Therapists in Chestnut Hill, MA

Photo of Pamela Willsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Pamela Willsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Girls of all ages and stages of life seek guidance, empowerment, resilience, and self-assurance on life's journey and yearn for strategies to do so. Pam Willsey, a licensed therapist and ICF-certified life coach, understands these unique challenges. Her tailored approach, shaped by clinical experience and parental wisdom, has helped girls the world over through life’s challenges for over 25 years. Pam is also the author of "Packing For Success, A Thrival Guide For Young Women Navigating Life’s Transitions," a valuable guide to empowering girls and young women with strategies for self-confidence, personal growth, and resilience.
Girls of all ages and stages of life seek guidance, empowerment, resilience, and self-assurance on life's journey and yearn for strategies to do so. Pam Willsey, a licensed therapist and ICF-certified life coach, understands these unique challenges. Her tailored approach, shaped by clinical experience and parental wisdom, has helped girls the world over through life’s challenges for over 25 years. Pam is also the author of "Packing For Success, A Thrival Guide For Young Women Navigating Life’s Transitions," a valuable guide to empowering girls and young women with strategies for self-confidence, personal growth, and resilience.
(617) 612-4375 View (617) 612-4375
Photo of Linda Gross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Linda Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy and have worked with adults affected by persistent mental illness, young adults who received political asylum in the U.S. as survivors of torture and individuals and couples managing life challenges and transitions. I earned a Masters degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and completed post- graduate training at the Institute for Clinical Social Work. I bring prior professional experience as a teacher who worked closely with undergraduate students on finding their own voice.
I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy and have worked with adults affected by persistent mental illness, young adults who received political asylum in the U.S. as survivors of torture and individuals and couples managing life challenges and transitions. I earned a Masters degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and completed post- graduate training at the Institute for Clinical Social Work. I bring prior professional experience as a teacher who worked closely with undergraduate students on finding their own voice.
(508) 794-7563 View (508) 794-7563
Photo of Becky Duddy-Burke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Becky Duddy-Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
I received my Masters in Social Work from Boston College in 1995. I specialize in helping clients who present with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and environmental stressors. I work with clients who are LGBTQ+, straight, or cisgender. I strive to provide a safe environment in which clients can explore problematic areas which inhibit personal growth, work toward creating either change or acceptance regarding feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and to identify patterns that are no longer useful. I derive deep fulfillment as a therapist, and consider it a privilege to be a trusted participant on one's journey.
I received my Masters in Social Work from Boston College in 1995. I specialize in helping clients who present with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and environmental stressors. I work with clients who are LGBTQ+, straight, or cisgender. I strive to provide a safe environment in which clients can explore problematic areas which inhibit personal growth, work toward creating either change or acceptance regarding feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and to identify patterns that are no longer useful. I derive deep fulfillment as a therapist, and consider it a privilege to be a trusted participant on one's journey.
(617) 340-5601 View (617) 340-5601
Photo of John D Otis, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
John D Otis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
I have over 23 years of experience in providing evidence-based treatment for adults and teens who have conditions including anxiety disorders (panic disorder, OCD, generalized anxiety), depression, and chronic pain. I completed my graduate training at the University of Florida in 2000 and I have been practicing in Boston since 2002. I am a Research Associate Professor at Boston University in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences where I teach graduate courses in psychology.
I have over 23 years of experience in providing evidence-based treatment for adults and teens who have conditions including anxiety disorders (panic disorder, OCD, generalized anxiety), depression, and chronic pain. I completed my graduate training at the University of Florida in 2000 and I have been practicing in Boston since 2002. I am a Research Associate Professor at Boston University in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences where I teach graduate courses in psychology.
(617) 433-5360 View (617) 433-5360
Photo of Elizabeth Conward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Elizabeth Conward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Elizabeth Conward, I am a licensed clinical social worker in both the states of Massachusetts and Florida. Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and at times unbearable. The great news is that if you are seeking relief from your day-to-day challenges, open to learning new coping mechanisms and open to change, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. My approach is to offer personalized, compassionate, and nonjudgmental support. I believe in empowering my patients and equipping them with the proper tools to appropriately deal with life events, reduce stress, and experience personal growth.
Welcome! I am Elizabeth Conward, I am a licensed clinical social worker in both the states of Massachusetts and Florida. Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and at times unbearable. The great news is that if you are seeking relief from your day-to-day challenges, open to learning new coping mechanisms and open to change, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. My approach is to offer personalized, compassionate, and nonjudgmental support. I believe in empowering my patients and equipping them with the proper tools to appropriately deal with life events, reduce stress, and experience personal growth.
(857) 256-3169 View (857) 256-3169
Photo of Gridth Ablon, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Gridth Ablon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Is your child struggling, anxious, or depressed? Are you unhappy in your life, in your relationships, or in your work? Are you held back by sadness, anxiety, or lack of fulfillment? Are you unable to take action? I am experienced in working with people to overcome these problems in their or their children's lives. People who work with me greatly appreciate the improvement in their lives and the understanding they gain about their difficulties.
Is your child struggling, anxious, or depressed? Are you unhappy in your life, in your relationships, or in your work? Are you held back by sadness, anxiety, or lack of fulfillment? Are you unable to take action? I am experienced in working with people to overcome these problems in their or their children's lives. People who work with me greatly appreciate the improvement in their lives and the understanding they gain about their difficulties.
(617) 340-8731 x2 View (617) 340-8731 x2
Photo of Leah Dittman, Counselor in Chestnut Hill, MA
Leah Dittman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Our progress and personal development is often riddled with overwhelming challenges that can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it’s helpful to have someone be with you while you’re trying to move forward. Everyone reaches out for help for different reasons; maybe you’re interested in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, or finding yourself wondering if you can move on from an unbearable heartbreak. Therapy is truly a collaborative effort, and it is my hope that we can cultivate a space that encourages reflection, personal growth, and forward direction.
Our progress and personal development is often riddled with overwhelming challenges that can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it’s helpful to have someone be with you while you’re trying to move forward. Everyone reaches out for help for different reasons; maybe you’re interested in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, or finding yourself wondering if you can move on from an unbearable heartbreak. Therapy is truly a collaborative effort, and it is my hope that we can cultivate a space that encourages reflection, personal growth, and forward direction.
(617) 765-1663 View (617) 765-1663
Photo of Nikki Pollard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Nikki Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients for short-term therapy only. Cycle of Perseverance was established to provide counseling, support, and hope to those who have experienced oppression in any form. For so many the path to fulfillment has involved a series of roadblocks and detours. If this resonates with you, you are not alone. Keep going. You can grow through what you are going through. Allow me to assist on your journey. Together we will identify new paths.
Currently accepting new patients for short-term therapy only. Cycle of Perseverance was established to provide counseling, support, and hope to those who have experienced oppression in any form. For so many the path to fulfillment has involved a series of roadblocks and detours. If this resonates with you, you are not alone. Keep going. You can grow through what you are going through. Allow me to assist on your journey. Together we will identify new paths.
(617) 271-2768 View (617) 271-2768
Photo of Nyssa Wittliff Boardman, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Nyssa Wittliff Boardman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
(857) 422-7528 View (857) 422-7528
Photo of Robin E Gomolin, Counselor in Chestnut Hill, MA
Robin E Gomolin
Counselor, PSYAD, FABP
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
If you have difficulty with professional or academic advancement, establishing or sustaining intimate relationships-if habitual behavioral patterns (i.e. inhibitions, anxiety, impulsiveness, lack of assertion or self-esteem) are interfering with achieving your goals, speaking with a therapist can help you discover why. I am an experienced clinician with extensive training in psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I see adults in weekly psychotherapy and multiple sessions per week are available to individuals interested in engaging in a deeper therapeutic dialogue.
If you have difficulty with professional or academic advancement, establishing or sustaining intimate relationships-if habitual behavioral patterns (i.e. inhibitions, anxiety, impulsiveness, lack of assertion or self-esteem) are interfering with achieving your goals, speaking with a therapist can help you discover why. I am an experienced clinician with extensive training in psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I see adults in weekly psychotherapy and multiple sessions per week are available to individuals interested in engaging in a deeper therapeutic dialogue.
(617) 941-4293 View (617) 941-4293
Photo of Dr Jim Donovan, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Dr Jim Donovan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
I specialize equally in couple and individual treatment. For the latter I work w people who have self-esteem and relationship issues. I have been in practice 30 plus yrs and try to offer each person. each hour the attention and warmth they deserve. I want to contribute to my field in other ways too. I have founded and co direct a teaching program in short term treatment at a Harvard Medical school affiliated HMO. I have published 3 books and 20 articles about learning Psychotherapy. My office is adjacent to Boston College in Newton.
I specialize equally in couple and individual treatment. For the latter I work w people who have self-esteem and relationship issues. I have been in practice 30 plus yrs and try to offer each person. each hour the attention and warmth they deserve. I want to contribute to my field in other ways too. I have founded and co direct a teaching program in short term treatment at a Harvard Medical school affiliated HMO. I have published 3 books and 20 articles about learning Psychotherapy. My office is adjacent to Boston College in Newton.
(617) 340-7606 View (617) 340-7606
Photo of Lois S. Eichler, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Lois S. Eichler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
I work with individuals, couples and families, focusing on their interpersonal problems. I try to trace their origins in order to help my clients not repeat destructive old patterns of behavior. I maintain a positive attitude towards my client's lives and their futures and I support self acceptance and optimism.
I work with individuals, couples and families, focusing on their interpersonal problems. I try to trace their origins in order to help my clients not repeat destructive old patterns of behavior. I maintain a positive attitude towards my client's lives and their futures and I support self acceptance and optimism.
(617) 607-4982 View (617) 607-4982
Photo of Jessica Finnegan, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Jessica Finnegan
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Imagine a life where struggles become steppingstones and every hurdle leads to personal growth. I understand that the process of seeking and coming to therapy is not an easy one and that the vulnerability of therapy can be intimidating. It can be difficult to step into vulnerability in a world that equates vulnerability with weakness. I hope to help you redefine strength, as I believe most healing comes from raw, unfiltered moments of self-reflection and honesty; it is through seeking help to heal that courage is displayed.
Imagine a life where struggles become steppingstones and every hurdle leads to personal growth. I understand that the process of seeking and coming to therapy is not an easy one and that the vulnerability of therapy can be intimidating. It can be difficult to step into vulnerability in a world that equates vulnerability with weakness. I hope to help you redefine strength, as I believe most healing comes from raw, unfiltered moments of self-reflection and honesty; it is through seeking help to heal that courage is displayed.
(617) 683-1906 View (617) 683-1906
Photo of Dr. Sonia Ufano, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Dr. Sonia Ufano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
I know that choosing a therapist is a difficult task and that embarking in a therapeutic treatment requires a lot of courage. I am certain that the warm, and nonjudgmental environment that I provide will help you feel safe and supported as you explore the problems that interfere with the way that you want to live your life.
I know that choosing a therapist is a difficult task and that embarking in a therapeutic treatment requires a lot of courage. I am certain that the warm, and nonjudgmental environment that I provide will help you feel safe and supported as you explore the problems that interfere with the way that you want to live your life.
(781) 630-4361 View (781) 630-4361
Photo of Restorative Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Restorative Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with a major life transition, negative body image or stuck in a fight/flight/freeze response in your relationships with others? I specialize in helping clients navigate life transitions such as divorce, caretaking burnout, grief/loss, empty nest, midlife health and hormonal challenges, body image, fatigue and recover from toxic or narcissistic relationships. I can help you to feel grounded and whole again. I have 25 years of experience working with high sensitivity, PTSD, narcissistic abuse, women's health and wellness, and mind-body solutions.
Are you struggling with a major life transition, negative body image or stuck in a fight/flight/freeze response in your relationships with others? I specialize in helping clients navigate life transitions such as divorce, caretaking burnout, grief/loss, empty nest, midlife health and hormonal challenges, body image, fatigue and recover from toxic or narcissistic relationships. I can help you to feel grounded and whole again. I have 25 years of experience working with high sensitivity, PTSD, narcissistic abuse, women's health and wellness, and mind-body solutions.
(857) 763-4126 View (857) 763-4126
Photo of Lilly Kesner, LMHC, Counselor in Chestnut Hill, MA
Lilly Kesner, LMHC
Counselor, BS, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Not Accepting New Clients. I believe personal growth, emotional healing, and creating lasting, positive changes in your life are possible. I draw from both personal and professional experience to provide mental health counseling for individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use/abuse. Through collaborative talk therapy, I aim to support you in your process of gaining awareness of underlying issues contributing to current symptoms, as well as improving your ability to manage those symptoms.
Not Accepting New Clients. I believe personal growth, emotional healing, and creating lasting, positive changes in your life are possible. I draw from both personal and professional experience to provide mental health counseling for individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use/abuse. Through collaborative talk therapy, I aim to support you in your process of gaining awareness of underlying issues contributing to current symptoms, as well as improving your ability to manage those symptoms.
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Photo of Sunrise Psychotherapy Services, LLC / Dr. Valcin, Psychologist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Sunrise Psychotherapy Services, LLC / Dr. Valcin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having trouble adjusting to changes in your life? Are you wanting to improve your relationships with others? Do you have recurring thoughts or memories that cause distress or past experiences that still impact you today? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, let's set up an appointment to continue your journey towards wellness.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having trouble adjusting to changes in your life? Are you wanting to improve your relationships with others? Do you have recurring thoughts or memories that cause distress or past experiences that still impact you today? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, let's set up an appointment to continue your journey towards wellness.
(617) 286-2792 View (617) 286-2792
Chestnut Hill Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
I have 20 years of experience as a mental health clinician. I provide therapy to identify solutions to change and challenges you are experiencing. In addition, I offer consultation to students and young adults managing anxiety, depression, academic pressure, and interpersonal conflict. In a collaborative and integrative approach, I employ a variety of therapy modalities, including Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based practice (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I have 20 years of experience as a mental health clinician. I provide therapy to identify solutions to change and challenges you are experiencing. In addition, I offer consultation to students and young adults managing anxiety, depression, academic pressure, and interpersonal conflict. In a collaborative and integrative approach, I employ a variety of therapy modalities, including Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based practice (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
(617) 539-2677 View (617) 539-2677
Photo of Katie Hillman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Katie Hillman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
There are many reasons why we might find ourselves looking for a therapist. Perhaps there is a change in our lives and we need support managing it. Maybe we need help finding new strategies and tools for handling overwhelming emotions. Sometimes we might want to grow as a person or make a change, but need support or new skills to get there. Whatever your reason, it’s valid and important.   I work with individual adults, kids, as well as couples who want the help of an outside partner to grow, learn, thrive, and live their best lives.
There are many reasons why we might find ourselves looking for a therapist. Perhaps there is a change in our lives and we need support managing it. Maybe we need help finding new strategies and tools for handling overwhelming emotions. Sometimes we might want to grow as a person or make a change, but need support or new skills to get there. Whatever your reason, it’s valid and important.   I work with individual adults, kids, as well as couples who want the help of an outside partner to grow, learn, thrive, and live their best lives.
(781) 219-0247 View (781) 219-0247
Photo of Jill Cowie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chestnut Hill, MA
Jill Cowie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Everyone needs and deserves support especially when facing challenging life transitions and loss. Jill provides a holistic approach to therapy for those experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, relationship and identity challenges, trauma, and addiction. She provides evidence-based psychological treatments for adults, teenagers, and pre-teens using Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and depending on each client's needs, individualized spiritual resourcing, and the framework of post-traumatic growth.
Everyone needs and deserves support especially when facing challenging life transitions and loss. Jill provides a holistic approach to therapy for those experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, relationship and identity challenges, trauma, and addiction. She provides evidence-based psychological treatments for adults, teenagers, and pre-teens using Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and depending on each client's needs, individualized spiritual resourcing, and the framework of post-traumatic growth.
(617) 812-4894 View (617) 812-4894

See more therapy options for Chestnut Hill

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chestnut Hill, MA

70+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Chestnut Hill, MA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
71% Life Transitions
70% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

57% BlueCross and BlueShield
46% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
46% Optum

How Therapists in Chestnut Hill, MA see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chestnut Hill?

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.