Therapists in 21750

Photo of Devyn Walechka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Devyn Walechka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Hancock, MD 21750
Originally from the scenic Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Devyn is a compassionate therapist who believes in a holistic approach to mental health and well-being. Devyn began his academic journey at Northern Michigan University, followed by Andrews University, one of the most diverse universities in not only the country, but the world.
Originally from the scenic Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Devyn is a compassionate therapist who believes in a holistic approach to mental health and well-being. Devyn began his academic journey at Northern Michigan University, followed by Andrews University, one of the most diverse universities in not only the country, but the world.
(301) 709-9764 View (301) 709-9764
Photo of Dr. Tiffany Hendershot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Dr. Tiffany Hendershot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Serves Area
Whether you’re feeling weighed down by anxiety, stuck in patterns of depression, or struggling with past trauma, have hope that life can get better. My laid-back personality will put you at ease so you feel comfortable sharing your story. I will bring understanding to your past, present, and future while learning about your social world. Clients appreciate that I ask the hard questions, I am direct and structured, and I go all in to be their partner in healing. I’ll challenge and support you, pushing you outside your comfort zone because that is where change happens.
Whether you’re feeling weighed down by anxiety, stuck in patterns of depression, or struggling with past trauma, have hope that life can get better. My laid-back personality will put you at ease so you feel comfortable sharing your story. I will bring understanding to your past, present, and future while learning about your social world. Clients appreciate that I ask the hard questions, I am direct and structured, and I go all in to be their partner in healing. I’ll challenge and support you, pushing you outside your comfort zone because that is where change happens.
(304) 969-7042 View (304) 969-7042
Photo of Kumi Pledger, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Kumi Pledger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now I am taking on new clients! Also, I am available on Sundays! I, Kumi Pledger, LCPC work with all ages: children, adolescents, couples, LGBTQ Clients, families and adults for various issues including, hearing from traumatic experiences, relationship challenges such as dealing with narcissistic abuse, struggling to manage anxiety, having no motivations, supporting new and expectant mothers, eating disorders, adjustment to new places/new jobs, grief and loss.
Now I am taking on new clients! Also, I am available on Sundays! I, Kumi Pledger, LCPC work with all ages: children, adolescents, couples, LGBTQ Clients, families and adults for various issues including, hearing from traumatic experiences, relationship challenges such as dealing with narcissistic abuse, struggling to manage anxiety, having no motivations, supporting new and expectant mothers, eating disorders, adjustment to new places/new jobs, grief and loss.
(301) 701-2539 View (301) 701-2539

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Spencer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, PMH-C, BC-TMH
Emily Spencer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, PMH-C, BC-TMH
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you anxious and struggling with motherhood? Perhaps something happened during your pregnancy or birth that you can't stop thinking about. My name is Emily; I'm a licensed professional counselor and certified EMDR therapist. I help moms heal from difficult and traumatic birth experiences and find themselves in motherhood. I've been a counselor for almost 15 years and practice from a psychodynamic and trauma-informed lens. I understand the impact of trauma, significant life events, and childhood relationships and how these things impact a person's view of themselves and the world around them.
Are you anxious and struggling with motherhood? Perhaps something happened during your pregnancy or birth that you can't stop thinking about. My name is Emily; I'm a licensed professional counselor and certified EMDR therapist. I help moms heal from difficult and traumatic birth experiences and find themselves in motherhood. I've been a counselor for almost 15 years and practice from a psychodynamic and trauma-informed lens. I understand the impact of trauma, significant life events, and childhood relationships and how these things impact a person's view of themselves and the world around them.
(223) 215-5719 View (223) 215-5719
Photo of Lisa Sweeney - A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
As the Clinical Director at A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, I desire to help individuals and families discover solutions for the challenges they face. Whether dealing with relationship problems, depression, anxiety or other mental health issues, your treatment will be individualized to help you work toward restoration of mental health, improved relationships and spiritual growth. Our therapists operate from a Christian perspective, and serve people of all faiths and denominations. We always honor the personal beliefs of every client and all clients choose IF and how they would like to incorporate their personal faith in their treatment.
As the Clinical Director at A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, I desire to help individuals and families discover solutions for the challenges they face. Whether dealing with relationship problems, depression, anxiety or other mental health issues, your treatment will be individualized to help you work toward restoration of mental health, improved relationships and spiritual growth. Our therapists operate from a Christian perspective, and serve people of all faiths and denominations. We always honor the personal beliefs of every client and all clients choose IF and how they would like to incorporate their personal faith in their treatment.
(304) 807-9172 View (304) 807-9172
Photo of Alison Bomba - Alison J. Bomba, Psy.D., LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Alison J. Bomba, Psy.D., LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
A licensed psychologist, I provide grief therapy as well as exposure-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Ages served: 3-25. Services are provided both in-office and via telehealth.
A licensed psychologist, I provide grief therapy as well as exposure-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Ages served: 3-25. Services are provided both in-office and via telehealth.
(301) 281-6159 View (301) 281-6159
Photo of Rhonda R Bradley-Shabazz, Licensed Professional Counselor, DSW, LPC, MA
Rhonda R Bradley-Shabazz
Licensed Professional Counselor, DSW, LPC, MA
Hagerstown, MD 21740
My career has been connected to the child welfare system as either social worker or therapist. My specialties have evolved from that experience to include, trauma recovery, child therapy, and familial relationships. My own personal loss and journey through widowhood, shaped my interest in grief and loss.
My career has been connected to the child welfare system as either social worker or therapist. My specialties have evolved from that experience to include, trauma recovery, child therapy, and familial relationships. My own personal loss and journey through widowhood, shaped my interest in grief and loss.
(240) 616-4612 View (240) 616-4612
Photo of Aryn Hundley, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LGMFT
Aryn Hundley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LGMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sex drives not matching? Struggling with communication in your marriage? These are some of the main issues I have consistently worked on successfully with couples in my time as a therapist. My name is Aryn and I am the practice owner at Sanctuary Christian Counseling (you do not need to have a faith background to come- all are welcome). My job as an artist of human change is invigorating and exciting for me - I gain joy from sitting down with clients who are struggling, as it is my life's calling to walk besides others in their suffering.
Sex drives not matching? Struggling with communication in your marriage? These are some of the main issues I have consistently worked on successfully with couples in my time as a therapist. My name is Aryn and I am the practice owner at Sanctuary Christian Counseling (you do not need to have a faith background to come- all are welcome). My job as an artist of human change is invigorating and exciting for me - I gain joy from sitting down with clients who are struggling, as it is my life's calling to walk besides others in their suffering.
(717) 523-9981 View (717) 523-9981
Photo of Alyssa Einhorn, Art Therapist, LCPAT
Alyssa Einhorn
Art Therapist, LCPAT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Opening up can feel vulnerable, and you don’t have to rush or do it perfectly. I offer a warm, gentle, and compassionate space where you can show up exactly as you are. My role is to meet you where you are, build trust together, and support you as you open up at your own pace. We’ll explore what’s been weighing on you side by side, with care and curiosity. Together, we’ll navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, people-pleasing, or life transitions, helping you feel more connected to yourself and grounded in your strengths.
Opening up can feel vulnerable, and you don’t have to rush or do it perfectly. I offer a warm, gentle, and compassionate space where you can show up exactly as you are. My role is to meet you where you are, build trust together, and support you as you open up at your own pace. We’ll explore what’s been weighing on you side by side, with care and curiosity. Together, we’ll navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, people-pleasing, or life transitions, helping you feel more connected to yourself and grounded in your strengths.
(240) 820-3746 View (240) 820-3746
Photo of Jessica O'Neil - Rise Counseling & Wellness Group LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Rise Counseling & Wellness Group LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21740
We're so glad you're here! At Rise Counseling & Wellness Group, we believe people change and grow when they're able to find meaning and purpose in their lives, and we are passionate about helping people become more authentic versions of themselves. We hope that in our work together we can help support you while you find the version of you that you want to be!
We're so glad you're here! At Rise Counseling & Wellness Group, we believe people change and grow when they're able to find meaning and purpose in their lives, and we are passionate about helping people become more authentic versions of themselves. We hope that in our work together we can help support you while you find the version of you that you want to be!
(240) 816-4009 View (240) 816-4009
Photo of Jeremy Deinlein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Jeremy Deinlein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am excited to be taking new clients! I work alongside my clients in helping them understand themselves and grow towards who they wish to become and achieve their goals. My work aids people who are exploring and developing their own personal identity; whether that be sexuality, spirituality, or more. I am ready and willing to work with you, no matter where you are starting from. I am currently offering teletherapy and in-person services.
I am excited to be taking new clients! I work alongside my clients in helping them understand themselves and grow towards who they wish to become and achieve their goals. My work aids people who are exploring and developing their own personal identity; whether that be sexuality, spirituality, or more. I am ready and willing to work with you, no matter where you are starting from. I am currently offering teletherapy and in-person services.
(240) 973-3794 View (240) 973-3794
Photo of Kathy Cherney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Cherney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Kathy. Many people experience situations that result in feelings such as anger, grief, depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Without the right tools, these feelings can be overwhelming and interfere with one's daily life. I use cognitive therapy to help you learn new methods to manage your feelings and issues and find resolution. You will decide your goals, and I will provide ideas, skills, and tools to assist in the journey. I graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Master's of Social Work in 1992. With over 16 years of experience, I have worked with clients on issues of feelings, assertiveness,
Hello, I'm Kathy. Many people experience situations that result in feelings such as anger, grief, depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Without the right tools, these feelings can be overwhelming and interfere with one's daily life. I use cognitive therapy to help you learn new methods to manage your feelings and issues and find resolution. You will decide your goals, and I will provide ideas, skills, and tools to assist in the journey. I graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Master's of Social Work in 1992. With over 16 years of experience, I have worked with clients on issues of feelings, assertiveness,
(301) 973-6810 View (301) 973-6810
Photo of Quasia To - Openings For Couples Therapy! First Session FREE! , Pre-Licensed Professional
Are you and your partner struggling to get past certain issues in your marriage or relationship? Do you find it hard to communicate how you really feel to them? Is a lack of communication causing gridlock between the two of you, to the point where it is hard to reach a resolution when conflict arises? Maybe betrayal has occurred and you are finding it hard to trust your partner again. Let me help you reestablish and reaffirm the bond that brought you together in the first place. I'll teach you strategies to better communicate and overcome whatever obstacle you are facing in your relationship to help reignite the spark.
Are you and your partner struggling to get past certain issues in your marriage or relationship? Do you find it hard to communicate how you really feel to them? Is a lack of communication causing gridlock between the two of you, to the point where it is hard to reach a resolution when conflict arises? Maybe betrayal has occurred and you are finding it hard to trust your partner again. Let me help you reestablish and reaffirm the bond that brought you together in the first place. I'll teach you strategies to better communicate and overcome whatever obstacle you are facing in your relationship to help reignite the spark.
(240) 981-5876 View (240) 981-5876
Photo of Claire Kalala - Claire K, Art Therapist for High-Maskers & Trauma, Art Therapist, LCPAT, LCPC, ATR-BC
Claire K, Art Therapist for High-Maskers & Trauma
Art Therapist, LCPAT, LCPC, ATR-BC
4 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Neurodivergent (Autism/ADHD) adult? Feeling burned out from masking and overwhelm? You may look like you’re holding it together—but underneath, you’re exhausted. You may be navigating burnout, anxiety, or the impact of long-term masking. Many of my clients are late-diagnosed or questioning neurodivergent adults (Autism/ADHD) trying to understand themselves in a new way. You might be unpacking complex trauma, rethinking your identity, or feeling stuck between who you’ve had to be and who you are. When you hold multiple identities, that process can feel even more overwhelming and isolating.
Neurodivergent (Autism/ADHD) adult? Feeling burned out from masking and overwhelm? You may look like you’re holding it together—but underneath, you’re exhausted. You may be navigating burnout, anxiety, or the impact of long-term masking. Many of my clients are late-diagnosed or questioning neurodivergent adults (Autism/ADHD) trying to understand themselves in a new way. You might be unpacking complex trauma, rethinking your identity, or feeling stuck between who you’ve had to be and who you are. When you hold multiple identities, that process can feel even more overwhelming and isolating.
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Photo of Comfort Tetteh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Comfort Tetteh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our interpretation of events can be inaccurate and can hurt us. You will have no regrets tomorrow by giving yourself a chance to live today. I believe Life is always worth living. Whether you are hurting, stressed out, overwhelmed or feeling stuck emotionally because of bad relationships, dysfunctional family systems, school, work, past traumatic experiences, there is hope. Come and share your thoughts and feelings, clarify them and put things in perspective. Unearth maladaptive behavior patterns, develop coping skills, make decisions about change and get the best out of life.
Our interpretation of events can be inaccurate and can hurt us. You will have no regrets tomorrow by giving yourself a chance to live today. I believe Life is always worth living. Whether you are hurting, stressed out, overwhelmed or feeling stuck emotionally because of bad relationships, dysfunctional family systems, school, work, past traumatic experiences, there is hope. Come and share your thoughts and feelings, clarify them and put things in perspective. Unearth maladaptive behavior patterns, develop coping skills, make decisions about change and get the best out of life.
(240) 767-6411 View (240) 767-6411
Photo of Michael Thoerig, Psychologist, PsyD
Michael Thoerig
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Facing personal or family struggles is often difficult; making the decision to seek help can be even more so. I view the therapeutic process as a joint endeavor between the therapist and the individual or family involved. While the techniques and strategies employed in session are important, an individual's motivation and willingness to work are critical. When appropriate, this process can include an individual's family or specific family members. I often seek caregiver participation when working with children and adolescents. Parents and loved ones can be a powerful tool in eliciting growth and development.
Facing personal or family struggles is often difficult; making the decision to seek help can be even more so. I view the therapeutic process as a joint endeavor between the therapist and the individual or family involved. While the techniques and strategies employed in session are important, an individual's motivation and willingness to work are critical. When appropriate, this process can include an individual's family or specific family members. I often seek caregiver participation when working with children and adolescents. Parents and loved ones can be a powerful tool in eliciting growth and development.
(301) 363-2731 View (301) 363-2731
Photo of Laura Bradford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Laura Bradford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker–Certified (LCSW-C). I help teens and adults tackle anxiety, stress, and life transitions while building confidence and balance. Together, using CBT, Reality, and Supportive Therapy, we turn your strengths into real, lasting change. Feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or life changes? I work with teens and adults navigating self-doubt, low confidence, and major transitions. Together, we’ll create a supportive, safe space to explore your goals, build coping skills, and develop practical strategies for lasting, positive change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker–Certified (LCSW-C). I help teens and adults tackle anxiety, stress, and life transitions while building confidence and balance. Together, using CBT, Reality, and Supportive Therapy, we turn your strengths into real, lasting change. Feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or life changes? I work with teens and adults navigating self-doubt, low confidence, and major transitions. Together, we’ll create a supportive, safe space to explore your goals, build coping skills, and develop practical strategies for lasting, positive change.
(916) 665-4432 View (916) 665-4432
Photo of Alisia L Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Alisia L Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21742
I am a seasoned licensed clinical social worker and therapist in private practice committed to supporting individuals as they navigate personal challenges and work toward meaningful change. I provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where adults can openly explore their experiences, concerns, and goals.Many individuals seek therapy in search of a supportive space to process life stressors and feel genuinely heard. My clinical approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in empathy and professionalism.
I am a seasoned licensed clinical social worker and therapist in private practice committed to supporting individuals as they navigate personal challenges and work toward meaningful change. I provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where adults can openly explore their experiences, concerns, and goals.Many individuals seek therapy in search of a supportive space to process life stressors and feel genuinely heard. My clinical approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in empathy and professionalism.
(301) 901-7507 View (301) 901-7507
Photo of Anne L. Jenkins - River Bend Wellness/ Anne Jenkins LCSW-C , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
River Bend Wellness/ Anne Jenkins LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
5 Endorsed
Williamsport, MD 21795
Welcome! Making the decision to seek support is not an easy one, but I am glad you have taken the first step. My name is Anne Jenkins(Lawrence). My path has always brought me to a place where I was able to collaborate and assist in the process of healing from trauma. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders; supporting members of the neurodivergent population navigate their experiences; supporting individuals who are discovering their gender identity and/or sexual identity as well as persons navigating change, grief and loss. I have additional expertise in supporting those with chronic illness.
Welcome! Making the decision to seek support is not an easy one, but I am glad you have taken the first step. My name is Anne Jenkins(Lawrence). My path has always brought me to a place where I was able to collaborate and assist in the process of healing from trauma. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders; supporting members of the neurodivergent population navigate their experiences; supporting individuals who are discovering their gender identity and/or sexual identity as well as persons navigating change, grief and loss. I have additional expertise in supporting those with chronic illness.
(301) 835-2523 View (301) 835-2523
Photo of Andie Lozouski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Andie Lozouski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Andie, a Psychotherapist & LGBTQ+ Ally. I've provided mental health counseling and therapy for 20+ years, helping people who were overwhelmed with challenging life transitions, depression, anxiety, rumination, trauma, psychosis, grief, identity issues, relationship conflicts, addictions, etc. Have you asked others for support but they were too busy? Do people "help" by making suggestions without really hearing/acknowledging your feelings? Have you been afraid to ask for help?Examples of goals: learning healthier coping skills; reducing & managing symptoms such as self harm, panic attacks, low self esteem; managing loss.
Hi, I'm Andie, a Psychotherapist & LGBTQ+ Ally. I've provided mental health counseling and therapy for 20+ years, helping people who were overwhelmed with challenging life transitions, depression, anxiety, rumination, trauma, psychosis, grief, identity issues, relationship conflicts, addictions, etc. Have you asked others for support but they were too busy? Do people "help" by making suggestions without really hearing/acknowledging your feelings? Have you been afraid to ask for help?Examples of goals: learning healthier coping skills; reducing & managing symptoms such as self harm, panic attacks, low self esteem; managing loss.
(240) 839-6836 View (240) 839-6836

See more therapy options for 21750

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 21750

< 10

Therapists in 21750 who prioritize treating:

67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Life Transitions
67% Social Anxiety
67% Complex PTSD
67% Health Anxiety

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 21750 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 21750?

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.