Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

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Photo of Dr. Angela Shaba, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Angela Shaba
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Finding, developing, and living our best self is an essential piece of life. I believe everyone has the potential to succeed and prosper, no matter their life story or their life challenges. I am Dr. Angela Shaba and I am the owner and founder of Elite Psychology and Wellness Counseling Group. We are a dedicated and passionate team of therapists who are here to help you reach your goals. Our mission is to create a therapeutic setting that is supportive, encourages positivity and cultivates growth. We help you excel in your career, sport and life!
Finding, developing, and living our best self is an essential piece of life. I believe everyone has the potential to succeed and prosper, no matter their life story or their life challenges. I am Dr. Angela Shaba and I am the owner and founder of Elite Psychology and Wellness Counseling Group. We are a dedicated and passionate team of therapists who are here to help you reach your goals. Our mission is to create a therapeutic setting that is supportive, encourages positivity and cultivates growth. We help you excel in your career, sport and life!
(602) 497-3130 View (602) 497-3130
Photo of John Patterson, MSPC, MSP, PCC
John Patterson
MSPC, MSP, PCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
If you're struggling in your career, considering taking life in a different direction, or feel "stuck" in life (or in a rut), I want to talk with you today to see if I can help. Maybe you're dealing with low self-worth or confidence, need help with accountability and motivation, or have trouble with work-life balance. As a career and life coach, I specialize in helping people just like you.
If you're struggling in your career, considering taking life in a different direction, or feel "stuck" in life (or in a rut), I want to talk with you today to see if I can help. Maybe you're dealing with low self-worth or confidence, need help with accountability and motivation, or have trouble with work-life balance. As a career and life coach, I specialize in helping people just like you.
(480) 382-8140 View (480) 382-8140
Arthur Kilduff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
During my thirty plus years experience in New York City, and now in Arizona, I have worked with people dealing with myriad mental health, social, and relationship challenges. These include depression, anxiety, communication issues with their partners, their parents, their friends, their children, their colleagues; feelings of social awkwardness, and difficulty getting on with their lives in what is a meaningful way for them. Among other things.
During my thirty plus years experience in New York City, and now in Arizona, I have worked with people dealing with myriad mental health, social, and relationship challenges. These include depression, anxiety, communication issues with their partners, their parents, their friends, their children, their colleagues; feelings of social awkwardness, and difficulty getting on with their lives in what is a meaningful way for them. Among other things.
(520) 641-8490 View (520) 641-8490
Photo of Marianne Turley, MC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marianne Turley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
"Healing comes when we choose to walk away from darkness and move towards a brighter light." Dieter F. Uchtdorf's words echo the message I try to share with each of my clients. I work from a strengths-based perspective and believe each individual possesses unique skills and abilities to overcome struggles. I strive to create an environment of safety, allowing individuals to explore difficult issues by shining light on the situation and helping each person connect with their truth.
"Healing comes when we choose to walk away from darkness and move towards a brighter light." Dieter F. Uchtdorf's words echo the message I try to share with each of my clients. I work from a strengths-based perspective and believe each individual possesses unique skills and abilities to overcome struggles. I strive to create an environment of safety, allowing individuals to explore difficult issues by shining light on the situation and helping each person connect with their truth.
(480) 405-5154 View (480) 405-5154
Photo of Paige Severance, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paige Severance
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Hi! I’m Paige, I specialize in trauma and substance abuse recovery, and I’m here to walk with on your healing journey. Navigating the aftermath of trauma can feel like an unending struggle, but you don’t have to face it alone. Offering virtual sessions for all AZ residents or in-person for those in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. I use a therapeutic approach tailored to your needs to help you find meaning, build resilience, and reclaim your life. I am committed to fostering an environment where you can openly share your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment.
Hi! I’m Paige, I specialize in trauma and substance abuse recovery, and I’m here to walk with on your healing journey. Navigating the aftermath of trauma can feel like an unending struggle, but you don’t have to face it alone. Offering virtual sessions for all AZ residents or in-person for those in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. I use a therapeutic approach tailored to your needs to help you find meaning, build resilience, and reclaim your life. I am committed to fostering an environment where you can openly share your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment.
(623) 343-1880 View (623) 343-1880
Photo of Lucy Guadalupe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lucy Guadalupe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I work hands on with a diverse population with various presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, infidelity, grief, co-parenting, mood management, LGBTQ, sexual abuse, life transitions, and more. I ensure providing a safe space for my clients so working towards the best version of themselves and their goals feels comfortable and achievable. My approach is collaborative with all clients and all presenting concerns. I believe that each client has their own unique story and I want to validate this story and healing.
I work hands on with a diverse population with various presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, infidelity, grief, co-parenting, mood management, LGBTQ, sexual abuse, life transitions, and more. I ensure providing a safe space for my clients so working towards the best version of themselves and their goals feels comfortable and achievable. My approach is collaborative with all clients and all presenting concerns. I believe that each client has their own unique story and I want to validate this story and healing.
(480) 605-2564 View (480) 605-2564
Photo of Shockie Dersno, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shockie Dersno
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85259  (Online Only)
I'm so glad that you decided to invest in yourself! So many times we are everything to everyone and forget about ourselves or put ourselves last. It is essential that we stop and get what we need so that we can be the best for ourselves and those that we love.
I'm so glad that you decided to invest in yourself! So many times we are everything to everyone and forget about ourselves or put ourselves last. It is essential that we stop and get what we need so that we can be the best for ourselves and those that we love.
(520) 525-1301 View (520) 525-1301
Photo of Angela Smigiel, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Smigiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a rich background in mental and behavioral health since 2004. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and my Master's degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed, aiming to help you heal from your past and transform unhelpful patterns. I have extensive training in various trauma treatment modalities, including Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a rich background in mental and behavioral health since 2004. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and my Master's degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. My therapeutic approach is integrative and trauma-informed, aiming to help you heal from your past and transform unhelpful patterns. I have extensive training in various trauma treatment modalities, including Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT).
(480) 428-2670 View (480) 428-2670
Curtis T Cripe
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
A brain development expert and published research author, Curtis Cripe currently practices neuroengineering at NTL Group. Curtis Cripe entered the field of behavioral medicine after a successful engineering career in which he helped orchestrate the first Mars landing at JPL and managed software development for DOD projects. Cripe's accomplishments in the behavioral medicine field include the creation of Crossroads Institute, an organization that helps family members who have suffered brain injuries or face learning disabilities. He has also developed programs designed to nurture brain development in young people who are developmentally delayed and help injured adults recover brain function.
A brain development expert and published research author, Curtis Cripe currently practices neuroengineering at NTL Group. Curtis Cripe entered the field of behavioral medicine after a successful engineering career in which he helped orchestrate the first Mars landing at JPL and managed software development for DOD projects. Cripe's accomplishments in the behavioral medicine field include the creation of Crossroads Institute, an organization that helps family members who have suffered brain injuries or face learning disabilities. He has also developed programs designed to nurture brain development in young people who are developmentally delayed and help injured adults recover brain function.
(602) 904-5064 View (602) 904-5064
Photo of Krystina A. Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist
Krystina A. Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Hi! I am Dr. Krystina. I’m excited that you saw something in me that feels like a good fit. I really love helping people at any age discover a more fulfilling, nourishing life — one where they feel connected to what makes them feel truly alive and excited for the future. Text me anytime at (480) 463-4432 or call/email to schedule your free 15-min phone or video meet and greet with me — it’s a quick and easy way for you to get a feel for me and how I can help you. With 17 years of experience (I look younger than I am), you will find that I am very easy to talk to and knowledgeable about how to help you or your child/teen.
Hi! I am Dr. Krystina. I’m excited that you saw something in me that feels like a good fit. I really love helping people at any age discover a more fulfilling, nourishing life — one where they feel connected to what makes them feel truly alive and excited for the future. Text me anytime at (480) 463-4432 or call/email to schedule your free 15-min phone or video meet and greet with me — it’s a quick and easy way for you to get a feel for me and how I can help you. With 17 years of experience (I look younger than I am), you will find that I am very easy to talk to and knowledgeable about how to help you or your child/teen.
(480) 463-4432 View (480) 463-4432
Photo of Morgan Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
My style of therapy is very inviting. I pride myself on providing a nonjudgmental space to share what has been on your heart and mind. No worry, concern, frustration, or hurt is too trivial to process and talk about. By verbalizing and externalizing, we begin to process together our experience and feel relief from symptoms that hold us back from stepping into our authenticity and growth. The feedback that I have gotten from previous clients after that initial session is, "Wow! I didn't think I would have been that comfortable," or "You were so easy to talk to."
My style of therapy is very inviting. I pride myself on providing a nonjudgmental space to share what has been on your heart and mind. No worry, concern, frustration, or hurt is too trivial to process and talk about. By verbalizing and externalizing, we begin to process together our experience and feel relief from symptoms that hold us back from stepping into our authenticity and growth. The feedback that I have gotten from previous clients after that initial session is, "Wow! I didn't think I would have been that comfortable," or "You were so easy to talk to."
(623) 283-2111 View (623) 283-2111
Photo of Ngozi Nwosu, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ngozi Nwosu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
I’m a neurodiverse-affirming therapist with 6+ years of experience, and whose immigrant upbringing has shaped who I am today. Originally from NYC and now practicing in Arizona, I bring a blend of cultural sensitivity and practical experience to create a warm, inclusive space for my clients. As a proud geek, I love weaving in pop culture, creative problem-solving, and imaginative techniques to make therapy both effective and fun. Whether it’s through movies, games, or books, I connect with clients in ways that truly resonate with their unique interests.
I’m a neurodiverse-affirming therapist with 6+ years of experience, and whose immigrant upbringing has shaped who I am today. Originally from NYC and now practicing in Arizona, I bring a blend of cultural sensitivity and practical experience to create a warm, inclusive space for my clients. As a proud geek, I love weaving in pop culture, creative problem-solving, and imaginative techniques to make therapy both effective and fun. Whether it’s through movies, games, or books, I connect with clients in ways that truly resonate with their unique interests.
(480) 608-9122 View (480) 608-9122
Photo of Nicki Kemper, MA , PsyD, Psychologist
Nicki Kemper
Psychologist, MA , PsyD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85257  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! If you're hurting and experiencing issues in life that feel unmanageable, I'm here to help. My job is to make you feel comfortable and safe throughout the process of therapy from beginning to end. I work with clients of various backgrounds and treat an array of concerns including – trauma, addiction, depression/anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, self-esteem issues, and many more. I offer individual, couple's, and group therapy and use a collaborative approach to make sure my clients are comfortable and informed. If you feel I may be a match for you in terms of therapy, please feel free to reach out!
Accepting new clients! If you're hurting and experiencing issues in life that feel unmanageable, I'm here to help. My job is to make you feel comfortable and safe throughout the process of therapy from beginning to end. I work with clients of various backgrounds and treat an array of concerns including – trauma, addiction, depression/anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, self-esteem issues, and many more. I offer individual, couple's, and group therapy and use a collaborative approach to make sure my clients are comfortable and informed. If you feel I may be a match for you in terms of therapy, please feel free to reach out!
(520) 630-3106 View (520) 630-3106
Photo of Kari Johnson, PsyD, MT-BC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kari Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Dr. Kari Johnson (she/her) is a pre-licensed doctor of psychology (Psy.D) and board certified music therapist (MT-BC). I have worked within the juvenile correction system, forensic state hospital, private practice, and community mental health. My experience has included individual and group therapy with adolescents and adults who suffer from serious mental illness, trauma, sex addiction and offending behaviors, personality disorders, burnout, self-compassion, first responders, and criminal thinking.
Dr. Kari Johnson (she/her) is a pre-licensed doctor of psychology (Psy.D) and board certified music therapist (MT-BC). I have worked within the juvenile correction system, forensic state hospital, private practice, and community mental health. My experience has included individual and group therapy with adolescents and adults who suffer from serious mental illness, trauma, sex addiction and offending behaviors, personality disorders, burnout, self-compassion, first responders, and criminal thinking.
(480) 947-5739 View (480) 947-5739
Caitlyn Tirella
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Hello! My name is Caitlyn, I grew up in Orange County, California and have been living in Arizona for the last ten years. I believe I was meant to be in the helping profession and this position aligns with my spirit and being. Therapy can seem overwhelming to begin with and I'm here to provide that comfort and space for the difficulties anyone may be facing. Clients that want to challenge their discomfort and move forwards will yield the most success working with me.
Hello! My name is Caitlyn, I grew up in Orange County, California and have been living in Arizona for the last ten years. I believe I was meant to be in the helping profession and this position aligns with my spirit and being. Therapy can seem overwhelming to begin with and I'm here to provide that comfort and space for the difficulties anyone may be facing. Clients that want to challenge their discomfort and move forwards will yield the most success working with me.
(602) 362-7444 View (602) 362-7444
Photo of Kori Stecker, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kori Stecker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Not accepting new clients
It can be overwhelming and even downright disappointing when life isn’t going quite as you expected or planned. You find yourself stuck and maybe lost, wondering how you got here. This life isn’t the life you imagined. Perfectionism, motherhood, low self-esteem, significant loss, death of a loved one, or other life challenges have thrown you for a loop and left you in a place of great discomfort. This current path is upsetting, and you feel more stressed, frustrated, and tearful than you’d like to be. You know things can be better, and you’re ready to get some help to bring back the peace and happiness you long for.
It can be overwhelming and even downright disappointing when life isn’t going quite as you expected or planned. You find yourself stuck and maybe lost, wondering how you got here. This life isn’t the life you imagined. Perfectionism, motherhood, low self-esteem, significant loss, death of a loved one, or other life challenges have thrown you for a loop and left you in a place of great discomfort. This current path is upsetting, and you feel more stressed, frustrated, and tearful than you’d like to be. You know things can be better, and you’re ready to get some help to bring back the peace and happiness you long for.
(480) 712-7525 View (480) 712-7525
Photo of Angela G Bowers, PhD, Psychologist
Angela G Bowers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
My training and professional experience has been with clients of all ages. I work primarily as a cognitive/behavioral therapist. This means that I am practical, goal oriented, and that the work is research based. I have special training in clinical hypnosis, EFT, guided imagery and meditation, as well as yoga. I often blend cognitive work with other modalities. I give specific recommendations and frequently assign "homework". I believe people who are motivated can make tremendous changes. I feel priviledged and honored to work with clients who are facing tough life challenges. I love my work!
My training and professional experience has been with clients of all ages. I work primarily as a cognitive/behavioral therapist. This means that I am practical, goal oriented, and that the work is research based. I have special training in clinical hypnosis, EFT, guided imagery and meditation, as well as yoga. I often blend cognitive work with other modalities. I give specific recommendations and frequently assign "homework". I believe people who are motivated can make tremendous changes. I feel priviledged and honored to work with clients who are facing tough life challenges. I love my work!
(480) 447-9230 View (480) 447-9230
Photo of Jennifer Jackson, LAC, Counselor
Jennifer Jackson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Reaching out for help during a difficult time of your life is not easy. We understand this and want to make sure you feel comfortable, heard and understood while also challenging you in ways to improve your life. I can help you reduce anxiety and depression through CBT and CPT as well as create our sessions specific to meet your needs.
Reaching out for help during a difficult time of your life is not easy. We understand this and want to make sure you feel comfortable, heard and understood while also challenging you in ways to improve your life. I can help you reduce anxiety and depression through CBT and CPT as well as create our sessions specific to meet your needs.
(480) 571-9208 View (480) 571-9208
Photo of Brandon M Chatfield, MA, DHSc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon M Chatfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, DHSc, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Are you feeling like something is lacking in your life? Do you want more from your day to day existence? Is depression, anxiety, stress and low self confidence a constant gnawing in the back of your mind? Are you tired of feeling this way? Therapy can help you throw off these self made manacles. You can gain a sense of resilience in the face of hardship to the point where you conquer and truly begin to fulfill your potential. You can create a vast sense of meaning and purpose in life that not only carries you through but makes you effective, overflowing with energy and vitality.
Are you feeling like something is lacking in your life? Do you want more from your day to day existence? Is depression, anxiety, stress and low self confidence a constant gnawing in the back of your mind? Are you tired of feeling this way? Therapy can help you throw off these self made manacles. You can gain a sense of resilience in the face of hardship to the point where you conquer and truly begin to fulfill your potential. You can create a vast sense of meaning and purpose in life that not only carries you through but makes you effective, overflowing with energy and vitality.
(602) 833-2145 View (602) 833-2145
Photo of Kaitlyn Masai - Refreshed Psychotherapy, Dr. Kaitlyn Masai, PhD, Psychologist
Refreshed Psychotherapy, Dr. Kaitlyn Masai
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
You feel stressed out and exhausted. Between work and family life, you are constantly busy but as soon as you lay down at night your mind starts racing and it keeps you from the sleep you so desperately need. You feel like you are working all the time, but you never get anything accomplished. You can’t relax, even when you have down time, and it’s hard to be alone with your thoughts. You feel like you are failing in the areas of your life that are the most important to you. If you could just break out of this unhealthy cycle, you would be happier and more successful in both your personal and professional life.
You feel stressed out and exhausted. Between work and family life, you are constantly busy but as soon as you lay down at night your mind starts racing and it keeps you from the sleep you so desperately need. You feel like you are working all the time, but you never get anything accomplished. You can’t relax, even when you have down time, and it’s hard to be alone with your thoughts. You feel like you are failing in the areas of your life that are the most important to you. If you could just break out of this unhealthy cycle, you would be happier and more successful in both your personal and professional life.
(602) 691-5471 View (602) 691-5471
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
84% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
70% Stress
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
61% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Scottsdale?

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.