Therapists in Birmingham, AL

Photo of Shurla Morris, LICSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shurla Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35203
Whether it is a global pandemic that shuts down the world around us, the loss of a loved one, divorce, sexual trauma, domestic violence, loss of employment, or stress related to parenting. The need for quality accessible mental health care is a necessity for individuals in today's society.
Whether it is a global pandemic that shuts down the world around us, the loss of a loved one, divorce, sexual trauma, domestic violence, loss of employment, or stress related to parenting. The need for quality accessible mental health care is a necessity for individuals in today's society.
(205) 882-3120 View (205) 882-3120
Photo of Melissa Werner, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Werner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35216
Congratulations on wanting to make changes to enhance the quality of your life! I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a knowledgeable advocate supporting us. I believe effective psychotherapy is often about both uncovering how we acquired the (literal or psychological) obstacles to our best paths and about the process of (emotional, cognitive and/or behavioral) skills' acquisition to remove those blocks. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
Congratulations on wanting to make changes to enhance the quality of your life! I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a knowledgeable advocate supporting us. I believe effective psychotherapy is often about both uncovering how we acquired the (literal or psychological) obstacles to our best paths and about the process of (emotional, cognitive and/or behavioral) skills' acquisition to remove those blocks. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
(205) 690-5551 View (205) 690-5551
Photo of Lauren Foster - Ellie Mental Health - Mountain Brook, LPC, LICSW, LMFT, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Mental Health - Mountain Brook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LICSW, LMFT, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35213
Evening & Weekend Availability NOW! Welcome to Ellie Mental Health (Birmingham-Mountain Brook), where authenticity thrives in a safe, compassionate, & inviting space. We are dedicated to providing exceptional care that meets you where you are on your journey in life. Our empathetic approach recognizes the importance of the whole person, addressing your mental health concerns while embracing your overall well-being. Our goal is to support you in cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and stronger connections. With us, you'll experience a transformative path towards personal growth, increased self-esteem, and a more fulfilling life.
Evening & Weekend Availability NOW! Welcome to Ellie Mental Health (Birmingham-Mountain Brook), where authenticity thrives in a safe, compassionate, & inviting space. We are dedicated to providing exceptional care that meets you where you are on your journey in life. Our empathetic approach recognizes the importance of the whole person, addressing your mental health concerns while embracing your overall well-being. Our goal is to support you in cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and stronger connections. With us, you'll experience a transformative path towards personal growth, increased self-esteem, and a more fulfilling life.
(659) 204-1255 View (659) 204-1255
Photo of Brian Bradford, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Bradford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
(205) 990-3674 View (205) 990-3674
Photo of Daniel Seigel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Seigel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203
Have you ever wondered where that anger comes from, or why you can't seem to shake that feeling of guilt or self-deception that keeps getting the best of you? My approach centers around understanding where we get our anxiety and how we can work to create a better sense of calm in our lives. Every person struggles throughout their life to hold onto the positive relationships and the warmth and belonging of their families, but sometimes life throws us so many curves that we swing and swing until we're hot with rage or blue with sadness.
Have you ever wondered where that anger comes from, or why you can't seem to shake that feeling of guilt or self-deception that keeps getting the best of you? My approach centers around understanding where we get our anxiety and how we can work to create a better sense of calm in our lives. Every person struggles throughout their life to hold onto the positive relationships and the warmth and belonging of their families, but sometimes life throws us so many curves that we swing and swing until we're hot with rage or blue with sadness.
(205) 900-3228 View (205) 900-3228
Photo of David E. Myers, PhD, Psychologist
David E. Myers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Traumatic events or issues with family, relationship and work can lead to depression, chronic anxiety, grief and PTSD. Resultantly, the quality of life deteriorates. Psychotherapy (counseling) enables you to explore your cognitive and emotional sides. It involves connecting your past wounds and present emotions. Psychodynamic therapy enables you to go beyond managing your present emotions and go to the source. I have explored and had many diversified experiences in Spirituality which is important in terms of your present and past experiences. My holistic orientation includes heed to nutrition in all matters related to the MIND-BODY-SPIRIT connection.
Traumatic events or issues with family, relationship and work can lead to depression, chronic anxiety, grief and PTSD. Resultantly, the quality of life deteriorates. Psychotherapy (counseling) enables you to explore your cognitive and emotional sides. It involves connecting your past wounds and present emotions. Psychodynamic therapy enables you to go beyond managing your present emotions and go to the source. I have explored and had many diversified experiences in Spirituality which is important in terms of your present and past experiences. My holistic orientation includes heed to nutrition in all matters related to the MIND-BODY-SPIRIT connection.
(205) 216-5042 View (205) 216-5042
Photo of Andrea Mathews - Andrea Mathews, LPC, NCC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Mathews, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205
Are you commonly losing yourself in relationships? Do you easily give up yourself to please others? Do you find yourself saying, "I don't even know who I am?" Or maybe you would say, "I'm not sure I've ever known who I am." Do you have a history of childhood trauma/abuse, or were you raised by toxic parents? Or perhaps you have experienced spiritual abuse perpetrated by parents, or false spiritual leaders. Are you gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, non-binary, queer, questioning other member of the LGBTQ+ population? Are you having relationship problems? I have worked with these issues and more for over more than 30 years.
Are you commonly losing yourself in relationships? Do you easily give up yourself to please others? Do you find yourself saying, "I don't even know who I am?" Or maybe you would say, "I'm not sure I've ever known who I am." Do you have a history of childhood trauma/abuse, or were you raised by toxic parents? Or perhaps you have experienced spiritual abuse perpetrated by parents, or false spiritual leaders. Are you gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, non-binary, queer, questioning other member of the LGBTQ+ population? Are you having relationship problems? I have worked with these issues and more for over more than 30 years.
(205) 216-5074 View (205) 216-5074
Photo of Bethany Morse, MS, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Bethany Morse
Counselor, MS, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I am deeply passionate about working with those who feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. Many of my clients often find themselves exhausted, neglecting themselves, and struggling to manage their emotions. Together, we can embark on a journey to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and cultivate the empowerment needed to confront life's challenges head-on. Drawing from my own transformative experiences within safe and therapeutic relationships, I am committed to creating that same nurturing environment for you.
I am deeply passionate about working with those who feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. Many of my clients often find themselves exhausted, neglecting themselves, and struggling to manage their emotions. Together, we can embark on a journey to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and cultivate the empowerment needed to confront life's challenges head-on. Drawing from my own transformative experiences within safe and therapeutic relationships, I am committed to creating that same nurturing environment for you.
(205) 751-4996 View (205) 751-4996
Photo of Danielle Yourgules, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Yourgules
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
There's an energy in your body that just won't settle. This isn't an exciting feeling. This restlessness is daunting. Negative thoughts plague you day by day. Prayer brings you some relief, but it's only a matter of time before the mind takes over once again. You've become reactive. The irritability is exhausting. Your thoughts keep you up at night and the sleeplessness fans the intrusive thoughts into a flame. It's a vicious cycle. You're not the best version of yourself. You're craving tranquility, rest, and contentment for your life. You're ready to find your peace.
There's an energy in your body that just won't settle. This isn't an exciting feeling. This restlessness is daunting. Negative thoughts plague you day by day. Prayer brings you some relief, but it's only a matter of time before the mind takes over once again. You've become reactive. The irritability is exhausting. Your thoughts keep you up at night and the sleeplessness fans the intrusive thoughts into a flame. It's a vicious cycle. You're not the best version of yourself. You're craving tranquility, rest, and contentment for your life. You're ready to find your peace.
(205) 964-9395 View (205) 964-9395
Photo of April L Coleman, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April L Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Mental Health concerns are public health concerns. Your mental wellbeing is just as important as your physical health. We all go through things and you don't have to go through those things alone. As a Therapist, I would like to be considered an additional support system for you. I would like to help you navigate and process your concerns and or issues; while providing you the tools you need for your toolbox- on your continued path to growth. Let's Talk!
Mental Health concerns are public health concerns. Your mental wellbeing is just as important as your physical health. We all go through things and you don't have to go through those things alone. As a Therapist, I would like to be considered an additional support system for you. I would like to help you navigate and process your concerns and or issues; while providing you the tools you need for your toolbox- on your continued path to growth. Let's Talk!
(205) 270-5175 View (205) 270-5175
Photo of Kristin L Graham, MA, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Kristin L Graham
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I bring a unique and inclusive perspective to my practice, one that is deeply rooted in my own identity as a queer individual and my commitment to being welcoming to individuals who are on the Gender, Sex and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) spectrum. I am knowledgeable in kink dynamics, queer relationship issues, and consensual nonmonogamy practices. In a world that often misunderstands or stigmatizes individuals on the GSRD spectrum, I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their desires, express themselves authentically, and seek support for any related challenges.
As a therapist, I bring a unique and inclusive perspective to my practice, one that is deeply rooted in my own identity as a queer individual and my commitment to being welcoming to individuals who are on the Gender, Sex and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) spectrum. I am knowledgeable in kink dynamics, queer relationship issues, and consensual nonmonogamy practices. In a world that often misunderstands or stigmatizes individuals on the GSRD spectrum, I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their desires, express themselves authentically, and seek support for any related challenges.
(205) 202-0650 View (205) 202-0650
Photo of Julie Knox, MSW, LICSW, CHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Knox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Alabama, Arizona, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Washington with 20 years of professional clinical, counseling, and coaching experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & depression. I also have experience working with clients coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
I am licensed in Alabama, Arizona, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Washington with 20 years of professional clinical, counseling, and coaching experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & depression. I also have experience working with clients coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
(659) 201-7317 View (659) 201-7317
Photo of Whitney Elrod, MS, ALC, NCC, RYT
Whitney Elrod
Associate Licensed Counselor, MS, ALC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35213
I offer a unique blend of evidence-based psychotherapy and integrative wellness practices. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate challenges and reach their full potential by fostering growth, healing, and resilience. I emphasize nervous system regulation and offer tools to manage overwhelming emotions. My specialties include sexuality counseling, substance abuse, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, and challenging life transitions. No obstacle is too great.
I offer a unique blend of evidence-based psychotherapy and integrative wellness practices. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate challenges and reach their full potential by fostering growth, healing, and resilience. I emphasize nervous system regulation and offer tools to manage overwhelming emotions. My specialties include sexuality counseling, substance abuse, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, and challenging life transitions. No obstacle is too great.
(659) 300-4634 View (659) 300-4634
Photo of Arkaya 'kady' Williams-Abbott - Kady Abbott Counseling Solutions, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kady Abbott Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203  (Online Only)
Hello! Congratulations on seeking help for yourself or a loved one. My name is Kady Abbott and I have been in the field of overall, general wellness, addiction/alcoholism, co-occurring disorders, and domestic violence for over 23 years. Making counseling convenient for my clients is important to me, which is why I offer video/text/phone sessions in addition to in office sessions. I am conveniently located in the Downtown Birmingham area and my virtual office is HIPPA Compliant and offers a Business Associate Agreement ensuring strict confidentiality. Are you looking for counselor supervision? Visit my website at www.kadyabbottcs.com or call me.
Hello! Congratulations on seeking help for yourself or a loved one. My name is Kady Abbott and I have been in the field of overall, general wellness, addiction/alcoholism, co-occurring disorders, and domestic violence for over 23 years. Making counseling convenient for my clients is important to me, which is why I offer video/text/phone sessions in addition to in office sessions. I am conveniently located in the Downtown Birmingham area and my virtual office is HIPPA Compliant and offers a Business Associate Agreement ensuring strict confidentiality. Are you looking for counselor supervision? Visit my website at www.kadyabbottcs.com or call me.
(205) 619-8260 View (205) 619-8260
Photo of Jack Kilpatrick, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
I help men who are struggling with anxiety through evidence-based modes of treatment, caring, plain talk, and a strong vision of non-toxic masculinity.
I help men who are struggling with anxiety through evidence-based modes of treatment, caring, plain talk, and a strong vision of non-toxic masculinity.
(205) 809-6561 View (205) 809-6561
Photo of Rebecca Alice Gray, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Alice Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35215
I have seen first hand the difference a good counselor can make and I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique challenges and strengths. I believe every person is unique and I would be honored to work with you to find a therapy approach that suits your individual needs and goals!
I have seen first hand the difference a good counselor can make and I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique challenges and strengths. I believe every person is unique and I would be honored to work with you to find a therapy approach that suits your individual needs and goals!
(205) 740-6970 View (205) 740-6970
Photo of Rhonna W. Phillips - Rhonna W Phillips Counseling & Therapy Srvcs, LLC, MA, LPC-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonna W Phillips Counseling & Therapy Srvcs, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Not accepting new clients
I have 35+ yrs experience. Clients know deep down what they need. My job is to help the person explore their thoughts and feelings & find their own direction for happier or healthier living. I respect a client's self direction & his/her readiness for change. I will explore, guide, probe, even challenge in a kind, gentle and respectful way. I am trained to provide Collaborative Practice/Mediated conflict resolutions; out of court, preserving the dignity of the individuals & relationships. Clients tell me I have a keen sense of understanding their perspectives, they feel respected, & I am greatly helpful to them.
I have 35+ yrs experience. Clients know deep down what they need. My job is to help the person explore their thoughts and feelings & find their own direction for happier or healthier living. I respect a client's self direction & his/her readiness for change. I will explore, guide, probe, even challenge in a kind, gentle and respectful way. I am trained to provide Collaborative Practice/Mediated conflict resolutions; out of court, preserving the dignity of the individuals & relationships. Clients tell me I have a keen sense of understanding their perspectives, they feel respected, & I am greatly helpful to them.
(205) 210-9996 View (205) 210-9996
Photo of Alesha Rebekah Thomas, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alesha Rebekah Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I will work with you to meet your goals. I want you to live your best life. We will work together to come up with a personalized plan for your mental health. I look forward to working with you and seeing the progress that we can make. I use a person-centered approach to help you obtain your goals. You are in complete control of your therapy. Let's do some great things and bring about the change you want in your life. I cannot wait to meet you!
I will work with you to meet your goals. I want you to live your best life. We will work together to come up with a personalized plan for your mental health. I look forward to working with you and seeing the progress that we can make. I use a person-centered approach to help you obtain your goals. You are in complete control of your therapy. Let's do some great things and bring about the change you want in your life. I cannot wait to meet you!
(205) 973-4394 View (205) 973-4394
Photo of Crystan Irwin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystan Irwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243
As a therapist, I seek to create a safe and welcoming space that cultivates growth and healing. I currently work in private practice with Insight Therapeutic Services. My passion is supporting individuals around identity and LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety and mood disorders, and strengths-based, trauma-informed counseling for children, adolescents, and adults.
As a therapist, I seek to create a safe and welcoming space that cultivates growth and healing. I currently work in private practice with Insight Therapeutic Services. My passion is supporting individuals around identity and LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety and mood disorders, and strengths-based, trauma-informed counseling for children, adolescents, and adults.
(659) 209-6026 View (659) 209-6026
Maya N Pace
Counselor, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35235
I am an Associate Licensed Counselor. I truly believe everyone has the potential to live their best lives. As a Therapist, my role is to guide clients in discovering their true selves. I do this by using a person-centered approach during therapy. Therapy sessions are done in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment. Clients feel free to express themselves during sessions. If you are feeling like no one understands, please call me to schedule an appointment.
I am an Associate Licensed Counselor. I truly believe everyone has the potential to live their best lives. As a Therapist, my role is to guide clients in discovering their true selves. I do this by using a person-centered approach during therapy. Therapy sessions are done in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment. Clients feel free to express themselves during sessions. If you are feeling like no one understands, please call me to schedule an appointment.
(205) 619-8369 View (205) 619-8369
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Birmingham, AL

800+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Birmingham, AL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
75% Coping Skills
75% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
71% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
52% Cigna and Evernorth
51% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Birmingham, AL see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Birmingham?

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.