Therapists in Merritt Island, FL

Photo of Elizabeth Wester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Wester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
You are ready for a new you? To break cycles and feel differently? Many of my clients/families come in feeling overwhelmed, stuck or unsure how to navigate their emotions, their relationships or the changes happening in their lives. Change is possible when you open yourself to exploring new ways of understanding yourself and others. I work especially well with clients who value honesty, humor as well as a warm, non-judgmental space to share. Whether you are 7 or 75 you don't need to have the right words or a clear plan; you just need a willingness to show up. Lets do the rest together.
You are ready for a new you? To break cycles and feel differently? Many of my clients/families come in feeling overwhelmed, stuck or unsure how to navigate their emotions, their relationships or the changes happening in their lives. Change is possible when you open yourself to exploring new ways of understanding yourself and others. I work especially well with clients who value honesty, humor as well as a warm, non-judgmental space to share. Whether you are 7 or 75 you don't need to have the right words or a clear plan; you just need a willingness to show up. Lets do the rest together.
(321) 333-5646 View (321) 333-5646
Photo of Stephanie Spain Anderson, Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Stephanie Spain Anderson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
I am a compassionate, solutions-oriented psychotherapist dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life’s challenges with clarity, resilience, and hope. My work is grounded in cognitive-behavioral principles, while remaining flexible, creative, and deeply attuned to each client’s unique experiences, strengths, and goals.
I am a compassionate, solutions-oriented psychotherapist dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life’s challenges with clarity, resilience, and hope. My work is grounded in cognitive-behavioral principles, while remaining flexible, creative, and deeply attuned to each client’s unique experiences, strengths, and goals.
(321) 204-2954 View (321) 204-2954
Photo of Dawn Hoffman, Counselor, MS , LMHC, NCC
Dawn Hoffman
Counselor, MS , LMHC, NCC
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Helping people build fulfilling, meaningful lives is truly my passion. As a licensed therapist, I am committed to creating a safe, compassionate space where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I believe that each person already carries strength within them, and my role is to help you reconnect with that strength as you navigate life’s challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, postpartum depression or anxiety, past trauma, or parenting concerns, you don’t have to face it alone. I would be honored to walk alongside you as a supportive partner.
Helping people build fulfilling, meaningful lives is truly my passion. As a licensed therapist, I am committed to creating a safe, compassionate space where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I believe that each person already carries strength within them, and my role is to help you reconnect with that strength as you navigate life’s challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, postpartum depression or anxiety, past trauma, or parenting concerns, you don’t have to face it alone. I would be honored to walk alongside you as a supportive partner.
(321) 415-0780 View (321) 415-0780
Photo of LaKenya H McCallister, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
LaKenya H McCallister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
2 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Finding solutions is not always easy to do alone. Counseling is the perfect tool to help gain perspective of the challenges that you face. Our hope at McCallister Family Counseling is to provide a safe place for you or your family to feel supported while navigating your way towards positive outcomes. Have you or your family member been depressed, acting out, anxious, or even attempted suicide? Are you unhappy at home, school, or work? Are your days plagued by managing power struggles, constant yelling, and everyone is stressed? Your story does not end here. Let us help you write the next chapter.
Finding solutions is not always easy to do alone. Counseling is the perfect tool to help gain perspective of the challenges that you face. Our hope at McCallister Family Counseling is to provide a safe place for you or your family to feel supported while navigating your way towards positive outcomes. Have you or your family member been depressed, acting out, anxious, or even attempted suicide? Are you unhappy at home, school, or work? Are your days plagued by managing power struggles, constant yelling, and everyone is stressed? Your story does not end here. Let us help you write the next chapter.
(321) 617-5290 View (321) 617-5290
Photo of Lauren (Cimino) Ortiz, Counselor, LMHC, MA
Lauren (Cimino) Ortiz
Counselor, LMHC, MA
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
I am a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. I bring a warm, grounded presence to my work, helping clients feel safe, seen, and understood as they explore their inner world. My therapeutic style is collaborative, curious, and nonjudgmental. I work closely with each client to create an individualized treatment experience tailored to their unique needs, values, and goals. I am dedicated to offering empathetic, individualized, and evidence-based care that empowers clients to reconnect with their strengths and build a more meaningful, balanced life.
I am a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. I bring a warm, grounded presence to my work, helping clients feel safe, seen, and understood as they explore their inner world. My therapeutic style is collaborative, curious, and nonjudgmental. I work closely with each client to create an individualized treatment experience tailored to their unique needs, values, and goals. I am dedicated to offering empathetic, individualized, and evidence-based care that empowers clients to reconnect with their strengths and build a more meaningful, balanced life.
(321) 381-3899 View (321) 381-3899
Photo of Dr. Andrea L. Coverman, Psychologist, PsyD, CAP, CADAC
Dr. Andrea L. Coverman
Psychologist, PsyD, CAP, CADAC
Merritt Island, FL 32953
My professional career spans more than 15 years’ experience providing direct bio-psycho-social-diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning client/patient-centered services with clinical practice specialties that include: integrative assessment, addiction(s) & substance abuse screening/treatment/relapse-prevention, dual-diagnosis treatment, psychoeducation, and psychotherapeutic services representing multiculturally diverse adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population(s). I am CAP/CADAC Certified and a National Health Service Psychologist.
My professional career spans more than 15 years’ experience providing direct bio-psycho-social-diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning client/patient-centered services with clinical practice specialties that include: integrative assessment, addiction(s) & substance abuse screening/treatment/relapse-prevention, dual-diagnosis treatment, psychoeducation, and psychotherapeutic services representing multiculturally diverse adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population(s). I am CAP/CADAC Certified and a National Health Service Psychologist.
(321) 248-1685 View (321) 248-1685
Photo of Paola Conte, Psychologist, PhD
Paola Conte
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I work with young adults, college students, and adults who are used to functioning at a high level but feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Many are navigating transitions, burnout, or sustained pressure in demanding environments. They are capable individuals seeking clarity, relief from anxiety, and a more effective way to move forward. I help them better understand their patterns, build practical skills, and regain a sense of well-being and confidence.
I work with young adults, college students, and adults who are used to functioning at a high level but feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Many are navigating transitions, burnout, or sustained pressure in demanding environments. They are capable individuals seeking clarity, relief from anxiety, and a more effective way to move forward. I help them better understand their patterns, build practical skills, and regain a sense of well-being and confidence.
(321) 204-7494 View (321) 204-7494
Photo of Ryan Rutkowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ryan Rutkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals and couples who are having a hard time feeling secure in their relationships due to attachment injury or relational trauma. Do you feel the need to ask "is everything ok?" to your friend or partner? Or freeze up the moment someone gets vulnerable with you? I work from an attachment lens to help you not only understand your relational patterns, but know what to do to help yourself feel safe in relationships, with yourself, and answer these types of questions
I work with individuals and couples who are having a hard time feeling secure in their relationships due to attachment injury or relational trauma. Do you feel the need to ask "is everything ok?" to your friend or partner? Or freeze up the moment someone gets vulnerable with you? I work from an attachment lens to help you not only understand your relational patterns, but know what to do to help yourself feel safe in relationships, with yourself, and answer these types of questions
(321) 384-9956 View (321) 384-9956
Photo of Kerry Berner, Counselor, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S
Kerry Berner
Counselor, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S
11 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
(321) 274-4817 View (321) 274-4817
Photo of Kendra Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Kendra Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Online Only
I’m a therapist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges and build more meaningful connections. I work with adults facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, and self-esteem concerns, as well as couples seeking to improve communication and strengthen their bond. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can better understand yourself, develop new tools, and move toward the life and relationships you truly want. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and lasting change.
I’m a therapist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges and build more meaningful connections. I work with adults facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, and self-esteem concerns, as well as couples seeking to improve communication and strengthen their bond. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can better understand yourself, develop new tools, and move toward the life and relationships you truly want. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and lasting change.
(321) 344-9426 View (321) 344-9426
Photo of Amber Hartnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS, MCAP
Amber Hartnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS, MCAP
10 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Food and weight have taken over your life. You're not even sure how it got this bad. Constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you are NOT ENOUGH makes it even worse. The battle in your head is relentless, from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed the inner voices are raging. Fighting against them is exhausting. It’s so hard holding it together when all you want is to be free of this burden. You don’t want to be a burden on others, so you smile and hold it in, all the while feeling shitty and overwhelmed. I get it I have been there, Eating disorders suck but recovery is possible! I am living proof.
Food and weight have taken over your life. You're not even sure how it got this bad. Constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you are NOT ENOUGH makes it even worse. The battle in your head is relentless, from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed the inner voices are raging. Fighting against them is exhausting. It’s so hard holding it together when all you want is to be free of this burden. You don’t want to be a burden on others, so you smile and hold it in, all the while feeling shitty and overwhelmed. I get it I have been there, Eating disorders suck but recovery is possible! I am living proof.
(321) 613-8685 View (321) 613-8685
Photo of Deana Duckenfield, Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Deana Duckenfield
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Online Only
As a mental health therapist, I believe healing happens at the intersection of science and humanity. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices—like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care—but it's guided just as much by warmth, compassion, and the belief that therapy should feel like a conversation, not a clinical exam.
As a mental health therapist, I believe healing happens at the intersection of science and humanity. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices—like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care—but it's guided just as much by warmth, compassion, and the belief that therapy should feel like a conversation, not a clinical exam.
(321) 529-1694 View (321) 529-1694
Photo of Mark R Olivere, Counselor, LMHC
Mark R Olivere
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Telehealth visits are now available. I have been providing counseling to individuals, couples and families since 1998. I have worked with clients from age 5 to 81 in addressing problems with mood and behavior, as well as relationships, and vocational problems. I practice a person-centered approach to your concerns, identify your goals and create a plan to achieve those goals. We may also use strategies from other therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and brief solution-focused therapy.
Telehealth visits are now available. I have been providing counseling to individuals, couples and families since 1998. I have worked with clients from age 5 to 81 in addressing problems with mood and behavior, as well as relationships, and vocational problems. I practice a person-centered approach to your concerns, identify your goals and create a plan to achieve those goals. We may also use strategies from other therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and brief solution-focused therapy.
(941) 584-5899 View (941) 584-5899
Photo of Carla Haughton, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Carla Haughton
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
My ideal client is a high-achieving person who appears confident but feels drained from constantly proving their worth. They struggle with perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-doubt, craving peace, authenticity, and confidence that feels real. They want to stop performing and start becoming—reclaiming their voice, identity, and joy. Their goal isn’t just to heal but to rise: to break generational cycles, trust themselves deeply, and live with ease, clarity, and unapologetic self-expression.
My ideal client is a high-achieving person who appears confident but feels drained from constantly proving their worth. They struggle with perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-doubt, craving peace, authenticity, and confidence that feels real. They want to stop performing and start becoming—reclaiming their voice, identity, and joy. Their goal isn’t just to heal but to rise: to break generational cycles, trust themselves deeply, and live with ease, clarity, and unapologetic self-expression.
(321) 394-8701 View (321) 394-8701
Photo of Lais Rodrigues da Gama, Counselor, LMHC
Lais Rodrigues da Gama
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I provide Psychotherapy Sessions in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. I hope to assist every person sitting across from me to find power in what they once found weakness; and perfection in what seems broken. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Behavior Therapy. The issues that I treat are anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and personal growth.
I provide Psychotherapy Sessions in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. I hope to assist every person sitting across from me to find power in what they once found weakness; and perfection in what seems broken. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Behavior Therapy. The issues that I treat are anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and personal growth.
(407) 972-0870 View (407) 972-0870
Photo of William Eyring, Psychologist, PsyD
William Eyring
Psychologist, PsyD
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Two practice locations: Satellite Beach & Merritt Island. Together, we can discover the tools you need to have a happier life and more fulfilling relationships. If your best ideas haven't been successful in helping you solve your problems, I may be able to help. With my clinical training and experience, I can offer unique suggestions and solutions tailored to your situation. I have been helping couples and families resolve their differences for years. If you feel stuck and you don't know where else to turn, I can help you make positive changes in your life.
Two practice locations: Satellite Beach & Merritt Island. Together, we can discover the tools you need to have a happier life and more fulfilling relationships. If your best ideas haven't been successful in helping you solve your problems, I may be able to help. With my clinical training and experience, I can offer unique suggestions and solutions tailored to your situation. I have been helping couples and families resolve their differences for years. If you feel stuck and you don't know where else to turn, I can help you make positive changes in your life.
(321) 392-2992 View (321) 392-2992
Photo of Karyna Auletta, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Karyna Auletta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Are you tired of going to a therapist who just "listens"? Most of my clients find success given my authentic approach, extensive educational background, evidence-based approaches, and an environment for growth. I'm not your average therapist! Through life's ups and downs, I'll guide you through learning, creating, and solidifying skills that will help you progress through not only high performance but also healthy mental functioning and improving your overall relationships. I understand the unique needs of each family/individual and tailor my approach to best fit my clients. One size does not fit all.
Are you tired of going to a therapist who just "listens"? Most of my clients find success given my authentic approach, extensive educational background, evidence-based approaches, and an environment for growth. I'm not your average therapist! Through life's ups and downs, I'll guide you through learning, creating, and solidifying skills that will help you progress through not only high performance but also healthy mental functioning and improving your overall relationships. I understand the unique needs of each family/individual and tailor my approach to best fit my clients. One size does not fit all.
(321) 416-1481 View (321) 416-1481
Photo of Kelly Hunsaker, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Kelly Hunsaker
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Online Only
Helping Teens and Adults overcome Anxiety, Trauma, and Life Stressors. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master of Science in Counseling and advanced training in trauma and adverse life experiences. I work primarily with adolescents and adults through telehealth, providing accessible, consistent, and collaborative care. Many reactions we struggle with—like anxiety, stress, or difficulty managing relationships—are not personal flaws, but understandable patterns shaped by trauma, life experiences, and nervous system responses. Understanding how this impacts us personally is the first step toward meaningful change.
Helping Teens and Adults overcome Anxiety, Trauma, and Life Stressors. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master of Science in Counseling and advanced training in trauma and adverse life experiences. I work primarily with adolescents and adults through telehealth, providing accessible, consistent, and collaborative care. Many reactions we struggle with—like anxiety, stress, or difficulty managing relationships—are not personal flaws, but understandable patterns shaped by trauma, life experiences, and nervous system responses. Understanding how this impacts us personally is the first step toward meaningful change.
(321) 461-3534 View (321) 461-3534
Photo of Terry Follett, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Terry Follett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Are you struggling with a present or past relationship causing you conflict, stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, loneliness, or depression? We can help. Connecting, trusting, communicating, being intimate, and effective problem-solving, are important in developing a satisfying relationship. Choosing the right professional is very important in solving relationship challenges, whether with a partner, extended family, as parent(s), or with a friend.
Are you struggling with a present or past relationship causing you conflict, stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, loneliness, or depression? We can help. Connecting, trusting, communicating, being intimate, and effective problem-solving, are important in developing a satisfying relationship. Choosing the right professional is very important in solving relationship challenges, whether with a partner, extended family, as parent(s), or with a friend.
(321) 504-5985 View (321) 504-5985
Photo of Julie Langton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julie Langton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Merritt Island, FL 32953
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Approved Clinical Social Worker Supervisor who believes healing doesn't have to happen within four walls. I specialize in supporting women through life's transitions, challenges, and deeply personal journeys. I offer walk-and-talk therapy outdoors-whether along the beach or in peaceful natural settings—because movement and nature can create space for clarity, grounding, and meaningful growth. My work centers on women's issues including identity shifts, relationships, motherhood, anxiety, self-worth, and reclaiming your voice.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Approved Clinical Social Worker Supervisor who believes healing doesn't have to happen within four walls. I specialize in supporting women through life's transitions, challenges, and deeply personal journeys. I offer walk-and-talk therapy outdoors-whether along the beach or in peaceful natural settings—because movement and nature can create space for clarity, grounding, and meaningful growth. My work centers on women's issues including identity shifts, relationships, motherhood, anxiety, self-worth, and reclaiming your voice.
(321) 486-6227 View (321) 486-6227

See more therapy options for Merritt Island

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Merritt Island, FL

60+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Merritt Island, FL who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
83% Depression
74% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
70% Grief
65% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
82% Aetna
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Merritt Island, FL see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Merritt Island?

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.