Therapists in NoMa, Washington, DC

Photo of Jessica Amaral, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Jessica Amaral
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
I aim to provide a warm and supportive environment where we can explore challenges and uncover your strengths. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW), am currently under clinical supervision, and bring the perspective of nearly 10 years of military service to my work. I am versed in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and trauma-informed care.
I aim to provide a warm and supportive environment where we can explore challenges and uncover your strengths. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW), am currently under clinical supervision, and bring the perspective of nearly 10 years of military service to my work. I am versed in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and trauma-informed care.
(202) 915-4316 View (202) 915-4316
Photo of Roslyn Caesar - The Healing Collective Therapy & Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
The Healing Collective Therapy & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
We all reach moments when the weight we carry feels too heavy, when old patterns no longer serve us, or when we’re simply longing for more peace, connection, or clarity. Sometimes we feel stuck between who we’ve been and who we’re becoming. At The Healing Collective, we honor these moments as sacred turning points. We walk this path too; navigating healing, holding space for each other, and creating room to breathe, feel, and begin again. Healing is a shared process, and you don’t have to do it alone.
We all reach moments when the weight we carry feels too heavy, when old patterns no longer serve us, or when we’re simply longing for more peace, connection, or clarity. Sometimes we feel stuck between who we’ve been and who we’re becoming. At The Healing Collective, we honor these moments as sacred turning points. We walk this path too; navigating healing, holding space for each other, and creating room to breathe, feel, and begin again. Healing is a shared process, and you don’t have to do it alone.
(833) 766-5098 View (833) 766-5098
Photo of Elayne Smithdc - Elayne Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elayne Smith, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
I work with people who long for deeper, more reciprocal relationships, a life that actually fits, and a way of being that doesn’t require so much effort to maintain. You know how to hold it all together. You show up, take care of others, work hard, and keep moving, regardless of how you need. Externally, it's going well, but internally, you feel stuck in patterns that leave you feeling drained, unseen, weighed down by pain, burned out, or always chasing. I specialize in working with high-performers, perfectionists, people pleasers, or anxious attachers who seek greater satisfaction, connection, peace, and balance in their life.
I work with people who long for deeper, more reciprocal relationships, a life that actually fits, and a way of being that doesn’t require so much effort to maintain. You know how to hold it all together. You show up, take care of others, work hard, and keep moving, regardless of how you need. Externally, it's going well, but internally, you feel stuck in patterns that leave you feeling drained, unseen, weighed down by pain, burned out, or always chasing. I specialize in working with high-performers, perfectionists, people pleasers, or anxious attachers who seek greater satisfaction, connection, peace, and balance in their life.
(202) 952-9797 View (202) 952-9797
Photo of Hilary Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hilary Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
I have provided individual, group, couples and family therapy in both school settings as well as private practice settings for close to 25 years . I utilize behavioral management tools, cognitive behavioral therapy, and creative therapies to encourage development of self, learn how to celebrate strengths and weaknesses and help clients feel accountable and more importantly, recognize they have the ability to grow. I also have a strong background in parent coaching, fertility counseling with particular focus on single moms by choice and support and aiding clients in working through life transitions.
I have provided individual, group, couples and family therapy in both school settings as well as private practice settings for close to 25 years . I utilize behavioral management tools, cognitive behavioral therapy, and creative therapies to encourage development of self, learn how to celebrate strengths and weaknesses and help clients feel accountable and more importantly, recognize they have the ability to grow. I also have a strong background in parent coaching, fertility counseling with particular focus on single moms by choice and support and aiding clients in working through life transitions.
(202) 846-2647 View (202) 846-2647
Ronit Reguer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
I am a NY State and DC Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of post-masters experience working with trauma, specifically with first responders and victims/survivors of interpersonal violence. East End Psychotherapy is a clinical practice committed to assisting, supporting, and empowering individuals through challenging periods in their lives. Along with the client, a treatment plan will be developed based on specific needs and goals utilizing evidenced-based therapeutic modalities (an interdisciplinary approach to clinical practice supported by research).
I am a NY State and DC Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of post-masters experience working with trauma, specifically with first responders and victims/survivors of interpersonal violence. East End Psychotherapy is a clinical practice committed to assisting, supporting, and empowering individuals through challenging periods in their lives. Along with the client, a treatment plan will be developed based on specific needs and goals utilizing evidenced-based therapeutic modalities (an interdisciplinary approach to clinical practice supported by research).
(646) 490-1637 View (646) 490-1637
Photo of Davina Abujudeh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Davina Abujudeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
Welcome to the next step in your journey of healing! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with a wide range of people from all walks of life. I specialize in working with individuals seeking to recover from trauma, learning to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, people struggling in their relationships, and difficult life transitions. It is my privilege to work with you toward achieving your therapeutic goals.
Welcome to the next step in your journey of healing! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with a wide range of people from all walks of life. I specialize in working with individuals seeking to recover from trauma, learning to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, people struggling in their relationships, and difficult life transitions. It is my privilege to work with you toward achieving your therapeutic goals.
(202) 858-1106 View (202) 858-1106
Photo of Tesalyn Hill-Felton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Tesalyn Hill-Felton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
Got a little one struggling with behavior issues? Perhaps you have a bigger one and you're not sure what the problems could be? I've worked with toddlers, young children, and teens experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, problems with social media, and academic issues. I am consistent, honest, and work hard to ensure kids are gaining what's needed to enjoy both social and emotional success. I even work with teachers and daycare staff. If you need assistance with a challenging student, I can provide specialized school support to help determine next best steps.
Got a little one struggling with behavior issues? Perhaps you have a bigger one and you're not sure what the problems could be? I've worked with toddlers, young children, and teens experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, problems with social media, and academic issues. I am consistent, honest, and work hard to ensure kids are gaining what's needed to enjoy both social and emotional success. I even work with teachers and daycare staff. If you need assistance with a challenging student, I can provide specialized school support to help determine next best steps.
(202) 933-9836 View (202) 933-9836
Photo of Jessie Webb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Jessie Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
Find the non-judgmental support you need as you navigate life’s challenges. If you're struggling with self-criticism or feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to face it alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where we explore your concerns together and press toward meaningful change. Imagine watching your teenager grow in areas that once felt impossible. I work with both teens (and preteens) and adults, walking alongside individuals during difficult seasons. Whether your teenager is navigating the pressures of adolescence or you’re dealing with personal challenges, you’ll find a steady, supportive presence here.
Find the non-judgmental support you need as you navigate life’s challenges. If you're struggling with self-criticism or feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to face it alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where we explore your concerns together and press toward meaningful change. Imagine watching your teenager grow in areas that once felt impossible. I work with both teens (and preteens) and adults, walking alongside individuals during difficult seasons. Whether your teenager is navigating the pressures of adolescence or you’re dealing with personal challenges, you’ll find a steady, supportive presence here.
(202) 851-2820 View (202) 851-2820
Photo of Brittaneyrose Shelton - Christ & Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christ & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
Welcome! I’m Brittaneyrose, a licensed therapist serving clients in the Michigan and DMV area. My approach to therapy is collaborative, where the real transformation happens both inside and outside our sessions. I encourage self-work (homework) to empower you, because the growth is yours to claim. My role is to help you make sense of your journey and bring clarity to what you’re experiencing. I specialize in supporting women ages 21-65 who are navigating life post-breakup or divorce. I also work with married couples looking to repair and strengthen their relationships through the transformative process of Marriage Therapy.
Welcome! I’m Brittaneyrose, a licensed therapist serving clients in the Michigan and DMV area. My approach to therapy is collaborative, where the real transformation happens both inside and outside our sessions. I encourage self-work (homework) to empower you, because the growth is yours to claim. My role is to help you make sense of your journey and bring clarity to what you’re experiencing. I specialize in supporting women ages 21-65 who are navigating life post-breakup or divorce. I also work with married couples looking to repair and strengthen their relationships through the transformative process of Marriage Therapy.
(947) 245-0292 View (947) 245-0292
Photo of Phillip J Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, BCD, LICSW
Phillip J Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, BCD, LICSW
5 Endorsed
NoMa, Washington, DC 20002
Waitlist for new clients
I am solution-focused, and believe that a solid therapeutic relationship is a key to successfully meeting identified goals. Utilizing humor, passion, and dedication to the service of others I aim to create a safe environment while challenging behaviors and thoughts to aid in motivation for change. I also use integrative psychotherapy, combining different therapeutic tools and approaches that fit the needs of each individual or situation.
I am solution-focused, and believe that a solid therapeutic relationship is a key to successfully meeting identified goals. Utilizing humor, passion, and dedication to the service of others I aim to create a safe environment while challenging behaviors and thoughts to aid in motivation for change. I also use integrative psychotherapy, combining different therapeutic tools and approaches that fit the needs of each individual or situation.
(202) 852-9486 View (202) 852-9486
Photo of Nicole M Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Nicole M Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
1 Endorsed
NoMa, Washington, DC 20020
Waitlist for new clients
I have over thirteen years of experience in the mental health field, working with a variety of individuals across many backgrounds and treatment needs. I enjoy working with teens and young adults with anxiety who are transitioning between phases of life, as well as mothers who are trying to find balance amidst demanding responsibilities. I have been certified in the treatment of trauma and am honored when someone trusts me enough to allow me into some of the hardest moments of their lives. My primary strategy is to provide a warm and safe environment based on kindness and empathic understanding.
I have over thirteen years of experience in the mental health field, working with a variety of individuals across many backgrounds and treatment needs. I enjoy working with teens and young adults with anxiety who are transitioning between phases of life, as well as mothers who are trying to find balance amidst demanding responsibilities. I have been certified in the treatment of trauma and am honored when someone trusts me enough to allow me into some of the hardest moments of their lives. My primary strategy is to provide a warm and safe environment based on kindness and empathic understanding.
(434) 201-8406 View (434) 201-8406
Photo of Carlos Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW-C
Carlos Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW-C
Online Only
The ideal client of C&B Well is someone who feels the weight of modern life’s complexities and struggles with mental health concerns. They are seeking a safe, supportive space to break the stigma around mental health, to access tools for emotional and mental wellness, and to find a sense of balance and peace. Through the combination of therapeutic support, wellness practices, and community, they aim to heal and thrive not just for themselves, but to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health for others as well.
The ideal client of C&B Well is someone who feels the weight of modern life’s complexities and struggles with mental health concerns. They are seeking a safe, supportive space to break the stigma around mental health, to access tools for emotional and mental wellness, and to find a sense of balance and peace. Through the combination of therapeutic support, wellness practices, and community, they aim to heal and thrive not just for themselves, but to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health for others as well.
(202) 935-9289 View (202) 935-9289
Photo of Dr. Kristy LaMar, Psychological Associate, PhD
Dr. Kristy LaMar
Psychological Associate, PhD
Online Only
Life can be tough, and we all need a space at times to feel heard, supported, and understood. I’m Dr. Kristy LaMar, and I offer a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to therapy that meets you where you are. With a PhD in Educational and Counseling Psychology—and my own lived experience as a brain tumor survivor—I bring both professional expertise and personal resilience into my work. I welcome individuals across the lifespan and strive to create a safe, collaborative space where you can explore challenges, gain clarity, and reconnect with your strengths. Hope still lives in you!
Life can be tough, and we all need a space at times to feel heard, supported, and understood. I’m Dr. Kristy LaMar, and I offer a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to therapy that meets you where you are. With a PhD in Educational and Counseling Psychology—and my own lived experience as a brain tumor survivor—I bring both professional expertise and personal resilience into my work. I welcome individuals across the lifespan and strive to create a safe, collaborative space where you can explore challenges, gain clarity, and reconnect with your strengths. Hope still lives in you!
(202) 888-8434 View (202) 888-8434
Photo of Dr. Simon Walsh, Licensed Professional Counselor, DMSc, LPC, NCC
Dr. Simon Walsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMSc, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Let’s be honest: something hurts. Maybe it’s a relationship that’s unraveling, a sense of disconnection in your sex life, or a gnawing question about who you are and where you belong. Maybe you’ve been carrying the weight of shame, confusion, or invisibility for far too long. And in this moment, you’re searching for something more. Relief. Clarity. Change. If you’re navigating identity, intimacy, or the ache of transition, especially as someone under the Queer umbrella, you know how heavy it can feel. The world isn’t always kind to complexity. Whatever it is that has brought you to my profile, I am here to support you.
Let’s be honest: something hurts. Maybe it’s a relationship that’s unraveling, a sense of disconnection in your sex life, or a gnawing question about who you are and where you belong. Maybe you’ve been carrying the weight of shame, confusion, or invisibility for far too long. And in this moment, you’re searching for something more. Relief. Clarity. Change. If you’re navigating identity, intimacy, or the ache of transition, especially as someone under the Queer umbrella, you know how heavy it can feel. The world isn’t always kind to complexity. Whatever it is that has brought you to my profile, I am here to support you.
(202) 972-7956 View (202) 972-7956
Photo of Janice Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Janice Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist who is dedicated and committed to transforming lives by instilling hope in my clients and empowering them to maintain psychological well-being in the face of adversity. I am passionate about meeting the emotional and mental health needs of my clients. I have a genuine interest in making a meaningful impact on individual's lives, by supporting them through emotional challenges and personal growth. I enjoy being a positive force in someone’s life by providing guidance and support.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist who is dedicated and committed to transforming lives by instilling hope in my clients and empowering them to maintain psychological well-being in the face of adversity. I am passionate about meeting the emotional and mental health needs of my clients. I have a genuine interest in making a meaningful impact on individual's lives, by supporting them through emotional challenges and personal growth. I enjoy being a positive force in someone’s life by providing guidance and support.
(202) 602-1270 View (202) 602-1270
Photo of Keinesha Jackson, LGSW
Keinesha Jackson
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, families, and Veterans navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, and complex emotional challenges. I believe that each individual holds the inner resources necessary for growth and healing, and my strength lies in building authentic connections that foster trust and engagement in the therapeutic process. My background includes training in anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD, and is supported by years of experience with social systems, advocacy, and community engagement.
With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, families, and Veterans navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, and complex emotional challenges. I believe that each individual holds the inner resources necessary for growth and healing, and my strength lies in building authentic connections that foster trust and engagement in the therapeutic process. My background includes training in anxiety, depression, and complex PTSD, and is supported by years of experience with social systems, advocacy, and community engagement.
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Photo of Da'Shunnda Hayward-White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Da'Shunnda Hayward-White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Hello! I'm Da'Shunnda, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to support you on your mental health journey. With over ten years of experience as a CBT therapist, I specialize in helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and stress. My approach is rooted in evidence-based cognitive-behavioral techniques, which means we'll work together to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, fostering healthier, more fulfilling lives. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree and am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical.
Hello! I'm Da'Shunnda, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to support you on your mental health journey. With over ten years of experience as a CBT therapist, I specialize in helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and stress. My approach is rooted in evidence-based cognitive-behavioral techniques, which means we'll work together to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, fostering healthier, more fulfilling lives. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree and am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical.
(888) 718-3948 View (888) 718-3948
Photo of Sarah Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sarah Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
Clients seek therapy with me because they want a compassionate, knowledgeable professional who offers a balance of clinical expertise, empathetic support, and practical guidance. They seek a therapist who creates a safe, affirming space, empowers them to overcome challenges, and helps them make meaningful changes for greater well-being and personal growth.
Clients seek therapy with me because they want a compassionate, knowledgeable professional who offers a balance of clinical expertise, empathetic support, and practical guidance. They seek a therapist who creates a safe, affirming space, empowers them to overcome challenges, and helps them make meaningful changes for greater well-being and personal growth.
(202) 900-1140 View (202) 900-1140
Photo of Mumbi Thande, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Mumbi Thande
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to accompany anyone navigating a transition, whether personally, professionally, or emotionally, and ready to move forward but unsure of how. Whether feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed by expectations. I am here to join in discovering clarity, confidence, and alignment with your values. Most of all, we will create a space to reconnect with your power, shed what no longer serves you, and live with purpose.
I am here to accompany anyone navigating a transition, whether personally, professionally, or emotionally, and ready to move forward but unsure of how. Whether feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed by expectations. I am here to join in discovering clarity, confidence, and alignment with your values. Most of all, we will create a space to reconnect with your power, shed what no longer serves you, and live with purpose.
(202) 914-5524 View (202) 914-5524
Photo of Olivia Ikenberry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Olivia Ikenberry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
If you find that you are having difficulties with creating healthy relationships or you struggle with feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, I am here to help. I work with adults and older adolescents who seek to manage personal and interpersonal demands positively and effectively. In our work together, I aim to support you in developing strategies and skills that reduce burnout, foster a positive sense of self, and enhance your relationships with yourself and others. At its core, our work in this therapeutic journey is to help you become the version of yourself that you can be most pleased with.
If you find that you are having difficulties with creating healthy relationships or you struggle with feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, I am here to help. I work with adults and older adolescents who seek to manage personal and interpersonal demands positively and effectively. In our work together, I aim to support you in developing strategies and skills that reduce burnout, foster a positive sense of self, and enhance your relationships with yourself and others. At its core, our work in this therapeutic journey is to help you become the version of yourself that you can be most pleased with.
(202) 217-4874 View (202) 217-4874

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in NoMa, Washington, DC

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in NoMa, Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
67% Self Esteem
67% Stress
61% Relationship Issues
56% Grief
53% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
71% CareFirst

How Therapists in NoMa, Washington, DC see their clients

69% Online Only
31% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in NoMa, 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.