Therapists in Johnston, IA

Photo of Erin Young, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin Young
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
With a blend of warmth, candor, and a sense of humor, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and growth. I offer a multifaceted approach to address a wide range of concerns. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, or perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, I'm here to provide compassionate support and effective strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll work to uncover underlying patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and cultivate new perspectives that empower you to thrive.
With a blend of warmth, candor, and a sense of humor, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and growth. I offer a multifaceted approach to address a wide range of concerns. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, or perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, I'm here to provide compassionate support and effective strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we'll work to uncover underlying patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and cultivate new perspectives that empower you to thrive.
(515) 379-8560 View (515) 379-8560
Photo of Laurene Franco, LMHC, MS, MA, Counselor
Laurene Franco
Counselor, LMHC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Not accepting new clients
Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate life's challenges and transitions? I'm here to support you on your journey towards greater well-being and authenticity. My focus is helping women deal with issues like anxiety, depression, grief and loss, health issues, and life transitions. I specialize in working with women of all ages, college students, and young adults as they navigate their unique life paths. Life can be overwhelming, but I'm here to guide you towards healing and increased joy.
Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate life's challenges and transitions? I'm here to support you on your journey towards greater well-being and authenticity. My focus is helping women deal with issues like anxiety, depression, grief and loss, health issues, and life transitions. I specialize in working with women of all ages, college students, and young adults as they navigate their unique life paths. Life can be overwhelming, but I'm here to guide you towards healing and increased joy.
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Photo of Ann Latham, PhD, Psychologist
Ann Latham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I feel it is a privilege to meet with people of all ages and backgrounds who are willing to seek professional input regarding their personal situations. I work with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults to address a variety of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, stress, family issues, learning difficulties, life transitions, and parenting.
I feel it is a privilege to meet with people of all ages and backgrounds who are willing to seek professional input regarding their personal situations. I work with children, adolescents, families, and individual adults to address a variety of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, stress, family issues, learning difficulties, life transitions, and parenting.
(515) 497-2119 View (515) 497-2119
Photo of Teresa M Bear, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Teresa M Bear
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
“We do not grow by knowing all of the answers, but rather by living with the questions.” - Max De Pree. “Be curious, not judgmental.” -Ted Lasso These two quotes sum up my approach to therapy, and hopefully, to life. Our brains are naturally wired to make sense of things, to organize information into understandable experiences and thoughts. This relentless pursuit of understanding can lead to new discoveries, new technologies, new medicines. However, it can also lead to stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. Balance between curiosity and living with the questions is necessary to a life of integrity.
“We do not grow by knowing all of the answers, but rather by living with the questions.” - Max De Pree. “Be curious, not judgmental.” -Ted Lasso These two quotes sum up my approach to therapy, and hopefully, to life. Our brains are naturally wired to make sense of things, to organize information into understandable experiences and thoughts. This relentless pursuit of understanding can lead to new discoveries, new technologies, new medicines. However, it can also lead to stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. Balance between curiosity and living with the questions is necessary to a life of integrity.
(515) 599-3104 View (515) 599-3104
Photo of Jade Dilliner, tLMHC, Counselor
Jade Dilliner
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, so you will find that my office consists of many toys and games. I also spend a lot of time at the gym, so I like to advocate for incorporating physical activity into daily routines. Incorporating physical movement in session can be beneficial especially when working with children, but it is not required.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, so you will find that my office consists of many toys and games. I also spend a lot of time at the gym, so I like to advocate for incorporating physical activity into daily routines. Incorporating physical movement in session can be beneficial especially when working with children, but it is not required.
(515) 474-7640 View (515) 474-7640
Photo of Caitlin Silveira, LMHC, Counselor
Caitlin Silveira
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
(515) 212-7324 View (515) 212-7324
Photo of Ricc Terranova, tLMHC, CH, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ricc Terranova
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC, CH
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131  (Online Only)
Inspired by Milton Erickson's metaphor of guiding the horse gently, I see my ideal client's issues as disconnection and uncertainty. They need support for growth and self-awareness, aiming to access inner resources. Their goal: embrace change and self-discovery for personal empowerment and fulfillment.
Inspired by Milton Erickson's metaphor of guiding the horse gently, I see my ideal client's issues as disconnection and uncertainty. They need support for growth and self-awareness, aiming to access inner resources. Their goal: embrace change and self-discovery for personal empowerment and fulfillment.
(515) 966-8905 View (515) 966-8905
Photo of Julie McClatchey - Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
(515) 585-1272 View (515) 585-1272
Photo of Sharon Winkel-, MBA, LNHA, NLP, CHT
Sharon Winkel-
MBA, LNHA, NLP, CHT
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131  (Online Only)
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
(515) 212-7066 View (515) 212-7066
Photo of Angela Hopkins, MS , TLMHC, Counselor
Angela Hopkins
Counselor, MS , TLMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Beginning therapy can be a vulnerable time for some folks. Therapy provides a safe space to work on healing, increase feelings of hope and gain support. I provide therapy to teens and adults who are experiencing stress, life transitions/changes, depression, anxiety, grief and sexual behaviors problems in teens. I use a variety of treatment techniques including CBT, Strength-Based Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you identify the problems and learn added strategies, insights and solutions to deal with them more effectively so that you can experience more satisfaction in your life.
Beginning therapy can be a vulnerable time for some folks. Therapy provides a safe space to work on healing, increase feelings of hope and gain support. I provide therapy to teens and adults who are experiencing stress, life transitions/changes, depression, anxiety, grief and sexual behaviors problems in teens. I use a variety of treatment techniques including CBT, Strength-Based Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My goal as a therapist is to help you identify the problems and learn added strategies, insights and solutions to deal with them more effectively so that you can experience more satisfaction in your life.
(515) 705-6163 View (515) 705-6163
Photo of Susan Lang, MA MHA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Susan Lang
Counselor, MA MHA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed and need a calm, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts? You deserve to live a life that you feel excited about and leaves you looking forward to the day ahead! Anxiety and depression can feel like a weight that drags you down and feels like a burden. You really can have the life that you dream of and brings you happiness and fulfillment. I love to help people explore their thoughts and make connections between how their thoughts impact their choices and behavior while also learning how to make changes so that you design the life you want and the life that fulfils you.!
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed and need a calm, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts? You deserve to live a life that you feel excited about and leaves you looking forward to the day ahead! Anxiety and depression can feel like a weight that drags you down and feels like a burden. You really can have the life that you dream of and brings you happiness and fulfillment. I love to help people explore their thoughts and make connections between how their thoughts impact their choices and behavior while also learning how to make changes so that you design the life you want and the life that fulfils you.!
(515) 902-5472 View (515) 902-5472
Photo of Erin Fiala - Comfort Counseling, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Comfort Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. Making the decision to start therapy can be one of the hardest decisions to make. I am Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to fostering growth and resilience. Guided by a person-centered, strengths-based philosophy, I specialize in weaving play therapy techniques, sand tray, and cognitive-behavioral therapy into our therapeutic journey. I empower clients to understand and reshape their thought patterns. My utilization of play therapy techniques and sand tray facilitates a unique and effective approach, especially with younger clients or those who find traditional talk therapy challenging.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. Making the decision to start therapy can be one of the hardest decisions to make. I am Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to fostering growth and resilience. Guided by a person-centered, strengths-based philosophy, I specialize in weaving play therapy techniques, sand tray, and cognitive-behavioral therapy into our therapeutic journey. I empower clients to understand and reshape their thought patterns. My utilization of play therapy techniques and sand tray facilitates a unique and effective approach, especially with younger clients or those who find traditional talk therapy challenging.
(515) 523-6578 View (515) 523-6578
Photo of LeAnn Waterhouse - Willow Grove Therapy Group, PhD, Psychologist
Willow Grove Therapy Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
(515) 393-6894 View (515) 393-6894
Photo of Alison Holt, LMHC, Counselor
Alison Holt
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I am a child and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. I work with both children, and, adults who are parents. My specialties include teens, parent coaching, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ youth. I have been successful at treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ODD, behavioral problems, stress management difficulties, and more. Overall, my goal is to ensure that you feel safe and supported right from the start by creating a space that is inclusive, non-judgmental and fun for both children and parents.
I am a child and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. I work with both children, and, adults who are parents. My specialties include teens, parent coaching, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ youth. I have been successful at treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ODD, behavioral problems, stress management difficulties, and more. Overall, my goal is to ensure that you feel safe and supported right from the start by creating a space that is inclusive, non-judgmental and fun for both children and parents.
(515) 585-6117 View (515) 585-6117
Photo of Jacob Dickey - Jacob Dickey-Therapy Group Inc, tLMHC, Counselor
Jacob Dickey-Therapy Group Inc
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
Hello! I believe therapy is most effective when a clinician is able to understand a client's story - How did you get here? Where do you want to go? What keeps getting in your way? Because of this, I employ the use of Narrative therapy and Narrative driven interventions. These include emotional deconstructions and mindfulness-based analyses of conflicts in relationships and everyday life. If you feel like we may be a good fit, please call 319-209-2084 to schedule. I see couples and individuals ages 14 and up in person in the Des Moines area or via telehealth for those across Iowa.
Hello! I believe therapy is most effective when a clinician is able to understand a client's story - How did you get here? Where do you want to go? What keeps getting in your way? Because of this, I employ the use of Narrative therapy and Narrative driven interventions. These include emotional deconstructions and mindfulness-based analyses of conflicts in relationships and everyday life. If you feel like we may be a good fit, please call 319-209-2084 to schedule. I see couples and individuals ages 14 and up in person in the Des Moines area or via telehealth for those across Iowa.
(319) 209-2084 View (319) 209-2084
Photo of Charlie Saunders, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charlie Saunders
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) who especially enjoys helping clients find, accept, and appreciate who they are by identifying and celebrating their strengths. I strive to create a space without judgment where clients are free to be their authentic selves - to feel, process, grieve, and celebrate together in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. In this spirit, I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and their life experience, and that this expertise can and should be used in therapy alongside a my professional knowledge and skills.
I'm currently accepting new clients in Johnston! I'm a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) who especially enjoys helping clients find, accept, and appreciate who they are by identifying and celebrating their strengths. I strive to create a space without judgment where clients are free to be their authentic selves - to feel, process, grieve, and celebrate together in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. In this spirit, I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and their life experience, and that this expertise can and should be used in therapy alongside a my professional knowledge and skills.
(515) 709-4784 View (515) 709-4784
Photo of Colin W Priest - Calm Tree Therapy, LMHC, CRC, Counselor
Calm Tree Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
If you’re reading this right now you’ve likely experienced a lot of pain. Maybe you feel lost and don’t know what to do, or you’ve tried many things and nothing seems to work. Maybe things have felt “off” for some time and you are tired of the way you feel. One thing is for sure, you’re sick and tired of feeling the way you do right now and you want someone who can help. You want someone who you can trust, someone who respects you and sees the struggle you’ve had to endure. Most importantly, however, you want someone who can help you fix your problem so you can get back to living a happy life, and finally have some peace of mind.
If you’re reading this right now you’ve likely experienced a lot of pain. Maybe you feel lost and don’t know what to do, or you’ve tried many things and nothing seems to work. Maybe things have felt “off” for some time and you are tired of the way you feel. One thing is for sure, you’re sick and tired of feeling the way you do right now and you want someone who can help. You want someone who you can trust, someone who respects you and sees the struggle you’ve had to endure. Most importantly, however, you want someone who can help you fix your problem so you can get back to living a happy life, and finally have some peace of mind.
(515) 585-1239 View (515) 585-1239
Photo of Maddie Moree, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maddie Moree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Hi, I am Maddie! I am a therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients identify and actively work on their therapeutic goals. I specialize in empowering individuals facing various life challenges. My practice focuses on supporting individuals navigating infertility and pregnancy loss along with pregnancy after loss. I have years of experience helping individuals work through stress, work/school related issues, creating and upholding boundaries, communication (including people pleasing tendencies) and becoming strong advocates for themselves!
Hi, I am Maddie! I am a therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients identify and actively work on their therapeutic goals. I specialize in empowering individuals facing various life challenges. My practice focuses on supporting individuals navigating infertility and pregnancy loss along with pregnancy after loss. I have years of experience helping individuals work through stress, work/school related issues, creating and upholding boundaries, communication (including people pleasing tendencies) and becoming strong advocates for themselves!
(515) 585-3214 View (515) 585-3214
Photo of Deena Leonard, LMHC, Counselor
Deena Leonard
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
I believe therapy should be individualized based on each person’s specific needs. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients to change what can be changed and to identify appropriate coping skills to what cannot be changed. I do this by creating a safe, client-centered therapeutic environment that allows the client to identify their individual goals. I believe each person is the ultimate expert in their own lives and I am there to assist them in achieving their personal goals.
I believe therapy should be individualized based on each person’s specific needs. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients to change what can be changed and to identify appropriate coping skills to what cannot be changed. I do this by creating a safe, client-centered therapeutic environment that allows the client to identify their individual goals. I believe each person is the ultimate expert in their own lives and I am there to assist them in achieving their personal goals.
(515) 400-3819 View (515) 400-3819
Photo of Angela Emerson - Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy, LISW, CCTP, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CCTP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
We know that many of us feel that we try so hard to find contentment and happiness in life, but ultimately feel that we either get lost in the maze of life, or we come to a dead end. Our office can be a way to assist you in discovering your path through the maze. Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy seeks to empower individuals to embrace their journey towards mental health wellness with compassionate care, personalized support, and evidence-based interventions. Our mission is to foster resilience, healing, and growth by providing accessible, inclusive, and holistic mental health services tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
We know that many of us feel that we try so hard to find contentment and happiness in life, but ultimately feel that we either get lost in the maze of life, or we come to a dead end. Our office can be a way to assist you in discovering your path through the maze. Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy seeks to empower individuals to embrace their journey towards mental health wellness with compassionate care, personalized support, and evidence-based interventions. Our mission is to foster resilience, healing, and growth by providing accessible, inclusive, and holistic mental health services tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
(515) 466-5340 View (515) 466-5340
1

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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Johnston, IA

60+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in Johnston, IA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
80% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
78% Trauma and PTSD
77% Coping Skills
70% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Wellmark BCBS
64% Blue Cross

How Therapists in Johnston, IA see their clients

92% In Person and Online
8% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Johnston?

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.