Photo of Julie Archer, Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Julie Archer
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are reading this, you have already taken the first step towards improving the quality of your life. Counseling is the process that evokes change through vulnerability, connection, openness, trust, and bringing your inner world into the light. Discovering your purpose, meaning, dysfunctional patterns of behavior and thoughts can alleviate the weight you are carrying around. I enjoy working with people who are dealing with relationship issues (of all kinds!), anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, attachment, depression, trauma, codependency, and negative self-talk. I am also increasing my knowledge around Ketamine and Autism.
If you are reading this, you have already taken the first step towards improving the quality of your life. Counseling is the process that evokes change through vulnerability, connection, openness, trust, and bringing your inner world into the light. Discovering your purpose, meaning, dysfunctional patterns of behavior and thoughts can alleviate the weight you are carrying around. I enjoy working with people who are dealing with relationship issues (of all kinds!), anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, attachment, depression, trauma, codependency, and negative self-talk. I am also increasing my knowledge around Ketamine and Autism.
(360) 787-9355 View (360) 787-9355
Photo of Melissa Cantwell, Counselor, MA Ed, LHMCA
Melissa Cantwell
Counselor, MA Ed, LHMCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98663
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate at A Better Way Counseling. This is a second career for me. I have spent the last 18 years in the world of public education with a master's degree in Special Education. The majority of my career has been spent supporting families and their children through the education system with the resources they need to succeed. I have worked with children ages 3-21 with a wide variety of disabilities such as autism, ADHD, visual impairments, dyslexia, communication disorders, anxiety, depression, and more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate at A Better Way Counseling. This is a second career for me. I have spent the last 18 years in the world of public education with a master's degree in Special Education. The majority of my career has been spent supporting families and their children through the education system with the resources they need to succeed. I have worked with children ages 3-21 with a wide variety of disabilities such as autism, ADHD, visual impairments, dyslexia, communication disorders, anxiety, depression, and more.
(360) 843-2108 View (360) 843-2108
Photo of Trish Kuipers-Dawson - Steadfast Counseling PLLC, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Steadfast Counseling PLLC
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults and teens dealing with anxiety, depression,‬ ‭trauma (PTSD), postpartum & parenting issues, life adjustments, and relationship challenges. I aim to create a warm and inviting space where you can express your thoughts and feelings with compassion and without fear of judgment. Clients who seek my help often look for a relatable and empathetic therapist who values connection and curiosity. I view therapy as a collaborative process that helps clients recognize their strengths, identify their needs, break unhealthy patterns, and make informed choices aligned with their values.
I work with adults and teens dealing with anxiety, depression,‬ ‭trauma (PTSD), postpartum & parenting issues, life adjustments, and relationship challenges. I aim to create a warm and inviting space where you can express your thoughts and feelings with compassion and without fear of judgment. Clients who seek my help often look for a relatable and empathetic therapist who values connection and curiosity. I view therapy as a collaborative process that helps clients recognize their strengths, identify their needs, break unhealthy patterns, and make informed choices aligned with their values.
(360) 495-1702 View (360) 495-1702
Photo of Megan Parrott, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Megan Parrott
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
You are not meant to be perfect; you are meant to be whole. A whole life is a mixture of good and bad. Both experiences are needed to for a wider perspective and to allow for a full appreciation of the positives in life. I work with kids, tweens, teens, and beyond, either individually or as a family, to help you achieve the life you want. We will explore your current experience, and where you want life to go, then figure out the needed knowledge, skill-building, and actions to move you (and/or your family) toward your goals and ideal life. You deserve a happy and fulfilling life, whatever that looks like for you.
You are not meant to be perfect; you are meant to be whole. A whole life is a mixture of good and bad. Both experiences are needed to for a wider perspective and to allow for a full appreciation of the positives in life. I work with kids, tweens, teens, and beyond, either individually or as a family, to help you achieve the life you want. We will explore your current experience, and where you want life to go, then figure out the needed knowledge, skill-building, and actions to move you (and/or your family) toward your goals and ideal life. You deserve a happy and fulfilling life, whatever that looks like for you.
(360) 218-0636 View (360) 218-0636
Photo of Robert Frederick Johnson - A Better Way Counseling Service, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, LICSW
A Better Way Counseling Service
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98663
Waitlist for new clients
Here at A Better Way Counseling Services, our mission is to be of service to our Washington community, far and near. We offer quality mental health counseling, training, and classes on a variety of helpful topics. Our philosophy is to work with people from an individualized, needs-driven, and strength-based focus. We are committed to offering quality mental health services to all people, regardless of religious preference, race, sex, income, sexual orientation, or education. A fundamental principle of our service is to treat everyone with respect and dignity.
Here at A Better Way Counseling Services, our mission is to be of service to our Washington community, far and near. We offer quality mental health counseling, training, and classes on a variety of helpful topics. Our philosophy is to work with people from an individualized, needs-driven, and strength-based focus. We are committed to offering quality mental health services to all people, regardless of religious preference, race, sex, income, sexual orientation, or education. A fundamental principle of our service is to treat everyone with respect and dignity.
(360) 443-9801 View (360) 443-9801
Photo of Breanna Moskovitz, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Breanna Moskovitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
Welcome! People usually find psychotherapy when their old ways of coping no longer work and they get stuck in dysfunctional patterns or relationships. Therapy is a place where you can increase insight into those patterns, develop new tools and have more fulfilling relationships. I am a multi-faceted practitioner who believes in meeting people where they are at, and building on the strengths and resources that you already possess. It is possible to find joy in the darkest of places.
Welcome! People usually find psychotherapy when their old ways of coping no longer work and they get stuck in dysfunctional patterns or relationships. Therapy is a place where you can increase insight into those patterns, develop new tools and have more fulfilling relationships. I am a multi-faceted practitioner who believes in meeting people where they are at, and building on the strengths and resources that you already possess. It is possible to find joy in the darkest of places.
(360) 900-1708 View (360) 900-1708
Photo of Jeanette L Edmister, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Jeanette L Edmister
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
I'm am licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), dedicated to providing compassionate support through life's most challenging moments. I specialize in helping individuals navigate grief and loss, manage ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, teen challenges, LGBTQIA+ affirmation and transitions through significant life stages. Sessions in my practice are often brightened by Spock, my trained miniature labradoodle, who can bring an extra dimension of comfort and connection to our work together. Many clients find that Spock's gentle presence helps ease anxiety and creates a more relaxed therapeutic environment.
I'm am licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), dedicated to providing compassionate support through life's most challenging moments. I specialize in helping individuals navigate grief and loss, manage ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, teen challenges, LGBTQIA+ affirmation and transitions through significant life stages. Sessions in my practice are often brightened by Spock, my trained miniature labradoodle, who can bring an extra dimension of comfort and connection to our work together. Many clients find that Spock's gentle presence helps ease anxiety and creates a more relaxed therapeutic environment.
(360) 404-7962 View (360) 404-7962
Photo of Sarah Wahl, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Sarah Wahl
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
Are the choices of others negatively affecting you? Are you losing your temper or isolating? Have you lost hope in the future or finding a solution? If you have said yes to any of those questions, you don't have to go through it alone. As your therapist, I make every effort to try and help you discover more effective ways of thinking, behaving, and coping with what has brought you to therapy. There are different paths you could take to freedom from your situation, together let's try and find the best path for you!
Are the choices of others negatively affecting you? Are you losing your temper or isolating? Have you lost hope in the future or finding a solution? If you have said yes to any of those questions, you don't have to go through it alone. As your therapist, I make every effort to try and help you discover more effective ways of thinking, behaving, and coping with what has brought you to therapy. There are different paths you could take to freedom from your situation, together let's try and find the best path for you!
(360) 919-0596 View (360) 919-0596
Photo of Krista Bacon - Endeavor Psychology & Consulting; Dr. Krista Bacon, Psychologist, PsyD
Endeavor Psychology & Consulting; Dr. Krista Bacon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
I am dedicated to helping individuals better understand their mental and emotional well-being. My approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and supportive. I have advanced training in assessment for various challenges, and I use a range of well-researched tools to offer clear insights to help you and your loved one better understand the situation to make informed decisions about treatment and/or support. I believe psychological assessments should be accessible and easy to understand. My role is to help you to navigate this process, offering answers and guidance in a way that is compassionate and grounded in professional expertise.
I am dedicated to helping individuals better understand their mental and emotional well-being. My approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and supportive. I have advanced training in assessment for various challenges, and I use a range of well-researched tools to offer clear insights to help you and your loved one better understand the situation to make informed decisions about treatment and/or support. I believe psychological assessments should be accessible and easy to understand. My role is to help you to navigate this process, offering answers and guidance in a way that is compassionate and grounded in professional expertise.
(360) 302-4522 View (360) 302-4522
Photo of Nancy Kyrie Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Nancy Kyrie Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My current focus is primarily on people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, attachment, life transitions, trauma, family and other interpersonal issues. I use a highly respectful approach in helping my clients address their issues and build effective coping and communication skills. This can include identifying and shifting limiting patterns (based on experiences of the past) that have continued to influence their present-day emotions, attitudes, interactions, expectations, and decisions. I work with each individual in a way that empowers them to stay in charge of their own therapeutic process.
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My current focus is primarily on people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, attachment, life transitions, trauma, family and other interpersonal issues. I use a highly respectful approach in helping my clients address their issues and build effective coping and communication skills. This can include identifying and shifting limiting patterns (based on experiences of the past) that have continued to influence their present-day emotions, attitudes, interactions, expectations, and decisions. I work with each individual in a way that empowers them to stay in charge of their own therapeutic process.
(360) 207-2598 View (360) 207-2598
Photo of Courtney Greif, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Courtney Greif
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to help make counseling feel comfortable, safe, and at your pace. We will work collaboratively to help you find your strength, feel empowered and confident, and rediscover meaning and purpose in your life. Talking through past or present tough experiences or hurts can be difficult. It’s tempting to try and ignore them or minimize how they are impacting you. Therapy can be a safe space to help you take the time needed to address your feelings in a way that will help you truly heal from the hurt, and discover how to engage with yourself in a healthy way that enables you to move forward.
My goal is to help make counseling feel comfortable, safe, and at your pace. We will work collaboratively to help you find your strength, feel empowered and confident, and rediscover meaning and purpose in your life. Talking through past or present tough experiences or hurts can be difficult. It’s tempting to try and ignore them or minimize how they are impacting you. Therapy can be a safe space to help you take the time needed to address your feelings in a way that will help you truly heal from the hurt, and discover how to engage with yourself in a healthy way that enables you to move forward.
(360) 858-8005 View (360) 858-8005
Photo of Linda Romig, Counselor, LMHC
Linda Romig
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
I believe that clients and counselors partner together to work towards optimum mental health for each client. I believe in client involvement in setting and working towards those goals through a variety of clinical interventions with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and DBT.
I believe that clients and counselors partner together to work towards optimum mental health for each client. I believe in client involvement in setting and working towards those goals through a variety of clinical interventions with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and DBT.
(360) 301-7940 View (360) 301-7940
Photo of Magen K Brown, Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, CMHS, TCT
Magen K Brown
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, CMHS, TCT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed mental health therapist for Washington and Oregon State, a child mental health specialist and transgender care specialist. I work with youth to individuals in later life stages. I focus on supporting an individual where they are at in life, letting them identify their needs and where they want to start in therapy. I am person centered and value my clients involvement in their therapy. I value collaboration with my clients.
I am a licensed mental health therapist for Washington and Oregon State, a child mental health specialist and transgender care specialist. I work with youth to individuals in later life stages. I focus on supporting an individual where they are at in life, letting them identify their needs and where they want to start in therapy. I am person centered and value my clients involvement in their therapy. I value collaboration with my clients.
(360) 227-6572 View (360) 227-6572
Photo of Chelsea Kerr, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Chelsea Kerr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
The importance of our relationships - with both ourselves and with others - cannot be overstated. With couples, I've seen that they develop patterns of interaction that can either support or undermine safe connection. When starting therapy, people often arrive feeling disconnected, unheard, or stuck in disconnection. It can feel like ruts in a dirt road that pull us in every time. Together we can work to understand your patterns, what motivates them, and how to free yourselves from unhelpful cycles. With compassion and openness, you can create relationships with greater intimacy, support, and understanding.
The importance of our relationships - with both ourselves and with others - cannot be overstated. With couples, I've seen that they develop patterns of interaction that can either support or undermine safe connection. When starting therapy, people often arrive feeling disconnected, unheard, or stuck in disconnection. It can feel like ruts in a dirt road that pull us in every time. Together we can work to understand your patterns, what motivates them, and how to free yourselves from unhelpful cycles. With compassion and openness, you can create relationships with greater intimacy, support, and understanding.
(360) 228-3225 View (360) 228-3225
Photo of Laura L Saviola, Psychologist
Laura L Saviola
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am accepting new patients, adults and couples, for online Telehealth Therapy. In my practice I believe each patient is unique, and I tailor my therapy sessions to meet the needs of each individual. I feel that specific goals and measurable progress are important in my practice, along with compassion. I create a warm and comfortable environment that allows patients to feel safe, open, and ready to change. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Acceptance and Commitment therapy during each session and weave in other techniques and theories such as Internal Family Systems, and more as needed.
I am accepting new patients, adults and couples, for online Telehealth Therapy. In my practice I believe each patient is unique, and I tailor my therapy sessions to meet the needs of each individual. I feel that specific goals and measurable progress are important in my practice, along with compassion. I create a warm and comfortable environment that allows patients to feel safe, open, and ready to change. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Acceptance and Commitment therapy during each session and weave in other techniques and theories such as Internal Family Systems, and more as needed.
(503) 563-8010 View (503) 563-8010
Photo of Kelly R. Fielding, Psychologist, PhD
Kelly R. Fielding
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, and have done so since I began practicing in 1994. Psychotherapy can be an uncomfortable experience, and I see myself as a fellow traveler in that journey. I have worked extensively with sexual abuse victims, anxiety, and depression. I am also a sex offender treatment provider.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, and have done so since I began practicing in 1994. Psychotherapy can be an uncomfortable experience, and I see myself as a fellow traveler in that journey. I have worked extensively with sexual abuse victims, anxiety, and depression. I am also a sex offender treatment provider.
(833) 988-4273 View (833) 988-4273
Photo of Margaret Browning - Healthy Thoughts Counseling & Consultation, LLC, Counselor, MSP, LMHC, MHP
Healthy Thoughts Counseling & Consultation, LLC
Counselor, MSP, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
Are you LIVING or just EXISTING? Depression, anxiety, fatigue, a sudden inability to manage stress, can erode your quality of life. At Healthy Thoughts Counseling we help guide you toward engaging in LIFE again. In some cases a brain injury can be a precipitating factor to the feelings of emotional disconnection. Brain injuries occur from a blunt trauma to the brain or stroke,residual damage can also occur with the occurrence of frequent severe migraines. Our services are not limited to Brain Injury, we provide marital/relationship counseling. We help you rebuild communication skills necessary to keep the relationship alive.
Are you LIVING or just EXISTING? Depression, anxiety, fatigue, a sudden inability to manage stress, can erode your quality of life. At Healthy Thoughts Counseling we help guide you toward engaging in LIFE again. In some cases a brain injury can be a precipitating factor to the feelings of emotional disconnection. Brain injuries occur from a blunt trauma to the brain or stroke,residual damage can also occur with the occurrence of frequent severe migraines. Our services are not limited to Brain Injury, we provide marital/relationship counseling. We help you rebuild communication skills necessary to keep the relationship alive.
(360) 339-8830 View (360) 339-8830
Photo of Hanako Baxter, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hanako Baxter
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98663
I believe that deep down, everyone has the potential to grow, heal, and become their most authentic self. But life can throw challenges our way—past experiences, current struggles, or simply the ways we’ve learned to navigate the world—that leave us feeling stuck. No matter where you are on your journey, I see you as the expert on your own life, even if it might not feel that way right now.
I believe that deep down, everyone has the potential to grow, heal, and become their most authentic self. But life can throw challenges our way—past experiences, current struggles, or simply the ways we’ve learned to navigate the world—that leave us feeling stuck. No matter where you are on your journey, I see you as the expert on your own life, even if it might not feel that way right now.
(360) 281-6824 View (360) 281-6824
Photo of Christopher Charles Selcer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Christopher Charles Selcer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is an interactive partnership. I am the catalyst for the change that my client has locked inside of their capable mind. My ideal client is anyone who seeks to grow stronger and more confident to face their challenges with me acting as their advocate and watchful guide. An ideal client understands that the purpose of therapy is to empower them to grow past the need for therapy to address their 'presenting problem' - Funny isn't it? If I do my job well, I render myself obsolete. To learn what I am like to work with, please check out my Instagram feed, see username christopherselcer.
Therapy is an interactive partnership. I am the catalyst for the change that my client has locked inside of their capable mind. My ideal client is anyone who seeks to grow stronger and more confident to face their challenges with me acting as their advocate and watchful guide. An ideal client understands that the purpose of therapy is to empower them to grow past the need for therapy to address their 'presenting problem' - Funny isn't it? If I do my job well, I render myself obsolete. To learn what I am like to work with, please check out my Instagram feed, see username christopherselcer.
(360) 858-8316 View (360) 858-8316
Photo of Scott Groseclose, MA, LMFT
Scott Groseclose
MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Online Only! I work together with my clients (individuals, couples, and families) to create goals and helps equip them with tools to continue to grow throughout the rest of their lives. I create a safe environment in order for my clients to be able to open up and find healing in all aspects of life. I enjoy working with couples who may be struggling in their relationship because I believe there is no problem large enough that we cannot work through. The same goes for families. The family is a fundamental building block in all of our relationships, through which all other relationships we may have can grow.
Online Only! I work together with my clients (individuals, couples, and families) to create goals and helps equip them with tools to continue to grow throughout the rest of their lives. I create a safe environment in order for my clients to be able to open up and find healing in all aspects of life. I enjoy working with couples who may be struggling in their relationship because I believe there is no problem large enough that we cannot work through. The same goes for families. The family is a fundamental building block in all of our relationships, through which all other relationships we may have can grow.
(360) 281-6824 View (360) 281-6824
1

See more therapy options for 98663

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98663

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 98663 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Self Esteem
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
71% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
64% Regence
56% Premera Blue Cross

How Therapists in 98663 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98663?

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.