Therapists in Palmdale, CA

Photo of Laura Ege, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Laura Ege
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Online Only
As a professional woman, you’re expected to have it all together, but deep down you struggle with anxiety, overwhelm, and burnout. Maybe you’re fed up with how worry and self-doubt consume your waking moments, or you’re in a job or relationship that sucks the life out of you. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you are ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel understood and valued. You’re ready to have a plan to change your life, take charge, and start living it on your terms. Most of all, you're ready to feel confident and empowered in your job, relationships, and life.
As a professional woman, you’re expected to have it all together, but deep down you struggle with anxiety, overwhelm, and burnout. Maybe you’re fed up with how worry and self-doubt consume your waking moments, or you’re in a job or relationship that sucks the life out of you. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you are ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel understood and valued. You’re ready to have a plan to change your life, take charge, and start living it on your terms. Most of all, you're ready to feel confident and empowered in your job, relationships, and life.
(661) 493-9651 View (661) 493-9651
Photo of Martha Saavedra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Martha Saavedra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Palmdale, CA 93550
At some point in our lives we must cope with distress and pain, whether, it is related to changes within our family system, job related issues, or just the chaos and turmoil of our day to day life. These stressful situations can result in overwhelming emotions ranging from sadness, to fear and anger. Therapy can be a safe, non-judgmental place to help you explore these issues, unlock your inner-wisdom and identify key skills to help you manage difficult situations. The objective in treatment is to develop an individualized plan that offers you the opportunity to explore underlying needs and gain insight on ways to manage emotions, heal from past trauma, and accomplish self-love.
At some point in our lives we must cope with distress and pain, whether, it is related to changes within our family system, job related issues, or just the chaos and turmoil of our day to day life. These stressful situations can result in overwhelming emotions ranging from sadness, to fear and anger. Therapy can be a safe, non-judgmental place to help you explore these issues, unlock your inner-wisdom and identify key skills to help you manage difficult situations. The objective in treatment is to develop an individualized plan that offers you the opportunity to explore underlying needs and gain insight on ways to manage emotions, heal from past trauma, and accomplish self-love.
(661) 451-7507 View (661) 451-7507
Photo of Joy Cornell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joy Cornell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24 years of counseling experience. I have many years of experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, victims of abuse and codependency. I also offer Christian-based therapy for real-life issues. In addition, I am a certified Family Mediator. My goal is to help clients overcome their present adversities and to achieve more peaceful and fulfilled future.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24 years of counseling experience. I have many years of experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, victims of abuse and codependency. I also offer Christian-based therapy for real-life issues. In addition, I am a certified Family Mediator. My goal is to help clients overcome their present adversities and to achieve more peaceful and fulfilled future.
(661) 475-8181 View (661) 475-8181
Photo of Taryn Kinney, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Taryn Kinney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a more energetic therapist who will discuss and aid you in deconstructing sources of shame and frustration in your life. Depending on your specific needs, I will create a calm, safe environment where you can express your emotions freely, or I can aid you in getting up and getting moving in session, whether that be with art therapy, somatic exercise, or other evidence-based movement therapies.
I am a more energetic therapist who will discuss and aid you in deconstructing sources of shame and frustration in your life. Depending on your specific needs, I will create a calm, safe environment where you can express your emotions freely, or I can aid you in getting up and getting moving in session, whether that be with art therapy, somatic exercise, or other evidence-based movement therapies.
(661) 384-7940 View (661) 384-7940
Photo of Kristine San Mateo-Virgen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kristine San Mateo-Virgen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (in CA, HI, NV, and WA) with nearly a decade of dedicated experience in the mental health field, I recognize that reaching out for support can be a significant step. My goal is to provide a compassionate and empathetic space where you can explore your concerns and work towards meaningful change without fear of judgment. Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, or relationship problems, I am here to support you by offering guidance in navigating these challenges with understanding and respect.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (in CA, HI, NV, and WA) with nearly a decade of dedicated experience in the mental health field, I recognize that reaching out for support can be a significant step. My goal is to provide a compassionate and empathetic space where you can explore your concerns and work towards meaningful change without fear of judgment. Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, or relationship problems, I am here to support you by offering guidance in navigating these challenges with understanding and respect.
(661) 443-6728 View (661) 443-6728
Photo of Orlando Interiano, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Orlando Interiano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi! I'm Orlando Interiano, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a specialization in Trauma Studies. My therapeutic approach is centered around a person-centered and integrative methodology, aiming to facilitate healing, self-awareness, and emotional resilience. I focus on working with diverse clients, incorporating techniques from ACT, CBT, and DBT to support each individual's journey toward self-discovery and improved mental health, with a particular emphasis on serving the Latinx community.
Hi! I'm Orlando Interiano, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a specialization in Trauma Studies. My therapeutic approach is centered around a person-centered and integrative methodology, aiming to facilitate healing, self-awareness, and emotional resilience. I focus on working with diverse clients, incorporating techniques from ACT, CBT, and DBT to support each individual's journey toward self-discovery and improved mental health, with a particular emphasis on serving the Latinx community.
(661) 451-6522 View (661) 451-6522
Photo of Kate Vasquez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kate Vasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Palmdale, CA 93550
You deserve to live as authentically and with as much integrity as you desire in order to be the best version of yourself, but this can be difficult at times. The journey can be full of discovery or even feel scary. The things we think can lead us to our goals may not be as fulfilling as we thought. Sometimes because of what has happened before or what we think might happen. Change can be hard. It can feel overwhelming. It's different for everyone.
You deserve to live as authentically and with as much integrity as you desire in order to be the best version of yourself, but this can be difficult at times. The journey can be full of discovery or even feel scary. The things we think can lead us to our goals may not be as fulfilling as we thought. Sometimes because of what has happened before or what we think might happen. Change can be hard. It can feel overwhelming. It's different for everyone.
(661) 434-4724 View (661) 434-4724
Photo of Jonnie M Muckelroy - Koinonia Therapies, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Koinonia Therapies
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings and thoughts? Are you having a difficult time managing life stressors? Do you feel like no one understands you, your pain, or your journey. Do you feel stuck and need someone to help you find your way? Allow me to encourage, inspire, and guide you into recovery and healing.
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings and thoughts? Are you having a difficult time managing life stressors? Do you feel like no one understands you, your pain, or your journey. Do you feel stuck and need someone to help you find your way? Allow me to encourage, inspire, and guide you into recovery and healing.
(661) 878-9934 View (661) 878-9934
Photo of Circe Von Haus, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Circe Von Haus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Palmdale, CA 93550
We may experience challenging moments during our lives. Talking to someone can help empower an individual to accomplish their goals and improve future circumstances. As a marriage and family therapist, my areas of interests are working with grief, trauma, anger management, depression, anxiety, parenting, ADHD, Autism, children and families, and the multicultural population. I also value the therapeutic relationship and use a collaborative approach. As a bicultural individual, I value and understand cultural differences. I look forward to hearing from you.
We may experience challenging moments during our lives. Talking to someone can help empower an individual to accomplish their goals and improve future circumstances. As a marriage and family therapist, my areas of interests are working with grief, trauma, anger management, depression, anxiety, parenting, ADHD, Autism, children and families, and the multicultural population. I also value the therapeutic relationship and use a collaborative approach. As a bicultural individual, I value and understand cultural differences. I look forward to hearing from you.
(661) 218-1463 View (661) 218-1463
Photo of Colijia Feliz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Colijia Feliz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hola, I am Colijia Feliz, and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in Visalia, CA (The Central Valley, just south of Fresno, CA) and work statewide via telehealth. I am a woman of color, (mixed race), half Black and half Mexican. My approach to therapy is to help individuals understand how their past and traumas affect their present and decision-making, help them to realize their inner strengths, and how these issues also affect families, friends, etc.
Hola, I am Colijia Feliz, and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in Visalia, CA (The Central Valley, just south of Fresno, CA) and work statewide via telehealth. I am a woman of color, (mixed race), half Black and half Mexican. My approach to therapy is to help individuals understand how their past and traumas affect their present and decision-making, help them to realize their inner strengths, and how these issues also affect families, friends, etc.
(661) 486-4331 View (661) 486-4331
Photo of Cynthia Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cynthia Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I have been supporting families and their children for over 25 years. Before I completed my MSW, I worked as a peer counselor, lactation consultant, and parent educator. That experience enhances and supports my work as a social worker. My early training in engineering and understanding of research provides a broad understanding of development through childhood into adolescence. I utilize a strength-based, and client centered approach to the therapeutic process, identifying personal strengths and direction from the person receiving support.
I have been supporting families and their children for over 25 years. Before I completed my MSW, I worked as a peer counselor, lactation consultant, and parent educator. That experience enhances and supports my work as a social worker. My early training in engineering and understanding of research provides a broad understanding of development through childhood into adolescence. I utilize a strength-based, and client centered approach to the therapeutic process, identifying personal strengths and direction from the person receiving support.
(661) 387-2239 View (661) 387-2239
Photo of Hannah Capps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hannah Capps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Hannah Capps, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA. I provide therapy to clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults (18+) and specialize in treatment for depression, anxiety, and ADHD, as well as coping with life's stressors, big and small. I work with adults of any age- I have experience working with older adults, but also enjoy working with young adults as they deal with life transitions. I have worked extensively with depression, anxiety disorders, self-esteem concerns, and stress.
My name is Hannah Capps, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA. I provide therapy to clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults (18+) and specialize in treatment for depression, anxiety, and ADHD, as well as coping with life's stressors, big and small. I work with adults of any age- I have experience working with older adults, but also enjoy working with young adults as they deal with life transitions. I have worked extensively with depression, anxiety disorders, self-esteem concerns, and stress.
(661) 465-6020 View (661) 465-6020
Photo of Jesika White, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Jesika White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Jesika White, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I have experience working with individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or life transitions, I am here to help you navigate these challenges with a focus on long-term growth and well-being. I offer evidence-based strategies and tools to explore emotions, uncover patterns, and develop healthier ways of coping.
Welcome! My name is Jesika White, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I have experience working with individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or life transitions, I am here to help you navigate these challenges with a focus on long-term growth and well-being. I offer evidence-based strategies and tools to explore emotions, uncover patterns, and develop healthier ways of coping.
(661) 990-8976 View (661) 990-8976
Photo of Dr. Arlice Cleveland, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA, LMFT
Dr. Arlice Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Palmdale, CA 93551
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.
(424) 373-8129 View (424) 373-8129
Photo of Jonathan Virgen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jonathan Virgen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Realizing that you are going through a rough patch, and making the decision to seek help can be a tough thing to do. However, you are not alone. Hello, and welcome! My name is Jonathan Virgen, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. For almost 10 years, I have been working as a therapist providing mental health services for children, teens, and adults of various cultural backgrounds and different mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, disruptive behavior, and traumatic stress.
Realizing that you are going through a rough patch, and making the decision to seek help can be a tough thing to do. However, you are not alone. Hello, and welcome! My name is Jonathan Virgen, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. For almost 10 years, I have been working as a therapist providing mental health services for children, teens, and adults of various cultural backgrounds and different mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, disruptive behavior, and traumatic stress.
(661) 724-4763 View (661) 724-4763
Photo of Ashley Holmes, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist
Online Only
I have served clients dealing with stressors and problems with the legal and child welfare system, dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Grief, Parenting conflict, family conflict, Anger Management, DV for Victims and Perps, and Substance Abuse. I enjoy each population differently and my ultimate goal is to just help guide others to their true authentic self, free from their problems, and help heal those I cross paths with. My observation has been that we are all here just trying to do our best with what we have and we are capable to get to the desired life we want if we just take that step towards change.
I have served clients dealing with stressors and problems with the legal and child welfare system, dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Grief, Parenting conflict, family conflict, Anger Management, DV for Victims and Perps, and Substance Abuse. I enjoy each population differently and my ultimate goal is to just help guide others to their true authentic self, free from their problems, and help heal those I cross paths with. My observation has been that we are all here just trying to do our best with what we have and we are capable to get to the desired life we want if we just take that step towards change.
(661) 462-7009 View (661) 462-7009
Photo of Alexis Abigail Begue, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Alexis Abigail Begue
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Change is necessary but it is also difficult. I believe that everyone has the ability to change and grow but sometimes we need some help along the way. As a therapist, I like to use a collaborative approach to help you reach your fullest potential and together, we will form goals that align with your beliefs and values. It is important that while we work together you feel heard and understood. Anxiety and depression can sometimes feel overwhelming and can take up a lot of time and energy. Although it seems like you will live like this forever, it doesn’t have to be that way.
Change is necessary but it is also difficult. I believe that everyone has the ability to change and grow but sometimes we need some help along the way. As a therapist, I like to use a collaborative approach to help you reach your fullest potential and together, we will form goals that align with your beliefs and values. It is important that while we work together you feel heard and understood. Anxiety and depression can sometimes feel overwhelming and can take up a lot of time and energy. Although it seems like you will live like this forever, it doesn’t have to be that way.
(661) 669-8160 View (661) 669-8160
Photo of Melisa E. Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melisa E. Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Melisa, and I am an experienced therapist with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and achieve their full potential. With nearly a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients and gain expertise in various evidence-based therapies. As a therapist, I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without fear of stigma. My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to the unique needs and goals of each individual.
Hello, my name is Melisa, and I am an experienced therapist with a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and achieve their full potential. With nearly a decade of experience in the field of mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients and gain expertise in various evidence-based therapies. As a therapist, I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without fear of stigma. My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to the unique needs and goals of each individual.
(661) 689-7261 View (661) 689-7261
Photo of Irene Cortez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Irene Cortez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, I am Dr. Irene Cortez, DMFT; I hold a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy and I have my Licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy. My practice centers around working with individuals who are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and stressors. I have extensive history working with young children and adolescents regarding parenting skills, ADHD, and behavioral issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with young and older adults. In my practice I work with patients who are learning to cope with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms.
Hello, I am Dr. Irene Cortez, DMFT; I hold a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy and I have my Licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy. My practice centers around working with individuals who are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and stressors. I have extensive history working with young children and adolescents regarding parenting skills, ADHD, and behavioral issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with young and older adults. In my practice I work with patients who are learning to cope with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms.
(661) 690-7165 View (661) 690-7165
Photo of Elizabeth Christy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Christy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Elizabeth Christy and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Educator. I utilize a strengths-based approach to collaborate with patients to reach their goals and improve their overall well-being. I utilize a mindfulness-based approach to develop individualized treatment plans that support reducing the impact of emotional and mental challenges that can influence day-to-day well-being. I specialize in supporting Patient's coping with symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief, Loss, Trauma, transition, and/or other emotional and mental challenges.
Hi there! My name is Elizabeth Christy and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Educator. I utilize a strengths-based approach to collaborate with patients to reach their goals and improve their overall well-being. I utilize a mindfulness-based approach to develop individualized treatment plans that support reducing the impact of emotional and mental challenges that can influence day-to-day well-being. I specialize in supporting Patient's coping with symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief, Loss, Trauma, transition, and/or other emotional and mental challenges.
(661) 403-0052 View (661) 403-0052
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See more therapy options for Palmdale

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Palmdale, CA

200+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Palmdale, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
73% Coping Skills
73% Self Esteem
70% Stress
65% Relationship Issues
63% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Palmdale, CA see their clients

70% Online Only
30% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Palmdale?

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.