Therapists in Jefferson County, AL

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Photo of Dr. Richard Trammel in Jefferson County, AL
Dr. Richard Trammel
EdD, MS, L3S-CT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205
As a REAL sports psychologist, I have a unique practice in that I specialize in working with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level. Being a competitive athlete helps me relate to other competitive people in sports or business. My primary focus is on confidence building and the elimination of performance anxiety. I use a 3 tiered approach to training: Perspective Training, Mental Skills Training, and Applied Settings (if applicable at a sporting location). I am the only professional to offer that kind of travel service. I have also worked with Olympic Athletes (past and hopeful) and professional musicians.
As a REAL sports psychologist, I have a unique practice in that I specialize in working with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level. Being a competitive athlete helps me relate to other competitive people in sports or business. My primary focus is on confidence building and the elimination of performance anxiety. I use a 3 tiered approach to training: Perspective Training, Mental Skills Training, and Applied Settings (if applicable at a sporting location). I am the only professional to offer that kind of travel service. I have also worked with Olympic Athletes (past and hopeful) and professional musicians.
(205) 255-9654 View (205) 255-9654
Photo of Sarah Grace Stevenson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Jefferson County, AL
Sarah Grace Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Waitlist for new clients
When we start seeking out romantic partners, we seek out what is familiar- what we learned from our parents or caregivers. Sometimes our parents gave us great examples of what a future relationship should be like; other times, our parents showed us what to avoid in those relationships. As adults we are continually trying to recreate what feels comfortable in our future relationships based on our past experiences, namely, our childhood environments. Things can go wrong when we have unmet emotional needs from childhood and then project them onto our partner. This can lead to many disappointments and failed expectations.
When we start seeking out romantic partners, we seek out what is familiar- what we learned from our parents or caregivers. Sometimes our parents gave us great examples of what a future relationship should be like; other times, our parents showed us what to avoid in those relationships. As adults we are continually trying to recreate what feels comfortable in our future relationships based on our past experiences, namely, our childhood environments. Things can go wrong when we have unmet emotional needs from childhood and then project them onto our partner. This can lead to many disappointments and failed expectations.
(256) 573-1096 View (256) 573-1096
Photo of Hannah Grace Jones, Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Hannah Grace Jones
Counselor, MEd, ALC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
Too often we tell ourselves that we must show up in a way that is “expected” or “appropriate” rather than believing we can have the freedom and agency to be authentic in our brokenness. I am passionate about being with people of all ages who are searching to find their voice - and to know how to use that voice in a healthy capacity. I believe it is such an honor to walk with others as they explore the bridge between despair and hope which can be a lonely path when attempted alone. I enjoy being with a wide variety of clients including children, adolescents, trauma survivors, and to those seeking pre-marital counseling.
Too often we tell ourselves that we must show up in a way that is “expected” or “appropriate” rather than believing we can have the freedom and agency to be authentic in our brokenness. I am passionate about being with people of all ages who are searching to find their voice - and to know how to use that voice in a healthy capacity. I believe it is such an honor to walk with others as they explore the bridge between despair and hope which can be a lonely path when attempted alone. I enjoy being with a wide variety of clients including children, adolescents, trauma survivors, and to those seeking pre-marital counseling.
(205) 973-5689 View (205) 973-5689
Photo of Virginia Brady, Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Virginia Brady
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
My mission is to be a place where one can come to feel safe, whole and filled with hope. I am someone who is passionate about my clients and want to see nothing but the best for each and every client that walks into my office. I bring a person-centered approach to each session and lean into forming a strong rapport with my clients. I also use other methods like cognitive behavior therapy and emotion focused therapy to meet the client where they're at and help to facilitate change. I believe we have the power to change the way that we are living and build ourselves into a strong, healthy and whole person.
My mission is to be a place where one can come to feel safe, whole and filled with hope. I am someone who is passionate about my clients and want to see nothing but the best for each and every client that walks into my office. I bring a person-centered approach to each session and lean into forming a strong rapport with my clients. I also use other methods like cognitive behavior therapy and emotion focused therapy to meet the client where they're at and help to facilitate change. I believe we have the power to change the way that we are living and build ourselves into a strong, healthy and whole person.
(336) 360-5276 View (336) 360-5276
Photo of Luke Durham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson County, AL
Luke Durham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. With over 13 years of experience in the field, I understand the benefit of connection over anything else. Every clinician will not be your cup of tea, so let me help you decide if I am the right fit for YOU. You really can have a life of abundance, peace, happiness, and joy!
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. With over 13 years of experience in the field, I understand the benefit of connection over anything else. Every clinician will not be your cup of tea, so let me help you decide if I am the right fit for YOU. You really can have a life of abundance, peace, happiness, and joy!
(205) 941-8332 View (205) 941-8332
Photo of Janice E Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Janice E Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Waitlist for new clients
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
(205) 301-2774 View (205) 301-2774
Photo of Generations Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Generations Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Often, as we are navigating our way through life, we find that we need help to find balance and clarity. I have worked with individuals, couples and families throughout my thirty year career as they face various challenges. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist using a number of therapeutic modalities to ensure individualized care . Areas in which I am experienced include but are not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, family relations, self esteem, domestic violence and anger management. I believe in therapy that is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of my clients. Together we develop a plan to attain your emotional wellness.
Often, as we are navigating our way through life, we find that we need help to find balance and clarity. I have worked with individuals, couples and families throughout my thirty year career as they face various challenges. I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist using a number of therapeutic modalities to ensure individualized care . Areas in which I am experienced include but are not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, family relations, self esteem, domestic violence and anger management. I believe in therapy that is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of my clients. Together we develop a plan to attain your emotional wellness.
(205) 358-0376 View (205) 358-0376
Photo of Rebecca Welsh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Rebecca Welsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
It has been said that: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling.Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
It has been said that: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling.Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
(205) 858-9520 View (205) 858-9520
Photo of T Celeste Agan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson County, AL
T Celeste Agan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35233
Working with clients is a privilege, not just an occupation. The work we do as therapists can change the trajectory of a person's life. I do not skirt around the tough issues when someone asks me for help. My role is not to get paid for chit chat. We determine what your goals are and envision success- problem solving the most effective ways to get you where you want to be, breaking down the barriers along the way as much as possible. Often we create our own barriers and prevent our own progress. I only use what works- after 20 years as a counselor I have weeded out the BS and have found what works.
Working with clients is a privilege, not just an occupation. The work we do as therapists can change the trajectory of a person's life. I do not skirt around the tough issues when someone asks me for help. My role is not to get paid for chit chat. We determine what your goals are and envision success- problem solving the most effective ways to get you where you want to be, breaking down the barriers along the way as much as possible. Often we create our own barriers and prevent our own progress. I only use what works- after 20 years as a counselor I have weeded out the BS and have found what works.
(205) 883-5063 View (205) 883-5063
Photo of Taber Carlson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Taber Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
I counsel people who feel broken & hurt and who desire the strength to endure whatever challenges life throws at them. I employ an integrative approach tailored to your personal strengths in order to help you overcoming challenges and enhance your quality of life mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually.
I counsel people who feel broken & hurt and who desire the strength to endure whatever challenges life throws at them. I employ an integrative approach tailored to your personal strengths in order to help you overcoming challenges and enhance your quality of life mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually.
(251) 220-9594 View (251) 220-9594
Photo of Tamara Oliver-Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Tamara Oliver-Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC , NCC, CAMS-II, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bessemer, AL 35020
I work to create a safe, confidential, genuine, and non-judgmental setting, which is essential for establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship. When clients can experience a sense of unconditional positive regard from their therapist, they will be more apt to be vested in the therapeutic process. Part of my job as a therapist is to actively listen to what you are saying and not saying, during each session. Through active listening, I can help you explore the underlying issues of your experience as well as identify your personal strengths. I utilize a myriad of therapeutic approaches in meeting clients' individual therapeutic goals, needs, and styles. Such as, 'talk' therapy, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy, etc. I promote increased self-awareness and actualization, which develops emotional, physical, and spiritual balance. This works towards reducing many sources of conflict in one's life.
I work to create a safe, confidential, genuine, and non-judgmental setting, which is essential for establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship. When clients can experience a sense of unconditional positive regard from their therapist, they will be more apt to be vested in the therapeutic process. Part of my job as a therapist is to actively listen to what you are saying and not saying, during each session. Through active listening, I can help you explore the underlying issues of your experience as well as identify your personal strengths. I utilize a myriad of therapeutic approaches in meeting clients' individual therapeutic goals, needs, and styles. Such as, 'talk' therapy, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy, etc. I promote increased self-awareness and actualization, which develops emotional, physical, and spiritual balance. This works towards reducing many sources of conflict in one's life.
(205) 881-5028 View (205) 881-5028
Photo of Lindsay Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Lindsay Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243
NOW accepting new patients. Currently many people report feeling lonely and isolated with crippling anxiety and depression. For some, they feel emotionally paralyzed and stuck. It is my belief that we can all live balanced lives with quality and purpose, regardless of our past or current circumstances. Together, we can work to implement positive coping mechanisms that can assist in making great change in your daily life.
NOW accepting new patients. Currently many people report feeling lonely and isolated with crippling anxiety and depression. For some, they feel emotionally paralyzed and stuck. It is my belief that we can all live balanced lives with quality and purpose, regardless of our past or current circumstances. Together, we can work to implement positive coping mechanisms that can assist in making great change in your daily life.
(205) 203-9111 View (205) 203-9111
Photo of Christopher E Litton, Psychologist in Jefferson County, AL
Christopher E Litton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
I have been serving the residents of Alabama for almost 20 years, and excited to be of help to you and your family. I provide service to adults and children over the age of 12, and work with a variety of issues including mood, grief, and trauma. I have extensive experience in helping people overcome psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), and have been working with this issue since 2011.
I have been serving the residents of Alabama for almost 20 years, and excited to be of help to you and your family. I provide service to adults and children over the age of 12, and work with a variety of issues including mood, grief, and trauma. I have extensive experience in helping people overcome psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), and have been working with this issue since 2011.
(205) 259-1744 View (205) 259-1744
Photo of Emmaus Counseling Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Emmaus Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35226  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life can be difficult, and this can leave a person feeling helpless. This makes one feel unable to see things positively, and one may think that others do not understand what is happening. I want to be that person who helps you walk through life with the possibility of regaining your hope and confidence. One of my passions is to help everyone feel empowered in overcoming whatever barriers they are going through.
Life can be difficult, and this can leave a person feeling helpless. This makes one feel unable to see things positively, and one may think that others do not understand what is happening. I want to be that person who helps you walk through life with the possibility of regaining your hope and confidence. One of my passions is to help everyone feel empowered in overcoming whatever barriers they are going through.
(205) 273-0265 View (205) 273-0265
Photo of Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
At Mind, Body & Heart Wellness Clinic our shared goal is to provide an integrative approach to counseling that assists you in finding your optimal mental, emotional, spiritual, and sexual health. MBH Wellness is comprised of multiple licensed therapists who specialize in and are passionate about a wide range of mental health concerns. We addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, sexual, physical, cultural, and socio-economic factors impacting your wellbeing. When you are paired with a therapist that fits your unique needs, positive change is a logical consequence!
(205) 509-1811 View (205) 509-1811
Photo of Shurla Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson County, AL
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 Jazmine Passley-Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jefferson County, AL
Jazmine Passley-Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Life is full of challenges, but being happy shouldn't be one of them! Whether your unhappiness is defined as an adolescent suffering from bullying, a spouse in a marriage that's lost its passion, a parent concerned with dysfunction in your family, or an individual struggling with grief, depression, or anxiety, I am here to help. I believe therapy is a place to help uncover your truths, not create them. We all have the tools necessary to be our best selves, sometimes we just a little guidance. While children are my main clientele, I have a heart for anyone who is ready to challenge their potential and unlock true happiness.
Life is full of challenges, but being happy shouldn't be one of them! Whether your unhappiness is defined as an adolescent suffering from bullying, a spouse in a marriage that's lost its passion, a parent concerned with dysfunction in your family, or an individual struggling with grief, depression, or anxiety, I am here to help. I believe therapy is a place to help uncover your truths, not create them. We all have the tools necessary to be our best selves, sometimes we just a little guidance. While children are my main clientele, I have a heart for anyone who is ready to challenge their potential and unlock true happiness.
View
Photo of Andrea Mathews, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson County, AL
Andrea Mathews, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Jacqueline Dillon DeMarco, Psychologist in Jefferson County, AL
Jacqueline Dillon DeMarco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
Hello and thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a licensed psychologist offering individual and couple therapy to adults. It can be difficult to choose a therapist who is right for you and to begin therapy. My intent is to create a supportive therapeutic environment to help you reach your therapeutic goals. Therapeutic interventions and techniques are tailored to the client's needs and personality, and treatments used are those supported by research as being effective interventions for your presenting problem.
Hello and thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a licensed psychologist offering individual and couple therapy to adults. It can be difficult to choose a therapist who is right for you and to begin therapy. My intent is to create a supportive therapeutic environment to help you reach your therapeutic goals. Therapeutic interventions and techniques are tailored to the client's needs and personality, and treatments used are those supported by research as being effective interventions for your presenting problem.
(205) 718-5433 View (205) 718-5433
Photo of W. Lee Gaston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson County, AL
W. Lee Gaston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Not accepting new clients
I have over 20 years of experience helping clients with a wide variety of problems in an environment of deep respect and acceptance.
I have over 20 years of experience helping clients with a wide variety of problems in an environment of deep respect and acceptance.
(205) 236-5299 View (205) 236-5299

See more therapy options for Jefferson County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Jefferson County, AL

800+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Jefferson County, AL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Self Esteem
76% Coping Skills
75% Relationship Issues
74% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
52% New Directions | Lucet
45% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Jefferson County, AL see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Jefferson County?

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.