Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Candis Cochran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Candis Cochran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Welcome! I applaud you for taking the steps to help yourself grow. I have over 10 years of experience helping people discover how to be the best version of themself. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed or depressed or feel that you are missing out, struggling to find joy or are becoming overly cynical I would love to talk with you and help you figure out what is missing. If you struggle with people pleasing, enabling, or over functioning this can also make life feel overwhelming but I would love to help. If you are struggling to connect with your partner or have a lot of miscommunications I can help you create a thriving marriage.
Welcome! I applaud you for taking the steps to help yourself grow. I have over 10 years of experience helping people discover how to be the best version of themself. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed or depressed or feel that you are missing out, struggling to find joy or are becoming overly cynical I would love to talk with you and help you figure out what is missing. If you struggle with people pleasing, enabling, or over functioning this can also make life feel overwhelming but I would love to help. If you are struggling to connect with your partner or have a lot of miscommunications I can help you create a thriving marriage.
(865) 518-8415 View (865) 518-8415
Photo of Patty Warner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Patty Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I was born and raised in Knoxville, TN. I did my training in Houston, Texas, where I lived for 24 years. I've been in practice for over 15 years. I am a strong Christian. But I only do Christian counseling when asked to do so. I am very LGBT friendly. I believe everybody deserves dignity and respect. We could all use a little help sometimes. I work best with people who are open to feedback and able to discuss concerns without judgment or reserve.
I was born and raised in Knoxville, TN. I did my training in Houston, Texas, where I lived for 24 years. I've been in practice for over 15 years. I am a strong Christian. But I only do Christian counseling when asked to do so. I am very LGBT friendly. I believe everybody deserves dignity and respect. We could all use a little help sometimes. I work best with people who are open to feedback and able to discuss concerns without judgment or reserve.
(865) 320-0513 View (865) 320-0513
Photo of Linn A Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Linn A Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
(865) 234-4215 View (865) 234-4215
Photo of Carrie Fair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Carrie Fair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Many of us are private people, who could use a little extra support and direction to overcome life's challenges. Acceptance and Confidentiality are two important aspects of Fairhaven Counseling & Consulting. Throughout my career I have learned that clients progress most effectively with an honest, non-judgmental, compassionate, but direct approach. I love watching clients rediscover their inner strength and begin to experience the joys life has to offer. I offer both personal & professional perspectives to overcoming trauma and rebuilding a life worth living.
Many of us are private people, who could use a little extra support and direction to overcome life's challenges. Acceptance and Confidentiality are two important aspects of Fairhaven Counseling & Consulting. Throughout my career I have learned that clients progress most effectively with an honest, non-judgmental, compassionate, but direct approach. I love watching clients rediscover their inner strength and begin to experience the joys life has to offer. I offer both personal & professional perspectives to overcoming trauma and rebuilding a life worth living.
(865) 408-7198 View (865) 408-7198
Photo of Jillian Creswell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Jillian Creswell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with challenges related to daily stressors, past trauma or life transitions? I understand that change can be scary, and I am here to help clients through this process. I enjoy working with adults as they navigate life changes, learn skills for managing stress, and improve relationships. I have experience with teens, college students and young professionals, as they explore self-identity, family conflict, and challenges related to work/life balance. I am also passionate about helping clients heal from childhood trauma and find new ways to manage emotions.
Are you struggling with challenges related to daily stressors, past trauma or life transitions? I understand that change can be scary, and I am here to help clients through this process. I enjoy working with adults as they navigate life changes, learn skills for managing stress, and improve relationships. I have experience with teens, college students and young professionals, as they explore self-identity, family conflict, and challenges related to work/life balance. I am also passionate about helping clients heal from childhood trauma and find new ways to manage emotions.
(865) 270-4729 View (865) 270-4729
Photo of Lauren Wiest Barbian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Lauren Wiest Barbian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37920
I help Christian women who feel like life just isn't working out. Maybe you give constantly to others, but your relationships are still not satisfying. You work really hard to make things ok, but hard things keep happening, you aren't sure who you are, and you can't shake a sense of general disappointment with God, other people, and life in general. I'll work with you to overcome those hard things and disappointments in a way that lets you move toward healthy and connected relationships with God and other people.
I help Christian women who feel like life just isn't working out. Maybe you give constantly to others, but your relationships are still not satisfying. You work really hard to make things ok, but hard things keep happening, you aren't sure who you are, and you can't shake a sense of general disappointment with God, other people, and life in general. I'll work with you to overcome those hard things and disappointments in a way that lets you move toward healthy and connected relationships with God and other people.
(865) 234-3376 View (865) 234-3376
Photo of Christopher Montanaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Christopher Montanaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. As a professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve a greater level of well-being and fulfillment in their lives. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques and strategies, I work collaboratively with clients to address a wide range of concerns. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, job issues, divorce, family dysfunction, anger issues and more.
Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. As a professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve a greater level of well-being and fulfillment in their lives. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques and strategies, I work collaboratively with clients to address a wide range of concerns. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, job issues, divorce, family dysfunction, anger issues and more.
(865) 253-8857 View (865) 253-8857
Photo of Camelia Guernsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Camelia Guernsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
My primary goal in working with clients is to build a trusting and transparent relationship where together we can explore the relationship they have with self, important people in their lives, and the unique environments they navigate. This means my approach is insight-driven and built on the belief that self-knowledge is an empowering tool needed to create a deeper understanding of patterns, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In my experience, this process creates space for the brain to consciously make the desired changes.
My primary goal in working with clients is to build a trusting and transparent relationship where together we can explore the relationship they have with self, important people in their lives, and the unique environments they navigate. This means my approach is insight-driven and built on the belief that self-knowledge is an empowering tool needed to create a deeper understanding of patterns, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In my experience, this process creates space for the brain to consciously make the desired changes.
(865) 280-1532 View (865) 280-1532
Photo of Jo P Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jo P Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
When you are hurting you need someone to talk to who will help you figure out what to do. There are always changes we can make to be less miserable. I particularly enjoy working with couples having marital problems, with teenagers, and with people dealing with grief and loss.
When you are hurting you need someone to talk to who will help you figure out what to do. There are always changes we can make to be less miserable. I particularly enjoy working with couples having marital problems, with teenagers, and with people dealing with grief and loss.
(865) 518-2749 x102 View (865) 518-2749 x102
Photo of Jessica Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Jessica Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Healing, Growth, Change.....Working toward these three things is the core of my therapeutic approach. I also believe in starting in the “Here and Now” to provide a foundation of coping with current happenings and difficult emotions. Once that foundation is built, we work toward “peeling away the layers” of unpacking the past or looking ahead to the future. Common themes that I address are self-esteem, communication, coping skills for depression and anxiety, success practices and stress management. I will provide a safe, nonjudgemental and nurturing space for you to process whatever it is that you need to work through.
Healing, Growth, Change.....Working toward these three things is the core of my therapeutic approach. I also believe in starting in the “Here and Now” to provide a foundation of coping with current happenings and difficult emotions. Once that foundation is built, we work toward “peeling away the layers” of unpacking the past or looking ahead to the future. Common themes that I address are self-esteem, communication, coping skills for depression and anxiety, success practices and stress management. I will provide a safe, nonjudgemental and nurturing space for you to process whatever it is that you need to work through.
(865) 337-8355 View (865) 337-8355
Photo of Jennifer Schariter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Jennifer Schariter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have worked successfully with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and family systems. I am skilled in working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, adoptions, foster care, trauma, and abuse. I will help you regain a sense of hope, help create manageable solutions, and aid you in processing trauma, with the goal of achieving a better quality of life. I am person-centered, skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I do not take insurance; however, eligible individuals may qualify for a financial assistance program for access to treatment.
I have worked successfully with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and family systems. I am skilled in working with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, adoptions, foster care, trauma, and abuse. I will help you regain a sense of hope, help create manageable solutions, and aid you in processing trauma, with the goal of achieving a better quality of life. I am person-centered, skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I do not take insurance; however, eligible individuals may qualify for a financial assistance program for access to treatment.
(865) 658-8973 View (865) 658-8973
Photo of Kawal Jooma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Kawal Jooma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Not accepting new clients
My name is Kawal Jooma and I am a Licensed Masters Social Worker here in Knoxville, TN. I graduated from Boston University with my MSW with a specialty in children, youth and families. I have worked many populations including, but not limited to, children, youth, teenagers, adults and older adults. My passion lies in working with individuals who have early onset psychosis, personality disorders, and mood disorders. Some modalities used in my practice are: CBT, DBT, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you, and helping you navigate the different obstacles you face daily,
My name is Kawal Jooma and I am a Licensed Masters Social Worker here in Knoxville, TN. I graduated from Boston University with my MSW with a specialty in children, youth and families. I have worked many populations including, but not limited to, children, youth, teenagers, adults and older adults. My passion lies in working with individuals who have early onset psychosis, personality disorders, and mood disorders. Some modalities used in my practice are: CBT, DBT, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you, and helping you navigate the different obstacles you face daily,
(865) 213-7469 View (865) 213-7469
Photo of Joyce M Cartor, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Joyce M Cartor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process; the therapist must be serious and respectful and possess a solid reservoir of knowledge about the human condition. The therapy-seeker must, in addition to wanting symptom relief, bring to the process his or her curiosity and some desire for increased self awareness. People come to psychotherapy in emotional turmoil and/or pain. While this is usually the first focus, quickly it will become important to try to understand one's personality style, one's relationship patterns and the roots of these patterns, one's thinking style and the characteristic way one goes about managing, deflecting or enacting emotional storms.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process; the therapist must be serious and respectful and possess a solid reservoir of knowledge about the human condition. The therapy-seeker must, in addition to wanting symptom relief, bring to the process his or her curiosity and some desire for increased self awareness. People come to psychotherapy in emotional turmoil and/or pain. While this is usually the first focus, quickly it will become important to try to understand one's personality style, one's relationship patterns and the roots of these patterns, one's thinking style and the characteristic way one goes about managing, deflecting or enacting emotional storms.
(865) 584-7470 View (865) 584-7470
Photo of Becca Lehmicke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Becca Lehmicke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
If you are tired of talking about abstract solutions and want to experience a new dynamic with your partner, we could have success working together. Our sessions together will set the stage for you and your partner to interact in a new way in the therapy office and the outside world. I am willing to support you individually, and as a couple, as you look to deepen and strengthen your relationship. We could be a good fit if you are looking for a therapist to guide you through seasons of joy or heartache.
If you are tired of talking about abstract solutions and want to experience a new dynamic with your partner, we could have success working together. Our sessions together will set the stage for you and your partner to interact in a new way in the therapy office and the outside world. I am willing to support you individually, and as a couple, as you look to deepen and strengthen your relationship. We could be a good fit if you are looking for a therapist to guide you through seasons of joy or heartache.
(865) 601-2833 View (865) 601-2833
Photo of Jeff Cockerham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Jeff Cockerham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, MSc, MDiv
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in couples (Gottman Method - Level 2), depression, anxiety, anger, and religious trauma. I am not accepting insurance at this time. Both in-person and telehealth appointments are available. If you'd like to make an appointment, click here: www.jeff-cockerham-lpc-mhsp.square.site/
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in couples (Gottman Method - Level 2), depression, anxiety, anger, and religious trauma. I am not accepting insurance at this time. Both in-person and telehealth appointments are available. If you'd like to make an appointment, click here: www.jeff-cockerham-lpc-mhsp.square.site/
(865) 351-2646 View (865) 351-2646
Photo of Matt Scheuneman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Matt Scheuneman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we're giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. - Fred Rogers. My passion is to help others find that value. Most of my focus is on those struggling with depression, anxiety, relational concerns, concerns with sexual health, and stress of life. I am a licensed counselor who works with clients from adolescents to adults, working with individuals, couples, and families.
All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we're giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. - Fred Rogers. My passion is to help others find that value. Most of my focus is on those struggling with depression, anxiety, relational concerns, concerns with sexual health, and stress of life. I am a licensed counselor who works with clients from adolescents to adults, working with individuals, couples, and families.
(865) 328-4127 View (865) 328-4127
Photo of Candace L Huddleston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Candace L Huddleston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
In a society that has increasingly more information about mental health issues along with increasing openness to discuss mental health concerns, are you someone who would like to develop that even further with the help of a mental health professional? I work alongside my clients to help them understand all this information in the context of their own experiences. We then work together to identify ways to integrate that, brainstorm skills and implement tools to improve overall quality of life.
In a society that has increasingly more information about mental health issues along with increasing openness to discuss mental health concerns, are you someone who would like to develop that even further with the help of a mental health professional? I work alongside my clients to help them understand all this information in the context of their own experiences. We then work together to identify ways to integrate that, brainstorm skills and implement tools to improve overall quality of life.
(865) 426-1492 View (865) 426-1492
Photo of Angela L Obear, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Angela L Obear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
The decision to come to counseling is an important step and I understand that participation in counseling is an incredibly brave act. My goal is to create a safe, comfortable space for you as we work together to find solutions, relief, and balance in your life. Through my own experiences in counseling and in counseling others, I have come to believe that hope, redemption, acceptance, and inner peace can become a part of every person's story. My approach to counseling is collaborative, holistic, and interactive.
The decision to come to counseling is an important step and I understand that participation in counseling is an incredibly brave act. My goal is to create a safe, comfortable space for you as we work together to find solutions, relief, and balance in your life. Through my own experiences in counseling and in counseling others, I have come to believe that hope, redemption, acceptance, and inner peace can become a part of every person's story. My approach to counseling is collaborative, holistic, and interactive.
(865) 234-3098 View (865) 234-3098
Photo of Brittany Tyler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Brittany Tyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
Brittany Tyler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in TN with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about empowering individuals to take the steps necessary for a better life. Brittany specializes in treating individuals with depression, stress, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, abuse, self-esteem, and relationship issues. Brittany completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. She has worked with clients with a wide range of diagnoses and life circumstances.
Brittany Tyler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in TN with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about empowering individuals to take the steps necessary for a better life. Brittany specializes in treating individuals with depression, stress, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, abuse, self-esteem, and relationship issues. Brittany completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. She has worked with clients with a wide range of diagnoses and life circumstances.
(865) 674-1871 View (865) 674-1871
Dianne Lemieux
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Perhaps you are struggling with a recent loss, a sudden health crisis, betrayal or conflict with a loved one. Perhaps you have suffered trauma that you have never shared and holding the secret has become burdensome and lonely. Maybe you struggle with depression or anxiety or racing thoughts that keep you up at night. Maybe the old ways you used to cope no longer help and are actually causing you or your loved ones more pain. Our old ways of coping can become self-limiting and cause us to “live small”. We hide our authentic selves, become self-critical and feel powerless to change both our inner experience and our outer situation.
Perhaps you are struggling with a recent loss, a sudden health crisis, betrayal or conflict with a loved one. Perhaps you have suffered trauma that you have never shared and holding the secret has become burdensome and lonely. Maybe you struggle with depression or anxiety or racing thoughts that keep you up at night. Maybe the old ways you used to cope no longer help and are actually causing you or your loved ones more pain. Our old ways of coping can become self-limiting and cause us to “live small”. We hide our authentic selves, become self-critical and feel powerless to change both our inner experience and our outer situation.
(865) 344-6157 View (865) 344-6157

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.