Therapists in Spokane, WA

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Photo of Cheryl Kay Wright, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Cheryl Kay Wright
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, NCC, CGIP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99223  (Online Only)
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
Cheryl Wright M.ED, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, MAC, I have been a therapist over 12 years working with individuals who are struggling with life. It may be mental health, addiction, grief or relationship issues. My goal is to help you begin a healing journey to a more balanced self. I believe we need someone to talk to who will listen, not judge and accept us where we are. I want you to have peace, hope and make the changes you desire. I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy. I believe everyone deserves the very best and I tailor my approach to meet your needs.
(509) 956-4891 View (509) 956-4891
Photo of Amy C Corman, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Amy C Corman
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing a major change or stressor in your life? Are you having trouble making decisions or formulating a plan? Life has a way of confusing even the most well-laid plans. It can help to have someone there to listen, to accept and to help make sense out of the confusion. I want to help you clarify your goals and values so that you can overcome life's obstacles.
Are you experiencing a major change or stressor in your life? Are you having trouble making decisions or formulating a plan? Life has a way of confusing even the most well-laid plans. It can help to have someone there to listen, to accept and to help make sense out of the confusion. I want to help you clarify your goals and values so that you can overcome life's obstacles.
(509) 571-2740 View (509) 571-2740
Photo of John Stifter, Counselor in Spokane, WA
John Stifter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
I am not your conventional psychotherapist. My journey into the world of mental health is uniquely shaped by my background as a ski journalist and lived experiences of grief, loss, tragedy, and trauma. Driven by a desire to bridge my passion for storytelling with holistic healing, I use my sincere interest in the human experience in the therapy setting to treat adults, couples, and families living with shame, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, addiction, and life transitions and questions. As the Sufi poet Rumi once wrote, “The cure for pain is in the pain.”
I am not your conventional psychotherapist. My journey into the world of mental health is uniquely shaped by my background as a ski journalist and lived experiences of grief, loss, tragedy, and trauma. Driven by a desire to bridge my passion for storytelling with holistic healing, I use my sincere interest in the human experience in the therapy setting to treat adults, couples, and families living with shame, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, addiction, and life transitions and questions. As the Sufi poet Rumi once wrote, “The cure for pain is in the pain.”
(509) 761-6396 View (509) 761-6396
Photo of Patricia A Carlisle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
Patricia A Carlisle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Patrici, Carlisl, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
I offer an integrative approach to therapy bringing tools and techniques from various modalities, including CBT, solutions-focused, acceptance, and commitment therapy. I encourage self-reflection, homework, and openness to experimenting with different perspectives. You are the drive of your success. I specialize in the most common mental health problems I treat, but not limited to Mood, Anxiety, Depression, and Family and Group therapy. I strive to implement psychotherapeutic methods during each appointment. My approach is informal. This includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavior therapy, and mindfulness.
I offer an integrative approach to therapy bringing tools and techniques from various modalities, including CBT, solutions-focused, acceptance, and commitment therapy. I encourage self-reflection, homework, and openness to experimenting with different perspectives. You are the drive of your success. I specialize in the most common mental health problems I treat, but not limited to Mood, Anxiety, Depression, and Family and Group therapy. I strive to implement psychotherapeutic methods during each appointment. My approach is informal. This includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavior therapy, and mindfulness.
(509) 402-2128 View (509) 402-2128
Photo of Dr. Amanda Kern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
Dr. Amanda Kern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW, ICACDC, CDP, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99207
You never imagined yourself in this position, and it is difficult to know where to turn and who can help. Trauma, addiction, divorce, blended family, and relationship dynamics impact everyone differently. You may be experiencing feeling overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted, questioning yourself, and losing direction. Together, we’ll focus on your overall well-being, not just the problems you bring to the table. Your experience and needs are unique, and your treatment should be individualized just for you.
You never imagined yourself in this position, and it is difficult to know where to turn and who can help. Trauma, addiction, divorce, blended family, and relationship dynamics impact everyone differently. You may be experiencing feeling overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted, questioning yourself, and losing direction. Together, we’ll focus on your overall well-being, not just the problems you bring to the table. Your experience and needs are unique, and your treatment should be individualized just for you.
(509) 240-8708 View (509) 240-8708
Photo of Deanette Christopherson, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Deanette Christopherson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205
Life can become so overwhelming at times.During these times sometimes we need assistance in navigating. I work with children, adolescents, families, individuals and couples. When we are facing life struggles I believe in having a safe environment for you to share your concerns. We can create a plan together to assist you with feeling more in control of your life. Using a person centered approach that is focused on your individual needs.
Life can become so overwhelming at times.During these times sometimes we need assistance in navigating. I work with children, adolescents, families, individuals and couples. When we are facing life struggles I believe in having a safe environment for you to share your concerns. We can create a plan together to assist you with feeling more in control of your life. Using a person centered approach that is focused on your individual needs.
(509) 309-0540 View (509) 309-0540
Photo of Nathan Ainley, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Nathan Ainley
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99208
Reaching out for help when you're struggling is one of the bravest things you can do, and the first step in finding true healing. Life is full of surprises which can sometimes seem impossible to overcome. However, with proper guidance and some hard work, the road ahead can look much brighter. I offer a nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe and comfortable sharing your story. I would be honored to partner with you to help you reach your goals through an individualized treatment plan and growth process. My goals are always to help you believe in yourself and move toward becoming the best version of yourself.
Reaching out for help when you're struggling is one of the bravest things you can do, and the first step in finding true healing. Life is full of surprises which can sometimes seem impossible to overcome. However, with proper guidance and some hard work, the road ahead can look much brighter. I offer a nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe and comfortable sharing your story. I would be honored to partner with you to help you reach your goals through an individualized treatment plan and growth process. My goals are always to help you believe in yourself and move toward becoming the best version of yourself.
(509) 316-2638 View (509) 316-2638
Photo of Julie A Kathrens, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Julie A Kathrens
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Welcome to Kathrens Counseling Services... I'm Julie! As a clinician I like to take a relaxed, person-centered approach. It is not my goal to rush clients into progress, but to help them find strategies to create lasting and positive change in their lives. I've found that psychoeducation is foundational to clients making progress in counseling because the more a person understands their own experiences, the better they can address their concerns. As we move forward, I will work with you to identify your strengths and values to create customized self-care and strategies so you can achieve your wellness goals! (Ages 13 and up.)
Welcome to Kathrens Counseling Services... I'm Julie! As a clinician I like to take a relaxed, person-centered approach. It is not my goal to rush clients into progress, but to help them find strategies to create lasting and positive change in their lives. I've found that psychoeducation is foundational to clients making progress in counseling because the more a person understands their own experiences, the better they can address their concerns. As we move forward, I will work with you to identify your strengths and values to create customized self-care and strategies so you can achieve your wellness goals! (Ages 13 and up.)
(509) 712-3163 View (509) 712-3163
Photo of Melissa Sincere Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Melissa Sincere Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Melissa Sincere, I completed my Master's in Counseling in 2020. In my approach to counseling; I integrate strength-base, humanistic, and solution-focus practices. I offer unwavering culturally sensitive support and understanding.
Hello! I'm Melissa Sincere, I completed my Master's in Counseling in 2020. In my approach to counseling; I integrate strength-base, humanistic, and solution-focus practices. I offer unwavering culturally sensitive support and understanding.
(509) 401-8091 View (509) 401-8091
Photo of Dawn Saari, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Dawn Saari
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
**My practice offers telehealth delivery of service for clients (both phone/video sessions). Many insurances cover these.** I have over 20 years of experience helping people with their broken pieces, obstacles or stuck places in life. When your life changes and you don't know how to face that change, I can help. When you want to create a change but feel lost in how to create it, I can help with that too. Relationship obstacles, scary new beginnings, healing old wounds, dealing with stress, anxiety, and sadness- all of these are things I can help you navigate and heal.
**My practice offers telehealth delivery of service for clients (both phone/video sessions). Many insurances cover these.** I have over 20 years of experience helping people with their broken pieces, obstacles or stuck places in life. When your life changes and you don't know how to face that change, I can help. When you want to create a change but feel lost in how to create it, I can help with that too. Relationship obstacles, scary new beginnings, healing old wounds, dealing with stress, anxiety, and sadness- all of these are things I can help you navigate and heal.
(509) 565-2023 View (509) 565-2023
Photo of Jeffrey Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane, WA
Jeffrey Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I work on helping everyone find their unique path towards success and growth. In this work I have learned that there is no "one right way" to do things and everyone has a unique and personal journey towards finding the peace, success and growth they want in themselves, their lives and relationships. My goal is to help everyone I work with find this path and walk with them as they journey through the many challenges of their lives.
I work on helping everyone find their unique path towards success and growth. In this work I have learned that there is no "one right way" to do things and everyone has a unique and personal journey towards finding the peace, success and growth they want in themselves, their lives and relationships. My goal is to help everyone I work with find this path and walk with them as they journey through the many challenges of their lives.
(509) 431-6309 View (509) 431-6309
Photo of LeKeshia Mathis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
LeKeshia Mathis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
My professional background involves working with couples who have the desire to rebuild their relationships and adults with various struggles, such as substance abuse addictions and co-occurring disorders. Collaboration is a major foundation for my practice, being therapy is a collaborative work that considers life experiences, patterns, relationships, and beliefs that have created and still have an impact on individuals' way of being in the world. I'm committed to figuring out the issues that are bringing my clients to therapy right now and the innate abilities and assets that will enable them to make the desired adjustments.
My professional background involves working with couples who have the desire to rebuild their relationships and adults with various struggles, such as substance abuse addictions and co-occurring disorders. Collaboration is a major foundation for my practice, being therapy is a collaborative work that considers life experiences, patterns, relationships, and beliefs that have created and still have an impact on individuals' way of being in the world. I'm committed to figuring out the issues that are bringing my clients to therapy right now and the innate abilities and assets that will enable them to make the desired adjustments.
(509) 637-7520 View (509) 637-7520
Photo of Gerry Presar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spokane, WA
Gerry Presar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99208
With so many choices, how do you choose the right therapist for you? You need someone with not only the professional skills to help you, but a style that fits who you are. I bring both my strengths as a therapist as well as a lifetime of personal and professional experience in different realms. I leverage my real-world background together with my marriage and family therapy expertise to help you understand and address your real-world issues in a practical way that focuses on results.
With so many choices, how do you choose the right therapist for you? You need someone with not only the professional skills to help you, but a style that fits who you are. I bring both my strengths as a therapist as well as a lifetime of personal and professional experience in different realms. I leverage my real-world background together with my marriage and family therapy expertise to help you understand and address your real-world issues in a practical way that focuses on results.
(425) 610-8887 View (425) 610-8887
Photo of Rachelle Ventura in Spokane, WA
Rachelle Ventura
MS, LMHC, PgDip, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204  (Online Only)
Is anxiety a constant struggle? Do negative thoughts and worries keep you from exploring new possibilities? Or do you work in a demanding environment, and battle self-doubt, self-criticism, and the feeling that you are not enough? Perhaps you facing illness, injury, or a transition. Dealing with stress is natural; being perpetually “stressed out” and overwhelmed is not. Anxiety needn't rob you of your confidence and enthusiasm for the things that matter to you. You can develop new strategies for working with anxiety so you can manage challenges, achieve performance excellence, or just engage with your life more fully.
Is anxiety a constant struggle? Do negative thoughts and worries keep you from exploring new possibilities? Or do you work in a demanding environment, and battle self-doubt, self-criticism, and the feeling that you are not enough? Perhaps you facing illness, injury, or a transition. Dealing with stress is natural; being perpetually “stressed out” and overwhelmed is not. Anxiety needn't rob you of your confidence and enthusiasm for the things that matter to you. You can develop new strategies for working with anxiety so you can manage challenges, achieve performance excellence, or just engage with your life more fully.
(509) 359-9749 View (509) 359-9749
Photo of Melissa Alvarez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
Melissa Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
I love working with children and young adults up to age 40. I am most experienced in working with depression and anxiety and play therapy. I offer CBT as a modality to cope with these issues. My ideal client wants support, to be heard, and to know that they can triumph over their negative thought processes.
I love working with children and young adults up to age 40. I am most experienced in working with depression and anxiety and play therapy. I offer CBT as a modality to cope with these issues. My ideal client wants support, to be heard, and to know that they can triumph over their negative thought processes.
(509) 285-9021 View (509) 285-9021
Photo of Dr. Bethy Campbell, Psychologist in Spokane, WA
Dr. Bethy Campbell
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMFT, CCC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99202
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Find unwavering support at Life Directions Counseling. Guided by Dr. Bethy, our interns, Emily and Kassie, offer personalized individual and couples therapy. Whether it's personal struggles or relationship issues, we provide a safe haven for self-exploration and growth. In couples therapy, we specialize in fostering communication, trust, and intimacy, guiding you to rebuild and strengthen your connection. Life's setbacks are opportunities for renewal, and we firmly believe in that journey. Join us as we embark on the pursuit of a positive and balanced life together.
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Find unwavering support at Life Directions Counseling. Guided by Dr. Bethy, our interns, Emily and Kassie, offer personalized individual and couples therapy. Whether it's personal struggles or relationship issues, we provide a safe haven for self-exploration and growth. In couples therapy, we specialize in fostering communication, trust, and intimacy, guiding you to rebuild and strengthen your connection. Life's setbacks are opportunities for renewal, and we firmly believe in that journey. Join us as we embark on the pursuit of a positive and balanced life together.
(509) 414-7986 View (509) 414-7986
Photo of Melaka Smith, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Melaka Smith
Counselor, MSW, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
Melaka specialize in working with adolescents, military families, and athletes. Her goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for these unique populations to address their mental health and well-being. She understands the challenges faced through various stages of life. She aims to help develop coping strategies and a sense of self-worth. She also recognizes the specific stressors and sacrifices endured and creates a non-judgmental space to express concerns and strengthen relationships. She understands the pressures of life and focus on the aspects of performance, managing stress, and anxiety while promoting overall wellness.
Melaka specialize in working with adolescents, military families, and athletes. Her goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for these unique populations to address their mental health and well-being. She understands the challenges faced through various stages of life. She aims to help develop coping strategies and a sense of self-worth. She also recognizes the specific stressors and sacrifices endured and creates a non-judgmental space to express concerns and strengthen relationships. She understands the pressures of life and focus on the aspects of performance, managing stress, and anxiety while promoting overall wellness.
(509) 253-1158 View (509) 253-1158
Photo of Alyson Gamache Hervatine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
Alyson Gamache Hervatine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW-A
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
I work with individuals and families from an attachment perspective. I have worked extensively with children ages three and up in individual and family therapy, utilizing play, art and talk therapies to help individuals handle challenging situations at home and/or school, or within their own internal world. I can help children build resilience, self-reliance, and their self-regulatory skills. I work with parents, helping them to better meet their children's needs while fostering a better relationship. I work with adults on the myriad of life transitions they are working through, helping them better cope with their everyday stresses.
I work with individuals and families from an attachment perspective. I have worked extensively with children ages three and up in individual and family therapy, utilizing play, art and talk therapies to help individuals handle challenging situations at home and/or school, or within their own internal world. I can help children build resilience, self-reliance, and their self-regulatory skills. I work with parents, helping them to better meet their children's needs while fostering a better relationship. I work with adults on the myriad of life transitions they are working through, helping them better cope with their everyday stresses.
(509) 779-6216 View (509) 779-6216
Photo of Darci Lynn Sheridan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane, WA
Darci Lynn Sheridan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP, MHP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99208  (Online Only)
At the center is your story. Is your story one of…hardships, trauma, loss, anxiety, fear, depression, sadness, hurt, anger, addiction, abuse, shame, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles > strength, love, joy, survival, faith, gratitude, hope. I’m here to hold space for you exactly where you are NOW, even your deepest pains and wounds. I will come along side of you, to listen+support you in talking about the hard+messy+uncomfortable stuff in your life. I will work to gain an understanding of your experiences, help you uncover more of who you are, and at the center of your core find Healing+Transformation!
At the center is your story. Is your story one of…hardships, trauma, loss, anxiety, fear, depression, sadness, hurt, anger, addiction, abuse, shame, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles > strength, love, joy, survival, faith, gratitude, hope. I’m here to hold space for you exactly where you are NOW, even your deepest pains and wounds. I will come along side of you, to listen+support you in talking about the hard+messy+uncomfortable stuff in your life. I will work to gain an understanding of your experiences, help you uncover more of who you are, and at the center of your core find Healing+Transformation!
(509) 956-4698 View (509) 956-4698
Photo of Dzevad Hujdurovic, Counselor in Spokane, WA
Dzevad Hujdurovic
Counselor, MS, LHMC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99202  (Online Only)
I see individuals for all types of issues; anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, relationship issues, identity issues, life transitions, and more. All of these are important reasons to seek out counseling. Whether you don't know where to start, or you have a specific issue you want to work on, that's okay; we'll figure it out together. So much of therapy is about the relationship between client and therapist, which is used as a guid to process challenging dynamics.
I see individuals for all types of issues; anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, relationship issues, identity issues, life transitions, and more. All of these are important reasons to seek out counseling. Whether you don't know where to start, or you have a specific issue you want to work on, that's okay; we'll figure it out together. So much of therapy is about the relationship between client and therapist, which is used as a guid to process challenging dynamics.
(509) 348-2766 View (509) 348-2766

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Spokane, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Spokane, WA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Relationship Issues
73% Stress
71% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Premera
72% Aetna
58% Regence

How Therapists in Spokane, WA see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Spokane?

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.