Therapists in Dallas, TX

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Photo of Joyce Kay Hamilton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Joyce Kay Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MLA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
My counseling and therapy practice is designed to cut through that "Clinical Approach". Client reviews verify I am friendly, easy to talk with, and can quickly determine the root cause of the challenges you are encountering, and then formulate an individual plan for your progress. I can teach you how to feel genuinely happy, proud, and fulfilled. Concerned about payment? I operate on a sliding scale and, if you have insurance, I can assist you with those billing issues.
My counseling and therapy practice is designed to cut through that "Clinical Approach". Client reviews verify I am friendly, easy to talk with, and can quickly determine the root cause of the challenges you are encountering, and then formulate an individual plan for your progress. I can teach you how to feel genuinely happy, proud, and fulfilled. Concerned about payment? I operate on a sliding scale and, if you have insurance, I can assist you with those billing issues.
(214) 444-5132 View (214) 444-5132
Photo of Gate Well Counseling, Pastoral Counselor in Dallas, TX
Gate Well Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
You may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or hurt beyond anything you have ever felt before. It is so difficult when you feel boxed in and alone, but there is a power that God has placed within your heart. We will help you access an understanding of that power and reach the absolute freedom that God desires for you.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or hurt beyond anything you have ever felt before. It is so difficult when you feel boxed in and alone, but there is a power that God has placed within your heart. We will help you access an understanding of that power and reach the absolute freedom that God desires for you.
(469) 715-4349 View (469) 715-4349
Photo of Harold D Duncan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Harold D Duncan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
Dr. Duncan has been a psychotherapist in private practice since 1981. For 15 years, he was an Instructor in Psychology at the University of Texas at Dallas. For 10 years, he served as Behavioral Medicine Coordinator for the Baylor Family Practice Residency Program at Garland. He currently is an Adjunct Professor in the Counseling department at Southern Methodist University.
Dr. Duncan has been a psychotherapist in private practice since 1981. For 15 years, he was an Instructor in Psychology at the University of Texas at Dallas. For 10 years, he served as Behavioral Medicine Coordinator for the Baylor Family Practice Residency Program at Garland. He currently is an Adjunct Professor in the Counseling department at Southern Methodist University.
(972) 360-9414 View (972) 360-9414
Photo of Scott M Nelson, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Scott M Nelson, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Problems in love and work, as well as symptoms of depression and anxiety, often lead people to seek therapy. Psychotherapy allows for the safe exploration of painful problems and resolution of conflicts underlying them. As trust develops, individuals explore their inner feelings related to anger, intimacy, and spirituality. Before treatment, these feelings are frequently blocked and unavailable in useful ways. Psychotherapy helps individuals view themselves in new ways. Psychotherapy can be an emotional education resulting in lasting changes. Therapy frequently ends increased personal freedom to make wise choices for oneself in the context of one's community.
Problems in love and work, as well as symptoms of depression and anxiety, often lead people to seek therapy. Psychotherapy allows for the safe exploration of painful problems and resolution of conflicts underlying them. As trust develops, individuals explore their inner feelings related to anger, intimacy, and spirituality. Before treatment, these feelings are frequently blocked and unavailable in useful ways. Psychotherapy helps individuals view themselves in new ways. Psychotherapy can be an emotional education resulting in lasting changes. Therapy frequently ends increased personal freedom to make wise choices for oneself in the context of one's community.
(972) 236-5861 View (972) 236-5861
Photo of Nofar Gal, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Dallas, TX
Nofar Gal
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Most people seek counseling when they experience pain, feeling stuck in their lives and relationships. The patterns that have worked for them in the past are no longer working or a new life event confronts them with the need for change. Life is sometimes messy and complex as we navigate through the challenges of being a parent, having a career, being a caretaker and keeping our marriages thriving. In working with my clients, my goal is to help facilitate curiosity, while taking a holistic approach in identifying beliefs, patterns and behaviors that may be blocking them from achieving their goals.
Most people seek counseling when they experience pain, feeling stuck in their lives and relationships. The patterns that have worked for them in the past are no longer working or a new life event confronts them with the need for change. Life is sometimes messy and complex as we navigate through the challenges of being a parent, having a career, being a caretaker and keeping our marriages thriving. In working with my clients, my goal is to help facilitate curiosity, while taking a holistic approach in identifying beliefs, patterns and behaviors that may be blocking them from achieving their goals.
(469) 617-2216 View (469) 617-2216
Photo of Zuleyka Yamilex Betancourt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Zuleyka Yamilex Betancourt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75238
Hi! I am Zuleyka Betancourt, a clinical social worker, primarily working with teens and young adults. I primarily work with teens and young adults who are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, or life stressors. During our sessions, I hope to give the client a calming, interactive, and judgment-free environment. I utilize an eclectic approach in my practice and accommodate my therapeutic modality to best meet the unique and specify needs of the client.
Hi! I am Zuleyka Betancourt, a clinical social worker, primarily working with teens and young adults. I primarily work with teens and young adults who are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, or life stressors. During our sessions, I hope to give the client a calming, interactive, and judgment-free environment. I utilize an eclectic approach in my practice and accommodate my therapeutic modality to best meet the unique and specify needs of the client.
(469) 273-1471 View (469) 273-1471
Photo of Miki Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Miki Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
The decision to start therapy can be a difficult one. My honest and relatable style provides a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can safely begin to develop insight about the connections between your emotions and behavior and improve the quality of all your relationships. I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, woman and parents. With more than 25 years of experience, some of my specializations include anxiety, depression, grief, parent-teen conflict, teen dating, body image, relationship issues, and life transitions. Call me and we can talk about how you can get your life back on track.
The decision to start therapy can be a difficult one. My honest and relatable style provides a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can safely begin to develop insight about the connections between your emotions and behavior and improve the quality of all your relationships. I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, woman and parents. With more than 25 years of experience, some of my specializations include anxiety, depression, grief, parent-teen conflict, teen dating, body image, relationship issues, and life transitions. Call me and we can talk about how you can get your life back on track.
(469) 273-1146 View (469) 273-1146
Photo of Unpacking Life Through Therapeutic Conversations , Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Unpacking Life Through Therapeutic Conversations
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75232  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Jackie. I am a licensed professional counselor who enjoys working with clients who are unpacking their lives to create healthy boundaries, learn new tools to handle stressors in their lives, work through hurt, and what happened to them. I understand we are living through tough times where decisions need to be made to improve our lives for the betterment of ourselves and our family.
Hello, my name is Jackie. I am a licensed professional counselor who enjoys working with clients who are unpacking their lives to create healthy boundaries, learn new tools to handle stressors in their lives, work through hurt, and what happened to them. I understand we are living through tough times where decisions need to be made to improve our lives for the betterment of ourselves and our family.
(469) 373-7433 View (469) 373-7433
Photo of James H Dolan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
James H Dolan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Now, this very moment, as you look at my profile on your screen, might not seem like the point in time when things can change, but in fact, it is. But your mind is a whirl of questions-can he help? can he understand ME? will I be judged or labeled? How do I know if he really cares, or if its just a job? How will Dolan be different from the last therapist I saw who never seemed to really get me, but pretended to? There is only one way to find the answers- pick up the phone and call, or send an email. I will reply promptly and we'll get to know one another as I share my 40 years of experience doing therapy. I look forward to it.
Now, this very moment, as you look at my profile on your screen, might not seem like the point in time when things can change, but in fact, it is. But your mind is a whirl of questions-can he help? can he understand ME? will I be judged or labeled? How do I know if he really cares, or if its just a job? How will Dolan be different from the last therapist I saw who never seemed to really get me, but pretended to? There is only one way to find the answers- pick up the phone and call, or send an email. I will reply promptly and we'll get to know one another as I share my 40 years of experience doing therapy. I look forward to it.
(469) 416-3142 View (469) 416-3142
Photo of Sophie Grace Stevens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Sophie Grace Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Sometimes, Life can be unpredictable and out of our control. During times of chaos, I aim to help my clients find hope, joy and humor; with a renewed enthusiasm for life. My goal is to create a safe place for you to land and make meaning of the hardships you encounter in those seasons. I believe people are resilient and have the capability for healing and growth, they often just need support uncovering their strength within. I specialize in working with trauma, grief and bereavement, anxiety and depression, life transitions and autism spectrum disorders.
Sometimes, Life can be unpredictable and out of our control. During times of chaos, I aim to help my clients find hope, joy and humor; with a renewed enthusiasm for life. My goal is to create a safe place for you to land and make meaning of the hardships you encounter in those seasons. I believe people are resilient and have the capability for healing and growth, they often just need support uncovering their strength within. I specialize in working with trauma, grief and bereavement, anxiety and depression, life transitions and autism spectrum disorders.
(214) 225-8905 View (214) 225-8905
Photo of Omolola Taiwo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Omolola Taiwo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
Over the past several years, my professional progress focused on helping individuals with depressive symptoms, anxiety related symptoms, poor stress management, life transitions, and more. I also have a multicultural background and understand different languages. Before making Houston my home in 2018, I traveled and lived across the nation, learning from people of diverse cultures. During my long and storied journey over many years in multiple cities, I've cultivated an ability to relate and empathize with people of many various backgrounds.
Over the past several years, my professional progress focused on helping individuals with depressive symptoms, anxiety related symptoms, poor stress management, life transitions, and more. I also have a multicultural background and understand different languages. Before making Houston my home in 2018, I traveled and lived across the nation, learning from people of diverse cultures. During my long and storied journey over many years in multiple cities, I've cultivated an ability to relate and empathize with people of many various backgrounds.
(512) 764-3308 View (512) 764-3308
Photo of Eddie Traughber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Eddie Traughber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75211
My name is Eddie Traughber, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in East Texas but working with clients statewide via telehealth. Through my faith-based approach, I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety, sexual addiction, trauma, and grief counseling, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives.
My name is Eddie Traughber, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in East Texas but working with clients statewide via telehealth. Through my faith-based approach, I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety, sexual addiction, trauma, and grief counseling, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives.
(972) 426-8546 View (972) 426-8546
Photo of Karen Ramirez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Karen Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218
I understand how difficult life can be when your closest relationships are struggling. By looking for help, you have made a great step towards healing and change! I provide individuals and couples with a safe space to share whatever is bothering them in an accepting, empathetic environment. Your therapy should be unique and focused on what you are wanting to change, so I adapt treatment to match those goals. I invest the care and time it takes for you to leave feeling valued, heard, and with an increased confidence in managing your problems.
I understand how difficult life can be when your closest relationships are struggling. By looking for help, you have made a great step towards healing and change! I provide individuals and couples with a safe space to share whatever is bothering them in an accepting, empathetic environment. Your therapy should be unique and focused on what you are wanting to change, so I adapt treatment to match those goals. I invest the care and time it takes for you to leave feeling valued, heard, and with an increased confidence in managing your problems.
(469) 490-1033 View (469) 490-1033
Photo of Daniel Echols, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Daniel Echols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240
Sometimes we need a safe place to tend to our heart, a place to be heard and understood, a place to get help. I am here to provide that place for you. Perhaps you have been feeling anxious or down. Maybe you feel stuck and are needing direction or liberation or resolution in one or more areas of life. With grace and affirmation, I will work closely with you to address what is hindering you and help you move forward. I work from a person-centered approach that is tailored to your needs.
Sometimes we need a safe place to tend to our heart, a place to be heard and understood, a place to get help. I am here to provide that place for you. Perhaps you have been feeling anxious or down. Maybe you feel stuck and are needing direction or liberation or resolution in one or more areas of life. With grace and affirmation, I will work closely with you to address what is hindering you and help you move forward. I work from a person-centered approach that is tailored to your needs.
(214) 433-2721 x2 View (214) 433-2721 x2
Photo of Isabella Cerritos, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Dallas, TX
Isabella Cerritos
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
Are you ready to be more vulnerable but aren’t sure where to start? Have you found yourself struggling to share honestly with those around you? Or maybe you’ve tried sharing more of yourself with others, but you aren’t sure where you belong or if others will accept you? Our families can have a big impact on how we show up in our adult relationships. Cultural messages often impact how safe we feel to be fully ourselves. Shame and guilt can hold us back from experiencing intimacy and connection with ourselves and others. Together we will help you heal from any past wounds so you can feel more aligned in the present.
Are you ready to be more vulnerable but aren’t sure where to start? Have you found yourself struggling to share honestly with those around you? Or maybe you’ve tried sharing more of yourself with others, but you aren’t sure where you belong or if others will accept you? Our families can have a big impact on how we show up in our adult relationships. Cultural messages often impact how safe we feel to be fully ourselves. Shame and guilt can hold us back from experiencing intimacy and connection with ourselves and others. Together we will help you heal from any past wounds so you can feel more aligned in the present.
(469) 654-4399 View (469) 654-4399
Photo of Gail York, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Gail York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor bringing more than fifteen years experience in counseling individuals of various ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, including children, adolescents and adults. I am an empathic, organized professional with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude. I am compassionate and solution oriented using several treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help people suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction and many other mental health issues.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor bringing more than fifteen years experience in counseling individuals of various ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, including children, adolescents and adults. I am an empathic, organized professional with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude. I am compassionate and solution oriented using several treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help people suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction and many other mental health issues.
(321) 326-9154 View (321) 326-9154
Photo of Rachel Gerbosi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Rachel Gerbosi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252  (Online Only)
My first priority in the counseling process is to ensure a trusting therapeutic relationship between you and I. No two people are the same, and it is my mission for us to work together to establish goals that are personalized to fit your unique needs. We, as individuals, encounter challenges in life that cause us to feel overwhelmed. It is important for me to help you see your potential, finding meaning and direction in your life, through positive encouragement. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, in the state of Texas.
My first priority in the counseling process is to ensure a trusting therapeutic relationship between you and I. No two people are the same, and it is my mission for us to work together to establish goals that are personalized to fit your unique needs. We, as individuals, encounter challenges in life that cause us to feel overwhelmed. It is important for me to help you see your potential, finding meaning and direction in your life, through positive encouragement. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, in the state of Texas.
(469) 294-8589 View (469) 294-8589
Photo of Barbara van Drie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Barbara van Drie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75229
Whether you are coping with a difficult past, worrying about an uncertain future, or desiring to achieve at a higher level, therapy can help. I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety and depression (CBT), expertise in treating ADHD in adolescents and adults, coaching for parents or partners of individuals with ADHD, relationship skills for couples or individuals in a difficult relationship, evidence-based treatment for perfectionism, evidence-based treatment for trauma, mindfulness techniques, or life or career transition or stress.
Whether you are coping with a difficult past, worrying about an uncertain future, or desiring to achieve at a higher level, therapy can help. I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety and depression (CBT), expertise in treating ADHD in adolescents and adults, coaching for parents or partners of individuals with ADHD, relationship skills for couples or individuals in a difficult relationship, evidence-based treatment for perfectionism, evidence-based treatment for trauma, mindfulness techniques, or life or career transition or stress.
(214) 833-9499 View (214) 833-9499
Photo of Hunter B. Small, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Hunter B. Small
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75229  (Online Only)
I strive to help individuals struggling with distressing emotions, unhealthy relationships, uncertainty, and the overwhelming demands of life. I see a wide range of clients, including those suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. In therapy, I will help you to develop an understanding of how past experiences influence your current struggles. As you learn about yourself and the origin of your suffering, you will become more self-aware, fulfilled, and equipped to make positive changes. I offer several trauma-focused therapeutic modalities, including EMDR and somatic (body-focused) approaches.
I strive to help individuals struggling with distressing emotions, unhealthy relationships, uncertainty, and the overwhelming demands of life. I see a wide range of clients, including those suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. In therapy, I will help you to develop an understanding of how past experiences influence your current struggles. As you learn about yourself and the origin of your suffering, you will become more self-aware, fulfilled, and equipped to make positive changes. I offer several trauma-focused therapeutic modalities, including EMDR and somatic (body-focused) approaches.
(469) 425-2783 View (469) 425-2783
Photo of Débora Spradling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dallas, TX
Débora Spradling
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75218
Provisionally Licensed Psychologist. Hi there! My name is Débora Spradling I am incredibly passionate about providing a safe space for others through empathy and unconditional positive regard. Therapy requires such a deep vulnerability, and I feel honored to enter those moments with my clients. There are few things more rewarding than watching others grow in their recognition of who they are and what they need.
Provisionally Licensed Psychologist. Hi there! My name is Débora Spradling I am incredibly passionate about providing a safe space for others through empathy and unconditional positive regard. Therapy requires such a deep vulnerability, and I feel honored to enter those moments with my clients. There are few things more rewarding than watching others grow in their recognition of who they are and what they need.
(469) 840-1901 View (469) 840-1901

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dallas, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
75% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
70% Coping Skills
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Dallas, TX see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dallas?

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.