Photo of Pamela Jeanne Nelson-Grotrian - Aging Pathways, LLC, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aging Pathways, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
(515) 800-4846 View (515) 800-4846
Photo of Jason Stark, MS, LMHC, CRC, Counselor
Jason Stark
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I believe the first step to all healing and change is to desire something different. The fact that you are considering counseling is a good sign. I would be honored to hear your story and be involved in your journey.
I believe the first step to all healing and change is to desire something different. The fact that you are considering counseling is a good sign. I would be honored to hear your story and be involved in your journey.
(515) 361-3714 View (515) 361-3714
Photo of Anne Ducharme-Jones, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Ducharme-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
As a therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, food behaviors, body image concerns and anxiety disorders, I strive to create a safe place for clients to practice greater self-awareness and develop new methods to handle the concerns that are keeping them from feeling their best. With 10 years of experience teaching yoga as well, I have a heartfelt passion for encouraging positive balance in all areas of life, including food, body image and a more compassionate relationship to self.
As a therapist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, food behaviors, body image concerns and anxiety disorders, I strive to create a safe place for clients to practice greater self-awareness and develop new methods to handle the concerns that are keeping them from feeling their best. With 10 years of experience teaching yoga as well, I have a heartfelt passion for encouraging positive balance in all areas of life, including food, body image and a more compassionate relationship to self.
(512) 982-0633 View (512) 982-0633
Photo of Mj Andonie, tLMHC
Mj Andonie
Mental Health Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I was born and raised in Honduras and moved to New Orleans in 2008, where I completed my master’s in clinical mental health counseling. I enjoy working with individuals through the different life stages especially children, couples and families. I am passionate about social justice, diversity/multicultural issues, neuro-divergence, mindfulness and physical/mental wellness. As a “systemic thinker”, I believe it is important to focus on an individual’s family of origin and identifying family dynamics and patterns to help them solve their problems.
I was born and raised in Honduras and moved to New Orleans in 2008, where I completed my master’s in clinical mental health counseling. I enjoy working with individuals through the different life stages especially children, couples and families. I am passionate about social justice, diversity/multicultural issues, neuro-divergence, mindfulness and physical/mental wellness. As a “systemic thinker”, I believe it is important to focus on an individual’s family of origin and identifying family dynamics and patterns to help them solve their problems.
(515) 303-4173 View (515) 303-4173
Photo of Kelly Meany, LISW, LADC, CSAT- c, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Meany
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LADC, CSAT- c
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I believe everyone has a story to tell and sometimes the beginning to the healing path is sharing that story. I have seen and helped people change directions from an undesired life path to one of true healing and personal success. My goal is to help each person be the best version of themselves that has always been inside, but was unable to flourish. Everyone has the potential to shine, but sometimes the light is buried under past trauma, self doubt, lack of confidence, or simply lacking the opportunity to look inward to find that true potential.
I believe everyone has a story to tell and sometimes the beginning to the healing path is sharing that story. I have seen and helped people change directions from an undesired life path to one of true healing and personal success. My goal is to help each person be the best version of themselves that has always been inside, but was unable to flourish. Everyone has the potential to shine, but sometimes the light is buried under past trauma, self doubt, lack of confidence, or simply lacking the opportunity to look inward to find that true potential.
(515) 834-4921 View (515) 834-4921
Photo of Trevor Erdman, IADC, T-LMHC, Counselor
Trevor Erdman
Counselor, IADC, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my profile! I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to supporting individuals in their pursuit of positive change and emotional well-being. With expertise in various areas, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore, grow, and heal. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing. My therapeutic approach is holistic and tailored to meet your unique needs. I blend evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and Person-Centered therapy to create a personalized treatment plan.
Welcome to my profile! I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to supporting individuals in their pursuit of positive change and emotional well-being. With expertise in various areas, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore, grow, and heal. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing. My therapeutic approach is holistic and tailored to meet your unique needs. I blend evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and Person-Centered therapy to create a personalized treatment plan.
(515) 497-2226 View (515) 497-2226
Photo of Melissa Steenhoven, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Steenhoven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Seeking to make changes in your life for a better tomorrow? I have been helping people to make these changes for over 20 years by offering a safe and accepting environment and starting with where you are at in the change process. I believe that by making small changes in one's life, we can start on the path of making life more fulfilling and closer to the life that you want to live.
Seeking to make changes in your life for a better tomorrow? I have been helping people to make these changes for over 20 years by offering a safe and accepting environment and starting with where you are at in the change process. I believe that by making small changes in one's life, we can start on the path of making life more fulfilling and closer to the life that you want to live.
(515) 393-6906 View (515) 393-6906
Photo of Andrea 'andye' Lynn Jones, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea 'andye' Lynn Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Sometimes life hurts and we find ourselves feeling alone. Things happen that we just can't explain. The world can sometimes seem cruel and we struggle to find our way. My passion is to empower others and to help them see their worth. I offer a caring, non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to share what is in your heart. Take that first step with me and we can find the answers together. I am here when you are ready. Taking limited clients currently. I am no longer accepting active DHS cases.
Sometimes life hurts and we find ourselves feeling alone. Things happen that we just can't explain. The world can sometimes seem cruel and we struggle to find our way. My passion is to empower others and to help them see their worth. I offer a caring, non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to share what is in your heart. Take that first step with me and we can find the answers together. I am here when you are ready. Taking limited clients currently. I am no longer accepting active DHS cases.
(515) 619-6898 View (515) 619-6898
Photo of Nicole Schrader, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Schrader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Thank you for taking the first step toward your healing! Walking with clients on the path toward better wellness is truly an honor. My core values are the love of learning, honesty, growth, kindness, and respect, which all show up in my work with clients. I pride myself in co-creating a safe space for clients to be fully seen, heard, and supported. My approach is inclusive, compassionate, direct, innovative, and non-judgmental, with some humor thrown in the mix. With over 16 years of experience in wellness, my philosophy integrates mindfulness, breathwork, and holistic practices.
Thank you for taking the first step toward your healing! Walking with clients on the path toward better wellness is truly an honor. My core values are the love of learning, honesty, growth, kindness, and respect, which all show up in my work with clients. I pride myself in co-creating a safe space for clients to be fully seen, heard, and supported. My approach is inclusive, compassionate, direct, innovative, and non-judgmental, with some humor thrown in the mix. With over 16 years of experience in wellness, my philosophy integrates mindfulness, breathwork, and holistic practices.
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Photo of Stephanie Frey, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Frey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Evening appointments are currently full. Email is the best way to reach me! Beginning therapy is a big step, and I'm here to help on your journey. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment for clients of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves. I have worked with people to address issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, relationships, self harming behaviors, improving self-esteem, or just stress that life throws our way. Whatever your struggle is, we can work together to find solutions that work for you.
Evening appointments are currently full. Email is the best way to reach me! Beginning therapy is a big step, and I'm here to help on your journey. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment for clients of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves. I have worked with people to address issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, relationships, self harming behaviors, improving self-esteem, or just stress that life throws our way. Whatever your struggle is, we can work together to find solutions that work for you.
(419) 547-5155 View (419) 547-5155
Photo of Jerome Miller, MS, (t)LMHC, IADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jerome Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, (t)LMHC, IADC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Welcome, you have made the decision to begin moving forward in a positive direction. A direction toward growth and well-being. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can move forward to ensure a better present, and a thriving future. I have over 10 years in the Mental Health industry, and I am a active listener and goal oriented; as we move forward on your goals, we will be using complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques to facilitate the desired change. Remember, "You are on a road to a better place!"
Welcome, you have made the decision to begin moving forward in a positive direction. A direction toward growth and well-being. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can move forward to ensure a better present, and a thriving future. I have over 10 years in the Mental Health industry, and I am a active listener and goal oriented; as we move forward on your goals, we will be using complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques to facilitate the desired change. Remember, "You are on a road to a better place!"
(515) 498-3928 View (515) 498-3928
Photo of Vincent Kelly, MS, CRC, LMHC, EMDR CT, Counselor
Vincent Kelly
Counselor, MS, CRC, LMHC, EMDR CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Not accepting new clients
Congratulations on taking the first step to healing. At times life can be very challenging and keep us from becoming the person we see ourself becoming/being. Those challenges can come in many forms. They can be social, emotional, physical, financial or spiritual. I offer an environment that is peaceful and free of judgement. I am an exceptional listener with 17 yrs of experience working with individuals and families involved in the Child Welfare and Judicial Systems. I provide individual, family and couples counseling. You don't have to feel alone, I am here to take the journey with you!
Congratulations on taking the first step to healing. At times life can be very challenging and keep us from becoming the person we see ourself becoming/being. Those challenges can come in many forms. They can be social, emotional, physical, financial or spiritual. I offer an environment that is peaceful and free of judgement. I am an exceptional listener with 17 yrs of experience working with individuals and families involved in the Child Welfare and Judicial Systems. I provide individual, family and couples counseling. You don't have to feel alone, I am here to take the journey with you!
(515) 361-3265 View (515) 361-3265
Photo of Judy Nemmers, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Nemmers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310  (Online Only)
To those around you, you may look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you are screaming. You're hiding the obsessive thoughts and "crazy" compulsions you engage in so you can maybe lower your level of anxiety. You can't sleep due to your anxiety. You've tried to make changes, but it never gets better. These are secrets that you think no one will understand.
To those around you, you may look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you are screaming. You're hiding the obsessive thoughts and "crazy" compulsions you engage in so you can maybe lower your level of anxiety. You can't sleep due to your anxiety. You've tried to make changes, but it never gets better. These are secrets that you think no one will understand.
(515) 373-4866 View (515) 373-4866
Photo of C. Ayo Davis-Yeboah, MS, LMHC, Counselor
C. Ayo Davis-Yeboah
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Waitlist for new clients
You have finally chosen to put yourself first in the interest of healing. What if I told you that you have all of the answers for "YOU in YOU?” When life becomes challenging and overwhelming, we can loose sight of what we know to do to move through life successfully. I offer an environment that is peaceful and judgement free. Where you can process in order to find your answers to navigate life in a manner that will serve you. I am an active listener with over 10 years experience working with individuals and families in the behavioral/mental health field. I provide individual counseling and I'm here to support you on your journey.
You have finally chosen to put yourself first in the interest of healing. What if I told you that you have all of the answers for "YOU in YOU?” When life becomes challenging and overwhelming, we can loose sight of what we know to do to move through life successfully. I offer an environment that is peaceful and judgement free. Where you can process in order to find your answers to navigate life in a manner that will serve you. I am an active listener with over 10 years experience working with individuals and families in the behavioral/mental health field. I provide individual counseling and I'm here to support you on your journey.
(515) 585-6763 View (515) 585-6763
Photo of Alicia Peña, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Alicia Peña
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
(515) 608-8892 View (515) 608-8892
Photo of Sara Gamblin, LMSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Gamblin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
(515) 303-2966 View (515) 303-2966
Photo of Ryan McClure, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area for over 24 years and the co-founder of the counseling agency Lifeworks Inc. My primary areas of interest include helping individuals overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, social phobias, low self-esteem, anger issues and overall learning how to effectively manage challenging emotions that often present themselves. Typically, I serve clients older than 12 and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week. Therapy is a good thing. It will surprise you.
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area for over 24 years and the co-founder of the counseling agency Lifeworks Inc. My primary areas of interest include helping individuals overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, social phobias, low self-esteem, anger issues and overall learning how to effectively manage challenging emotions that often present themselves. Typically, I serve clients older than 12 and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week. Therapy is a good thing. It will surprise you.
(515) 368-8229 View (515) 368-8229
Photo of Tiffany Bandow, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Bandow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I am grateful for the opportunity to be present with others as they journey towards a greater place of peace and wellness. I truly believe that YOU are the expert on your life and I am simply available to offer insight, connection and genuine support. It is my honor to be a part of your journey!
I am grateful for the opportunity to be present with others as they journey towards a greater place of peace and wellness. I truly believe that YOU are the expert on your life and I am simply available to offer insight, connection and genuine support. It is my honor to be a part of your journey!
(515) 604-8334 View (515) 604-8334
Photo of Monique And Rick Elgersma - Real Connections Counseling, A Cotherapy company!, LMFT, M Litt, Marriage & Family Therapist
Real Connections Counseling, A Cotherapy company!
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, M Litt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Instead of staring at a therapist staring back at you, you join up with a TEAM in a place where you belong, in a way where we all show up for practice together. Together we create your dream relationship. You work hard ... blood, sweat, and tears kind of hard sometimes. At the end of it you'll have the kind of love you may never have dreamed you could have. This isn't just therapy, it's co-therapy. A philosophy that empowers couples like you to discover the magic of "us." We're your team, and your needs come first. Sessions START at 85 mins. The RCC-System means you succeed, all outside the constraints and limitations of insurance.
Instead of staring at a therapist staring back at you, you join up with a TEAM in a place where you belong, in a way where we all show up for practice together. Together we create your dream relationship. You work hard ... blood, sweat, and tears kind of hard sometimes. At the end of it you'll have the kind of love you may never have dreamed you could have. This isn't just therapy, it's co-therapy. A philosophy that empowers couples like you to discover the magic of "us." We're your team, and your needs come first. Sessions START at 85 mins. The RCC-System means you succeed, all outside the constraints and limitations of insurance.
(515) 346-6075 View (515) 346-6075
Photo of Amber Sampson - Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
(515) 421-9313 View (515) 421-9313
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 50310

80+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in 50310 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
79% Trauma and PTSD
78% Coping Skills
78% Self Esteem
75% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Wellmark BCBS
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 50310 see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 50310?

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.