Photo of Danielle S Dance, PhD, LCP, C-DBT, CCTP, Psychologist
Danielle S Dance
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, C-DBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My primary goal is to help people better understand what is happening in their lives, the role we each play in problems and how to make small, but powerful changes to improve interactions.
My primary goal is to help people better understand what is happening in their lives, the role we each play in problems and how to make small, but powerful changes to improve interactions.
(941) 541-2690 View (941) 541-2690
Photo of Stefanie Kalski, LMHC, MS
Stefanie Kalski
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, teens, and young adults in a relaxed, non-judgmental setting. I help kids who’ve gone through tough times or trauma find ways to heal. As a licensed counselor in Florida, I use proven methods to address emotional and behavioral challenges, ensuring that your child is in good hands. I use play therapy for younger children to help them express their feelings and improve communication. I also work closely with parents to understand and support their child’s needs.
I work with children, teens, and young adults in a relaxed, non-judgmental setting. I help kids who’ve gone through tough times or trauma find ways to heal. As a licensed counselor in Florida, I use proven methods to address emotional and behavioral challenges, ensuring that your child is in good hands. I use play therapy for younger children to help them express their feelings and improve communication. I also work closely with parents to understand and support their child’s needs.
(786) 244-2289 View (786) 244-2289
Photo of Demetrius K Jifunza, LMHC, Counselor
Demetrius K Jifunza
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (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 Rachel Bythrow, Rachel, Bythrow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Bythrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Rachel, Bythrow, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
It can feel overwhelming trying to get through life's struggles on our own. I am here to help empower you to develop positive coping strategies. I have experience working with adults, women, and clients who have communication issues in their relationships. I am passionate about helping my clients navigate stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
It can feel overwhelming trying to get through life's struggles on our own. I am here to help empower you to develop positive coping strategies. I have experience working with adults, women, and clients who have communication issues in their relationships. I am passionate about helping my clients navigate stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
(941) 269-1379 View (941) 269-1379
Photo of Calvin E Collins - Pieces of a Dream Counseling Center,   Dr. Collins, LMHC, EdD, NBCC, MA, Counselor
Pieces of a Dream Counseling Center, Dr. Collins
Counselor, LMHC, EdD, NBCC, MA
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
Currently Serving New York and Florida. Welcome to Pieces of a Dream Counseling Center. I am Doctor Collins I have been serving the public for 35 years. I use Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. I will help to find the Joys of life that you may have lost. Call Now for an appointment. 941-237-1199. Call using Face Time, Google Duo, Phone Session. If you're restless, irritable, guilt, depression, or relieve feeling of helplessness. One problem can cause other issues: substance use, impulse control (gambling), anxiety disorders,
Currently Serving New York and Florida. Welcome to Pieces of a Dream Counseling Center. I am Doctor Collins I have been serving the public for 35 years. I use Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. I will help to find the Joys of life that you may have lost. Call Now for an appointment. 941-237-1199. Call using Face Time, Google Duo, Phone Session. If you're restless, irritable, guilt, depression, or relieve feeling of helplessness. One problem can cause other issues: substance use, impulse control (gambling), anxiety disorders,
(941) 225-2571 View (941) 225-2571
Photo of Amanda McDonald Kennard, EdD, LMHC, NBCC, Counselor
Amanda McDonald Kennard
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
The struggle is real and transitions in life are hard. If you are struggling with life's challenges, you are NOT alone. My name is Dr. Amanda M. Kennard and I will assist you in changing your life. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Board Certified Counselor. I create individualized interventions for each client, no matter how hard the problem. I meet each client where they currently are in their life and assist them in attaining where they want to be in their life.
The struggle is real and transitions in life are hard. If you are struggling with life's challenges, you are NOT alone. My name is Dr. Amanda M. Kennard and I will assist you in changing your life. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Board Certified Counselor. I create individualized interventions for each client, no matter how hard the problem. I meet each client where they currently are in their life and assist them in attaining where they want to be in their life.
(941) 344-2316 View (941) 344-2316
Photo of Marissa E Bracco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa E Bracco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
Hello! I am so happy that you have made this first step toward feeling better and I look forward to starting the journey with you. My name is Marissa Pinto and I have over 15 years of experience as a social worker. I have experience with both children and adults.
Hello! I am so happy that you have made this first step toward feeling better and I look forward to starting the journey with you. My name is Marissa Pinto and I have over 15 years of experience as a social worker. I have experience with both children and adults.
(941) 740-6274 View (941) 740-6274
Photo of Melissa Barreto, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Barreto
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
Are you feeling hopeless? Stuck? Anxious? Stressed? Uncomfortable in your skin or in your relationships? Do you have past or recent trauma you would like to work through? We all know that pain in life is unavoidable, but I'd love to help you carry that burden while we work towards solutions. I aim to create a space where you will not be judged, but will be fully supported as we navigate through your concerns and fears. I believe that you are the expert on your life, and will bring my expertise in therapy to collaboratively find the relief and the balance that you seek.
Are you feeling hopeless? Stuck? Anxious? Stressed? Uncomfortable in your skin or in your relationships? Do you have past or recent trauma you would like to work through? We all know that pain in life is unavoidable, but I'd love to help you carry that burden while we work towards solutions. I aim to create a space where you will not be judged, but will be fully supported as we navigate through your concerns and fears. I believe that you are the expert on your life, and will bring my expertise in therapy to collaboratively find the relief and the balance that you seek.
(941) 882-9439 View (941) 882-9439
Photo of Jodee Pineau Chaisson, LMHC, Counselor
Jodee Pineau Chaisson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286
Through the process of therapy, you can develop new ways of dealing with conflicts, communication difficulties, grief and loss, and many other daily concerns. In a non-judgmental and supportive environment, you can make positive changes for a stronger today and future. I believe that addressing the relationship between couples may require a “sacred space”. This safe space can allow the therapist to work with couples in breaking down walls that may have kept them trapped in overwhelming situations, and aid them in developing deeper connections
Through the process of therapy, you can develop new ways of dealing with conflicts, communication difficulties, grief and loss, and many other daily concerns. In a non-judgmental and supportive environment, you can make positive changes for a stronger today and future. I believe that addressing the relationship between couples may require a “sacred space”. This safe space can allow the therapist to work with couples in breaking down walls that may have kept them trapped in overwhelming situations, and aid them in developing deeper connections
(941) 336-5816 View (941) 336-5816
Photo of Cecilia Baez, LCMHC, Counselor
Cecilia Baez
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286
My name is Cecilia Baez and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) located in Florida. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I have over 15 years of experience and a strong background in addressing parenting and family concerns, as well as assisting children and adolescents dealing with behavioral issues, defiance, anxiety, ADHD, depression, and stress. In addition, I have experience working with individuals who face depression, anxiety, domestic violence, emotional distress, isolation, grief, self-harm, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
My name is Cecilia Baez and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) located in Florida. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I have over 15 years of experience and a strong background in addressing parenting and family concerns, as well as assisting children and adolescents dealing with behavioral issues, defiance, anxiety, ADHD, depression, and stress. In addition, I have experience working with individuals who face depression, anxiety, domestic violence, emotional distress, isolation, grief, self-harm, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
(727) 761-3057 View (727) 761-3057
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Lieberman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34286
I enjoy engaging with people about their lives, hearing what matters to them, what's meaningful, and encouraging them to live lives in alignment with those preferences. I partner with people to feel the permission really to be alive. I find it important to keep the work connected to what clients value; that fuels the resilience to tolerate change, hard conversations, and uncomfortable feelings (common elements of therapy). Given this, my ideal client/s is interested in feeling more self-acceptance, capacity to tolerate others, and to face unhelpful, old patterns with love in order to encourage choice and the possibility of change.
I enjoy engaging with people about their lives, hearing what matters to them, what's meaningful, and encouraging them to live lives in alignment with those preferences. I partner with people to feel the permission really to be alive. I find it important to keep the work connected to what clients value; that fuels the resilience to tolerate change, hard conversations, and uncomfortable feelings (common elements of therapy). Given this, my ideal client/s is interested in feeling more self-acceptance, capacity to tolerate others, and to face unhelpful, old patterns with love in order to encourage choice and the possibility of change.
(941) 393-0305 View (941) 393-0305
Photo of Christina J Lerch, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Christina J Lerch
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Port, FL 34286
Sad? Stressed? Overwhelmed? Relationship conflicts? Life not going the way you planned? Feeling hopeless? Feeling alone? No one understands? I believe that most of our struggles start with our wounds. We are all wounded. We will walk down the path to recovery together. We will focus on your strengths, not your failures. A compassionate ear without judgment is what you can expect. An understanding environment is what you will experience. I offer a variety of modalities with an eclectic and individualized approach. No two therapy sessions are exactly alike.
Sad? Stressed? Overwhelmed? Relationship conflicts? Life not going the way you planned? Feeling hopeless? Feeling alone? No one understands? I believe that most of our struggles start with our wounds. We are all wounded. We will walk down the path to recovery together. We will focus on your strengths, not your failures. A compassionate ear without judgment is what you can expect. An understanding environment is what you will experience. I offer a variety of modalities with an eclectic and individualized approach. No two therapy sessions are exactly alike.
(941) 770-3266 View (941) 770-3266
Photo of Judith Steiner, LMHC, TIRT, LSRT, Counselor
Judith Steiner
Counselor, LMHC, TIRT, LSRT
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286
Not accepting new clients
Judith Steiner is a LMHC, Certified TIR Trainer and Facilitator, Certified LSR Trainer and Facilitator, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, LMHC Intern Supervisor and TIR Certification Committee Member. She has been in private practice in Venice, FL since 1990. Her practice encompasses trauma and its associated disorders, as well as addictions, depression and anxiety. She treats trauma with a technique called Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR). TIR has been approved by SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the US Government) and is listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices.
Judith Steiner is a LMHC, Certified TIR Trainer and Facilitator, Certified LSR Trainer and Facilitator, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, LMHC Intern Supervisor and TIR Certification Committee Member. She has been in private practice in Venice, FL since 1990. Her practice encompasses trauma and its associated disorders, as well as addictions, depression and anxiety. She treats trauma with a technique called Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR). TIR has been approved by SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the US Government) and is listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices.
(941) 270-3583 View (941) 270-3583
Photo of Lisa R Richardson, LMHC, NCC, IATP, LPC, Counselor
Lisa R Richardson
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, IATP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34286  (Online Only)
As a Master's level Art Therapist, my practice incorporates the creative process with a Humanistic approach to help you develop healthy coping skills to manage emotions, moods, and behaviors. The union of art and psychology helps increase feelings of self-esteem and self-worth as you discover your strengths and life potential. When words are not enough, we use the creative process as a tool to facilitate exploration of beliefs, identifying the root cause of challenges that disrupt balance in daily functioning. In sessions, we will work in areas of mindfulness, identifying and establishing personal boundaries, and managing emotions.
As a Master's level Art Therapist, my practice incorporates the creative process with a Humanistic approach to help you develop healthy coping skills to manage emotions, moods, and behaviors. The union of art and psychology helps increase feelings of self-esteem and self-worth as you discover your strengths and life potential. When words are not enough, we use the creative process as a tool to facilitate exploration of beliefs, identifying the root cause of challenges that disrupt balance in daily functioning. In sessions, we will work in areas of mindfulness, identifying and establishing personal boundaries, and managing emotions.
(941) 876-5054 View (941) 876-5054
Photo of Angela Steranko, PsyD, Psychologist
Angela Steranko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
North Port, FL 34286
Are you concerned about your child's stress level or low mood? Perhaps you are you just hoping to get through the day without your child having a major meltdown or lashing out. It may be time to seek support in therapy. I am highly experienced in working with children, adolescents and young adults through their 20's. I offer a relaxed, judgement-free atmosphere to help guide families through challenges and provide support through approaches based on research.
Are you concerned about your child's stress level or low mood? Perhaps you are you just hoping to get through the day without your child having a major meltdown or lashing out. It may be time to seek support in therapy. I am highly experienced in working with children, adolescents and young adults through their 20's. I offer a relaxed, judgement-free atmosphere to help guide families through challenges and provide support through approaches based on research.
(941) 840-5187 View (941) 840-5187
Photo of Cristina F Finnegan, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Cristina F Finnegan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286
I offer Individual, Family, Couples and Group Counseling. I also accept many private insurances, as well as work on a sliding scale for all self-pay individuals. I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you and provide you with a safe and private environment during this time. We are approved through the Charlotte County Courts, probation, pre-trial services and Judges to help clients with court requirements for drug/alcohol testing or court mandated treatment. Please contact me to discuss your individual needs.
I offer Individual, Family, Couples and Group Counseling. I also accept many private insurances, as well as work on a sliding scale for all self-pay individuals. I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you and provide you with a safe and private environment during this time. We are approved through the Charlotte County Courts, probation, pre-trial services and Judges to help clients with court requirements for drug/alcohol testing or court mandated treatment. Please contact me to discuss your individual needs.
(941) 214-4953 View (941) 214-4953
Photo of Jenny Upton, MA, LMHC, QS, CSAT, Counselor
Jenny Upton
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS, CSAT
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286
Has your world been blown apart by the discovery of an affair and/or pornography addiciton? You can feel lost, alone, hopeless, and confused. There is hope. You are not alone. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and Co-Director of Eagle's Wings Counseling Center. We have a comprehensive program designed to help both the wounded spouse and the offending spouse navigate through and heal from what has happened. Whether you are staying together, divorcing, or unsure of what you want for the future, there is hope and healing for you!
Has your world been blown apart by the discovery of an affair and/or pornography addiciton? You can feel lost, alone, hopeless, and confused. There is hope. You are not alone. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and Co-Director of Eagle's Wings Counseling Center. We have a comprehensive program designed to help both the wounded spouse and the offending spouse navigate through and heal from what has happened. Whether you are staying together, divorcing, or unsure of what you want for the future, there is hope and healing for you!
(941) 213-7483 View (941) 213-7483
Photo of Catherine Bukovitz, EdD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, CAP, Counselor
Catherine Bukovitz
Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, CAP
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
A happy life is your birthright. Together in a respectful and collaborative relationship we can determine what prevents you from the experience of life you want and were intended to have. I keep up to date with the latest research in psychotherapy and brain neurology and substance abuse, depression, anxiety, unstable personal or work relationships. I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) which is the only non-medicinal therapy in effectively treating trauma and post traumatic stress disorder.
A happy life is your birthright. Together in a respectful and collaborative relationship we can determine what prevents you from the experience of life you want and were intended to have. I keep up to date with the latest research in psychotherapy and brain neurology and substance abuse, depression, anxiety, unstable personal or work relationships. I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) which is the only non-medicinal therapy in effectively treating trauma and post traumatic stress disorder.
(941) 206-2480 View (941) 206-2480
Photo of Heather D. Eslien, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Heather D. Eslien
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34286
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
(941) 584-5091 View (941) 584-5091
Photo of Ellen C Ferguson, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Ellen C Ferguson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
(941) 304-5250 View (941) 304-5250
1

See more therapy options for 34286

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 34286

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 34286 who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
84% Depression
79% Coping Skills
71% Grief
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Aetna
65% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 34286 see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 34286?

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.