Therapists in Delaware County, IA

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Photo of Stefanie Dingbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Stefanie Dingbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Manchester, IA 52057
Not accepting new clients
I firmly believe in order to experience true healing in life one must start by discovering the underlying root cause of their pain, stress, or trauma and ultimately working through those areas. I don’t believe in quick band-aid fixes or short-and-sweet solutions. I strive to first build a firm foundation together, built with mutual trust and commitment; knowing the path to healing is not usually linear. I also want you to believe you are resilient enough to come out of any obstacle stronger than when you started. What I strive for in every client interaction is you feeling heard, understood, and accepted just as you are.
I firmly believe in order to experience true healing in life one must start by discovering the underlying root cause of their pain, stress, or trauma and ultimately working through those areas. I don’t believe in quick band-aid fixes or short-and-sweet solutions. I strive to first build a firm foundation together, built with mutual trust and commitment; knowing the path to healing is not usually linear. I also want you to believe you are resilient enough to come out of any obstacle stronger than when you started. What I strive for in every client interaction is you feeling heard, understood, and accepted just as you are.
(563) 674-6012 View (563) 674-6012
Photo of Jenni Hentges, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Jenni Hentges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Manchester, IA 52057
It can be hard asking for help, but I am eager to get to know you and your story and help you create a positive change in your life. I serve both children and adults in need of a safe space to find the skills they need to thrive. I have a designated play room where children can express their creativity and feel comfortable talking with me. My office is also a safe, confidential environment where adults can feel empowered to share their thoughts and feelings and know their voices are heard.
It can be hard asking for help, but I am eager to get to know you and your story and help you create a positive change in your life. I serve both children and adults in need of a safe space to find the skills they need to thrive. I have a designated play room where children can express their creativity and feel comfortable talking with me. My office is also a safe, confidential environment where adults can feel empowered to share their thoughts and feelings and know their voices are heard.
(888) 330-4771 View (888) 330-4771
Photo of Susie Schaul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Susie Schaul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Manchester, IA 52057
With over 25 years of experience in social work, I know that life can bring challenges that sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or simply struggling to find your footing, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard and understood. I work with teens (13+) and adults, both court-ordered and voluntary, using a strength-based, person-centered approach. I believe in meeting people exactly where they are and helping them build on their own strengths to create lasting change.
With over 25 years of experience in social work, I know that life can bring challenges that sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or simply struggling to find your footing, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can be heard and understood. I work with teens (13+) and adults, both court-ordered and voluntary, using a strength-based, person-centered approach. I believe in meeting people exactly where they are and helping them build on their own strengths to create lasting change.
(319) 205-6444 View (319) 205-6444
Photo of Colleen R Kuhse-Portzline, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Colleen R Kuhse-Portzline
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Manchester, IA 52057
Waitlist for new clients
Hi. I am Colleen Kuhse-Portzline. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. More specifically, I’m a therapist who is passionate about helping people navigate life’s twists and turns. Are you feeling anxious, confused or maybe just “stuck”? Perhaps you’re missing the joy in life you once had or want to feel alive and thriving again. I believe in the idea of wholehearted living, of letting go of what holds us back and cultivating meaningful relationships.
Hi. I am Colleen Kuhse-Portzline. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. More specifically, I’m a therapist who is passionate about helping people navigate life’s twists and turns. Are you feeling anxious, confused or maybe just “stuck”? Perhaps you’re missing the joy in life you once had or want to feel alive and thriving again. I believe in the idea of wholehearted living, of letting go of what holds us back and cultivating meaningful relationships.
(563) 363-6939 View (563) 363-6939
Photo of Jacquelyn (Schultz) Goebel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Jacquelyn (Schultz) Goebel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Online Only
My professional experience over the past twenty-seven years has concentrated on children, teenagers, adults, couples and families including in-home and private practice. I am familiar with how individuals and families often require collaboration across settings and between service providers. My focus is on listening and finding the best approach to help someone meet their goals out of therapy. I realize that finding a therapist can be difficult. I work hard to establish a relationship in which a person feels understood and respected. I am a faith base counselor for those who are looking for that.
My professional experience over the past twenty-seven years has concentrated on children, teenagers, adults, couples and families including in-home and private practice. I am familiar with how individuals and families often require collaboration across settings and between service providers. My focus is on listening and finding the best approach to help someone meet their goals out of therapy. I realize that finding a therapist can be difficult. I work hard to establish a relationship in which a person feels understood and respected. I am a faith base counselor for those who are looking for that.
(319) 774-4674 View (319) 774-4674
Photo of Abbie Placke, Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Abbie Placke
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
1 Endorsed
Manchester, IA 52057
Waitlist for new clients
Abbie facilitates a supportive and safe environment in session that allows individuals to embrace their authentic selves. When working with Abbie, you will be able to collaborate in order to set goals for yourself or your child that will allow them to bloom into the best version of themselves. She utilizes a variety of techniques in therapy, including cognitive-behavioral and play therapy approaches, to best fit the needs of her clients. Abbie is passionate about helping individuals and looks forward to meeting with you and supporting your or your child's mental health goals!
Abbie facilitates a supportive and safe environment in session that allows individuals to embrace their authentic selves. When working with Abbie, you will be able to collaborate in order to set goals for yourself or your child that will allow them to bloom into the best version of themselves. She utilizes a variety of techniques in therapy, including cognitive-behavioral and play therapy approaches, to best fit the needs of her clients. Abbie is passionate about helping individuals and looks forward to meeting with you and supporting your or your child's mental health goals!
(563) 748-5918 View (563) 748-5918
Photo of Shana L Willenbring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA Ed
Shana L Willenbring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA Ed
2 Endorsed
Manchester, IA 52057
Shana Willenbring is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the State of Iowa. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa and a Master of Education with a School Counseling endorsement. With over 20 years of experience in educational settings, Shana brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her therapeutic practice. She has extensive experience providing counseling and crisis intervention in both school and community environments. She offers office-based, school-based, and virtual therapy services through the Manchester, IA office, working with individuals ages 3 and up.
Shana Willenbring is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the State of Iowa. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa and a Master of Education with a School Counseling endorsement. With over 20 years of experience in educational settings, Shana brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her therapeutic practice. She has extensive experience providing counseling and crisis intervention in both school and community environments. She offers office-based, school-based, and virtual therapy services through the Manchester, IA office, working with individuals ages 3 and up.
(563) 655-4578 View (563) 655-4578
Photo of Karlyn Jaeger Bouska, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Karlyn Jaeger Bouska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Karlyn began with Rise Counseling and Consulting in June 2024. Karlyn provides office-based and virtual therapy out of our Dyersville Office. Karlyn is trained in trauma-informed care and has experience working with anxiety, depression, inattention, hyperactivity, trauma, and adjustment-related stressors. Karlyn specializes in working with teens and adults.
Karlyn began with Rise Counseling and Consulting in June 2024. Karlyn provides office-based and virtual therapy out of our Dyersville Office. Karlyn is trained in trauma-informed care and has experience working with anxiety, depression, inattention, hyperactivity, trauma, and adjustment-related stressors. Karlyn specializes in working with teens and adults.
(563) 412-5647 View (563) 412-5647
Photo of Brooke Martin, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Brooke Martin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Serves Area
Unresolved trauma often leaves behind persistent emotional burden. Feelings of detachment or over dependence, heightened emotional sensitivity or shutdown, lack of sense of self and life direction, difficulty building or being in healthy relationships, or cycles of problematic behavior that we cannot seem to break can be just some of manifestations of trauma. Unresolved emotional trauma takes away from our happiness and ability to live and love in the way we desire.
Unresolved trauma often leaves behind persistent emotional burden. Feelings of detachment or over dependence, heightened emotional sensitivity or shutdown, lack of sense of self and life direction, difficulty building or being in healthy relationships, or cycles of problematic behavior that we cannot seem to break can be just some of manifestations of trauma. Unresolved emotional trauma takes away from our happiness and ability to live and love in the way we desire.
(563) 231-7931 View (563) 231-7931
Photo of Alyssa Krob, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Alyssa Krob
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Each one of us possesses a vastly different collection of experiences, which means we all view life differently. This is one reason I value a collaborative approach when working with you. As your therapist, I believe that you are the expert of your life. My goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and to work together to develop a treatment approach based upon your unique desires and needs. While utilizing a non-judgmental, flexible approach, it is my duty to help you uncover your hopes and to create the future you wish to see. I hope to help you find the courage to embrace vulnerability and show up as your most authentic self.
Each one of us possesses a vastly different collection of experiences, which means we all view life differently. This is one reason I value a collaborative approach when working with you. As your therapist, I believe that you are the expert of your life. My goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and to work together to develop a treatment approach based upon your unique desires and needs. While utilizing a non-judgmental, flexible approach, it is my duty to help you uncover your hopes and to create the future you wish to see. I hope to help you find the courage to embrace vulnerability and show up as your most authentic self.
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Photo of Alexandra (Alex) Stecklein, Marriage & Family Therapist, tLMFT, CTP
Alexandra (Alex) Stecklein
Marriage & Family Therapist, tLMFT, CTP
Serves Area
Maybe things look fine from the outside, but inside it feels heavy. Life can be a lot- meltdowns, miscommunication, marriage stress, school calls, system involvement, or just the slow burn of feeling stuck. I help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families find the space to breathe, sort through what’s real, and figure out what’s next. Whether you need to feel seen, supported, challenged, or just not so alone in it all, I’ll meet you where you are and walk with you from there - without judgment and without pretending. If you're ready to be real, you're in the right place and I’m ready to meet you there.
Maybe things look fine from the outside, but inside it feels heavy. Life can be a lot- meltdowns, miscommunication, marriage stress, school calls, system involvement, or just the slow burn of feeling stuck. I help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families find the space to breathe, sort through what’s real, and figure out what’s next. Whether you need to feel seen, supported, challenged, or just not so alone in it all, I’ll meet you where you are and walk with you from there - without judgment and without pretending. If you're ready to be real, you're in the right place and I’m ready to meet you there.
(563) 204-2151 View (563) 204-2151

Online Therapists

Switzer Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Marengo, IA 52301
Karla Robison, lMHC I believe therapy should be a supportive and collaborative space where individuals feel safe to explore their experiences, develop insight, and work toward meaningful change. I strive to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where clients can openly process challenges and build the tools needed for healing and personal growth. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship concerns. My approach is client-centered and grounded in evidence-based practices.
Karla Robison, lMHC I believe therapy should be a supportive and collaborative space where individuals feel safe to explore their experiences, develop insight, and work toward meaningful change. I strive to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where clients can openly process challenges and build the tools needed for healing and personal growth. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship concerns. My approach is client-centered and grounded in evidence-based practices.
(319) 289-7178 View (319) 289-7178
Photo of Autum Yarger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Autum Yarger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
You may be facing challenges without clear solutions, such as relationship difficulties, trauma, or regrets about life. I am here to support you during this difficult time. Together, we can build coping skills, gain insight into your concerns, and strengthen your motivation for change. I offer a supportive space where you will be heard, encouraged, and guided when you feel stuck or overwhelmed.
You may be facing challenges without clear solutions, such as relationship difficulties, trauma, or regrets about life. I am here to support you during this difficult time. Together, we can build coping skills, gain insight into your concerns, and strengthen your motivation for change. I offer a supportive space where you will be heard, encouraged, and guided when you feel stuck or overwhelmed.
(319) 343-1466 View (319) 343-1466
Photo of Grace Weiner, Marriage & Family Therapist, t-LMFT
Grace Weiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, t-LMFT
9 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and safe—where humor, honesty, and collaboration are welcome. My approach is grounded in kindness and challenge, inviting clients to explore their stories while building new ways of understanding themselves and their relationships. I have experience supporting college students through life transitions, identity exploration, and emotional challenges. I have a special interest in working with high-conflict couples, as well as individuals navigating neurodiversity and religious trauma.
I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and safe—where humor, honesty, and collaboration are welcome. My approach is grounded in kindness and challenge, inviting clients to explore their stories while building new ways of understanding themselves and their relationships. I have experience supporting college students through life transitions, identity exploration, and emotional challenges. I have a special interest in working with high-conflict couples, as well as individuals navigating neurodiversity and religious trauma.
(319) 250-5192 View (319) 250-5192
Photo of Gloria Bieret, Counselor, LMHC
Gloria Bieret
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Gloria! Welcome and congratulations on starting your journey to making positive change in your life. I’m here to make sure that it is meaningful to you. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. I welcome you to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin. I’ll provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself.
Hi there, I'm Gloria! Welcome and congratulations on starting your journey to making positive change in your life. I’m here to make sure that it is meaningful to you. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. I welcome you to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin. I’ll provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself.
(319) 264-2942 View (319) 264-2942
Photo of Richelle Derfus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CCTP
Richelle Derfus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CCTP
North Liberty, IA 52317
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and substance use. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and substance use. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
(319) 250-4305 View (319) 250-4305
Photo of Cara Deininger, Psychologist, PhD
Cara Deininger
Psychologist, PhD
Iowa City, IA 52240
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in unhelpful patterns, especially in relationships or during life transitions? You are not alone. I specialize in women’s mental health, including trauma, relationship issues, and perinatal concerns. I help women navigate anxiety, depression, burnout, and self-doubt with warmth and compassion. My approach is collaborative and insight-oriented. Together, we can explore what may be holding you back and move toward more confidence, self-compassion, and connection, while breaking long-standing relational patterns or healing from complex trauma.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in unhelpful patterns, especially in relationships or during life transitions? You are not alone. I specialize in women’s mental health, including trauma, relationship issues, and perinatal concerns. I help women navigate anxiety, depression, burnout, and self-doubt with warmth and compassion. My approach is collaborative and insight-oriented. Together, we can explore what may be holding you back and move toward more confidence, self-compassion, and connection, while breaking long-standing relational patterns or healing from complex trauma.
(319) 264-6170 View (319) 264-6170
Photo of Lindsey Piper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW
Lindsey Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
While I am on a waitlist for new clients, I have immediate openings for gender affirming care letters. I can offer this service free of charge for those who can't afford it. Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
While I am on a waitlist for new clients, I have immediate openings for gender affirming care letters. I can offer this service free of charge for those who can't afford it. Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
(319) 302-3304 View (319) 302-3304
Photo of Melinda Crane, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC
Melinda Crane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
My primary focus in Christian counseling is developing a secure attachment to God and using evidence based approaches to address mental and relational health concerns. My passion is working with couples and families. I specialize in relationship concerns, addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. Change is possible and I'm committed to providing a safe environment for you to grow.
My primary focus in Christian counseling is developing a secure attachment to God and using evidence based approaches to address mental and relational health concerns. My passion is working with couples and families. I specialize in relationship concerns, addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. Change is possible and I'm committed to providing a safe environment for you to grow.
(319) 284-8534 View (319) 284-8534
Photo of JoAnna Romero Cartaya, Psychologist, PhD
JoAnna Romero Cartaya
Psychologist, PhD
Iowa City, IA 52240
Accepting new clients for Fall 2025. I work with high-achieving students and professionals who may seem successful outwardly but often feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled. Many are managing anxiety, trauma, burnout, or major life transitions that challenge their sense of self and purpose. Using Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), I focus on our real-time connection as a powerful tool for emotional growth and lasting change. Together, we’ll deepen your self-awareness, strengthen meaningful relationships, and help you build a courageous, authentic life grounded in your values, true potential, and deepest aspirations.
Accepting new clients for Fall 2025. I work with high-achieving students and professionals who may seem successful outwardly but often feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled. Many are managing anxiety, trauma, burnout, or major life transitions that challenge their sense of self and purpose. Using Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), I focus on our real-time connection as a powerful tool for emotional growth and lasting change. Together, we’ll deepen your self-awareness, strengthen meaningful relationships, and help you build a courageous, authentic life grounded in your values, true potential, and deepest aspirations.
(319) 774-8237 View (319) 774-8237

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Delaware County, IA

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Delaware County, IA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
82% Grief
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Self Esteem
82% Stress
73% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Midlands Choice
78% Wellmark BCBS
67% Aetna

How Therapists in Delaware County, IA see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Delaware County?

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.