Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Renee Alice Souba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Renee Alice Souba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have 38 years experience and have always lived in the Fox Valley area. I love to work with teens, young adults and adults. I can help to work thru issues with parenting, divorce, anxiety,depression, grief and loss , family turmoil, etc. you have the strengths within you and I offer the support, guidance and therapy to help you move thru these life experiences in a more positive and self fulfilling way.I also am able to use my therapy dog Patrick in my sessions and my clients have really enjoyed having him near them.
I have 38 years experience and have always lived in the Fox Valley area. I love to work with teens, young adults and adults. I can help to work thru issues with parenting, divorce, anxiety,depression, grief and loss , family turmoil, etc. you have the strengths within you and I offer the support, guidance and therapy to help you move thru these life experiences in a more positive and self fulfilling way.I also am able to use my therapy dog Patrick in my sessions and my clients have really enjoyed having him near them.
(630) 793-4591 View (630) 793-4591
Photo of Eric Hoyme, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Eric Hoyme
Counselor, MPH, MA, LCPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
(224) 434-3168 View (224) 434-3168
Photo of Amy H. Bilka, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Amy H. Bilka
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I love Andy Warhol's quote: "They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself". I view the therapeutic process as collaborative, one in which I offer understanding and support to provide you with the space to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the courage to work toward making meaningful changes in your life. My style is one of warmth, empathy, humor and insight-oriented methods combined with therapeutic interventions tailored to fit your unique needs and treatment goals.
I love Andy Warhol's quote: "They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself". I view the therapeutic process as collaborative, one in which I offer understanding and support to provide you with the space to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the courage to work toward making meaningful changes in your life. My style is one of warmth, empathy, humor and insight-oriented methods combined with therapeutic interventions tailored to fit your unique needs and treatment goals.
(630) 812-1980 View (630) 812-1980
Photo of Kathleen Hayden, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Kathleen Hayden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I love the unfolding nature of therapy and actively come alongside people as they discover their true self and journey toward a state of greater well-being – mentally, emotionally, physically & spiritually. I strive to create a safe and accepting space for each person; and believe discovering strengths and resiliencies is an important part of the process.
I love the unfolding nature of therapy and actively come alongside people as they discover their true self and journey toward a state of greater well-being – mentally, emotionally, physically & spiritually. I strive to create a safe and accepting space for each person; and believe discovering strengths and resiliencies is an important part of the process.
(331) 244-2117 View (331) 244-2117
Photo of Lauren Madon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Lauren Madon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
My name is Lauren Madon, and I am a licensed social worker. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, elderly, and military veterans. I like to focus on helping people become more in tune with their authentic selves while identifying behaviors and thoughts that no longer serve you. Some of the areas I specialize in are anxiety, depression, self-harm behaviors, relationship issues, weight concerns/body image, domestic violence, and trauma, including abuse/neglect. When it comes to my clients, I want them to feel seen, heard, and validated because sometimes we just don't get that when it is really needed.
My name is Lauren Madon, and I am a licensed social worker. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, elderly, and military veterans. I like to focus on helping people become more in tune with their authentic selves while identifying behaviors and thoughts that no longer serve you. Some of the areas I specialize in are anxiety, depression, self-harm behaviors, relationship issues, weight concerns/body image, domestic violence, and trauma, including abuse/neglect. When it comes to my clients, I want them to feel seen, heard, and validated because sometimes we just don't get that when it is really needed.
(331) 260-0613 View (331) 260-0613
Photo of Natalie Yard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Naperville, IL
Natalie Yard
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
With a focus on individuals ages 18 to 40, she brings a warm, supportive and disarming energy to her sessions. She enjoys working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management and going through life changes/adjustments. She likes to say that this field allows her the unique opportunity to love on people for a living.
With a focus on individuals ages 18 to 40, she brings a warm, supportive and disarming energy to her sessions. She enjoys working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management and going through life changes/adjustments. She likes to say that this field allows her the unique opportunity to love on people for a living.
(331) 422-0998 View (331) 422-0998
Photo of Leah Lubniewski, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Leah Lubniewski
Counselor, LCPC, CGP, MHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
In working in a number of different settings, Leah has worked with a wide range of ages and diagnoses. The primary focus is adolescents through adults. Concerns that clients may work on, but not limited to, are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions/adjustments, adoption, mood management, and relationship/communication issues.
In working in a number of different settings, Leah has worked with a wide range of ages and diagnoses. The primary focus is adolescents through adults. Concerns that clients may work on, but not limited to, are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions/adjustments, adoption, mood management, and relationship/communication issues.
(630) 634-7581 x106 View (630) 634-7581 x106
Photo of Jennifer Otto, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Jennifer Otto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment in which to discover your inner strengths, develop healthy coping skills and learn techniques to help you battle the hardships you may be facing along your journey. I will collaborate with you in achieving your goals, fostering healthy relationships, and developing insight and self-awareness. I earned my master’s in science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. Coming from a medical background, I apply a holistic approach while utilizing integrated therapeutic techniques from CBT, DBT, trauma- focused, IFS, CCT, & more.
I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment in which to discover your inner strengths, develop healthy coping skills and learn techniques to help you battle the hardships you may be facing along your journey. I will collaborate with you in achieving your goals, fostering healthy relationships, and developing insight and self-awareness. I earned my master’s in science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. Coming from a medical background, I apply a holistic approach while utilizing integrated therapeutic techniques from CBT, DBT, trauma- focused, IFS, CCT, & more.
(630) 581-8727 x109 View (630) 581-8727 x109
Photo of Nevida Khetarpal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
Nevida Khetarpal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Nevida uses empathy and humility to help people work towards acceptance and understanding. She values the unique perspective and journey that each person brings with them. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, and family to help them create healthy connections within themselves and their relationships. In session, Nevida strives to assist individuals and families with establishing positive ways to cope with trauma, life stressors, and relationships. She focuses on helping people enhance their personal and relational growth by focusing on interpersonal connectedness.
Nevida uses empathy and humility to help people work towards acceptance and understanding. She values the unique perspective and journey that each person brings with them. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, and family to help them create healthy connections within themselves and their relationships. In session, Nevida strives to assist individuals and families with establishing positive ways to cope with trauma, life stressors, and relationships. She focuses on helping people enhance their personal and relational growth by focusing on interpersonal connectedness.
(331) 258-3264 View (331) 258-3264
Photo of Melissa Forte, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Melissa Forte
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC, PEL
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree from Lewis University. My background encompasses many different areas to include the mental health field, educational academic and career performance, corporate business and training, and EAP. I have 11 years in K-12 and higher education counseling and teaching experience as well as over 15 years in corporate business. My passion and vast experience in all of these settings and now within the clinical mental health setting for almost 7 years is how I thrive to assist all individuals in achieving complete satisfaction and success in all aspects of life!
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree from Lewis University. My background encompasses many different areas to include the mental health field, educational academic and career performance, corporate business and training, and EAP. I have 11 years in K-12 and higher education counseling and teaching experience as well as over 15 years in corporate business. My passion and vast experience in all of these settings and now within the clinical mental health setting for almost 7 years is how I thrive to assist all individuals in achieving complete satisfaction and success in all aspects of life!
(224) 509-6040 View (224) 509-6040
Photo of Jennifer Jasso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Jennifer Jasso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I believe therapy to be collaborative and distinctive to every individual’s specific needs. My goal is to help you heal and become increasingly empowered to be a stronger, happier and more content human being. I utilize a variety of techniques, including mindfulness, solution-focused brief therapy, strengths-based and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I believe therapy to be collaborative and distinctive to every individual’s specific needs. My goal is to help you heal and become increasingly empowered to be a stronger, happier and more content human being. I utilize a variety of techniques, including mindfulness, solution-focused brief therapy, strengths-based and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
(331) 241-6781 View (331) 241-6781
Photo of Dr. Sandra Carey, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Dr. Sandra Carey
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
There is hope. There is help. At the Center for Vitality and Balance we hold ground and create space to help you heal, grow and become. Time is taken to hear your whole story and help create insight into how to release the pain of your current experience and move towards a more vital and balanced relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you.
There is hope. There is help. At the Center for Vitality and Balance we hold ground and create space to help you heal, grow and become. Time is taken to hear your whole story and help create insight into how to release the pain of your current experience and move towards a more vital and balanced relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you.
(630) 812-7539 View (630) 812-7539
Photo of Alina Moore, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Alina Moore
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Sometimes the hardest thing is asking for help. Choosing to enter therapy is a courageous act and one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Finding the right therapist for you, someone whom you can trust, who makes you feel safe, and believes in you might feel difficult and daunting at times but is also one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy. I feel honored and grateful to each and every one of my clients who entrusted me with their stories and embarked on their healing journey with me. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain the necessary insight and skills to live the life you want and deserve.
Sometimes the hardest thing is asking for help. Choosing to enter therapy is a courageous act and one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Finding the right therapist for you, someone whom you can trust, who makes you feel safe, and believes in you might feel difficult and daunting at times but is also one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy. I feel honored and grateful to each and every one of my clients who entrusted me with their stories and embarked on their healing journey with me. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain the necessary insight and skills to live the life you want and deserve.
(630) 478-8074 View (630) 478-8074
Photo of Adam S Ratner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Adam S Ratner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Individuals/Families Challenged with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal/Family Dynamics, Grief/Loss, Behavioral Issues, Career Challenges, and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent to Older Adult. A recurrent objective is to explore my clients' challenges to aid in developing an awareness of conscious and unconscious thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that become drivers of actions that negatively impact quality of life. Once these factors are understood, real growth can occur by recognizing new ways of thinking, acting, and exploring options to lead to a more complete and fulfilling life. More info at https://www.growwellnessgroup.com.
Individuals/Families Challenged with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal/Family Dynamics, Grief/Loss, Behavioral Issues, Career Challenges, and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent to Older Adult. A recurrent objective is to explore my clients' challenges to aid in developing an awareness of conscious and unconscious thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that become drivers of actions that negatively impact quality of life. Once these factors are understood, real growth can occur by recognizing new ways of thinking, acting, and exploring options to lead to a more complete and fulfilling life. More info at https://www.growwellnessgroup.com.
(872) 228-2488 View (872) 228-2488
Photo of Erlinda A de la Torre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Erlinda A de la Torre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Do you often feel alone in your struggle, like people don't get it? When we face emotional or mental health struggles such as anxiety depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, loss, and past trauma, it can make us feel alone, lost, and hopeless. I want you to know, you are not alone, and there is help.
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Do you often feel alone in your struggle, like people don't get it? When we face emotional or mental health struggles such as anxiety depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, loss, and past trauma, it can make us feel alone, lost, and hopeless. I want you to know, you are not alone, and there is help.
(331) 260-9752 x4 View (331) 260-9752 x4
Photo of Meagan Alexander, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Meagan Alexander
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Hi! My name is Meagan (she/they) and I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds at both the residential and outpatient level of care. I prioritize creating a safe and inviting space for individuals to begin their healing journey and am grateful to have the opportunity to help individuals explore how pieces from our past can continue to impact us as we continue to get older. I strongly believe in taking an individualized and empathic approach in order to empower individuals as they strive to meet their goals, as well as to ensure they feel supported and heard.
Hi! My name is Meagan (she/they) and I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds at both the residential and outpatient level of care. I prioritize creating a safe and inviting space for individuals to begin their healing journey and am grateful to have the opportunity to help individuals explore how pieces from our past can continue to impact us as we continue to get older. I strongly believe in taking an individualized and empathic approach in order to empower individuals as they strive to meet their goals, as well as to ensure they feel supported and heard.
(630) 793-0967 View (630) 793-0967
Photo of Kristen Jopes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kristen Jopes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Kristen Jopes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from DePaul University and her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University. Kristen's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults, and older adults as well as external experience working with children and adolescents through athletic coaching. Her clinical experience consists of working within the community environment as well as a behavioral health hospital.
Kristen Jopes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from DePaul University and her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University. Kristen's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults, and older adults as well as external experience working with children and adolescents through athletic coaching. Her clinical experience consists of working within the community environment as well as a behavioral health hospital.
(331) 979-3224 View (331) 979-3224
Photo of Dr. Shantelle And Associates Ltd, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Dr. Shantelle And Associates Ltd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. I have worked in a residential treatment home, community agency, psychiatric unit, and school setting; subsequently, I have experience working with a variety of issues. Some issues that I particularly enjoy working with include, but are not limited to, behavioral and relational issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also enjoy working with athletes and sports-related issues. My approach is warm, accepting, interactive, and collaborative, and I work to tailor treatment to meet a client's individual needs through the use of a variety of treatment modalities.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. I have worked in a residential treatment home, community agency, psychiatric unit, and school setting; subsequently, I have experience working with a variety of issues. Some issues that I particularly enjoy working with include, but are not limited to, behavioral and relational issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also enjoy working with athletes and sports-related issues. My approach is warm, accepting, interactive, and collaborative, and I work to tailor treatment to meet a client's individual needs through the use of a variety of treatment modalities.
(630) 318-4770 View (630) 318-4770
Photo of Melanie Sophia Ochoa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Melanie Sophia Ochoa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Melanie Ochoa is a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Melanie is a graduate of Aurora University’s Master of Social Work Program. She utilizes a variety of evidence-based methods such as dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote positive personal growth and healthy communication. Melanie has experience treating general mental health and client concerns such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, family conflict, transition/adjustment concerns, and behavioral management. Melanie is fluent in Spanish.
Melanie Ochoa is a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Melanie is a graduate of Aurora University’s Master of Social Work Program. She utilizes a variety of evidence-based methods such as dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote positive personal growth and healthy communication. Melanie has experience treating general mental health and client concerns such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, family conflict, transition/adjustment concerns, and behavioral management. Melanie is fluent in Spanish.
(630) 835-0976 View (630) 835-0976
Photo of Dr. Valerie Maty, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Dr. Valerie Maty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
(331) 244-4868 x4 View (331) 244-4868 x4

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Naperville, IL

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Naperville, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
65% Grief
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
61% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Naperville, IL see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Naperville?

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.