Therapists in 30317

Photo of Ryan Austin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ryan Austin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
I work to unconditionally welcome my clients and all their parts from the moment they walk through the door. In a world where judgment, shame, and criticism are easily found, I strive to make my office a place where acceptance and space exist for anyone. With my guiding theory of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and integration of Somatic & Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), I practice the tenants of compassion and understanding. Clients have reported to me that this allows for them to feel like their internal world has space and fosters the process of healing from burdening beliefs and trauma.
I work to unconditionally welcome my clients and all their parts from the moment they walk through the door. In a world where judgment, shame, and criticism are easily found, I strive to make my office a place where acceptance and space exist for anyone. With my guiding theory of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and integration of Somatic & Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), I practice the tenants of compassion and understanding. Clients have reported to me that this allows for them to feel like their internal world has space and fosters the process of healing from burdening beliefs and trauma.
(678) 729-9041 View (678) 729-9041
Photo of Isita Patel, Counselor, MS, APC, CTP, NCC
Isita Patel
Counselor, MS, APC, CTP, NCC
Online Only
Asking for help can be really hard! Talking to a stranger can be uncomfortable. So, I strive to make this process a little bit easier by creating a safe and comfortable space that puts you at ease. Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Depressed? Anxious? Struggling with self-esteem? Whatever it is that you are going through, my goal is to empower you! I believe that everyone has what they need within them. My goal is to help you bring that out. I work with you to take your expertise in your life and combine it with my clinical knowledge and skills to tailor techniques and strategies to you and your goals.
Asking for help can be really hard! Talking to a stranger can be uncomfortable. So, I strive to make this process a little bit easier by creating a safe and comfortable space that puts you at ease. Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Depressed? Anxious? Struggling with self-esteem? Whatever it is that you are going through, my goal is to empower you! I believe that everyone has what they need within them. My goal is to help you bring that out. I work with you to take your expertise in your life and combine it with my clinical knowledge and skills to tailor techniques and strategies to you and your goals.
(678) 730-5669 x3 View (678) 730-5669 x3
Photo of Katelyn Ortego, Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, MS
Katelyn Ortego
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, MS
Atlanta, GA 30317
I am guided by the belief that ‘humans make sense.' We don’t just arrive at our behaviors by chance; we are innovative, brilliant beings, built to be resilient. But maybe you’re finding yourself here because how you're relating to yourself and others is not serving you anymore. What do we do when we are stuck in cycles that leave us isolated, not just from others, but ourselves? Life is full of "both;and," joy and heartache, the two informing one another in the dynamic experience of what it means to be human. But how do we make peace with it all? What does it mean to embrace our humanity in a way that liberates, not paralyzes?
I am guided by the belief that ‘humans make sense.' We don’t just arrive at our behaviors by chance; we are innovative, brilliant beings, built to be resilient. But maybe you’re finding yourself here because how you're relating to yourself and others is not serving you anymore. What do we do when we are stuck in cycles that leave us isolated, not just from others, but ourselves? Life is full of "both;and," joy and heartache, the two informing one another in the dynamic experience of what it means to be human. But how do we make peace with it all? What does it mean to embrace our humanity in a way that liberates, not paralyzes?
(404) 574-2874 View (404) 574-2874
Photo of Latrice Lynn Lewis, LAPC, NCC, MPC
Latrice Lynn Lewis
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you found it difficult to adapt to a new life transition? Are you struggling with past traumas? Struggling to make friends/romantic connections or find motivation? I approach counseling as a partnership and together we can improve your well-being. I strive to create a space that is non-judgmental where you can be yourself without fear. You've made it this far in your life with coping skills you have developed along the way. Some of those ways of coping may be getting in your way now. I'll help you identify unhealthy patterns, understand the origin of your issues, and change your life for the better. You deserve to feel better.
Have you found it difficult to adapt to a new life transition? Are you struggling with past traumas? Struggling to make friends/romantic connections or find motivation? I approach counseling as a partnership and together we can improve your well-being. I strive to create a space that is non-judgmental where you can be yourself without fear. You've made it this far in your life with coping skills you have developed along the way. Some of those ways of coping may be getting in your way now. I'll help you identify unhealthy patterns, understand the origin of your issues, and change your life for the better. You deserve to feel better.
(678) 619-5456 View (678) 619-5456
Photo of Katie Detscher, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Katie Detscher
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Online Only
Welcome to my page! My work is founded on our relationship and creating a space of authenticity and comfort. I cherish being let in to someone’s world and I focus on how I can understand your particular context no matter how different we are. I am very warm, personable, engaged and direct without being directive. I will meet you wherever you are and I am flexible in my approach. I help people with relationship concerns, life transitions, experiencing new, uncomfortable symptoms/diagnoses, or sorting through years of accumulated, old stressors. I can help to deepen your understanding and acceptance of yourself and your relationships.
Welcome to my page! My work is founded on our relationship and creating a space of authenticity and comfort. I cherish being let in to someone’s world and I focus on how I can understand your particular context no matter how different we are. I am very warm, personable, engaged and direct without being directive. I will meet you wherever you are and I am flexible in my approach. I help people with relationship concerns, life transitions, experiencing new, uncomfortable symptoms/diagnoses, or sorting through years of accumulated, old stressors. I can help to deepen your understanding and acceptance of yourself and your relationships.
(404) 480-8901 View (404) 480-8901
Photo of Brooke Owens, MA
Brooke Owens
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily work with those that are struggling with self-trust, shame & perfectionism. Additionally, I love working with people experiencing attachment-based anxieties, sexual dissatisfaction or desire differences with their partners. I also work with queer & non-monogamy exploration, as well as those that have experienced religious or relational trauma. My mission is to help others connect back to their body after being taught over a lifetime that they shouldn’t trust it.
I primarily work with those that are struggling with self-trust, shame & perfectionism. Additionally, I love working with people experiencing attachment-based anxieties, sexual dissatisfaction or desire differences with their partners. I also work with queer & non-monogamy exploration, as well as those that have experienced religious or relational trauma. My mission is to help others connect back to their body after being taught over a lifetime that they shouldn’t trust it.
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Photo of Sarah Browning, Counselor, LAPC, CRC, CIEC
Sarah Browning
Counselor, LAPC, CRC, CIEC
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
I specialize in guiding adolescents, young adults, and women through the intricate process of healing their relationship with both their minds and bodies. Central to my approach is the belief that our early childhood experiences shape the “template” through which we experience life and relationships. I blend together client-centered therapy, attachment theory, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, all viewed through a trauma-informed lens. I advocate for a holistic healing journey that addresses the mind, body, and spirit, and find incorporating somatic interventions profoundly healing for the nervous system.
I specialize in guiding adolescents, young adults, and women through the intricate process of healing their relationship with both their minds and bodies. Central to my approach is the belief that our early childhood experiences shape the “template” through which we experience life and relationships. I blend together client-centered therapy, attachment theory, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, all viewed through a trauma-informed lens. I advocate for a holistic healing journey that addresses the mind, body, and spirit, and find incorporating somatic interventions profoundly healing for the nervous system.
(404) 495-5357 View (404) 495-5357
Photo of Erin Lightman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Erin Lightman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You want to feel better. You’re ready to heal, and I want to help you on that journey. I see counseling as a collaborative partnership, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be you without fear of rejection. Using an approach to counseling that blends cognitive behavior techniques with values work and self-compassion, I help clients cultivate self-love, incorporate new coping skills, and improve their relationships. I am also an IFS-informed clinician, meaning that I work with you to improve the relationships between various parts of yourself. I work best with people who are curious and ready to grow.
You want to feel better. You’re ready to heal, and I want to help you on that journey. I see counseling as a collaborative partnership, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be you without fear of rejection. Using an approach to counseling that blends cognitive behavior techniques with values work and self-compassion, I help clients cultivate self-love, incorporate new coping skills, and improve their relationships. I am also an IFS-informed clinician, meaning that I work with you to improve the relationships between various parts of yourself. I work best with people who are curious and ready to grow.
(678) 252-5154 View (678) 252-5154
Photo of Maggie Akstin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Maggie Akstin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
9 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
My highest ambition in my work with clients is to help you to discover your own inherent strengths, resources, wisdom, and power, and to help you to cultivate compassion for yourself through mindfulness, radical self acceptance and self compassion. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, family of origin issues, relationship challenges, sexual orientation and gender identity questions, vocational and existential concerns. I have training and experience working with LGBTIQ+ folk, as well as clients in non traditional relationships.
My highest ambition in my work with clients is to help you to discover your own inherent strengths, resources, wisdom, and power, and to help you to cultivate compassion for yourself through mindfulness, radical self acceptance and self compassion. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, family of origin issues, relationship challenges, sexual orientation and gender identity questions, vocational and existential concerns. I have training and experience working with LGBTIQ+ folk, as well as clients in non traditional relationships.
(762) 200-1914 View (762) 200-1914
Photo of Lori Ayling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lori Ayling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Atlanta, GA 30317
Welcome! It is human to struggle with uncertainty, at times to feel disconnected from others, and to feel overwhelmed with life's challenges. Whether you are having difficulty with anxiety, challenging emotions, relating to others, or just want to feel more confident in your choices, it can be helpful to have a non-judgemental listening ear.
Welcome! It is human to struggle with uncertainty, at times to feel disconnected from others, and to feel overwhelmed with life's challenges. Whether you are having difficulty with anxiety, challenging emotions, relating to others, or just want to feel more confident in your choices, it can be helpful to have a non-judgemental listening ear.
(404) 738-7491 View (404) 738-7491
Photo of Thom Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MMC, LCSW
Thom Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MMC, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
Creating the life and relationships you want is not only possible, it can be fun, exciting, healing, freeing, and soothing. Old patterns, beliefs, hurts, and traumas don't have to hold you back. Heal the past and create a rich, connected, and flexible present. Create a future that honors who you are and who you are becoming as an individual or as a couple or family.
Creating the life and relationships you want is not only possible, it can be fun, exciting, healing, freeing, and soothing. Old patterns, beliefs, hurts, and traumas don't have to hold you back. Heal the past and create a rich, connected, and flexible present. Create a future that honors who you are and who you are becoming as an individual or as a couple or family.
(678) 671-7554 View (678) 671-7554
Photo of Latechia Hogue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Latechia Hogue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
Oh how I loved everybody else when I finally got to talk about myself. - Dar Williams. This practice provides a space for clients to feel safe enough to take off the mask without judgement. What about the anxious, depressed, angry, shamed and stuck parts of ourselves? They desire to be seen as well. I am here to stand witness with you. I work with women, particularly women of color, and the men who love them. I am proudly LGBTQ allied. I work with individuals and couples. All are welcome.
Oh how I loved everybody else when I finally got to talk about myself. - Dar Williams. This practice provides a space for clients to feel safe enough to take off the mask without judgement. What about the anxious, depressed, angry, shamed and stuck parts of ourselves? They desire to be seen as well. I am here to stand witness with you. I work with women, particularly women of color, and the men who love them. I am proudly LGBTQ allied. I work with individuals and couples. All are welcome.
(404) 609-0792 View (404) 609-0792
Photo of Dr. Catherine Reynolds - Self-Care Simplified, Psychologist, PsyD
Self-Care Simplified
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Our exclusive stress management psychotherapy practice caters to high-achieving professionals facing the unique pressures of success. We offer personalized, discreet care to help you manage stress, anxiety, and burnout without sacrificing your performance or relationships. With a sophisticated, results-oriented approach, we guide you toward achieving balance, emotional resilience, and lasting well-being. Our practice provides the high-level support you need to excel personally and professionally while maintaining mental clarity and control.
Our exclusive stress management psychotherapy practice caters to high-achieving professionals facing the unique pressures of success. We offer personalized, discreet care to help you manage stress, anxiety, and burnout without sacrificing your performance or relationships. With a sophisticated, results-oriented approach, we guide you toward achieving balance, emotional resilience, and lasting well-being. Our practice provides the high-level support you need to excel personally and professionally while maintaining mental clarity and control.
(470) 458-3964 View (470) 458-3964
Photo of Maxine L Carelock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Maxine L Carelock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing feelings of anger, rage, and low self-esteem? Does it impact your confidence at work, home and with friends? Do you frequently feel overwhelmed and disconnected from others? Well, if this describes you, I want to help you acquire freedom from old burdens and help you to create a new outlook on life. I will assist you in restoring your mental and emotional balance along with addressing the unconscious negativity running through your thoughts and behaviors you often regret. Let's get together so that the light in you shines brightly, again.
Are you experiencing feelings of anger, rage, and low self-esteem? Does it impact your confidence at work, home and with friends? Do you frequently feel overwhelmed and disconnected from others? Well, if this describes you, I want to help you acquire freedom from old burdens and help you to create a new outlook on life. I will assist you in restoring your mental and emotional balance along with addressing the unconscious negativity running through your thoughts and behaviors you often regret. Let's get together so that the light in you shines brightly, again.
(678) 626-5096 View (678) 626-5096
Photo of Emily Sarah Katz, Psychologist, PsyD
Emily Sarah Katz
Psychologist, PsyD
Atlanta, GA 30317
We all have emotional wounds from the past. Left untreated, these experiences can harm us mentally, affect our relationships and make us unhappy. Therapy can help you explore, understand and ultimately heal by addressing the painful memories broken hearts, resentments, worries, and regrets that are often the root cause of the problem. By allowing ourselves to heal and grow, this experiences can also become sources of strengths and wisdom. I offer over a decade of experience as a clinical psychologist, helping people plant the seeds of change.
We all have emotional wounds from the past. Left untreated, these experiences can harm us mentally, affect our relationships and make us unhappy. Therapy can help you explore, understand and ultimately heal by addressing the painful memories broken hearts, resentments, worries, and regrets that are often the root cause of the problem. By allowing ourselves to heal and grow, this experiences can also become sources of strengths and wisdom. I offer over a decade of experience as a clinical psychologist, helping people plant the seeds of change.
(404) 948-4974 View (404) 948-4974
Photo of Tom Query - Wellspring Counseling & Transitions - Tom Query, Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Wellspring Counseling & Transitions - Tom Query
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
7 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
I am an experienced helping professional, what I call a 'change agent' with a first hand knowledge of a wide variety of issues, problems and situations. I am excellent in communication, warm, relational, non-judgmental and direct. I work to hear the issues you are seeking help with. I do not use "psychobabble." I focus on the "here and now" issues you bring and we will explore what has brought you to this place, what you can do and/or what you can be. When we first meet we will make sure I am the best type of person for your concern.
I am an experienced helping professional, what I call a 'change agent' with a first hand knowledge of a wide variety of issues, problems and situations. I am excellent in communication, warm, relational, non-judgmental and direct. I work to hear the issues you are seeking help with. I do not use "psychobabble." I focus on the "here and now" issues you bring and we will explore what has brought you to this place, what you can do and/or what you can be. When we first meet we will make sure I am the best type of person for your concern.
(770) 824-1103 View (770) 824-1103
Photo of Christina Ann Armstrong - Christina Armstrong LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Christina Armstrong LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
It is my belief that therapy is a collaborative process that requires a relationship of trust and respect between therapist and client. I make this idea the primary focus in developing a therapeutic bond.. I work with adult individuals and couples who are seeking to find resolution to challenges in their life, I strive to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where together with my clients, we work on finding solutions to the issues being confronted. The most rewarding part of being a therapist is to see my clients grow and develop into the person they want to be and to develop the self confidence in themselves
It is my belief that therapy is a collaborative process that requires a relationship of trust and respect between therapist and client. I make this idea the primary focus in developing a therapeutic bond.. I work with adult individuals and couples who are seeking to find resolution to challenges in their life, I strive to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where together with my clients, we work on finding solutions to the issues being confronted. The most rewarding part of being a therapist is to see my clients grow and develop into the person they want to be and to develop the self confidence in themselves
(678) 562-6528 View (678) 562-6528
Photo of Dawn Kitto, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS, CST
Dawn Kitto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS, CST
6 Endorsed
Online Only
A Compassionate, Relational Approach to Mental Health Counseling and Sex Therapy: I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist with over a decade of experience, practicing in Georgia and New York. My work is integrative, blending evidence-based tools with narrative and feminist therapy frameworks. I show up as an engaged, active therapist — someone who asks questions, connects dots, and helps you make meaning. Therapy with me isn’t passive. It’s a process of co-creating insight, healing, and change that reflects your values, while also addressing symptom reduction.
A Compassionate, Relational Approach to Mental Health Counseling and Sex Therapy: I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist with over a decade of experience, practicing in Georgia and New York. My work is integrative, blending evidence-based tools with narrative and feminist therapy frameworks. I show up as an engaged, active therapist — someone who asks questions, connects dots, and helps you make meaning. Therapy with me isn’t passive. It’s a process of co-creating insight, healing, and change that reflects your values, while also addressing symptom reduction.
(404) 618-1101 View (404) 618-1101
Photo of Walter Smith Grider Jr - Smitty Grider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Smitty Grider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Atlanta, GA 30317
My practice is centered around helping people reconnect with their inherent goodness. So many of us walk around with a deep sense of unworthiness, a feeling that there's something wrong, finding ourselves in conflict with others, lacking purpose, and disconnected from our true selves. This is uncomfortable, painful even. In response to this discomfort, we develop all sorts of means to cope: drugs and alcohol, work, money, sex, video games, or TV. Or, we try to fix what’s “wrong” through perfectionism, achievement, therapy, or spirituality. We try to avoid or fix our insecurities out of fear, allowing them to grow.
My practice is centered around helping people reconnect with their inherent goodness. So many of us walk around with a deep sense of unworthiness, a feeling that there's something wrong, finding ourselves in conflict with others, lacking purpose, and disconnected from our true selves. This is uncomfortable, painful even. In response to this discomfort, we develop all sorts of means to cope: drugs and alcohol, work, money, sex, video games, or TV. Or, we try to fix what’s “wrong” through perfectionism, achievement, therapy, or spirituality. We try to avoid or fix our insecurities out of fear, allowing them to grow.
(470) 414-5134 View (470) 414-5134
Photo of Melissa Dickinson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Melissa Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
13 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
Therapy and coaching are professional connected relationships where you explore new options with room to grow. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
Therapy and coaching are professional connected relationships where you explore new options with room to grow. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
(706) 508-4993 View (706) 508-4993

See more therapy options for 30317

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 30317

200+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in 30317 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
79% Coping Skills
75% Self Esteem
68% Stress
63% Grief
59% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
96% BlueCross and BlueShield
96% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 30317 see their clients

85% Online Only
15% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 30317?

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.