Photo of Dr. Carol Stoney, PhD, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Dr. Carol Stoney
Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Healthy relationships are not the mystery that most of us believe them to be. Love may be the reason that we commit to a relationship, but few know how to sustain that wonderful, secure feeling. There are skills that all of us must learn in order to create and manage our relationships so that our dreams don't go the way of statistics and have us end up separated from our loved one. While individual therapy has been linked to worsening relationship issues, my research-based training provides the opposite: HOPE. Let me work with you to stop the negative patterns that are taking you away from the partnership you wish to have.
Healthy relationships are not the mystery that most of us believe them to be. Love may be the reason that we commit to a relationship, but few know how to sustain that wonderful, secure feeling. There are skills that all of us must learn in order to create and manage our relationships so that our dreams don't go the way of statistics and have us end up separated from our loved one. While individual therapy has been linked to worsening relationship issues, my research-based training provides the opposite: HOPE. Let me work with you to stop the negative patterns that are taking you away from the partnership you wish to have.
(423) 300-6992 View (423) 300-6992
Photo of Nicolette Tomaszewski, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicolette Tomaszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Lookout Mountain, TN 37350  (Online Only)
As a perfectionist, overachieving woman, you have worked hard to get to where you are today. Hyper-independence is your middle name. But even with all your achievements, you still worry it's not enough. You constantly push yourself to be better and achieve more, rarely stopping to celebrate your wins. You struggle with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, and overwhelm, and find it difficult to turn off your thoughts and relax. You feel like you are constantly on the brink of burn out. You may have unresolved childhood trauma that continues to impact you. You know something needs to change, you just aren't sure of what or how.
As a perfectionist, overachieving woman, you have worked hard to get to where you are today. Hyper-independence is your middle name. But even with all your achievements, you still worry it's not enough. You constantly push yourself to be better and achieve more, rarely stopping to celebrate your wins. You struggle with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, and overwhelm, and find it difficult to turn off your thoughts and relax. You feel like you are constantly on the brink of burn out. You may have unresolved childhood trauma that continues to impact you. You know something needs to change, you just aren't sure of what or how.
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Photo of Laura Ward, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Not accepting new clients
I believe everyone is living their unique life story with its highs and lows. In moments of distress, confusion, and loss, I am honored to come alongside you and help you write a better story for your future. Whether you're struggling with relationships, emotional upheaval, or traumatic loss, I desire to provide the support and skills that will enable you to find hope and healing.
I believe everyone is living their unique life story with its highs and lows. In moments of distress, confusion, and loss, I am honored to come alongside you and help you write a better story for your future. Whether you're struggling with relationships, emotional upheaval, or traumatic loss, I desire to provide the support and skills that will enable you to find hope and healing.
(423) 799-4825 View (423) 799-4825
Photo of Judy K Herman, LPC, MHSP, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judy K Herman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Executive Relational Coaching & Counseling for ambitious women in helping professions. Gain emotional grounding to navigate & eliminate relationship stress in the 9-to-5 workplace & the 24/7 life space. Whether you seek couples or individual work, you know that something has to change & you're unsure of what you need. Previous couples counseling didn't last. The challenges are time & cooperation. You're unsure of which direction to take. Get crystal clear & save time with your initial Precision Session: a thorough 90 minute diagnostic road map which gets you clear & brings massive value & confidence with your next right steps.
Executive Relational Coaching & Counseling for ambitious women in helping professions. Gain emotional grounding to navigate & eliminate relationship stress in the 9-to-5 workplace & the 24/7 life space. Whether you seek couples or individual work, you know that something has to change & you're unsure of what you need. Previous couples counseling didn't last. The challenges are time & cooperation. You're unsure of which direction to take. Get crystal clear & save time with your initial Precision Session: a thorough 90 minute diagnostic road map which gets you clear & brings massive value & confidence with your next right steps.
(423) 556-8791 View (423) 556-8791
Photo of Christy Call, MHSP, NCC, LMFT, MPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christy Call
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, NCC, LMFT, MPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ever feel like the princess-and-the-pea: so acutely aware of something to the point of distraction and pain, but unable to get relief? And on top of that, no one else seems to get it? Or maybe you’re like Goldilocks: trying to find your “just right” of whatever it is you’re seeking, but your problem-solving keeps coming up short? Perhaps you believe fairytale analogies are irrelevant and are thinking, I just want help, literally. If any of this resonates, let’s talk.
Ever feel like the princess-and-the-pea: so acutely aware of something to the point of distraction and pain, but unable to get relief? And on top of that, no one else seems to get it? Or maybe you’re like Goldilocks: trying to find your “just right” of whatever it is you’re seeking, but your problem-solving keeps coming up short? Perhaps you believe fairytale analogies are irrelevant and are thinking, I just want help, literally. If any of this resonates, let’s talk.
(423) 205-4456 View (423) 205-4456
Victoria J Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Why Play Therapy? This is a frequently asked question. I believe that through play, children express themselves in their own developmentally appropriate way. Through play and other expressive therapies, children can resolve problems, cope with difficult emotions,improve cognitive development and help resolve inner conflicts. Although I work mainly with children, my education and training also allow me the opportunity to work with adults on certain issues.
Why Play Therapy? This is a frequently asked question. I believe that through play, children express themselves in their own developmentally appropriate way. Through play and other expressive therapies, children can resolve problems, cope with difficult emotions,improve cognitive development and help resolve inner conflicts. Although I work mainly with children, my education and training also allow me the opportunity to work with adults on certain issues.
(423) 464-4354 View (423) 464-4354
Photo of Erin Rayburn, LMFT, LPC-MHS, NCC, EAGALA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Rayburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-MHS, NCC, EAGALA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Stressed? Tired? Can’t seem to get ahead? Don't like yourself? Finding that sense of security and strength in the midst of changes, challenges, and relationships is difficult, and some feel that taking time to stop and reflect is impossible; yet often it is one of the most important steps in moving forward or getting unstuck. Stopping and working with a trained therapist can help facilitate change in meaningful and impactful ways. It can also help avoid a complete life derailment. I believe that the work I do with my clients is sacred, which is why I employee some of the most up to date and clinically validated treatment techniques.
Stressed? Tired? Can’t seem to get ahead? Don't like yourself? Finding that sense of security and strength in the midst of changes, challenges, and relationships is difficult, and some feel that taking time to stop and reflect is impossible; yet often it is one of the most important steps in moving forward or getting unstuck. Stopping and working with a trained therapist can help facilitate change in meaningful and impactful ways. It can also help avoid a complete life derailment. I believe that the work I do with my clients is sacred, which is why I employee some of the most up to date and clinically validated treatment techniques.
(423) 218-4940 View (423) 218-4940
Photo of Julia B Coffin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia B Coffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
Good therapy helps promote clarity and progress toward change. I believe that therapy can provide the safety needed for self-exploration and for support in times of stress. And I believe that this safety is created through a trusting therapeutic alliance, which I rely heavily on in my practice. As a clinical social worker, I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults who have a broad range of reasons for seeking therapy - these may include anxiety, depression, family conflict, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, parenting concerns, trauma, and loss.
Good therapy helps promote clarity and progress toward change. I believe that therapy can provide the safety needed for self-exploration and for support in times of stress. And I believe that this safety is created through a trusting therapeutic alliance, which I rely heavily on in my practice. As a clinical social worker, I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults who have a broad range of reasons for seeking therapy - these may include anxiety, depression, family conflict, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, parenting concerns, trauma, and loss.
(423) 401-9306 View (423) 401-9306
Photo of Wesley Nichols, MS, LMFT, QTAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wesley Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, QTAP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
We all have areas of our lives where we feel stuck. We can’t seem to figure out what’s going on inside us or in our situations. Even if we see a problem, we might not know how to navigate it. Counseling is an experience that helps you safely explore these places to make sense of your experience and find more clarity for the experiences to come. Together, we sift through the combination of thoughts, emotions, experiences, and patterns that make up who we are to find deeper understanding, clarity, and peace.
We all have areas of our lives where we feel stuck. We can’t seem to figure out what’s going on inside us or in our situations. Even if we see a problem, we might not know how to navigate it. Counseling is an experience that helps you safely explore these places to make sense of your experience and find more clarity for the experiences to come. Together, we sift through the combination of thoughts, emotions, experiences, and patterns that make up who we are to find deeper understanding, clarity, and peace.
(423) 301-5621 View (423) 301-5621
Photo of Anna Glass Clower, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anna Glass Clower
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
"Well, this isn’t working! What do I do now?" If you are wondering this, I welcome whatever you have to discuss. I love to see a client walk into the room, bursting with the issues carried on the heart, and experience the relief that comes from finally sharing these burdens out loud in a safe space. I see mostly women and female adolescents, plus a few men who want to dig deep. I work best with people who are ready to explore, looking for change, but aren't sure of how to get there.
"Well, this isn’t working! What do I do now?" If you are wondering this, I welcome whatever you have to discuss. I love to see a client walk into the room, bursting with the issues carried on the heart, and experience the relief that comes from finally sharing these burdens out loud in a safe space. I see mostly women and female adolescents, plus a few men who want to dig deep. I work best with people who are ready to explore, looking for change, but aren't sure of how to get there.
(423) 793-3062 View (423) 793-3062
Photo of Abby Horton, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Horton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
My therapeutic approach is rooted in collaboration, authenticity, and compassion. My goal is to create an environment in which you can explore your own path as I support and guide you through achieving your goals. No matter the circumstance, everyone is worthy of a space to process their challenges and reach their full potential. I believe that healing is not a linear process, and each individual has a unique path to self-discovery and achieving wellness. I am hopeful for the opportunity to help you build better, stronger connections with yourself and others, and ultimately, to walk alongside you down your own path.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in collaboration, authenticity, and compassion. My goal is to create an environment in which you can explore your own path as I support and guide you through achieving your goals. No matter the circumstance, everyone is worthy of a space to process their challenges and reach their full potential. I believe that healing is not a linear process, and each individual has a unique path to self-discovery and achieving wellness. I am hopeful for the opportunity to help you build better, stronger connections with yourself and others, and ultimately, to walk alongside you down your own path.
(423) 481-8621 View (423) 481-8621
Photo of Erin Fowler Hatcliff, LPC, MHSP, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Fowler Hatcliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Counseling can have life long impacts on a person’s quality of life, self-worth and relationships. When we explore our thoughts, emotions, and actions from a curious and compassionate stance, we develop self-reliance and new opportunities to relate to others and ourselves. I approach therapy as a collaborative process. I am committed to helping you set goals and celebrating with you as you make progress.
Counseling can have life long impacts on a person’s quality of life, self-worth and relationships. When we explore our thoughts, emotions, and actions from a curious and compassionate stance, we develop self-reliance and new opportunities to relate to others and ourselves. I approach therapy as a collaborative process. I am committed to helping you set goals and celebrating with you as you make progress.
(423) 210-4493 View (423) 210-4493
Photo of Kate Rustand, MEd, CMHC
Kate Rustand
MEd, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hi! I’m Kate. If you’re here, you’re already brave. It takes tremendous bravery and courage to seek professional help, to sit with and process some feelings of hurt. I believe it to be an incredible privilege to work as a counselor. To be trusted with some of the most vulnerable places in an individual’s life is an honor and I will uphold your story with integrity. I believe in the concept of wellness, in healing the whole person rather than a diagnosis or a problem. I consider counseling to be beneficial for all people, regardless of what may bring someone into my space. I would love to work together towards a journey of healing!
Hi! I’m Kate. If you’re here, you’re already brave. It takes tremendous bravery and courage to seek professional help, to sit with and process some feelings of hurt. I believe it to be an incredible privilege to work as a counselor. To be trusted with some of the most vulnerable places in an individual’s life is an honor and I will uphold your story with integrity. I believe in the concept of wellness, in healing the whole person rather than a diagnosis or a problem. I consider counseling to be beneficial for all people, regardless of what may bring someone into my space. I would love to work together towards a journey of healing!
(423) 933-2628 View (423) 933-2628
Photo of Adeline Voss, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adeline Voss
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I believe that people change through having new experiences. Whether it’s having a confidential space to share, feeling understood in a new way, becoming mindful of emotions and thought patterns, or taking the risk of vulnerability, change happens when we step out of the familiar. Sometimes we get to choose this, and other times it’s forced upon us by events beyond our control. Informed by my own experiences of pain, growth, and healing, I seek to come alongside my clients in the process of change as well as in the process of acceptance, recognizing that both are often needed as we move through life.
I believe that people change through having new experiences. Whether it’s having a confidential space to share, feeling understood in a new way, becoming mindful of emotions and thought patterns, or taking the risk of vulnerability, change happens when we step out of the familiar. Sometimes we get to choose this, and other times it’s forced upon us by events beyond our control. Informed by my own experiences of pain, growth, and healing, I seek to come alongside my clients in the process of change as well as in the process of acceptance, recognizing that both are often needed as we move through life.
(423) 207-4697 View (423) 207-4697
Photo of Patricia Grady Stinnett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Grady Stinnett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lookout Mountain, TN 37350  (Online Only)
Patricia received her Master of Science from Lee University in 2016. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the State of Tennessee. Patricia's counseling services are available via telehealth. Patricia is trained and experienced in trauma, grief, depression, anxiety and simply adjusting to life. Her treatment model is trauma-informed and integrative psychotherapy including clinical training in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Level 1 Complex Trauma Treatment Professional Training, current training telehealth trauma certification.
Patricia received her Master of Science from Lee University in 2016. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the State of Tennessee. Patricia's counseling services are available via telehealth. Patricia is trained and experienced in trauma, grief, depression, anxiety and simply adjusting to life. Her treatment model is trauma-informed and integrative psychotherapy including clinical training in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Level 1 Complex Trauma Treatment Professional Training, current training telehealth trauma certification.
(423) 205-4259 View (423) 205-4259
Photo of Rachel Blanton, MEd, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Blanton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Are you a parent of a child who is struggling emotionally or behaviorally? Are you a first-time parent trying to figure out which way is up? Do you want to set better boundaries? Develop better coping skills? Change negative patterns? I get it. As a parent and former school counselor, I have years of hands-on experience as a supportive listener, and problem-solver, helping individuals find tools and strategies they need to be successful. I believe that every person is unique and that the best way to help them is by building a strong relationship built on trust, respect, acceptance, and empathy. I am neurodiversity-affirming.
Are you a parent of a child who is struggling emotionally or behaviorally? Are you a first-time parent trying to figure out which way is up? Do you want to set better boundaries? Develop better coping skills? Change negative patterns? I get it. As a parent and former school counselor, I have years of hands-on experience as a supportive listener, and problem-solver, helping individuals find tools and strategies they need to be successful. I believe that every person is unique and that the best way to help them is by building a strong relationship built on trust, respect, acceptance, and empathy. I am neurodiversity-affirming.
(423) 482-4092 View (423) 482-4092
Photo of Rachael A Benson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael A Benson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am in the practice of helping people understand themselves and find pathways towards healing and success. Therefore, I have the honor of meeting you just as you are and seeing a glimpse of your inner world, what shaped you, and molded you into a complex individual and being. My desire is to understand where you have come from and where you would like to go. Through understanding we can begin the work of creating a path toward deeper reflection, healing and thriving.
I am in the practice of helping people understand themselves and find pathways towards healing and success. Therefore, I have the honor of meeting you just as you are and seeing a glimpse of your inner world, what shaped you, and molded you into a complex individual and being. My desire is to understand where you have come from and where you would like to go. Through understanding we can begin the work of creating a path toward deeper reflection, healing and thriving.
(423) 556-6941 View (423) 556-6941
Photo of Rebekah Barrom, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebekah Barrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Are you angry? Angry with loved ones, angry with life, even angry with God? Do you feel disillusioned about life and distrustful of others? Did you know that these are classic hallmarks of post-traumatic stress disorder? After surviving a traumatic event, many people experience all of these things and more, which can disrupt every aspect of life. I hope it will encourage you to know that all of these reactions to trauma are completely normal and treatable.
Are you angry? Angry with loved ones, angry with life, even angry with God? Do you feel disillusioned about life and distrustful of others? Did you know that these are classic hallmarks of post-traumatic stress disorder? After surviving a traumatic event, many people experience all of these things and more, which can disrupt every aspect of life. I hope it will encourage you to know that all of these reactions to trauma are completely normal and treatable.
(901) 599-2868 View (901) 599-2868
Photo of Becki Livingston, MS, LPCMHSP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becki Livingston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP, EMDR
Verified Verified
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual therapy for adults, with current availability for self-pay appointments. I approach therapy from the empowering perspective that we are not in control of what happens to us or around us, but we are responsible for the consequences of how we choose to allow these things to affect us and how we choose to respond. By making different choices, we can feel differently. In any given situation, we are doing the best we can with what we have, and, through therapy, we can build better ways to actively engage in life, instead of merely existing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual therapy for adults, with current availability for self-pay appointments. I approach therapy from the empowering perspective that we are not in control of what happens to us or around us, but we are responsible for the consequences of how we choose to allow these things to affect us and how we choose to respond. By making different choices, we can feel differently. In any given situation, we are doing the best we can with what we have, and, through therapy, we can build better ways to actively engage in life, instead of merely existing.
(865) 205-1577 View (865) 205-1577
Photo of Krista Chick Integrative Health Services, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krista Chick Integrative Health Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
What events from your past have gotten you to where you are today? What events from your past have held you back from where you want to be? These are just some of the questions that can be explored and answered in therapy. We can easily be controlled by unprocessed events or trauma. However, healing is possible and allows us to move forward without letting past experiences negatively impact our lives. Together, we can work on removing these barriers that prevent you from becoming your best self.
What events from your past have gotten you to where you are today? What events from your past have held you back from where you want to be? These are just some of the questions that can be explored and answered in therapy. We can easily be controlled by unprocessed events or trauma. However, healing is possible and allows us to move forward without letting past experiences negatively impact our lives. Together, we can work on removing these barriers that prevent you from becoming your best self.
(205) 852-8324 View (205) 852-8324
1

See more therapy options for 37350

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 37350

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 37350 who prioritize treating:

88% Relationship Issues
88% Depression
88% Anxiety
84% Self Esteem
81% Coping Skills
81% Life Transitions
72% Stress

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 37350 see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 37350?

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.