Therapists in Limestone County, AL

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Photo of Leslie W Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Leslie W Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Athens, AL 35611
I am Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling. I earned my B.S. in Psychology from Athens State and M.A. in Community Counseling from University of North Alabama. Prior to private practice, I worked at Riverbend Center for Mental Health, Bradford Health Services, and Alabama Psychiatric Services. I also worked as a missionary in the 9th Ward of New Orleans for 5 years and in Bangkok, Thailand for 9 years. I have a strong passion to work with those who have struggled with addiction or have been impacted by addiction. I have training and experience working with trauma, PTSD, and anger.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling. I earned my B.S. in Psychology from Athens State and M.A. in Community Counseling from University of North Alabama. Prior to private practice, I worked at Riverbend Center for Mental Health, Bradford Health Services, and Alabama Psychiatric Services. I also worked as a missionary in the 9th Ward of New Orleans for 5 years and in Bangkok, Thailand for 9 years. I have a strong passion to work with those who have struggled with addiction or have been impacted by addiction. I have training and experience working with trauma, PTSD, and anger.
(256) 633-5932 View (256) 633-5932
Photo of Halley McNeal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Limestone County, AL
Halley McNeal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35613
Integrating creativity into healing is my passion. My goal as a therapist is to cultivate a safe space where you feel comfortable bringing your own passions and interests into the session. In therapy, I'll help you to heal from your hurts and meet your goals holistically. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and their families to process issues related to trauma, attachment, self-harm/suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, anger management, divorce, grief, identity development, and life transitions.
Integrating creativity into healing is my passion. My goal as a therapist is to cultivate a safe space where you feel comfortable bringing your own passions and interests into the session. In therapy, I'll help you to heal from your hurts and meet your goals holistically. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and their families to process issues related to trauma, attachment, self-harm/suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, anger management, divorce, grief, identity development, and life transitions.
(256) 798-0421 View (256) 798-0421
Photo of Warnie Mitch Robertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Limestone County, AL
Warnie Mitch Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, D, Min, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
I have a D.Min in Family Therapy and over thirty years experience working with individuals and families regarding a variety of interest including grief issues and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus, EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness for stress reduction, Gottman Couple Therapy techniques, and Christian counseling.
I have a D.Min in Family Therapy and over thirty years experience working with individuals and families regarding a variety of interest including grief issues and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus, EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness for stress reduction, Gottman Couple Therapy techniques, and Christian counseling.
(256) 414-9147 View (256) 414-9147
Photo of Patty Wilkes Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Limestone County, AL
Patty Wilkes Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Athens, AL 35611
CALLTODAY--BE SEEN TODAY I am Patty Wilkes. I have 40 years of experience treating adults and adolescents for anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, relationship problems, and occupational issues. I am pleased to work cooperatively with your physician or attorney. I am available 24/7. Just call 256/431-5060.
CALLTODAY--BE SEEN TODAY I am Patty Wilkes. I have 40 years of experience treating adults and adolescents for anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, relationship problems, and occupational issues. I am pleased to work cooperatively with your physician or attorney. I am available 24/7. Just call 256/431-5060.
(256) 216-4865 View (256) 216-4865
Photo of Kaylie Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Kaylie Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Athens, AL 35613
Everyone goes through difficult times when they feel unsettled and unsure of the next step. I believe that every adult and child deserves the opportunity to thrive. Meadowbrook Counseling was created to help empower families by partnering evidence-based practices with real-life solutions and skills. At my core, I am person-centered and will make adjustments to my therapeutic style along the way to better fit your needs.
Everyone goes through difficult times when they feel unsettled and unsure of the next step. I believe that every adult and child deserves the opportunity to thrive. Meadowbrook Counseling was created to help empower families by partnering evidence-based practices with real-life solutions and skills. At my core, I am person-centered and will make adjustments to my therapeutic style along the way to better fit your needs.
(256) 782-9598 View (256) 782-9598
Photo of Nancy McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Limestone County, AL
Nancy McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35613
I believe in the natural ability we all have to overcome adversity. My goal is to empower you in finding your own strengths and developing additional tools that allow you to experience fullfillment and success in your life that you are looking for. As a psychotherapist, I work with clients facing mental health, emotional, and quality of life challenges. I have a strong foundation in cognitive behavioral therapy, but also apply psycholanalytical for its strengths with your individualized needs. Depression, anxiety, serious mental illness, behavioral, coping, relational and personal growth are common areas, but not the only areas focused on.
I believe in the natural ability we all have to overcome adversity. My goal is to empower you in finding your own strengths and developing additional tools that allow you to experience fullfillment and success in your life that you are looking for. As a psychotherapist, I work with clients facing mental health, emotional, and quality of life challenges. I have a strong foundation in cognitive behavioral therapy, but also apply psycholanalytical for its strengths with your individualized needs. Depression, anxiety, serious mental illness, behavioral, coping, relational and personal growth are common areas, but not the only areas focused on.
(256) 867-1428 View (256) 867-1428
Photo of Jill Gernert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Limestone County, AL
Jill Gernert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
"Courage starts with showing up and allowing yourself to be seen”– Brene Brown. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where you will be supported in healing and feel empowered to be the best version of yourself. I have experience in working with adults, children and adolescents, families and older adults. I have learned that it is most important for all of us to recognize and engage in healing past trauma, so I specialize in providing effective trauma informed care. Along with other modalities, I am trained and proficient Trauma Recovery and Empowerment (TREM) and TF-CBT, Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
"Courage starts with showing up and allowing yourself to be seen”– Brene Brown. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where you will be supported in healing and feel empowered to be the best version of yourself. I have experience in working with adults, children and adolescents, families and older adults. I have learned that it is most important for all of us to recognize and engage in healing past trauma, so I specialize in providing effective trauma informed care. Along with other modalities, I am trained and proficient Trauma Recovery and Empowerment (TREM) and TF-CBT, Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
(938) 666-8529 View (938) 666-8529
Photo of Locker McDonald in Limestone County, AL
Locker McDonald
MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
Everyone faces challenges in life. Some are external like chronic stress, or traumatic events. Over time we develop unhelpful and distorted ways of thinking that cause us to feel anxious or depressed. We then learn to cope in ways that make things worse like alcohol or scrolling through social media. There comes a time when it is necessary to talk through the stress or trauma, unlearn beliefs that are holding us back, and develop healthy ways of facing life's challenges with courage.
Everyone faces challenges in life. Some are external like chronic stress, or traumatic events. Over time we develop unhelpful and distorted ways of thinking that cause us to feel anxious or depressed. We then learn to cope in ways that make things worse like alcohol or scrolling through social media. There comes a time when it is necessary to talk through the stress or trauma, unlearn beliefs that are holding us back, and develop healthy ways of facing life's challenges with courage.
(256) 449-1060 View (256) 449-1060
Photo of Kayla Thompson, Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Kayla Thompson
Counselor, ALC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor who believes in fostering authentic connections with my clients through relatability, honesty, and empathy. With a direct yet nurturing demeanor, I guide my clients through their personal growth journey, providing support and encouragement every step of the way.
I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor who believes in fostering authentic connections with my clients through relatability, honesty, and empathy. With a direct yet nurturing demeanor, I guide my clients through their personal growth journey, providing support and encouragement every step of the way.
(256) 914-4204 View (256) 914-4204
Photo of Jenna Mudd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Jenna Mudd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Not Verified Not Verified
Madison, AL 35756  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with multiple populations (i.e. children, adolescents, and adults). I have worked with children, adolescents and their families addressing behavioral and emotional issues and those with chronic mental illness (such as Depression, Anxiety, and Schizoaffective Disorder). I have also worked inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment. I have training and background addressing issues related to mood disorders, anxiety, behavioral and emotional problems, and attention deficit disorders.
I have extensive experience working with multiple populations (i.e. children, adolescents, and adults). I have worked with children, adolescents and their families addressing behavioral and emotional issues and those with chronic mental illness (such as Depression, Anxiety, and Schizoaffective Disorder). I have also worked inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment. I have training and background addressing issues related to mood disorders, anxiety, behavioral and emotional problems, and attention deficit disorders.
(256) 305-6962 View (256) 305-6962
Photo of Melissa Glaze, Licensed Professional Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Melissa Glaze
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
You deserve to be heard and it is my belief that others should earn the right to hear your story. As an LPC, it is my mission to help hurting people feel like they have been heard. I work with all age groups using an eclectic approach to personalize treatment. I have an office in Decatur and Athens and would be happy to earn the right to hear your story.
You deserve to be heard and it is my belief that others should earn the right to hear your story. As an LPC, it is my mission to help hurting people feel like they have been heard. I work with all age groups using an eclectic approach to personalize treatment. I have an office in Decatur and Athens and would be happy to earn the right to hear your story.
(256) 724-8690 View (256) 724-8690
Photo of Hannah Hyde, Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Hannah Hyde
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences while helping you work towards positive change and healing. Whether it is trauma, anxiety, depression or just life transitions you are experiencing, I want to help you develop the tools to cope and improve your quality of life. You don’t have to stay stuck, there is hope for change. Together we can create a plan to achieve your goals. Are you ready to put in the work? If so, I look forward to working with you!
My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences while helping you work towards positive change and healing. Whether it is trauma, anxiety, depression or just life transitions you are experiencing, I want to help you develop the tools to cope and improve your quality of life. You don’t have to stay stuck, there is hope for change. Together we can create a plan to achieve your goals. Are you ready to put in the work? If so, I look forward to working with you!
(256) 884-3548 View (256) 884-3548
Glynn Cannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
Whether you are struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic event, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, or simply “feeling stuck,” I would like to try and help you. I believe that with the right guidance and through a combination of evidence-based therapeutic and practical approaches, I think you may find the peace, purpose, and fulfillment you are seeking in your life. Transforming your mental health and outlook may help you break free from limiting beliefs, negative and self-defeating thinking so you can embrace a brighter future.
Whether you are struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic event, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, or simply “feeling stuck,” I would like to try and help you. I believe that with the right guidance and through a combination of evidence-based therapeutic and practical approaches, I think you may find the peace, purpose, and fulfillment you are seeking in your life. Transforming your mental health and outlook may help you break free from limiting beliefs, negative and self-defeating thinking so you can embrace a brighter future.
(256) 629-6494 View (256) 629-6494
Photo of Brittany Van Steenis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Brittany Van Steenis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611  (Online Only)
I admire and respect the courage it takes for anyone to seek counseling for themselves. I know it isn't always easy, so I applaud you for taking the first step in your journey! I provide a safe, inclusive, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment for individuals to process their life experiences and any struggles they may be facing. I strive to empower individuals to overcome personal obstacles and offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs to help enhance your overall well-being and reach your goals. I will meet you as you are, and together we can identify your strengths and increase self-compassion.
I admire and respect the courage it takes for anyone to seek counseling for themselves. I know it isn't always easy, so I applaud you for taking the first step in your journey! I provide a safe, inclusive, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment for individuals to process their life experiences and any struggles they may be facing. I strive to empower individuals to overcome personal obstacles and offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs to help enhance your overall well-being and reach your goals. I will meet you as you are, and together we can identify your strengths and increase self-compassion.
(256) 901-8279 View (256) 901-8279
Photo of Shadora Smith in Limestone County, AL
Shadora Smith
MS, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35756  (Online Only)
Hi, I am glad you took the first step to your better tomorrow. Life has been unpredictable all of 2020. You have experienced/witnessed loss, hurt, lack, & hate on top of all the other things that life casually brings along. It has been hard to sit with yourself by yourself, but you made it! This is the year that you stop the cycle of "living an emotionally depleted life"! Today you will begin the process of creating a mental space that allows you to live free, purposed, guilty-free, hopeful, and fulfilled. I look forward to assisting you in creating a better tomorrow starting today.
Hi, I am glad you took the first step to your better tomorrow. Life has been unpredictable all of 2020. You have experienced/witnessed loss, hurt, lack, & hate on top of all the other things that life casually brings along. It has been hard to sit with yourself by yourself, but you made it! This is the year that you stop the cycle of "living an emotionally depleted life"! Today you will begin the process of creating a mental space that allows you to live free, purposed, guilty-free, hopeful, and fulfilled. I look forward to assisting you in creating a better tomorrow starting today.
(256) 464-1245 View (256) 464-1245
Photo of Raven Bowman, Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Raven Bowman
Counselor, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, AL 35739  (Online Only)
You may have always felt like an outsider, but there’s still an innate human desire to find comfort and companionship. You shouldn’t feel judged for your interests, career, or hobbies, but rather, embrace them as an important component of your life. However, it can be difficult to find someone who mutually experiences your love of "nerdy" things. Perhaps you’ve tried therapy before, but felt like your counselor just didn’t get you. You’re not alone. Whether you identify as a geek, nerd, gamer, techie, or another non-mainstream identity, it is an exhausting experience to comb through the profiles of therapists.
You may have always felt like an outsider, but there’s still an innate human desire to find comfort and companionship. You shouldn’t feel judged for your interests, career, or hobbies, but rather, embrace them as an important component of your life. However, it can be difficult to find someone who mutually experiences your love of "nerdy" things. Perhaps you’ve tried therapy before, but felt like your counselor just didn’t get you. You’re not alone. Whether you identify as a geek, nerd, gamer, techie, or another non-mainstream identity, it is an exhausting experience to comb through the profiles of therapists.
(931) 298-9002 View (931) 298-9002
Photo of Alicia Winkle Davila, Licensed Professional Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Alicia Winkle Davila
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
Hi! I'm Alicia. I am a LPC-S in Alabama and an LPC in Georgia. I also am a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider. I have worked with all populations and believe that the key to therapy with any person is respect. I aim to help clients work through their problems to have a more enjoyable life. I use an integrative therapy approaching incorporating person centered therapy techniques (focuses on building strong rapport and respect between client and therapist) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in order to assist clients in making their thinking more positive and decrease negative thinking habits. I also
Hi! I'm Alicia. I am a LPC-S in Alabama and an LPC in Georgia. I also am a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider. I have worked with all populations and believe that the key to therapy with any person is respect. I aim to help clients work through their problems to have a more enjoyable life. I use an integrative therapy approaching incorporating person centered therapy techniques (focuses on building strong rapport and respect between client and therapist) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in order to assist clients in making their thinking more positive and decrease negative thinking habits. I also
(256) 384-0800 View (256) 384-0800
Photo of Maria Stansbury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Limestone County, AL
Maria Stansbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Athens, AL 35611
Si estas en Alabama y buscas evaluacion y tratamiento profesional de psicologia, en Espanol, en mi encontras una profesional capacitada pero que ayuda desde su corazon. Necesitas tratamiento contra la ansiedad, depresion, problemas de conducta de ninos y jovenes, vicios, divorcio, o adulterio? Sospechas o tienes un diagnostico nuevo de Esquizofrenia, Bipolar, Personalidad de Limited, Autismo o Deficiencia de Atencion e Hiperactividad? Necesitas evaluaciones y tratamiento psicologico para corte de immigracion? Yo ofrezco todos esos servicios a precios razonables. Tengo horarios de manana, tarde y noche, en persona y virtual. Llamame
Si estas en Alabama y buscas evaluacion y tratamiento profesional de psicologia, en Espanol, en mi encontras una profesional capacitada pero que ayuda desde su corazon. Necesitas tratamiento contra la ansiedad, depresion, problemas de conducta de ninos y jovenes, vicios, divorcio, o adulterio? Sospechas o tienes un diagnostico nuevo de Esquizofrenia, Bipolar, Personalidad de Limited, Autismo o Deficiencia de Atencion e Hiperactividad? Necesitas evaluaciones y tratamiento psicologico para corte de immigracion? Yo ofrezco todos esos servicios a precios razonables. Tengo horarios de manana, tarde y noche, en persona y virtual. Llamame
(256) 649-6665 View (256) 649-6665
Photo of Pearl Behavioral Health Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Limestone County, AL
Pearl Behavioral Health Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
Pearl Behavioral Health Services is founded on the belief that anyone is capable of change and can benefit from support from a non biased source and nonjudgmental environment where you can truly remove your filter and work through anything you are struggling with. Our team of 8 licensed counselors and two locations in Athens and Huntsville can help you work through any struggles you are having.
Pearl Behavioral Health Services is founded on the belief that anyone is capable of change and can benefit from support from a non biased source and nonjudgmental environment where you can truly remove your filter and work through anything you are struggling with. Our team of 8 licensed counselors and two locations in Athens and Huntsville can help you work through any struggles you are having.
(938) 777-0250 View (938) 777-0250
Photo of Kelli Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Limestone County, AL
Kelli Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
Not accepting new clients
Life is messy. We all have a story. If you are reading this, you may be struggling as we all can at times. The thought of seeking counseling can be scary. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience in helping those struggling to find balance again. I will not only listen to your story but provide you with the tools to help you regain control of your life.
Life is messy. We all have a story. If you are reading this, you may be struggling as we all can at times. The thought of seeking counseling can be scary. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience in helping those struggling to find balance again. I will not only listen to your story but provide you with the tools to help you regain control of your life.
(256) 588-4019 View (256) 588-4019

See more therapy options for Limestone County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Limestone County, AL

90+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Limestone County, AL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
84% Coping Skills
83% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
74% Stress
70% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
48% Cigna and Evernorth
48% New Directions | Lucet

How Therapists in Limestone County, AL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Limestone County?

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.