Therapists in 98033

Photo of Michaela Hida, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Michaela Hida
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Kirkland, WA 98033
I believe in a collaborative therapeutic process that prioritizes creating an inclusive and nonjudgmental space rooted in empathy, vulnerability, curiosity, and trust. My experience includes working with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, challenging life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I work with children 6 and older, adolescents, adults, and families. I am committed to working with you to find the best approach to your unique needs and goals to help you navigate life’s challenges authentically and encourage you to find sustainable change.
I believe in a collaborative therapeutic process that prioritizes creating an inclusive and nonjudgmental space rooted in empathy, vulnerability, curiosity, and trust. My experience includes working with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, challenging life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I work with children 6 and older, adolescents, adults, and families. I am committed to working with you to find the best approach to your unique needs and goals to help you navigate life’s challenges authentically and encourage you to find sustainable change.
(425) 414-3925 View (425) 414-3925
Photo of Mohamed Abdelaziz, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Mohamed Abdelaziz
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
9 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I work with folks who are dealing with a wide range of challenges. I can help you navigate the impact of trauma on your daily life as you work to integrate lessons from the past and find hope for the future. Anxiety and depression can be debilitating constraints leaving you feeling stuck, together we can work to understand their underlying causes and find effective ways to help you reconnect to your values and a renewed sense of agency. My hope is that our work can guide you towards reconnection, an enriched relationship with yourself, an invigorating relationship with others and an intentional connection to your present moment.
I work with folks who are dealing with a wide range of challenges. I can help you navigate the impact of trauma on your daily life as you work to integrate lessons from the past and find hope for the future. Anxiety and depression can be debilitating constraints leaving you feeling stuck, together we can work to understand their underlying causes and find effective ways to help you reconnect to your values and a renewed sense of agency. My hope is that our work can guide you towards reconnection, an enriched relationship with yourself, an invigorating relationship with others and an intentional connection to your present moment.
(425) 264-8684 View (425) 264-8684
Photo of Caitlin Elisabeth Pitchon, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Caitlin Elisabeth Pitchon
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Kirkland, WA 98033
Welcome! Everyone has a story to tell, and yours matters. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, body image, or relationship challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. I believe in your ability to heal and create lasting change. Together we’ll focus on solutions that empower you—building coping skills, supporting recovery, and working toward body acceptance and self-compassion. My goal is to help you find clarity, peace, and the confidence to move forward with hope.
Welcome! Everyone has a story to tell, and yours matters. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, body image, or relationship challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. I believe in your ability to heal and create lasting change. Together we’ll focus on solutions that empower you—building coping skills, supporting recovery, and working toward body acceptance and self-compassion. My goal is to help you find clarity, peace, and the confidence to move forward with hope.
(425) 225-3567 View (425) 225-3567
Photo of Stacie Burke, Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Stacie Burke
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Kirkland, WA 98033
Navigating through life’s transitions can be both intimidating and overwhelming – and yet, this discomfort is often an essential step towards growth and positive change. I partner with clients who are feeling stuck in work, school, relationships, or other personal situations, and help them to think critically and often differently.
Navigating through life’s transitions can be both intimidating and overwhelming – and yet, this discomfort is often an essential step towards growth and positive change. I partner with clients who are feeling stuck in work, school, relationships, or other personal situations, and help them to think critically and often differently.
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Photo of Amanda H Abou-Zaki, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Amanda H Abou-Zaki
Counselor, MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Life is unpredictable with many ups and downs. No matter how much we want life to move in a linear fashion it often goes unplanned causing us to feel off balance. I believe therapy is a safe place to begin your own personal journey and learning to be present in your life. It allows you to rediscover who you are. Therapy is different for every individual and/or couple. I have an EMDR, existential & integrative approach to helping clients create healthy, fulfilling and rewarding lives. I integrate therapeutic styles depending on the best fit for client and situation.
Life is unpredictable with many ups and downs. No matter how much we want life to move in a linear fashion it often goes unplanned causing us to feel off balance. I believe therapy is a safe place to begin your own personal journey and learning to be present in your life. It allows you to rediscover who you are. Therapy is different for every individual and/or couple. I have an EMDR, existential & integrative approach to helping clients create healthy, fulfilling and rewarding lives. I integrate therapeutic styles depending on the best fit for client and situation.
(425) 217-1348 View (425) 217-1348
Photo of Robert Espiau, Counselor, LMHC
Robert Espiau
Counselor, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I have worked as a counselor and clinical director for over 30 years. I specialize in healing PTSD, Religious Trauma, and variations of trauma. I can help you to resolve panic attacks, anxiety, and sexual abuse without medications; I also specialize in couples counseling, depression, and can help you to stop nightmares without the use of medications. I have a strong background in cross-cultural psychology, having lived in 8 countries and studied the nature of consciousness as a monastic for six years; this has given me a diverse and complex perspective on life and people. I currently live in Cambodia, Thailand and the US.
I have worked as a counselor and clinical director for over 30 years. I specialize in healing PTSD, Religious Trauma, and variations of trauma. I can help you to resolve panic attacks, anxiety, and sexual abuse without medications; I also specialize in couples counseling, depression, and can help you to stop nightmares without the use of medications. I have a strong background in cross-cultural psychology, having lived in 8 countries and studied the nature of consciousness as a monastic for six years; this has given me a diverse and complex perspective on life and people. I currently live in Cambodia, Thailand and the US.
(206) 875-2731 View (206) 875-2731
Photo of Luz Maria Ochoa-Meyers, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Luz Maria Ochoa-Meyers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Kirkland, WA 98033
Therapy is a challenging process of self-discovery. It requires curiosity, honesty, vulnerability, persistence and courage. In this process I am looking to partner with individuals who are tired of feeling unsuccessful and out of place in their own life and who are ready to commit to their own healing. I am fully bi-lingual/bi-cultural, and bring to my practice the wealth and flavor of 25 years of many modalities and experience, working with people from around the world.
Therapy is a challenging process of self-discovery. It requires curiosity, honesty, vulnerability, persistence and courage. In this process I am looking to partner with individuals who are tired of feeling unsuccessful and out of place in their own life and who are ready to commit to their own healing. I am fully bi-lingual/bi-cultural, and bring to my practice the wealth and flavor of 25 years of many modalities and experience, working with people from around the world.
(206) 965-8761 View (206) 965-8761
Photo of Lois Ahreum Yang - Ahreum Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MACFT
Ahreum Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MACFT
6 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Worries, stress, hardships are oftentimes inevitable throughout our lives. But in the midst of all that we cannot control, it can still be possible to find the rest you are searching for, in your soul. If it is your first time exploring the realm of therapy, welcome, and if it has been a bit since you’ve been on this journey, I am so thankful you have found yourself here at this profile. Whether you have heard it once or multiple times, you are a beloved individual who has the ability to heal, grow, and find life in whatever circumstance you have been through, are currently going through, or anticipate facing in the future.
Worries, stress, hardships are oftentimes inevitable throughout our lives. But in the midst of all that we cannot control, it can still be possible to find the rest you are searching for, in your soul. If it is your first time exploring the realm of therapy, welcome, and if it has been a bit since you’ve been on this journey, I am so thankful you have found yourself here at this profile. Whether you have heard it once or multiple times, you are a beloved individual who has the ability to heal, grow, and find life in whatever circumstance you have been through, are currently going through, or anticipate facing in the future.
(206) 414-8918 View (206) 414-8918
Photo of Amisha Gandhi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Amisha Gandhi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
6 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel intimidating, especially if it's your first time or if past experiences have been disappointing. Finding a therapist who truly understands your struggles—whether due to cultural background, personal history, or life challenges—can be a difficult task. I am deeply committed to helping and listening to individuals, couples, and families. I support people of color, adolescents (12+), and adults of all ages as they navigate life's toughest challenges, from anxiety and depression to school issues, divorce, relationship struggles, family dynamics, and work-life balance and life transition.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel intimidating, especially if it's your first time or if past experiences have been disappointing. Finding a therapist who truly understands your struggles—whether due to cultural background, personal history, or life challenges—can be a difficult task. I am deeply committed to helping and listening to individuals, couples, and families. I support people of color, adolescents (12+), and adults of all ages as they navigate life's toughest challenges, from anxiety and depression to school issues, divorce, relationship struggles, family dynamics, and work-life balance and life transition.
(425) 399-5891 x56 View (425) 399-5891 x56
Photo of Sam Noble, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Sam Noble
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
We inhabit a world that demands that we constantly cope with it. At times, with all the coping, a part of our spirit may become so heavy with ache and despair that we begin to wish that part would vanish forever so we can find relief. But it is often that very part calling out for care, love, and tenderness. Perhaps you are tired of "coping," and you ache for healing, a greater capacity to truly rest, or a stronger sense of meaning and self-love. Many of my clients are LGBTQ+ folks, or abuse survivors - adults who deal with profound personal trauma and loss, issues of identity, depression, anxiety, shame, and loneliness.
We inhabit a world that demands that we constantly cope with it. At times, with all the coping, a part of our spirit may become so heavy with ache and despair that we begin to wish that part would vanish forever so we can find relief. But it is often that very part calling out for care, love, and tenderness. Perhaps you are tired of "coping," and you ache for healing, a greater capacity to truly rest, or a stronger sense of meaning and self-love. Many of my clients are LGBTQ+ folks, or abuse survivors - adults who deal with profound personal trauma and loss, issues of identity, depression, anxiety, shame, and loneliness.
(425) 689-7175 View (425) 689-7175
Photo of Brian McKenzie, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LMHCA
Brian McKenzie
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LMHCA
12 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Hello, and welcome to my page! My name is Brian, and I'm a therapist here at Self Space Kirkland. I believe everyone faces challenging moments, and whether you're new to therapy or continuing your journey, I'm honored to be part of your healing experience. I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, or repetitive patterns. My goal is to support you in building on the many strengths you already possess so you can move toward a life that feels truly fulfilling and connected.
Hello, and welcome to my page! My name is Brian, and I'm a therapist here at Self Space Kirkland. I believe everyone faces challenging moments, and whether you're new to therapy or continuing your journey, I'm honored to be part of your healing experience. I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, or repetitive patterns. My goal is to support you in building on the many strengths you already possess so you can move toward a life that feels truly fulfilling and connected.
(425) 386-5810 View (425) 386-5810
Photo of Louis Zagula, Pre-Licensed Professional
Louis Zagula
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, and looking to explore what's beneath the surface? I believe therapy provides a space where you can be fully seen, heard, and understood without judgment. My work is grounded in curiosity and a deep trust in your capacity to change. While therapy can help with specific problems or symptoms, I also see it as an opportunity to engage with life more fully and discover new ways of seeing yourself and your situation.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, and looking to explore what's beneath the surface? I believe therapy provides a space where you can be fully seen, heard, and understood without judgment. My work is grounded in curiosity and a deep trust in your capacity to change. While therapy can help with specific problems or symptoms, I also see it as an opportunity to engage with life more fully and discover new ways of seeing yourself and your situation.
(425) 358-9506 View (425) 358-9506
Photo of Anna Margolina, PhD, CHT
Anna Margolina
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
If you know you are intelligent, accomplished and capable person, why there are things you cannot control? Maybe you cannot make yourself fall asleep when you know you need rest. Maybe you have butterflies in your stomach when you need to give a speech. Maybe you crave sugar. Maybe you cannot control your emotions and your thoughts. They are your unconscious, automatic behaviors and they cannot be controlled by your willpower or logical thoughts. This is where hypnosis can be very helpful. Hypnosis works with your unconscious mind, making positive changes faster and easier.
If you know you are intelligent, accomplished and capable person, why there are things you cannot control? Maybe you cannot make yourself fall asleep when you know you need rest. Maybe you have butterflies in your stomach when you need to give a speech. Maybe you crave sugar. Maybe you cannot control your emotions and your thoughts. They are your unconscious, automatic behaviors and they cannot be controlled by your willpower or logical thoughts. This is where hypnosis can be very helpful. Hypnosis works with your unconscious mind, making positive changes faster and easier.
(425) 474-5574 View (425) 474-5574
Photo of Kim Lampson - NUhope Community Counseling Center, PhD
NUhope Community Counseling Center
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
NUhope Is a university-based community counseling clinic that provides affordable counseling services to people in our community. We offer individual therapy, Gottman Method couples therapy, family therapy, and assessments. Working with each client to develop an individualized treatment plan, we are responsive to the needs of a multicultural community. Our therapists are graduate students at Northwest U who work under the supervision of licensed therapists.
NUhope Is a university-based community counseling clinic that provides affordable counseling services to people in our community. We offer individual therapy, Gottman Method couples therapy, family therapy, and assessments. Working with each client to develop an individualized treatment plan, we are responsive to the needs of a multicultural community. Our therapists are graduate students at Northwest U who work under the supervision of licensed therapists.
(425) 970-9754 View (425) 970-9754
Photo of Lindsay Regan, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Lindsay Regan
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
We all experience suffering, distress, or relational difficulty at different times in our lives. I work from a Christian worldview and believe that healing and growth take place within supportive relationships. Thus, I seek to offer you a trusted space to process the vulnerable parts of your story. We will collaboratively explore relationships and patterns that have influenced current thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviors. The goal will be to uncover the root causes of your concerns and address past wounds that keep you stuck and hold you back from the flourishing and wholeness you were created for.
We all experience suffering, distress, or relational difficulty at different times in our lives. I work from a Christian worldview and believe that healing and growth take place within supportive relationships. Thus, I seek to offer you a trusted space to process the vulnerable parts of your story. We will collaboratively explore relationships and patterns that have influenced current thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviors. The goal will be to uncover the root causes of your concerns and address past wounds that keep you stuck and hold you back from the flourishing and wholeness you were created for.
(425) 728-2088 View (425) 728-2088
Photo of Cynthia Morales - Newport Academy, Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Newport Academy
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Kirkland, WA 98033
The foundation of our programming is our team of compassionate and highly experienced behavioral healthcare professionals. The Newport staff is comprised of the best mental health leaders in the country, surrounding each client with 360-degree care. Because Newport’s philosophy of care views family as central to long-term, sustainable healing, the groundbreaking Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) methodology is also a central component of our approach. ABFT is proven to be successful in addressing adolescent and young adult suicidality by repairing ruptures in the parent-child relationship.
The foundation of our programming is our team of compassionate and highly experienced behavioral healthcare professionals. The Newport staff is comprised of the best mental health leaders in the country, surrounding each client with 360-degree care. Because Newport’s philosophy of care views family as central to long-term, sustainable healing, the groundbreaking Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) methodology is also a central component of our approach. ABFT is proven to be successful in addressing adolescent and young adult suicidality by repairing ruptures in the parent-child relationship.
(425) 474-5205 View (425) 474-5205
Photo of Christin LaRue, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Christin LaRue
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Kirkland, WA 98033
Relationships are what bring us joy in our lives, but sometimes despite our best efforts we come upon a stumbling block. We find ourselves struggling or unable to connect to those we love and sometimes even to ourselves. Maybe issues from past relationships get in the way, maybe there is a trauma to the relationship (such as illness, job loss, or simply entering a new stage of life such as parenthood or midlife). There may have been an infidelity, loss of job, or emotional issues such as depression / anxiety. Often we just feel a lack of connection we once had.
Relationships are what bring us joy in our lives, but sometimes despite our best efforts we come upon a stumbling block. We find ourselves struggling or unable to connect to those we love and sometimes even to ourselves. Maybe issues from past relationships get in the way, maybe there is a trauma to the relationship (such as illness, job loss, or simply entering a new stage of life such as parenthood or midlife). There may have been an infidelity, loss of job, or emotional issues such as depression / anxiety. Often we just feel a lack of connection we once had.
(425) 610-7941 View (425) 610-7941
Photo of Sadie Jacobson, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Sadie Jacobson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
5 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I see you as the expert of your own life, and I am here to be present and be with you as you move forward towards greater awareness, connection, authenticity, and wholeness. Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, a big life transition? Maybe you are grappling with trauma or moving through grief? I am here to offer you support. So often our experience of the world can make us feel alone and overwhelmed. My aim is to provide compassionate and relational care, creating a space where you can come as you are and move towards healing, however that looks like for you.
I see you as the expert of your own life, and I am here to be present and be with you as you move forward towards greater awareness, connection, authenticity, and wholeness. Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, a big life transition? Maybe you are grappling with trauma or moving through grief? I am here to offer you support. So often our experience of the world can make us feel alone and overwhelmed. My aim is to provide compassionate and relational care, creating a space where you can come as you are and move towards healing, however that looks like for you.
(206) 414-8918 x41 View (206) 414-8918 x41
Photo of Lisa Coll, Counselor, LMHC
Lisa Coll
Counselor, LMHC
Kirkland, WA 98033
Life comes with joy and pain, love and anger, accomplishments and mess-ups, and sometimes confusion. The times when we struggle and feel stuck or confused as individuals, as couples & as parents are often signals that it’s time to grow. I work collaboratively with my clients and have great success utilizing techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as Narrative and Psychodynamic therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, grief and eating disorders. I also work with individuals, couples and families facing every day parenting, life and relationship challenges.
Life comes with joy and pain, love and anger, accomplishments and mess-ups, and sometimes confusion. The times when we struggle and feel stuck or confused as individuals, as couples & as parents are often signals that it’s time to grow. I work collaboratively with my clients and have great success utilizing techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as Narrative and Psychodynamic therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, grief and eating disorders. I also work with individuals, couples and families facing every day parenting, life and relationship challenges.
(914) 335-3915 View (914) 335-3915
Photo of Emily West, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Emily West
Counselor, MA, LMHC
13 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I have extensive experience supporting people through anxiety, depression, impacts of past trauma, grief, and major life transitions, including empty-nesting, menopause, and career changes. My clients often want to deepen their self-awareness, understand how the past impacts the present, and find ways of living with more meaning and contentment. I enjoy supporting people who might identify as “late bloomers” and are exploring deeper life questions about purpose and choice. Therapy with me often includes greater access to creative self-expression and finding ways of living with more authenticity and satisfaction.
I have extensive experience supporting people through anxiety, depression, impacts of past trauma, grief, and major life transitions, including empty-nesting, menopause, and career changes. My clients often want to deepen their self-awareness, understand how the past impacts the present, and find ways of living with more meaning and contentment. I enjoy supporting people who might identify as “late bloomers” and are exploring deeper life questions about purpose and choice. Therapy with me often includes greater access to creative self-expression and finding ways of living with more authenticity and satisfaction.
(425) 585-2872 x48 View (425) 585-2872 x48

See more therapy options for 98033

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98033

400+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in 98033 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
85% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Premera Blue Cross
68% Regence
65% Aetna

How Therapists in 98033 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98033?

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.