Therapists in Uptown, Chicago, IL

Photo of Monisha Berkowski, Psychologist, PhD, CST
Monisha Berkowski
Psychologist, PhD, CST
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Does it feel like you or your relationship are stuck in a cycle that isn't working for you? By recognizing and repairing these patterns, we can cultivate lasting change in our relationship to ourselves and others. Most of my clients want to improve their relationships, sex lives, explore their identities, and move into ways of being that work better for them. I specialize in sex and relationship therapy, enhancing intimacy and desire, improving mismatched libido, out of control sexual behavior, and working through pain or dysfunction, particularly within the queer community.
Does it feel like you or your relationship are stuck in a cycle that isn't working for you? By recognizing and repairing these patterns, we can cultivate lasting change in our relationship to ourselves and others. Most of my clients want to improve their relationships, sex lives, explore their identities, and move into ways of being that work better for them. I specialize in sex and relationship therapy, enhancing intimacy and desire, improving mismatched libido, out of control sexual behavior, and working through pain or dysfunction, particularly within the queer community.
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Photo of Karla A Rennhofer, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, BCETS, PSYPACT
Karla A Rennhofer
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, BCETS, PSYPACT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello, and welcome to my page! I work with people who have a wide variety of conditions stemming from relational and environmental stress. I believe that we are naturally programmed to heal, but often we rely on past coping skills that are no longer functional, and this blocks the path to healing. I think every symptom once served a purpose and that change can occur by looking at how and why these symptoms developed, while at the same time trying new behaviors.
Hello, and welcome to my page! I work with people who have a wide variety of conditions stemming from relational and environmental stress. I believe that we are naturally programmed to heal, but often we rely on past coping skills that are no longer functional, and this blocks the path to healing. I think every symptom once served a purpose and that change can occur by looking at how and why these symptoms developed, while at the same time trying new behaviors.
(847) 796-8438 View (847) 796-8438
Photo of Essie Shachar-Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Essie Shachar-Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
People often come to therapy to try to understand something: something about themselves, their relationships, or their past experiences. I enjoy joining my clients in these moments of exploration with warmth, attunement, and collaboration. I support clients in navigating oppressive systems and experiences in their everyday lives, as well as in their personal and ancestral pasts. I’m interested in making space for all parts of you, including the parts that may feel “bad,” shameful, or wrong. I work with individuals ages 14 and older.
People often come to therapy to try to understand something: something about themselves, their relationships, or their past experiences. I enjoy joining my clients in these moments of exploration with warmth, attunement, and collaboration. I support clients in navigating oppressive systems and experiences in their everyday lives, as well as in their personal and ancestral pasts. I’m interested in making space for all parts of you, including the parts that may feel “bad,” shameful, or wrong. I work with individuals ages 14 and older.
(872) 266-2513 View (872) 266-2513
Photo of Josh Abrahams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Josh Abrahams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
4 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
In my therapy practice, I work with individuals of all ages, including young children, and with families and couples. At our first meeting, you can expect me to listen closely as you tell me about yourself and what brings you to therapy. You might be suffering greatly and be seeking urgently to relieve distress and find hope that things can improve. Or you might feel fine in many ways but want to strengthen your relationships with others, increase understanding of yourself and your behavior, or begin to make better use of your talents and build your creative potential.
In my therapy practice, I work with individuals of all ages, including young children, and with families and couples. At our first meeting, you can expect me to listen closely as you tell me about yourself and what brings you to therapy. You might be suffering greatly and be seeking urgently to relieve distress and find hope that things can improve. Or you might feel fine in many ways but want to strengthen your relationships with others, increase understanding of yourself and your behavior, or begin to make better use of your talents and build your creative potential.
(773) 492-6998 View (773) 492-6998
Photo of Aaron Katcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Aaron Katcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Whatever has brought you to seek help at this time, you are taking a courageous step forward. In our initial meetings, I will hold an open space for you to begin to tell your unique story of your self, relationships, family, culture, strengths and struggles. You can expect me to listen deeply to begin to learn about you and your reasons for seeking therapy. We all have some aspects about ourselves that we don’t fully understand or may not have words for yet. Psychotherapy can create a place where you can discover some of these unspoken thoughts and feelings, and in turn, powerful transformation can occur.
Whatever has brought you to seek help at this time, you are taking a courageous step forward. In our initial meetings, I will hold an open space for you to begin to tell your unique story of your self, relationships, family, culture, strengths and struggles. You can expect me to listen deeply to begin to learn about you and your reasons for seeking therapy. We all have some aspects about ourselves that we don’t fully understand or may not have words for yet. Psychotherapy can create a place where you can discover some of these unspoken thoughts and feelings, and in turn, powerful transformation can occur.
(773) 322-1936 View (773) 322-1936
Photo of Emily Zoller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Emily Zoller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
I believe it takes courage to know yourself deeply. I want to create a space where you can begin to know yourself better, uncover connections between past and present, and build out a life that makes you proud. I want to honor the strength and knowledge you already hold, and create a partnership where we can talk about what feels most tender, scary, and exciting. I believe that understanding your past can help illuminate struggles in your present, and can offer a road map towards change. We can work together to explore ways in which you can feel safer in your body and more confident in your ability to handle life’s challenges.
I believe it takes courage to know yourself deeply. I want to create a space where you can begin to know yourself better, uncover connections between past and present, and build out a life that makes you proud. I want to honor the strength and knowledge you already hold, and create a partnership where we can talk about what feels most tender, scary, and exciting. I believe that understanding your past can help illuminate struggles in your present, and can offer a road map towards change. We can work together to explore ways in which you can feel safer in your body and more confident in your ability to handle life’s challenges.
(773) 455-1777 View (773) 455-1777
Photo of Tony Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MPH, LSW
Tony Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MPH, LSW
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
(312) 868-6137 View (312) 868-6137
Photo of Rachel Pallmeyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Rachel Pallmeyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60613
As the expert of your own experience, you deserve to be listened to and understood. I intend to hold space for all aspects of your unique identity. In therapy, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and motivations, and how you can navigate the world authentically, while centering your inherent capacity and resilience. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, including those related to school, work, and relationships, as well as those seeking to initiate change.
As the expert of your own experience, you deserve to be listened to and understood. I intend to hold space for all aspects of your unique identity. In therapy, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and motivations, and how you can navigate the world authentically, while centering your inherent capacity and resilience. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, including those related to school, work, and relationships, as well as those seeking to initiate change.
(872) 246-8182 View (872) 246-8182
Photo of Melissa Queen O'Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Melissa Queen O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Online Only
As a therapist, my number one goal is to approach you with acceptance, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I enter every therapeutic relationship with a genuine curiosity to understand the lives, struggles, and strengths of my clients. I believe in starting wherever you are comfortable. My office is a safe place to make sense of what is going on in your life. Together we will clarify your goals, identify obstacles, and find ways to overcome them. My approach relies on encouraging honesty, trust, acceptance, and safety. I believe everyone is capable of change.
As a therapist, my number one goal is to approach you with acceptance, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I enter every therapeutic relationship with a genuine curiosity to understand the lives, struggles, and strengths of my clients. I believe in starting wherever you are comfortable. My office is a safe place to make sense of what is going on in your life. Together we will clarify your goals, identify obstacles, and find ways to overcome them. My approach relies on encouraging honesty, trust, acceptance, and safety. I believe everyone is capable of change.
(773) 797-9539 View (773) 797-9539
Photo of Jancey Wickstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jancey Wickstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
My expertise and passion is building therapeutic relationships that combine evidence-based practice tools within a relational framework. This allows a collaborative groundwork to address many issues people bring to therapy. Many of the things we struggle with in life are a result of disconnect from emotion- it's made sense to avoid emotion to get through. This could look like depression, anxiety, not showing up in the way you want, unfulfilling relationships, or other types of avoidance. And maybe now that's not working. If you want something different in life, let's figure it out together.
My expertise and passion is building therapeutic relationships that combine evidence-based practice tools within a relational framework. This allows a collaborative groundwork to address many issues people bring to therapy. Many of the things we struggle with in life are a result of disconnect from emotion- it's made sense to avoid emotion to get through. This could look like depression, anxiety, not showing up in the way you want, unfulfilling relationships, or other types of avoidance. And maybe now that's not working. If you want something different in life, let's figure it out together.
(872) 241-2046 View (872) 241-2046
Photo of Jeff Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTRS
Jeff Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTRS
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
We often seek therapy because ways we’ve learned to navigate the world aren’t working the way they used to or the way we’d like them to. Sometimes these strategies cause us pain and sometimes they cause pain to others. Our work involves uncovering strategies we’ve learned to survive in the world and understanding where they come from. Once we understand their origin and function, we can develop awareness of when they arise in the present and make choices to navigate differently.
We often seek therapy because ways we’ve learned to navigate the world aren’t working the way they used to or the way we’d like them to. Sometimes these strategies cause us pain and sometimes they cause pain to others. Our work involves uncovering strategies we’ve learned to survive in the world and understanding where they come from. Once we understand their origin and function, we can develop awareness of when they arise in the present and make choices to navigate differently.
(773) 717-2962 View (773) 717-2962
Photo of Meghan Pfeiffer, Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, MSW, LSW
Meghan Pfeiffer
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, MSW, LSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about working with fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community and celebrating diverse identities and bodies in a truly safe space! I will be using aspects of the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy modality to help navigate feelings of anxiety, depression, and worthlessness and also take a new look at past traumas, in order to connect with yourself again. I believe that therapy is a collaboration between two equals and you know yourself the best. As a white, cisgender woman I absolutely recognize my privilege and will do everything to take into account the structural issues that affect different identities.
I am passionate about working with fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community and celebrating diverse identities and bodies in a truly safe space! I will be using aspects of the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy modality to help navigate feelings of anxiety, depression, and worthlessness and also take a new look at past traumas, in order to connect with yourself again. I believe that therapy is a collaboration between two equals and you know yourself the best. As a white, cisgender woman I absolutely recognize my privilege and will do everything to take into account the structural issues that affect different identities.
(872) 328-7400 View (872) 328-7400
Photo of Dennis Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dennis Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
I’ve always been very highly driven and self-motivated person but I started to realize that while I achieved a lot, I didn’t feel happy. I couldn’t put my finger on it. I kept feeling like an imposter, struggled against my own high standards, while being painfully aware of how different I was from my Midwestern community as a queer Asian American. When I felt lost I would procrastinate like crazy. The American Dream I had internalized from my immigrant parents felt so far out of reach.
I’ve always been very highly driven and self-motivated person but I started to realize that while I achieved a lot, I didn’t feel happy. I couldn’t put my finger on it. I kept feeling like an imposter, struggled against my own high standards, while being painfully aware of how different I was from my Midwestern community as a queer Asian American. When I felt lost I would procrastinate like crazy. The American Dream I had internalized from my immigrant parents felt so far out of reach.
(312) 736-7719 View (312) 736-7719
Photo of Dr. Caleb Chadwick, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Caleb Chadwick
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
I’m Dr. Caleb Chadwick, and I specialize in serving the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly in working through depression, anxiety, grief, self esteem, and trauma, especially relational and religious trauma. My style is insight oriented and relationally focused, with integration of skill building customized to your needs. I am very active in our sessions, asking challenging questions with warmth, humor, and nonjudgmental curiosity to help us both really “get it.” This helps us take on tough issues at their core, leading to the kind of change that runs deep.
I’m Dr. Caleb Chadwick, and I specialize in serving the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly in working through depression, anxiety, grief, self esteem, and trauma, especially relational and religious trauma. My style is insight oriented and relationally focused, with integration of skill building customized to your needs. I am very active in our sessions, asking challenging questions with warmth, humor, and nonjudgmental curiosity to help us both really “get it.” This helps us take on tough issues at their core, leading to the kind of change that runs deep.
(872) 324-1204 View (872) 324-1204
Photo of Bridget Dietz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bridget Dietz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Accepting new clients! Working from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming lens, I want to ensure a safe space where all of my clients feel seen, heard, safe, and respected. As humans, we all want connection, although sometimes these connections cause intense emotions and great amounts of pain. I recognize the stress of single parenting, the communication issues in romantic relationships and/or families, and the struggles of dating in a world of right and left swiping.
Accepting new clients! Working from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming lens, I want to ensure a safe space where all of my clients feel seen, heard, safe, and respected. As humans, we all want connection, although sometimes these connections cause intense emotions and great amounts of pain. I recognize the stress of single parenting, the communication issues in romantic relationships and/or families, and the struggles of dating in a world of right and left swiping.
(773) 729-1681 View (773) 729-1681
Photo of Heidi Schmelter, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Heidi Schmelter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Online Only
Hello! I hope your search is going well. I know how overwhelming it can be to sift through different profiles when it involves something so deeply personal. It is important you find what you are looking for. Psychotherapy can look different for everybody. I am trauma informed, and I practice individual psychotherapy with adults ages 18 and up, who are experiencing anxiety and depression, complex trauma, grief and loss, and loneliness and life transitions. My approach is engaging and warm, and I enjoy using humor, and integrating creativity whenever possible.
Hello! I hope your search is going well. I know how overwhelming it can be to sift through different profiles when it involves something so deeply personal. It is important you find what you are looking for. Psychotherapy can look different for everybody. I am trauma informed, and I practice individual psychotherapy with adults ages 18 and up, who are experiencing anxiety and depression, complex trauma, grief and loss, and loneliness and life transitions. My approach is engaging and warm, and I enjoy using humor, and integrating creativity whenever possible.
(872) 529-3137 View (872) 529-3137
Photo of Jade Hull, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Jade Hull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your own lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your way. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond just symptoms, and examine attachment and relationships.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your own lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your way. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond just symptoms, and examine attachment and relationships.
(773) 207-2098 View (773) 207-2098
Photo of Alexis Jenkins, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Alexis Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
I would be happy to explore life's journey with you, discovering ways to create comfort and stillness, overcome challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. While I enjoy working with an array of presenting concerns, my specialties are anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, and relationship issues. I value evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) and motivational interviewing which will guide our collaborative efforts to navigate life's complexities.
I would be happy to explore life's journey with you, discovering ways to create comfort and stillness, overcome challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. While I enjoy working with an array of presenting concerns, my specialties are anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, and relationship issues. I value evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) and motivational interviewing which will guide our collaborative efforts to navigate life's complexities.
(872) 401-6843 View (872) 401-6843
Photo of Joan Paradis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Joan Paradis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My counseling style is relaxed and conversational and I am dedicated to meeting clients where they are on their path. I recognize it takes courage to seek therapy and implement changes and would love to assist you on your journey of discovery. I understand that it may be difficult to open up and talk to someone and I pride myself on being an active, compassionate and nonjudgemental listener.
My counseling style is relaxed and conversational and I am dedicated to meeting clients where they are on their path. I recognize it takes courage to seek therapy and implement changes and would love to assist you on your journey of discovery. I understand that it may be difficult to open up and talk to someone and I pride myself on being an active, compassionate and nonjudgemental listener.
(773) 757-5061 View (773) 757-5061
Photo of Sheri Maynore, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sheri Maynore
Pre-Licensed Professional
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Chicago, IL 60640
As a queer-identified therapist, I am dedicated to guiding you through the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you're seeking support in individual, relationship or group therapy, my goal is to create a warm and accepting space where you can explore and embrace all aspects of yourself. With a deep focus on trauma-informed care and expertise in kink, polyamory, queer and neuroexpansive identities, PTSD, religious trauma and eating disorders, Our work together involves delving into the depths of the unconscious, uncovering hidden truths and shadow aspects, to cultivate a deeper understanding of the self.
As a queer-identified therapist, I am dedicated to guiding you through the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you're seeking support in individual, relationship or group therapy, my goal is to create a warm and accepting space where you can explore and embrace all aspects of yourself. With a deep focus on trauma-informed care and expertise in kink, polyamory, queer and neuroexpansive identities, PTSD, religious trauma and eating disorders, Our work together involves delving into the depths of the unconscious, uncovering hidden truths and shadow aspects, to cultivate a deeper understanding of the self.
(872) 324-1500 View (872) 324-1500

See more therapy options for Uptown, Chicago

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Uptown, Chicago, IL

900+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Uptown, Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
69% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna
54% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Uptown, Chicago, IL see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
25% Male
7% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Uptown, 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.