Therapists in 99208

Photo of Lisa Estelle, Psychologist, PsyD
Lisa Estelle
Psychologist, PsyD
Spokane, WA 99208
With over 30 years of experience in providing mental health services, my approach integrates varied perspectives in supporting people in finding relief from emotional and relational pain. Symptoms are often expressing deeper experiences that have wounded your sense of trust in yourself, in others, in life in general, and may have left you struggling with knowing your own sense of meaning, purpose, and hope. You deserve an authentic, compassionate, safe, and hopeful place to reflect, and to seek help and healing. I am committed to providing effective, genuine, and meaningful help primarily to adults.
With over 30 years of experience in providing mental health services, my approach integrates varied perspectives in supporting people in finding relief from emotional and relational pain. Symptoms are often expressing deeper experiences that have wounded your sense of trust in yourself, in others, in life in general, and may have left you struggling with knowing your own sense of meaning, purpose, and hope. You deserve an authentic, compassionate, safe, and hopeful place to reflect, and to seek help and healing. I am committed to providing effective, genuine, and meaningful help primarily to adults.
(509) 774-3980 View (509) 774-3980
Photo of Amber Glyn Dunham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Amber Glyn Dunham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Spokane, WA 99208
I am grateful and privileged to be a part of the healing journey for others. I am client-centered in my approach, and work from a strengths-based perspective with the belief that everyone has strengths to build on. I tailor various interventions and skill-based methods to each individual client, which I believe is best practice. I also believe strongly in mind/ body approaches for treatment such as mindfulness, sensory-based strategies and somatic practices to help integrate our experiences. I am trained in EMDR by an EMDRIA-approved trainer for treatment of trauma, anxiety, grief, and loss as well as a range of other issues.
I am grateful and privileged to be a part of the healing journey for others. I am client-centered in my approach, and work from a strengths-based perspective with the belief that everyone has strengths to build on. I tailor various interventions and skill-based methods to each individual client, which I believe is best practice. I also believe strongly in mind/ body approaches for treatment such as mindfulness, sensory-based strategies and somatic practices to help integrate our experiences. I am trained in EMDR by an EMDRIA-approved trainer for treatment of trauma, anxiety, grief, and loss as well as a range of other issues.
(509) 410-4201 View (509) 410-4201
Photo of Brittany Ewry, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Brittany Ewry
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Spokane, WA 99208
I'm currently accepting new clients with immediate availability! Are you struggling with the transition to motherhood, finding balance in relationships, or coping with a major life change like divorce, a move, or a new job? In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and alone. You don’t have to do it by yourself. Together, we’ll work to help you feel grounded, supported, and empowered to create the meaningful life you want. Transformation is possible—and it starts here.
I'm currently accepting new clients with immediate availability! Are you struggling with the transition to motherhood, finding balance in relationships, or coping with a major life change like divorce, a move, or a new job? In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and alone. You don’t have to do it by yourself. Together, we’ll work to help you feel grounded, supported, and empowered to create the meaningful life you want. Transformation is possible—and it starts here.
(509) 722-2645 View (509) 722-2645
Photo of Peter D Endyke, Psychologist, PsyD
Peter D Endyke
Psychologist, PsyD
Spokane, WA 99208
Hello! Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed Doctor of Clinical Psychology with over 28 years experience. I treat adults with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and couples/relationship problems. I also specialize in treating adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. I offer Christian Counseling and consider it a calling and ministry. I accept most forms of insurance. YOU are my number one priority! I am committed to offering you as my client the highest quality therapy available. Don't hesitate to call!
Hello! Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed Doctor of Clinical Psychology with over 28 years experience. I treat adults with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and couples/relationship problems. I also specialize in treating adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. I offer Christian Counseling and consider it a calling and ministry. I accept most forms of insurance. YOU are my number one priority! I am committed to offering you as my client the highest quality therapy available. Don't hesitate to call!
(509) 740-3677 View (509) 740-3677
Photo of Morgan Colburn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Morgan Colburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Are you feeling lost, disconnected from your life, or overwhelmed? You are not alone and therapy can be a place that we can explore what is holding us back, and work together to find a path towards the life we want to live. For the past 12 years I have worked with victims of violence, helping them work through past traumatic memories and rebuild their vision for the future. In addition to trauma work, I draw from the principles of Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size (HAES) to help those who want to build a more compassionate and balanced relationship with food and their body.
Are you feeling lost, disconnected from your life, or overwhelmed? You are not alone and therapy can be a place that we can explore what is holding us back, and work together to find a path towards the life we want to live. For the past 12 years I have worked with victims of violence, helping them work through past traumatic memories and rebuild their vision for the future. In addition to trauma work, I draw from the principles of Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size (HAES) to help those who want to build a more compassionate and balanced relationship with food and their body.
(509) 479-3288 View (509) 479-3288
Photo of Alita Crosby, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Alita Crosby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
If you have a desire to make changes, but aren't sure where to start or don’t feel like you can do it alone, therapy can help! Stressors like communication issues or strife with your partner or family, anxiety or conflict at work or church, and past abuse or other traumatic experiences can all weaken the body's ability to be as effective through life. Having an intentional time each week to focus on yourself and your connections and stressors is what therapy can offer. It's a time to pause, reflect, and dive deeper into what's weighing you down and shore up what matters most to you.
If you have a desire to make changes, but aren't sure where to start or don’t feel like you can do it alone, therapy can help! Stressors like communication issues or strife with your partner or family, anxiety or conflict at work or church, and past abuse or other traumatic experiences can all weaken the body's ability to be as effective through life. Having an intentional time each week to focus on yourself and your connections and stressors is what therapy can offer. It's a time to pause, reflect, and dive deeper into what's weighing you down and shore up what matters most to you.
(509) 312-4617 View (509) 312-4617
Photo of Christine Martinz - Christian Counseling Spokane Christine Martinz, Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Christian Counseling Spokane Christine Martinz
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
With 25 years of experience, I offer Christ-centered counseling to help adults 18 years and older, navigate life’s challenges with compassion and wisdom. As the founder of Christian Counseling Spokane in 2011, I specialize in blending biblical principles with proven therapeutic techniques to support emotional healing, personal growth, and stronger relationships. Whether you’re seeking counseling or life coaching, I create a safe, nurturing space where we can work together to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals through the hope and strength found in Jesus. Visit my website for more detailed information.
With 25 years of experience, I offer Christ-centered counseling to help adults 18 years and older, navigate life’s challenges with compassion and wisdom. As the founder of Christian Counseling Spokane in 2011, I specialize in blending biblical principles with proven therapeutic techniques to support emotional healing, personal growth, and stronger relationships. Whether you’re seeking counseling or life coaching, I create a safe, nurturing space where we can work together to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals through the hope and strength found in Jesus. Visit my website for more detailed information.
(509) 584-4920 View (509) 584-4920
Photo of Sierra Ramos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sierra Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Therapy is hard work and I am here to help you show up to yourself in a new and different way, change is possible. I support teens and adults navigating depression, anxiety, or relationship difficulties who are looking for relief from the weight of their struggles, greater clarity in their lives, and tools to help them feel more balanced, confident, and connected. I also work with Clinicians in training who are seeking guidance and encouragement. As a Clinical Supervisor, I aim to support growth, help navigate challenges, and celebrate success as you build confidence in your professional journey.
Therapy is hard work and I am here to help you show up to yourself in a new and different way, change is possible. I support teens and adults navigating depression, anxiety, or relationship difficulties who are looking for relief from the weight of their struggles, greater clarity in their lives, and tools to help them feel more balanced, confident, and connected. I also work with Clinicians in training who are seeking guidance and encouragement. As a Clinical Supervisor, I aim to support growth, help navigate challenges, and celebrate success as you build confidence in your professional journey.
(509) 285-9460 View (509) 285-9460
Photo of Elizabeth Campbell - Family Essentials Counseling North, Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, LICSW
Family Essentials Counseling North
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
At Family Essentials Counseling we work with you to select the right counselor for you and your needs. On our website you'll find detailed information on providers available.
At Family Essentials Counseling we work with you to select the right counselor for you and your needs. On our website you'll find detailed information on providers available.
(509) 253-1984 View (509) 253-1984
Photo of Vanessa Lee Richardson, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Vanessa Lee Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Hi and welcome! My name is Vanessa Richardson, I am a therapist who brings compassion and sincerity to the therapeutic process. To reach me it is best to text the office line and someone will get back to you ASAP. My professional background includes working with couples, individuals, families, special education population, extensive experience in working with families building upon their natural support along with individuals and couples from all different walks of life. I gained my experience in the clinical field working in a high-school setting, and community mental health outreach program.
Hi and welcome! My name is Vanessa Richardson, I am a therapist who brings compassion and sincerity to the therapeutic process. To reach me it is best to text the office line and someone will get back to you ASAP. My professional background includes working with couples, individuals, families, special education population, extensive experience in working with families building upon their natural support along with individuals and couples from all different walks of life. I gained my experience in the clinical field working in a high-school setting, and community mental health outreach program.
(509) 790-3852 View (509) 790-3852
Photo of Megan McCarty, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Megan McCarty
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Spokane, WA 99208
Now accepting new individual and couple clients! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist associate trained in models of therapy that soothe our nervous system, teach us to better regulate our emotions, and feel more secure in ourselves and in our relationships. I focus on working with those who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, coping with relational challenges, or feeling stuck in one or many areas of their life. I have openings for individuals and couples who are seeking hope, growth, and healing. Let's connect.
Now accepting new individual and couple clients! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist associate trained in models of therapy that soothe our nervous system, teach us to better regulate our emotions, and feel more secure in ourselves and in our relationships. I focus on working with those who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, coping with relational challenges, or feeling stuck in one or many areas of their life. I have openings for individuals and couples who are seeking hope, growth, and healing. Let's connect.
(509) 846-7306 View (509) 846-7306
Photo of Lyndsey Klein, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lyndsey Klein
Pre-Licensed Professional
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Hello, I’m Lyndsey Klein and I am a graduate student at Gonzaga University working towards my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My passion lies in helping clients build healthier relationships, deepen self-understanding, and create lives that feel authentic and fulfilling. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to sit with you through it. Being a human can be challenging, and sometimes we all need an extra hand or even a life jacket to stay afloat. My goal is to help you not just survive but thrive, creating the life you envision for yourself.
Hello, I’m Lyndsey Klein and I am a graduate student at Gonzaga University working towards my Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My passion lies in helping clients build healthier relationships, deepen self-understanding, and create lives that feel authentic and fulfilling. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to sit with you through it. Being a human can be challenging, and sometimes we all need an extra hand or even a life jacket to stay afloat. My goal is to help you not just survive but thrive, creating the life you envision for yourself.
(509) 210-6793 View (509) 210-6793
Photo of Amber Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Amber Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Spokane, WA 99208
Do you find yourself struggling in important relationships? Are you stuck in unwanted push-and-pull patterns with your partner or closest friends? Relationships are central to life, yet they can feel painful and confusing. Attachment strategies influence how we see ourselves and others and can impact most areas of life. The paradox of attachment trauma is that relational wounds create a profound longing for connection, but intimacy feels perplexing and risky. It is hard to think and act optimally when one’s intrinsic desires for belonging, safety, and love are unmet.
Do you find yourself struggling in important relationships? Are you stuck in unwanted push-and-pull patterns with your partner or closest friends? Relationships are central to life, yet they can feel painful and confusing. Attachment strategies influence how we see ourselves and others and can impact most areas of life. The paradox of attachment trauma is that relational wounds create a profound longing for connection, but intimacy feels perplexing and risky. It is hard to think and act optimally when one’s intrinsic desires for belonging, safety, and love are unmet.
(509) 516-2142 View (509) 516-2142
Photo of Blaine P. Bart, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Blaine P. Bart
Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
I enjoy working with people. The process of meeting others where they’re at in support of a collaborative effort to create positive change is the meaning of my work. My evidence-based training lies primarily in CBT, ACT, and DBT-Mindfulness. Beyond the evidence-based models I incorporate their philosophical underpinnings within existentialism, stoicism, and eastern philosophies. I have deep love, respect and compassion for the human condition. I am a father, husband, Veteran, clinician and human being. My personal philosophy involves an approach of education, meditation and application. Like others, I'm a "work in progress."
I enjoy working with people. The process of meeting others where they’re at in support of a collaborative effort to create positive change is the meaning of my work. My evidence-based training lies primarily in CBT, ACT, and DBT-Mindfulness. Beyond the evidence-based models I incorporate their philosophical underpinnings within existentialism, stoicism, and eastern philosophies. I have deep love, respect and compassion for the human condition. I am a father, husband, Veteran, clinician and human being. My personal philosophy involves an approach of education, meditation and application. Like others, I'm a "work in progress."
(509) 775-6616 View (509) 775-6616
Photo of Janelle R Engle, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Janelle R Engle
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Counseling can be an adventure in self-discovery, a place to clarify your thoughts and get a fresh perspective about your life. I will help you develop insight into yourself, your life, your relationships and, also, if desired, help you identify specific changes that will bring you a higher quality of life. The better you know yourself, the easier it is to know what you want in life. Finding your own voice and having the confidence to express it is one of the foundational pieces in developing a rich experience in life, and an essential tool in relating to others.
Counseling can be an adventure in self-discovery, a place to clarify your thoughts and get a fresh perspective about your life. I will help you develop insight into yourself, your life, your relationships and, also, if desired, help you identify specific changes that will bring you a higher quality of life. The better you know yourself, the easier it is to know what you want in life. Finding your own voice and having the confidence to express it is one of the foundational pieces in developing a rich experience in life, and an essential tool in relating to others.
(509) 350-4544 View (509) 350-4544
Photo of Sean P O'Brien - Selkirks And Palouse Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Selkirks And Palouse Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Spokane, WA 99208
My values of compassion, curiosity, and openness allow me to join with clients to build healthier relationships with themselves, increased commitment to what they value, and in acting intentionally in doing their best.
My values of compassion, curiosity, and openness allow me to join with clients to build healthier relationships with themselves, increased commitment to what they value, and in acting intentionally in doing their best.
(509) 587-1734 View (509) 587-1734
Photo of Marilyn L Sears, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Marilyn L Sears
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Hello, my name is Marilyn Sears. You may be looking to discover new strategies for coping and succeeding in your life's challenges. If so, I would like to work with you to discuss issues that are important to you. My areas of specialization include working with relationship issues, couples therapy, grief/loss, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. I may ask questions, clarify feelings, offer reassurance, interpret, and identify themes. Many people feel strengthened and supported in the process of counseling. If you would like to meet with me or have questions, please contact me.
Hello, my name is Marilyn Sears. You may be looking to discover new strategies for coping and succeeding in your life's challenges. If so, I would like to work with you to discuss issues that are important to you. My areas of specialization include working with relationship issues, couples therapy, grief/loss, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. I may ask questions, clarify feelings, offer reassurance, interpret, and identify themes. Many people feel strengthened and supported in the process of counseling. If you would like to meet with me or have questions, please contact me.
(509) 316-0011 View (509) 316-0011
Photo of Holly Stevens, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Holly Stevens
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Spokane, WA 99208
Our lives are influenced and shaped by our experiences and relationships. If you find yourself in a place of stress, anxiety, or depression and feel a lack of balance and peace, therapy may be a place to regain your inner harmony. I work with individuals struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, emotional or domestic violence abuse, past trauma, anxiety, depression, difficult family dynamics, grief and loss, stress management, and various life issues. I am passionate about instilling hope and building self-esteem through relationship to help you grow in positivity and live your best self.
Our lives are influenced and shaped by our experiences and relationships. If you find yourself in a place of stress, anxiety, or depression and feel a lack of balance and peace, therapy may be a place to regain your inner harmony. I work with individuals struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, emotional or domestic violence abuse, past trauma, anxiety, depression, difficult family dynamics, grief and loss, stress management, and various life issues. I am passionate about instilling hope and building self-esteem through relationship to help you grow in positivity and live your best self.
(509) 517-7508 View (509) 517-7508
Photo of Todd William Patrick, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Todd William Patrick
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Spokane, WA 99208
My name is Todd Patrick and I am a Christian counselor who is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor serving in Spokane. I formerly was a counselor at the Genesis Institute in Spokane, Washington between 2014-2022. Thank you for looking at my profile page. I understand that it takes boldness to seek out help, but whether it is depression, anxiety, relationship problems, the loss of someone, a struggling teen, or spiritual issues, this may be the best thing you can do to move forward in your life.
My name is Todd Patrick and I am a Christian counselor who is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor serving in Spokane. I formerly was a counselor at the Genesis Institute in Spokane, Washington between 2014-2022. Thank you for looking at my profile page. I understand that it takes boldness to seek out help, but whether it is depression, anxiety, relationship problems, the loss of someone, a struggling teen, or spiritual issues, this may be the best thing you can do to move forward in your life.
(509) 620-1673 View (509) 620-1673
Photo of Andria Nicolle Hollingshead, Counselor, NCC, LIMHP, SUD, LPC, LADC
Andria Nicolle Hollingshead
Counselor, NCC, LIMHP, SUD, LPC, LADC
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99208
Hello, I am a licensed therapist and substance abuse counselor located in Spokane, providing services for Washington, and telehealth to Nebraska & Idaho; I have been doing therapy with veterans at the Veteran Affairs for 11 years decided it was time to take a step into the private practice sector. I am trained in the top 3 trauma therapies (EMDR, PE and CPT), all of my practice is grounded in somatics, neuroscience and strengths based. I use humor within therapy when appropriate, I believe I learn as much you as you might from me. I have primary experience and formalized supervision in doing trauma, addiction, anxiety therapies.
Hello, I am a licensed therapist and substance abuse counselor located in Spokane, providing services for Washington, and telehealth to Nebraska & Idaho; I have been doing therapy with veterans at the Veteran Affairs for 11 years decided it was time to take a step into the private practice sector. I am trained in the top 3 trauma therapies (EMDR, PE and CPT), all of my practice is grounded in somatics, neuroscience and strengths based. I use humor within therapy when appropriate, I believe I learn as much you as you might from me. I have primary experience and formalized supervision in doing trauma, addiction, anxiety therapies.
(509) 412-3645 View (509) 412-3645

See more therapy options for 99208

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 99208

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 99208 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
84% Depression
81% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Stress
71% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Premera Blue Cross
80% Aetna
78% Regence

How Therapists in 99208 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 99208?

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.