Therapists in Augusta, GA

View neighborhoods in Augusta
Photo of Hana Perkey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Hana Perkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
At times, trauma can get us locked in painful patterns of interacting with others or responding to our environment. Whether we are re-living pain and hurt in our relationships or reacting to triggers around us in ways that no longer serve us, the results can leave us depressed, chronically stressed, and exhausted. Living an authentic life that includes joy and fulfillment does not have to be a fantasy. Therapy can help you gain some clarity about your struggles and give you the tools you need to make transformational changes.
At times, trauma can get us locked in painful patterns of interacting with others or responding to our environment. Whether we are re-living pain and hurt in our relationships or reacting to triggers around us in ways that no longer serve us, the results can leave us depressed, chronically stressed, and exhausted. Living an authentic life that includes joy and fulfillment does not have to be a fantasy. Therapy can help you gain some clarity about your struggles and give you the tools you need to make transformational changes.
(706) 574-3174 View (706) 574-3174
Photo of Carlos J Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Augusta, GA
Carlos J Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, addictions, depression, anger management, relationship stressors and/or transitions and other emotional and behavioral difficulties.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, addictions, depression, anger management, relationship stressors and/or transitions and other emotional and behavioral difficulties.
(762) 445-9111 View (762) 445-9111
Photo of Jeanette Gilles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Augusta, GA
Jeanette Gilles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Jeanette Alderman Gilles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia who has been practicing since 1991. She has a BA in Psychology and an MSW, both from the University of South Carolina. Jeanette uses a client centered approach to assist clients who are struggling with life changes and/or trauma. She focuses on techniques designed to aid in self-exploration and goal setting. Outside of work, Jeanette enjoys traveling, kayaking, reading, attending college football games and spending time with family and friends.
Jeanette Alderman Gilles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia who has been practicing since 1991. She has a BA in Psychology and an MSW, both from the University of South Carolina. Jeanette uses a client centered approach to assist clients who are struggling with life changes and/or trauma. She focuses on techniques designed to aid in self-exploration and goal setting. Outside of work, Jeanette enjoys traveling, kayaking, reading, attending college football games and spending time with family and friends.
(706) 969-7950 View (706) 969-7950
Photo of Mark Oakley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Mark Oakley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
I became a therapist because therapy changed my life. Experiencing mental illness was a struggle, caused emotional suffering, but lead me to reach out for help. The support I found brought solace and healing, and eventually opened doors that led to becoming a therapist. It is such meaningful experience to reach those who are now where I once was. Over the years I had opportunities to work in many settings, including medical and mental health hospitals, intensive outpatient, and residential addiction treatment centers, and now private practice.
I became a therapist because therapy changed my life. Experiencing mental illness was a struggle, caused emotional suffering, but lead me to reach out for help. The support I found brought solace and healing, and eventually opened doors that led to becoming a therapist. It is such meaningful experience to reach those who are now where I once was. Over the years I had opportunities to work in many settings, including medical and mental health hospitals, intensive outpatient, and residential addiction treatment centers, and now private practice.
(478) 215-5614 View (478) 215-5614
Photo of Cecelia Mack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Cecelia Mack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
(678) 607-9610 View (678) 607-9610
Photo of Leslie M Cobb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Leslie M Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Brené Brown said it best in her statement, “I believe that you have to walk through vulnerability to get to courage, therefore ... embrace the suck." However, you don’t have to do it alone. And it doesn’t have to suck all the time. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist you will find new ways to solve problems, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. I am here to help you identify existing strengths, as well as introduce you to new strategies for managing your mental wellbeing. You’ll find it takes less time to get noticeable relief than what you think. And we’ll laugh a lot.
Brené Brown said it best in her statement, “I believe that you have to walk through vulnerability to get to courage, therefore ... embrace the suck." However, you don’t have to do it alone. And it doesn’t have to suck all the time. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist you will find new ways to solve problems, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. I am here to help you identify existing strengths, as well as introduce you to new strategies for managing your mental wellbeing. You’ll find it takes less time to get noticeable relief than what you think. And we’ll laugh a lot.
(706) 203-4252 View (706) 203-4252
Photo of Tara Tresslar, Counselor in Augusta, GA
Tara Tresslar
Counselor, LAPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
I enjoy collaborating with individuals, couples, and families, drawing upon both conventional practices and a holistic framework to foster heightened awareness in areas such as nutrition and movement, and how they connect with our mental well-being. Cultivating cultural humility and serving as an ally for the LGBTQ community are important values in my practice as a clinician committed to fostering a welcoming environment.
I enjoy collaborating with individuals, couples, and families, drawing upon both conventional practices and a holistic framework to foster heightened awareness in areas such as nutrition and movement, and how they connect with our mental well-being. Cultivating cultural humility and serving as an ally for the LGBTQ community are important values in my practice as a clinician committed to fostering a welcoming environment.
(706) 960-1583 View (706) 960-1583
Photo of Scott Patterson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Scott Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Scott Patterson is a licensed professional counselor. He graduated from Troy University with a Master's degree in Counseling and Psychology. Scott trained at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia, PA in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and uses this approach with those who are dealing with grief, anxiety, depression and other issues. He is also trained in ScreamFree Parenting and ScreamFree Marriage and uses principles from Gottman Method Couples Counseling in his work with couples as well. Scott also works in a church setting and is available to do Christian counseling.
Scott Patterson is a licensed professional counselor. He graduated from Troy University with a Master's degree in Counseling and Psychology. Scott trained at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia, PA in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and uses this approach with those who are dealing with grief, anxiety, depression and other issues. He is also trained in ScreamFree Parenting and ScreamFree Marriage and uses principles from Gottman Method Couples Counseling in his work with couples as well. Scott also works in a church setting and is available to do Christian counseling.
(706) 903-9332 View (706) 903-9332
Photo of Tiffany Baxter Stifter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Augusta, GA
Tiffany Baxter Stifter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
I have my Master and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Pepperdine University (California). I have my certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I have been licensed in Nevada as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2006. I became licensed in the state of Georgia in 2018 and moved to Augusta with my family several years ago. I use an integrative modality approach. I primarily focus on the family as a system for effective and long-term change. I encourage family members to be a part of the therapy process.
I have my Master and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Pepperdine University (California). I have my certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I have been licensed in Nevada as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2006. I became licensed in the state of Georgia in 2018 and moved to Augusta with my family several years ago. I use an integrative modality approach. I primarily focus on the family as a system for effective and long-term change. I encourage family members to be a part of the therapy process.
(706) 756-8295 View (706) 756-8295
Photo of Ivy Nalley-Roshto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Augusta, GA
Ivy Nalley-Roshto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual psychotherapy for adults (18 and older). I treat people with a variety of presenting complaints including interpersonal issues, identity concerns, self-esteem issues, stressful life transitions, anxiety, low mood, and substance use concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual psychotherapy for adults (18 and older). I treat people with a variety of presenting complaints including interpersonal issues, identity concerns, self-esteem issues, stressful life transitions, anxiety, low mood, and substance use concerns.
(762) 220-2584 View (762) 220-2584
Photo of Jessica Fritz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Jessica Fritz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, issues relating to women and/or families, children/adolescents, LGBTQ+ population and young adults. I have extensive professional experience providing individual, family and group counseling. I am passionate about taking an integrative and holistic approach, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person Centered Therapy, to treat the whole person and ensure that what is done in therapy is personalized, collaborative, and unique to you as a client.
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, issues relating to women and/or families, children/adolescents, LGBTQ+ population and young adults. I have extensive professional experience providing individual, family and group counseling. I am passionate about taking an integrative and holistic approach, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person Centered Therapy, to treat the whole person and ensure that what is done in therapy is personalized, collaborative, and unique to you as a client.
(706) 717-6137 View (706) 717-6137
Photo of Rachel H Willis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Rachel H Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
Through counseling, I help individuals find practical ways to experience some relief from the stress life brings. Whether you want to learn skills to handle anxiety or feel held back from reaching your goals, I provide a safe and accepting environment for individuals to grow. I understand worry can weigh you down and finding a work-life balance can be difficult. Utilizing empathy, understanding, and support, I aim to help you gain the skills to handle life's ups and downs. I believe each person is unique and I take a client-centered approach to treatment, where clients are at the forefront of the therapeutic process.
Through counseling, I help individuals find practical ways to experience some relief from the stress life brings. Whether you want to learn skills to handle anxiety or feel held back from reaching your goals, I provide a safe and accepting environment for individuals to grow. I understand worry can weigh you down and finding a work-life balance can be difficult. Utilizing empathy, understanding, and support, I aim to help you gain the skills to handle life's ups and downs. I believe each person is unique and I take a client-centered approach to treatment, where clients are at the forefront of the therapeutic process.
(706) 350-6445 View (706) 350-6445
Photo of Toni Janelle Paschal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Augusta, GA
Toni Janelle Paschal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30906  (Online Only)
If you live long enough, you’re going to experience problems. It’s not if, but when. It’s okay to get help when life gets overwhelming. Mental health problems can range from mild to severe. I believe that each client is unique and I take time to evaluate a person as an individual. I bring to therapy an essential aspect – the art of caring. It was ingrained in me when I was young, “No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” Are you tired of suffering in silence? Do you have a story to tell, but no one to tell it to? Do you often feel unstable, but don't know what to do about it? Please reach out today.
If you live long enough, you’re going to experience problems. It’s not if, but when. It’s okay to get help when life gets overwhelming. Mental health problems can range from mild to severe. I believe that each client is unique and I take time to evaluate a person as an individual. I bring to therapy an essential aspect – the art of caring. It was ingrained in me when I was young, “No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” Are you tired of suffering in silence? Do you have a story to tell, but no one to tell it to? Do you often feel unstable, but don't know what to do about it? Please reach out today.
(706) 551-7635 View (706) 551-7635
Daniela Andronic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Daniela Andronic is committed to providing her patients with the highest standard of care. She is a graduate of Augusta State University with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Boston University with a Master of Science in Public Relations and Tufts University with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and French. She is very warm, caring and empathic, and believes that meaningful psychotherapy is best served in the context of a strong counseling relationship. Daniela's orientation is cognitive behavioral and humanistic, however she integrates different techniques to suit patients' needs.
Daniela Andronic is committed to providing her patients with the highest standard of care. She is a graduate of Augusta State University with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Boston University with a Master of Science in Public Relations and Tufts University with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and French. She is very warm, caring and empathic, and believes that meaningful psychotherapy is best served in the context of a strong counseling relationship. Daniela's orientation is cognitive behavioral and humanistic, however she integrates different techniques to suit patients' needs.
(706) 898-4948 View (706) 898-4948
Photo of Steppingstones To Recovery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Augusta, GA
Steppingstones To Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
After earning a Master's in Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 2003, I began working at Steppingstones as a group therapist. While I am not recovering from a substance use disorder myself, I have an extensive understanding of the progression of addiction, the process of recovery, and family dynamics of addiction. In addition to addiction treatment experience, I find fulfillment working with the various issues faced by emergency responders, including law enforcement officers, paramedics and fire fighters, as well as people seeking help for mental health concerns.
After earning a Master's in Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 2003, I began working at Steppingstones as a group therapist. While I am not recovering from a substance use disorder myself, I have an extensive understanding of the progression of addiction, the process of recovery, and family dynamics of addiction. In addition to addiction treatment experience, I find fulfillment working with the various issues faced by emergency responders, including law enforcement officers, paramedics and fire fighters, as well as people seeking help for mental health concerns.
(706) 675-5723 View (706) 675-5723
Photo of Brandon Coussens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Augusta, GA
Brandon Coussens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
You are feeling hopeless, stressed, anxious, and concerned you won't be able to handle this much longer. Your relationship is in the pits and you wonder if it could ever be renewed. Trying to communicate with your loved one feels too overwhelming and like walking on eggshells! It's hard to know what to do anymore. Tired of arguing, scared of being alone, and the possibility of losing everything that is important to you describes your life. Events in your life are hard to deal with and the person you should be able to count on is someone who hurt you and you are struggling to trust. Do any of these situations sound like you?
You are feeling hopeless, stressed, anxious, and concerned you won't be able to handle this much longer. Your relationship is in the pits and you wonder if it could ever be renewed. Trying to communicate with your loved one feels too overwhelming and like walking on eggshells! It's hard to know what to do anymore. Tired of arguing, scared of being alone, and the possibility of losing everything that is important to you describes your life. Events in your life are hard to deal with and the person you should be able to count on is someone who hurt you and you are struggling to trust. Do any of these situations sound like you?
(762) 224-6051 View (762) 224-6051
Photo of Madison Bentley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Madison Bentley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
In addition to his private practice where he treats child/adolescents/adults, Madison was the Clinical Director at Hope House of Augusta’s Women’s Residential and Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Center from September 11, 2016 to February 9, 2020, where patients received treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. Madison has a Master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy Alabama University and is a National Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Georgia where he provides clinical supervision for Master's level post-graduates.
In addition to his private practice where he treats child/adolescents/adults, Madison was the Clinical Director at Hope House of Augusta’s Women’s Residential and Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Center from September 11, 2016 to February 9, 2020, where patients received treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. Madison has a Master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy Alabama University and is a National Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Georgia where he provides clinical supervision for Master's level post-graduates.
(706) 637-2075 View (706) 637-2075
Photo of Rhea Kisling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Rhea Kisling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901
I'm Rhea Kisling, and I've dedicated over two decades to the behavioral health sector. It feels like only yesterday when I began assisting families and children, later transitioning to focus on adults. My drive stems from a profound passion for aiding individuals in improving their circumstances. Irrespective of our diverse backgrounds, educations, or life journeys, we all yearn for fulfillment, love, and a sense of achievement or happiness.
I'm Rhea Kisling, and I've dedicated over two decades to the behavioral health sector. It feels like only yesterday when I began assisting families and children, later transitioning to focus on adults. My drive stems from a profound passion for aiding individuals in improving their circumstances. Irrespective of our diverse backgrounds, educations, or life journeys, we all yearn for fulfillment, love, and a sense of achievement or happiness.
(678) 336-5208 View (678) 336-5208
Photo of April Noriega, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
April Noriega
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
April Noriega is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and holds certifications as a trauma and anxiety professional. April has a long history of working with a diverse population of clients and disorders. As a military spouse, a mother, and a survivor of past trauma, April brings a wide array of skill sets and real-world experiences. April offers an empathetic, non-judgmental space for anyone seeking help and/or growth in their current stage of life. Her hope is through therapy, you will see improvements and gain the tools you need to benefit your journey to a healthier you.
April Noriega is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and holds certifications as a trauma and anxiety professional. April has a long history of working with a diverse population of clients and disorders. As a military spouse, a mother, and a survivor of past trauma, April brings a wide array of skill sets and real-world experiences. April offers an empathetic, non-judgmental space for anyone seeking help and/or growth in their current stage of life. Her hope is through therapy, you will see improvements and gain the tools you need to benefit your journey to a healthier you.
(706) 943-0752 View (706) 943-0752
Photo of Alexis Nicole Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Augusta, GA
Alexis Nicole Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30907
It is my honor to just simply be a small part of my client’s journey of growth and healing. My goal is to help empower my clients and to help them to see that they are not helpless, and that peace and hope can be replenished in their lives. I am driven to help my clients uproot disabling beliefs, dismantle intrusive negative thoughts, and to help my clients became overall mentally and emotionally hydrated. I want my clients to know that I see them, I hear them, and they are worthy of peace, hope, and clarity in their lives.
It is my honor to just simply be a small part of my client’s journey of growth and healing. My goal is to help empower my clients and to help them to see that they are not helpless, and that peace and hope can be replenished in their lives. I am driven to help my clients uproot disabling beliefs, dismantle intrusive negative thoughts, and to help my clients became overall mentally and emotionally hydrated. I want my clients to know that I see them, I hear them, and they are worthy of peace, hope, and clarity in their lives.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Augusta, GA

400+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Augusta, GA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
69% Coping Skills
68% Self Esteem
62% Trauma and PTSD
59% Grief
54% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Augusta, GA see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Augusta?

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.