Therapists in Mattoon, IL

Photo of Federico Parola, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Federico Parola
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
I started my journey as a family therapist in 2017. I have been providing direct care in a variety of settings to children, adolescents and adults. My approach includes modalities that are attachment based, experiential, and trauma informed. I have experience working with clients battling with anxiety, family challenges, life transitions, and parenting.
I started my journey as a family therapist in 2017. I have been providing direct care in a variety of settings to children, adolescents and adults. My approach includes modalities that are attachment based, experiential, and trauma informed. I have experience working with clients battling with anxiety, family challenges, life transitions, and parenting.
(217) 687-1318 View (217) 687-1318
Photo of Jessica Bulthouse, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Jessica Bulthouse
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
Life is hard sometimes. Maybe you’re dealing with a difficult relationship or maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or past hurts. Maybe you feel isolated and like no one will understand what is going on inside you. Possibly you have thoughts, feelings or behaviors that you don’t want but have no idea how to change. I want you to know you are not alone. Providing a safe place where you feel accepted, heard and understood is one of my top priorities. Working together, we can better understand the reasons for the things you struggle with and empower you to handle them in a healthy way.
Life is hard sometimes. Maybe you’re dealing with a difficult relationship or maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or past hurts. Maybe you feel isolated and like no one will understand what is going on inside you. Possibly you have thoughts, feelings or behaviors that you don’t want but have no idea how to change. I want you to know you are not alone. Providing a safe place where you feel accepted, heard and understood is one of my top priorities. Working together, we can better understand the reasons for the things you struggle with and empower you to handle them in a healthy way.
(217) 582-4705 View (217) 582-4705
Photo of Angie Patton, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Angie Patton
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
Angie Patton has a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her expertise extends to addictions (food, drugs, alcohol, etc.) and codependency/family issue around addictions. Angie can work with all presenting issues for couples, individuals and families. She provides assessments for substance abuse and anger issues and is an expert public speaker.
Angie Patton has a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her expertise extends to addictions (food, drugs, alcohol, etc.) and codependency/family issue around addictions. Angie can work with all presenting issues for couples, individuals and families. She provides assessments for substance abuse and anger issues and is an expert public speaker.
(217) 724-8474 View (217) 724-8474
Photo of Carol Claxon Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Carol Claxon Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
I believe we all have the capacity to change and grow. Therapy offers a safe, supportive space to develop awareness and understanding of life experiences and provides guidance in facing the changes and challenges that can become overwhelming in our lives. It’s during these times that we can feel alone, misunderstood, and overwhelmed. I would be happy to partner with you to discover new strategies for healthy coping, challenge patterns of negative beliefs and behaviors, increase healthy relationships, and discover your strengths. I can help to provide support and resources that will lead to personal growth and fulfillment in life.
I believe we all have the capacity to change and grow. Therapy offers a safe, supportive space to develop awareness and understanding of life experiences and provides guidance in facing the changes and challenges that can become overwhelming in our lives. It’s during these times that we can feel alone, misunderstood, and overwhelmed. I would be happy to partner with you to discover new strategies for healthy coping, challenge patterns of negative beliefs and behaviors, increase healthy relationships, and discover your strengths. I can help to provide support and resources that will lead to personal growth and fulfillment in life.
(217) 203-4165 View (217) 203-4165
Photo of Alexandria E Poe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Alexandria E Poe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
Therapy can be a life changing tool that opens the door to letting go of past frustrations, gaining insight into feeling more present, or securing the readiness to take on future hurdles. Allow me to help you maneuver through life's difficulties by providing evidence based therapeutic practices, and a passion for seeing clients reach their potential. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and will work hard to help you reach your therapeutic goals.
Therapy can be a life changing tool that opens the door to letting go of past frustrations, gaining insight into feeling more present, or securing the readiness to take on future hurdles. Allow me to help you maneuver through life's difficulties by providing evidence based therapeutic practices, and a passion for seeing clients reach their potential. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and will work hard to help you reach your therapeutic goals.
(217) 387-9839 View (217) 387-9839
Photo of Alexis Dearing, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Alexis Dearing
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mattoon, IL 61938  (Online Only)
Trying to find the counselor that best suits you can be frightening. It takes courage to try to seek help. Thank you for being here. Levels of resistance and vulnerability vary, but they are both important to understand for each unique individual. Whatever you bring to therapy, that is where I will meet you. I am here for who you are, and to meet you where you are at. This perspective speaks to my eclectic role as a therapist. I analyze a client and use the research and knowledge I have to apply the best theory or approach to help my client. I focus on what the client's goals are and how to help them reach them in healthy ways.
Trying to find the counselor that best suits you can be frightening. It takes courage to try to seek help. Thank you for being here. Levels of resistance and vulnerability vary, but they are both important to understand for each unique individual. Whatever you bring to therapy, that is where I will meet you. I am here for who you are, and to meet you where you are at. This perspective speaks to my eclectic role as a therapist. I analyze a client and use the research and knowledge I have to apply the best theory or approach to help my client. I focus on what the client's goals are and how to help them reach them in healthy ways.
(618) 232-4744 View (618) 232-4744

Online Therapists

Photo of Suzanne Pearson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Suzanne Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701  (Online Only)
Therapy is a shared journey that requires trust and investment on both ends. I know that this kind of trust can take time to build. As such, I will always offer patience, understanding, and an open mind regarding anything that may be on your path. I will also always welcome your questions, curiosities, and critiques, and strive to respond in an open, honest, and direct manner. As a counselor, I recognize that our social locations and differing experiences affect our perspectives and approaches to the world, and I hold this in mind as I work with clients.
Therapy is a shared journey that requires trust and investment on both ends. I know that this kind of trust can take time to build. As such, I will always offer patience, understanding, and an open mind regarding anything that may be on your path. I will also always welcome your questions, curiosities, and critiques, and strive to respond in an open, honest, and direct manner. As a counselor, I recognize that our social locations and differing experiences affect our perspectives and approaches to the world, and I hold this in mind as I work with clients.
(720) 410-6056 View (720) 410-6056
Photo of Kate Maurer, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Kate Maurer
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
There are times for many of us when life no longer feels workable. The stress of life changes, work, or study becomes overwhelming. You might feel unable to find connection, joy, or a sense of purpose in your life, frozen by the pain of your past or uncertainty about your future. You withdraw into numbness or despair, caught in patterns that you can’t seem to break and unable to fully connect with the people and the world around you. Perhaps anxious thoughts and behaviors nag and exhaust you, driving you further from the things that you value. It feels like your own mind has become an enemy.
There are times for many of us when life no longer feels workable. The stress of life changes, work, or study becomes overwhelming. You might feel unable to find connection, joy, or a sense of purpose in your life, frozen by the pain of your past or uncertainty about your future. You withdraw into numbness or despair, caught in patterns that you can’t seem to break and unable to fully connect with the people and the world around you. Perhaps anxious thoughts and behaviors nag and exhaust you, driving you further from the things that you value. It feels like your own mind has become an enemy.
(217) 203-6303 View (217) 203-6303
Photo of Anna Farris, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Anna Farris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
First and foremost, if you are reading this, I want you to know that I see the strength it took for you to take this step in asking for help. I work with clients ages 3 and up to navigate many life challenges - whether that is reprocessing past trauma, struggling in relationships, infertility/perinatal struggles, or navigating the day to day stressors of life. Being a member of the military/veteran community, I am also passionate about working with military/veterans and their family members on the unique challenges they face in their day to day life. I hope to help each person rewrite their story into something they can be proud of.
First and foremost, if you are reading this, I want you to know that I see the strength it took for you to take this step in asking for help. I work with clients ages 3 and up to navigate many life challenges - whether that is reprocessing past trauma, struggling in relationships, infertility/perinatal struggles, or navigating the day to day stressors of life. Being a member of the military/veteran community, I am also passionate about working with military/veterans and their family members on the unique challenges they face in their day to day life. I hope to help each person rewrite their story into something they can be proud of.
(217) 599-5367 View (217) 599-5367
Photo of Jessica Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Jessica Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pekin, IL 61554
Jessica Thomas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with a Master's of Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Each person is impacted by unique challenges and empowered by individual strengths. Jessica finds it a privilege to support clients as they discover the best version of themselves and unlock their potential. Outside of work, Jessica is married and has two children that make her laugh endlessly. She loves being home, spending time outdoors, and getting together with her extended family.
Jessica Thomas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with a Master's of Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Each person is impacted by unique challenges and empowered by individual strengths. Jessica finds it a privilege to support clients as they discover the best version of themselves and unlock their potential. Outside of work, Jessica is married and has two children that make her laugh endlessly. She loves being home, spending time outdoors, and getting together with her extended family.
(309) 328-3440 View (309) 328-3440
Photo of Sean-Michael Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Sean-Michael Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
Loss is an inevitable and often painful part of life. Whether it be loss of a friendship, relationships, or loved one, the grieving process can be a daunting challenge to navigate. The pain of losing someone or something important to you may at times even feel like it’ll never go away. But, as the body is capable of hurting, so too is it capable of healing.
Loss is an inevitable and often painful part of life. Whether it be loss of a friendship, relationships, or loved one, the grieving process can be a daunting challenge to navigate. The pain of losing someone or something important to you may at times even feel like it’ll never go away. But, as the body is capable of hurting, so too is it capable of healing.
(217) 712-3873 View (217) 712-3873
Photo of Trisha Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Trisha Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
If you are looking at my profile, it is likely that you have some type of life struggle that I would be happy to help you address. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with 10+ years of experience. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from Western Illinois University (2007), and my Masters of Social Work from the University of Illinois (2009). I have worked in a residential setting with at-risk youth, an inpatient psychiatric hospital with adults and children, and in an outpatient therapy setting with clients of all ages.
If you are looking at my profile, it is likely that you have some type of life struggle that I would be happy to help you address. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with 10+ years of experience. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from Western Illinois University (2007), and my Masters of Social Work from the University of Illinois (2009). I have worked in a residential setting with at-risk youth, an inpatient psychiatric hospital with adults and children, and in an outpatient therapy setting with clients of all ages.
(217) 262-1432 View (217) 262-1432
Photo of J. 'andrew' Dewey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mattoon, IL
J. 'andrew' Dewey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
J. "Andrew" Dewey offers individual, couples, and family therapy to the Springfield area. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with six years of experience, which includes working within DCFS. Andrew is a veteran of the United States Army and has a passion for helping other veterans achieve overall wellness. Andrew is SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training) certified and is involved in advocacy for drug and alcohol policies. He hosts group therapy at the Springfield office starting March 2, 2023. It will run every Thursday in the evening.
J. "Andrew" Dewey offers individual, couples, and family therapy to the Springfield area. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with six years of experience, which includes working within DCFS. Andrew is a veteran of the United States Army and has a passion for helping other veterans achieve overall wellness. Andrew is SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training) certified and is involved in advocacy for drug and alcohol policies. He hosts group therapy at the Springfield office starting March 2, 2023. It will run every Thursday in the evening.
(217) 906-4149 View (217) 906-4149
Photo of Michele Simmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Michele Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Morton, IL 61550
Michele has an extensive history in the field of social work that provided her with a well rounded foundation for helping families and individuals as they faced life challenges and transitions. Michele had the privilege of working in Hospice, offering support and counseling through grief, loss and existential crises. Michele is a CSAT candidate and has begun her certification in Attachment-Based Family Therapy and completed Level-2 training in the Gottman Method.
Michele has an extensive history in the field of social work that provided her with a well rounded foundation for helping families and individuals as they faced life challenges and transitions. Michele had the privilege of working in Hospice, offering support and counseling through grief, loss and existential crises. Michele is a CSAT candidate and has begun her certification in Attachment-Based Family Therapy and completed Level-2 training in the Gottman Method.
(309) 263-5565 View (309) 263-5565
Photo of Hailey Ramseyer, Licensed Social Worker in Mattoon, IL
Hailey Ramseyer
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Hi there, I'm Hailey, your dedicated ally in helping you navigate the challenges of ADHD, Autism, Trauma, and anxiety. I have a genuine passion for the well-being of teenagers and young adults, and I'm here to provide you with compassionate and tailored support. Come step into a safe and inclusive space where resilience, self-discovery, and empowered mental health take center stage. I bring a wealth of experience and evidence-based interventions, uniquely crafted for each individual. Embark on a transformative journey with me, where understanding meets healing. Let's work together to foster your mental well-being and growth.
Hi there, I'm Hailey, your dedicated ally in helping you navigate the challenges of ADHD, Autism, Trauma, and anxiety. I have a genuine passion for the well-being of teenagers and young adults, and I'm here to provide you with compassionate and tailored support. Come step into a safe and inclusive space where resilience, self-discovery, and empowered mental health take center stage. I bring a wealth of experience and evidence-based interventions, uniquely crafted for each individual. Embark on a transformative journey with me, where understanding meets healing. Let's work together to foster your mental well-being and growth.
(309) 822-9004 View (309) 822-9004
Photo of Alyssa B Patton, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Alyssa B Patton
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
I enjoy working with individuals and families who are motivated to make changes and learn skills to improve their lives. I offer non-judgmental, caring and direct counseling that provides individuals and families with strategies that they can begin using immediately. I am trained and have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-injury, grief, family conflict, trauma and ADHD. In addition, I am skilled in working with children and adolescents who are experiencing problems in school and conflict with family/friends. I strive to help each individual find ways to be successful and happy with themselves.
I enjoy working with individuals and families who are motivated to make changes and learn skills to improve their lives. I offer non-judgmental, caring and direct counseling that provides individuals and families with strategies that they can begin using immediately. I am trained and have experience helping people with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-injury, grief, family conflict, trauma and ADHD. In addition, I am skilled in working with children and adolescents who are experiencing problems in school and conflict with family/friends. I strive to help each individual find ways to be successful and happy with themselves.
(217) 705-4304 View (217) 705-4304
Photo of Emily Gerber, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Emily Gerber
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Fairbury, IL 61739
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (MA, LCPC) in central Illinois. I have been working in the mental health field specializing in trauma across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults). My clinical expertise and training includes trauma focused therapy, shame and resiliency, healthy relationships, as well as working alongside foster and adoptive families. I believe therapy includes “an us.” It is an engaging and collaborative process. My hope is to provide a safe and warm environment to facilitate healing and growth.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (MA, LCPC) in central Illinois. I have been working in the mental health field specializing in trauma across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults). My clinical expertise and training includes trauma focused therapy, shame and resiliency, healthy relationships, as well as working alongside foster and adoptive families. I believe therapy includes “an us.” It is an engaging and collaborative process. My hope is to provide a safe and warm environment to facilitate healing and growth.
(309) 271-0562 View (309) 271-0562
Photo of Jasmine Conyers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Jasmine Conyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbana, IL 61802
I applaud you for taking a leap of faith, looking for a therapist who sees and appreciates you at your most vulnerable and potentially most confused state of mind. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task when you're searching for a connection beyond just treatment modalities and licenses. I understand it's more than just qualifications. My approach to healing is deeply personal; I meet you where you are and tailor my skills and treatments to help you move in the direction you desire. My own experiences have shaped me as I’ve worked through my own trauma and barriers in life, healing myself while helping others heal.
I applaud you for taking a leap of faith, looking for a therapist who sees and appreciates you at your most vulnerable and potentially most confused state of mind. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task when you're searching for a connection beyond just treatment modalities and licenses. I understand it's more than just qualifications. My approach to healing is deeply personal; I meet you where you are and tailor my skills and treatments to help you move in the direction you desire. My own experiences have shaped me as I’ve worked through my own trauma and barriers in life, healing myself while helping others heal.
(217) 885-2768 View (217) 885-2768
Photo of Jack K Richey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Jack K Richey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danville, IL 61832  (Online Only)
Each person is unique with specific needs. Could counseling work? Would it be right for you? Perhaps you have felt overwhelmed and don't know where to start. I've worked with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of issues such as difficulty with a career, depression, anxiety, stress, anger, family, relationships, self-esteem, divorce, and parenting.
Each person is unique with specific needs. Could counseling work? Would it be right for you? Perhaps you have felt overwhelmed and don't know where to start. I've worked with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of issues such as difficulty with a career, depression, anxiety, stress, anger, family, relationships, self-esteem, divorce, and parenting.
(217) 909-9187 View (217) 909-9187
Photo of Brittany M. Frost, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mattoon, IL
Brittany M. Frost
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
(217) 269-8900 View (217) 269-8900

See more therapy options for Mattoon

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mattoon, IL

< 10

Therapists in Mattoon, IL who prioritize treating:

83% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Women's Issues
67% Parenting
67% Self Esteem
67% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Health Alliance
67% Aetna

How Therapists in Mattoon, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mattoon?

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.