Therapists in Port Orchard, WA
Robin Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98367 (Online Only)
Clients will often say “I went to a therapist and they just sat there and listened and nodded.” I’m more than a listen and nod therapist; I would describe myself as an action-oriented and interactive therapist. I work with clients to identify strengths and focus on negative self-talk that is creating a stagnant or distressing situation. Whether you are trying to overcome anxiety, master depression, cope with grief or loss, or survive your child’s teen years you will reach your goals more rapidly by focusing on your strengths. Let's work together to define your new chapter and move you forward.
Clients will often say “I went to a therapist and they just sat there and listened and nodded.” I’m more than a listen and nod therapist; I would describe myself as an action-oriented and interactive therapist. I work with clients to identify strengths and focus on negative self-talk that is creating a stagnant or distressing situation. Whether you are trying to overcome anxiety, master depression, cope with grief or loss, or survive your child’s teen years you will reach your goals more rapidly by focusing on your strengths. Let's work together to define your new chapter and move you forward.
Dr. Sara Chan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (Online Only)
I am a Rehabilitation Psychologist specializing in neurorehabilitation & management of chronic medical illnesses. I offer telemedicine appointments in Washington State & PSYPACT-member states. I have additional expertise in providing individualized care to persons with complex injury or diseases affecting the brain or central nervous system. This can lead to more structured treatment plans. I can also offer more opportunities for participation with family members and loved ones.
I am a Rehabilitation Psychologist specializing in neurorehabilitation & management of chronic medical illnesses. I offer telemedicine appointments in Washington State & PSYPACT-member states. I have additional expertise in providing individualized care to persons with complex injury or diseases affecting the brain or central nervous system. This can lead to more structured treatment plans. I can also offer more opportunities for participation with family members and loved ones.
Ileara Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367 (Online Only)
Greetings! It's fantastic that you're considering me as a potential match for your therapeutic needs. Navigating the search for a therapist can be daunting, but you're handling it wonderfully. Why the praise? Because you've recognized the importance of addressing your concerns with a professional. Whether you're dealing with general life challenges, family or relationship issues, task paralysis, overthinking, or trauma, your progress to this point is noteworthy.
Greetings! It's fantastic that you're considering me as a potential match for your therapeutic needs. Navigating the search for a therapist can be daunting, but you're handling it wonderfully. Why the praise? Because you've recognized the importance of addressing your concerns with a professional. Whether you're dealing with general life challenges, family or relationship issues, task paralysis, overthinking, or trauma, your progress to this point is noteworthy.
Kipp D Trembley
Counselor, MA, MATP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and fundamentally client-centered, I believe in an inherent tendency and ability for people to grow and learn about themselves and the world around them. I also believe each one of us has an inner wisdom to tap into. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience. I meet you where you are at, conforming my therapeutic approach to your presenting needs.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and fundamentally client-centered, I believe in an inherent tendency and ability for people to grow and learn about themselves and the world around them. I also believe each one of us has an inner wisdom to tap into. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience. I meet you where you are at, conforming my therapeutic approach to your presenting needs.
Wade Walter, MA, LMHC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, BC-TMH, CCATP, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367 (Online Only)
I have over 36 years of broad and rich experience in the mental health field. Anxiety and mood disorders as well as personality disorders are a particular area of specialization for me. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Provider (CSTIP) and specialize also in treatment of Personality Disorders. My clients achieve rapid results through exploration of how their thoughts effect their emotional experiences. My theoretical orientation is Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness techniques also important to my work with clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I have over 36 years of broad and rich experience in the mental health field. Anxiety and mood disorders as well as personality disorders are a particular area of specialization for me. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Provider (CSTIP) and specialize also in treatment of Personality Disorders. My clients achieve rapid results through exploration of how their thoughts effect their emotional experiences. My theoretical orientation is Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness techniques also important to my work with clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
Northwest Therapy Group, PLLC - Tara Celletti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
My name is Tara Celletti and I am a licensed independent associate clinical social worker. I grew up in Southern California, where I was exposed to therapy practices at an early age by my grandmother. In 2021, I followed in my grandmother’s footsteps and received a Masters in Social Work from University of Southern California. I moved to Washington in 2014 where I now live with my husband and our three rescue dogs.
My name is Tara Celletti and I am a licensed independent associate clinical social worker. I grew up in Southern California, where I was exposed to therapy practices at an early age by my grandmother. In 2021, I followed in my grandmother’s footsteps and received a Masters in Social Work from University of Southern California. I moved to Washington in 2014 where I now live with my husband and our three rescue dogs.
Sarah Pence
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367
Everyone no matter who they are are able to move past the darkness and trauma of their past, I am here to help rebuild and reshape thoughts and behaviors that have kept you in the dark. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve their best version of themselves. Reaching out for help is the hardest step in therapy a person can take. By having an open mind and free space to help clients feel safe to express past traumas is essential to build a foundation to become the version each person has the right to show the world.
Everyone no matter who they are are able to move past the darkness and trauma of their past, I am here to help rebuild and reshape thoughts and behaviors that have kept you in the dark. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve their best version of themselves. Reaching out for help is the hardest step in therapy a person can take. By having an open mind and free space to help clients feel safe to express past traumas is essential to build a foundation to become the version each person has the right to show the world.
Latoya N Belgrave Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367
I am a highly skilled professional in the human behavioral management field with over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered with a focus on helping individuals, businesses and other organizations to have the most positive experience in many different settings. I have a depth of experience in micro, mezzo, and macro level practice and strategic interventions in healthcare.
I am a highly skilled professional in the human behavioral management field with over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach is client-centered with a focus on helping individuals, businesses and other organizations to have the most positive experience in many different settings. I have a depth of experience in micro, mezzo, and macro level practice and strategic interventions in healthcare.
Peter Elliot Thomas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My goal as your therapist is to help you develop a deep sense of your authentic self, and to cultivate your own strength and confidence in your ability to handle what life throws at you. We will work together primarily through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS), an intuitive and evidence-based approach to therapy. Have you ever used the phrase "Part of me feels..." to describe an internal conflict? IFS takes the idea of "parts" and provides a framework for healing the wounded parts of yourself. By approaching these "parts" with compassion and understanding, we create new space for you to live your life free of old burdens.
My goal as your therapist is to help you develop a deep sense of your authentic self, and to cultivate your own strength and confidence in your ability to handle what life throws at you. We will work together primarily through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS), an intuitive and evidence-based approach to therapy. Have you ever used the phrase "Part of me feels..." to describe an internal conflict? IFS takes the idea of "parts" and provides a framework for healing the wounded parts of yourself. By approaching these "parts" with compassion and understanding, we create new space for you to live your life free of old burdens.
Glenda DeMatty
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC, MHP, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You are welcome here. Alder Wellness & Counseling, PLLC is named for the alder tree, a tree native to the Pacific Northwest known for its strength and balance, bridging and grounding. Often, our sense of well-being relies on finding balance in our lives. Emotional health is closely linked with physical and spiritual health. Sometimes, our well-being is thrown out of balance because of traumatic events, whether recent or from long ago. My goal is to help you find balance in your life in an individualized and holistic way.
You are welcome here. Alder Wellness & Counseling, PLLC is named for the alder tree, a tree native to the Pacific Northwest known for its strength and balance, bridging and grounding. Often, our sense of well-being relies on finding balance in our lives. Emotional health is closely linked with physical and spiritual health. Sometimes, our well-being is thrown out of balance because of traumatic events, whether recent or from long ago. My goal is to help you find balance in your life in an individualized and holistic way.
N.W. Family Recovery Solutions
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, PhD (c)
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Cesario Larios, MA, LMHCA holds a master’s degree in Psychology, as well is a Clinical Psychology PsyD doctoral student at Antioch University Seattle. He is in his fifth year of training, which has encompassed both evidence based applications for therapy as well as psychological and forensic assessments. At NW Family Recovery Solutions, Cesario provides psychological assessments for those suffering from these co-occurring disorders, which is often helpful for understanding each client’s unique challenges and how best to achieve remission of both substance abuse and mental illness.
Cesario Larios, MA, LMHCA holds a master’s degree in Psychology, as well is a Clinical Psychology PsyD doctoral student at Antioch University Seattle. He is in his fifth year of training, which has encompassed both evidence based applications for therapy as well as psychological and forensic assessments. At NW Family Recovery Solutions, Cesario provides psychological assessments for those suffering from these co-occurring disorders, which is often helpful for understanding each client’s unique challenges and how best to achieve remission of both substance abuse and mental illness.
15 Second Videos
Emily Munn
Tanya Murdock Lewis
Sunny Jansma-Simon
Christy E Fuller
CW Counseling Services, PLLC
Tricia Richards
Patrick Graves
Counselor, BS, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
22 Apr 24- Taking new clients-Poulsbo or Port Orchard. Couples, Adults, Men, Women, or teens. Humanistic, client-centered, flexible, solution & a strengths based approach. Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Relationships, Addictions, Men's issues - change YOU want is my priority. When people feel respected and encouraged, they can grow in confidence and effectiveness. Our work will be tailored for meaningful, enduring change in any circumstance. Using CBT, REBT, acceptance (ACT) plus a combination of contemporary, innovative modalities to build resilience and courage to face change. Christian counseling available. LGBTQ friendly.
22 Apr 24- Taking new clients-Poulsbo or Port Orchard. Couples, Adults, Men, Women, or teens. Humanistic, client-centered, flexible, solution & a strengths based approach. Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Relationships, Addictions, Men's issues - change YOU want is my priority. When people feel respected and encouraged, they can grow in confidence and effectiveness. Our work will be tailored for meaningful, enduring change in any circumstance. Using CBT, REBT, acceptance (ACT) plus a combination of contemporary, innovative modalities to build resilience and courage to face change. Christian counseling available. LGBTQ friendly.
Kipp D Trembley
Counselor, MA, MATP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I meet with individuals, couples, families, and run groups. I generally work with folks who complain of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, anger management, trauma/PTSD, interpersonal conflict, parenting challenges, spiritual challenges, frustration tolerance, and some health challenges to include nicotine addiction. I also provide in-home nursing-aid care, DD respite care, and tutoring. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience
I meet with individuals, couples, families, and run groups. I generally work with folks who complain of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, anger management, trauma/PTSD, interpersonal conflict, parenting challenges, spiritual challenges, frustration tolerance, and some health challenges to include nicotine addiction. I also provide in-home nursing-aid care, DD respite care, and tutoring. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience
Victoria Tierney
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367
Hello! During this uncertain time, I am taking new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. You can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
Hello! During this uncertain time, I am taking new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. You can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
Calming Heart Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MHP, CCTP-1
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults in crisis in our community, schools, and hospital settings. I understand how scary it is to start therapy and I’m here to help you through unexpected life stressors. It can be difficult to untangle your thoughts, feelings, and emotions alone; while trying to identify goals in order to heal. In building a strong therapeutic relationship;I support your healing process through an empathic, calm and direct manner to support you and your journey.
I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults in crisis in our community, schools, and hospital settings. I understand how scary it is to start therapy and I’m here to help you through unexpected life stressors. It can be difficult to untangle your thoughts, feelings, and emotions alone; while trying to identify goals in order to heal. In building a strong therapeutic relationship;I support your healing process through an empathic, calm and direct manner to support you and your journey.
Karina Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367 (Online Only)
'Hope' (noun): To desire with expectation of obtainment or fulfillment; to expect with confidence. What do you hope for? I think deep down we all hope for similar things; peace, joy, love, excitement, and fulfilling relationships. When we experience depression, anxiety, trauma, stressful life circumstances, parenting challenges or relationship difficulties we can end up feeling hopeless and alone. My goal as a therapist is to help you rediscover your hopes and dreams and make a plan to achieve them! I will do this by providing a safe space to process what has gotten in your way and helping you identify what changes can be made.
'Hope' (noun): To desire with expectation of obtainment or fulfillment; to expect with confidence. What do you hope for? I think deep down we all hope for similar things; peace, joy, love, excitement, and fulfilling relationships. When we experience depression, anxiety, trauma, stressful life circumstances, parenting challenges or relationship difficulties we can end up feeling hopeless and alone. My goal as a therapist is to help you rediscover your hopes and dreams and make a plan to achieve them! I will do this by providing a safe space to process what has gotten in your way and helping you identify what changes can be made.
Christine Thurston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (Online Only)
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
All people experience problems and at times we all need someone that we can trust to assist us with those challenges. As a therapist, my approach is accepting, empathetic, and flexible, and I strive to form a relationship with my clients that is built on trust and respect. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients, together identifying the growth and change that they desire for their lives. I work to help my clients uncover their internal resources and strengths and expand their understanding of their experiences in order to empower them to make the changes that they desire.
Akudi Therapy Practice PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (Online Only)
I work with Adults and youth (+13) and thrive most when I am serving queer and trans communities and black and brown communities. My hope is to support folks process different struggles coming up in their lives. I provide LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health therapy and I bring an afrocentric perspective into my work as a way to work towards decolonizing our minds and bodies in the way we think. I provide support around topics such as anxiety, depression, trauma, race, gender, sexuality, navigating relationships, navigating interpersonal conflicts, and life changes.
I work with Adults and youth (+13) and thrive most when I am serving queer and trans communities and black and brown communities. My hope is to support folks process different struggles coming up in their lives. I provide LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health therapy and I bring an afrocentric perspective into my work as a way to work towards decolonizing our minds and bodies in the way we think. I provide support around topics such as anxiety, depression, trauma, race, gender, sexuality, navigating relationships, navigating interpersonal conflicts, and life changes.
Alexa Farris
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Ready to make a change, but not sure where to begin? Help is available! I am a mental health and substance use counselor based in Kitsap County and providing telehealth services throughout Washington. I work primarily with adults and teenagers ages 13+. I can help you address a variety of issues, including substance abuse and addiction (including nicotine/tobacco use), depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, self-harm, grief, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I do offer letters for gender-affirming care. I currently have a 1-2 month waitlist for new clients.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Ready to make a change, but not sure where to begin? Help is available! I am a mental health and substance use counselor based in Kitsap County and providing telehealth services throughout Washington. I work primarily with adults and teenagers ages 13+. I can help you address a variety of issues, including substance abuse and addiction (including nicotine/tobacco use), depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, self-harm, grief, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I do offer letters for gender-affirming care. I currently have a 1-2 month waitlist for new clients.
Northwest Therapy Group, PLLC - Maxie Pape
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Welcome, I am glad you made it! My name is Maxie. I am a clinician inside of Northwest Therapy Group. I have found a love of working alongside individuals who find themselves struggling with finding purpose and identity. Whether you are a new parent working your way back to yourself (or your partner), a teen struggling with depression, anxiety, or finding your sense of self, or maybe you're someone who struggles with grief and loss, I am ready to walk with you through it.
Welcome, I am glad you made it! My name is Maxie. I am a clinician inside of Northwest Therapy Group. I have found a love of working alongside individuals who find themselves struggling with finding purpose and identity. Whether you are a new parent working your way back to yourself (or your partner), a teen struggling with depression, anxiety, or finding your sense of self, or maybe you're someone who struggles with grief and loss, I am ready to walk with you through it.
See more therapy options for Port Orchard
Nearby Searches for Port Orchard
- Bainbridge Island
- Belfair
- Bremerton
- Burien
- Des Moines
- Gig Harbor
- Normandy Park
- Olalla
- Ruston
- Seatac
- Silverdale
- Vashon
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Port Orchard, WA
90+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in Port Orchard, WA who prioritize treating:
93% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
78% | Self Esteem |
77% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Stress |
66% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Premera |
65% | Aetna |
62% | Regence |
How Therapists in Port Orchard, WA see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Port Orchard?
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
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.
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.
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.