Therapists in 99009

Photo of Suzanna Darlene Toews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, CMHS
Suzanna Darlene Toews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, CMHS
Online Only
Thirty four years ago, when I began to practice, I was fascinated by the resiliency of people individually, and their family systems. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, with many different challenges. My approach to therapy is down-to-earth and uncomplicated. Most often I lean heavily into Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Neurofunctional Therapies. I look at challenges from several viewpoints and work with the client to help them identify their strengths within to address their own unique concerns.
Thirty four years ago, when I began to practice, I was fascinated by the resiliency of people individually, and their family systems. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, with many different challenges. My approach to therapy is down-to-earth and uncomplicated. Most often I lean heavily into Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Neurofunctional Therapies. I look at challenges from several viewpoints and work with the client to help them identify their strengths within to address their own unique concerns.
(509) 631-9773 View (509) 631-9773
Photo of Charlotte Myers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Charlotte Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I am a humanistic therapist specializing in Client-Centered Therapy, which focuses on fostering self-discovery, personal growth, and value reorganization through empathetic, non-directive support.
I am a humanistic therapist specializing in Client-Centered Therapy, which focuses on fostering self-discovery, personal growth, and value reorganization through empathetic, non-directive support.
(360) 523-7280 View (360) 523-7280
Photo of Wendy McGourty, Counselor, LMHC
Wendy McGourty
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by past experiences. They want relief from anxiety, trauma, shame, or self-doubt and are seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to understand themselves better. Their goals include building emotional stability, strengthening coping skills, and reclaiming control of their lives. They want to feel grounded, confident, and capable of moving forward with purpose.
My ideal clients are individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by past experiences. They want relief from anxiety, trauma, shame, or self-doubt and are seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to understand themselves better. Their goals include building emotional stability, strengthening coping skills, and reclaiming control of their lives. They want to feel grounded, confident, and capable of moving forward with purpose.
(509) 300-3814 View (509) 300-3814
Photo of Teresa Hodges - Emotional Wellness PLLC, Counselor, LMHC
Emotional Wellness PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I believe everyone should be able to live their best life, and it should not be so hard to do so; people can change, and there is hope! At Emotional Wellness PLLC, I offer individual counseling sessions for individuals ready to embark on a healing journey. I start with an intake appointment to ensure I am the right therapist for you and to lay the groundwork for treatment. I think I can help you by teaching you skills to live your best life, and we continue this process until your symptoms have reduced.
I believe everyone should be able to live their best life, and it should not be so hard to do so; people can change, and there is hope! At Emotional Wellness PLLC, I offer individual counseling sessions for individuals ready to embark on a healing journey. I start with an intake appointment to ensure I am the right therapist for you and to lay the groundwork for treatment. I think I can help you by teaching you skills to live your best life, and we continue this process until your symptoms have reduced.
(509) 204-0687 x1 View (509) 204-0687 x1

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jaime Vosbein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Jaime Vosbein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Spokane, WA 99201
Jaime Vosbein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Washington who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Master of Social Work from Tulane University and a Bachelor of Psychology from the University of New Orleans. Jaime approaches counseling as a whole-person treatment with the goal to help each person reach their full potential. Each person has a unique journey to recovery. In therapy, unique needs for recovery paths will be addressed by leveraging support systems and resources to ensure the ability to make the most of your journey.
Jaime Vosbein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Washington who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Master of Social Work from Tulane University and a Bachelor of Psychology from the University of New Orleans. Jaime approaches counseling as a whole-person treatment with the goal to help each person reach their full potential. Each person has a unique journey to recovery. In therapy, unique needs for recovery paths will be addressed by leveraging support systems and resources to ensure the ability to make the most of your journey.
(509) 285-0778 View (509) 285-0778
Photo of Dr. Victoria Schroder, Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, PMH-C, CFMHE
Dr. Victoria Schroder
Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, PMH-C, CFMHE
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may feel disconnected from your partner, your body, or yourself, unsure how things began to feel this way. Many of the clients I work with feel caught in patterns of conflict, distance, or tension that don’t seem to resolve. You may find yourselves having the same arguments, struggling to communicate, or experiencing a loss of emotional or physical closeness. Others reach out during life transitions, such as infertility, pregnancy, or postpartum, when relationships and identity can feel unexpectedly strained. I specialize in working with relationship challenges, intimacy concerns, and reproductive and perinatal mental health.
You may feel disconnected from your partner, your body, or yourself, unsure how things began to feel this way. Many of the clients I work with feel caught in patterns of conflict, distance, or tension that don’t seem to resolve. You may find yourselves having the same arguments, struggling to communicate, or experiencing a loss of emotional or physical closeness. Others reach out during life transitions, such as infertility, pregnancy, or postpartum, when relationships and identity can feel unexpectedly strained. I specialize in working with relationship challenges, intimacy concerns, and reproductive and perinatal mental health.
(509) 257-8322 View (509) 257-8322
Photo of Christine G Alexanian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Christine G Alexanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204
I am client-centered & appreciate a holistic view of each client (body, mind, spirit). My focus is traditional "talk therapy" with a strengths perspective that allows for clients' insight, and I use wisdom garnered from training in Native American spirituality, a study and practice of yoga, and Christianity. Some of my specialties are: depression, grief & loss, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship and workplace issues, the GLBTQ community, and life transitions. I am a Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist.
I am client-centered & appreciate a holistic view of each client (body, mind, spirit). My focus is traditional "talk therapy" with a strengths perspective that allows for clients' insight, and I use wisdom garnered from training in Native American spirituality, a study and practice of yoga, and Christianity. Some of my specialties are: depression, grief & loss, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship and workplace issues, the GLBTQ community, and life transitions. I am a Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist.
(208) 214-4331 View (208) 214-4331
Photo of Shoshana Beitchman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Shoshana Beitchman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients for daytime sessions! Life can feel overwhelming, uncertain, and scary. It doesn’t come with an instruction manual, and we may feel alone in maneuvering different transitions. We may also realize we have certain belief systems that don’t serve us and choose to re-design our sense of selves. During our time together, my goal would be to create a space where you can let your walls down and leave our sessions feeling fully seen and heard, and empowered to create a life that fits your needs.
Currently accepting new clients for daytime sessions! Life can feel overwhelming, uncertain, and scary. It doesn’t come with an instruction manual, and we may feel alone in maneuvering different transitions. We may also realize we have certain belief systems that don’t serve us and choose to re-design our sense of selves. During our time together, my goal would be to create a space where you can let your walls down and leave our sessions feeling fully seen and heard, and empowered to create a life that fits your needs.
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Photo of Liz Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Liz Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Serves Area
Therapy should be highly adaptable to each individual and not one size fits all. I am focused on supporting adult clients experiencing various mental and behavioral health needs, with a particular fondness for folks hoping to improve their self image, explore coping for anxiety and stress, process developmental trauma, understand relationships and enact desired behavior change. I have a specific passion for supporting "the givers" in our society: parents, helping professionals, activists, etc. My overall hope is to empower you through whatever shifts life brings your way and encourage you on the path that is uniquely your own.
Therapy should be highly adaptable to each individual and not one size fits all. I am focused on supporting adult clients experiencing various mental and behavioral health needs, with a particular fondness for folks hoping to improve their self image, explore coping for anxiety and stress, process developmental trauma, understand relationships and enact desired behavior change. I have a specific passion for supporting "the givers" in our society: parents, helping professionals, activists, etc. My overall hope is to empower you through whatever shifts life brings your way and encourage you on the path that is uniquely your own.
(360) 248-4720 View (360) 248-4720
Photo of Emily Laughlin - Emily Laughlin, Individual Therapy for Women, EMDR, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Emily Laughlin, Individual Therapy for Women, EMDR
Counselor, MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My own experiences with anxiety and trauma made me curious about healing—not just surviving, but actually feeling better. More connected, more alive, more myself. I’m not your average talk therapist. I love swimming in the deep- always with the goal of real, lasting change. I’m not afraid of your big feelings, messy patterns, or the stuff you don’t say out loud. I feel at home sitting with people in their hardest, most honest moments.
My own experiences with anxiety and trauma made me curious about healing—not just surviving, but actually feeling better. More connected, more alive, more myself. I’m not your average talk therapist. I love swimming in the deep- always with the goal of real, lasting change. I’m not afraid of your big feelings, messy patterns, or the stuff you don’t say out loud. I feel at home sitting with people in their hardest, most honest moments.
(509) 800-5490 View (509) 800-5490
Photo of Dr. Allison Carrington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSWAIC
Dr. Allison Carrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSWAIC
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99218
Are you feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure of who you are or what you want? I help people discover their true identities and clarify what matters most so they can live more meaningful, authentic, fulfilling lives. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent- centered, and I’m passionate about creating a safe, respectful, nonjudgmental space where vulnerability, trust, healing, and growth can thrive. I support clients through life transitions, rebuilding self-worth and motivation, deepening relationships, exploring identity, feeling overwhelmed with food and exercise, and struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Are you feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure of who you are or what you want? I help people discover their true identities and clarify what matters most so they can live more meaningful, authentic, fulfilling lives. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent- centered, and I’m passionate about creating a safe, respectful, nonjudgmental space where vulnerability, trust, healing, and growth can thrive. I support clients through life transitions, rebuilding self-worth and motivation, deepening relationships, exploring identity, feeling overwhelmed with food and exercise, and struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(509) 800-5206 View (509) 800-5206
Photo of Sara Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, SUDPT
Sara Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, SUDPT
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99207
As a mental health therapist, I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to understand your unique experiences and perspectives. My goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, respect, and genuine understanding. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care and welcome individuals from all backgrounds. Together, we will explore solutions that honor your values and support your overall well-being.
As a mental health therapist, I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to understand your unique experiences and perspectives. My goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, respect, and genuine understanding. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care and welcome individuals from all backgrounds. Together, we will explore solutions that honor your values and support your overall well-being.
(509) 659-7944 View (509) 659-7944
Photo of Brittany Wheeler, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate , LMHCA
Brittany Wheeler
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate , LMHCA
Spokane, WA 99205
Welcome to the next step in your journey of healing, self-discovery, and self-improvement. You have taken a significant step forward by working towards finding a connection to help address your mental health well-being. Hi, my name is Brittany Wheeler, and I am an LMHCA. I focus on working with older adolescents and adults experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and work/school/life stressors. I also enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ community members who are exploring themselves or experiencing stressors within themselves, relationships, or community.
Welcome to the next step in your journey of healing, self-discovery, and self-improvement. You have taken a significant step forward by working towards finding a connection to help address your mental health well-being. Hi, my name is Brittany Wheeler, and I am an LMHCA. I focus on working with older adolescents and adults experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and work/school/life stressors. I also enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ community members who are exploring themselves or experiencing stressors within themselves, relationships, or community.
(509) 265-6759 View (509) 265-6759
Photo of Jason Engle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Jason Engle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Do you feel that life has gotten so much harder the past few years? Is it difficult for you to slow down and relax? Do you constantly feel pressured to try harder or be perfect? Does your brain constantly replay the most difficult moments of your life? The endless pressure to find our purpose and be good enough can lead to feelings of worry, fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, avoidance and isolation. These feelings can be overwhelming and leave us feeling disconnected from people and activities that matter the most to us. My objective is to support you in slowing down, finding moments of relief and reconnecting with what’s important.
Do you feel that life has gotten so much harder the past few years? Is it difficult for you to slow down and relax? Do you constantly feel pressured to try harder or be perfect? Does your brain constantly replay the most difficult moments of your life? The endless pressure to find our purpose and be good enough can lead to feelings of worry, fear, anxiety, anger, sadness, avoidance and isolation. These feelings can be overwhelming and leave us feeling disconnected from people and activities that matter the most to us. My objective is to support you in slowing down, finding moments of relief and reconnecting with what’s important.
(509) 204-3819 View (509) 204-3819
Photo of Rachel Reid, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rachel Reid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
Will be accepting new clients end of October! Welcome to Brave Ahead Counseling. My name is Rachel and I provide counseling to children, teens, adults and families in the Coeur d’ Alene area. I enjoy working with individuals experiencing a wide ranges of challenges & am particularly passionate about my work with teens and young adults. I use an attachment, interpersonal and strength-based approaches to help you understand yourself and others while working to improve the relationships in our life. I work to empower and encourage you through using a wide range of intentional therapeutic techniques and interventions.
Will be accepting new clients end of October! Welcome to Brave Ahead Counseling. My name is Rachel and I provide counseling to children, teens, adults and families in the Coeur d’ Alene area. I enjoy working with individuals experiencing a wide ranges of challenges & am particularly passionate about my work with teens and young adults. I use an attachment, interpersonal and strength-based approaches to help you understand yourself and others while working to improve the relationships in our life. I work to empower and encourage you through using a wide range of intentional therapeutic techniques and interventions.
(208) 203-7814 View (208) 203-7814
Photo of Renata Atwood Soares, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, L, M, H, C, A
Renata Atwood Soares
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, L, M, H, C, A
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
When we feel disconnected and overwhelmed, life can leave us feeling broken, damaged, and disconnected from our true selves. You may be fed up with feeling triggered in everyday situations, isolated from friends who can’t understand, or guilty over what happened to you. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your past getting in the way. You’re ready to wake up each morning with purpose. Most of all, you’re prepared to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of hope.
When we feel disconnected and overwhelmed, life can leave us feeling broken, damaged, and disconnected from our true selves. You may be fed up with feeling triggered in everyday situations, isolated from friends who can’t understand, or guilty over what happened to you. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your past getting in the way. You’re ready to wake up each morning with purpose. Most of all, you’re prepared to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of hope.
View
Photo of Emily Steele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Emily Steele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
The journey to becoming a parent can be full of challenging feelings, thoughts and transitions. I am a certified perinatal mental health specialist and certified attachment-focused therapist with fifteen years of experience working with families. I believe that the transition into parenthood is often one of the most challenging and transformative periods in life and am passionate about supporting people in this transition. My approach to therapy is a collaborative process with you, pulling from various therapeutic approaches together we will tailor therapy to what will work best for you.
The journey to becoming a parent can be full of challenging feelings, thoughts and transitions. I am a certified perinatal mental health specialist and certified attachment-focused therapist with fifteen years of experience working with families. I believe that the transition into parenthood is often one of the most challenging and transformative periods in life and am passionate about supporting people in this transition. My approach to therapy is a collaborative process with you, pulling from various therapeutic approaches together we will tailor therapy to what will work best for you.
(509) 796-0706 View (509) 796-0706
Photo of Jesse Richner, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Jesse Richner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
9 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
I believe therapy is a deeply humanizing experience. Being truly heard and validated in your pain, uncertainty, and inner world is part of the healing process. My approach to therapy reflects this philosophy, and my work is guided by the belief that people grow through authentic, attuned connection. In my experience, unconditional positive regard, empathy, collaboration, and congruence are essential for meaningful change. I view therapy as an intentional, insight-based process that unfolds at your pace and deepens as trust is built.
I believe therapy is a deeply humanizing experience. Being truly heard and validated in your pain, uncertainty, and inner world is part of the healing process. My approach to therapy reflects this philosophy, and my work is guided by the belief that people grow through authentic, attuned connection. In my experience, unconditional positive regard, empathy, collaboration, and congruence are essential for meaningful change. I view therapy as an intentional, insight-based process that unfolds at your pace and deepens as trust is built.
(509) 581-6603 View (509) 581-6603
Photo of Claire Roman, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Claire Roman
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
I am passionate about relational and trauma healing and hold a trauma-informed, attachment- centered lens when working with individuals or families. In therapy, I aim to help clients identify, understand, and heal emotional wounds. As I get to know you and your needs more, I integrate techniques from several counseling theories to best support your therapeutic goals. My therapeutic approaches pull from CBT, EFT, IFS techniques, play therapy and attachment theory. I have specialized experience working with children and families in the foster and adoption system.
I am passionate about relational and trauma healing and hold a trauma-informed, attachment- centered lens when working with individuals or families. In therapy, I aim to help clients identify, understand, and heal emotional wounds. As I get to know you and your needs more, I integrate techniques from several counseling theories to best support your therapeutic goals. My therapeutic approaches pull from CBT, EFT, IFS techniques, play therapy and attachment theory. I have specialized experience working with children and families in the foster and adoption system.
(509) 287-4559 x6 View (509) 287-4559 x6
Photo of Paige Erickson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paige Erickson
Pre-Licensed Professional
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
Hello, I'm Paige. I’m truly glad you’re here. As humans, we all experience moments when life feels heavy—whether it’s the weight of the world, old patterns that keep resurfacing, or uncertainty about what comes next. Sometimes it can feel as though your cup is running low. My role is to help you rebuild hope by offering a safe, supportive space where you can show up exactly as you are. Whether you’re seeking individual, couples, or family counseling, my goal is to ensure you feel heard, understood, and supported as you navigate life’s journey.
Hello, I'm Paige. I’m truly glad you’re here. As humans, we all experience moments when life feels heavy—whether it’s the weight of the world, old patterns that keep resurfacing, or uncertainty about what comes next. Sometimes it can feel as though your cup is running low. My role is to help you rebuild hope by offering a safe, supportive space where you can show up exactly as you are. Whether you’re seeking individual, couples, or family counseling, my goal is to ensure you feel heard, understood, and supported as you navigate life’s journey.
(509) 631-9159 View (509) 631-9159

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 99009

< 10

Therapists in 99009 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
75% Behavioral Issues
50% Chronic Pain
50% Grief
50% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Regence
75% Aetna

How Therapists in 99009 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 99009?

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.