Therapists in Newport Beach, CA

Photo of Laura Weber, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Laura Weber
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Not accepting new clients
Many kids and teens struggle with big feelings, school stress, friendships, or changes at home, and they often need a safe space to make sense of their experiences. I support young people who feel overwhelmed, anxious, withdrawn, or unsure how to express themselves, and I help parents who want to better understand and connect with their child. My goal is to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where youth feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow, build confidence, and develop healthier ways of coping.
Many kids and teens struggle with big feelings, school stress, friendships, or changes at home, and they often need a safe space to make sense of their experiences. I support young people who feel overwhelmed, anxious, withdrawn, or unsure how to express themselves, and I help parents who want to better understand and connect with their child. My goal is to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where youth feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow, build confidence, and develop healthier ways of coping.
(949) 670-9169 View (949) 670-9169
Photo of Alexandra Schnack, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Alexandra Schnack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I offer a safe place to explore current your barriers and hardships. If you find yourself with feelings of guilt/shame, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, low motivation, fear, and hypervigilance it may be time to seek help to allow yourself to reach your full potential and find happiness. I have worked with survivors of domestic abuse (emotional, psychological, and physical), substance abuse, grief and loss, and trauma (childhood or current events). It is important to examine yourself to overcome limiting thoughts, barriers, and behaviors. The goal is connecting with yourself and others to improve your quality of life.
I offer a safe place to explore current your barriers and hardships. If you find yourself with feelings of guilt/shame, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, low motivation, fear, and hypervigilance it may be time to seek help to allow yourself to reach your full potential and find happiness. I have worked with survivors of domestic abuse (emotional, psychological, and physical), substance abuse, grief and loss, and trauma (childhood or current events). It is important to examine yourself to overcome limiting thoughts, barriers, and behaviors. The goal is connecting with yourself and others to improve your quality of life.
(949) 997-0551 View (949) 997-0551
Photo of Nick Morvan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAMS-II
Nick Morvan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAMS-II
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck sucks. Numbing doesn’t fix it. Being the guy that has it all together and goes it alone is exhausting. So stop pretending. Together, let’s unplug the pressure cooker of comparison. Let’s swap your sense of failure for hope. Let’s kick lack of purpose out the door and replace it with self worth. Relationships don’t have a manual. Let's improve connection with your partner by nurturing healthy habits. The cycle of frustration and anxiety can end. It’s time to get your head above water.
Feeling stuck sucks. Numbing doesn’t fix it. Being the guy that has it all together and goes it alone is exhausting. So stop pretending. Together, let’s unplug the pressure cooker of comparison. Let’s swap your sense of failure for hope. Let’s kick lack of purpose out the door and replace it with self worth. Relationships don’t have a manual. Let's improve connection with your partner by nurturing healthy habits. The cycle of frustration and anxiety can end. It’s time to get your head above water.
(323) 689-5173 View (323) 689-5173
Photo of Michael P. Dena, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Michael P. Dena
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My philosophy regarding the therapeutic process is based on a deep belief that providing true empathy within a nonjudgmental, trusting, and safe environment creates the essential conditions for growth and healing to take place. I approach all individuals, couples, and families that I treat with a profound sense of respect and care. Drawing upon empirically based research, I utilize proven interventions to provide relief and recovery to all my clients. Furthermore, I hold the therapeutic relationship in the highest of regard. I aim to support all individuals experiencing relational distress, mental health issues, and trauma.
My philosophy regarding the therapeutic process is based on a deep belief that providing true empathy within a nonjudgmental, trusting, and safe environment creates the essential conditions for growth and healing to take place. I approach all individuals, couples, and families that I treat with a profound sense of respect and care. Drawing upon empirically based research, I utilize proven interventions to provide relief and recovery to all my clients. Furthermore, I hold the therapeutic relationship in the highest of regard. I aim to support all individuals experiencing relational distress, mental health issues, and trauma.
(949) 749-6879 View (949) 749-6879
Photo of Irene Alvarez de Schwartz, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Irene Alvarez de Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you carrying silent struggles while trying to keep everything together? Many people feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or relationship conflict, yet feel pressured to appear strong. Life transitions, unresolved family dynamics, or a sense of disconnection can leave you emotionally drained, uncertain about how to move forward, and even impact your physical health. Reaching out for support is a courageous step and I am here to accompany you on your journey as a steady and compassionate guiding light.
Are you carrying silent struggles while trying to keep everything together? Many people feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or relationship conflict, yet feel pressured to appear strong. Life transitions, unresolved family dynamics, or a sense of disconnection can leave you emotionally drained, uncertain about how to move forward, and even impact your physical health. Reaching out for support is a courageous step and I am here to accompany you on your journey as a steady and compassionate guiding light.
(949) 997-2899 View (949) 997-2899
Photo of Lisa Lee, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MSc, EMDR
Lisa Lee
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MSc, EMDR
Online Only
I specialize in trauma, domestic abuse and addiction. I also help clients that struggle with depression, anxiety, relational issues and interpersonal struggles. I use a comprehensive, integrative approach to healing (EMDR) as well as CBT, DBT and Mindful practices.EMDR is a systematic process of healing that promotes emotional stability by helping to free the mind from past thoughts, memories and behaviors that are present in daily life. The mindful approach to emotional healing works through conscious change in perspective. Being consciously aware of unconscious thoughts helps in the process of change. Perspective is your reality.
I specialize in trauma, domestic abuse and addiction. I also help clients that struggle with depression, anxiety, relational issues and interpersonal struggles. I use a comprehensive, integrative approach to healing (EMDR) as well as CBT, DBT and Mindful practices.EMDR is a systematic process of healing that promotes emotional stability by helping to free the mind from past thoughts, memories and behaviors that are present in daily life. The mindful approach to emotional healing works through conscious change in perspective. Being consciously aware of unconscious thoughts helps in the process of change. Perspective is your reality.
(949) 832-6695 View (949) 832-6695
Photo of Marisa Leto, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Marisa Leto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Online Only
My goal is to partner with you to elevate your life state, expand your coping skills, develop healthy strategies, reduce suffering, maladaptive, and destructive behaviors, and provide presence for the softest landing possible that leads to the best interests of your very best self with your integrity intact.
My goal is to partner with you to elevate your life state, expand your coping skills, develop healthy strategies, reduce suffering, maladaptive, and destructive behaviors, and provide presence for the softest landing possible that leads to the best interests of your very best self with your integrity intact.
(510) 571-4987 View (510) 571-4987
Photo of Jeremy Harvey, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jeremy Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Newport Beach, CA 92660
A main focus of my therapy is joining clients in what they are going through. Therapeutic workbooks are great, but there is a big difference between opening up to a workbook versus opening up to a human being. When we open up to another person we make ourselves vulnerable. That is when true growth begins. I set out to try and help people deal with the core issues, as well as enhance their core strengths. When there is a recovery in the core, the symptoms can be dealt with. Our problematic situations and behaviors are but a symptom. Website: jeremyharveymftcom
A main focus of my therapy is joining clients in what they are going through. Therapeutic workbooks are great, but there is a big difference between opening up to a workbook versus opening up to a human being. When we open up to another person we make ourselves vulnerable. That is when true growth begins. I set out to try and help people deal with the core issues, as well as enhance their core strengths. When there is a recovery in the core, the symptoms can be dealt with. Our problematic situations and behaviors are but a symptom. Website: jeremyharveymftcom
(949) 647-4233 View (949) 647-4233
Photo of Sophie Clauss, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sophie Clauss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
12 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
You’re nervous, worried and feel like you’re living in the past. It feels like it is haunting you. Relationships feel scary because of how you’ve been hurt or let down by people in your life. You know you are ready for the next chapter but you just aren’t sure how to get there or move on. Feelings of overwhelm, being “stuck” and anxiety are feelings that you have come to know too well. You remember a time when you didn’t feel this way, but that was before “that” happened. While it is hard to imagine now, I want you to know there is a reality where you can move on from past hurt and thrive.
You’re nervous, worried and feel like you’re living in the past. It feels like it is haunting you. Relationships feel scary because of how you’ve been hurt or let down by people in your life. You know you are ready for the next chapter but you just aren’t sure how to get there or move on. Feelings of overwhelm, being “stuck” and anxiety are feelings that you have come to know too well. You remember a time when you didn’t feel this way, but that was before “that” happened. While it is hard to imagine now, I want you to know there is a reality where you can move on from past hurt and thrive.
(949) 401-9323 View (949) 401-9323
Photo of Dr. Thuy Tran, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Thuy Tran
Psychologist, PsyD
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you having difficulties coping with stress, managing conflicts, and connecting to others? Personal conflicts can elicit emotions, thoughts, and reactions in ourselves that structure our sense of self and our relationships. I can help guide you to a deeper understanding of your feelings about your relationships and personal view of yourself. I exercise compassionate understanding to help you resolve the seeming paradoxes of conflicts within your life to help you achieve an increased sense of harmony and peace.
Are you having difficulties coping with stress, managing conflicts, and connecting to others? Personal conflicts can elicit emotions, thoughts, and reactions in ourselves that structure our sense of self and our relationships. I can help guide you to a deeper understanding of your feelings about your relationships and personal view of yourself. I exercise compassionate understanding to help you resolve the seeming paradoxes of conflicts within your life to help you achieve an increased sense of harmony and peace.
(657) 286-7029 View (657) 286-7029
Photo of Allison Beauchamp, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Allison Beauchamp
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Feeling lost, misunderstood, or not good enough? Carrying trauma or stress that makes it hard to move forward? My approach is grounded in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. I help people process trauma, manage stress, improve relationships, and build healthier ways of coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Together, we explore patterns, strengths, and experiences that shape your life, while developing practical tools that support resilience and meaningful change.
Feeling lost, misunderstood, or not good enough? Carrying trauma or stress that makes it hard to move forward? My approach is grounded in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. I help people process trauma, manage stress, improve relationships, and build healthier ways of coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Together, we explore patterns, strengths, and experiences that shape your life, while developing practical tools that support resilience and meaningful change.
(949) 693-8129 View (949) 693-8129
Photo of Lauren J Hart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Lauren J Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
4 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As a therapist I strive to create a space where you feel safe to explore those untouched areas of anxiety, trauma, hurt and shame. I approach each client with kindness and compassion, while also gently encouraging growth and healing at a pace that feels right for you. Therapy can be both a refuge and a challenge, and my role is to walk alongside you as you explore your story, uncover insight, and take meaningful steps toward change.
As a therapist I strive to create a space where you feel safe to explore those untouched areas of anxiety, trauma, hurt and shame. I approach each client with kindness and compassion, while also gently encouraging growth and healing at a pace that feels right for you. Therapy can be both a refuge and a challenge, and my role is to walk alongside you as you explore your story, uncover insight, and take meaningful steps toward change.
(949) 787-1307 View (949) 787-1307
Photo of Madison Park, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Madison Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Does this sound like you? You are experiencing triggers in your daily life that you don’t understand, and you have tried everything you know to "move on." Yet, the patterns like uncontrollable reactions in your relationships, chronic burnout at work or home life, or the mere thought of a memory causes overwhelming distress. You could go on living, but you're tired of surviving day to day, and you're curious if there's another way. The kind of healing you're looking for doesn't come from willpower-it involves freeing parts of you stuck in survival mode. Life is too short to just get by-take the first step towards lasting change!
Does this sound like you? You are experiencing triggers in your daily life that you don’t understand, and you have tried everything you know to "move on." Yet, the patterns like uncontrollable reactions in your relationships, chronic burnout at work or home life, or the mere thought of a memory causes overwhelming distress. You could go on living, but you're tired of surviving day to day, and you're curious if there's another way. The kind of healing you're looking for doesn't come from willpower-it involves freeing parts of you stuck in survival mode. Life is too short to just get by-take the first step towards lasting change!
(949) 538-2024 View (949) 538-2024
Photo of Samantha Haselroth, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Samantha Haselroth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I provide supportive therapy for teens and adults looking to learn and heal from anxiety, depression, body image issues, self-esteem or life stressors. My work with individuals includes improving relationships, learning how to become "unstuck," increasing self-worth and better coping with difficult feelings. I am also trained in EMDR which allows me to support individuals who have experienced traumatic or stressful experiences and are ready to heal. My work with parents of children ages 6-16 allows me to share my knowledge on behavior modification interventions and child-focused practices to improve overall harmony at home
I provide supportive therapy for teens and adults looking to learn and heal from anxiety, depression, body image issues, self-esteem or life stressors. My work with individuals includes improving relationships, learning how to become "unstuck," increasing self-worth and better coping with difficult feelings. I am also trained in EMDR which allows me to support individuals who have experienced traumatic or stressful experiences and are ready to heal. My work with parents of children ages 6-16 allows me to share my knowledge on behavior modification interventions and child-focused practices to improve overall harmony at home
(949) 796-6488 View (949) 796-6488
Photo of Dr. Kellie M. Nasont, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Kellie M. Nasont
Psychologist, PsyD
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am passionate about developmental stages throughout the lifetime. Every stage brings new challenges and gifts, and the opportunity to shape our identities through values-based living. My therapeutic approach is full of warmth, openness, and curiosity, and I enjoy walking alongside patients on their journey.
I am passionate about developmental stages throughout the lifetime. Every stage brings new challenges and gifts, and the opportunity to shape our identities through values-based living. My therapeutic approach is full of warmth, openness, and curiosity, and I enjoy walking alongside patients on their journey.
(626) 240-5724 View (626) 240-5724
Photo of Marni Reinhardt, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Marni Reinhardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Online Only
Being part of a couple can be challenging. Do you need to improve your communication with your partner? Do you wish for a better emotional and physical connection? Perhaps you are hurting from a betrayal? Parenting styles too different? Or maybe you feel anxious or depressed about something in your life or relationship.
Being part of a couple can be challenging. Do you need to improve your communication with your partner? Do you wish for a better emotional and physical connection? Perhaps you are hurting from a betrayal? Parenting styles too different? Or maybe you feel anxious or depressed about something in your life or relationship.
(949) 682-3744 View (949) 682-3744
Photo of Ho Ying Chu 朱可盈臨床心理學博士 - Ho Ying Chu, PsyD., LCSW, Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Ho Ying Chu, PsyD., LCSW
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Online Only
I am a trilingual clinician (English, Cantonese, and Mandarin) specializing in forensic psychology and neuropsychology. I attended TCSPP and Pepperdine University. I have received comprehensive training at well-respected institutions, including a three-year post-doctoral medical psychology residency at Ibemed, where I specialized in neuropsychology and behavioral medicine. I also received training at LAC-DMH, Harbor-UCLA (advanced CBT), VIP’s Forensic Urgent Care Center, LAC-USC Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente. I completed USC/(UCEDD) APA internship didactics at the No. 1 children’s hospital in the western United States.
I am a trilingual clinician (English, Cantonese, and Mandarin) specializing in forensic psychology and neuropsychology. I attended TCSPP and Pepperdine University. I have received comprehensive training at well-respected institutions, including a three-year post-doctoral medical psychology residency at Ibemed, where I specialized in neuropsychology and behavioral medicine. I also received training at LAC-DMH, Harbor-UCLA (advanced CBT), VIP’s Forensic Urgent Care Center, LAC-USC Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente. I completed USC/(UCEDD) APA internship didactics at the No. 1 children’s hospital in the western United States.
(626) 548-4713 View (626) 548-4713
Photo of Alina Bright - Bright Idea Psychology, Psychologist, PsyD
Bright Idea Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Dr. Bright is a Child Psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with High Functioning Autism previously known as Asperger Syndrome. Dr.Bright also has extensive training, education and experience working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, grief and loss. In her practice, Dr.Bright relies on evidence-based interventions to teach children copings skills to manage difficult situations and re-gain their self esteem.
Dr. Bright is a Child Psychologist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with High Functioning Autism previously known as Asperger Syndrome. Dr.Bright also has extensive training, education and experience working with children, teens and young adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, grief and loss. In her practice, Dr.Bright relies on evidence-based interventions to teach children copings skills to manage difficult situations and re-gain their self esteem.
(949) 531-7306 View (949) 531-7306
Photo of Cigdem Coyle, Psychologist, PsyD
Cigdem Coyle
Psychologist, PsyD
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and panic related issues. My work focuses on general anxiety, health-related anxiety, and performance-based stress, with particular expertise supporting individuals coping with medical concern such as cancer and menopause. I also work with college students experiencing school task related anxiety, including performance pressure, academic stress, and life transitions. I work exclusively with adults in individual therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and panic related issues. My work focuses on general anxiety, health-related anxiety, and performance-based stress, with particular expertise supporting individuals coping with medical concern such as cancer and menopause. I also work with college students experiencing school task related anxiety, including performance pressure, academic stress, and life transitions. I work exclusively with adults in individual therapy.
(424) 570-1229 View (424) 570-1229
Photo of Benjamin Strack - OC Sport Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, CMPC, BCIA
OC Sport Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CMPC, BCIA
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As sport psychologists and mental performance consultants, we work closely with athletes and business professionals who want to reach their performance potential. Here are some common concerns/requests that we receive: "I want to be better prepared for competitions, I get too anxious before I perform, I'm really hard on myself and need to Improve my 'self-talk', I need some ways to stop over-thinking, I really need to Improve my concentration, I've been injured and its affecting my emotional state, how can I get better at managing high levels of adversity and pressure, I want to recover quickly from mistakes"
As sport psychologists and mental performance consultants, we work closely with athletes and business professionals who want to reach their performance potential. Here are some common concerns/requests that we receive: "I want to be better prepared for competitions, I get too anxious before I perform, I'm really hard on myself and need to Improve my 'self-talk', I need some ways to stop over-thinking, I really need to Improve my concentration, I've been injured and its affecting my emotional state, how can I get better at managing high levels of adversity and pressure, I want to recover quickly from mistakes"
(949) 860-7145 View (949) 860-7145

See more therapy options for Newport Beach

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newport Beach, CA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$187

Therapists in Newport Beach, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
63% Marriage Counseling

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
66% Cigna and Evernorth
52% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Newport Beach, CA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Newport 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.