Therapists in Dallas, TX

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Photo of Priya Patel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Priya Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT, in TX, and NY
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
***********Late evening hours available*********** Changes and routine can both be difficult. At times, this leaves us with struggling thoughts of past wounds leading into present life, which can impact our emotional well-being and perhaps even lead to conflicts in relationships. I bring a wide-range of experience working with young adults pertaining to struggles of anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma.
***********Late evening hours available*********** Changes and routine can both be difficult. At times, this leaves us with struggling thoughts of past wounds leading into present life, which can impact our emotional well-being and perhaps even lead to conflicts in relationships. I bring a wide-range of experience working with young adults pertaining to struggles of anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma.
(661) 475-6676 View (661) 475-6676
Photo of Summer Joy Haase, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Summer Joy Haase
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Waitlist for new clients
If you or your child are experiencing loneliness, feelings of being overwhelmed, having trouble in relationships, trauma or self-doubt, then seeking support is a vital step in discovering peace. My goal is to help you explore, heal, strengthen, and connect the pieces of your life. My therapeutic style begins by creating a safe and comfortable environment where you are heard and valued. Success comes from exploring and evaluating one’s unique thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while applying practical strategies that bring positive and lasting change.
If you or your child are experiencing loneliness, feelings of being overwhelmed, having trouble in relationships, trauma or self-doubt, then seeking support is a vital step in discovering peace. My goal is to help you explore, heal, strengthen, and connect the pieces of your life. My therapeutic style begins by creating a safe and comfortable environment where you are heard and valued. Success comes from exploring and evaluating one’s unique thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while applying practical strategies that bring positive and lasting change.
(972) 980-5816 View (972) 980-5816
Photo of Lilith Beason, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Lilith Beason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
My practice centers queer, neurodivergent adults experiencing complex trauma, maladaptive self image, dissociative concerns, spiritual and identity development, and mood disorders. I primarily help people address intersectional trauma related to family and close relationships, religious abuse, and neurodivergent, sexual, and gender identities. Trauma can intersect with other concerns like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, and relationships, and our bodies. Feeling stuck in our own mud, it's easy to lose control or hope. Sex worker friendly.
My practice centers queer, neurodivergent adults experiencing complex trauma, maladaptive self image, dissociative concerns, spiritual and identity development, and mood disorders. I primarily help people address intersectional trauma related to family and close relationships, religious abuse, and neurodivergent, sexual, and gender identities. Trauma can intersect with other concerns like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, and relationships, and our bodies. Feeling stuck in our own mud, it's easy to lose control or hope. Sex worker friendly.
(214) 220-4728 View (214) 220-4728
Photo of Lauren Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Lauren Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Hi, my name is Lauren and I am so glad that you have chosen to seek help. Starting therapy for yourself or your child can be daunting, but I am committed to building trusting relationships with my clients and providing a space where honesty and vulnerability can flourish. I am passionate about recognizing each individual's unique experiences that have shaped them and working collaboratively with my clients to tailor treatment to their specific needs. Additionally, I believe in involving family members whenever possible to better support clients in their recovery journey.
Hi, my name is Lauren and I am so glad that you have chosen to seek help. Starting therapy for yourself or your child can be daunting, but I am committed to building trusting relationships with my clients and providing a space where honesty and vulnerability can flourish. I am passionate about recognizing each individual's unique experiences that have shaped them and working collaboratively with my clients to tailor treatment to their specific needs. Additionally, I believe in involving family members whenever possible to better support clients in their recovery journey.
(972) 640-8546 View (972) 640-8546
Photo of Dr. Esteffania Lezama, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Dr. Esteffania Lezama
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual psychologist who is passionate about offering people a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment in which to grow and explore themselves. I view psychotherapy as being a collaborative experience where the therapeutic relationship drives meaningful change and growth. As my clients experience those uncomfortable "growth spurt" moments, I aim to support them by modeling authenticity and encouraging them to practice patience and acceptance with themselves. It is my personal belief that therapy can not only lead to symptom reduction, but also to greater personal satisfaction and inner tranquility.
I am a bilingual psychologist who is passionate about offering people a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment in which to grow and explore themselves. I view psychotherapy as being a collaborative experience where the therapeutic relationship drives meaningful change and growth. As my clients experience those uncomfortable "growth spurt" moments, I aim to support them by modeling authenticity and encouraging them to practice patience and acceptance with themselves. It is my personal belief that therapy can not only lead to symptom reduction, but also to greater personal satisfaction and inner tranquility.
(469) 804-9684 View (469) 804-9684
Photo of Ayushi Acharya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Ayushi Acharya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
Please do not call. Please email only or visit my website: www.loveyourbehavior.com to book a FREE 15-minute consultation. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, misunderstood, depressed, anxious- there could be a multitude of reasons why. When life dips into the realm of the unexpected- we some times need to reach out for help. As a supporter of you, I want you to achieve your best sense of self. Through the therapeutic process, together we can achieve your goals and help manage your mental health by examining your thoughts, choices and relationships. I currently practice in Texas & Georgia & North Carolina via Telehealth.
Please do not call. Please email only or visit my website: www.loveyourbehavior.com to book a FREE 15-minute consultation. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, misunderstood, depressed, anxious- there could be a multitude of reasons why. When life dips into the realm of the unexpected- we some times need to reach out for help. As a supporter of you, I want you to achieve your best sense of self. Through the therapeutic process, together we can achieve your goals and help manage your mental health by examining your thoughts, choices and relationships. I currently practice in Texas & Georgia & North Carolina via Telehealth.
(469) 290-3738 View (469) 290-3738
Photo of Jayme Funderburk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Jayme Funderburk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Have you felt stressed, overwhelmed, or wondering how to resolve issues? I focus on helping clients find calm when life gets difficult and am dedicated to helping you reach your goals. My approach is specialized for helping adults facing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, relationships issues, and other concerns.
Have you felt stressed, overwhelmed, or wondering how to resolve issues? I focus on helping clients find calm when life gets difficult and am dedicated to helping you reach your goals. My approach is specialized for helping adults facing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, relationships issues, and other concerns.
(469) 378-9425 View (469) 378-9425
Photo of Lindsay Hansborough in Dallas, TX
Lindsay Hansborough
MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75208
Life can get hard and may feel overwhelming at times. The patterns we've developed throughout our lives can become the things that get in the way of the life we want. Whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. My goal is to walk with you through these challenges and provide a safe place where you can feel understood and accepted. We may not be able to change the situations that happen to us but we can change how we perceive them and how we respond. I provide a non-judgmental environment where you are able to express your thoughts, feelings and emotions so you can overcome the things that are holding you back.
Life can get hard and may feel overwhelming at times. The patterns we've developed throughout our lives can become the things that get in the way of the life we want. Whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. My goal is to walk with you through these challenges and provide a safe place where you can feel understood and accepted. We may not be able to change the situations that happen to us but we can change how we perceive them and how we respond. I provide a non-judgmental environment where you are able to express your thoughts, feelings and emotions so you can overcome the things that are holding you back.
(214) 972-2926 View (214) 972-2926
Photo of Rosana Rivera-Delgado, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dallas, TX
Rosana Rivera-Delgado
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Sometimes we need someone to join us on the difficult journey of life. I believe everyone deserves an opportunity to explore and improve upon themselves. I encourage clients to bring their genuine self to therapy. Together we will work from a holistic framework to help you achieve better emotional and mental balance. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is one founded on trust, safety, acceptance, understanding, and empathy; this alliance lays the groundwork for client growth. Every person is unique, and I approach therapy in a way that fosters that individuality. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults.
Sometimes we need someone to join us on the difficult journey of life. I believe everyone deserves an opportunity to explore and improve upon themselves. I encourage clients to bring their genuine self to therapy. Together we will work from a holistic framework to help you achieve better emotional and mental balance. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is one founded on trust, safety, acceptance, understanding, and empathy; this alliance lays the groundwork for client growth. Every person is unique, and I approach therapy in a way that fosters that individuality. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults.
(469) 649-8512 View (469) 649-8512
Photo of Phil Bohart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Phil Bohart
Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
Accepts most health insurance plans, Medicare, and I am currently taking new clients. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I am specifically trained in using evidence based, empirically supported cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with clients who are facing challenges of medical disability, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, and sleep related disorders.
Accepts most health insurance plans, Medicare, and I am currently taking new clients. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I am specifically trained in using evidence based, empirically supported cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with clients who are facing challenges of medical disability, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, and sleep related disorders.
(214) 857-6022 View (214) 857-6022
Photo of Bianca Hemphill, Psychological Associate in Dallas, TX
Bianca Hemphill
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
I've worked with children & adolescents in clinical outpatient settings, including individual, family, & group therapy, and intensive in-home services. I have provided community support services to adults with mental health & substance abuse diagnoses to help increase self-sufficiency. I've worked in research settings studying the effects of domestic violence on children and evaluating the effectiveness of Systems of Care for children with severe emotional / behavioral disturbances. I have experience with psychological testing, including intellectual / personality assessment and tests of academic achievement. I use psychological assessment for diagnostic clarification, level of care determinations, and providing other therapeutic recommendations.
I've worked with children & adolescents in clinical outpatient settings, including individual, family, & group therapy, and intensive in-home services. I have provided community support services to adults with mental health & substance abuse diagnoses to help increase self-sufficiency. I've worked in research settings studying the effects of domestic violence on children and evaluating the effectiveness of Systems of Care for children with severe emotional / behavioral disturbances. I have experience with psychological testing, including intellectual / personality assessment and tests of academic achievement. I use psychological assessment for diagnostic clarification, level of care determinations, and providing other therapeutic recommendations.
(469) 382-3541 View (469) 382-3541
Photo of Carla Casillas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Carla Casillas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230  (Online Only)
Your story doesn't end here. You are more than your experiences. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal, and it is my goal to help you find your way back to wellness. Let's start the next chapter together. My therapy approach is that of "Mind, Body, Soul" and believe that all three will influence someone's quality of life. Whether it be someone needing psychotherapy to address past traumatic events or someone who is holding their trauma in their body, everything revolves around alignment. I offer a variety of modalities that address the whole person, not just their mental needs.
Your story doesn't end here. You are more than your experiences. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal, and it is my goal to help you find your way back to wellness. Let's start the next chapter together. My therapy approach is that of "Mind, Body, Soul" and believe that all three will influence someone's quality of life. Whether it be someone needing psychotherapy to address past traumatic events or someone who is holding their trauma in their body, everything revolves around alignment. I offer a variety of modalities that address the whole person, not just their mental needs.
(469) 717-6859 View (469) 717-6859
Photo of Randy Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Randy Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
I would be happy to explore with you what you most want for yourself and what might be getting in the way of having that. What you can expect from me is openness, curiosity, compassion, acceptance, support, engagement and collaboration. What you won’t get from me is judgement, pathologizing, ridicule or rejection. I’m not here to tell you what’s wrong with you or how to live your life. I’m here to know what you most want for yourself and to partner with you in exploring what might be getting in the way of you having that.
I would be happy to explore with you what you most want for yourself and what might be getting in the way of having that. What you can expect from me is openness, curiosity, compassion, acceptance, support, engagement and collaboration. What you won’t get from me is judgement, pathologizing, ridicule or rejection. I’m not here to tell you what’s wrong with you or how to live your life. I’m here to know what you most want for yourself and to partner with you in exploring what might be getting in the way of you having that.
(469) 844-2723 View (469) 844-2723
Photo of Hope Torres, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Hope Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248
Welcome! I am Hope Torres MS, LPC, CCTP-II, I am a USAF veteran and prior law enforcement officer. I use my experiences in life, such as child and adulthood traumas, and array of trainings to guide clients to healing and growth. I am here to work for those with traumas, anxiety, PTSD, military (active and veteran), first responders, medical staff, and anyone that has faced difficult times in life that make is hard for them day-to-day. My approach in therapy is based on the needs and experiences of the clients and always contain compassion, patience, guidance, listening, and encouragement of growth.
Welcome! I am Hope Torres MS, LPC, CCTP-II, I am a USAF veteran and prior law enforcement officer. I use my experiences in life, such as child and adulthood traumas, and array of trainings to guide clients to healing and growth. I am here to work for those with traumas, anxiety, PTSD, military (active and veteran), first responders, medical staff, and anyone that has faced difficult times in life that make is hard for them day-to-day. My approach in therapy is based on the needs and experiences of the clients and always contain compassion, patience, guidance, listening, and encouragement of growth.
(915) 221-7861 View (915) 221-7861
Photo of Ryan Sadkin Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Ryan Sadkin Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
Are you drinking or using too much? Do you struggle to know your purpose in life? I'm well-equipped to treat those experiencing substance abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, lack of motivation, loss of identity, feelings of not being "good enough," codependency, communication issues, gender role issues, workplace stress, "daddy issues," mom guilt, overwhelming resentments, and feeling "stuck." I help clients discover the root of their issues in order to help them change their thinking, manage their emotions, and develop new routines and behaviors so they can move forward with a happy, peaceful, and productive life.
Are you drinking or using too much? Do you struggle to know your purpose in life? I'm well-equipped to treat those experiencing substance abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, lack of motivation, loss of identity, feelings of not being "good enough," codependency, communication issues, gender role issues, workplace stress, "daddy issues," mom guilt, overwhelming resentments, and feeling "stuck." I help clients discover the root of their issues in order to help them change their thinking, manage their emotions, and develop new routines and behaviors so they can move forward with a happy, peaceful, and productive life.
(469) 405-1567 View (469) 405-1567
Photo of Monica Gutierrez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dallas, TX
Monica Gutierrez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
I am passionate about working with individuals across the lifespan. Everyone is unique, and I approach therapy in a way that fosters that individuality to create growth. My style is strength-focused, warm, attentive, and thoughtful. I believe in therapy that emphasizes trust, safety, acceptance, understanding, and empathy. I strive to create a safe space and develop a collaborative and integrative approach to help you identify patterns, work on interpersonal struggles, facilitate self-reflection, and foster self-awareness.
I am passionate about working with individuals across the lifespan. Everyone is unique, and I approach therapy in a way that fosters that individuality to create growth. My style is strength-focused, warm, attentive, and thoughtful. I believe in therapy that emphasizes trust, safety, acceptance, understanding, and empathy. I strive to create a safe space and develop a collaborative and integrative approach to help you identify patterns, work on interpersonal struggles, facilitate self-reflection, and foster self-awareness.
(214) 972-0489 View (214) 972-0489
Photo of Olamide Coker, LPC Associate in Dallas, TX
Olamide Coker
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Olamide Coker, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I recognize that taking the step to seek therapy can be both courageous and challenging, and I applaud your decision to embark on this transformative journey with me. In this safe and nurturing space, I will strive to create an environment where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to provide a sanctuary where you can freely express your thoughts, emotions, and struggles without judgment.
Hello, My name is Olamide Coker, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I recognize that taking the step to seek therapy can be both courageous and challenging, and I applaud your decision to embark on this transformative journey with me. In this safe and nurturing space, I will strive to create an environment where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. My goal is to provide a sanctuary where you can freely express your thoughts, emotions, and struggles without judgment.
(512) 572-4370 View (512) 572-4370
Photo of Venecia A. Webb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Venecia A. Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231  (Online Only)
My ideal patient is someone who takes their mental health seriously and strives to be healthy mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. This patient is someone who has issues with trauma or depression, and they want to learn how to cope and heal from their past traumas. This patient wants to feel better and not have flashbacks or any other disruptions in their lives so they can truly live again and be optimistic about their life.
My ideal patient is someone who takes their mental health seriously and strives to be healthy mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. This patient is someone who has issues with trauma or depression, and they want to learn how to cope and heal from their past traumas. This patient wants to feel better and not have flashbacks or any other disruptions in their lives so they can truly live again and be optimistic about their life.
(469) 296-5718 View (469) 296-5718
Photo of Ashlan Miles, Licensed Master Social Worker in Dallas, TX
Ashlan Miles
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
I assist men and women suffering from anxiety and trauma in finding integrative tools that create a sense of balance and inner connection with one’s sense of purpose mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Together we will identify your specific needs as we process your unique challenges and work to support internal regulation and healing.
I assist men and women suffering from anxiety and trauma in finding integrative tools that create a sense of balance and inner connection with one’s sense of purpose mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Together we will identify your specific needs as we process your unique challenges and work to support internal regulation and healing.
(469) 208-0093 View (469) 208-0093
Photo of Maria Dsouza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Maria Dsouza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
Therapy should be individualized for each client's needs. I use a variety of approaches to facilitate change including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person-centered, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution-focused. I have worked as an educator, school counselor, adult substance abuse, and many other backgrounds and ages.
Therapy should be individualized for each client's needs. I use a variety of approaches to facilitate change including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person-centered, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution-focused. I have worked as an educator, school counselor, adult substance abuse, and many other backgrounds and ages.
(469) 297-9783 View (469) 297-9783

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dallas, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
75% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
70% Coping Skills
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Dallas, TX see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dallas?

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.