Therapists in San Diego, CA

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Photo of Margaret Boyd - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy Private DBT IOP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBT IOP
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy Private DBT IOP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBT IOP
San Diego, CA 92108
When your child or young adult is self-harming, suicidal, explosive, or spiraling despite therapy or medication, weekly counseling is not enough. If you are worried about safety, repeated crises, or hospitalization, intensive treatment may be needed now. Personal Evolution Psychotherapy provides full, comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — one of the most effective treatments for chronic suicidality, self-harm, and severe emotional dysregulation. Our private DBT Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) delivers structured, high-support care for teens and young adults whose lives feel chaotic, unsafe, or out of control.
When your child or young adult is self-harming, suicidal, explosive, or spiraling despite therapy or medication, weekly counseling is not enough. If you are worried about safety, repeated crises, or hospitalization, intensive treatment may be needed now. Personal Evolution Psychotherapy provides full, comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — one of the most effective treatments for chronic suicidality, self-harm, and severe emotional dysregulation. Our private DBT Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) delivers structured, high-support care for teens and young adults whose lives feel chaotic, unsafe, or out of control.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Christopher Eric Chandler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Christopher Eric Chandler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
San Diego, CA 92108
Hi! :) I am passionate about fostering meaning and hope in relationships, and about feeling alive and connected in life. I love being of service and would be honored to join you on your journey. I lean into, and am humbled and honored to work with clients of different paths from my own. I enjoy learning and growing from surrounding myself with people with distinct experiences. I find solace and inspiration in wilderness. I am a backpacking instructor and outdoor educator. Formerly, I worked in outdoor youth development and mentorship with non-profit organizations aiming to provide communities greater access to such experiences.
Hi! :) I am passionate about fostering meaning and hope in relationships, and about feeling alive and connected in life. I love being of service and would be honored to join you on your journey. I lean into, and am humbled and honored to work with clients of different paths from my own. I enjoy learning and growing from surrounding myself with people with distinct experiences. I find solace and inspiration in wilderness. I am a backpacking instructor and outdoor educator. Formerly, I worked in outdoor youth development and mentorship with non-profit organizations aiming to provide communities greater access to such experiences.
(619) 489-8689 View (619) 489-8689
Photo of Kelsey Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Kelsey Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
9 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You are the strong one. High-achieving, independent, and holding it all together. But underneath, you’re tired of feeling alone, anxious in relationships, or stuck in patterns that don’t serve you. You long for connection, safety, and ease. You want to understand where these patterns come from, heal what’s underneath, and finally feel free to be fully yourself—in relationships and in life. You’re ready for real change, not just coping. Let’s get you there! I specialize in working with clients who have relationship anxiety (attachment), codependency or hyper independence, marital issues, self esteem issues and inner child wounding.
You are the strong one. High-achieving, independent, and holding it all together. But underneath, you’re tired of feeling alone, anxious in relationships, or stuck in patterns that don’t serve you. You long for connection, safety, and ease. You want to understand where these patterns come from, heal what’s underneath, and finally feel free to be fully yourself—in relationships and in life. You’re ready for real change, not just coping. Let’s get you there! I specialize in working with clients who have relationship anxiety (attachment), codependency or hyper independence, marital issues, self esteem issues and inner child wounding.
(408) 528-2255 View (408) 528-2255
Photo of Jeff Larsen - Jeff K. Larsen: San Diego's "Cool Counselor", MA, BCPC
Jeff K. Larsen: San Diego's "Cool Counselor"
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92105
I am a fun, compassionate, and very easy-to-talk-to counselor. I have helped hundreds of people create better lives for themselves in a short amount of time thanks to good therapy. My work has been featured on FOX5 News, Good Morning San Diego, the CW6, WebMD and The San Diego Union Tribune. I speak both English and some Spanish and have a beautiful office in Mission Valley with lots of free parking to better serve you. Please check out my website...www.coolcounselorsd.com!
I am a fun, compassionate, and very easy-to-talk-to counselor. I have helped hundreds of people create better lives for themselves in a short amount of time thanks to good therapy. My work has been featured on FOX5 News, Good Morning San Diego, the CW6, WebMD and The San Diego Union Tribune. I speak both English and some Spanish and have a beautiful office in Mission Valley with lots of free parking to better serve you. Please check out my website...www.coolcounselorsd.com!
(619) 900-6802 View (619) 900-6802
Photo of Gina Biagini-French, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Gina Biagini-French
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92120
Gina Biagini-French completed her graduate degree in Marriage and Family Counseling in 1996 and was licensed in 2000. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1990. Gina treats clients from all backgrounds with a variety of clinical concerns, and has worked in various nonprofit, university and elementary school settings.
Gina Biagini-French completed her graduate degree in Marriage and Family Counseling in 1996 and was licensed in 2000. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1990. Gina treats clients from all backgrounds with a variety of clinical concerns, and has worked in various nonprofit, university and elementary school settings.
(858) 758-3660 View (858) 758-3660
Photo of Amanda Laughlin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Amanda Laughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist offering virtual sessions to clients residing in California. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and older, couples, and families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, and supporting clients through challenging seasons of life due to change or transition. I am LGBTQ+ Affirming.
I am a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist offering virtual sessions to clients residing in California. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and older, couples, and families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, and supporting clients through challenging seasons of life due to change or transition. I am LGBTQ+ Affirming.
(619) 439-0655 View (619) 439-0655
Photo of Rachel Machtinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rachel Machtinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Adolescence and young adulthood can be intensely tender seasons—especially when layered with trauma, identity exploration, or feeling out of sync with the world around you. You might feel pressure to be okay when inside, things feel anything but. With an MSW from Smith College and a grounding in DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, I support LGBTQ+ teens and young adults navigating PTSD, emotional overwhelm, and the search for authenticity.
Adolescence and young adulthood can be intensely tender seasons—especially when layered with trauma, identity exploration, or feeling out of sync with the world around you. You might feel pressure to be okay when inside, things feel anything but. With an MSW from Smith College and a grounding in DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, I support LGBTQ+ teens and young adults navigating PTSD, emotional overwhelm, and the search for authenticity.
(858) 358-6500 View (858) 358-6500
Photo of Ladera Linn, Psychologist, PsyD
Ladera Linn
Psychologist, PsyD
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel disconnected from your body, burned out, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Whether you’re navigating body image concerns, disordered eating, chronic stress, or health-related anxiety, you deserve care that sees the full picture. As a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in health psychology, I help individuals heal their relationship with their mind and body. My approach is warm, affirming, and collaborative—I'll help you unpack your history to understand yourself on a deeper level. I'm here to guide you toward the most confident and healthy you!
Do you feel disconnected from your body, burned out, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Whether you’re navigating body image concerns, disordered eating, chronic stress, or health-related anxiety, you deserve care that sees the full picture. As a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in health psychology, I help individuals heal their relationship with their mind and body. My approach is warm, affirming, and collaborative—I'll help you unpack your history to understand yourself on a deeper level. I'm here to guide you toward the most confident and healthy you!
(858) 533-2748 View (858) 533-2748
Photo of Karen DeSocio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen DeSocio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Navigating life with ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or Depression can feel overwhelming, leaving you frustrated, unfocused, or disconnected. You might find yourself struggling to keep up with daily demands, manage mood swings, or feel joy in the little things. These challenges can affect your relationships, work, and self-esteem. Together, we can address these concerns, uncovering strengths and developing practical strategies to manage symptoms. My aim is to create a supportive space where you feel seen and empowered on your journey toward balance and fulfillment.
Navigating life with ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or Depression can feel overwhelming, leaving you frustrated, unfocused, or disconnected. You might find yourself struggling to keep up with daily demands, manage mood swings, or feel joy in the little things. These challenges can affect your relationships, work, and self-esteem. Together, we can address these concerns, uncovering strengths and developing practical strategies to manage symptoms. My aim is to create a supportive space where you feel seen and empowered on your journey toward balance and fulfillment.
(858) 799-0304 View (858) 799-0304
Photo of Gregory Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Gregory Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
San Diego, CA 92130
Specialized therapy for teens and young adults: Are you the parent of a teenager who is having problems at school, with friends, and/or issues at home? Are you a college student or young adult dealing with issues relating to school, work, relationships, and/or family? I come to therapy with years of corporate business experience and my therapeutic background includes working as a mental health therapist at Los Altos High School in Los Altos, CA, teaching the Heart to Heart seminar at Stanford Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, CA, and training at the Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC) in Mountain View, CA.
Specialized therapy for teens and young adults: Are you the parent of a teenager who is having problems at school, with friends, and/or issues at home? Are you a college student or young adult dealing with issues relating to school, work, relationships, and/or family? I come to therapy with years of corporate business experience and my therapeutic background includes working as a mental health therapist at Los Altos High School in Los Altos, CA, teaching the Heart to Heart seminar at Stanford Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, CA, and training at the Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC) in Mountain View, CA.
(858) 333-4454 View (858) 333-4454
Photo of Jennifer Ann Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Ann Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92130
I specialize in treating clients who are dealing with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, and ineffective coping. My focus is on creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can feel understood, develop increased self-awareness, learn to better manage their emotions, and feel empowered in their daily lives.
I specialize in treating clients who are dealing with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, and ineffective coping. My focus is on creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can feel understood, develop increased self-awareness, learn to better manage their emotions, and feel empowered in their daily lives.
(858) 544-0825 View (858) 544-0825
Photo of Koalani Lahr, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Koalani Lahr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Aloha and welcome! I’m Koalani (she/her), a virtual therapist providing online therapy for adults in California. I specialize in perinatal mental health, including pregnancy and postpartum care, as well as anxiety therapy and stress management. Many of my clients are navigating pregnancy, healing after a challenging birth, adjusting to postpartum changes, managing relationship stress, or coping with anxiety. They’re often high-functioning and capable, yet internally stuck in people-pleasing, chronic worry, overthinking, and self-doubt—and ready to feel more like themselves again.
Aloha and welcome! I’m Koalani (she/her), a virtual therapist providing online therapy for adults in California. I specialize in perinatal mental health, including pregnancy and postpartum care, as well as anxiety therapy and stress management. Many of my clients are navigating pregnancy, healing after a challenging birth, adjusting to postpartum changes, managing relationship stress, or coping with anxiety. They’re often high-functioning and capable, yet internally stuck in people-pleasing, chronic worry, overthinking, and self-doubt—and ready to feel more like themselves again.
(619) 597-2349 View (619) 597-2349
Photo of Denise Alba - Brave Wellness Studio, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, ASW
Brave Wellness Studio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, ASW
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92124
Tired of talk therapy that goes nowhere? You’ve seen therapist after therapist, each one listens, nods, and takes notes… but where are the practical tools for real change? If you're craving more than just conversation, you're not alone and BRAVE Wellness Studio is here to help!
Tired of talk therapy that goes nowhere? You’ve seen therapist after therapist, each one listens, nods, and takes notes… but where are the practical tools for real change? If you're craving more than just conversation, you're not alone and BRAVE Wellness Studio is here to help!
(619) 383-2692 View (619) 383-2692
Photo of Joseph Jeffers - Joseph Jeffers MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Joseph Jeffers MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
San Diego, CA 92103
I understand therapy as a compassionate journey of self-discovery. I believe we have the resources within ourselves to develop happy and meaningful lives and relationships. However, sometimes we get stuck, sidetracked, or distracted by the complex world around us. Past traumas or current stressors put up roadblocks. Partnering with a therapist who is a good fit is one way to navigate challenging times. I can help you with * Personal Growth * Life Transitions * Managing Chronic Illness * Issues of Grief and Loss * LGBT Issues * Spiritual Growth * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Anger Management * Strengthening Relationships * Substance Abuse * Eating Disorders
I understand therapy as a compassionate journey of self-discovery. I believe we have the resources within ourselves to develop happy and meaningful lives and relationships. However, sometimes we get stuck, sidetracked, or distracted by the complex world around us. Past traumas or current stressors put up roadblocks. Partnering with a therapist who is a good fit is one way to navigate challenging times. I can help you with * Personal Growth * Life Transitions * Managing Chronic Illness * Issues of Grief and Loss * LGBT Issues * Spiritual Growth * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Anger Management * Strengthening Relationships * Substance Abuse * Eating Disorders
(619) 987-0735 View (619) 987-0735
Photo of William Nathaniel Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MBA
William Nathaniel Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MBA
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you a Man who is tired of being governed by insecurities, the pressure of society, the void your absent father left, depression, trauma, depression, anxiety, and the unhealthy masculine connections we’ve had to create in order to emotionally (and sometimes physically) survive? Through my own journey dealing with these issues as a Man and as a Father, I have gained a passion to help other Men lean into their fears, embrace them and unleash the Strength it takes to be Vulnerable and…discover new Strength from being Vulnerable.
Are you a Man who is tired of being governed by insecurities, the pressure of society, the void your absent father left, depression, trauma, depression, anxiety, and the unhealthy masculine connections we’ve had to create in order to emotionally (and sometimes physically) survive? Through my own journey dealing with these issues as a Man and as a Father, I have gained a passion to help other Men lean into their fears, embrace them and unleash the Strength it takes to be Vulnerable and…discover new Strength from being Vulnerable.
(619) 493-3379 View (619) 493-3379
Photo of Jay Alarcon, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jay Alarcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92120
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
(858) 360-8251 View (858) 360-8251
Photo of Jill Koenig, Psychologist, PsyD
Jill Koenig
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I am a licensed psychologist with over 18 years of experience working with active-duty service members and veterans. I specialize in trauma and anxiety related disorders, with a strong focus on mindfulness and nervous system regulation. I am a certified iRest Yoga Nidra meditation teacher and enjoy thoughtfully integrating meditation into therapy. I am also a trauma-informed 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) and find yoga and other somatic techniques to be valuable additions to the healing process.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 18 years of experience working with active-duty service members and veterans. I specialize in trauma and anxiety related disorders, with a strong focus on mindfulness and nervous system regulation. I am a certified iRest Yoga Nidra meditation teacher and enjoy thoughtfully integrating meditation into therapy. I am also a trauma-informed 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) and find yoga and other somatic techniques to be valuable additions to the healing process.
(619) 374-7077 View (619) 374-7077
Photo of Ji Eun (Gina) Midlam, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ji Eun (Gina) Midlam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Ji Eun (Gina) Midlam, LCSW,ACM,CCM,CHC. I have been licensed therapist with the Board of Behavioral Sciences since 2005. Currently, I also work in the healthcare industry for 20 years as a clinical supervisor and have my evening practice. My therapeutic approach/areas of focus involve:, life/health coaching, job stress management, career counseling, emotional supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, marital stress counseling, infertility and female related issues, medical issues of a new diagnosis, anxiety and depression, self-esteem/confidence problems.
Ji Eun (Gina) Midlam, LCSW,ACM,CCM,CHC. I have been licensed therapist with the Board of Behavioral Sciences since 2005. Currently, I also work in the healthcare industry for 20 years as a clinical supervisor and have my evening practice. My therapeutic approach/areas of focus involve:, life/health coaching, job stress management, career counseling, emotional supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, marital stress counseling, infertility and female related issues, medical issues of a new diagnosis, anxiety and depression, self-esteem/confidence problems.
(415) 801-0589 View (415) 801-0589
Photo of Emily Jarrell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Emily Jarrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
Hi, I’m Emily Jarrell, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with adults and adolescents navigating PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, and challenges related to emotional regulation and identity. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
Hi, I’m Emily Jarrell, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with adults and adolescents navigating PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, and challenges related to emotional regulation and identity. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
(858) 842-5908 View (858) 842-5908
Photo of Kenneth Gregg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kenneth Gregg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an experienced therapist, working in the SF Bay Area with hundreds of clients on a wide range of issues. I work with people in transition and who are wanting to understand themselves in a deeper way.
I am an experienced therapist, working in the SF Bay Area with hundreds of clients on a wide range of issues. I work with people in transition and who are wanting to understand themselves in a deeper way.
(510) 513-8048 View (510) 513-8048

See more therapy options for San Diego

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Diego, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
69% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
60% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
72% Cigna and Evernorth
56% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Diego?

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.