Therapists in 90740

Photo of Michelle Moran, Psychologist, PsyD, IFECMHS, RPF
Michelle Moran
Psychologist, PsyD, IFECMHS, RPF
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Hi, I'm Dr. Michelle Moran. I'm a mom and an advocate for the nurturing of relationships throughout our lifetime. My private practice is focused on supporting families/parents with children ages 0-18. My approach involves taking everything I know about attachment, mindfulness, emotional regulation, infant-parent mental health, reflective practice, child/human development, maternal mental health, trauma, and evidenced based practice to inform my work with clients. I help empower clients by providing emotional safety, guidance, and support in order to increase reflective capacities; as well as increase support systems, as needed.
Hi, I'm Dr. Michelle Moran. I'm a mom and an advocate for the nurturing of relationships throughout our lifetime. My private practice is focused on supporting families/parents with children ages 0-18. My approach involves taking everything I know about attachment, mindfulness, emotional regulation, infant-parent mental health, reflective practice, child/human development, maternal mental health, trauma, and evidenced based practice to inform my work with clients. I help empower clients by providing emotional safety, guidance, and support in order to increase reflective capacities; as well as increase support systems, as needed.
(562) 600-4765 View (562) 600-4765
Photo of Ani R Dylan, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Ani R Dylan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Seal Beach, CA 90740
"We can not rise higher than our thoughts about ourselves." Orison As a therapist, I assist my clients to become more accepting and compassionate about who they are. Aat the same time,in therapy, I assist my clients to face directly those issues that are creating obstacles in their lives and in their relationships. I educate and design ways to successfully integrate and integrate new skills and ways of being into their everyday lives that lead to self mastery and create a rewarding and meaningful life experience. "There is no freedom like seeing myself and not losing heart." Canhan
"We can not rise higher than our thoughts about ourselves." Orison As a therapist, I assist my clients to become more accepting and compassionate about who they are. Aat the same time,in therapy, I assist my clients to face directly those issues that are creating obstacles in their lives and in their relationships. I educate and design ways to successfully integrate and integrate new skills and ways of being into their everyday lives that lead to self mastery and create a rewarding and meaningful life experience. "There is no freedom like seeing myself and not losing heart." Canhan
(562) 396-5910 View (562) 396-5910
Photo of Lori Mattingly, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Lori Mattingly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Do you struggle to open up with others? To feel emotions deeply? To understand others? I welcome you into a space to bravely uncover and acknowledge your hardest moments in life, to be curious, to process, and to find freedom and empowerment in redefining yourself, your life and your future.
Do you struggle to open up with others? To feel emotions deeply? To understand others? I welcome you into a space to bravely uncover and acknowledge your hardest moments in life, to be curious, to process, and to find freedom and empowerment in redefining yourself, your life and your future.
(562) 396-9947 View (562) 396-9947
Photo of Rory Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rory Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Most of the time we are able to navigate the trials that happen during our lives, but every so often we are unable to in the ways that we want. Those experiences can be overwhelming and quite lonely. From providing an a safe, collaborative and open environment I explore all of the factors that have led a person to where they are today and with them look at what changes would need to be in place for one to organically handle situations differently.
Most of the time we are able to navigate the trials that happen during our lives, but every so often we are unable to in the ways that we want. Those experiences can be overwhelming and quite lonely. From providing an a safe, collaborative and open environment I explore all of the factors that have led a person to where they are today and with them look at what changes would need to be in place for one to organically handle situations differently.
(714) 364-2720 View (714) 364-2720
Photo of Deginesh Worku - Peace of Mind Therapy, Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC
Peace of Mind Therapy
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My name is Dr. Deginesh Worku or Dr. Dee. I’m a licensed mental health therapist with over 28 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I work with people dealing with anxiety, depression, communication problems, trauma and life transitions ( e.g., adoption, immigration, divorce, loss, etc.) which can all cause overwhelming feelings leaving you unbalanced. I also specialize in cross-cultural / multicultural dynamics understanding the impact culture has on the way we navigate and process behaviors. I hope to create a supportive and safe environment to help you move towards your desired goals.
My name is Dr. Deginesh Worku or Dr. Dee. I’m a licensed mental health therapist with over 28 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I work with people dealing with anxiety, depression, communication problems, trauma and life transitions ( e.g., adoption, immigration, divorce, loss, etc.) which can all cause overwhelming feelings leaving you unbalanced. I also specialize in cross-cultural / multicultural dynamics understanding the impact culture has on the way we navigate and process behaviors. I hope to create a supportive and safe environment to help you move towards your desired goals.
(562) 269-1357 View (562) 269-1357
Photo of Mikayla Rodin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Mikayla Rodin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Hello! I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate anxiety and developmental disorders, including OCD, ADHD and Panic Disorder. I have experience using approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure Response Prevention. Many of the clients I work with want to understand their anxiety and learn how to manage it in ways that feel both practical and compassionate. Together, we focus on finding calm, building confidence, and developing self-compassion—so they can feel more grounded and capable of handling distressing thoughts, feelings, or sensations.
Hello! I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate anxiety and developmental disorders, including OCD, ADHD and Panic Disorder. I have experience using approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure Response Prevention. Many of the clients I work with want to understand their anxiety and learn how to manage it in ways that feel both practical and compassionate. Together, we focus on finding calm, building confidence, and developing self-compassion—so they can feel more grounded and capable of handling distressing thoughts, feelings, or sensations.
(562) 379-2398 View (562) 379-2398
Photo of Holly Richmond, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Holly Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
(424) 255-3638 x562881 View (424) 255-3638 x562881
Photo of Nathalie Maggio, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Nathalie Maggio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
9 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and stuck? Everyday life is hard to manage? You know something has to change but you're not sure where to begin? Have you experienced trauma or painful moments that seem hard to control and let go? At this point you've probably noticed challenges in your relationships and work or school. It may be hard to see but there is a life in which you wake up feeling good and excited about what you can do compared to dreading what you have to do. Working through these challenging times can be the key to creating the life you want. I'm here to help you find calm, focus, and control in your life again.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and stuck? Everyday life is hard to manage? You know something has to change but you're not sure where to begin? Have you experienced trauma or painful moments that seem hard to control and let go? At this point you've probably noticed challenges in your relationships and work or school. It may be hard to see but there is a life in which you wake up feeling good and excited about what you can do compared to dreading what you have to do. Working through these challenging times can be the key to creating the life you want. I'm here to help you find calm, focus, and control in your life again.
(562) 270-2595 View (562) 270-2595
Photo of Joanna Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joanna Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My style is warm, down-to-earth, and creative. I try to do my best to provide a welcoming and safe environment for my patients to express themselves. I have a passion for working with patients who are seeking a meaningful life and see value in deepening their self-awareness. I take an integrative approach to treating patients, recognizing the individual needs of each person.
My style is warm, down-to-earth, and creative. I try to do my best to provide a welcoming and safe environment for my patients to express themselves. I have a passion for working with patients who are seeking a meaningful life and see value in deepening their self-awareness. I take an integrative approach to treating patients, recognizing the individual needs of each person.
(562) 371-0156 View (562) 371-0156
Photo of Audrey Malone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Audrey Malone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in chronic stress? Your nervous system may be working overtime to protect you. If you or your teen are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or a difficult life transition, I offer a steady, supportive space to help you feel calmer, clearer, and more like yourself again.
Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in chronic stress? Your nervous system may be working overtime to protect you. If you or your teen are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or a difficult life transition, I offer a steady, supportive space to help you feel calmer, clearer, and more like yourself again.
(562) 242-7239 View (562) 242-7239
Photo of Angela Castellanos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angela Castellanos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I believe therapy should be a safe, empowering space where you're met with empathy, honesty, and respect. I bring a grounded, compassionate presence to support children, adults, and families. As a bilingual and bicultural therapist, I value the role of culture, identity, and community in healing. I offer a collaborative approach—holding space for your story while encouraging growth. You don’t need all the answers—just a willingness to begin. I’ll meet you there.
I believe therapy should be a safe, empowering space where you're met with empathy, honesty, and respect. I bring a grounded, compassionate presence to support children, adults, and families. As a bilingual and bicultural therapist, I value the role of culture, identity, and community in healing. I offer a collaborative approach—holding space for your story while encouraging growth. You don’t need all the answers—just a willingness to begin. I’ll meet you there.
(415) 329-3442 View (415) 329-3442
Photo of Anita Herrera-Hamilton, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Anita Herrera-Hamilton
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
2 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Dr. Anita Herrera-Hamilton is a board-certified NEUROpsychologist and Associate Professor at CHLA & USC Keck School of Medicine. She specializes in NEUROpsychological & psychoEDUCATional evaluations of children, adolescents & adults. Specialties include: concussion, traumatic brain injury, & medical conditions affecting brain functioning. As a psychoTHERAPIst & certified YOGA instructor, Dr. Herrera-Hamilton works exclusively with elite and Division I student-athletes, coaches, and parents, to optimize performance by targeting the central and peripheral nervous system via somatic, mindful, and talk therapy to enhance performance.
Dr. Anita Herrera-Hamilton is a board-certified NEUROpsychologist and Associate Professor at CHLA & USC Keck School of Medicine. She specializes in NEUROpsychological & psychoEDUCATional evaluations of children, adolescents & adults. Specialties include: concussion, traumatic brain injury, & medical conditions affecting brain functioning. As a psychoTHERAPIst & certified YOGA instructor, Dr. Herrera-Hamilton works exclusively with elite and Division I student-athletes, coaches, and parents, to optimize performance by targeting the central and peripheral nervous system via somatic, mindful, and talk therapy to enhance performance.
(562) 374-7895 View (562) 374-7895
Photo of Marlene Barbara Driscoll, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Marlene Barbara Driscoll
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Hello. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in private practice. I enjoy working with anyone that would like support with a recent life challenge, relationship issues or those who wish to achieve greater self-understanding and confidence. I have extensive experience in ASD and ADHD and I enjoy supporting parents of children diagnosed with autism, neurodiversity or behavioral issues. I find that an honest approach that addresses strengths and vulnerabilities brings the best results.
Hello. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in private practice. I enjoy working with anyone that would like support with a recent life challenge, relationship issues or those who wish to achieve greater self-understanding and confidence. I have extensive experience in ASD and ADHD and I enjoy supporting parents of children diagnosed with autism, neurodiversity or behavioral issues. I find that an honest approach that addresses strengths and vulnerabilities brings the best results.
(562) 545-5154 View (562) 545-5154
Photo of Elizabeth G. Middleton - Elizabeth G. Middleton, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Elizabeth G. Middleton, MA, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Seal Beach, CA 90740
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(949) 375-0577 View (949) 375-0577
Photo of Kimberley A Baird-Lyon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CDAC
Kimberley A Baird-Lyon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CDAC
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Are you ready to reclaim your life from the grips of addiction and embrace a future filled with hope and possibility? As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, and a fellow traveler on the road to recovery, I am dedicated to guiding individuals, couples and families towards healing and restoration. With a decade of personal recovery experience and professional training, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with rebuilding life after addiction/alcoholism. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a deep belief in your inherent resilience and strength.
Are you ready to reclaim your life from the grips of addiction and embrace a future filled with hope and possibility? As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, and a fellow traveler on the road to recovery, I am dedicated to guiding individuals, couples and families towards healing and restoration. With a decade of personal recovery experience and professional training, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with rebuilding life after addiction/alcoholism. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a deep belief in your inherent resilience and strength.
(562) 784-8559 View (562) 784-8559
Photo of Ken Gildar, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Ken Gildar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My name is Ken Gildar, I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Seal Beach, California. I have years of experience working with adults of all ages and adolescents in the mental health field. I have worked with people from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds. My strengths include helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflicts and substance use. I am also a former Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I look forward to meeting you! I am available for in person or online sessions.
My name is Ken Gildar, I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Seal Beach, California. I have years of experience working with adults of all ages and adolescents in the mental health field. I have worked with people from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds. My strengths include helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflicts and substance use. I am also a former Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I look forward to meeting you! I am available for in person or online sessions.
(562) 568-8242 View (562) 568-8242
Photo of Vanessa K. Patterson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Vanessa K. Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome! Are you in a relationship that matters deeply to you, yet feel stuck in conflict or disconnection? Do you want to rebuild trust, communicate better, and feel like a team again? I love working with couples to help them strengthen and restore their relationships. Are you a parent navigating behavioral challenges, a woman feeling overwhelmed, or a young adult facing big life transitions? If you’re struggling with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, or depression, I am excited to come alongside you with practical tools and compassionate support as you move toward clarity, confidence, and lasting growth.
Welcome! Are you in a relationship that matters deeply to you, yet feel stuck in conflict or disconnection? Do you want to rebuild trust, communicate better, and feel like a team again? I love working with couples to help them strengthen and restore their relationships. Are you a parent navigating behavioral challenges, a woman feeling overwhelmed, or a young adult facing big life transitions? If you’re struggling with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, or depression, I am excited to come alongside you with practical tools and compassionate support as you move toward clarity, confidence, and lasting growth.
(562) 741-3596 View (562) 741-3596
Photo of Brianna Mondy, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brianna Mondy
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Life can feel overwhelming—whether you're dealing with stress, relationship struggles, or big life changes. My focus is to help you work through challenges, find clarity, and build the tools you need to feel more confident and in control. My approach is warm, supportive, culturally-sensitive, and tailored to you. My goal is to create a safe space where you can open up without judgment, gain new perspectives, and start making real, lasting changes. My hope is to support you in creating the life you want and learning ways to navigate life with more ease.
Life can feel overwhelming—whether you're dealing with stress, relationship struggles, or big life changes. My focus is to help you work through challenges, find clarity, and build the tools you need to feel more confident and in control. My approach is warm, supportive, culturally-sensitive, and tailored to you. My goal is to create a safe space where you can open up without judgment, gain new perspectives, and start making real, lasting changes. My hope is to support you in creating the life you want and learning ways to navigate life with more ease.
(562) 620-4041 View (562) 620-4041
Photo of Julie Rebecca Turvey, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Julie Rebecca Turvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Do you have goals of greater happiness and connection, but aren’t sure why it’s not happening? Are you feeling depressed and anxious and not sure why? Let me help you navigate the confusion! Sometimes there are faulty beliefs about ourselves and communication challenges you need help with. It’s not your fault! You may have not learned the tools yet for navigating some of the emotional challenges of life. I will provide coping skills, teach how to manage challenging emotions, and clarify your needs clearly to those around you. Through facing your pain, you will find greater peace and contentment and reduced mental health symptoms.
Do you have goals of greater happiness and connection, but aren’t sure why it’s not happening? Are you feeling depressed and anxious and not sure why? Let me help you navigate the confusion! Sometimes there are faulty beliefs about ourselves and communication challenges you need help with. It’s not your fault! You may have not learned the tools yet for navigating some of the emotional challenges of life. I will provide coping skills, teach how to manage challenging emotions, and clarify your needs clearly to those around you. Through facing your pain, you will find greater peace and contentment and reduced mental health symptoms.
(562) 352-2294 View (562) 352-2294
Photo of Michele M Marks, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Michele M Marks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Seal Beach, CA 90740
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(714) 482-6180 View (714) 482-6180

See more therapy options for 90740

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90740

100+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in 90740 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
84% Relationship Issues
84% Depression
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
66% Marriage Counseling
63% Grief

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
64% Cigna and Evernorth
59% Optum

How Therapists in 90740 see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90740?

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.