Therapists in Bridgewater, CT

Photo of Lisa B. Antel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lisa B. Antel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, CT 06752
For over 25 years, I have had the privilege of providing therapy to adults at various stages of their lives, from college students to retirees. My approach to psychotherapy is relational, honoring and respecting your innate wisdom. By learning to be truly present with yourself, you will increase self-regulation and expand your capacity to address life’s challenges and traumas. Together, we will focus on enhancing your resilience, connection, and vitality, allowing you to navigate life's struggles with greater ease. My role is to support you in uncovering your unique answers and tapping into your natural ability to heal and thrive.
For over 25 years, I have had the privilege of providing therapy to adults at various stages of their lives, from college students to retirees. My approach to psychotherapy is relational, honoring and respecting your innate wisdom. By learning to be truly present with yourself, you will increase self-regulation and expand your capacity to address life’s challenges and traumas. Together, we will focus on enhancing your resilience, connection, and vitality, allowing you to navigate life's struggles with greater ease. My role is to support you in uncovering your unique answers and tapping into your natural ability to heal and thrive.
(860) 467-1411 View (860) 467-1411
Photo of Amy Arruda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Arruda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My most recent endeavors have been learning how to heal without medication. Many don't know that 90% of our brain's serotonin is made in our gut. Let me teach you how to feel better by eating the right foods. I also have a great deal of experience working with adolescents and can effectively provide emotional and behavioral support for youth with wide array of needs utilizing a holistic and strengths-based clinical approach.

 I specialize in the assessment and treatment of:

 PTSD
, Substance abuse
, Conduct Disorder
, ADHD
, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, 
Anxiety, 
Depression
, Postpartum & can help with health related issues
My most recent endeavors have been learning how to heal without medication. Many don't know that 90% of our brain's serotonin is made in our gut. Let me teach you how to feel better by eating the right foods. I also have a great deal of experience working with adolescents and can effectively provide emotional and behavioral support for youth with wide array of needs utilizing a holistic and strengths-based clinical approach.

 I specialize in the assessment and treatment of:

 PTSD
, Substance abuse
, Conduct Disorder
, ADHD
, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, 
Anxiety, 
Depression
, Postpartum & can help with health related issues
(203) 813-5457 View (203) 813-5457
Photo of Sandy Duemmler - Women in Transition Counseling, Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC, MA
Women in Transition Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life is like a roller coaster with its uphills and downhills. Usually we roll with the flow and find that some days are better than others. Or maybe everything is fine and then life throws us a curveball and we don't know which way to turn. As women in today's world, we find ourselves in life transitions frequently. Most of the time we can work through it on our own but every now and then we get stuck and need a little help to figure out how to move forward.
Life is like a roller coaster with its uphills and downhills. Usually we roll with the flow and find that some days are better than others. Or maybe everything is fine and then life throws us a curveball and we don't know which way to turn. As women in today's world, we find ourselves in life transitions frequently. Most of the time we can work through it on our own but every now and then we get stuck and need a little help to figure out how to move forward.
(561) 571-9607 View (561) 571-9607
Photo of Judith L O'Callaghan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, CCDP-D
Judith L O'Callaghan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
For the past 24 years I have worked as a clinician and supervisor in schools, behavioral health agencies, and substance abuse facilities while maintaining a private practice in Brookfield, CT. As a result, my clinical approach, which is built on a solid foundation of family systems training, reflects all that I have learned along the way in my work with relationships, emotional problems, life changes, addictions, co-occurring disorders, trauma and other issues affecting individuals, couples, and families
For the past 24 years I have worked as a clinician and supervisor in schools, behavioral health agencies, and substance abuse facilities while maintaining a private practice in Brookfield, CT. As a result, my clinical approach, which is built on a solid foundation of family systems training, reflects all that I have learned along the way in my work with relationships, emotional problems, life changes, addictions, co-occurring disorders, trauma and other issues affecting individuals, couples, and families
(203) 740-2595 x4 View (203) 740-2595 x4

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Hoffman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lisa Hoffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southbury, CT 06488
I believe, to heal, everyone needs and deserves a safe space to share their emotions and vulnerability, where they can create fearlessly and honestly without judgement. I believe mental wellness can be achieved by using creativity and expression to inspire, heal, and communicate your needs. As your therapist, it is my goal for you to feel safe to express your true self and who you desire to be. It would be my honor to help you get there, while celebrating progress and empowering you to create positive and healthy change in your life. I have vast experience working with adolescents, teens, and young adults.
I believe, to heal, everyone needs and deserves a safe space to share their emotions and vulnerability, where they can create fearlessly and honestly without judgement. I believe mental wellness can be achieved by using creativity and expression to inspire, heal, and communicate your needs. As your therapist, it is my goal for you to feel safe to express your true self and who you desire to be. It would be my honor to help you get there, while celebrating progress and empowering you to create positive and healthy change in your life. I have vast experience working with adolescents, teens, and young adults.
(475) 897-5213 View (475) 897-5213
Photo of Jill Papanek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Jill Papanek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488
Accepting New Clients for in-person and Telehealth appointments in 2025! Insurance accepted. I am a Master's Level Social Worker at Western Connecticut Counseling. I also have worked at Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital for the past 3 years. This experience has provided me with the clinical training to work with adults of all ages, in different stages of their lives and all gender, sexual orientation, identity, race, religion, and socioeconomic status. I can help you navigate life transitions, relationship struggles, childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and any other challenge you are facing.
Accepting New Clients for in-person and Telehealth appointments in 2025! Insurance accepted. I am a Master's Level Social Worker at Western Connecticut Counseling. I also have worked at Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital for the past 3 years. This experience has provided me with the clinical training to work with adults of all ages, in different stages of their lives and all gender, sexual orientation, identity, race, religion, and socioeconomic status. I can help you navigate life transitions, relationship struggles, childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and any other challenge you are facing.
(475) 251-4060 View (475) 251-4060
Photo of Jennifer T Giustra-Kozek - Jennifer Giustra-Kozek, LPC & Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, HpN
Jennifer Giustra-Kozek, LPC & Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, HpN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, CT 06798
I integrate compassion, intuition, empathy and focusing on clarity and change. I help people to come out of the groove of old thinking and old behavior. I employ several therapeutic modalities. No good teacher uses one approach for every student. I listen attentively letting you formulate your own curriculum. As your Psychotherapist, I am walking along your path to healing to help you avoid a few pitfalls along the road by seeing them first. I assist and guide individuals, couples and families through their life journeys and transitions. Helping during periods of depression, anxiety, loss, trauma and addiction.
I integrate compassion, intuition, empathy and focusing on clarity and change. I help people to come out of the groove of old thinking and old behavior. I employ several therapeutic modalities. No good teacher uses one approach for every student. I listen attentively letting you formulate your own curriculum. As your Psychotherapist, I am walking along your path to healing to help you avoid a few pitfalls along the road by seeing them first. I assist and guide individuals, couples and families through their life journeys and transitions. Helping during periods of depression, anxiety, loss, trauma and addiction.
(203) 544-2467 View (203) 544-2467
Photo of Brittney L Richleigh, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Brittney L Richleigh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield, CT 06759
My mission is to provide a safe environment through nurturance, trust, communication and of course, sprinkles of humor. I aim to aid families and individuals in identifying generational themes and patterns. I believe we all have an inner child yearning to be heard. The journey of finding our sense of self can help heal this inner child while creating healthier boundaries and dynamics in the present. I use my therapeutic background and collaborative approach to help guide clients through a systemic lens onto a path of healing and growth.
My mission is to provide a safe environment through nurturance, trust, communication and of course, sprinkles of humor. I aim to aid families and individuals in identifying generational themes and patterns. I believe we all have an inner child yearning to be heard. The journey of finding our sense of self can help heal this inner child while creating healthier boundaries and dynamics in the present. I use my therapeutic background and collaborative approach to help guide clients through a systemic lens onto a path of healing and growth.
(860) 512-9927 View (860) 512-9927
Photo of Jen Kempf - Jen Kempf, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jen Kempf, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795
Not accepting new clients
Are you tired of feeling so stressed? Maybe you’re exhausted dealing with your relationship issues and worried things will never get better. Maybe you feel overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of people pleasing-saying yes when you really want to say no yet feel too guilty...or maybe you are unhappy with yourself in some way and are tired of feeling that way. Stress can affect all aspects of your life from relationships, self-esteem, sleep, parenting and even weight. It can keep stuck in unhealthy relationships, keep you from making decision, saying no and speaking up for yourself all of which really just suck.
Are you tired of feeling so stressed? Maybe you’re exhausted dealing with your relationship issues and worried things will never get better. Maybe you feel overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of people pleasing-saying yes when you really want to say no yet feel too guilty...or maybe you are unhappy with yourself in some way and are tired of feeling that way. Stress can affect all aspects of your life from relationships, self-esteem, sleep, parenting and even weight. It can keep stuck in unhealthy relationships, keep you from making decision, saying no and speaking up for yourself all of which really just suck.
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Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(860) 254-1791 View (860) 254-1791
Photo of Rebecca Antonaccio, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rebecca Antonaccio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Torrington, CT 06790
I believe in working with clients through a collaborative person-centered and strength-based approach to help clients reach their goals. It is my goal to create and hold a safe therapeutic space for clients to work towards the changes they want to make in their lives.
I believe in working with clients through a collaborative person-centered and strength-based approach to help clients reach their goals. It is my goal to create and hold a safe therapeutic space for clients to work towards the changes they want to make in their lives.
(860) 854-4935 View (860) 854-4935
Photo of Jeanna Spatta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jeanna Spatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterbury, CT 06708
In my practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to foster a warm & empathic, supportive & comfortable environment, providing clients with the tools they need to achieve their desired goals & uncover their true potential. I believe each client is unique & therefore, tailor my therapy approach according to individual needs, with a strong emphasis on client strengths & empowerment. I further believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one, whereby clients play an integral role in the treatment planning process. I truly enjoy helping my clients & watching them grow, heal, & achieve positive, lasting changes.
In my practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to foster a warm & empathic, supportive & comfortable environment, providing clients with the tools they need to achieve their desired goals & uncover their true potential. I believe each client is unique & therefore, tailor my therapy approach according to individual needs, with a strong emphasis on client strengths & empowerment. I further believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one, whereby clients play an integral role in the treatment planning process. I truly enjoy helping my clients & watching them grow, heal, & achieve positive, lasting changes.
(203) 350-0468 View (203) 350-0468
Photo of Jennifer Daigle, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Jennifer Daigle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
There are so many ways that fear can show up for us, but at the center of everything there is a you. I often say that I specialize in all things fear, but really, my greatest specialty is you. I believe that all that you are and are not deserves to be seen and heard. I am honored to be there for the journey, and explore the ways that we can learn more about ourselves through fear, OCD, anxiety, phobias, trauma and other related experiences and their treatment.
There are so many ways that fear can show up for us, but at the center of everything there is a you. I often say that I specialize in all things fear, but really, my greatest specialty is you. I believe that all that you are and are not deserves to be seen and heard. I am honored to be there for the journey, and explore the ways that we can learn more about ourselves through fear, OCD, anxiety, phobias, trauma and other related experiences and their treatment.
(860) 909-8369 View (860) 909-8369
Photo of Ariana Cardozo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ariana Cardozo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrington, CT 06790
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults regarding a variety of issues from mild situational anxiety to severe mental health concerns. My career spans over 15 years working in Behavioral Health settings, and five years conducting individual psychotherapy. I provide a person-centered approach utilizing CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy and trauma informed modalities such as IFS to create effective coping strategies alongside my clients. I am EMDR Certified and utilize somatic re-experiencing for management of trauma symptoms.
I work with adults regarding a variety of issues from mild situational anxiety to severe mental health concerns. My career spans over 15 years working in Behavioral Health settings, and five years conducting individual psychotherapy. I provide a person-centered approach utilizing CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy and trauma informed modalities such as IFS to create effective coping strategies alongside my clients. I am EMDR Certified and utilize somatic re-experiencing for management of trauma symptoms.
(860) 406-5015 View (860) 406-5015
Photo of Kendra Cole, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kendra Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, are you ready to change your pathway? Let's do it together! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in post partum mothers, adolescents, individuals and couples. I believe everyone is capable of change and it is my privilege to walk along side you as you begin your therapeutic journey.
Hi there, are you ready to change your pathway? Let's do it together! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in post partum mothers, adolescents, individuals and couples. I believe everyone is capable of change and it is my privilege to walk along side you as you begin your therapeutic journey.
(860) 764-3521 View (860) 764-3521
Photo of Belinda Bridges, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Belinda Bridges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years in the field. I have a down to earth balanced approach and do my best to engage people in distress in a calm and productive manner. My approach is to work with clients at their own pace on the goals they want to work on focusing on taking forward moving steps in their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years in the field. I have a down to earth balanced approach and do my best to engage people in distress in a calm and productive manner. My approach is to work with clients at their own pace on the goals they want to work on focusing on taking forward moving steps in their lives.
(860) 785-2919 View (860) 785-2919
Photo of Nicole Kroeber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nicole Kroeber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, CT 06751
As a licensed psychotherapist and NeuroAffective touch practitioner, I offer talk and therapeutic touch...as well as self guided touch. Our bodies tell the story of our struggles to love & be loved leading to emotional injuries of abandonment, neglect and betrayal. NaTouch enables the release of tensions in the muscles & viscera and nurtures a dysregulated physiology. I have blended all that I’ve learned in education & professional somatic training domains to share with you the vital importance of nervous system regulation - true health & healing that leads to lasting change.
As a licensed psychotherapist and NeuroAffective touch practitioner, I offer talk and therapeutic touch...as well as self guided touch. Our bodies tell the story of our struggles to love & be loved leading to emotional injuries of abandonment, neglect and betrayal. NaTouch enables the release of tensions in the muscles & viscera and nurtures a dysregulated physiology. I have blended all that I’ve learned in education & professional somatic training domains to share with you the vital importance of nervous system regulation - true health & healing that leads to lasting change.
(475) 473-8342 View (475) 473-8342
Photo of Nicole Mayo Gowell - NMG Counseling LLC, Nicole Mayo Gowell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
NMG Counseling LLC, Nicole Mayo Gowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
I am a licensed clinical social worker who is committed to supporting you in your journey towards peace, purpose and growth. Utilizing therapeutic practices that apply to everyday life, I am here to genuinely support you! Using psychotherapeutic, behavioral, mindfulness, and psycho-educational approaches, I will collaborate with you to guide you on your journey to your best self.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who is committed to supporting you in your journey towards peace, purpose and growth. Utilizing therapeutic practices that apply to everyday life, I am here to genuinely support you! Using psychotherapeutic, behavioral, mindfulness, and psycho-educational approaches, I will collaborate with you to guide you on your journey to your best self.
(860) 979-5825 View (860) 979-5825
Photo of Kimberly Francis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kimberly Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488
Waitlist for new clients
Our work together will be a combination of CBT, Psychodynamic Theory and Attachment Theory. Our sessions will be a balance of self-reflection, insight and support while also learning strategies to help cope with the distressing emotions, thoughts or memories you are experiencing. I offer psychoeducation surrounding the science behind why we think, feel and act the way we do, and how we can use this information as part of the treatment process together.
Our work together will be a combination of CBT, Psychodynamic Theory and Attachment Theory. Our sessions will be a balance of self-reflection, insight and support while also learning strategies to help cope with the distressing emotions, thoughts or memories you are experiencing. I offer psychoeducation surrounding the science behind why we think, feel and act the way we do, and how we can use this information as part of the treatment process together.
(860) 398-5317 View (860) 398-5317
Interface Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
New Milford, CT 06776
Sometimes life can be overwhelming, leaving us feeling vulnerable and like there is no balance in our lives. Whatever your challenges are, Interface Counseling is here to help and support you. Our team of experienced therapists can help you achieve that balance, while addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, as well as many other issues. Taking that first step is scary, but we understand and care and want to help. Our goal is to provide the support and skills you need to find the strength, balance and happiness you deserve.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming, leaving us feeling vulnerable and like there is no balance in our lives. Whatever your challenges are, Interface Counseling is here to help and support you. Our team of experienced therapists can help you achieve that balance, while addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, as well as many other issues. Taking that first step is scary, but we understand and care and want to help. Our goal is to provide the support and skills you need to find the strength, balance and happiness you deserve.
(860) 935-6989 View (860) 935-6989

See more therapy options for Bridgewater

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bridgewater, CT

< 10

Therapists in Bridgewater, CT who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Self Esteem
100% Life Transitions
75% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Medicaid
50% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Bridgewater, CT see their clients

75% Online Only
25% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bridgewater?

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.