Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Sarah R. Hamblen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sarah R. Hamblen, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
My name is Sarah R. Hamblen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing clinical services for over 17 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals of all ages, couples, and families on many different issues and concerns. The heart of my practice is finding the strengths within each individual and family. I strive to empower them to reach their goals both independently and as a family group. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, understanding, and implement effective change.
My name is Sarah R. Hamblen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing clinical services for over 17 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals of all ages, couples, and families on many different issues and concerns. The heart of my practice is finding the strengths within each individual and family. I strive to empower them to reach their goals both independently and as a family group. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, understanding, and implement effective change.
(865) 248-6816 View (865) 248-6816
Photo of Natasha Schwinn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Natasha Schwinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges in your daily life? As a counselor, I can help you identify your goals, develop coping skills, and navigate difficult situations in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges in your daily life? As a counselor, I can help you identify your goals, develop coping skills, and navigate difficult situations in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
(865) 419-3811 View (865) 419-3811
Photo of Codi Dawn Kyle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Codi Dawn Kyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37931  (Online Only)
I can help with symptom reduction from anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and mood swings, etc. As well as help improve your coping skills, increase awareness, improve self esteem and self confidence, interpersonal relationships, better work life balance, recovery from substance abuse and overall wellbeing and quality of life, etc.
I can help with symptom reduction from anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and mood swings, etc. As well as help improve your coping skills, increase awareness, improve self esteem and self confidence, interpersonal relationships, better work life balance, recovery from substance abuse and overall wellbeing and quality of life, etc.
(865) 375-8089 View (865) 375-8089
Photo of Laura DiMatteo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Laura DiMatteo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Not accepting new clients
Do you wonder where it all started? Do you ever think there could be a better way? In our work together we will look back at patterns, struggles and pain to trace the development of anxiety, depression, panic or other mental illness in your life. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I use my experience and training to help clients make the connection between their current struggles, and patterns that stretch back through their lives. Whether we are focused on the issues in the present, symptoms of anxiety or depression, or working through past trauma, the goal is to find strength and peace to live our best lives.
Do you wonder where it all started? Do you ever think there could be a better way? In our work together we will look back at patterns, struggles and pain to trace the development of anxiety, depression, panic or other mental illness in your life. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I use my experience and training to help clients make the connection between their current struggles, and patterns that stretch back through their lives. Whether we are focused on the issues in the present, symptoms of anxiety or depression, or working through past trauma, the goal is to find strength and peace to live our best lives.
(865) 503-4486 View (865) 503-4486
Photo of Lori Boudreaux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Lori Boudreaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Life can be difficult to navigate. Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and gratification from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve contentment and fulfillment in your life.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and gratification from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve contentment and fulfillment in your life.
(865) 426-1424 View (865) 426-1424
Photo of Stacy Gruhn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Stacy Gruhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP) in the State of Tennessee, and am a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC). I have worked with clients of all ages in a variety of settings and currently see clients ages 8 and up. My approach to counseling is client-centered and is tailored to the needs of each individual client, drawing on my knowledge and training in different modalities, including play therapy, art therapy, CBT, ACT and EMDR. When I am not working, I enjoy a rare quiet night at home with my family, but I spend most of my time these days driving one of my kids to their many events.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP) in the State of Tennessee, and am a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC). I have worked with clients of all ages in a variety of settings and currently see clients ages 8 and up. My approach to counseling is client-centered and is tailored to the needs of each individual client, drawing on my knowledge and training in different modalities, including play therapy, art therapy, CBT, ACT and EMDR. When I am not working, I enjoy a rare quiet night at home with my family, but I spend most of my time these days driving one of my kids to their many events.
(865) 424-6755 View (865) 424-6755
Photo of Trisha Overton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Trisha Overton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC(t), M Ed
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Our past may not define us, but we can sometimes carry our past with us in our bodies, and not realize it. If we do not properly process those past hurts, trials and traumas we continue to carry them with us through life. It is my hope as a therapist to help others to heal from those, and to let those past memories not be triggers of any negative or hurtful feelings, but to just be a memory. I am passionate about trauma therapy. I believe that there can be healing, and it is my desire to help others through that process.
Our past may not define us, but we can sometimes carry our past with us in our bodies, and not realize it. If we do not properly process those past hurts, trials and traumas we continue to carry them with us through life. It is my hope as a therapist to help others to heal from those, and to let those past memories not be triggers of any negative or hurtful feelings, but to just be a memory. I am passionate about trauma therapy. I believe that there can be healing, and it is my desire to help others through that process.
(865) 800-0560 View (865) 800-0560
Photo of Bojana Staley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Bojana Staley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel anxious, worried, or misunderstood? Or maybe you are feeling the weight of grief, trauma, depression, or anxiety and would like assistance in healing. Do you yearn for compassion and need someone to listen without judgment? If so, please reach out; I would love to talk. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort, and in this partnership, we will strive to achieve healing and your highest potential together. Our work together will offer insight into past experiences and relationships that may influence the present and provide tangible coping skills to help you move beyond where you currently find yourself.
Do you feel anxious, worried, or misunderstood? Or maybe you are feeling the weight of grief, trauma, depression, or anxiety and would like assistance in healing. Do you yearn for compassion and need someone to listen without judgment? If so, please reach out; I would love to talk. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort, and in this partnership, we will strive to achieve healing and your highest potential together. Our work together will offer insight into past experiences and relationships that may influence the present and provide tangible coping skills to help you move beyond where you currently find yourself.
(865) 413-5573 View (865) 413-5573
Photo of Sharon Britt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sharon Britt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Sharon is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider, that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to helping others with 30 years of experience. She has served clients in a variety of community and mental health settings such as outpatient treatment and private practice. Sharon has enjoyed working with adolescents, adults, and families. She also has extensive experience within the foster care and adoption system. Sharon takes a holistic approach to helping others and specializes in supporting those who want to overcome anxiety, grief, substance abuse, depression, anger management, and trauma.
Sharon is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider, that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to helping others with 30 years of experience. She has served clients in a variety of community and mental health settings such as outpatient treatment and private practice. Sharon has enjoyed working with adolescents, adults, and families. She also has extensive experience within the foster care and adoption system. Sharon takes a holistic approach to helping others and specializes in supporting those who want to overcome anxiety, grief, substance abuse, depression, anger management, and trauma.
(865) 509-9819 View (865) 509-9819
Photo of Minton Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Minton Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Minton Family Therapy (MFT) is a husband and wife, marriage and family therapy practice based in Knoxville, TN offering both in person and Telehealth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. MFT seeks to treat the whole person (or couple, or family) in the context of whatever may be impeding personal, professional, physical and emotional growth. Taking both a creative and integrative approach, potential patients can expect to explore longstanding patterns of interaction that may hinder current relationships and begin to reshape those patterns into a more healthy and whole self.
Minton Family Therapy (MFT) is a husband and wife, marriage and family therapy practice based in Knoxville, TN offering both in person and Telehealth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. MFT seeks to treat the whole person (or couple, or family) in the context of whatever may be impeding personal, professional, physical and emotional growth. Taking both a creative and integrative approach, potential patients can expect to explore longstanding patterns of interaction that may hinder current relationships and begin to reshape those patterns into a more healthy and whole self.
(865) 375-4593 View (865) 375-4593
Photo of Stephanie McClanahan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Stephanie McClanahan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
(865) 432-6963 x816 View (865) 432-6963 x816
Photo of Katie Black, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Katie Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am a fully licensed professional counselor with 7 years of therapy experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their personal journeys. I see patients aged 8 and up with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and many others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to understand your unique challenges and develop personalized strategies for overcoming them. I am accepting new patients via virtual/telehealth services through a HIPAA-compliant video conference.
I am a fully licensed professional counselor with 7 years of therapy experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their personal journeys. I see patients aged 8 and up with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and many others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to understand your unique challenges and develop personalized strategies for overcoming them. I am accepting new patients via virtual/telehealth services through a HIPAA-compliant video conference.
(865) 761-2797 View (865) 761-2797
Photo of Amber Christine Bird, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Amber Christine Bird
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
"There is not a person on earth you would not love if you only knew their story" -M. Hinkley. I look forward to getting to know all of my clients. It is a pleasure to learn your strengths and personal goals. I believe in the therapeutic process and look forward to watching each of my clients gain self-awareness and call on their own skills and strengths to achieve the changes they want to see in their lives.
"There is not a person on earth you would not love if you only knew their story" -M. Hinkley. I look forward to getting to know all of my clients. It is a pleasure to learn your strengths and personal goals. I believe in the therapeutic process and look forward to watching each of my clients gain self-awareness and call on their own skills and strengths to achieve the changes they want to see in their lives.
(865) 383-8658 View (865) 383-8658
Photo of Lakshmie Napagoda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Lakshmie Napagoda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917  (Online Only)
If you experience symptoms of traumas, feel like life is at a stuck point, or find it difficult to manage stress, I have qualifications and experience to work with you and guide you to minimize those symptoms so that you can begin to live your life the way you intend to live. I believe in my clients' abilities to take risks, work through their traumas, and experience healing. I have worked with diverse populations during my 18 years of experience as a therapist. I am trained in providing EMDR therapy and certified in CBT and DBT therapy modalities. I currently offer therapeutic services via a HIPPA compliant tele health platform.
If you experience symptoms of traumas, feel like life is at a stuck point, or find it difficult to manage stress, I have qualifications and experience to work with you and guide you to minimize those symptoms so that you can begin to live your life the way you intend to live. I believe in my clients' abilities to take risks, work through their traumas, and experience healing. I have worked with diverse populations during my 18 years of experience as a therapist. I am trained in providing EMDR therapy and certified in CBT and DBT therapy modalities. I currently offer therapeutic services via a HIPPA compliant tele health platform.
(865) 503-6657 View (865) 503-6657
Photo of Beth Shoaff, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Beth Shoaff
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Confiding in someone about your hardest times can be difficult and I am here to help guide you on that path, if you will have me! I wholeheartedly believe that everyone deserves a safe, comfortable space for self exploration. My hope is that you find a space in which you can be curious about yourself and your therapy process. I take an Interpersonal Process approach while also incorporating core concepts from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person Centered approaches. I believe to first start processing, we must build a strong foundation of skills and rapport.
Confiding in someone about your hardest times can be difficult and I am here to help guide you on that path, if you will have me! I wholeheartedly believe that everyone deserves a safe, comfortable space for self exploration. My hope is that you find a space in which you can be curious about yourself and your therapy process. I take an Interpersonal Process approach while also incorporating core concepts from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person Centered approaches. I believe to first start processing, we must build a strong foundation of skills and rapport.
(865) 674-4668 View (865) 674-4668
Photo of P.J. Alexander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
P.J. Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CT, CCTP, BCD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed therapist and hold specialty certifications in Grief/Thanantology (Association of Death Education and Counseling), Clinical Certified Trauma Professional (IATP) & EMDR Level II certification. I have worked with many clients following traumatic loss or those experiencing anxiety, depression, past or current abusive situations, post abortion stress syndrome (PASS), parenting special needs children, or chronic or life shortening illnesses. I also offer a monthly support group for those seeking healing after the suicide of a significant person in their life (see information in "groups" below)
I am a licensed therapist and hold specialty certifications in Grief/Thanantology (Association of Death Education and Counseling), Clinical Certified Trauma Professional (IATP) & EMDR Level II certification. I have worked with many clients following traumatic loss or those experiencing anxiety, depression, past or current abusive situations, post abortion stress syndrome (PASS), parenting special needs children, or chronic or life shortening illnesses. I also offer a monthly support group for those seeking healing after the suicide of a significant person in their life (see information in "groups" below)
(865) 498-9999 View (865) 498-9999
Photo of Matalyn Olvera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Matalyn Olvera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are on a journey toward self-compassion and living more fully as their authentic selves. Many individuals I work with have experienced early life trauma, religious trauma, social anxiety, overwhelm, or are in the middle of a life transition. We can work together to find helpful ways to gain more balance in your life. I offer sessions between 9am-2pm on weekdays EST.
I work with individuals who are on a journey toward self-compassion and living more fully as their authentic selves. Many individuals I work with have experienced early life trauma, religious trauma, social anxiety, overwhelm, or are in the middle of a life transition. We can work together to find helpful ways to gain more balance in your life. I offer sessions between 9am-2pm on weekdays EST.
(865) 234-4318 View (865) 234-4318
Photo of Knoxville Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Knoxville Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PLLC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Knoxville Counseling Services, PLLC is the premier private practice in Knoxville. We are a group of independent therapists dedicated to working with you and your family in order to improve your emotional health, your relationships, and your lives. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, or self-esteem? Are you adjusting to major transitions in your life (e.g., new baby, just moved to Knoxville, new job, trying to figure out what career you want, divorce)? Do you have a child or teenager who is struggling with behavioral or emotional issues? We have therapists to help you with all of these areas, and more.
Knoxville Counseling Services, PLLC is the premier private practice in Knoxville. We are a group of independent therapists dedicated to working with you and your family in order to improve your emotional health, your relationships, and your lives. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, or self-esteem? Are you adjusting to major transitions in your life (e.g., new baby, just moved to Knoxville, new job, trying to figure out what career you want, divorce)? Do you have a child or teenager who is struggling with behavioral or emotional issues? We have therapists to help you with all of these areas, and more.
(865) 383-8909 View (865) 383-8909
Photo of Ethel Ding, LPC Intern in Knoxville, TN
Ethel Ding
LPC Intern, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Perhaps you’ve caught yourself thinking “This isn’t what I thought my life to look like,” or “I’m better than this.” Maybe the thought that crossed your mind was as simple as “I need help.” Asking for help is not always easy, and it takes strength to acknowledge your vulnerabilities. Whatever the reason that has led you on a search for a therapist, I commend you for your courage in taking this life-changing step.
Perhaps you’ve caught yourself thinking “This isn’t what I thought my life to look like,” or “I’m better than this.” Maybe the thought that crossed your mind was as simple as “I need help.” Asking for help is not always easy, and it takes strength to acknowledge your vulnerabilities. Whatever the reason that has led you on a search for a therapist, I commend you for your courage in taking this life-changing step.
(865) 412-8422 View (865) 412-8422
Photo of Patricia Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Patricia Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one or beloved pet? Do you struggle with feelings of regret, guilt, or isolation? Well-intentioned messages from others may be to “just push through it” or "give it time." However, we are often left feeling alone and uncertain about how we are supposed to resume our relationships, careers and lives. For some, unresolved grief can lead to poor physical health and a lower quality of life. Grief is not a sign that you are unwell or unevolved. It means that you have loved and you wanted love to continue. Love and life beyond the loss is possible.
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one or beloved pet? Do you struggle with feelings of regret, guilt, or isolation? Well-intentioned messages from others may be to “just push through it” or "give it time." However, we are often left feeling alone and uncertain about how we are supposed to resume our relationships, careers and lives. For some, unresolved grief can lead to poor physical health and a lower quality of life. Grief is not a sign that you are unwell or unevolved. It means that you have loved and you wanted love to continue. Love and life beyond the loss is possible.
(865) 401-9756 View (865) 401-9756

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.