Therapists in 98372

Photo of Andrea Tuliao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
Andrea Tuliao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
(253) 465-4502 View (253) 465-4502
Shawna Surface
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Puyallup, WA 98372
Accepting new patients. Shawna is attending Grand Canyon Arizona University where she will obtain her masters in Counseling. She is taking courses to work with children and families. She enjoys working with the family system and is personable and easy to talk to. She has lots of experience ranging from care giver to case worker in the field of counseling and is a great asset to our group practice.
Accepting new patients. Shawna is attending Grand Canyon Arizona University where she will obtain her masters in Counseling. She is taking courses to work with children and families. She enjoys working with the family system and is personable and easy to talk to. She has lots of experience ranging from care giver to case worker in the field of counseling and is a great asset to our group practice.
(253) 465-2685 View (253) 465-2685
Photo of Mikayla Gaouette, Counselor, LMHCA
Mikayla Gaouette
Counselor, LMHCA
Puyallup, WA 98372
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward in certain areas of your life? Maybe stress, life transitions, or past experiences have left you feeling disconnected from yourself or unsure how to create the change you want. You may be carrying a lot internally while trying to manage everything on the outside, longing for a place where you can slow down, be heard, and make sense of what you're experiencing.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward in certain areas of your life? Maybe stress, life transitions, or past experiences have left you feeling disconnected from yourself or unsure how to create the change you want. You may be carrying a lot internally while trying to manage everything on the outside, longing for a place where you can slow down, be heard, and make sense of what you're experiencing.
(253) 367-3744 View (253) 367-3744
Photo of Kassandrea E Manuele, Counselor, LMHC
Kassandrea E Manuele
Counselor, LMHC
Puyallup, WA 98372
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
(253) 900-2430 View (253) 900-2430
Photo of Christy Munro, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Christy Munro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Our innate human desire and need for love and connection is undeniable. In my work with families, individuals and partners, I encourage my clients to uncover and share feelings that often lie underneath dysfunctional patterns and interactions. This systemic perspective also values reflection on the impact from our families of origin. I also aim to nurture a strong sense of identity and self worth, believing this is imperative in finding balance in our unpredictable, confusing world.
Our innate human desire and need for love and connection is undeniable. In my work with families, individuals and partners, I encourage my clients to uncover and share feelings that often lie underneath dysfunctional patterns and interactions. This systemic perspective also values reflection on the impact from our families of origin. I also aim to nurture a strong sense of identity and self worth, believing this is imperative in finding balance in our unpredictable, confusing world.
(253) 780-0725 View (253) 780-0725
Photo of Autumn Via, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Autumn Via
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Every person has a story to tell and deserves a place to express their experiences and feelings related to their journey through life. Our stories often carry great joy and happiness along with great loss, pain, and trauma. These complex experiences create energy that can negatively impact your internal narrative and relationships with others. This can be difficult to understand alone. Finding alliance and empathy through the therapeutic process can give that energy a place to be acknowledged, processed, and seen, ultimately by gaining insight for lasting self compassion.
Every person has a story to tell and deserves a place to express their experiences and feelings related to their journey through life. Our stories often carry great joy and happiness along with great loss, pain, and trauma. These complex experiences create energy that can negatively impact your internal narrative and relationships with others. This can be difficult to understand alone. Finding alliance and empathy through the therapeutic process can give that energy a place to be acknowledged, processed, and seen, ultimately by gaining insight for lasting self compassion.
(253) 785-8693 View (253) 785-8693
Photo of Becca Johnstone, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Becca Johnstone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
You may be standing at a threshold, unsure of what comes next. Maybe you're feeling disconnected—from your partner, your family, or even yourself. Maybe you've spent years shaping yourself to fit others’ expectations, and now you're wondering: What would it mean to choose myself? Therapy can be a space to untangle those old patterns, to grieve what’s been lost or denied, and to begin the work of becoming who you were always meant to be.
You may be standing at a threshold, unsure of what comes next. Maybe you're feeling disconnected—from your partner, your family, or even yourself. Maybe you've spent years shaping yourself to fit others’ expectations, and now you're wondering: What would it mean to choose myself? Therapy can be a space to untangle those old patterns, to grieve what’s been lost or denied, and to begin the work of becoming who you were always meant to be.
(253) 785-9190 View (253) 785-9190
Photo of Angela Meach, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angela Meach
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Her objective is to assist clients in constructing their abilities. I want to create a collaborative safe space for clients to grow and recognize their potential. Through a healthy therapeutic relationship, I hope to assist in my client’s healing journey. You matter and deserve to be here.” She has experience working with immigrant families. She has a familiarity with multicultural counseling. She understands and speaks Khmer. Angela wants to utilize narrative therapy, positive thinking, CBT, and play therapy. She has more than 6 years of experience working with school-age children. She intends to empower, guide, and collaborate wi
Her objective is to assist clients in constructing their abilities. I want to create a collaborative safe space for clients to grow and recognize their potential. Through a healthy therapeutic relationship, I hope to assist in my client’s healing journey. You matter and deserve to be here.” She has experience working with immigrant families. She has a familiarity with multicultural counseling. She understands and speaks Khmer. Angela wants to utilize narrative therapy, positive thinking, CBT, and play therapy. She has more than 6 years of experience working with school-age children. She intends to empower, guide, and collaborate wi
(253) 364-1824 View (253) 364-1824
Photo of Christie Seligman - Christie Seligman of Ash and Birch Counseling PLLC, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Christie Seligman of Ash and Birch Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I believe strongly in the inner capacity of all humans to grow and heal in mind, body, and spirit from trauma or barriers faced in life. Due to our interconnected nature, this healing capacity is deepened and broadened through the assistance and support of others. I seek to hold a safe space through the therapeutic relationship to allow for the development of greater understanding and appreciation of self. Through this process, people begin to heal, make meaningful changes and courageously act in ways that reflect their authentic self.
I believe strongly in the inner capacity of all humans to grow and heal in mind, body, and spirit from trauma or barriers faced in life. Due to our interconnected nature, this healing capacity is deepened and broadened through the assistance and support of others. I seek to hold a safe space through the therapeutic relationship to allow for the development of greater understanding and appreciation of self. Through this process, people begin to heal, make meaningful changes and courageously act in ways that reflect their authentic self.
(206) 429-6299 View (206) 429-6299
Photo of Alexandra Molleston Luke - The Salish Sea Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
The Salish Sea Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
(253) 655-2757 View (253) 655-2757
Photo of Sarah E Hoaglin - Cornerstone Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP, MA, CMHS
Cornerstone Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP, MA, CMHS
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
We repeat what we don't repair." Christine Langley-Obaugh. At Cornerstone Counseling, we believe in the power of healing and growth. We understand that individuals often find themselves trapped in repetitive patterns that prevent them from living their best lives. Inspired by the quote above, we are dedicated to helping clients break free from these patterns by providing compassionate therapy and facilitating deep personal transformation. Our holistic approach combines evidence-based techniques with empathy, providing a safe space for clients to explore, heal, and grow. Let us support you on your journey to a more fulfilling life
We repeat what we don't repair." Christine Langley-Obaugh. At Cornerstone Counseling, we believe in the power of healing and growth. We understand that individuals often find themselves trapped in repetitive patterns that prevent them from living their best lives. Inspired by the quote above, we are dedicated to helping clients break free from these patterns by providing compassionate therapy and facilitating deep personal transformation. Our holistic approach combines evidence-based techniques with empathy, providing a safe space for clients to explore, heal, and grow. Let us support you on your journey to a more fulfilling life
(253) 799-0582 View (253) 799-0582
Photo of Abby White, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Abby White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
6 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I enjoy working with people experiencing difficulty in all elements of life. I look through the lens of family systems which means I incorporate family dynamics and looking at generational patterns to learn more about what is presently impacting the clients ability to function optimally. I specialize in working with families all together to support change longevity. I particularly enjoy working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or facing relationship difficulty. I use many methods to help people process their stress and trauma including art, movement, talk, and practicing alternative ways to navigate the world.
I enjoy working with people experiencing difficulty in all elements of life. I look through the lens of family systems which means I incorporate family dynamics and looking at generational patterns to learn more about what is presently impacting the clients ability to function optimally. I specialize in working with families all together to support change longevity. I particularly enjoy working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or facing relationship difficulty. I use many methods to help people process their stress and trauma including art, movement, talk, and practicing alternative ways to navigate the world.
(360) 780-3005 View (360) 780-3005
Photo of Nicole Camarena, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, AAC
Nicole Camarena
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, AAC
Puyallup, WA 98372
Available for new clients offering a space where you can feel heard, seen, and supported while navigating life experiences. Grounded in a collaborative and humanistic approach to build on your strengths, honor your culture, identities, and work toward creating new paths that fit who you are and where you want to go. I respect and value different backgrounds, traditions, and experiences that shape who you are. I take an integrated approach to therapy because I know every person is unique and deserves support that fits their individual needs. I also bring in the value of peer counseling, with the importance of community support.
Available for new clients offering a space where you can feel heard, seen, and supported while navigating life experiences. Grounded in a collaborative and humanistic approach to build on your strengths, honor your culture, identities, and work toward creating new paths that fit who you are and where you want to go. I respect and value different backgrounds, traditions, and experiences that shape who you are. I take an integrated approach to therapy because I know every person is unique and deserves support that fits their individual needs. I also bring in the value of peer counseling, with the importance of community support.
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Photo of Milissa Burkey, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, NCC
Milissa Burkey
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, NCC
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds and strive to create a safe, inclusive space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. My ideal client is someone who is willing to explore their challenges and approach the therapeutic process with openness, curiosity, and intention. I take a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy, tailoring our work to meet your unique needs, experiences, and goals. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and engaged, allowing for an authentic connection that supports meaningful growth and lasting change.
I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds and strive to create a safe, inclusive space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. My ideal client is someone who is willing to explore their challenges and approach the therapeutic process with openness, curiosity, and intention. I take a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy, tailoring our work to meet your unique needs, experiences, and goals. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and engaged, allowing for an authentic connection that supports meaningful growth and lasting change.
(253) 364-7458 View (253) 364-7458
Photo of Roger Hoeschen, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Roger Hoeschen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth offering evening and weekend sessions to meet the needs of working professional. Roger is enthusiastic about implementing creative techniques to help clients achieve their goals, make meaning, improve their relationships, find empowerment, and engage in self-understanding and discovery. Roger’s theoretical approach to clients is person-centered and humanistic, paired with eclectic interventions including dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, relational-cultural therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and existential techniques.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth offering evening and weekend sessions to meet the needs of working professional. Roger is enthusiastic about implementing creative techniques to help clients achieve their goals, make meaning, improve their relationships, find empowerment, and engage in self-understanding and discovery. Roger’s theoretical approach to clients is person-centered and humanistic, paired with eclectic interventions including dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, relational-cultural therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and existential techniques.
(253) 265-4278 View (253) 265-4278
Photo of Stephan Westcott, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephan Westcott
Pre-Licensed Professional
Puyallup, WA 98372
Regardless of your background, values, identity, or culture, you are welcome here. My aim is to create a warm, safe space where we can collaborate on your goals and work together toward them. I’m here to support you on your unique path toward greater self-understanding, healing, and growth. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups across the lifespan. I support clients navigating a wide variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, career challenges, relationship issues, trauma, and grief.
Regardless of your background, values, identity, or culture, you are welcome here. My aim is to create a warm, safe space where we can collaborate on your goals and work together toward them. I’m here to support you on your unique path toward greater self-understanding, healing, and growth. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups across the lifespan. I support clients navigating a wide variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, career challenges, relationship issues, trauma, and grief.
(253) 340-4677 View (253) 340-4677
Photo of Dr. Deanna Brown, Counselor, MA, LMHC, PsyD, PhD
Dr. Deanna Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PsyD, PhD
11 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Accepting New Patients in my practice with afternoon, day, morning, evening slots available Telehealth and In person. I am a proud Army Veteran working in the field of counseling since 2015. I have experience working with combat veterans, CPS, couples, children, teens, adults, families, first responders, LGBTQ community, Licensed Approved Supervisor to Supervise Therapists, and a prior Director of a Psychiatric Hospital. I specialize in Autism Assessments, ADHD assessments, Psychedelic Ketamine and THC Guided Therapy which is billed at private pay all other treatments cab be billed with insurances using therapists at our practice.
Accepting New Patients in my practice with afternoon, day, morning, evening slots available Telehealth and In person. I am a proud Army Veteran working in the field of counseling since 2015. I have experience working with combat veterans, CPS, couples, children, teens, adults, families, first responders, LGBTQ community, Licensed Approved Supervisor to Supervise Therapists, and a prior Director of a Psychiatric Hospital. I specialize in Autism Assessments, ADHD assessments, Psychedelic Ketamine and THC Guided Therapy which is billed at private pay all other treatments cab be billed with insurances using therapists at our practice.
(206) 717-8722 View (206) 717-8722
Photo of Melissa Glaze, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Melissa Glaze
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
5 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
My ideal clients often feel overwhelmed, stuck in familiar relationship or life patterns, or unsure how to trust themselves during seasons of change or stress. Many are deeply empathetic, highly sensitive, and have felt misunderstood or pressured to shrink themselves to fit expectations or environments that weren’t built with them in mind. I work especially well with neurodivergent individuals, couples, and people navigating identity, grief, trauma, and belonging. They want relief from overwhelm, secure relationships with healthy communication, clearer emotional understanding, and greater trust in themselves and their needs.
My ideal clients often feel overwhelmed, stuck in familiar relationship or life patterns, or unsure how to trust themselves during seasons of change or stress. Many are deeply empathetic, highly sensitive, and have felt misunderstood or pressured to shrink themselves to fit expectations or environments that weren’t built with them in mind. I work especially well with neurodivergent individuals, couples, and people navigating identity, grief, trauma, and belonging. They want relief from overwhelm, secure relationships with healthy communication, clearer emotional understanding, and greater trust in themselves and their needs.
(253) 259-2861 View (253) 259-2861
Photo of Kelly Bell - Kelly Bell of Ash & Birch Counseling, PLLC, Counselor, MA, LMHCA, SUDPT
Kelly Bell of Ash & Birch Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, SUDPT
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating; it can be a place for genuine and meaningful conversation. I view therapy as a process of making sense of your story and creating the changes you want in your life.
Therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating; it can be a place for genuine and meaningful conversation. I view therapy as a process of making sense of your story and creating the changes you want in your life.
(253) 400-2574 View (253) 400-2574
Photo of Brittney Craig, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Brittney Craig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead the life you want. 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 the life you want. 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.
(206) 743-9987 View (206) 743-9987

See more therapy options for 98372

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98372

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 98372 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
91% Social Anxiety
91% Health Anxiety
91% Driving Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Stress
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Premera Blue Cross
86% Aetna
85% Regence

How Therapists in 98372 see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
13% Male
5% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98372?

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.