Photo of Sue Van Wazer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Sue Van Wazer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I believe that our inner work helps us create our outer world. Taking the step to seek support is a powerful act of self-care, and I’m glad you’re here. As a licensed therapist with decades of experience and a Trauma-Focused certification, I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and groups navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in: - Couples Counseling & Relationship Issues - Anxiety, Depression, & Mood Concerns - Trauma & PTSD Recovery - Grief & Life Transitions - LGBTQ + Together, we’ll explore the obstacles in your path and develop the skills and insights needed to move forward.
Welcome! I believe that our inner work helps us create our outer world. Taking the step to seek support is a powerful act of self-care, and I’m glad you’re here. As a licensed therapist with decades of experience and a Trauma-Focused certification, I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and groups navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in: - Couples Counseling & Relationship Issues - Anxiety, Depression, & Mood Concerns - Trauma & PTSD Recovery - Grief & Life Transitions - LGBTQ + Together, we’ll explore the obstacles in your path and develop the skills and insights needed to move forward.
(530) 322-8638 View (530) 322-8638
Photo of Johanna Roten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Johanna Roten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladstone, MO 64118
Your first step to being in control of your happiness and life, is by being vulnerable enough to seek treatment. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Gladstone MO. I have found joy in helping individuals find purpose in life, by tackling their anxiety, depression or trauma history. I believe every client has strengths that can assist them in their healing journey. I am a compassionate listener with healthy communication skills. Therapy can be emotionally difficult and it’s important to have a therapist who will provide support and encouragement while you become mentally restored.
Your first step to being in control of your happiness and life, is by being vulnerable enough to seek treatment. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Gladstone MO. I have found joy in helping individuals find purpose in life, by tackling their anxiety, depression or trauma history. I believe every client has strengths that can assist them in their healing journey. I am a compassionate listener with healthy communication skills. Therapy can be emotionally difficult and it’s important to have a therapist who will provide support and encouragement while you become mentally restored.
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Photo of Charis Emrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Charis Emrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64118
Hi! I’m here to listen. I’m here to honor who you are and what you want. You’re here with a problem? Maybe it’s a hurdle instead of a hitch. My promise to you is to be nonjudgmental and real with you. Let’s find solutions and get through the pain.
Hi! I’m here to listen. I’m here to honor who you are and what you want. You’re here with a problem? Maybe it’s a hurdle instead of a hitch. My promise to you is to be nonjudgmental and real with you. Let’s find solutions and get through the pain.
(816) 396-7520 View (816) 396-7520
Photo of Rebecca A Weimer, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rebecca A Weimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am licensed in Missouri with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
I am licensed in Missouri with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(816) 371-9473 View (816) 371-9473
Photo of Sherry Lynn Strahan - Sherry L. Strahan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MSFT, LMFT
Sherry L. Strahan, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1997 and can help you with reducing your stress and improving your life. I work with young children(age 3 and up), teens, and adults. I specialize in couple/family therapy, as well as in play therapy. Are you asking yourself questions like "Will I ever feel happy again?" or "Can my spouse/significant other and I really work through our problems?" or "Will my child ever follow the rules without a hassle?". If you are, I can tell you change is possible and I can help you with that change.
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1997 and can help you with reducing your stress and improving your life. I work with young children(age 3 and up), teens, and adults. I specialize in couple/family therapy, as well as in play therapy. Are you asking yourself questions like "Will I ever feel happy again?" or "Can my spouse/significant other and I really work through our problems?" or "Will my child ever follow the rules without a hassle?". If you are, I can tell you change is possible and I can help you with that change.
(816) 533-7837 View (816) 533-7837
Photo of Dana Combs, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, RPT™
Dana Combs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
Are you consumed with worry about your child and family? Is your child acting out, anxious or depressed? I can provide a safe therapeutic space for your child to express themselves while learning how to manage their anger, anxiety, depression or other issues. I have 25+ years helping children throughout my career as an elementary teacher and high school counselor. Being a registered play therapist makes me uniquely qualified to help younger children ages 5-11 and adolescents ages 12-18.
Are you consumed with worry about your child and family? Is your child acting out, anxious or depressed? I can provide a safe therapeutic space for your child to express themselves while learning how to manage their anger, anxiety, depression or other issues. I have 25+ years helping children throughout my career as an elementary teacher and high school counselor. Being a registered play therapist makes me uniquely qualified to help younger children ages 5-11 and adolescents ages 12-18.
(217) 645-1155 View (217) 645-1155
Photo of Katie Kaufman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Katie Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am happy you have decided to explore possible therapy options! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Missouri and a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) in the state of Kansas. I work with clients in both states via telehealth. I find my expertise is best for individuals, age 15 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief support and other mental health concerns.
I am happy you have decided to explore possible therapy options! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Missouri and a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) in the state of Kansas. I work with clients in both states via telehealth. I find my expertise is best for individuals, age 15 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief support and other mental health concerns.
(816) 586-4462 View (816) 586-4462
Photo of Marc Dipoto - Dipoto Counseling Group, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dipoto Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
The counselors at Dipoto Counseling Group are Licensed Counselors or Social Workers in the State of Missouri. Our counselors possess a wide range of experience and were selected to meet the diverse needs of our community. We have 18 counselors in our three offices that are ready to work with you. If you are looking for individual, family or couples counseling, we have someone that can work with you. We also have 5 Provisionally Licensed Counselors and Interns that are working under the supervision of Marc Dipoto LPC. They meet weekly with their supervisor to discuss their cases. This service is offered to at a reduced rate.
The counselors at Dipoto Counseling Group are Licensed Counselors or Social Workers in the State of Missouri. Our counselors possess a wide range of experience and were selected to meet the diverse needs of our community. We have 18 counselors in our three offices that are ready to work with you. If you are looking for individual, family or couples counseling, we have someone that can work with you. We also have 5 Provisionally Licensed Counselors and Interns that are working under the supervision of Marc Dipoto LPC. They meet weekly with their supervisor to discuss their cases. This service is offered to at a reduced rate.
(816) 268-8501 View (816) 268-8501
Photo of Abby Wiggins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW, RPT-S
Abby Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
My style is very warm, empathetic, and client-centered with an attachment lens. I believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I work alongside my clients both children and adults, in order to create a treatment plan that is unique to them in order to process their life experiences and help them to move towards healing. Much of my experience as a therapist is with individuals and families who have experienced traumatic events, family conflict, depression, anxiety, self-esteem and attachment challenges. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies based on the needs of my clients.
My style is very warm, empathetic, and client-centered with an attachment lens. I believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I work alongside my clients both children and adults, in order to create a treatment plan that is unique to them in order to process their life experiences and help them to move towards healing. Much of my experience as a therapist is with individuals and families who have experienced traumatic events, family conflict, depression, anxiety, self-esteem and attachment challenges. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies based on the needs of my clients.
(816) 239-2023 View (816) 239-2023
Photo of Jonathan Emmons - Mind Mosaic LLC, Psychologist, PhD
Mind Mosaic LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
At Mind Mosaic, our goal is to provide comprehensive assessment services to answer questions about the social, emotional, behavioral, and academic concerns of your child.
At Mind Mosaic, our goal is to provide comprehensive assessment services to answer questions about the social, emotional, behavioral, and academic concerns of your child.
(816) 451-1685 View (816) 451-1685
Photo of Danielle Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Danielle Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Try as we might, sometimes happiness and contentment always seem just out of reach. Depression, anxiety and stress can make getting out of bed in the morning a daunting task. Troubles in your relationship or conflict in the family can make you feel helpless or overwhelmed. Creating a daily routine using strategies that ground you and support moving forward in areas where you feel stuck. Improving your outlook on life to see past the stressful events that feel overwhelming. Talking through challenges and learning different ways to look at something in order to make progress, even when feeling depressed and anxious.
Try as we might, sometimes happiness and contentment always seem just out of reach. Depression, anxiety and stress can make getting out of bed in the morning a daunting task. Troubles in your relationship or conflict in the family can make you feel helpless or overwhelmed. Creating a daily routine using strategies that ground you and support moving forward in areas where you feel stuck. Improving your outlook on life to see past the stressful events that feel overwhelming. Talking through challenges and learning different ways to look at something in order to make progress, even when feeling depressed and anxious.
(816) 685-0512 View (816) 685-0512
Photo of Amanda Rexwinkle, Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LMFT
Amanda Rexwinkle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
There are times in everyone's life where they face uncertainty and a stirring in themselves for a different way of living. Whether you are facing a new chapter in your life that leads you unsure of the path forward, a parent seeking support for your child as they navigate their social and emotional world, or searching for ways to heal and grow in your relationships, there is a place to start. Therapy is a unique opportunity to further explore our self, our roles, and our interactions in relationships with others. Together, we will work to determine what changes will give you and your family resilience and a deeper connection.
There are times in everyone's life where they face uncertainty and a stirring in themselves for a different way of living. Whether you are facing a new chapter in your life that leads you unsure of the path forward, a parent seeking support for your child as they navigate their social and emotional world, or searching for ways to heal and grow in your relationships, there is a place to start. Therapy is a unique opportunity to further explore our self, our roles, and our interactions in relationships with others. Together, we will work to determine what changes will give you and your family resilience and a deeper connection.
(816) 227-6860 View (816) 227-6860
Photo of Kristie Pfaff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Kristie Pfaff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi! my name is Kristie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in treating eating disorders, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. Should you choose to work with me, we will work together to determine what your goals are from which then I will integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet your individualized needs. My therapeutic style is gentle, and compassionate in a strong way, while tempered by an easy sense of humor. My hope is for you to leave your therapy sessions with hope, a feeling of empowerment, and knowing that feeling better is possible for you and change can last.
Hi! my name is Kristie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in treating eating disorders, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. Should you choose to work with me, we will work together to determine what your goals are from which then I will integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet your individualized needs. My therapeutic style is gentle, and compassionate in a strong way, while tempered by an easy sense of humor. My hope is for you to leave your therapy sessions with hope, a feeling of empowerment, and knowing that feeling better is possible for you and change can last.
(816) 693-2178 View (816) 693-2178
Photo of Dr. Susan Howard-Perry, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MA, LPC
Dr. Susan Howard-Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladstone, MO 64118
Some clients seek treatment not because they have a mental health issue but because they are experiencing a situation, relationship, or life event that is causing them emotional distress. Therefore, I am a goal-oriented therapist that uses an eclectic approach to treatment. I do not believe that one size fits all as each human being is unique and so are their circumstances. I use many different theoretical frames of reference such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Attachment Theory, Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, and others to assist my clients develop insight and change behaviors.
Some clients seek treatment not because they have a mental health issue but because they are experiencing a situation, relationship, or life event that is causing them emotional distress. Therefore, I am a goal-oriented therapist that uses an eclectic approach to treatment. I do not believe that one size fits all as each human being is unique and so are their circumstances. I use many different theoretical frames of reference such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Attachment Theory, Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, and others to assist my clients develop insight and change behaviors.
(816) 357-8079 View (816) 357-8079
Photo of Deena Watkins, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Deena Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladstone, MO 64118
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety or facing challenges in adjusting to life changes? I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate these struggles with empathy and practical solutions. With over 20 years of experience in counseling, my approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to empower you in identifying core issues and developing effective coping strategies. With a background in education and a deep understanding of child and adolescent development, I am particularly adept at working with young people as well as adults.
Are you struggling with anxiety or facing challenges in adjusting to life changes? I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate these struggles with empathy and practical solutions. With over 20 years of experience in counseling, my approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to empower you in identifying core issues and developing effective coping strategies. With a background in education and a deep understanding of child and adolescent development, I am particularly adept at working with young people as well as adults.
(816) 540-1116 View (816) 540-1116
Photo of Hannah K Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Hannah K Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64118
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist with a social work heart. Helping others learn to love and understand themselves is my favorite part of the job. I diagnose and treat through different types of therapy such as psychotherapy, trauma informed care, DBT, CBT, Grief and Loss, Couples Therapy and numerous strengths perspective approaches. I work with adult patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma based disorders.
I am a therapist with a social work heart. Helping others learn to love and understand themselves is my favorite part of the job. I diagnose and treat through different types of therapy such as psychotherapy, trauma informed care, DBT, CBT, Grief and Loss, Couples Therapy and numerous strengths perspective approaches. I work with adult patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma based disorders.
(816) 327-1756 View (816) 327-1756
Photo of Rebecca Dolores Correnti, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCP
Rebecca Dolores Correnti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I do both phone counseling as well as psychotherapy, and coaching. These are my areas of expertise. Mediation work within the courts for divorce issues, anxiety, panic attacks, adults who have had mild to severe abuse of any kind, PTSD, high stresors, OCD, those who are overwhelmed, depression, relationship counseling for individuals, grief counseling, goal setting, work stressors/ problem solving, Career counseling and personal coaching, co-dependency problems individual counseling-behavior therapy, Autism spectrum, ADHD, and divorce issues with adults, assessments, disability summaries and psychological testing.
I do both phone counseling as well as psychotherapy, and coaching. These are my areas of expertise. Mediation work within the courts for divorce issues, anxiety, panic attacks, adults who have had mild to severe abuse of any kind, PTSD, high stresors, OCD, those who are overwhelmed, depression, relationship counseling for individuals, grief counseling, goal setting, work stressors/ problem solving, Career counseling and personal coaching, co-dependency problems individual counseling-behavior therapy, Autism spectrum, ADHD, and divorce issues with adults, assessments, disability summaries and psychological testing.
(816) 912-4281 View (816) 912-4281
Photo of Shunta’ Scott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shunta’ Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello there! My name is Shunta Scott, I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker who specializes in working with adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and self-worth. My therapeutic approach is customized based off of each client's needs and strengths. Some approaches I like to use are person centered, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
Hello there! My name is Shunta Scott, I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker who specializes in working with adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and self-worth. My therapeutic approach is customized based off of each client's needs and strengths. Some approaches I like to use are person centered, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
(816) 477-1089 View (816) 477-1089
Photo of Cassie Farris, Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Cassie Farris
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64118
You're looking for a therapist? I'm a therapist! Everybody has their own individual struggles in life whether it be working through anger, self-esteem issues, ineffective coping skills, trauma, shame, attachment issues or trust. I believe that the individual drives the treatment and achievement of goals. Your opinions, feelings and hopes will always matter in your treatment. I’m very passionate about working with clients in a way that best fits them. Life can be hard so it’s important to have a safe place to process and have a person make you feel seen and heard. I hope to be able to provide this safe and supportive space.
You're looking for a therapist? I'm a therapist! Everybody has their own individual struggles in life whether it be working through anger, self-esteem issues, ineffective coping skills, trauma, shame, attachment issues or trust. I believe that the individual drives the treatment and achievement of goals. Your opinions, feelings and hopes will always matter in your treatment. I’m very passionate about working with clients in a way that best fits them. Life can be hard so it’s important to have a safe place to process and have a person make you feel seen and heard. I hope to be able to provide this safe and supportive space.
(816) 727-3212 View (816) 727-3212
Photo of Michelle Marie Magri, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LMAC
Michelle Marie Magri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LMAC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64118
Reaching out is hard and you are on the way to taking your first steps. As a clinician, I recognize the importance of collaboration and the impact it can have on our well-being. Life, indeed, presents its share of difficulties, and having a safe space to explore those challenges is crucial. Unbiased and non-judgmental support is essential, especially when we tend to be overly critical of ourselves. It’s common to feel like some problems are beyond our control, but together, we can navigate them. Whether the issues are big or small, I’m here to join forces with you, working toward your goals and uncovering the possibilities.
Reaching out is hard and you are on the way to taking your first steps. As a clinician, I recognize the importance of collaboration and the impact it can have on our well-being. Life, indeed, presents its share of difficulties, and having a safe space to explore those challenges is crucial. Unbiased and non-judgmental support is essential, especially when we tend to be overly critical of ourselves. It’s common to feel like some problems are beyond our control, but together, we can navigate them. Whether the issues are big or small, I’m here to join forces with you, working toward your goals and uncovering the possibilities.
(816) 327-2464 View (816) 327-2464
1

See more therapy options for 64118

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 64118

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in 64118 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
79% Stress
68% Relationship Issues
65% Grief
65% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 64118 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in 64118?

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.