Therapists in 34234

Photo of Shari James, RN
Shari James
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34234
I specialize in working with men struggling with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation who do not want to take male enhancement pills, have taken them and did not get results or cannot take them because of side effects. I also specialize in: Premature Ejaculation, Delayed Ejaculation, Performance Anxiety, and Porn Addiction. I have maintained a 99% success rate for 17 years.
I specialize in working with men struggling with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation who do not want to take male enhancement pills, have taken them and did not get results or cannot take them because of side effects. I also specialize in: Premature Ejaculation, Delayed Ejaculation, Performance Anxiety, and Porn Addiction. I have maintained a 99% success rate for 17 years.
(941) 213-7499 View (941) 213-7499
Photo of James M. Benedick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdD
James M. Benedick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling depressed, anxious, hopeless? You're at the point that you've tried everything you can think of and nothing has worked? Are you feeling more and more stressed? Whether a long-standing mental health problem or something that has just cropped up, interfering with your important relationships and daily activities, I can help by introducing solutions and supporting you as you work your way to the life you want. A lot of times, simple changes in the way you communicate with your significant others can improve bad relationships quickly, improve your self-esteem, and get you back on the path of accomplishing your life goals.
Feeling depressed, anxious, hopeless? You're at the point that you've tried everything you can think of and nothing has worked? Are you feeling more and more stressed? Whether a long-standing mental health problem or something that has just cropped up, interfering with your important relationships and daily activities, I can help by introducing solutions and supporting you as you work your way to the life you want. A lot of times, simple changes in the way you communicate with your significant others can improve bad relationships quickly, improve your self-esteem, and get you back on the path of accomplishing your life goals.
(941) 348-1235 View (941) 348-1235
Photo of Jennifer Humphries, Counselor, LMHC, MA, QS
Jennifer Humphries
Counselor, LMHC, MA, QS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello and welcome! I have over 20 years working with individuals, couples, children and families. (I am a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC Florida interns and available to supervise online and in person). Counseling is offered online. My professional experience includes working with clients in the following areas (including but not limited to): couples counseling, divorce/separation/parent coaching, anxiety, child welfare, family conflict, depression, life skills, domestic violence, life transitions, career counseling, trauma and abuse, ADHD, substance abuse, and much more. See JenniferHumphries.com for more information!
Hello and welcome! I have over 20 years working with individuals, couples, children and families. (I am a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC Florida interns and available to supervise online and in person). Counseling is offered online. My professional experience includes working with clients in the following areas (including but not limited to): couples counseling, divorce/separation/parent coaching, anxiety, child welfare, family conflict, depression, life skills, domestic violence, life transitions, career counseling, trauma and abuse, ADHD, substance abuse, and much more. See JenniferHumphries.com for more information!
(941) 770-3981 View (941) 770-3981
Photo of Claudia Iantorno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Claudia Iantorno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello, I would be happy to schedule an appointment with you. My style is warm, non-judgmental and compassionate, utilizing a motivational and supportive approach. The objective is to meet you where you are at, and focus on what you wish to address. I have many years of experience treating individuals with various concerns. In addition to being a qualified supervisor in Florida, I am licensed as an LCSW-R in New York. Please go to: Doctor on Demand to register for behavioral health services with me, in Florida and New York, fully telehealth. Not in person at this time.
Hello, I would be happy to schedule an appointment with you. My style is warm, non-judgmental and compassionate, utilizing a motivational and supportive approach. The objective is to meet you where you are at, and focus on what you wish to address. I have many years of experience treating individuals with various concerns. In addition to being a qualified supervisor in Florida, I am licensed as an LCSW-R in New York. Please go to: Doctor on Demand to register for behavioral health services with me, in Florida and New York, fully telehealth. Not in person at this time.
(941) 202-6850 View (941) 202-6850
Photo of Patrycja Kucharska - Anxiety Therapy With Patrycja , Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, MS, CTP
Anxiety Therapy With Patrycja
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, MS, CTP
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34234
Are you finding that life is becoming increasingly challenging, with intrusive thoughts occupying your mind around the clock? Are painful memories taking control of your daily stressors, leaving you feeling overwhelmed? If so, it's time to reclaim the power you deserve and learn how to navigate and understand your thoughts. I understand that taking the first step toward therapy can be intimidating, which is why I want to extend a warm welcome to you. Therapy offers a safe space to explore anxiety-inducing thoughts and to find security when grappling with feelings of sadness.
Are you finding that life is becoming increasingly challenging, with intrusive thoughts occupying your mind around the clock? Are painful memories taking control of your daily stressors, leaving you feeling overwhelmed? If so, it's time to reclaim the power you deserve and learn how to navigate and understand your thoughts. I understand that taking the first step toward therapy can be intimidating, which is why I want to extend a warm welcome to you. Therapy offers a safe space to explore anxiety-inducing thoughts and to find security when grappling with feelings of sadness.
(941) 877-6711 View (941) 877-6711
Photo of Judith Rio Collins - Rio Collins, Psy.D., Psychologist, PsyD
Rio Collins, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
The best therapy always starts with being accurately listened to, so you can feel deeply known. Then as we learn more about yourself, you build your inner awareness of your emotions, thinking patterns and interpersonal processes. I will be with you in each moment, neutrally observing you, and coaching you to do the same for yourself. Watching together instead of judging. Moving your personal narrative into your embodied experience. We then work together applying many tools for change. My therapeutic style supports you, taking your vague desires, or back burner dreams and making them into actionable words, goals, tools.
The best therapy always starts with being accurately listened to, so you can feel deeply known. Then as we learn more about yourself, you build your inner awareness of your emotions, thinking patterns and interpersonal processes. I will be with you in each moment, neutrally observing you, and coaching you to do the same for yourself. Watching together instead of judging. Moving your personal narrative into your embodied experience. We then work together applying many tools for change. My therapeutic style supports you, taking your vague desires, or back burner dreams and making them into actionable words, goals, tools.
(980) 446-3487 View (980) 446-3487
Photo of Luisa Lomonaco-Metivier, Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Luisa Lomonaco-Metivier
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for a meaningful change in your life? Imagine having a trusted partner to guide you, helping you find clarity and balance. That's where I come in. Hi, I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with over 20 years of experience working with adults and children. My approach is warm, empathetic, and solution focused, providing a safe place to explore your challenges, and take steps forward toward positive growth.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for a meaningful change in your life? Imagine having a trusted partner to guide you, helping you find clarity and balance. That's where I come in. Hi, I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with over 20 years of experience working with adults and children. My approach is warm, empathetic, and solution focused, providing a safe place to explore your challenges, and take steps forward toward positive growth.
(941) 326-3574 View (941) 326-3574
Photo of Dr. Susan Moschos - SheStorm Psychological Solutions, LLC, Psychologist, PhD
SheStorm Psychological Solutions, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34234
A messy divorce? Dating? Fear of aging? Work-life balance? Lost yourself in societal expectations? Check, check, and check. Challenging life events can result in struggles with anxiety, fear, anger, shame, perfectionism, self-hatred, or depression? Life is too short to live like this. I promise, there is another way! My life's purpose is to help women to live their lives authentically, purposefully, and with joy.
A messy divorce? Dating? Fear of aging? Work-life balance? Lost yourself in societal expectations? Check, check, and check. Challenging life events can result in struggles with anxiety, fear, anger, shame, perfectionism, self-hatred, or depression? Life is too short to live like this. I promise, there is another way! My life's purpose is to help women to live their lives authentically, purposefully, and with joy.
(941) 841-0475 View (941) 841-0475
Photo of Molly Swift, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Molly Swift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Sarasota, FL 34234
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, disordered eating, an eating disorder, or generally feeling stuck in patterns that don’t align with the life you want to live (or the person you want to be)? Do you feel overwhelmed with shame, perfectionism, or social pressures? Maybe you’re neurodivergent (or suspect you may be), and would like to explore your unique strengths & challenges. If your goals include building resilience and living more authentically and guided by your personal values, it’d be an honor for me to be on your team.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, disordered eating, an eating disorder, or generally feeling stuck in patterns that don’t align with the life you want to live (or the person you want to be)? Do you feel overwhelmed with shame, perfectionism, or social pressures? Maybe you’re neurodivergent (or suspect you may be), and would like to explore your unique strengths & challenges. If your goals include building resilience and living more authentically and guided by your personal values, it’d be an honor for me to be on your team.
(941) 212-0227 View (941) 212-0227
Photo of Nick Ceballo, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Nick Ceballo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Sarasota, FL 34234
Hello, I am Nick Ceballo. Nick has a Masters degree in Counselor Education from Queens College in New York. He has been a Licensed School Counselor (preK-12) since 2016. He has 8 years of experience providing therapy, career counseling and case management services to children, adults, and families in school settings as a school counselor, in the home, and in agency settings. Nick’s passion and specialty is providing therapy services to at-risk youth who struggle with anxiety, depression, behavioral/emotional issues, self-esteem, trauma, ADHD, and Autism. Although Nick specializes with adolescents he enjoys and has experience providi
Hello, I am Nick Ceballo. Nick has a Masters degree in Counselor Education from Queens College in New York. He has been a Licensed School Counselor (preK-12) since 2016. He has 8 years of experience providing therapy, career counseling and case management services to children, adults, and families in school settings as a school counselor, in the home, and in agency settings. Nick’s passion and specialty is providing therapy services to at-risk youth who struggle with anxiety, depression, behavioral/emotional issues, self-esteem, trauma, ADHD, and Autism. Although Nick specializes with adolescents he enjoys and has experience providi
(941) 999-3354 View (941) 999-3354
Photo of Patricia Behn-Wright, Counselor, MA, ATR, LMHC
Patricia Behn-Wright
Counselor, MA, ATR, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My journey in mental health has given me a diverse toolkit—harm reduction, trauma-informed care, art therapy, CBT, crisis management, motivational interviewing, positive discipline, and Adlerian theory. I’ve worked with clients of all ages on issues like mood disorders, chronic pain, trauma, PTSD, stress, anger management, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, grief, addictions, and codependency. I’m passionate about mental health because it shapes our identity and well-being. Learning to cope with uncomfortable emotions builds resilience—even when early emotional growth was stunted.
My journey in mental health has given me a diverse toolkit—harm reduction, trauma-informed care, art therapy, CBT, crisis management, motivational interviewing, positive discipline, and Adlerian theory. I’ve worked with clients of all ages on issues like mood disorders, chronic pain, trauma, PTSD, stress, anger management, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, grief, addictions, and codependency. I’m passionate about mental health because it shapes our identity and well-being. Learning to cope with uncomfortable emotions builds resilience—even when early emotional growth was stunted.
(813) 669-0838 View (813) 669-0838
Photo of DeAnn Fleming, Counselor, LMHC, SEP
DeAnn Fleming
Counselor, LMHC, SEP
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34234
Are you experiencing difficulties with work, family, or relationship stress? Perhaps you're feeling sadness or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, or maybe you're dealing with worry accompanied by physical symptoms of anxiety? If you're having trouble finding a therapist who truly understands your needs and goals, I may be able to offer support. I specialize in treating complex trauma, including shock and attachment-related wounds, mood disruptions, complex personality patterns, and anxiety. I also have experience assisting individuals in navigating the complexities of trauma we hold in our bodies.
Are you experiencing difficulties with work, family, or relationship stress? Perhaps you're feeling sadness or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, or maybe you're dealing with worry accompanied by physical symptoms of anxiety? If you're having trouble finding a therapist who truly understands your needs and goals, I may be able to offer support. I specialize in treating complex trauma, including shock and attachment-related wounds, mood disruptions, complex personality patterns, and anxiety. I also have experience assisting individuals in navigating the complexities of trauma we hold in our bodies.
(813) 533-5997 View (813) 533-5997
Photo of Dave Stacho, Counselor, LMHC
Dave Stacho
Counselor, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34234
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 23 years, with a specialty in counseling couples with relationship difficulties, individuals with mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, and those in need of life coaching strategies. I also provide anger and stress management programs. In addition, I offer sport counseling, exercise, and weight control sessions. My role is to help you formulate and achieve your goals.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 23 years, with a specialty in counseling couples with relationship difficulties, individuals with mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, and those in need of life coaching strategies. I also provide anger and stress management programs. In addition, I offer sport counseling, exercise, and weight control sessions. My role is to help you formulate and achieve your goals.
(941) 348-2819 View (941) 348-2819
Photo of Alice H Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Alice H Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Online Only
My practice has evolved to using only telehealth and televideo. My specialty is working with people from age 30 up on identity crises, personal reinvention, financial stressors, retirement, downsizing, dealing with feelings of loss, change, anxiety and depression. I have worked with entire families, individuals and couples. There are a lot of misunderstandings between generations and between people. I act as a communication translator to help get people to understand one another. I am licensed to practice in MA and FL but geography should not be a limit so I can work with you outside of those two states as a life coach.
My practice has evolved to using only telehealth and televideo. My specialty is working with people from age 30 up on identity crises, personal reinvention, financial stressors, retirement, downsizing, dealing with feelings of loss, change, anxiety and depression. I have worked with entire families, individuals and couples. There are a lot of misunderstandings between generations and between people. I act as a communication translator to help get people to understand one another. I am licensed to practice in MA and FL but geography should not be a limit so I can work with you outside of those two states as a life coach.
(508) 952-0943 View (508) 952-0943
Photo of Allison Pinto, Psychologist, PhD
Allison Pinto
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Hi, I’m a licensed infant, child and adolescent psychologist working with families with children from birth to age 18. I offer short-term, focused support that’s grounded in your family’s strengths and tailored to your child’s developmental needs. Whether you're facing transitions, emotional or behavioral concerns, or parenting stress, we’ll work together to support your child’s growth and resilience. I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of mental health—and partnering with parents and caregivers is central to every step we take. My goal is to help your family navigate day-to-day with clarity and confidence.
Hi, I’m a licensed infant, child and adolescent psychologist working with families with children from birth to age 18. I offer short-term, focused support that’s grounded in your family’s strengths and tailored to your child’s developmental needs. Whether you're facing transitions, emotional or behavioral concerns, or parenting stress, we’ll work together to support your child’s growth and resilience. I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of mental health—and partnering with parents and caregivers is central to every step we take. My goal is to help your family navigate day-to-day with clarity and confidence.
(941) 882-9228 View (941) 882-9228
Photo of Edward J. Whyte - Dr. Edward J. Whyte, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Edward J. Whyte
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
A better understanding of yourself. Identify what brought you to therapy. Together we will determine the underlying problems. Taking the time we need, our goal will be to establish a plan to give you confidence to resolve the issues and empower you to take control of your future and be at peace
A better understanding of yourself. Identify what brought you to therapy. Together we will determine the underlying problems. Taking the time we need, our goal will be to establish a plan to give you confidence to resolve the issues and empower you to take control of your future and be at peace
(813) 607-2335 View (813) 607-2335
Photo of Silvana McDevitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Silvana McDevitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a LCSW specialized in working with older children, teens, and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, OCD symptoms, low self-esteem, boundary challenges, interpersonal problems, and trauma. I also enjoy working with neurodiverse clients in developing skills and strategies to help them navigate their daily lives. I strive to work with clients to blend practical strategies, coping skills, thought restructuring, mindfulness, problem solving, and other approaches to help them overcome day-to-day stressors and process previous traumatic or stressful events.
I am a LCSW specialized in working with older children, teens, and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, OCD symptoms, low self-esteem, boundary challenges, interpersonal problems, and trauma. I also enjoy working with neurodiverse clients in developing skills and strategies to help them navigate their daily lives. I strive to work with clients to blend practical strategies, coping skills, thought restructuring, mindfulness, problem solving, and other approaches to help them overcome day-to-day stressors and process previous traumatic or stressful events.
(941) 231-5168 View (941) 231-5168
Photo of Shauna Bispham, Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS, CCTP
Shauna Bispham
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS, CCTP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you want change in your life, I can help. I believe everyone has the strength and courage within themselves to find the "answers" they are seeking; therapy is the process of discovering these "answers." I want to help you find your answers and can offer non-judgmental support so that you can be a healthier, stronger you. I graduated from Argosy University, earning my Masters of Art degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a graduate from the University of South Florida's Bachelors of Art Program with a degree in Psychology.
If you want change in your life, I can help. I believe everyone has the strength and courage within themselves to find the "answers" they are seeking; therapy is the process of discovering these "answers." I want to help you find your answers and can offer non-judgmental support so that you can be a healthier, stronger you. I graduated from Argosy University, earning my Masters of Art degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a graduate from the University of South Florida's Bachelors of Art Program with a degree in Psychology.
(941) 548-4187 View (941) 548-4187
Photo of Demetrius K Jifunza, Counselor, LMHC
Demetrius K Jifunza
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Welcome, My name is Demetrius K. Jifunza. I am a passionate licensed mental health counselor supporting clients in reestablishing balance to imbalances in their lives. I hold the firm belief that people are perfectly imperfect and often become stuck in life’s challenges, causing unhappiness and an inability to live fulfilling lives. I am integrative in my approach to therapy, consisting of solution-focused, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
Welcome, My name is Demetrius K. Jifunza. I am a passionate licensed mental health counselor supporting clients in reestablishing balance to imbalances in their lives. I hold the firm belief that people are perfectly imperfect and often become stuck in life’s challenges, causing unhappiness and an inability to live fulfilling lives. I am integrative in my approach to therapy, consisting of solution-focused, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
(941) 231-6231 View (941) 231-6231
Photo of Mary T Skinner, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Mary T Skinner
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Online Only
I offer Online therapeutic services to reach all of Florida State. So I am lighting the candle while you sit back, take 3 slow breaths in and out, and say to yourself, “I am in control.” You are the only one in control of your thoughts, your behaviors, and your reactions. My goal is to work with you as you gain coping skills until you can maintain your control once again. But what if you never felt that control or felt that confidence. I focus on the ‘present’ & ‘here and now’ because this moment matters more than the past or future. This is where we can work on perspective, which changes behavior.
I offer Online therapeutic services to reach all of Florida State. So I am lighting the candle while you sit back, take 3 slow breaths in and out, and say to yourself, “I am in control.” You are the only one in control of your thoughts, your behaviors, and your reactions. My goal is to work with you as you gain coping skills until you can maintain your control once again. But what if you never felt that control or felt that confidence. I focus on the ‘present’ & ‘here and now’ because this moment matters more than the past or future. This is where we can work on perspective, which changes behavior.
(941) 960-7558 View (941) 960-7558

See more therapy options for 34234

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 34234

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 34234 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
93% Depression
88% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
61% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth
52% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 34234 see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 34234?

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.