Therapists in 20088

Photo of Rupal Mistry, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Rupal Mistry
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
It is my hope that in working with individuals to better meet their own goals, I am able to help them to live happier and more fulfilled lives. I look forward to meeting with you and exploring the different options to improving your life. Over the past 25 years I have worked extensively with adults struggling with depression & anxiety as well as adolescents, and their families. My practice, Thoughts & Emotions, LLC works with adults, adolescents, preteens and children. Please take a look at my website for more information regarding my experience and practice.
It is my hope that in working with individuals to better meet their own goals, I am able to help them to live happier and more fulfilled lives. I look forward to meeting with you and exploring the different options to improving your life. Over the past 25 years I have worked extensively with adults struggling with depression & anxiety as well as adolescents, and their families. My practice, Thoughts & Emotions, LLC works with adults, adolescents, preteens and children. Please take a look at my website for more information regarding my experience and practice.
(301) 450-7436 View (301) 450-7436
Photo of Lauren A Messina - Evergreen Child and Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Evergreen Child and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
What drives my work as a therapist is my belief in your ability to make positive changes in your life and my dedication to building strong relationships. I take a client-centered, strengths-based, empathetic, whole-person perspective. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated, engaged, and ready to gain self awareness. We'll work together to set goals, explore your past, and learn skills to implement in the future. I'm interested in strengthening your relational health and improving your overall well-being through a holistic approach fueled by my training in lifestyle medicine.
What drives my work as a therapist is my belief in your ability to make positive changes in your life and my dedication to building strong relationships. I take a client-centered, strengths-based, empathetic, whole-person perspective. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated, engaged, and ready to gain self awareness. We'll work together to set goals, explore your past, and learn skills to implement in the future. I'm interested in strengthening your relational health and improving your overall well-being through a holistic approach fueled by my training in lifestyle medicine.
(240) 982-2034 View (240) 982-2034
Photo of Mara Gutierrez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Mara Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I do my best work with highly sensitive women who are looking to invite more clarity, calm, joy, and ease into their lives. My clients are often wanting to sort through deep questions and reconnect with their inner wisdom. Our work together helps them look inside and make sense of what feels like a tangled mess of emotions. Using feelings as feedback, we hold space for intense emotions and explore painful wounds, maladaptive behaviors, and limiting beliefs inflicted by those wounds.
I do my best work with highly sensitive women who are looking to invite more clarity, calm, joy, and ease into their lives. My clients are often wanting to sort through deep questions and reconnect with their inner wisdom. Our work together helps them look inside and make sense of what feels like a tangled mess of emotions. Using feelings as feedback, we hold space for intense emotions and explore painful wounds, maladaptive behaviors, and limiting beliefs inflicted by those wounds.
(586) 371-6631 View (586) 371-6631

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stacey Karpen Dohn, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Stacey Karpen Dohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
NOT currently accepting clients. I work with children, adolescents, and adults facing whatever challenges that arise in the many different chapters of our lives. In addition to general psychotherapy I also provide specialized care in the exploration of sexual orientation and gender identity with youth, teens, adults and their families as they navigate through the social and emotional aspects of life.
NOT currently accepting clients. I work with children, adolescents, and adults facing whatever challenges that arise in the many different chapters of our lives. In addition to general psychotherapy I also provide specialized care in the exploration of sexual orientation and gender identity with youth, teens, adults and their families as they navigate through the social and emotional aspects of life.
(202) 759-4046 View (202) 759-4046
Photo of Chandra Davis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LCPC, LPC, LCPAT, ATCS
Chandra Davis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LCPC, LPC, LCPAT, ATCS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Georgia O'Keeffe once said, "To create one's own world in any of the arts takes courage." Our practice has both art therapists and counselors (licensed in MD and DC), we understand the courage it takes to create a better life for yourself using comprehensive care. In addition, the integrated healing and creative processes provide a holistic approach to personal expression, growth and development.
Georgia O'Keeffe once said, "To create one's own world in any of the arts takes courage." Our practice has both art therapists and counselors (licensed in MD and DC), we understand the courage it takes to create a better life for yourself using comprehensive care. In addition, the integrated healing and creative processes provide a holistic approach to personal expression, growth and development.
(301) 799-8957 View (301) 799-8957
Photo of Kristin Pillay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd, LCSW-C
Kristin Pillay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd, LCSW-C
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
(202) 933-8243 View (202) 933-8243
Photo of Kimberly N. Robinson, Psychologist, PhD
Kimberly N. Robinson
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Simply put, an ideal client is the one who just shows up. Whether or not you have been gently encouraged to seek therapy or you have made the decision on your own, it takes courage and intention to move forward on your journey towards growth, self-awareness, and healing. I tend to work well with clients who appreciate elevating and employing their level of introspection and insight. Ideal clients prefer and are open to delving deeper beneath the surface while at the same time understanding and appreciating the importance of behavioral based tools, techniques and interventions that ultimately help practical functionality.
Simply put, an ideal client is the one who just shows up. Whether or not you have been gently encouraged to seek therapy or you have made the decision on your own, it takes courage and intention to move forward on your journey towards growth, self-awareness, and healing. I tend to work well with clients who appreciate elevating and employing their level of introspection and insight. Ideal clients prefer and are open to delving deeper beneath the surface while at the same time understanding and appreciating the importance of behavioral based tools, techniques and interventions that ultimately help practical functionality.
(202) 952-8522 View (202) 952-8522
Photo of Saqueita Russell - AllCare Conversations Counseling Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
AllCare Conversations Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Saqueita Russell, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor that is trained to implement various therapeutic approaches. She is an eclectic Therapist that believes in a person-centered approach by tailoring treatment to the specific needs of her clients. She enjoys incorporating a Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic approach and evidenced based treatment models to support adults. She offers a safe, collaborative, and judge-free zone to support the needs and goals of the clients that she supports.
Saqueita Russell, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor that is trained to implement various therapeutic approaches. She is an eclectic Therapist that believes in a person-centered approach by tailoring treatment to the specific needs of her clients. She enjoys incorporating a Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic approach and evidenced based treatment models to support adults. She offers a safe, collaborative, and judge-free zone to support the needs and goals of the clients that she supports.
(202) 953-6349 View (202) 953-6349
Photo of Karenna Armington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, , SEP
Karenna Armington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, , SEP
Washington, DC 20008
I strive to help my clients feel better, enjoy life, develop satisfying relationships, and find personal success. Psychotherapy is often about building or restoring one's inner compass and finding a way to move through life that is fulfilling, meaningful, and satisfying. People are naturally vibrant and healthy. However, our access to that vibrancy often becomes blocked as we adjust to life's challenges. I work to help my clients gain clarity into how and why they have lost access to meaningful parts of themselves and move towards a life that feels more connected and alive.
I strive to help my clients feel better, enjoy life, develop satisfying relationships, and find personal success. Psychotherapy is often about building or restoring one's inner compass and finding a way to move through life that is fulfilling, meaningful, and satisfying. People are naturally vibrant and healthy. However, our access to that vibrancy often becomes blocked as we adjust to life's challenges. I work to help my clients gain clarity into how and why they have lost access to meaningful parts of themselves and move towards a life that feels more connected and alive.
(202) 656-6917 View (202) 656-6917
Photo of Erin Reese, Psychologist, MA, MAIPCR, PhD
Erin Reese
Psychologist, MA, MAIPCR, PhD
9 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping my clients to feel a sense of freedom or relief from their anxious thoughts, while also exploring pathways for longer lasting personal and relational change. I work very collaboratively, and my goal is to help my clients to be more comfortable in their minds and effective in their lives. I take a research-informed treatment approach and I see this work as not only a way to get through a crisis or reduce a symptom, but as a path toward having a better toolkit for managing obstacles in the future.
I specialize in helping my clients to feel a sense of freedom or relief from their anxious thoughts, while also exploring pathways for longer lasting personal and relational change. I work very collaboratively, and my goal is to help my clients to be more comfortable in their minds and effective in their lives. I take a research-informed treatment approach and I see this work as not only a way to get through a crisis or reduce a symptom, but as a path toward having a better toolkit for managing obstacles in the future.
(202) 946-4527 View (202) 946-4527
Photo of Nina Boyd, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT-C
Nina Boyd
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT-C
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a strong believer in therapy being a collaborative, healing, and restorative experience. As Pema Chödrön once said, “Let difficulty transform you. And it will. In my experience, we just need help in learning how to not run away.” But that’s easier said than done – what are the steps to getting to a better place? Where do you even start? You are not alone in this journey. I take great pride in building a therapeutic connection and a safe space for you to be your genuine self so that you may find that resiliency within.
I am a strong believer in therapy being a collaborative, healing, and restorative experience. As Pema Chödrön once said, “Let difficulty transform you. And it will. In my experience, we just need help in learning how to not run away.” But that’s easier said than done – what are the steps to getting to a better place? Where do you even start? You are not alone in this journey. I take great pride in building a therapeutic connection and a safe space for you to be your genuine self so that you may find that resiliency within.
(443) 665-8295 View (443) 665-8295
Photo of Kumi Pledger - Kumi Pledger, Counselor, LCPC
Kumi Pledger
Counselor, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Kumi Pledger, LCPC, strives to help clients sleep better, worry less and enjoy life more! She works with children, adolescents, couples, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) Clients, families and adults for various issues including, relationship challenges, supporting new and expectant mothers, eating disorders, adjustment problems, trauma, grief and loss. She uses personal insight and professional experience to provide clients with a safe place to be heard, free fears, reduce anxieties, eliminate unwanted behaviors, grow, improve and conquer insomnia. I am bilingual (Japanese) and also multicultural.
Kumi Pledger, LCPC, strives to help clients sleep better, worry less and enjoy life more! She works with children, adolescents, couples, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) Clients, families and adults for various issues including, relationship challenges, supporting new and expectant mothers, eating disorders, adjustment problems, trauma, grief and loss. She uses personal insight and professional experience to provide clients with a safe place to be heard, free fears, reduce anxieties, eliminate unwanted behaviors, grow, improve and conquer insomnia. I am bilingual (Japanese) and also multicultural.
(410) 936-5533 View (410) 936-5533
Photo of Lisa Sanchez, Psychologist, PhD
Lisa Sanchez
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
The decision to seek help can feel like an intimidating process. My goal is to provide collaborative, thoughtful and individualized therapy services to people of all ages in a comfortable, validating environment, I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years experience in private practice in the DMV region. My primary specialty is to identify and treat issues related to anxiety using a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach. Specific services may include individual therapy, parent coaching, and consultation to organizations. I often collaborate with other professionals and am easily accessible through phone or email.
The decision to seek help can feel like an intimidating process. My goal is to provide collaborative, thoughtful and individualized therapy services to people of all ages in a comfortable, validating environment, I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years experience in private practice in the DMV region. My primary specialty is to identify and treat issues related to anxiety using a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach. Specific services may include individual therapy, parent coaching, and consultation to organizations. I often collaborate with other professionals and am easily accessible through phone or email.
(240) 249-4736 View (240) 249-4736
Photo of Barbara J Suter, Psychologist, PhD
Barbara J Suter
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
First we together bring rapid relief from your current upsets (e.g., anxiety, depression), before moving on to any deeper issues. We work together directly, actively, and with care, focusing on mutually agreed upon goals. Together we work emphasizing strengths as well as dealing with problems. A collaborative partnership with you yields the best outcomes within the shortest amount of time. Understanding your family is important in our work: the current family and the family of the past. Support for families experiencing drug/alcohol crises is available. Free initial consultation by telephone. email me at drbarbarajsuter@gmail.com
First we together bring rapid relief from your current upsets (e.g., anxiety, depression), before moving on to any deeper issues. We work together directly, actively, and with care, focusing on mutually agreed upon goals. Together we work emphasizing strengths as well as dealing with problems. A collaborative partnership with you yields the best outcomes within the shortest amount of time. Understanding your family is important in our work: the current family and the family of the past. Support for families experiencing drug/alcohol crises is available. Free initial consultation by telephone. email me at drbarbarajsuter@gmail.com
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Photo of William Simpson - Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Washington, DC 20036
You don’t have to carry it all on your own. Whether you're a young adult navigating the pressure to "have it all figured out," a teen feeling misunderstood and overwhelmed, or someone facing a tough life transition, I offer a space where you can exhale. I'm a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in D.C. with experience supporting clients through anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and identity work. I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults in both school and private practice settings. I specialize in helping clients reconnect with themselves—especially when life feels uncertain, heavy, or disconnected.
You don’t have to carry it all on your own. Whether you're a young adult navigating the pressure to "have it all figured out," a teen feeling misunderstood and overwhelmed, or someone facing a tough life transition, I offer a space where you can exhale. I'm a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in D.C. with experience supporting clients through anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and identity work. I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults in both school and private practice settings. I specialize in helping clients reconnect with themselves—especially when life feels uncertain, heavy, or disconnected.
(202) 953-3294 x1 View (202) 953-3294 x1
Photo of Joy Petway - Achieving Joy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Achieving Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Washington, DC 20017
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
(301) 691-3874 View (301) 691-3874
Photo of Melissa Huang, Counselor, LGPC
Melissa Huang
Counselor, LGPC
Washington, DC 20006
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes in life, we feel stuck: stuck in a feeling we don’t like, stuck in patterns of behavior we want to break, or stuck in our relationships. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for my clients to bring their authentic selves with all their intersecting identities and work through whatever struggles keep them from thriving. Bringing warmth and empathy, I will meet you where you are and work with you to achieve your wellness goals. I love helping clients understand and express their emotions, make meaning of their past experiences and present realities, and connect with others in healthy ways.
Sometimes in life, we feel stuck: stuck in a feeling we don’t like, stuck in patterns of behavior we want to break, or stuck in our relationships. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for my clients to bring their authentic selves with all their intersecting identities and work through whatever struggles keep them from thriving. Bringing warmth and empathy, I will meet you where you are and work with you to achieve your wellness goals. I love helping clients understand and express their emotions, make meaning of their past experiences and present realities, and connect with others in healthy ways.
(202) 929-6757 View (202) 929-6757
Photo of Justin Collmann, Psychologist, PhD
Justin Collmann
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer therapy for stress and anxiety. We reflect on issues including anxiety about making mistakes, fear of failure, worrying that people do not like you, and burnout. We also consider how to cultivate motivation, creativity, community, and fun. I think physical health is a key to mental well-being, and I specialize in helping my clients establish effective exercise habits.
I offer therapy for stress and anxiety. We reflect on issues including anxiety about making mistakes, fear of failure, worrying that people do not like you, and burnout. We also consider how to cultivate motivation, creativity, community, and fun. I think physical health is a key to mental well-being, and I specialize in helping my clients establish effective exercise habits.
(202) 929-6988 View (202) 929-6988
Photo of Jamie Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Jamie Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients! The therapeutic focus is on you and your unique perception of your daily life and surrounding environment. It is explored through verbal and symbolic forms of individual and group psychotherapy. This process creates a focused consciousness on your personal inner perceptions regarding who you are and who you want to become. As a Washingtonian herself, Jamie understands the challenges you face while living in a demanding city where many people feel a balanced lifestyle is unattainable. Jamie is most gifted in her work with individuals who have a history of disordered eating, grief and loss, trauma, and abuse.
Accepting New Patients! The therapeutic focus is on you and your unique perception of your daily life and surrounding environment. It is explored through verbal and symbolic forms of individual and group psychotherapy. This process creates a focused consciousness on your personal inner perceptions regarding who you are and who you want to become. As a Washingtonian herself, Jamie understands the challenges you face while living in a demanding city where many people feel a balanced lifestyle is unattainable. Jamie is most gifted in her work with individuals who have a history of disordered eating, grief and loss, trauma, and abuse.
(202) 568-8486 View (202) 568-8486
Photo of Eugene Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, Dipl
Eugene Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, Dipl
Washington, DC 20008
Not accepting new clients
Psychotherapy can be many things: from understanding and gaining control of a major emotional or substance abuse problem, to improving a partner or family relationship, to knowing yourself better. Our “mental health” like our physical health can benefit greatly from a skilled helper to address a sudden major problem or provide long-term support to be stronger and achieve our potential. Good individual, couple/family or group therapy can address the kind of work you need for where you are in life, whether you are facing a major crisis or looking for the insight and support you need to be who you can truly be.
Psychotherapy can be many things: from understanding and gaining control of a major emotional or substance abuse problem, to improving a partner or family relationship, to knowing yourself better. Our “mental health” like our physical health can benefit greatly from a skilled helper to address a sudden major problem or provide long-term support to be stronger and achieve our potential. Good individual, couple/family or group therapy can address the kind of work you need for where you are in life, whether you are facing a major crisis or looking for the insight and support you need to be who you can truly be.
(202) 953-5851 View (202) 953-5851

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20088

< 10

Therapists in 20088 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Anxiety
100% Self Esteem
100% Women's Issues
67% Depression
67% Child
67% ADHD

Average years in practice

17 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Therapists in 20088 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20088?

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.