Therapists in Chicago, IL

View neighborhoods in Chicago
Photo of Mara Clare Marin, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Mara Clare Marin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My approach to therapy is thoughtful, collaborative, and relationship based. I work to facilitate a safe and supportive space where I can assist you in improving your emotional well-being and help create impactful change towards improving your mental health and interpersonal relationships. My integrative therapy style is interactive and explores various aspects of identity, culture, and how one’s past and present selves intersect and interact within their world. I work by acknowledging your strengths and help to guide further internal skills as well as cultivate new ones in a non-judgmental and supportive environment.
My approach to therapy is thoughtful, collaborative, and relationship based. I work to facilitate a safe and supportive space where I can assist you in improving your emotional well-being and help create impactful change towards improving your mental health and interpersonal relationships. My integrative therapy style is interactive and explores various aspects of identity, culture, and how one’s past and present selves intersect and interact within their world. I work by acknowledging your strengths and help to guide further internal skills as well as cultivate new ones in a non-judgmental and supportive environment.
(312) 964-8472 View (312) 964-8472
Photo of Mary Madrake, Psychologist, PsyD
Mary Madrake
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Mary Madrake is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with members of the LGBT+ community, neurodivergent clients, those in non-monogamous and alternative relationships, and clients involved in kink. Dr. Madrake has experience in a variety of settings, including schools, community mental health centers, and private practice. They provide individual and couples therapy with older children, adolescents, and adults. They have experience treating trauma, relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality, emotional and behavioral disorders, anxiety, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions.
Dr. Mary Madrake is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with members of the LGBT+ community, neurodivergent clients, those in non-monogamous and alternative relationships, and clients involved in kink. Dr. Madrake has experience in a variety of settings, including schools, community mental health centers, and private practice. They provide individual and couples therapy with older children, adolescents, and adults. They have experience treating trauma, relationship issues, gender identity and sexuality, emotional and behavioral disorders, anxiety, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions.
(708) 272-1885 View (708) 272-1885
Photo of Mona Sterling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Mona Sterling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and earned my Master of Science in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University. Recognizing the immense courage it takes to begin therapy, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental energy throughout my sessions and engage in my clients’ concerns with open curiosity and empathy. I am deeply committed to accompanying my clients as they confront their toughest avoidances, uncover their vulnerabilities, and create meaning out of their difficult life experiences. Through their healing journey, I foster my clients’ process towards achieving their own self-actualization.
I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and earned my Master of Science in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University. Recognizing the immense courage it takes to begin therapy, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental energy throughout my sessions and engage in my clients’ concerns with open curiosity and empathy. I am deeply committed to accompanying my clients as they confront their toughest avoidances, uncover their vulnerabilities, and create meaning out of their difficult life experiences. Through their healing journey, I foster my clients’ process towards achieving their own self-actualization.
(773) 687-6258 View (773) 687-6258
Photo of Angela Ali - Evolve Counseling & Consults, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD
Evolve Counseling & Consults
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Evolve Counseling is a Chicago-based group practice of professional counselors providing psychotherapy treatment in-person and (virtual) online. We stand ready to assist clients that present with discomfort due to life’s challenges including relationship problems, loneliness, relocation, job stress, grief, discrimination, etc. We also treat clinical disorders that have symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, postpartum, anger, personality disorders, and ADHD to name a few.
Evolve Counseling is a Chicago-based group practice of professional counselors providing psychotherapy treatment in-person and (virtual) online. We stand ready to assist clients that present with discomfort due to life’s challenges including relationship problems, loneliness, relocation, job stress, grief, discrimination, etc. We also treat clinical disorders that have symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, postpartum, anger, personality disorders, and ADHD to name a few.
(872) 276-8688 View (872) 276-8688
Photo of Ann M Bergart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Ann M Bergart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
(847) 416-0616 View (847) 416-0616
Photo of Katie Infusino, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Katie Infusino
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I enjoy working with acult individuals looking to connect more positively with themself and the world around them. Folks may be experiencing anxiety, depression, challenges with body image, life transitions or the effects of trauma that can make their day to day challenging. Together we can explore your path forward and learn how to navigate to a place of positive connection.
I enjoy working with acult individuals looking to connect more positively with themself and the world around them. Folks may be experiencing anxiety, depression, challenges with body image, life transitions or the effects of trauma that can make their day to day challenging. Together we can explore your path forward and learn how to navigate to a place of positive connection.
(872) 233-4925 x500 View (872) 233-4925 x500
Photo of Jean Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jean Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I can help you find solutions and heal to become your best self! During counseling sessions, I create a safe and accepting space for you to be heard and feel validated. I guide you through the process of identifying your goals for treatment and creating a plan that meets your unique needs. I have over 15 years of experience providing counseling services and have worked well with clients from diverse backgrounds.
I can help you find solutions and heal to become your best self! During counseling sessions, I create a safe and accepting space for you to be heard and feel validated. I guide you through the process of identifying your goals for treatment and creating a plan that meets your unique needs. I have over 15 years of experience providing counseling services and have worked well with clients from diverse backgrounds.
(708) 775-3498 View (708) 775-3498
Photo of Anna Deibel, Counselor, LCPC
Anna Deibel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Feeling helpless in certain aspects of your life? Do you want more out of life? Take back control and learn ways to enjoy your best life.
Feeling helpless in certain aspects of your life? Do you want more out of life? Take back control and learn ways to enjoy your best life.
(224) 353-4073 View (224) 353-4073
Photo of Bari Rothfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Bari Rothfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Life can often feel overwhelming and unmanageable at times. And when it does, you do not need to navigate it alone. I’m here to assist you in moving away from maladaptive patterns of behavior that seem to interfere with your quality of life and develop new patterns of behavior that feel more meaningful and aligned with your values. Together, we can increase awareness, uncover strengths, and empower resilience. I specialize in the treatment of adults who struggle with eating disorders & disordered eating (binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating, orthorexia), anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, and relationship issues.
Life can often feel overwhelming and unmanageable at times. And when it does, you do not need to navigate it alone. I’m here to assist you in moving away from maladaptive patterns of behavior that seem to interfere with your quality of life and develop new patterns of behavior that feel more meaningful and aligned with your values. Together, we can increase awareness, uncover strengths, and empower resilience. I specialize in the treatment of adults who struggle with eating disorders & disordered eating (binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating, orthorexia), anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, and relationship issues.
(872) 233-4592 View (872) 233-4592
Photo of Scott Ambers, Psychologist, PhD
Scott Ambers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience. I earned my PhD from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine (Division of Psychology) and have worked in various clinical settings at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. The past 20 years I have devoted myself exclusively to my private practice. The primary difficulties I treat involve anxiety, stress, depression, and conflict in relationships. I work collaboratively with patients in identifying problem areas and therapy goals. Depending on an individual's unique circumstances, therapy might be as brief as a few sessions or as lengthy as many years.
I am a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience. I earned my PhD from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine (Division of Psychology) and have worked in various clinical settings at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. The past 20 years I have devoted myself exclusively to my private practice. The primary difficulties I treat involve anxiety, stress, depression, and conflict in relationships. I work collaboratively with patients in identifying problem areas and therapy goals. Depending on an individual's unique circumstances, therapy might be as brief as a few sessions or as lengthy as many years.
(773) 844-3871 View (773) 844-3871
Photo of Sarah Scheidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Scheidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with life’s challenges. I devote my work to assisting individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, grief, and relationship concerns. My approaches are typically client-centered, mindfulness based, and CBT. I strive to be direct and intentional in my efforts to help my clients help themselves the best they can. We do this together in a collaborative way to set goals based on your presenting concern and desires for improvement.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with life’s challenges. I devote my work to assisting individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, grief, and relationship concerns. My approaches are typically client-centered, mindfulness based, and CBT. I strive to be direct and intentional in my efforts to help my clients help themselves the best they can. We do this together in a collaborative way to set goals based on your presenting concern and desires for improvement.
(708) 367-3525 View (708) 367-3525
Photo of Ryan Cargie, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Ryan Cargie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I believe that our pasts shape how we experience the present, and I’m here to help you make sense of it all. I know that life can be overwhelming at times, and understand your feelings can feel like a challenge. I work with you to uncover the roots of emotional struggles, often connected to early relationships, and help you express what might have been hard to put into words. My approach is warm, empathetic, and grounded in the belief that healing comes from understanding yourself and your relationships. Together, we’ll work to create lasting change, helping you feel more connected, confident, and at peace.
I believe that our pasts shape how we experience the present, and I’m here to help you make sense of it all. I know that life can be overwhelming at times, and understand your feelings can feel like a challenge. I work with you to uncover the roots of emotional struggles, often connected to early relationships, and help you express what might have been hard to put into words. My approach is warm, empathetic, and grounded in the belief that healing comes from understanding yourself and your relationships. Together, we’ll work to create lasting change, helping you feel more connected, confident, and at peace.
(872) 246-7575 View (872) 246-7575
Photo of Sarah Stieglitz, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Sarah Stieglitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have clinical experience developing coping skills for ADHD, processing childhood trauma, and discovering how to live with chronic illness. Whether it’s mental health maintenance or processing a deep wound, I desire to provide a comfortable environment where people from all backgrounds can meet their emotions without judgment or fear. I see the client-therapist relationship as an alliance. Together we will discuss your story, understand your needs, and experience feelings past and present as a journey towards healing. My hope is for you to leave the session feeling seen and empowered.
I have clinical experience developing coping skills for ADHD, processing childhood trauma, and discovering how to live with chronic illness. Whether it’s mental health maintenance or processing a deep wound, I desire to provide a comfortable environment where people from all backgrounds can meet their emotions without judgment or fear. I see the client-therapist relationship as an alliance. Together we will discuss your story, understand your needs, and experience feelings past and present as a journey towards healing. My hope is for you to leave the session feeling seen and empowered.
(630) 749-9334 View (630) 749-9334
Photo of Holly Holliday, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Holly Holliday
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, my name is Holly. Have you ever felt like you are stuck in a rut and don't know how to move forward? Have you ever felt like you need someone to talk to, but don't want to share with your friends and family? My personal belief is that all people can benefit from therapy.
Hi there, my name is Holly. Have you ever felt like you are stuck in a rut and don't know how to move forward? Have you ever felt like you need someone to talk to, but don't want to share with your friends and family? My personal belief is that all people can benefit from therapy.
(224) 298-0996 View (224) 298-0996
Photo of Edward Pagella, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Edward Pagella
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Edward. I have my Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am a Client-Centered Therapist who also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help resolve all the issues of my clients. I have over 30 years of experience in providing counseling services to a variety of individuals who have issues such as anxiety, marital, behavioral disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, and depression. I also work with the LGBTQ community to help individuals grow into their true self and athletes looking for focus and motivation.
Hi, my name is Edward. I have my Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am a Client-Centered Therapist who also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help resolve all the issues of my clients. I have over 30 years of experience in providing counseling services to a variety of individuals who have issues such as anxiety, marital, behavioral disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, and depression. I also work with the LGBTQ community to help individuals grow into their true self and athletes looking for focus and motivation.
(470) 280-0355 View (470) 280-0355
Photo of Carmen Franco, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Carmen Franco
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Sometimes we encounter challenges that exceed our limits and could lead us to experience distress. I consider myself a generalist and enjoy working with a variety of different concerns. I’m particularly passionate about working with folks who need support with ADHD, OCD, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs - skin picking, hair pulling, nail biting), and sleep issues. I'm also particularly drawn to communication and relational issues and well-versed in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. I want to walk with you through these challenges and support you in your healing process.
Sometimes we encounter challenges that exceed our limits and could lead us to experience distress. I consider myself a generalist and enjoy working with a variety of different concerns. I’m particularly passionate about working with folks who need support with ADHD, OCD, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs - skin picking, hair pulling, nail biting), and sleep issues. I'm also particularly drawn to communication and relational issues and well-versed in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. I want to walk with you through these challenges and support you in your healing process.
(872) 259-4773 View (872) 259-4773
Photo of Alyssa Fatigato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Alyssa, MA, LCSW
Alyssa Fatigato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Alyssa, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I work primarily with clients who have experienced trauma and PTSD that has resulted in attachment wounds and self-rescue skills that are no longer serving them. I am passionate about supporting clients in building self-trust. I see therapy as an uncovering and strengthening of your authentic self rather than a top-down analysis. I am specifically trained in EMDR for the treatment of PTSD. I combine EMDR with Internal Family Systems to practice curiosity toward young parts of self, as well as to identify core beliefs that impact mood and behavior.
I work primarily with clients who have experienced trauma and PTSD that has resulted in attachment wounds and self-rescue skills that are no longer serving them. I am passionate about supporting clients in building self-trust. I see therapy as an uncovering and strengthening of your authentic self rather than a top-down analysis. I am specifically trained in EMDR for the treatment of PTSD. I combine EMDR with Internal Family Systems to practice curiosity toward young parts of self, as well as to identify core beliefs that impact mood and behavior.
(312) 847-2881 View (312) 847-2881
Photo of Susan Dames, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Susan Dames
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Susan uses a therapeutic and eclectic approach, seeking to help individuals overcome personal challenges. Susan provides a safe and non-judgmental space for growth and change. Susan believes in the ability of individuals to make changes in their life, through exploration and relationship. Susan attended Loyola University of Chicago and continues to live in Chicago. Susan utilizes a variety of clinical approaches in her practice. Among these are Family Systems. Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused. The approach is designed to fit the individual's needs.
Susan uses a therapeutic and eclectic approach, seeking to help individuals overcome personal challenges. Susan provides a safe and non-judgmental space for growth and change. Susan believes in the ability of individuals to make changes in their life, through exploration and relationship. Susan attended Loyola University of Chicago and continues to live in Chicago. Susan utilizes a variety of clinical approaches in her practice. Among these are Family Systems. Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused. The approach is designed to fit the individual's needs.
(872) 327-6400 View (872) 327-6400
Photo of Hanan Abdelwahab, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Hanan Abdelwahab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60641
Hanan Abdelwahab is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, with a wealth of experience since she began practicing in 2017. She earned her graduate degree from Loyola University in Chicago, where she laid the foundation for her dedicated career in social work. Throughout her time at Loyola and in the years that followed, Hanan worked in various hospital settings, offering invaluable support to patients in both English and Arabic. She has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, gaining insight into different cultures & has demographics, & providing essential resources during times of crises
Hanan Abdelwahab is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, with a wealth of experience since she began practicing in 2017. She earned her graduate degree from Loyola University in Chicago, where she laid the foundation for her dedicated career in social work. Throughout her time at Loyola and in the years that followed, Hanan worked in various hospital settings, offering invaluable support to patients in both English and Arabic. She has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, gaining insight into different cultures & has demographics, & providing essential resources during times of crises
(872) 246-7703 View (872) 246-7703
Photo of Richard Dickinson, Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD
Richard Dickinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a proud member of the counseling profession, I am passionate about my mission to help others gain the insight and clarity they seek to overcome the inevitable challenges that life offers. I have been fortunate to have the privilege of providing supports and services to a wide range of individuals which includes children, adolescents, adults and families. I enjoy providing a range of therapeutic services including individual, group, and family therapy. My professional experiences have afforded me the opportunity to work in conjunction with social service agencies and both public and private academic institutions within Chicago.
As a proud member of the counseling profession, I am passionate about my mission to help others gain the insight and clarity they seek to overcome the inevitable challenges that life offers. I have been fortunate to have the privilege of providing supports and services to a wide range of individuals which includes children, adolescents, adults and families. I enjoy providing a range of therapeutic services including individual, group, and family therapy. My professional experiences have afforded me the opportunity to work in conjunction with social service agencies and both public and private academic institutions within Chicago.
(312) 997-5096 View (312) 997-5096
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL

3,000+

Average cost per session

$155

Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Aetna
51% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
19% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chicago?

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.