Therapists in Washington, DC

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Photo of Jamy Drapeza - Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C., Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20045
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(844) 908-9481 View (844) 908-9481
Photo of Alison Fellowes Comly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Alison Fellowes Comly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
I team with adults, children, and parents to create solutions and awaken aspects of themselves they would like to grow. We work together to heal past pain, strengthen, and to build a fresh start. Our sessions will allow you to take time for yourself to step away from the expectations and pressures of the outside world so that you can feel, see, and build a stronger self. Taking a break from work, school, and life for one or two sessions a week allows for clarity of mind, strengthening of self, and a generation of a new mindset. I will work as your guide in providing you the tools you need to live your life more fully.
I team with adults, children, and parents to create solutions and awaken aspects of themselves they would like to grow. We work together to heal past pain, strengthen, and to build a fresh start. Our sessions will allow you to take time for yourself to step away from the expectations and pressures of the outside world so that you can feel, see, and build a stronger self. Taking a break from work, school, and life for one or two sessions a week allows for clarity of mind, strengthening of self, and a generation of a new mindset. I will work as your guide in providing you the tools you need to live your life more fully.
(202) 643-7935 View (202) 643-7935
Photo of Kristen Quigley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kristen Quigley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
Welcome! Recognizing that something in your life isn't working is a great sign of hope & resilience and those who find their way to my practice are usually looking for something to change in their lives. The reasons why you are seeking therapy are my top priorities and helping you have the life you want is my job. I am often described as compassionate, intuitive, empathetic, open and honest. Seeking out a therapist you connect with and trust it critical. Please come in and decide if you feel that I'm the right therapist for you! I have Tuesday-Saturday hours available.
Welcome! Recognizing that something in your life isn't working is a great sign of hope & resilience and those who find their way to my practice are usually looking for something to change in their lives. The reasons why you are seeking therapy are my top priorities and helping you have the life you want is my job. I am often described as compassionate, intuitive, empathetic, open and honest. Seeking out a therapist you connect with and trust it critical. Please come in and decide if you feel that I'm the right therapist for you! I have Tuesday-Saturday hours available.
(202) 760-2882 View (202) 760-2882
Photo of Sarah Jones - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Washington,D.C, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Washington,D.C
Counselor
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(833) 773-7022 View (833) 773-7022
Photo of Goli Bellinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Goli Bellinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
If you are tired of repetitive fights, arguments that leave you feeling worse, or there isn't much talking or connection, call me. I'm very engaging, and will provide direction, calm, and lightheartedness to cut through tense moments. If you are experiencing a crisis in your relationship, I can help. As a couple's expert, I aim to stabilize major conflict in the first month, starting in the first session. You will become experienced in managing, navigating, and repairing to reach peace with your partner. Additionally, as a cultural specialist, I have worked extensively with intercultural, immigrant, & interracial couples.
If you are tired of repetitive fights, arguments that leave you feeling worse, or there isn't much talking or connection, call me. I'm very engaging, and will provide direction, calm, and lightheartedness to cut through tense moments. If you are experiencing a crisis in your relationship, I can help. As a couple's expert, I aim to stabilize major conflict in the first month, starting in the first session. You will become experienced in managing, navigating, and repairing to reach peace with your partner. Additionally, as a cultural specialist, I have worked extensively with intercultural, immigrant, & interracial couples.
(202) 929-6594 View (202) 929-6594
Photo of Virginia Hendrickson - The Capitol Hill Center for Individual and Family, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Capitol Hill Center for Individual and Family
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Why do we cling to dysfunctional relationship patterns or engage in self-defeating behaviors, perpetuating these ways of living despite the suffering involved? The work we do addresses these concerns in the lives of adults, adolescents, and children.
Why do we cling to dysfunctional relationship patterns or engage in self-defeating behaviors, perpetuating these ways of living despite the suffering involved? The work we do addresses these concerns in the lives of adults, adolescents, and children.
(202) 999-3598 View (202) 999-3598
Photo of Anita Maina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Anita Maina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
As most of us have learned, life presents us with many opportunities for stress, anxiety and emotional turmoil. Sometimes we need professional support to help us navigate challenges in our life. Each of us is unique and therapeutic treatment must also change based on this quality. Therapy is simply a tool that can help you steer the course of your life to the best of your ability so that you can achieve your goals. I provide supportive therapy at a non-judgmental stance and hope that you will find me open and easy to talk to.
As most of us have learned, life presents us with many opportunities for stress, anxiety and emotional turmoil. Sometimes we need professional support to help us navigate challenges in our life. Each of us is unique and therapeutic treatment must also change based on this quality. Therapy is simply a tool that can help you steer the course of your life to the best of your ability so that you can achieve your goals. I provide supportive therapy at a non-judgmental stance and hope that you will find me open and easy to talk to.
(202) 831-7669 View (202) 831-7669
Photo of Latia Taliaferro - Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C., Marriage & Family Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(833) 542-1154 View (833) 542-1154
Photo of Patricia Ortez Aparicio, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Patricia Ortez Aparicio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Patricia Ortez Aparicio a bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist at Hola Counseling Services, LLC. I have my masters in Mental Health Counseling. I'm currently Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington DC, Mental Health Counselor in Hawaii.
My name is Patricia Ortez Aparicio a bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist at Hola Counseling Services, LLC. I have my masters in Mental Health Counseling. I'm currently Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington DC, Mental Health Counselor in Hawaii.
(877) 506-6572 View (877) 506-6572
Photo of Nekia St Clair - Metropolitan Family Connect PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LICSW-C
Metropolitan Family Connect PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LICSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Explore Balance, Wellness and Growth for Every Stage of Life! Metropolitan Family Connect’s dedicated mental health and wellness professionals are here to support you on your path to well-being. Start your journey today by connecting with us.
Explore Balance, Wellness and Growth for Every Stage of Life! Metropolitan Family Connect’s dedicated mental health and wellness professionals are here to support you on your path to well-being. Start your journey today by connecting with us.
(202) 519-1238 View (202) 519-1238
Photo of Savannah Landis, Psychologist, PsyD
Savannah Landis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Feeling the Pressure? Tired of the constant food-and-weight obsession? Worried that your relationship with food is sabotaging your athletic performance? You're a high-achiever. You push yourself relentlessly, striving for excellence in every area of your life. But the pressure to be perfect is exhausting. You might be feeling: burnt out, overwhelmed, or constantly falling short of your own impossibly high standards. Hear me when I say, you are not alone and it's not your fault!
Feeling the Pressure? Tired of the constant food-and-weight obsession? Worried that your relationship with food is sabotaging your athletic performance? You're a high-achiever. You push yourself relentlessly, striving for excellence in every area of your life. But the pressure to be perfect is exhausting. You might be feeling: burnt out, overwhelmed, or constantly falling short of your own impossibly high standards. Hear me when I say, you are not alone and it's not your fault!
(786) 977-2350 View (786) 977-2350
Photo of Jessica Goodman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Jessica Goodman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
Currently only taking on provisionally licensed LPCs in DC/VA in need of supervision. We will work well together if you are excited, maybe a bit overwhelmed, and needing a space to process this stage in your career. You might be interested in a variety of presenting issues, theories, or niches and are working to find your professional voice. Your learning style is benefited by role plays, open-ended discussions, review of notes or treatment plans and regular feedback through self- and supervisor evaluations, as well as viewing and processing audio or video recordings.
Currently only taking on provisionally licensed LPCs in DC/VA in need of supervision. We will work well together if you are excited, maybe a bit overwhelmed, and needing a space to process this stage in your career. You might be interested in a variety of presenting issues, theories, or niches and are working to find your professional voice. Your learning style is benefited by role plays, open-ended discussions, review of notes or treatment plans and regular feedback through self- and supervisor evaluations, as well as viewing and processing audio or video recordings.
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Photo of Sarafina Tabrum, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sarafina Tabrum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy offers a dedicated time for you to pause, see yourself, and remove some of the old layers of protection that no longer serve. Anxiety, depression, and relationship issues make it hard to see clearly and take the next step. It takes a lot of courage to say “I don’t want to live this way,” and get help to make a change. As your therapist, my goal is to help you create the life that you want to live by identifying areas of growth and building skills to solve the challenges that get in the way. I believe that change is possible and therapy can help.
Therapy offers a dedicated time for you to pause, see yourself, and remove some of the old layers of protection that no longer serve. Anxiety, depression, and relationship issues make it hard to see clearly and take the next step. It takes a lot of courage to say “I don’t want to live this way,” and get help to make a change. As your therapist, my goal is to help you create the life that you want to live by identifying areas of growth and building skills to solve the challenges that get in the way. I believe that change is possible and therapy can help.
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Photo of Elissa Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Elissa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Making the choice to seek help and explore change is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. I find it an honor as a therapist to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people-children, adolescents, and adults-who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Making the choice to seek help and explore change is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. I find it an honor as a therapist to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people-children, adolescents, and adults-who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
(202) 831-0229 View (202) 831-0229
Photo of Athena Gavaris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Athena Gavaris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or struggling in your relationship? Let’s meet. I have been providing psychotherapy services to individuals and couples. It is a pleasure to see clients grow, resolve problems, and begin to live and feel in ways they never imagined. I create a safe, supportive, and affirming environment for exploring and gaining insight into the challenges you face, and together we will find new ways to understand, and address them. My goal is to help you find meaningful and lasting solutions that improve your mood, sense of well being, and relationships.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or struggling in your relationship? Let’s meet. I have been providing psychotherapy services to individuals and couples. It is a pleasure to see clients grow, resolve problems, and begin to live and feel in ways they never imagined. I create a safe, supportive, and affirming environment for exploring and gaining insight into the challenges you face, and together we will find new ways to understand, and address them. My goal is to help you find meaningful and lasting solutions that improve your mood, sense of well being, and relationships.
(202) 759-5433 View (202) 759-5433
Photo of K J Jones, Psychologist, PhD
K J Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Welcome to my practice! Seeking professional support is a courageous step. Life often poses many challenges, which can be difficult to navigate alone. Through empathic, genuine, and non-judgmental support, I help clients understand how past and current experiences impact their lives and relationships. I work collaboratively, creatively, and from a consent-based and anti-racist framework to build awareness, confidence, and a sense of empowerment to make changes that lead to more satisfying and fulfilling lives. My aim is to help clients reduce suffering, develop more adaptive resources, and facilitate growth, healing, and resilience.
Welcome to my practice! Seeking professional support is a courageous step. Life often poses many challenges, which can be difficult to navigate alone. Through empathic, genuine, and non-judgmental support, I help clients understand how past and current experiences impact their lives and relationships. I work collaboratively, creatively, and from a consent-based and anti-racist framework to build awareness, confidence, and a sense of empowerment to make changes that lead to more satisfying and fulfilling lives. My aim is to help clients reduce suffering, develop more adaptive resources, and facilitate growth, healing, and resilience.
(202) 335-4436 View (202) 335-4436
Photo of Julianinah Midy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Julianinah Midy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
My name is Julianinah Midy, and I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I take an empathetic approach in therapy, while using evidence-based practices like Trauma-Informed CBT, narrative therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. My background in family systems work offers me unique insights into individuals at every life stage. I aim to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore challenges and foster meaningful change.
My name is Julianinah Midy, and I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I take an empathetic approach in therapy, while using evidence-based practices like Trauma-Informed CBT, narrative therapy and solution-focused brief therapy. My background in family systems work offers me unique insights into individuals at every life stage. I aim to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore challenges and foster meaningful change.
(833) 921-3099 View (833) 921-3099
Photo of Carla Brun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Carla Brun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Are you overwhelmed by the demands of pregnancy or new parenthood? Feeling disconnected from yourself and others since the arrival of your child? Or maybe you're struggling with challenging emotions that make it hard to be the parent you want to be? As a certified perinatal therapist, I help new and expecting parents navigate the full range of feelings that accompany this uniquely intense phase of life. Through a variety of interventions, I've been able to help my clients reclaim a sense of calm, reconnect with themselves, find community, and build stronger bonds with their children.
Are you overwhelmed by the demands of pregnancy or new parenthood? Feeling disconnected from yourself and others since the arrival of your child? Or maybe you're struggling with challenging emotions that make it hard to be the parent you want to be? As a certified perinatal therapist, I help new and expecting parents navigate the full range of feelings that accompany this uniquely intense phase of life. Through a variety of interventions, I've been able to help my clients reclaim a sense of calm, reconnect with themselves, find community, and build stronger bonds with their children.
(833) 950-1391 View (833) 950-1391
Photo of Sonja Kubota Johansson, Psychologist, PsyD
Sonja Kubota Johansson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Chances are that you are here because something is not working in your life. Perhaps it’s a problematic relationship or general self doubt. Maybe you feel stuck and want help changing old patterns. Whatever the case, I recognize the courage it takes to look within and hope to meet you there with compassion, curiosity, and support. With over a decade of experience as a yoga teacher, I have special expertise in the mind-body connection. As a multilingual, mixed race clinician, I am aware of cultural intersections that might be part of your struggle.
Chances are that you are here because something is not working in your life. Perhaps it’s a problematic relationship or general self doubt. Maybe you feel stuck and want help changing old patterns. Whatever the case, I recognize the courage it takes to look within and hope to meet you there with compassion, curiosity, and support. With over a decade of experience as a yoga teacher, I have special expertise in the mind-body connection. As a multilingual, mixed race clinician, I am aware of cultural intersections that might be part of your struggle.
(202) 902-8867 View (202) 902-8867
Photo of Jill Fay, Psychologist, PsyD
Jill Fay
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
We all feel stuck at times. I believe this experience can result from an unhelpful pattern developed over time, and in addition to feeling lost or unfulfilled, we may find ourselves having emotional or behavioral concerns. From a non-judgmental space, I offer a supportive environment to connect while we work together to uncover the patterns that may contribute to pain and problems in your daily life. It is my aim to help illuminate different ways of being so that you may experience less pain, more satisfaction, and a greater quality of life.
We all feel stuck at times. I believe this experience can result from an unhelpful pattern developed over time, and in addition to feeling lost or unfulfilled, we may find ourselves having emotional or behavioral concerns. From a non-judgmental space, I offer a supportive environment to connect while we work together to uncover the patterns that may contribute to pain and problems in your daily life. It is my aim to help illuminate different ways of being so that you may experience less pain, more satisfaction, and a greater quality of life.
(202) 759-3174 View (202) 759-3174
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Washington, DC

3,000+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
69% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

60% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Aetna
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Washington, DC see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Washington?

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.