Therapists in Long Beach, CA

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Photo of Carrie Weiner, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Weiner
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I entered this field because I want to help people experience more joy, connection, and freedom in their lives. Life is going to hand us difficult things and some of us carry extra burdens. Often, we get stuck. Some of us need to get out of our own way. Others need to redirect away from the destructive patterns we keep repeating. Or maybe we just need guidance in finding solutions that will bring us some relief from the struggles we feel trapped beneath. There are ALWAYS new skills we can learn and action we can make to improve the quality of our experiences and outcomes. Sometimes we can’t or shouldn’t do this work alone.
I entered this field because I want to help people experience more joy, connection, and freedom in their lives. Life is going to hand us difficult things and some of us carry extra burdens. Often, we get stuck. Some of us need to get out of our own way. Others need to redirect away from the destructive patterns we keep repeating. Or maybe we just need guidance in finding solutions that will bring us some relief from the struggles we feel trapped beneath. There are ALWAYS new skills we can learn and action we can make to improve the quality of our experiences and outcomes. Sometimes we can’t or shouldn’t do this work alone.
(562) 669-4577 View (562) 669-4577
Photo of Michael Hass, PhD, LEP, LPCC, MFT
Michael Hass
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LEP, LPCC, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
My goal is to help children, adolescents, and families function more successfully in school and life. My approach is both collaborative and strength-focused. I have over 35 years of experience as a school psychologist and psychotherapist, and I hold licenses in California as an educational psychologist, marriage and family therapist, and professional clinical counselor. I provide psychotherapy, psychoeducational evaluations, and consultation to parents regarding special education.
My goal is to help children, adolescents, and families function more successfully in school and life. My approach is both collaborative and strength-focused. I have over 35 years of experience as a school psychologist and psychotherapist, and I hold licenses in California as an educational psychologist, marriage and family therapist, and professional clinical counselor. I provide psychotherapy, psychoeducational evaluations, and consultation to parents regarding special education.
(562) 280-2344 View (562) 280-2344
Photo of Beth Sullivan, PsyD, Psychologist
Beth Sullivan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
It is not easy to recognize when you might need help, and even harder to reach out to others during difficult times. I am sensitive to the difficulty of the therapy process and do my best to honor each person individually. Being culturally sensitive and competent in meeting the diverse needs of all of my clients is one of my biggest values as a psychologist. I value social justice and this informs my work immensely.
It is not easy to recognize when you might need help, and even harder to reach out to others during difficult times. I am sensitive to the difficulty of the therapy process and do my best to honor each person individually. Being culturally sensitive and competent in meeting the diverse needs of all of my clients is one of my biggest values as a psychologist. I value social justice and this informs my work immensely.
(562) 733-3629 View (562) 733-3629
Photo of Sandy L. Kaufmann, LMFT, CAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandy L. Kaufmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
(562) 669-4595 View (562) 669-4595
Photo of Lynda Paulson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynda Paulson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MSW from Long Beach State University) and have been practicing for over 15 years.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MSW from Long Beach State University) and have been practicing for over 15 years.
(424) 436-3677 View (424) 436-3677
Photo of Josh Jacobs, MA, LMFT, LPCC, CAADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Josh Jacobs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804
Not accepting new clients
I am a gay identified clinician who provides psychotherapy for both Individuals and couples. My primary clinical approach is heavily informed by third-wave Cognitive Behavior therapies (CBT) which incorporate the newest advances in western therapeutic thought and are highly effective in treating a variety of issues. These therapies include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy. I have received advanced training in these approaches and have been using them in my clinical practice since 2007.
I am a gay identified clinician who provides psychotherapy for both Individuals and couples. My primary clinical approach is heavily informed by third-wave Cognitive Behavior therapies (CBT) which incorporate the newest advances in western therapeutic thought and are highly effective in treating a variety of issues. These therapies include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy. I have received advanced training in these approaches and have been using them in my clinical practice since 2007.
(562) 376-5851 View (562) 376-5851
Photo of Lori A Tyler, MOB, PhD, Psychologist
Lori A Tyler
Psychologist, MOB, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
"Seeking out a therapist and entering therapy can sometimes be an intimidating prospect. My goal as a therapist is to create a therapeutic environment that puts a client at ease and supports self-exploration in a safe, comfortable atmosphere. A client's desire for growth and change is a very personal journey and I believe in an individualized approach that supports each person's expressed need. Life is littered with suffering in different forms and I want to aid my clients in developing a deeper understanding of this suffering and meaning to what may feel meaningless."
"Seeking out a therapist and entering therapy can sometimes be an intimidating prospect. My goal as a therapist is to create a therapeutic environment that puts a client at ease and supports self-exploration in a safe, comfortable atmosphere. A client's desire for growth and change is a very personal journey and I believe in an individualized approach that supports each person's expressed need. Life is littered with suffering in different forms and I want to aid my clients in developing a deeper understanding of this suffering and meaning to what may feel meaningless."
(562) 354-8134 View (562) 354-8134
Photo of Carmen Shelbrack, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmen Shelbrack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
I am here as a safe and inviting collaborator, let’s work together to address life difficulties nonjudgmentally. My role is to assist you in your process, supporting you in navigating your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. I am passionate about wellness and plan to join you with genuine curiosity and address any difficulties with mental health symptoms, shame and guilt, phases of life, relationships, grief, sense of self, disconnection, decision-making, anxiety, depression, and more.
I am here as a safe and inviting collaborator, let’s work together to address life difficulties nonjudgmentally. My role is to assist you in your process, supporting you in navigating your experiences and empowering you to apply the insights gained in therapy to your life. I am passionate about wellness and plan to join you with genuine curiosity and address any difficulties with mental health symptoms, shame and guilt, phases of life, relationships, grief, sense of self, disconnection, decision-making, anxiety, depression, and more.
(424) 788-5610 View (424) 788-5610
Photo of Claudia Williams, MSW, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claudia Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
“We grow through what we have gone through” Let’s be honest, life is tough, especially when trying to maintain a work/life balance and forget all the pain we have experienced in the past. Black men and women have their own unique set of challenges, but one commonality is the societal pressures, the weight of expectations, and the layers of individual and generational traumas that leave us confused, hurt, scared, and seeking answers. Despite these feelings you are experiencing, always remember, you still have the ability to control your own path even when things appear out of control.
“We grow through what we have gone through” Let’s be honest, life is tough, especially when trying to maintain a work/life balance and forget all the pain we have experienced in the past. Black men and women have their own unique set of challenges, but one commonality is the societal pressures, the weight of expectations, and the layers of individual and generational traumas that leave us confused, hurt, scared, and seeking answers. Despite these feelings you are experiencing, always remember, you still have the ability to control your own path even when things appear out of control.
(424) 359-1355 View (424) 359-1355
Photo of Cassandra Ortiz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra Ortiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I am glad you have come here with the desire and hope of wanting to promote your well-being. I understand it was probably not an easy decision to come to but I am more than willing to do my best to support you, whichever way I can. Often times, life circumstances cause us to develop a wide variety of symptoms that I like to consider as part of the human condition. Anxiety and depression are part of that human condition. I strongly believe life is a journey in which there is always room for growth. I want to help you find the tools you need to promote that growth you have been longing for.
I am glad you have come here with the desire and hope of wanting to promote your well-being. I understand it was probably not an easy decision to come to but I am more than willing to do my best to support you, whichever way I can. Often times, life circumstances cause us to develop a wide variety of symptoms that I like to consider as part of the human condition. Anxiety and depression are part of that human condition. I strongly believe life is a journey in which there is always room for growth. I want to help you find the tools you need to promote that growth you have been longing for.
(562) 274-7612 View (562) 274-7612
Photo of Bonnie Wise, PhD, Psychologist
Bonnie Wise
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I have been a licensed psychologist for 17 years and a licensed marriage and family therapist for 21 years. I provide a wide range of services including individual, marriage and family therapy. I also do parent coaching. I work with all ages and a wide variety of problems. I know it is difficult to choose a therapist, and I welcome your call to discuss if I would be a good fit. On this website you will find information on my background and my approach to therapy. I accept most insurance companies and private pay.
I have been a licensed psychologist for 17 years and a licensed marriage and family therapist for 21 years. I provide a wide range of services including individual, marriage and family therapy. I also do parent coaching. I work with all ages and a wide variety of problems. I know it is difficult to choose a therapist, and I welcome your call to discuss if I would be a good fit. On this website you will find information on my background and my approach to therapy. I accept most insurance companies and private pay.
(562) 206-1507 View (562) 206-1507
Photo of Lamar Broomfield, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lamar Broomfield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
The perfect client might have gone through tough times like trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship struggles. But together, we can dig into the roots of trauma, find hidden patterns, and set off on a life-changing journey towards emotional healing. Throughout this process, we'll rediscover joy, nurture relationships, and revitalize our overall well-being.
The perfect client might have gone through tough times like trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship struggles. But together, we can dig into the roots of trauma, find hidden patterns, and set off on a life-changing journey towards emotional healing. Throughout this process, we'll rediscover joy, nurture relationships, and revitalize our overall well-being.
(657) 571-3355 View (657) 571-3355
Photo of Bonavy A. Som-Keo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonavy A. Som-Keo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90805
My name is Bonavy Som-Keo. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of California. I have provided therapeutic services for 7 years in both non-profit and county organizations throughout my career. My approach I come from a background of utilizing CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused. I focus on you, the client, and what is happening to you at the moment. In addition to listening to what you're saying, I will make eye contact, watch body language, behavior, and tone of voice to be present with you and help you feel comfortable while you are describing personal situations that cause stress and mental health issues.
My name is Bonavy Som-Keo. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of California. I have provided therapeutic services for 7 years in both non-profit and county organizations throughout my career. My approach I come from a background of utilizing CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused. I focus on you, the client, and what is happening to you at the moment. In addition to listening to what you're saying, I will make eye contact, watch body language, behavior, and tone of voice to be present with you and help you feel comfortable while you are describing personal situations that cause stress and mental health issues.
(323) 379-1128 View (323) 379-1128
Photo of Kathleen Villagomez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Villagomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Congratulations for taking action! Sometimes we need to re-write our stories, change directions, or get back on track, before our lives are the way we desire, and more importantly the way we deserve. I offer a compassionate space for individuals to heal from past wounds, stop self-defeating and self-destructive patterns, increase self-awareness so that they may express themselves and make progress in their lives.
Congratulations for taking action! Sometimes we need to re-write our stories, change directions, or get back on track, before our lives are the way we desire, and more importantly the way we deserve. I offer a compassionate space for individuals to heal from past wounds, stop self-defeating and self-destructive patterns, increase self-awareness so that they may express themselves and make progress in their lives.
(562) 354-4414 View (562) 354-4414
Photo of Elliott H Maruffi-Cowley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elliott H Maruffi-Cowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step toward becoming your best you! My name is Elliott Maruffi-Cowley, CEO of Best You Practice, LLC. For the past 13 years I have been fortunate enough to assist a diverse population with taking control of their lives. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment or for more information please follow the link bellow. I am currently providing counseling services online via tele-therapy to individuals and couples in California and New York.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward becoming your best you! My name is Elliott Maruffi-Cowley, CEO of Best You Practice, LLC. For the past 13 years I have been fortunate enough to assist a diverse population with taking control of their lives. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment or for more information please follow the link bellow. I am currently providing counseling services online via tele-therapy to individuals and couples in California and New York.
(567) 229-9621 View (567) 229-9621
Photo of Sarah Ashley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Ashley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist at Olive Leaf Family Therapy, I specialize in working with relationship issues, marital and premarital counseling, and adult caregivers of elderly and aging parents. I use Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) in working with my couples. EFT has been shown to be 75% effective in treating couples and 90% report significant improvement in their relationship, nearly twice the success rate of other forms of couple’s therapy. In our EFT sessions, you should expect a focus on exploring your relationship dynamics, improving your emotional connection, and creating new and lasting meaning.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist at Olive Leaf Family Therapy, I specialize in working with relationship issues, marital and premarital counseling, and adult caregivers of elderly and aging parents. I use Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) in working with my couples. EFT has been shown to be 75% effective in treating couples and 90% report significant improvement in their relationship, nearly twice the success rate of other forms of couple’s therapy. In our EFT sessions, you should expect a focus on exploring your relationship dynamics, improving your emotional connection, and creating new and lasting meaning.
(562) 372-6599 View (562) 372-6599
Photo of Monique Nicol Robertson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monique Nicol Robertson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, or feeling stuck? Do you overthink or are overly critical of yourself and others? Do you seek perfection yet feel like you are failing? Do you feel unsatisfied, stuck in a procrastination cycle or unable to appreciate your accomplishments? Are you in a pattern of hoping external accomplishments or relationships meet your needs? These can be maladaptive responses of depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Are you struggling with anxiety, or feeling stuck? Do you overthink or are overly critical of yourself and others? Do you seek perfection yet feel like you are failing? Do you feel unsatisfied, stuck in a procrastination cycle or unable to appreciate your accomplishments? Are you in a pattern of hoping external accomplishments or relationships meet your needs? These can be maladaptive responses of depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(562) 534-1108 View (562) 534-1108
Photo of Aline Inocencio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aline Inocencio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
I find it beautiful when people are unapologetically who they are! I believe that our scars and deepest fears have a way in shaping us to be exactly who we are meant to be in this life, and on our journey to self-fulfillment. I hope to help you navigate life so that you find happiness in who you are. I'll meet you with gratitude for the opportunity, and trust that together we can work through the aspects of your life that hinder your ability to feel happy. Reiki III Master energy healer. Sou originalmente do Brasil, e ofereço sessōes de terapia em português.
I find it beautiful when people are unapologetically who they are! I believe that our scars and deepest fears have a way in shaping us to be exactly who we are meant to be in this life, and on our journey to self-fulfillment. I hope to help you navigate life so that you find happiness in who you are. I'll meet you with gratitude for the opportunity, and trust that together we can work through the aspects of your life that hinder your ability to feel happy. Reiki III Master energy healer. Sou originalmente do Brasil, e ofereço sessōes de terapia em português.
(562) 667-3056 View (562) 667-3056
Photo of Ellie Lipton, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Lipton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90806  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that leave you unfulfilled? Perhaps you are struggling to understand or embrace your full identity. Maybe you are going through a significant life transition. Or maybe you feel “off” and don’t know what to do about it. Therapy can be a powerful resource to reconnect to yourself, address a specific issue, explore your thoughts and emotions, and just get support for the challenges of life. Clients bring all sorts of challenges to our work – depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, body image challenges, sexuality questions, athlete specific issues, and more.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that leave you unfulfilled? Perhaps you are struggling to understand or embrace your full identity. Maybe you are going through a significant life transition. Or maybe you feel “off” and don’t know what to do about it. Therapy can be a powerful resource to reconnect to yourself, address a specific issue, explore your thoughts and emotions, and just get support for the challenges of life. Clients bring all sorts of challenges to our work – depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, body image challenges, sexuality questions, athlete specific issues, and more.
(310) 340-7983 View (310) 340-7983
Photo of Toni Gooden, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Toni Gooden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
What is your path, your desires or even your stressors? Maybe it’s time for you to find out your inner strengths and unleash the greatness that is inside of you. We go through life with thoughts and beliefs that keep us stagnant and demotivated. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, childhood trauma or other mental health issues? Maybe you’re in the winter years of your life and feel helpless, unneeded or a burden to your family. Well, if any of these things resonate with you, it’s about time to seek a therapist that can work alongside of you to reach your goals.
What is your path, your desires or even your stressors? Maybe it’s time for you to find out your inner strengths and unleash the greatness that is inside of you. We go through life with thoughts and beliefs that keep us stagnant and demotivated. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, childhood trauma or other mental health issues? Maybe you’re in the winter years of your life and feel helpless, unneeded or a burden to your family. Well, if any of these things resonate with you, it’s about time to seek a therapist that can work alongside of you to reach your goals.
(562) 386-0526 View (562) 386-0526
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Long Beach, CA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$158

Therapists in Long Beach, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Long Beach, CA see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Long Beach?

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.