Therapists in Fayetteville, NC

Photo of Ruth A Sterbach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Ruth A Sterbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
As your therapist: I will not try to fix you, give you advice, tell you what to do, pretend I know you more than you know yourself, assume what is best for you, have all the answers, or make the bad stuff go away. Instead, as your therapist I will: Remind you that you are not broken, give you room to access your own wisdom, support you in figuring out what to do, recognize that you are your own life expert, remember that I do not know what is best for you, honor that I do not know it all, and collaborate with you on how to make the hard stuff easier to sit with.
As your therapist: I will not try to fix you, give you advice, tell you what to do, pretend I know you more than you know yourself, assume what is best for you, have all the answers, or make the bad stuff go away. Instead, as your therapist I will: Remind you that you are not broken, give you room to access your own wisdom, support you in figuring out what to do, recognize that you are your own life expert, remember that I do not know what is best for you, honor that I do not know it all, and collaborate with you on how to make the hard stuff easier to sit with.
(910) 312-2492 View (910) 312-2492
Photo of Dawn Shea-Frick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Dawn Shea-Frick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed, depressed or disconnected and wanting to make lasting change in your life and relationships? Feel like you have tried everything you know to do? Still nothing seems to work and you just want to feel better. I believe that many symptoms and problems are actually survival strategies that emerge from our need to cope with the hardships of life. These could be depression, shame, perfectionism and fear of rejection to name a few. My passion is helping people identify and understand their survival strategies and create new patterns that improve their lives and connection to self and others.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed, depressed or disconnected and wanting to make lasting change in your life and relationships? Feel like you have tried everything you know to do? Still nothing seems to work and you just want to feel better. I believe that many symptoms and problems are actually survival strategies that emerge from our need to cope with the hardships of life. These could be depression, shame, perfectionism and fear of rejection to name a few. My passion is helping people identify and understand their survival strategies and create new patterns that improve their lives and connection to self and others.
(910) 797-4404 View (910) 797-4404
Photo of Richard Charles Kurr, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Richard Charles Kurr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI, ICAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
I specialize in trauma and addictive use disorders. I often work with all populations and concerns from the age of thirteen and above. Other counseling work I perform is family, couples, and LGBTQA+ concerns. I believe strongly in a people-first approach! We are all endowed with great resiliency and strength. I want to help you realize your potential, overcome challenges, and feel empowered to deal with future obstacles. The aim of every good therapist is to encourage autonomy and self-reliance. Ofrezco psicoterapia en Español.
I specialize in trauma and addictive use disorders. I often work with all populations and concerns from the age of thirteen and above. Other counseling work I perform is family, couples, and LGBTQA+ concerns. I believe strongly in a people-first approach! We are all endowed with great resiliency and strength. I want to help you realize your potential, overcome challenges, and feel empowered to deal with future obstacles. The aim of every good therapist is to encourage autonomy and self-reliance. Ofrezco psicoterapia en Español.
(910) 247-9050 View (910) 247-9050
Photo of Odyessey Webb, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Odyessey Webb
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
We all can experience a range of emotions, from fear and excitement to exhilaration and anticipation as we navigate the twists and turns of the ride. Whether you or a family member are grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, family-related concerns, or other emotional and psychological obstacles, rest assured that I am here to offer my support. My unwavering commitment to assisting others has always been a driving force in my life. My mission is to address your Behavioral Health and Counseling needs with genuine empathy and steadfast commitment to providing high-quality care.
We all can experience a range of emotions, from fear and excitement to exhilaration and anticipation as we navigate the twists and turns of the ride. Whether you or a family member are grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, family-related concerns, or other emotional and psychological obstacles, rest assured that I am here to offer my support. My unwavering commitment to assisting others has always been a driving force in my life. My mission is to address your Behavioral Health and Counseling needs with genuine empathy and steadfast commitment to providing high-quality care.
(910) 485-6336 View (910) 485-6336
Photo of Sitonja Valenzuela, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Sitonja Valenzuela
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
Happy New Year and Welcome! I provide mental health counseling for individuals in North Carolina specializing in helping clients with depression and body image issues. I primarily help clients who are struggling with self-love and have negative, harmful relationships with their bodies. I help clients develop a new and healthy relationship with their bodies. In session, I seek to learn more about thoughts and behaviors as well as the role that they play with their emotions. I believe wholeheartedly that each client has everything they need within and around them to heal.
Happy New Year and Welcome! I provide mental health counseling for individuals in North Carolina specializing in helping clients with depression and body image issues. I primarily help clients who are struggling with self-love and have negative, harmful relationships with their bodies. I help clients develop a new and healthy relationship with their bodies. In session, I seek to learn more about thoughts and behaviors as well as the role that they play with their emotions. I believe wholeheartedly that each client has everything they need within and around them to heal.
(910) 541-5640 View (910) 541-5640
Photo of Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CSOTP, TFCBT, NCCPE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC (CCCS) is a counseling and consulting agency dedicated to clinician development and mental health treatment. Although CCCS specializes in treatment for sex offenders, individuals with problematic sexualized behavior, and victims of trauma, the agency also provides specialized outpatient therapy, employee assistance services, and services for individuals suffering from addiction. Parenting education classes are also available to assist parents with managing and coping with their children and/or adolescent behavioral deficits, addictions, and/or mental health disorder(s).
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC (CCCS) is a counseling and consulting agency dedicated to clinician development and mental health treatment. Although CCCS specializes in treatment for sex offenders, individuals with problematic sexualized behavior, and victims of trauma, the agency also provides specialized outpatient therapy, employee assistance services, and services for individuals suffering from addiction. Parenting education classes are also available to assist parents with managing and coping with their children and/or adolescent behavioral deficits, addictions, and/or mental health disorder(s).
(910) 401-2998 View (910) 401-2998
Photo of Kristina Gordon, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Kristina Gordon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314
Life doesn’t always go as planned, and sometimes the path forward is too uncertain or scary to navigate alone. I want to help you find a pathway out of the darkness of anxiety, anger, or depression. I want to give you the support and empathetic guidance you need to make it through the difficulties you’re facing and embrace your bad-ass, confident self. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves, and a more positive outlook on challenges that they may face. I believe that every person’s path is their own, and I want to provide a judgement-free space where you can find your way to the light.
Life doesn’t always go as planned, and sometimes the path forward is too uncertain or scary to navigate alone. I want to help you find a pathway out of the darkness of anxiety, anger, or depression. I want to give you the support and empathetic guidance you need to make it through the difficulties you’re facing and embrace your bad-ass, confident self. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves, and a more positive outlook on challenges that they may face. I believe that every person’s path is their own, and I want to provide a judgement-free space where you can find your way to the light.
(910) 634-6714 View (910) 634-6714
Photo of Dr. Joy McNeil, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Dr. Joy McNeil
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, TFCBT
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you struggle with perfectionism, overanalysis, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression? Perhaps you don't know how to turn off your brain. Perhaps you struggle with feelings of failure. Maybe you've discovered that you're tired constantly but unable to rest and relax. Have you ever completed a project successfully and continued to be hypercritical of yourself? Do you find yourself doubting your abilities, playing down your strengths? It's time to reestablish your intention for being here - on planet earth. What is your purpose? What is your why?
Do you struggle with perfectionism, overanalysis, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression? Perhaps you don't know how to turn off your brain. Perhaps you struggle with feelings of failure. Maybe you've discovered that you're tired constantly but unable to rest and relax. Have you ever completed a project successfully and continued to be hypercritical of yourself? Do you find yourself doubting your abilities, playing down your strengths? It's time to reestablish your intention for being here - on planet earth. What is your purpose? What is your why?
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Photo of Patricia T Hanley, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Fayetteville, NC
Patricia T Hanley
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC, EMDR AC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm full! Please check back later when I have more openings come up. Clients: I can provide a safe, confidential, unbiased space for you to express your feelings, and resolve your challenges. EMDR Therapy is my main approach, having over 9 years experience and great success with a variety of client presentations. I am an EMDR Approved Consultant and Trainer so can provide consultation towards Certification and CIT to basic trained clinicians.
I'm full! Please check back later when I have more openings come up. Clients: I can provide a safe, confidential, unbiased space for you to express your feelings, and resolve your challenges. EMDR Therapy is my main approach, having over 9 years experience and great success with a variety of client presentations. I am an EMDR Approved Consultant and Trainer so can provide consultation towards Certification and CIT to basic trained clinicians.
(910) 459-4986 View (910) 459-4986
Photo of Diona Patrice Covington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Diona Patrice Covington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my purpose is to guide individuals on a transformative journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery. I believe that everyone possesses the innate strength and resilience to overcome life's challenges, and my role is to empower my clients to tap into their own potential.
As a therapist, my purpose is to guide individuals on a transformative journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery. I believe that everyone possesses the innate strength and resilience to overcome life's challenges, and my role is to empower my clients to tap into their own potential.
(910) 857-5102 View (910) 857-5102
Photo of Jeffrey Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Jeffrey Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Waitlist for new clients
As your therapist, I cannot change how a person acts or reacts to situations, I will not try to fix you, or know what exactly you are going through or feeling. As your therapist, I will try to help you find your own strength, to give you a safe place to discuss what is going on in your life, and support you in finding your correct path forward. As your therapist, I will not assume what is best for you or judge why you are seeking therapy. During this process, I will always remember that you are your own expert but will collaborate with you on how to make the hard aspects of your life a bit easier.
As your therapist, I cannot change how a person acts or reacts to situations, I will not try to fix you, or know what exactly you are going through or feeling. As your therapist, I will try to help you find your own strength, to give you a safe place to discuss what is going on in your life, and support you in finding your correct path forward. As your therapist, I will not assume what is best for you or judge why you are seeking therapy. During this process, I will always remember that you are your own expert but will collaborate with you on how to make the hard aspects of your life a bit easier.
(910) 460-3904 View (910) 460-3904
Photo of Darlene Maryalice Hopkins, Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Darlene Maryalice Hopkins
Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
The Best Things in Life: Love, family, happy children, faith, meaningful work, relationships, career success, health and security. When our good lives are interrupted by STRESS, confusion or conflict; we need a listening ear. We need to see a path leading to answers and relief.
The Best Things in Life: Love, family, happy children, faith, meaningful work, relationships, career success, health and security. When our good lives are interrupted by STRESS, confusion or conflict; we need a listening ear. We need to see a path leading to answers and relief.
(910) 543-1816 View (910) 543-1816
Photo of Matt Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Matt Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303  (Online Only)
I have spent the last 5 1/2 years working in a clinic that served military families, and I am passionate about treating service members, veterans and military families. I am especially skilled in assessing and treating PTSD through Prolonged Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or Cognitive Processing Therapy. In addition to PTSD, I am experienced with couples therapy as well as treating depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, substance use or co-occurring disorders. My professional history includes outpatient private practice with children, adolescents and adults and in inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
I have spent the last 5 1/2 years working in a clinic that served military families, and I am passionate about treating service members, veterans and military families. I am especially skilled in assessing and treating PTSD through Prolonged Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or Cognitive Processing Therapy. In addition to PTSD, I am experienced with couples therapy as well as treating depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, substance use or co-occurring disorders. My professional history includes outpatient private practice with children, adolescents and adults and in inpatient psychiatric hospitals.
(910) 708-4549 View (910) 708-4549
Photo of Mindapth Health - Fayetteville, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Mindapth Health - Fayetteville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
Mindpath Health is a leading provider of high-quality outpatient mental health care, offering in-person and online visits. We provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapy.
(855) 698-1551 View (855) 698-1551
Photo of Eva Schildhause, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Eva Schildhause
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Waitlist for new clients
Something feels off in your life. You're frustrated. You're struggling to understand your sadness, anxiety, or anger. You're having difficulty in relationships. You're feeling stuck and can't figure out why. There are reasons for the way you are. The type of therapy I do can help you sort through what's going on and come to know and understand yourself in new ways.
Something feels off in your life. You're frustrated. You're struggling to understand your sadness, anxiety, or anger. You're having difficulty in relationships. You're feeling stuck and can't figure out why. There are reasons for the way you are. The type of therapy I do can help you sort through what's going on and come to know and understand yourself in new ways.
(904) 320-0634 View (904) 320-0634
Photo of Wang Psychological Services PLLC, Psychologist in Fayetteville, NC
Wang Psychological Services PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P, LP, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, anger, anxiety, or major life changes? You don’t have to handle everything on your own, that’s why we’re here to help. Let’s get you back to a place of fulfillment, self-discovery, and acceptance. We are licensed Psychologists and Clinical Mental Health Counselor. We are here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Our goal for therapy is to help and empower you to use your strengths to find new ways of coping with life's challenges.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, anger, anxiety, or major life changes? You don’t have to handle everything on your own, that’s why we’re here to help. Let’s get you back to a place of fulfillment, self-discovery, and acceptance. We are licensed Psychologists and Clinical Mental Health Counselor. We are here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Our goal for therapy is to help and empower you to use your strengths to find new ways of coping with life's challenges.
(910) 238-3609 View (910) 238-3609
Photo of Teresa Capers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Teresa Capers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301  (Online Only)
Teresa Capers is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of South Carolina. Teresa has a passion for alleviating the effects of anxiety, adjustment disorders, and depression in adults. She has over 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with both mental illness and substance use.
Teresa Capers is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of South Carolina. Teresa has a passion for alleviating the effects of anxiety, adjustment disorders, and depression in adults. She has over 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with both mental illness and substance use.
(910) 807-8185 View (910) 807-8185
Photo of Lisette Deese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Lisette Deese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
(919) 666-2045 View (919) 666-2045
Photo of Erica Clemons-manuel, Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Erica Clemons-manuel
Counselor, MA, LPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
If you continue to do the same things, you will receive the same results. My counseling experience range from working with at risk youth, dual diagnoses and the military, as service members and families cope with issues related to deployment and reintegration.
If you continue to do the same things, you will receive the same results. My counseling experience range from working with at risk youth, dual diagnoses and the military, as service members and families cope with issues related to deployment and reintegration.
(910) 212-3463 View (910) 212-3463
Photo of Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMHC, LMFT, MSW, LCAS, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
(910) 483-5884 View (910) 483-5884

See more therapy options for Fayetteville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fayetteville, NC

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Fayetteville, NC who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Coping Skills
74% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Aetna
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Fayetteville, NC see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fayetteville?

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.