Therapists in San Antonio, TX

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Photo of Jacqueline P Parsons, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Jacqueline P Parsons
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
(210) 881-7907 View (210) 881-7907
Photo of April McElhenny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
April McElhenny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78245  (Online Only)
No matter what you do, nothing has worked thus far. You still get frustrated by the same people and situations, and your relationships suffer as a result. You might even engage in self-sabotaging behaviors, and juggling all of it feels impossible. You know your parenting could be better, and you are not sure how or why you react in the ways you do. You may ask yourself “Why am I this way?” The answer often lies in early trauma. A chaotic upbringing, abuse, and not feeling seen as children can often result in emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that do not reflect our true selves.
No matter what you do, nothing has worked thus far. You still get frustrated by the same people and situations, and your relationships suffer as a result. You might even engage in self-sabotaging behaviors, and juggling all of it feels impossible. You know your parenting could be better, and you are not sure how or why you react in the ways you do. You may ask yourself “Why am I this way?” The answer often lies in early trauma. A chaotic upbringing, abuse, and not feeling seen as children can often result in emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that do not reflect our true selves.
(210) 952-5114 View (210) 952-5114
Photo of Tiffany Frias, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Tiffany Frias
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78247
Let's be honest for a minute - you are currently reading this because there is something in your life that is causing you pain. That "something" may be a major life transition; such as a divorce, the growing pains of new parenthood, or a major career change. Maybe its some sort of repeating pattern you experience in relationships. It could be that the sheer weight of our current world feels heavy each day. Depression, anxiety, and grief are other common pain points; perhaps you are struggling with one of these.
Let's be honest for a minute - you are currently reading this because there is something in your life that is causing you pain. That "something" may be a major life transition; such as a divorce, the growing pains of new parenthood, or a major career change. Maybe its some sort of repeating pattern you experience in relationships. It could be that the sheer weight of our current world feels heavy each day. Depression, anxiety, and grief are other common pain points; perhaps you are struggling with one of these.
(210) 774-6627 View (210) 774-6627
Photo of Chriselda Santos, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Chriselda Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S , CCP, GCT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78240
Resilience. Connection. Perspective. I believe in focusing on one's strengths and capabilities and assisting a person by building on those factors. With so many demands placed on our lives, relationships may sometimes suffer. While we make plans and schedule ourselves to accommodate life, at times we make assumptions based on past experience. Are you living the life you want to be living? Do you know who you are and what brings you joy? Are your relationships all you want them to be? If the answer is yes, congratulations. If it's no, then maybe I can help. Summer availability
Resilience. Connection. Perspective. I believe in focusing on one's strengths and capabilities and assisting a person by building on those factors. With so many demands placed on our lives, relationships may sometimes suffer. While we make plans and schedule ourselves to accommodate life, at times we make assumptions based on past experience. Are you living the life you want to be living? Do you know who you are and what brings you joy? Are your relationships all you want them to be? If the answer is yes, congratulations. If it's no, then maybe I can help. Summer availability
(210) 549-6663 View (210) 549-6663
Photo of Jeanenne McCloskey, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Jeanenne McCloskey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
J. R. R. Tolkien once wrote in a letter to a friend, "No man can estimate what is really happening at present. All we do know, and that to a large extent by direct experience, is that evil labours with vast power and perpetual success - in vain: preparing always only the soil for unexpected good to sprout in." Most of us readily identify with the first part of that statement but may not be so sure about the second part. We hope for truth, beauty, and goodness and because of that hope we suffer. How do we live with integrity and freedom in the midst of suffering?
J. R. R. Tolkien once wrote in a letter to a friend, "No man can estimate what is really happening at present. All we do know, and that to a large extent by direct experience, is that evil labours with vast power and perpetual success - in vain: preparing always only the soil for unexpected good to sprout in." Most of us readily identify with the first part of that statement but may not be so sure about the second part. We hope for truth, beauty, and goodness and because of that hope we suffer. How do we live with integrity and freedom in the midst of suffering?
(210) 692-9992 View (210) 692-9992
Photo of Jacob Pickard, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Jacob Pickard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78210
I strive to provide you with the tools to build and maintain a more fulfilling life. Each person has unique needs and goals in their therapy. I will not just passively listen, but will engage you, share my thoughts, and challenge you when appropriate. I strive to provide my clients an atmosphere of flexibility, acceptance, compassion, and humor. For 15 years I have successfully helped clients navigate life issues. Many people come to me feeling overwhelmed or lacking meaning in their life, while others are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma/PTSD, relationship or gender issues.
I strive to provide you with the tools to build and maintain a more fulfilling life. Each person has unique needs and goals in their therapy. I will not just passively listen, but will engage you, share my thoughts, and challenge you when appropriate. I strive to provide my clients an atmosphere of flexibility, acceptance, compassion, and humor. For 15 years I have successfully helped clients navigate life issues. Many people come to me feeling overwhelmed or lacking meaning in their life, while others are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma/PTSD, relationship or gender issues.
(210) 526-0456 View (210) 526-0456
Photo of Jan Braun, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Jan Braun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Are you feeling stuck and anxious? Need some extra support to get through a transition? Perhaps you've had a difficult experience you need help to overcome? My first objective is to offer you a safe, supportive space in which you can feel free to explore, grow and heal. By honoring your direct experience we can begin to alter the habitual reactions, limitations, and outdated stories that may prevent you from feeling the full richness of life. Engaging your moment to moment experience may help you to develop a deeper appreciation of who you are and move you toward a more vibrant life.
Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Are you feeling stuck and anxious? Need some extra support to get through a transition? Perhaps you've had a difficult experience you need help to overcome? My first objective is to offer you a safe, supportive space in which you can feel free to explore, grow and heal. By honoring your direct experience we can begin to alter the habitual reactions, limitations, and outdated stories that may prevent you from feeling the full richness of life. Engaging your moment to moment experience may help you to develop a deeper appreciation of who you are and move you toward a more vibrant life.
(210) 741-9546 View (210) 741-9546
Photo of Shay-Lyn Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Shay-Lyn Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults with trauma histories, neurodivergence, and addictions but enjoy helping clients work through the wide variety of challenges we are daily presented with. I see clients individually, as couples and families, and in group settings. I am gender-affirming, LGTBQIA2S+ allied, and sex-/kink-positive. I am also a huge nerd and love integrating all the things you love into therapy. I see therapy as a place where you can feel safe being you and can learn to love yourself and live fully embodying all that makes you you.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults with trauma histories, neurodivergence, and addictions but enjoy helping clients work through the wide variety of challenges we are daily presented with. I see clients individually, as couples and families, and in group settings. I am gender-affirming, LGTBQIA2S+ allied, and sex-/kink-positive. I am also a huge nerd and love integrating all the things you love into therapy. I see therapy as a place where you can feel safe being you and can learn to love yourself and live fully embodying all that makes you you.
(210) 361-3483 View (210) 361-3483
Photo of Texas Center for Sport Psychology, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Texas Center for Sport Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
Highest qualifications and total preparedness equals confidence and results. I was a varsity three sport high school athlete: volleyball, basketball, and softball and an academic and athletic All-American softball player in college and beyond. I received my doctorate in 2002 (age 28) and have been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I am the only licensed clinical sport psychologist in San Antonio who is certified by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. My clinical and sport psychology extensive training gives me the credibility to work with total athlete needs, not just sport performance.
Highest qualifications and total preparedness equals confidence and results. I was a varsity three sport high school athlete: volleyball, basketball, and softball and an academic and athletic All-American softball player in college and beyond. I received my doctorate in 2002 (age 28) and have been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I am the only licensed clinical sport psychologist in San Antonio who is certified by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. My clinical and sport psychology extensive training gives me the credibility to work with total athlete needs, not just sport performance.
(210) 418-2293 View (210) 418-2293
Photo of Marcia Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Marcia Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
I have been a counselor for 10 years and a clinical therapist for 2 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals and couples. I take a personalized approach to all my clients to ensure a safe, informative, and healing space for growth. My personality is transparent, welcoming, and bubbly.
I have been a counselor for 10 years and a clinical therapist for 2 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals and couples. I take a personalized approach to all my clients to ensure a safe, informative, and healing space for growth. My personality is transparent, welcoming, and bubbly.
(469) 789-7842 View (469) 789-7842
Photo of Kimberly Watts Hoggatt, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Kimberly Watts Hoggatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Are you a weary weirdo? Are you a high-achieving adult or teen who struggles with relationships, self-esteem, or burnout? Are you someone who is seeking answers to difficult questions? Do you appreciate a warm and friendly but direct approach when handling challenges? If so, I may be the counselor for you. I take a person-centered and existential approach to counseling - aspiring to help clients find meaning and direction in their lives and relationships. With 15 years of experience in career development and higher education, I have significant expertise in assisting adolescents and adults with college and career decision-making.
Are you a weary weirdo? Are you a high-achieving adult or teen who struggles with relationships, self-esteem, or burnout? Are you someone who is seeking answers to difficult questions? Do you appreciate a warm and friendly but direct approach when handling challenges? If so, I may be the counselor for you. I take a person-centered and existential approach to counseling - aspiring to help clients find meaning and direction in their lives and relationships. With 15 years of experience in career development and higher education, I have significant expertise in assisting adolescents and adults with college and career decision-making.
(210) 598-5013 View (210) 598-5013
Photo of Sharon Benner, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Sharon Benner
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Hi there, I'm Sharon! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that others (or other things) run your life? I work with Individuals, couples, and families to help unblock the path to being happy or joyful again.
Hi there, I'm Sharon! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that others (or other things) run your life? I work with Individuals, couples, and families to help unblock the path to being happy or joyful again.
(210) 796-5079 View (210) 796-5079
Photo of Hannah Morales, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Hannah Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201
Following a traumatic experience, most of us are encouraged - through the world or those we trust - to toughen up and move on. However, despite our best efforts, the effects of this experience leak out at the most inopportune times. For some, this might look like sabotaging yourself or your relationships, using a substance in order to remain numb, or becoming so plagued with reminders of this experience you feel that you cannot think of anything else. In addition, you might have a set of feelings or symptoms that seem to be connected but you have difficulty naming. When you try to discuss these with loved ones, you are dismissed.
Following a traumatic experience, most of us are encouraged - through the world or those we trust - to toughen up and move on. However, despite our best efforts, the effects of this experience leak out at the most inopportune times. For some, this might look like sabotaging yourself or your relationships, using a substance in order to remain numb, or becoming so plagued with reminders of this experience you feel that you cannot think of anything else. In addition, you might have a set of feelings or symptoms that seem to be connected but you have difficulty naming. When you try to discuss these with loved ones, you are dismissed.
(210) 934-9918 View (210) 934-9918
Photo of Let's Talk Counseling Services , Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Let's Talk Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, TF- CBT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Life is challenging - there are so many issues/events which could cause a form of emotional disturbances - once this happens, I would like to be there to assist you regain emotional wellness and re-find your since of self and balance. Call me for an appointment so we can begin the healing process.
Life is challenging - there are so many issues/events which could cause a form of emotional disturbances - once this happens, I would like to be there to assist you regain emotional wellness and re-find your since of self and balance. Call me for an appointment so we can begin the healing process.
(210) 934-9298 View (210) 934-9298
Photo of Brenda Martinez Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Brenda Martinez Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LSOTP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
I have always been interested in the effects of trauma on one's life. Trauma has many effects that most don't consider. I have learned how to assist people in creating a loved life in spite of any trauma they have experienced.
I have always been interested in the effects of trauma on one's life. Trauma has many effects that most don't consider. I have learned how to assist people in creating a loved life in spite of any trauma they have experienced.
(210) 585-2616 View (210) 585-2616
Photo of Abby Hasberry, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Antonio, TX
Abby Hasberry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
After years in education as a college professor, teacher, and principal, my joy is working with older adolescents and young adults. My ideal client is reflective and purposeful. My clients are typically young adults transitioning to careers and learning to “adult”, adoptees discovering their identities and processing trauma, and birth/first mothers navigating grief and loss. I support my clients through reflection, trauma processing, self-discovery, and identity development so that they can embrace mental clarity live purposefully.
After years in education as a college professor, teacher, and principal, my joy is working with older adolescents and young adults. My ideal client is reflective and purposeful. My clients are typically young adults transitioning to careers and learning to “adult”, adoptees discovering their identities and processing trauma, and birth/first mothers navigating grief and loss. I support my clients through reflection, trauma processing, self-discovery, and identity development so that they can embrace mental clarity live purposefully.
(210) 871-9834 View (210) 871-9834
Photo of Melissa Ortiz, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Melissa Ortiz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78211
As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, my passion lies in guiding individuals on transformative journeys of self-discovery and growth. Throughout my career I have cultivated a deep understanding of the human psyche, the power of resilience, and the profound impact of generational healing. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their challenges, and embark on the path to personal transformation. I firmly believe in holistic healing that acknowledges the mind, body & spirit.
As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, my passion lies in guiding individuals on transformative journeys of self-discovery and growth. Throughout my career I have cultivated a deep understanding of the human psyche, the power of resilience, and the profound impact of generational healing. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their challenges, and embark on the path to personal transformation. I firmly believe in holistic healing that acknowledges the mind, body & spirit.
(210) 791-7212 View (210) 791-7212
Photo of Monica A Garfias, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Monica A Garfias
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Not accepting new clients
Hola! I'm a bilingual therapist who works with tweens, teens and adults. Sometimes we go through periods in our lives where life feels unfair, and we get stuck in that downward spiral just waiting for the next thing to go wrong. These stressful periods in our lives cause changes in our mood and behavior. This may look like not being able to focus or complete tasks, becoming easily irritable or angry, feeling overwhelmed, worrying about even worse things happening. Do you want to gain control back of your life and be able to enjoy yourself? Or even just become a better version of yourself?
Hola! I'm a bilingual therapist who works with tweens, teens and adults. Sometimes we go through periods in our lives where life feels unfair, and we get stuck in that downward spiral just waiting for the next thing to go wrong. These stressful periods in our lives cause changes in our mood and behavior. This may look like not being able to focus or complete tasks, becoming easily irritable or angry, feeling overwhelmed, worrying about even worse things happening. Do you want to gain control back of your life and be able to enjoy yourself? Or even just become a better version of yourself?
(210) 625-7691 View (210) 625-7691
Photo of Leonel Longoria, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Leonel Longoria
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
I have worked in various settings, across all platforms and populations and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addictions (alcohol, drugs, and sexual), OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and/or sexual trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I
I have worked in various settings, across all platforms and populations and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addictions (alcohol, drugs, and sexual), OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and/or sexual trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I
(210) 750-3252 View (210) 750-3252
Photo of Arsahy Alvizo, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Arsahy Alvizo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
Arsy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas (81619). She graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling. She provides a warm and welcoming environment in order for you to feel safe and open throughout the counseling process. She will work alongside you to navigate the presenting issues and find solutions that are authentic to you. Arsy employs a person-centered and CBT approach that focuses on helping the client identify and change thinking patterns that have a negative influence on their behavior and their emotional being.
Arsy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas (81619). She graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling. She provides a warm and welcoming environment in order for you to feel safe and open throughout the counseling process. She will work alongside you to navigate the presenting issues and find solutions that are authentic to you. Arsy employs a person-centered and CBT approach that focuses on helping the client identify and change thinking patterns that have a negative influence on their behavior and their emotional being.
(210) 791-6239 View (210) 791-6239

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Antonio, TX

2,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
73% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
70% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Antonio, TX see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Antonio?

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.