Therapists in Kirkland, WA

View neighborhoods in Kirkland
Photo of France Dutra, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
France Dutra
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Not accepting new clients
It takes courage to seek help. You have taken the first step. My main goal is to listen to you and understand your specific needs, tailoring a treatment that is going to free you from fears and shame and bring out the very best you, the real you, the only you that deserves to walk the path. I’m excited to walk with you on your journey to healing and growth. I am a licensed mental health counselor and eating disorder specialist providing individual, couples and group therapy for the past 11 years, focusing on whole-person-care. I am a Christian and I love to integrate faith into the healing process to those interested.
It takes courage to seek help. You have taken the first step. My main goal is to listen to you and understand your specific needs, tailoring a treatment that is going to free you from fears and shame and bring out the very best you, the real you, the only you that deserves to walk the path. I’m excited to walk with you on your journey to healing and growth. I am a licensed mental health counselor and eating disorder specialist providing individual, couples and group therapy for the past 11 years, focusing on whole-person-care. I am a Christian and I love to integrate faith into the healing process to those interested.
(425) 629-0436 View (425) 629-0436
Photo of Emily West, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Emily West
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I work with clients representing many ages and identities who experience issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, identity exploration and life changes. My therapeutic style is warm, accepting, and collaborative. I bring commitment to cultural sensitivity and social justice to my work, respecting that our lives are connected to and shaped by multiple cultural, communal, and societal influences. I value helping clients find their own best answers to challenges, understand how past experiences impact present life, engage in healing and find personal sources of creativity, health, happiness, and hope.
I work with clients representing many ages and identities who experience issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, identity exploration and life changes. My therapeutic style is warm, accepting, and collaborative. I bring commitment to cultural sensitivity and social justice to my work, respecting that our lives are connected to and shaped by multiple cultural, communal, and societal influences. I value helping clients find their own best answers to challenges, understand how past experiences impact present life, engage in healing and find personal sources of creativity, health, happiness, and hope.
(425) 585-2872 x48 View (425) 585-2872 x48
Photo of Linden Griffith, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Linden Griffith
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Linden Griffith, and I'm here to help you find answers to the big question: "Who am I?" As a counselor, I specialize in guiding people through identity crises, life transitions (breakups, career changes, sickness, etc.), and spiritual exploration. I understand how confusing and overwhelming it can be to figure out your place in the world. That's why I've committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings about how you want to live YOUR life.
Hello, I'm Linden Griffith, and I'm here to help you find answers to the big question: "Who am I?" As a counselor, I specialize in guiding people through identity crises, life transitions (breakups, career changes, sickness, etc.), and spiritual exploration. I understand how confusing and overwhelming it can be to figure out your place in the world. That's why I've committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings about how you want to live YOUR life.
(425) 310-4716 View (425) 310-4716
Photo of Kaye Kumiko Michalak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Kaye Kumiko Michalak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
I believe that we as humans are multifaceted and contain multitudes. Everything in life is a balancing act, between all of yourselves, those who you are close to, the environment around you and the culture of which you identify with and are from. It's easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. You are the navigator of your own life and when we work together you are welcome to let go of outside expectations and discuss what you want to move through your life as your most honest, comfortable, and authentic self everyday.
I believe that we as humans are multifaceted and contain multitudes. Everything in life is a balancing act, between all of yourselves, those who you are close to, the environment around you and the culture of which you identify with and are from. It's easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. You are the navigator of your own life and when we work together you are welcome to let go of outside expectations and discuss what you want to move through your life as your most honest, comfortable, and authentic self everyday.
(425) 640-7009 x9058 View (425) 640-7009 x9058
Photo of Shaya Schaedler, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Shaya Schaedler
Counselor, M Ed, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
I am an open and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and have provided individual counseling to clients since 2019. I specialize in working with athletes and LGBTQ+ populations, particularly queer and non-binary adolescents/young adults as well as providing gender affirming care.
I am an open and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and have provided individual counseling to clients since 2019. I specialize in working with athletes and LGBTQ+ populations, particularly queer and non-binary adolescents/young adults as well as providing gender affirming care.
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Photo of Shauna Fithian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Shauna Fithian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Welcome to the first step on your path to healing—whether it's for yourself, your child, or your family. As a licensed psychotherapist with specialized training in trauma, I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment to explore the complexities of your life and relationships. My approach integrates the empowering principles of cognitive behavior therapy, family systems therapy, and attachment theory, all from a strengths-based perspective.
Welcome to the first step on your path to healing—whether it's for yourself, your child, or your family. As a licensed psychotherapist with specialized training in trauma, I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment to explore the complexities of your life and relationships. My approach integrates the empowering principles of cognitive behavior therapy, family systems therapy, and attachment theory, all from a strengths-based perspective.
(206) 984-1466 View (206) 984-1466
Photo of Hannah Rea, Psychologist in Kirkland, WA
Hannah Rea
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations with a strength-based perspective to provide families with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations with a strength-based perspective to provide families with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns.
(425) 842-2494 View (425) 842-2494
Photo of Rebecca L. Waterston, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Rebecca L. Waterston
Counselor, LMHC, SUDPT, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Rebecca has over 10 years mental health counseling successfully working with individuals impacted by trauma, anxiety or depression, relationship challenges, or difficulty with substances. Ms. Waterston has specialty training in trauma treatments, anxiety and depression, and support for families living with addiction. Rebecca understands firsthand the pathway to long-term recovery with 18 years of recovery herself. The combination of her clinical training and her personal experience makes her uniquely qualified to help people wishing to pull themselves out of these struggles.
Rebecca has over 10 years mental health counseling successfully working with individuals impacted by trauma, anxiety or depression, relationship challenges, or difficulty with substances. Ms. Waterston has specialty training in trauma treatments, anxiety and depression, and support for families living with addiction. Rebecca understands firsthand the pathway to long-term recovery with 18 years of recovery herself. The combination of her clinical training and her personal experience makes her uniquely qualified to help people wishing to pull themselves out of these struggles.
(425) 510-0043 View (425) 510-0043
Photo of Your Story Therapy, PLLC, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Your Story Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
If you are viewing this page, you have already stepped out on the courageous journey of discovery and healing. I am here to journey with you and offer a place where you can be deeply seen, known, and accepted as you grow and discover your authentic voice. I can help you understand what has happened in your story and how to transform some of your stuck or painful places into new ways of being that create freedom and joy. We will explore both your brokenness and your strengths, freeing you to find, love and be your best self.
If you are viewing this page, you have already stepped out on the courageous journey of discovery and healing. I am here to journey with you and offer a place where you can be deeply seen, known, and accepted as you grow and discover your authentic voice. I can help you understand what has happened in your story and how to transform some of your stuck or painful places into new ways of being that create freedom and joy. We will explore both your brokenness and your strengths, freeing you to find, love and be your best self.
(206) 203-3503 View (206) 203-3503
Photo of Joanna Behl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Joanna Behl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or anxious due to the daily demands of life, work, and social situations? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help you find a brighter path forward. I understand that navigating stress, burnout, social anxiety, and the pressures of work can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. But I want you to know that there is hope, and together, we can overcome these challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or anxious due to the daily demands of life, work, and social situations? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help you find a brighter path forward. I understand that navigating stress, burnout, social anxiety, and the pressures of work can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. But I want you to know that there is hope, and together, we can overcome these challenges.
(214) 983-3076 View (214) 983-3076
Photo of Amanda Kieser, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Amanda Kieser
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Sending you the best on your therapy journey! I work with women, non-binary people, and gender expansive individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the impacts of previous trauma. I have specialized experience treating clients with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns as well. I particularly love client work that engages in identity exploration, reflecting on and healing attachment styles, and reparenting. While I am grateful for the accessibility to therapy that telehealth provides, I strongly prefer to meet with clients in person, as I find it to be exceptionally effective.
Sending you the best on your therapy journey! I work with women, non-binary people, and gender expansive individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the impacts of previous trauma. I have specialized experience treating clients with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns as well. I particularly love client work that engages in identity exploration, reflecting on and healing attachment styles, and reparenting. While I am grateful for the accessibility to therapy that telehealth provides, I strongly prefer to meet with clients in person, as I find it to be exceptionally effective.
(425) 600-1330 View (425) 600-1330
Photo of Melanie Vallee, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Melanie Vallee
Counselor, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with teens, adults, couples and families, and I believe in the healing power of relationships: no matter the wounds, if all parties are willing to heal, I will help. In today’s changing environment, we are often disconnected and fragmented; this can be seen and felt on both micro and macro levels, contributing to high levels of stress and anxiety. I am fiercely committed to restoring essential connections in our relationships with one another, our environment and mother earth. One of my primary goals is helping others achieve optimal performance in personal, relational, and professional areas of one’s life.
I enjoy working with teens, adults, couples and families, and I believe in the healing power of relationships: no matter the wounds, if all parties are willing to heal, I will help. In today’s changing environment, we are often disconnected and fragmented; this can be seen and felt on both micro and macro levels, contributing to high levels of stress and anxiety. I am fiercely committed to restoring essential connections in our relationships with one another, our environment and mother earth. One of my primary goals is helping others achieve optimal performance in personal, relational, and professional areas of one’s life.
(425) 998-9243 View (425) 998-9243
Photo of Kamilia D Dunsky, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Kamilia D Dunsky
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist in practice since 1995, offering psychotherapy and consultation services to adults and older adults experiencing distress in their struggle with life challenges. I serve individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, painful losses, relationship challenges, medical problems, caregiver stress and grieving the end of life. Together we strategize to help you to better manage immediate concerns, while exploring enduring patterns that may limit your capacity to enjoy satisfying relationships and a meaningful engagement in life.
I am a licensed therapist in practice since 1995, offering psychotherapy and consultation services to adults and older adults experiencing distress in their struggle with life challenges. I serve individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, painful losses, relationship challenges, medical problems, caregiver stress and grieving the end of life. Together we strategize to help you to better manage immediate concerns, while exploring enduring patterns that may limit your capacity to enjoy satisfying relationships and a meaningful engagement in life.
(360) 234-3518 View (360) 234-3518
Photo of Dena Nichols, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Dena Nichols
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Not accepting new clients
Have you or a family member been struggling with discouragement, worry, sadness or loss? Are you feeling lonely instead of close to others? Perhaps your facing significant parenting or relationship challenges. I provide support, insight, solutions and hope through these and other challenges. My working syle is collaborative, interactive, warm and supportive. My experience includes the following areas: abuse, ADD/ADHD, addiction, adjusting to transition, adolescent issues, adoption, anxiey, chronic illness, communication struggles, depression, grief/loss, infertility, faith issues, miscarriage, parenting, premarital counseling, relational conficts, school and social difficulties and more.
Have you or a family member been struggling with discouragement, worry, sadness or loss? Are you feeling lonely instead of close to others? Perhaps your facing significant parenting or relationship challenges. I provide support, insight, solutions and hope through these and other challenges. My working syle is collaborative, interactive, warm and supportive. My experience includes the following areas: abuse, ADD/ADHD, addiction, adjusting to transition, adolescent issues, adoption, anxiey, chronic illness, communication struggles, depression, grief/loss, infertility, faith issues, miscarriage, parenting, premarital counseling, relational conficts, school and social difficulties and more.
(425) 610-9862 View (425) 610-9862
Photo of Hallie Condit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kirkland, WA
Hallie Condit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Are you looking for a compassionate, skillful therapist to help you overcome your fears and worries? I work with people with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and hair pulling problems. I can help you change the thoughts and behaviors that lead to having distressing feelings and symptoms. This will help you feel more in control of your life. I provide a personalized approach tailored to your needs. To learn more about my services, please visit my website at www.EastsideCounselingServices.com.
Are you looking for a compassionate, skillful therapist to help you overcome your fears and worries? I work with people with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and hair pulling problems. I can help you change the thoughts and behaviors that lead to having distressing feelings and symptoms. This will help you feel more in control of your life. I provide a personalized approach tailored to your needs. To learn more about my services, please visit my website at www.EastsideCounselingServices.com.
(425) 947-5737 View (425) 947-5737
Photo of Jess Dekker, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Jess Dekker
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
I am licensed mental health counselor associate; however, I am also a wife, a mother, a stepmother, a daughter, and a friend. Each role is deeply significant to me and brings immense value to my life. My approach to therapy is informed as much by my formal training as it is by perspectives gained in these roles. I work with people who are walking through faith deconstruction and working to find identity outside of a belief system, parent/caregiver support, and those walking through life transitions. I believe that a large contributor of our suffering is the mismatch between our expectations and reality.
I am licensed mental health counselor associate; however, I am also a wife, a mother, a stepmother, a daughter, and a friend. Each role is deeply significant to me and brings immense value to my life. My approach to therapy is informed as much by my formal training as it is by perspectives gained in these roles. I work with people who are walking through faith deconstruction and working to find identity outside of a belief system, parent/caregiver support, and those walking through life transitions. I believe that a large contributor of our suffering is the mismatch between our expectations and reality.
(206) 312-4931 View (206) 312-4931
Photo of Beth Hirnle, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Beth Hirnle
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in working with adolescents and adults. I often work with people who have experienced or currently are experiencing a wide variety of concerns. Some of these include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, transitions and other life stages, job dissatisfaction, low self esteem, histories of past abuse, divorce, parenting issues, ADD/ADHD, and issues connected with gender, sexuality or teenage pregnancy. I am supportive, direct and like to use humor. I often utilize a pragmatic approach in which you learn specific tools to deal with negative and stressful thoughts that often run through your mind.
I have extensive experience in working with adolescents and adults. I often work with people who have experienced or currently are experiencing a wide variety of concerns. Some of these include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, transitions and other life stages, job dissatisfaction, low self esteem, histories of past abuse, divorce, parenting issues, ADD/ADHD, and issues connected with gender, sexuality or teenage pregnancy. I am supportive, direct and like to use humor. I often utilize a pragmatic approach in which you learn specific tools to deal with negative and stressful thoughts that often run through your mind.
(425) 361-0985 View (425) 361-0985
Photo of Leanne Konzelman, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Leanne Konzelman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to maintain a healthy relationship, find yourself easily overwhelmed in life or lacking confidence in your own abilities? I am passionate about helping clients live life to the fullest. As a mental health counselor, I am committed to developing a positive and helpful partnership with each client during the therapy process. Working with individuals and couples, I look at how our environment, life experience, and current relationships affect choices and decisions made. I am trained in Parental care, and specialize in postpartum anxiety and depression. I also work with couples who are married, engaged or dating.
Are you struggling to maintain a healthy relationship, find yourself easily overwhelmed in life or lacking confidence in your own abilities? I am passionate about helping clients live life to the fullest. As a mental health counselor, I am committed to developing a positive and helpful partnership with each client during the therapy process. Working with individuals and couples, I look at how our environment, life experience, and current relationships affect choices and decisions made. I am trained in Parental care, and specialize in postpartum anxiety and depression. I also work with couples who are married, engaged or dating.
(206) 966-6369 View (206) 966-6369
Photo of Kelly Herzberg, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Kelly Herzberg
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I focus on supporting people through life transitions including divorce, fertility, and grief/loss. I work with people who are experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and blocked creativity. I help my clients explore their identity – who they have been, who they are now, and who they want to be. My style as a therapist is warm, compassionate, and relational. I bring creativity, humor, and depth to my sessions at Self Space and I believe honesty and empathy are the foundation for healing.
I focus on supporting people through life transitions including divorce, fertility, and grief/loss. I work with people who are experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and blocked creativity. I help my clients explore their identity – who they have been, who they are now, and who they want to be. My style as a therapist is warm, compassionate, and relational. I bring creativity, humor, and depth to my sessions at Self Space and I believe honesty and empathy are the foundation for healing.
(206) 866-2767 View (206) 866-2767
Photo of Shana Olmstead, Counselor in Kirkland, WA
Shana Olmstead
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
If you are feeling anxious, or struggling to know and express how you feel, therapy is a great place to start. It can be hard to trust yourself, and believe you are worthy. You may feel guilty speaking up for yourself or taking time for self care. It can be hard to feel better on your own. Your challenges can't be solved by doing the same things you've always done. I believe everyone is their own best healer, but it can be hard without support. I can help you discover why you feel the way you do, help you believe you are worth committing to change, and find practical ways to feel better and move forward in your life.
If you are feeling anxious, or struggling to know and express how you feel, therapy is a great place to start. It can be hard to trust yourself, and believe you are worthy. You may feel guilty speaking up for yourself or taking time for self care. It can be hard to feel better on your own. Your challenges can't be solved by doing the same things you've always done. I believe everyone is their own best healer, but it can be hard without support. I can help you discover why you feel the way you do, help you believe you are worth committing to change, and find practical ways to feel better and move forward in your life.
(206) 504-2685 View (206) 504-2685

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kirkland, WA

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Kirkland, WA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
68% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Premera
56% Aetna
55% Regence

How Therapists in Kirkland, WA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kirkland?

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.