipped to tackle these challenges. You deserve tools and strategies that not only foster growth but also strengthen your relationships along the way.
(833) 454-9161 View (833) 454-9161
Photo of Paula Natalia Otero, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Paula Natalia Otero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Does it ever feel like you’re caught between worlds? Whether you’re adapting to life in a new country, reconciling your family’s expectations with your own, or feeling the weight of being “the first” to figure it all out, life can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’re an immigrant building a new chapter far from home, a first-gen juggling cultures and identities, or in a relationship trying to navigate your differences while staying connected. You’re doing your best, but inside, the self-doubt, anxiety, and disconnection are exhausting. You’re longing for clarity, connection, and a life that feels like your own.
Does it ever feel like you’re caught between worlds? Whether you’re adapting to life in a new country, reconciling your family’s expectations with your own, or feeling the weight of being “the first” to figure it all out, life can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’re an immigrant building a new chapter far from home, a first-gen juggling cultures and identities, or in a relationship trying to navigate your differences while staying connected. You’re doing your best, but inside, the self-doubt, anxiety, and disconnection are exhausting. You’re longing for clarity, connection, and a life that feels like your own.
(202) 851-2659 View (202) 851-2659
Photo of Sarah Beth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sarah Beth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Washington, DC 20010
We might be a good fit if you're a caregiver seeking affirming care for queer and transgender youth, or a queer or trans person looking for a compassionate, relationally focused therapist. I offer therapy that invites creativity, directive activities, and concrete tools for self-regulation. I believe therapy can be a connective, playful space for self-expression, identity exploration, and improving relationships with self, family, partners, and community. My approach blends polyvagal theory, IFS, and Emotional Freedom Technique.
We might be a good fit if you're a caregiver seeking affirming care for queer and transgender youth, or a queer or trans person looking for a compassionate, relationally focused therapist. I offer therapy that invites creativity, directive activities, and concrete tools for self-regulation. I believe therapy can be a connective, playful space for self-expression, identity exploration, and improving relationships with self, family, partners, and community. My approach blends polyvagal theory, IFS, and Emotional Freedom Technique.
(202) 851-9515 View (202) 851-9515
Photo of Jocelyn Yeung, Counselor, LGPC
Jocelyn Yeung
Counselor, LGPC
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Does it feel like a struggle just to get through each day? Do you long for relief from unresolved issues, anxiety, or depression? If you're feeling overwhelmed by these challenges, you're not alone. Together, we can work on understanding the root causes of your struggles and help you find peace and healing. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, painful emotions, or just feeling stuck, I am dedicated to helping you build a life that feels enjoyable and fulfilling. I’m passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color, integrating each client’s cultural background and values into our work together.
Does it feel like a struggle just to get through each day? Do you long for relief from unresolved issues, anxiety, or depression? If you're feeling overwhelmed by these challenges, you're not alone. Together, we can work on understanding the root causes of your struggles and help you find peace and healing. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, painful emotions, or just feeling stuck, I am dedicated to helping you build a life that feels enjoyable and fulfilling. I’m passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color, integrating each client’s cultural background and values into our work together.
(202) 951-9239 View (202) 951-9239
Photo of Kristen Lundquist Mahosky, Counselor, LPC, NCC
Kristen Lundquist Mahosky
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Washington, DC 20010
At The Heights Counseling and Wellness, we understand that the process of wellness can often be a daunting journey. It can feel like you are alone, climbing uphill, without the necessary support to keep moving forward. ​Whether it's seeking individual counseling during challenging times; desiring to begin a journey of wellness; or looking to support your staff, The Heights Counseling and Wellness will customize services to your unique needs. At The Heights we offer a variety of services all under one roof, including counseling and psychotherapy, wellness coaching, yoga, fitness & nutrition training, and wellness workshops.
At The Heights Counseling and Wellness, we understand that the process of wellness can often be a daunting journey. It can feel like you are alone, climbing uphill, without the necessary support to keep moving forward. ​Whether it's seeking individual counseling during challenging times; desiring to begin a journey of wellness; or looking to support your staff, The Heights Counseling and Wellness will customize services to your unique needs. At The Heights we offer a variety of services all under one roof, including counseling and psychotherapy, wellness coaching, yoga, fitness & nutrition training, and wellness workshops.
(202) 831-2463 View (202) 831-2463

See more therapy options for 20010

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20010

100+

Average cost per session

$182

Therapists in 20010 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
83% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
66% Stress
63% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna
66% CareFirst

How Therapists in 20010 see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
18% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20010?

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.