Therapists in 92620

Photo of Sunita Churiwala-Nandhuri, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sunita Churiwala-Nandhuri
Marriage & Family Therapist
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
Sometimes we need support and guidance to help us manage distress, achieve greater clarity, build better relationships and develop a healthier sense of ourselves. Most of us many times don’t want to discuss our personal problems, even with those closest to us. I would like to extend my hand to help you feel better about your life, relationships and most importantly, yourself! I am a skilled, and experienced psychotherapist who offers a supportive and non-judgmental environment for the therapeutic relationship. I provide short term solution focused or medium to long term therapy for adults and teens, depending on individual needs.
Sometimes we need support and guidance to help us manage distress, achieve greater clarity, build better relationships and develop a healthier sense of ourselves. Most of us many times don’t want to discuss our personal problems, even with those closest to us. I would like to extend my hand to help you feel better about your life, relationships and most importantly, yourself! I am a skilled, and experienced psychotherapist who offers a supportive and non-judgmental environment for the therapeutic relationship. I provide short term solution focused or medium to long term therapy for adults and teens, depending on individual needs.
(562) 379-5023 View (562) 379-5023
Photo of Ping Sun, Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Ping Sun
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Irvine, CA 92620
I worked as a Chinese Clinical Psychologist in the city of Nanjing, China for 9 years; and a Research Psychoanalyst in Los Angeles for 8 years. Therefore, in the past 17 years I have had over 16,000hours individual therapy hours with my clients in both countries. I integrated therapeutic methods of Psychoanalysis, Existential, and Gestalt Therapy. I am a bilingual (English/Mandarin) licensed Psychoanalyst, graduated from the Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis, Los Angeles, and hope to work with clients from all culture backgrounds/nationalities.
I worked as a Chinese Clinical Psychologist in the city of Nanjing, China for 9 years; and a Research Psychoanalyst in Los Angeles for 8 years. Therefore, in the past 17 years I have had over 16,000hours individual therapy hours with my clients in both countries. I integrated therapeutic methods of Psychoanalysis, Existential, and Gestalt Therapy. I am a bilingual (English/Mandarin) licensed Psychoanalyst, graduated from the Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis, Los Angeles, and hope to work with clients from all culture backgrounds/nationalities.
(818) 290-8819 View (818) 290-8819
Photo of Ingy (Angie) Bassili, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, EMDR
Ingy (Angie) Bassili
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
Are you struggling? Do you need a little extra help navigating the challenges of life? Hi, I am Angie Bassili, a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I am passionate about helping children and families thrive. With specialized training in EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and a commitment to Prepare and Enrich relationships, I'm here to support your family's unique needs. Let's explore how my expertise and dedication to fostering healthier relationships and personal growth can benefit your family. Why Choose Me?
Are you struggling? Do you need a little extra help navigating the challenges of life? Hi, I am Angie Bassili, a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I am passionate about helping children and families thrive. With specialized training in EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and a commitment to Prepare and Enrich relationships, I'm here to support your family's unique needs. Let's explore how my expertise and dedication to fostering healthier relationships and personal growth can benefit your family. Why Choose Me?
(949) 694-3084 View (949) 694-3084
Photo of Arash Shahangian, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Arash Shahangian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
Nobody is broken. We all have challenges and areas where we need to grow, and it takes bravery to face those aspects of ourselves that require growth. Being truly seen and truly heard make a world of difference in accelerating that process. I have over 20 years' experience and am adept at holding space with empathy, love, and compassion. My style is sincere, warm, and engaging with a facility for attuning to my clients and their struggles. I’m here to shine light with you and to provide a safe container to express and experience what needs to be seen, felt, or released. I also offer clinical supervision to therapist interns.
Nobody is broken. We all have challenges and areas where we need to grow, and it takes bravery to face those aspects of ourselves that require growth. Being truly seen and truly heard make a world of difference in accelerating that process. I have over 20 years' experience and am adept at holding space with empathy, love, and compassion. My style is sincere, warm, and engaging with a facility for attuning to my clients and their struggles. I’m here to shine light with you and to provide a safe container to express and experience what needs to be seen, felt, or released. I also offer clinical supervision to therapist interns.
(657) 245-4591 View (657) 245-4591
Photo of Janie Yi-Jiun Lai, Psychologist, PsyD, CCC-SLP
Janie Yi-Jiun Lai
Psychologist, PsyD, CCC-SLP
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals, as well as serving culturally diverse populations. I have training in CBT, social skills, and DBT for clients that benefit from support with co-occurring mood disorders, managing managing daily stressors, and building meaningful relationships. I also offer family therapy to increase empathy, improve communication, and strengthen relationships.
I am passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals, as well as serving culturally diverse populations. I have training in CBT, social skills, and DBT for clients that benefit from support with co-occurring mood disorders, managing managing daily stressors, and building meaningful relationships. I also offer family therapy to increase empathy, improve communication, and strengthen relationships.
(714) 681-1528 View (714) 681-1528
Photo of Clara Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Clara Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
Have you been experiencing feelings of confusion or uncertainty in your life? Do you struggle with clarity in your personal and professional goals, feeling weighed down by responsibilities or paralyzed by fear of failure? If so, you’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek guidance and support to navigate your challenges, aiming for personal growth and a better work-life balance. With a desire for empowerment and lasting change, you want practical tools and accountability to help you achieve a fulfilling life. Ultimately, you'd like to crave a sense of purpose and connection with the people that understands your journey.
Have you been experiencing feelings of confusion or uncertainty in your life? Do you struggle with clarity in your personal and professional goals, feeling weighed down by responsibilities or paralyzed by fear of failure? If so, you’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek guidance and support to navigate your challenges, aiming for personal growth and a better work-life balance. With a desire for empowerment and lasting change, you want practical tools and accountability to help you achieve a fulfilling life. Ultimately, you'd like to crave a sense of purpose and connection with the people that understands your journey.
(949) 391-4073 View (949) 391-4073
Photo of Arielle Younessi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Arielle Younessi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Irvine, CA 92620
Welcome! I would be honored to accompany you on your therapeutic journey. I believe in the power of genuine connection and collaboration in therapy. I understand that your experiences are uniquely yours, which is why I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Grounded in empathy, honesty, and mutual trust, I am committed to walking alongside you as we navigate the intricate journey of healing together.
Welcome! I would be honored to accompany you on your therapeutic journey. I believe in the power of genuine connection and collaboration in therapy. I understand that your experiences are uniquely yours, which is why I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Grounded in empathy, honesty, and mutual trust, I am committed to walking alongside you as we navigate the intricate journey of healing together.
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Photo of Caroline Myra Loretan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Caroline Myra Loretan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Irvine, CA 92620
It takes courage to set up that first appointment, and the fit between therapist and client is an important one for the success of therapy. I am dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges in a safe, empowering, and culturally sensitive environment. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma, or self-esteem concerns, I am committed to helping you develop healthier coping strategies and create personalized treatment goals that align with your unique needs.
It takes courage to set up that first appointment, and the fit between therapist and client is an important one for the success of therapy. I am dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges in a safe, empowering, and culturally sensitive environment. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma, or self-esteem concerns, I am committed to helping you develop healthier coping strategies and create personalized treatment goals that align with your unique needs.
(619) 722-3315 View (619) 722-3315
Photo of James Điền Bùi, Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
James Điền Bùi
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
I work with adults and teens struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, career and relationship issues, and specialize in identity, career coaching and bereavement. I center your needs, value your collaboration and respect your pace as I'll support you through your journey of connecting with your true self, finding solutions and having more peace in life.
I work with adults and teens struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, career and relationship issues, and specialize in identity, career coaching and bereavement. I center your needs, value your collaboration and respect your pace as I'll support you through your journey of connecting with your true self, finding solutions and having more peace in life.
(619) 825-1090 View (619) 825-1090
Photo of Nelson de Ramirez - Cornell Custody Solutions, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Cornell Custody Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Serves Area
Cornell Custody Solutions works with families dealing with divorce and custody related issues. CCS was founded by Dr. Nelson de Ramirez. The same founder of OC Kids Therapy. We provide individual, reunification, co-parenting and mediation that is focused on getting results.
Cornell Custody Solutions works with families dealing with divorce and custody related issues. CCS was founded by Dr. Nelson de Ramirez. The same founder of OC Kids Therapy. We provide individual, reunification, co-parenting and mediation that is focused on getting results.
(949) 763-4390 View (949) 763-4390
Photo of Flor Yousefian Tehrani, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Flor Yousefian Tehrani
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Serves Area
Mental health is an important part of our well-being, and yet often times gets pushed aside or ignored because we feel like we can get through it on our own; are too embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it; or don’t think anyone would understand. Recognizing that you need support and searching for help are the first important steps in your journey to well-being. My intent is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and work toward your goals.
Mental health is an important part of our well-being, and yet often times gets pushed aside or ignored because we feel like we can get through it on our own; are too embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it; or don’t think anyone would understand. Recognizing that you need support and searching for help are the first important steps in your journey to well-being. My intent is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and work toward your goals.
(714) 947-1072 View (714) 947-1072
Photo of Crystal Saidi, Psychologist, PsyD
Crystal Saidi
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
I am Dr. Crystal Saidi, a Licensed Psychologist with 14 years of experience. I offer individual, family, and couples counseling to adolescents and adults dealing with family conflict, career issues, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I completed my doctoral internship at CSUF Counseling and Psychological Services and my post-doctoral training at Monsour Counseling Center in the Claremont University Consortium. I have served as a staff psychologist at a large university, clinic director of an outpatient substance abuse program, and faculty and training director for a graduate program in counseling psychology.
I am Dr. Crystal Saidi, a Licensed Psychologist with 14 years of experience. I offer individual, family, and couples counseling to adolescents and adults dealing with family conflict, career issues, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I completed my doctoral internship at CSUF Counseling and Psychological Services and my post-doctoral training at Monsour Counseling Center in the Claremont University Consortium. I have served as a staff psychologist at a large university, clinic director of an outpatient substance abuse program, and faculty and training director for a graduate program in counseling psychology.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Tzu-Yin Inga Yeh, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tzu-Yin Inga Yeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients - - - I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in California and had worked in the mental health field for more than 10 years in Taiwan. With an Asian culture background, I can also speak Mandarin and Taiwanese, and I am familiar with the challenges the immigration families may have in the U.S. Either adults or teenagers may feel hard to find someone who can understand their distress. My clients always describe me as calm and warm. You will have a safe and reliable space here, feel being understood and accepted, and find your best way to move on.
Accepting new clients - - - I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in California and had worked in the mental health field for more than 10 years in Taiwan. With an Asian culture background, I can also speak Mandarin and Taiwanese, and I am familiar with the challenges the immigration families may have in the U.S. Either adults or teenagers may feel hard to find someone who can understand their distress. My clients always describe me as calm and warm. You will have a safe and reliable space here, feel being understood and accepted, and find your best way to move on.
(714) 515-6678 View (714) 515-6678
Photo of Scheyden Wyatt Herold, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Scheyden Wyatt Herold
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or struggling to rebuild trust after betrayal, you're seeking more than quick fixes. You want to feel truly understood and find lasting relief from the pain that holds you back. Whether you're navigating complex trauma, wrestling with self-esteem, or trying to strengthen your relationships - we all desire a space where our story matters and healing feels possible. You want to regain control, nurture your worth, and build connections that bring joy and stability. I'd be honored to join in your journey of self-betterment.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or struggling to rebuild trust after betrayal, you're seeking more than quick fixes. You want to feel truly understood and find lasting relief from the pain that holds you back. Whether you're navigating complex trauma, wrestling with self-esteem, or trying to strengthen your relationships - we all desire a space where our story matters and healing feels possible. You want to regain control, nurture your worth, and build connections that bring joy and stability. I'd be honored to join in your journey of self-betterment.
(657) 216-9531 View (657) 216-9531
Photo of Nathalie Kaoumi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Nathalie Kaoumi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Serves Area
There is precious wisdom in knowing when it’s time to reach out for support. The part of you that has led you here seeks a life worth living, a self worth loving, and relationships worth nurturing. My work is about holding up that wise part of you so that its influence can carry you through life’s twists and turns. I’ve had the honor of connecting with children, adults, couples, and families of diverse backgrounds. We’ve navigated challenges related to life transitions, relationship stress, self-esteem, identity, and trauma, reflected through a variety of symptoms and difficulties.
There is precious wisdom in knowing when it’s time to reach out for support. The part of you that has led you here seeks a life worth living, a self worth loving, and relationships worth nurturing. My work is about holding up that wise part of you so that its influence can carry you through life’s twists and turns. I’ve had the honor of connecting with children, adults, couples, and families of diverse backgrounds. We’ve navigated challenges related to life transitions, relationship stress, self-esteem, identity, and trauma, reflected through a variety of symptoms and difficulties.
(949) 368-0151 View (949) 368-0151
Photo of Jodi Brekhus, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Jodi Brekhus
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Does each day feel like a struggle? Do you often feel overwhelmed, stuck, sad, anxious, irritable, or numb? Do you wonder why life has unfolded this way despite all your effort? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help. I specialize in guiding people through life’s challenges, including relationship distress, grief, chronic illness, career uncertainty, marital conflict, parenting struggles, life transitions, stress, burnout, self-esteem issues, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Does each day feel like a struggle? Do you often feel overwhelmed, stuck, sad, anxious, irritable, or numb? Do you wonder why life has unfolded this way despite all your effort? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help. I specialize in guiding people through life’s challenges, including relationship distress, grief, chronic illness, career uncertainty, marital conflict, parenting struggles, life transitions, stress, burnout, self-esteem issues, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(949) 676-8467 View (949) 676-8467
Photo of James Swaniger, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
James Swaniger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Newport Beach CA and a graduate of Pepperdine University. My primary treatment approach is psychodynamic psychotherapy, which is designed to help clients understand how their unconscious thoughts and feelings affect how they act, react, think, feel and relate. Ideal clients are adult individuals who are committed to doing the emotionally challenging work of psychotherapy.
I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Newport Beach CA and a graduate of Pepperdine University. My primary treatment approach is psychodynamic psychotherapy, which is designed to help clients understand how their unconscious thoughts and feelings affect how they act, react, think, feel and relate. Ideal clients are adult individuals who are committed to doing the emotionally challenging work of psychotherapy.
(714) 794-5819 View (714) 794-5819
Photo of Ilene Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ilene Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling stuck between who you’ve been and who you want to be? You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I work with neurodivergent teens and adults navigating that “in-between” stage of life transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. Figuring out identity, relationships, independence, and what’s next. Whether you're starting college, adjusting to a new job, building friendships, or managing big life transitions, therapy can be a space to process it all. I also work with survivors of trauma and offer space for exploring experiences you may not have had the chance, or safety, to explore before.
Feeling stuck between who you’ve been and who you want to be? You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I work with neurodivergent teens and adults navigating that “in-between” stage of life transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. Figuring out identity, relationships, independence, and what’s next. Whether you're starting college, adjusting to a new job, building friendships, or managing big life transitions, therapy can be a space to process it all. I also work with survivors of trauma and offer space for exploring experiences you may not have had the chance, or safety, to explore before.
(949) 978-0955 View (949) 978-0955
Photo of Margaret Mickelson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, EMDR
Margaret Mickelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, EMDR
Serves Area
With over 29 years of experience, I have the deepest respect for my clients. I acknowledge the courage and commitment it takes for you to begin this journey of therapy. Utilizing EMDR, art therapy, and traditional talk therapy, I blend my skills to help meet your needs, assisting you in recovering from issues related to loss, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse, life transitions, or self-esteem. There is life in embracing both the pain and the joy. I provide Christian based therapy encouraging individuals to reclaim their hearts and hold onto hope.
With over 29 years of experience, I have the deepest respect for my clients. I acknowledge the courage and commitment it takes for you to begin this journey of therapy. Utilizing EMDR, art therapy, and traditional talk therapy, I blend my skills to help meet your needs, assisting you in recovering from issues related to loss, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse, life transitions, or self-esteem. There is life in embracing both the pain and the joy. I provide Christian based therapy encouraging individuals to reclaim their hearts and hold onto hope.
(949) 272-0624 View (949) 272-0624
Photo of Patricia Lopez White, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Patricia Lopez White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Patricia. I am a licensed Marriage, Family Therapist with extensive experience working with clients to achieve the best version of themselves. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I meet you where you currently are in your life and circumstance, in a non-judgment compassionate manner to guide you in achieving your definition of happiness. I enjoy working with adults in various phases of life with varying degrees of anxiety and depression. I have been providing therapy online for many years, and I appreciate this modality as it allows more clients to participate in treatment due to its convenience.
Hi, I'm Patricia. I am a licensed Marriage, Family Therapist with extensive experience working with clients to achieve the best version of themselves. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I meet you where you currently are in your life and circumstance, in a non-judgment compassionate manner to guide you in achieving your definition of happiness. I enjoy working with adults in various phases of life with varying degrees of anxiety and depression. I have been providing therapy online for many years, and I appreciate this modality as it allows more clients to participate in treatment due to its convenience.
(661) 218-1024 View (661) 218-1024

See more therapy options for 92620

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92620

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 92620 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
87% Depression
75% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
68% Stress
67% Coping Skills
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
74% Cigna and Evernorth
69% Optum

How Therapists in 92620 see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92620?

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.