Therapists in Cold Spring, NY

Photo of Roberta E Goldman, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Cold Spring, NY
Roberta E Goldman
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
I believe that in order to be healthy, we need to be able to work, to love, and to play. If you are overwhelmed with anxiety or feelings of being lost, unsure of what you want, feeling less than whole, finding yourself procrastinating when you don't know why, or having repeated difficulty in relationships, I am hopeful you have come to the right place. By looking closely at what may be holding you back, we will be able to understand it with fresh eyes. This can lead you to your goals of relief from suffering, a greater sense of choice, and more freedom to express the self you most want to be.
I believe that in order to be healthy, we need to be able to work, to love, and to play. If you are overwhelmed with anxiety or feelings of being lost, unsure of what you want, feeling less than whole, finding yourself procrastinating when you don't know why, or having repeated difficulty in relationships, I am hopeful you have come to the right place. By looking closely at what may be holding you back, we will be able to understand it with fresh eyes. This can lead you to your goals of relief from suffering, a greater sense of choice, and more freedom to express the self you most want to be.
(914) 506-5174 View (914) 506-5174
Photo of Denise A Angelo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Denise A Angelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
Not accepting new clients
I have over thirty years experience working in both school and clinical settings. I specialize in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, social difficulties and ADHD. My work with adults includes helping to manage feelings of depression and anxiety and to improve interpersonal relationships.
I have over thirty years experience working in both school and clinical settings. I specialize in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, social difficulties and ADHD. My work with adults includes helping to manage feelings of depression and anxiety and to improve interpersonal relationships.
(845) 260-0765 View (845) 260-0765
Photo of Jenny Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Jenny Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
I'm glad you've found yourself here. Acknowledging that you need support right now is a tough but necessary first step. Life and relationships can be complex and I find that it is often helpful have a neutral person to offer a listening ear, guidance, and to facilitate a process of gaining more insight about who you are and what you need. My role would be to help you work towards your goals, which may include building self-compassion, identifying and regulating uncomfortable emotions, processing old traumas, changing negative thoughts and patterns, overcoming challenges, strengthening relationships, implementing new coping skills.
I'm glad you've found yourself here. Acknowledging that you need support right now is a tough but necessary first step. Life and relationships can be complex and I find that it is often helpful have a neutral person to offer a listening ear, guidance, and to facilitate a process of gaining more insight about who you are and what you need. My role would be to help you work towards your goals, which may include building self-compassion, identifying and regulating uncomfortable emotions, processing old traumas, changing negative thoughts and patterns, overcoming challenges, strengthening relationships, implementing new coping skills.
(845) 251-4058 View (845) 251-4058
Photo of Brad Schultz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Brad Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
My service – Jungian analysis – covers your concerns about mood, relationships, sex and sexuality, creativity issues, compulsions, coping with change or loss, lack of passion, disorganization, or effects of neglect, abuse or trauma. Whereas counseling covers such concerns by aiming at rehabilitation, improved coping or solving problems in functioning, my service goes deeper, aiming at self-acceptance, clarity, balance and authenticity. We would boldly explore dreams, fantasies or whatever else your soul expresses, sensitive to cruel injustice within society, your work setting, your relationships and especially within your psyche.
My service – Jungian analysis – covers your concerns about mood, relationships, sex and sexuality, creativity issues, compulsions, coping with change or loss, lack of passion, disorganization, or effects of neglect, abuse or trauma. Whereas counseling covers such concerns by aiming at rehabilitation, improved coping or solving problems in functioning, my service goes deeper, aiming at self-acceptance, clarity, balance and authenticity. We would boldly explore dreams, fantasies or whatever else your soul expresses, sensitive to cruel injustice within society, your work setting, your relationships and especially within your psyche.
(646) 461-4949 View (646) 461-4949
Photo of Amy Rubin Morey, Counselor in Cold Spring, NY
Amy Rubin Morey
Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCB
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
Life can be very challenging at times and our usual way of managing doesn't work as effectively as it used to. Our coping skills aren't helping us to feel a sense of control and well-being and we end up feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, we can't sleep well, we under eat or overeat, experience mood changes and possible difficulties managing work, relationships and home life. I am committed to helping you understand what you are going through, developing strategies to make changes, assisting you with stress reduction so that you feel more comfortable within yourself and your life.
Life can be very challenging at times and our usual way of managing doesn't work as effectively as it used to. Our coping skills aren't helping us to feel a sense of control and well-being and we end up feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, we can't sleep well, we under eat or overeat, experience mood changes and possible difficulties managing work, relationships and home life. I am committed to helping you understand what you are going through, developing strategies to make changes, assisting you with stress reduction so that you feel more comfortable within yourself and your life.
(516) 252-0748 View (516) 252-0748
Photo of Lourdes Laifer Coaching in Cold Spring, NY
Lourdes Laifer Coaching
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cold Spring, NY 10516  (Online Only)
Do you feel "stuck" in a job or relationship that is draining the life out of you? Do you feel there’s something more in life for you? Do you worry that you're not fulfilling your potential? Are you afraid of making a change despite being desperately unhappy with your current situation? I specialize in helping my clients through transitions, life stage issues, and the associated stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. I also help with body image and food issues that distress many clients. My unique combination of strategies help my clients believe in their abilities, take control of their lives, and flourish. Visit LourdesLaiferCoaching.com
Do you feel "stuck" in a job or relationship that is draining the life out of you? Do you feel there’s something more in life for you? Do you worry that you're not fulfilling your potential? Are you afraid of making a change despite being desperately unhappy with your current situation? I specialize in helping my clients through transitions, life stage issues, and the associated stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. I also help with body image and food issues that distress many clients. My unique combination of strategies help my clients believe in their abilities, take control of their lives, and flourish. Visit LourdesLaiferCoaching.com
(845) 720-4178 View (845) 720-4178
Photo of Topfield Center, Art Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Topfield Center
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
At Topfield Center, we've been providing equine-assisted services to clients with physical, psychological, and developmental disabilities since 2010. We're extremely excited to be adding traditional and equine-assisted therapies to our offerings for the whole community in 2023. If you'd like the option to include animals as part of taking care of your mental health, we're the place for you. TEC is a fully ADA-accessible facility, built FOR people living with disabilities, and serving ALL people (with and without disability).
At Topfield Center, we've been providing equine-assisted services to clients with physical, psychological, and developmental disabilities since 2010. We're extremely excited to be adding traditional and equine-assisted therapies to our offerings for the whole community in 2023. If you'd like the option to include animals as part of taking care of your mental health, we're the place for you. TEC is a fully ADA-accessible facility, built FOR people living with disabilities, and serving ALL people (with and without disability).
(845) 539-0859 View (845) 539-0859
Photo of Deborah Joyce D'Angelo in Cold Spring, NY
Deborah Joyce D'Angelo
MS, LCAT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
As a creative arts therapist, I help people connect words, thoughts, and feelings to their life situations. I am committed to building therapeutic relationships that in help individuals be the best they can be for themselves, and the people in their environment. My compassionate approach gives clients access to practical way of working toward relief, develop coping skills, and explore solutions to life's challenges.
As a creative arts therapist, I help people connect words, thoughts, and feelings to their life situations. I am committed to building therapeutic relationships that in help individuals be the best they can be for themselves, and the people in their environment. My compassionate approach gives clients access to practical way of working toward relief, develop coping skills, and explore solutions to life's challenges.
(845) 809-7631 View (845) 809-7631
Photo of Attiya Awadallah, Art Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Attiya Awadallah
Art Therapist, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cold Spring, NY 10516  (Online Only)
If you're trying to make it all work, while dealing with difficult emotions, uncertainty and lack of support, you're not alone. I specialize in helping young adults with anxiety, depression and past trauma. Today's issues can be overwhelming, and your emotional and mental health are fundamental to the rest of your wellbeing. My aim is to help you develop the tools to heal from the past, manage your stress, and move forward feeling confident and connected. When you have the right supports in place you can build a strong foundation for your future and live a life aligned with your values and aspirations.
If you're trying to make it all work, while dealing with difficult emotions, uncertainty and lack of support, you're not alone. I specialize in helping young adults with anxiety, depression and past trauma. Today's issues can be overwhelming, and your emotional and mental health are fundamental to the rest of your wellbeing. My aim is to help you develop the tools to heal from the past, manage your stress, and move forward feeling confident and connected. When you have the right supports in place you can build a strong foundation for your future and live a life aligned with your values and aspirations.
(914) 875-2988 View (914) 875-2988
Photo of Hana Ramat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Hana Ramat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
People thinks you have it together all of the time. Really, you are overwhelmed spending all your energy making it look so. No one would know you are highly stressed, both at work and at home. You take care of everyone else's needs before your own, and while its exhausting, you feel too guilty to put yourself first. You have always succeeded in school and in work because that was what was expected of you. However, you know you are not living your truth. You know it's because you never took the time to figure out what truly fulfills you. As you try to sleep your heart pounds while you criticize yourself for not being good enough.
People thinks you have it together all of the time. Really, you are overwhelmed spending all your energy making it look so. No one would know you are highly stressed, both at work and at home. You take care of everyone else's needs before your own, and while its exhausting, you feel too guilty to put yourself first. You have always succeeded in school and in work because that was what was expected of you. However, you know you are not living your truth. You know it's because you never took the time to figure out what truly fulfills you. As you try to sleep your heart pounds while you criticize yourself for not being good enough.
(917) 832-1892 View (917) 832-1892
Photo of Brad Schultz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Brad Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
My service – Jungian analysis – covers your concerns about mood, relationships, sex and sexuality, creativity issues, compulsions, coping with change or loss, lack of passion, disorganization, or effects of neglect, abuse or trauma. Whereas counseling covers such concerns by aiming at rehabilitation, improved coping or solving problems in functioning, my service goes deeper, aiming at self-acceptance, clarity, balance and authenticity. We would boldly explore dreams, fantasies or whatever else your soul expresses, sensitive to cruel injustice within society, your work setting, your relationships and especially within your psyche.
My service – Jungian analysis – covers your concerns about mood, relationships, sex and sexuality, creativity issues, compulsions, coping with change or loss, lack of passion, disorganization, or effects of neglect, abuse or trauma. Whereas counseling covers such concerns by aiming at rehabilitation, improved coping or solving problems in functioning, my service goes deeper, aiming at self-acceptance, clarity, balance and authenticity. We would boldly explore dreams, fantasies or whatever else your soul expresses, sensitive to cruel injustice within society, your work setting, your relationships and especially within your psyche.
(845) 552-9205 View (845) 552-9205
Photo of Jane Wilson Cathcart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Jane Wilson Cathcart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, BC-DMT, CMA
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
Are you feeling stuck? Many people seek therapy when they are lacking energy or direction in some aspect of their life. Sometimes sadness won't leave. Or anxiety grows. Often past hurt and trauma interferes with daily life. Or it is difficult to negotiate one of life's transitions: finding or changing work life; partnering/marrying; moving/settling; separating/divorcing: birth; aging; illness and pain, or death of a loved one. Whatever the reason for seeking help we decide on the goals, charting a clear path for the journey to emotional health and greater satisfaction in life.
Are you feeling stuck? Many people seek therapy when they are lacking energy or direction in some aspect of their life. Sometimes sadness won't leave. Or anxiety grows. Often past hurt and trauma interferes with daily life. Or it is difficult to negotiate one of life's transitions: finding or changing work life; partnering/marrying; moving/settling; separating/divorcing: birth; aging; illness and pain, or death of a loved one. Whatever the reason for seeking help we decide on the goals, charting a clear path for the journey to emotional health and greater satisfaction in life.
(646) 606-2492 View (646) 606-2492
Photo of Head In The Right Direction Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Head In The Right Direction Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt misunderstood, judged, confused, or couldn't find the "right" words to express yourself? What about feeling lonely in a relationship? We have all encountered or experienced these feelings at one point in our lives. Let's have a conversation to explore and unpack all that you seek. I specialize in Marriage & Family dynamics as well as individual and relationship issues. Unpacking all related topics, we will explore the concepts of communication, commitment, intimacy, marriage, premarital relations, divorce, non-traditional couples, and much more.
Have you ever felt misunderstood, judged, confused, or couldn't find the "right" words to express yourself? What about feeling lonely in a relationship? We have all encountered or experienced these feelings at one point in our lives. Let's have a conversation to explore and unpack all that you seek. I specialize in Marriage & Family dynamics as well as individual and relationship issues. Unpacking all related topics, we will explore the concepts of communication, commitment, intimacy, marriage, premarital relations, divorce, non-traditional couples, and much more.
(845) 666-3294 View (845) 666-3294
Photo of Robin S. Brown, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Cold Spring, NY
Robin S. Brown
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
We seek therapy when we find ourselves stuck. My role is to help you get unstuck so that you can live a happier and more rewarding life. Working collaboratively, we will identify and explore unrecognized patterns of relationship. Our basic experience of the world is largely determined by the nature of these patterns. I can help you change these patterns, and in this way to discover new possibilities for living.
We seek therapy when we find ourselves stuck. My role is to help you get unstuck so that you can live a happier and more rewarding life. Working collaboratively, we will identify and explore unrecognized patterns of relationship. Our basic experience of the world is largely determined by the nature of these patterns. I can help you change these patterns, and in this way to discover new possibilities for living.
(646) 461-4605 View (646) 461-4605
Photo of Lynne Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Lynne Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
I believe that change is possible...and necessary to reach our goals for a happier life. I imagine you are ready for a change, either in your circumstances, your emotional state, or in patterns and behaviors that keep you stuck. Everyone needs help in order to identify blind spots and see things from a different perspective. I love working with anyone who is ready to take on the challenge of exploring their difficulties and overcoming obstacles that get in the way of feeling successful and satisfied.
I believe that change is possible...and necessary to reach our goals for a happier life. I imagine you are ready for a change, either in your circumstances, your emotional state, or in patterns and behaviors that keep you stuck. Everyone needs help in order to identify blind spots and see things from a different perspective. I love working with anyone who is ready to take on the challenge of exploring their difficulties and overcoming obstacles that get in the way of feeling successful and satisfied.
(646) 760-5147 View (646) 760-5147
Photo of New York Creative Therapists , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
New York Creative Therapists
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LCAT
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
Updated Sept 2023 • Openings in-person in Williamsburg, Brooklyn • Openings for Telehealth • Waitlist for our Cold Spring office • Therapy for Adults, Teens, Children 6-11, Parents and Families. Improve relationships, reduce anxiety, learn to regulate emotions, process traumatic events and reconnect to your own sense of competence and worth. We help people live happier, better connected, productive lives by combining the arts with proven psychotherapy treatment. In business for 16 years, we are licensed to practice psychotherapy and creative arts therapies.
Updated Sept 2023 • Openings in-person in Williamsburg, Brooklyn • Openings for Telehealth • Waitlist for our Cold Spring office • Therapy for Adults, Teens, Children 6-11, Parents and Families. Improve relationships, reduce anxiety, learn to regulate emotions, process traumatic events and reconnect to your own sense of competence and worth. We help people live happier, better connected, productive lives by combining the arts with proven psychotherapy treatment. In business for 16 years, we are licensed to practice psychotherapy and creative arts therapies.
(917) 293-4642 View (917) 293-4642
Photo of Cynthia Poorbaugh, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Cold Spring, NY
Cynthia Poorbaugh
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MFA, LP
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
We all have the fundamental need to grow into and express who we are meant to be. However, this natural process can be inhibited by our need to adapt to pressures of family and society, by trauma, or by seemingly unresolvable contradictions in our personality. The goal of therapy is to bring this latent process to life, and to make it more conscious. A good therapeutic relationship will help you to be more receptive to yourself and to notice and honor these inner workings.
We all have the fundamental need to grow into and express who we are meant to be. However, this natural process can be inhibited by our need to adapt to pressures of family and society, by trauma, or by seemingly unresolvable contradictions in our personality. The goal of therapy is to bring this latent process to life, and to make it more conscious. A good therapeutic relationship will help you to be more receptive to yourself and to notice and honor these inner workings.
(646) 699-3948 View (646) 699-3948
Photo of Ashley Kile, Art Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Ashley Kile
Art Therapist, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
Cold Spring, NY 10516
My approach is client-centered, relational, and strengths-based. I blend creative arts approaches with other evidence-based practices to engage clients in their therapeutic process.
My approach is client-centered, relational, and strengths-based. I blend creative arts approaches with other evidence-based practices to engage clients in their therapeutic process.
(347) 697-4715 View (347) 697-4715
Photo of Marian E Dunn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Marian E Dunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cold Spring, NY 10516
I offer brief effective counseling for relationship and sexual enhancement. For forty years, I've been helping individuals and couples to meet their goals: better communication, less conflict, greater intimacy and a better sexual life.I take a fresh approch to everyone to find the most efficient yet sensitive way to help. My training in Psychotherapy, Family and Relationship Therapy and Sex Therapy allows me a full range of skills to improve your life.I have experience working with persons of various religious and cultural traditions and work with people of all ages and sexual orientations. Check out www.mariandunn.com
I offer brief effective counseling for relationship and sexual enhancement. For forty years, I've been helping individuals and couples to meet their goals: better communication, less conflict, greater intimacy and a better sexual life.I take a fresh approch to everyone to find the most efficient yet sensitive way to help. My training in Psychotherapy, Family and Relationship Therapy and Sex Therapy allows me a full range of skills to improve your life.I have experience working with persons of various religious and cultural traditions and work with people of all ages and sexual orientations. Check out www.mariandunn.com
(914) 618-3159 View (914) 618-3159
Photo of Max Cutler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cold Spring, NY
Max Cutler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cold Spring, NY 10516
I provide trauma-focused individual and EMDR therapy to adolescents and adults (ages 16 an up) who struggle with anxiety, depression, panic, trust/abandonment issues, relationship problems including codependency/intimacy dysfunction, self esteem/identity issues and symptoms related to childhood trauma which can include: flashbacks, nightmares/night terrors, sleep distrubance, avoidance of trauma-related stimuli and hypervigilance.
I provide trauma-focused individual and EMDR therapy to adolescents and adults (ages 16 an up) who struggle with anxiety, depression, panic, trust/abandonment issues, relationship problems including codependency/intimacy dysfunction, self esteem/identity issues and symptoms related to childhood trauma which can include: flashbacks, nightmares/night terrors, sleep distrubance, avoidance of trauma-related stimuli and hypervigilance.
(917) 775-0235 View (917) 775-0235

See more therapy options for Cold Spring

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cold Spring, NY

40+

Average cost per session

$155

Therapists in Cold Spring, NY who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
84% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Stress
62% Grief
60% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
58% Aetna

How Therapists in Cold Spring, NY see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cold Spring?

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.