Therapists in Lexington, KY

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Photo of Brittany Vogel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Brittany Vogel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
We aren't designed to carry our burdens alone. Rather than being shameful or a sign of weakness, it is evidence of great strength and resilience to be able to reach out and ask for help. Because I believe in people’s capacity for growth, change, and healing I am passionate about walking alongside those who are choosing to take steps to work through the challenges that are holding them back. I have had the privilege of shouldering with clients as they navigate the challenges of trauma and abuse, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, life transitions, difficulty with relationships and boundaries, and matters of personal growth.
We aren't designed to carry our burdens alone. Rather than being shameful or a sign of weakness, it is evidence of great strength and resilience to be able to reach out and ask for help. Because I believe in people’s capacity for growth, change, and healing I am passionate about walking alongside those who are choosing to take steps to work through the challenges that are holding them back. I have had the privilege of shouldering with clients as they navigate the challenges of trauma and abuse, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, life transitions, difficulty with relationships and boundaries, and matters of personal growth.
(859) 217-4758 View (859) 217-4758
Photo of Anthony (Tony) B Roberts, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Anthony (Tony) B Roberts
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, M Ed, LPCC-S, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40514  (Online Only)
I am currently working with Dr. on Demand, MDLive, and Grow therapy. I enjoy working with clients who truly want to make the changes in their lives to have a healthy and happy life. I want to be a partner in your recovery of either mental health concerns or substance abuse concerns. Reaching out for help can be the hardest, bravest and most responsible decision you will ever make and when you are ready, I am here to help and look forward to working with you. I can be found on any of the 3 telehealth services listed above.
I am currently working with Dr. on Demand, MDLive, and Grow therapy. I enjoy working with clients who truly want to make the changes in their lives to have a healthy and happy life. I want to be a partner in your recovery of either mental health concerns or substance abuse concerns. Reaching out for help can be the hardest, bravest and most responsible decision you will ever make and when you are ready, I am here to help and look forward to working with you. I can be found on any of the 3 telehealth services listed above.
(859) 251-2857 View (859) 251-2857
Photo of Tivoli Hendricks, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Tivoli Hendricks
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40514
I love working with young adults (20s/30s) who are interested in experiencing more authenticity, freedom, and joy in life. I provide a safe space to process the fears that hold you back from living your most authentic life and will help you soothe and comfort the wounded parts of yourself that act out in fear to stop you from being fully you. We'll talk about how your less authentic behaviors are your way of trying to protect yourself from pain or rejection and discuss whether these protective measures are still necessary in your current situation. My goal is to help you develop more compassion, gentleness and love towards yourself.
I love working with young adults (20s/30s) who are interested in experiencing more authenticity, freedom, and joy in life. I provide a safe space to process the fears that hold you back from living your most authentic life and will help you soothe and comfort the wounded parts of yourself that act out in fear to stop you from being fully you. We'll talk about how your less authentic behaviors are your way of trying to protect yourself from pain or rejection and discuss whether these protective measures are still necessary in your current situation. My goal is to help you develop more compassion, gentleness and love towards yourself.
(859) 518-8690 View (859) 518-8690
Photo of Crystal Farmer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Crystal Farmer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Crystal! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, and I have a passion for working with adults 18 and over in developing skills to effectively manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, anger issues, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, substance abuse, and grief & loss. I understand from personal experience many of the challenges that come with these issues and strongly believe that holistic well-being involves balance of mind, body, & spirit.
Hi, I'm Crystal! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, and I have a passion for working with adults 18 and over in developing skills to effectively manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, anger issues, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, substance abuse, and grief & loss. I understand from personal experience many of the challenges that come with these issues and strongly believe that holistic well-being involves balance of mind, body, & spirit.
(859) 374-3598 View (859) 374-3598
Photo of KayEllen McKenzie, Counselor in Lexington, KY
KayEllen McKenzie
Counselor, MA, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I believe that each person has strengths and resources that therapy can help them to discover and apply to current life challenges as well as building resilience to help them manage future problems. I utilize evidence-based practices to help clients increase their self-awareness and self-compassion, understand their immense value as a human being, and learn how to better care for themselves holistically - mind, body, and spirit. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, depression, problem-solving, communication, and relationship issues.
I believe that each person has strengths and resources that therapy can help them to discover and apply to current life challenges as well as building resilience to help them manage future problems. I utilize evidence-based practices to help clients increase their self-awareness and self-compassion, understand their immense value as a human being, and learn how to better care for themselves holistically - mind, body, and spirit. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, depression, problem-solving, communication, and relationship issues.
(859) 549-7699 View (859) 549-7699
Photo of Danielle Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Danielle Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40514
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Many of the individuals I work with are struggling with unwanted thoughts, excessive worrying, often feeling depressed and/or struggling with not having a sense of control (or fear of uncertainty). They are often putting themselves down, experiencing poor self-esteem, not feeling like they are enough and/or placing high expectations on themselves or even others. They also may be struggling with adapting to multiple changes and/ or stressors going on in their life, balancing the work/school/life stress, or simply need help with improving expressing their feelings.
Feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Many of the individuals I work with are struggling with unwanted thoughts, excessive worrying, often feeling depressed and/or struggling with not having a sense of control (or fear of uncertainty). They are often putting themselves down, experiencing poor self-esteem, not feeling like they are enough and/or placing high expectations on themselves or even others. They also may be struggling with adapting to multiple changes and/ or stressors going on in their life, balancing the work/school/life stress, or simply need help with improving expressing their feelings.
(502) 547-9959 View (502) 547-9959
Photo of Kelly Zent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Kelly Zent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
Hello, my name is Kelly, and I am a Lexington native serving adult clients in Lexington - welcome to my profile! My hope is to be able to sit with you through whatever challenges you face, then look with you for the way ahead. Mental illness and personal struggles can be a part of the journey of our lives; as part of your journey, I will work alongside you to process those struggles and to assist you in finding the tools you need to cope with those struggles.
Hello, my name is Kelly, and I am a Lexington native serving adult clients in Lexington - welcome to my profile! My hope is to be able to sit with you through whatever challenges you face, then look with you for the way ahead. Mental illness and personal struggles can be a part of the journey of our lives; as part of your journey, I will work alongside you to process those struggles and to assist you in finding the tools you need to cope with those struggles.
(859) 350-6089 View (859) 350-6089
Photo of Larry Vaughan, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Larry Vaughan
Counselor, MEd, LPCC, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40515
No judgement, only solutions! I work with adolescents and adults (families and couples too) to navigate some of life's challenges. I'd love to talk with you by phone or email to see if we might be a good fit. If we're not, I bet I know who might be.
No judgement, only solutions! I work with adolescents and adults (families and couples too) to navigate some of life's challenges. I'd love to talk with you by phone or email to see if we might be a good fit. If we're not, I bet I know who might be.
(859) 340-8201 View (859) 340-8201
Photo of Timothy Weddington, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Timothy Weddington
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
Matthew Weddington is a licensed professional clinical counselor with dual master's degrees in school counseling and clinical mental health counseling. His passion resides in integrating evidenced-based treatment modalities with a strong emphasis on the mind-body connection. He is experienced in school, outpatient and inpatient treatment settings and has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults for mental health and substance abuse issues. His specialties include addictions, anxiety, sleep disorders, panic disorder, mood disorders, personality disorders and recovery from childhood and adult traumas.
Matthew Weddington is a licensed professional clinical counselor with dual master's degrees in school counseling and clinical mental health counseling. His passion resides in integrating evidenced-based treatment modalities with a strong emphasis on the mind-body connection. He is experienced in school, outpatient and inpatient treatment settings and has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults for mental health and substance abuse issues. His specialties include addictions, anxiety, sleep disorders, panic disorder, mood disorders, personality disorders and recovery from childhood and adult traumas.
(502) 237-7611 View (502) 237-7611
Photo of Zoe Beckhart, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Zoe Beckhart
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
Hi! I am an LPCC and NCC in Kentucky and am trained in working with adults with a variety of mental health needs, such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem/self-confidence, stress related concerns, adjustment issues, grief and substance use. I strive to meet my clients where they are and ensure my office is a safe space for them to process any issues or challenges they are facing to help in achieving their goals.
Hi! I am an LPCC and NCC in Kentucky and am trained in working with adults with a variety of mental health needs, such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem/self-confidence, stress related concerns, adjustment issues, grief and substance use. I strive to meet my clients where they are and ensure my office is a safe space for them to process any issues or challenges they are facing to help in achieving their goals.
(859) 517-4189 View (859) 517-4189
Photo of Kara Fresh McMeekin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lexington, KY
Kara Fresh McMeekin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Therapy serves a unique purpose to each individual. I'm committed to helping you, your partner, or your family work towards the goals and individual hopes you identify as important to your life and relationships. I focus on creating an atmosphere that is safe and provides you with a place to share your story without fear of judgment. Therapy can help you find solutions and learn skills to help you cope with daily stresses, relational and marital problems, past trauma, job stress, grief and loss, etc. I can offer professional guidance and support as you identify and work towards your goals.
Therapy serves a unique purpose to each individual. I'm committed to helping you, your partner, or your family work towards the goals and individual hopes you identify as important to your life and relationships. I focus on creating an atmosphere that is safe and provides you with a place to share your story without fear of judgment. Therapy can help you find solutions and learn skills to help you cope with daily stresses, relational and marital problems, past trauma, job stress, grief and loss, etc. I can offer professional guidance and support as you identify and work towards your goals.
(859) 904-2789 View (859) 904-2789
Photo of Elisha Johnson - Hope Awaits Counseling, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Elisha Johnson - Hope Awaits Counseling
Counselor, LPCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40511
You might be hesitant to reach out for help and feel you should be able to handle things on your own. You are not alone! Just like we would enlist other's expertise in any other areas of life, counseling is no different. There are a lot of different counselors. It is important to find the right one for you. I can help you evaluate your needs and goals to see if Hope Awaits Counseling is a good fit for you.
You might be hesitant to reach out for help and feel you should be able to handle things on your own. You are not alone! Just like we would enlist other's expertise in any other areas of life, counseling is no different. There are a lot of different counselors. It is important to find the right one for you. I can help you evaluate your needs and goals to see if Hope Awaits Counseling is a good fit for you.
(859) 517-5218 View (859) 517-5218
Photo of Bethany Christian, Psychologist in Lexington, KY
Bethany Christian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
Dr. Christian earned her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Spalding University in 2015 and completed her predoctoral internship at the University of Idaho Counseling & Testing Center. Her clinical interests include psychological assessment of ADHD and Learning Disorders and psychological testing to aid in diagnostic clarification and treatment planning. She is a member of the Kentucky Psychological Association.
Dr. Christian earned her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Spalding University in 2015 and completed her predoctoral internship at the University of Idaho Counseling & Testing Center. Her clinical interests include psychological assessment of ADHD and Learning Disorders and psychological testing to aid in diagnostic clarification and treatment planning. She is a member of the Kentucky Psychological Association.
(859) 648-2857 View (859) 648-2857
Photo of Inner Solace Counseling -Amanda C. Parsons, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lexington, KY
Inner Solace Counseling -Amanda C. Parsons, LPCC-S
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40504
Is your stress, anxiety or depression affecting your job, relationships, or time with family and friends? Do you need help moving past a difficult time? At Inner Solace Counseling, we believe each person has the ability within themselves to develop personal strengths and work through their own issues. Our job as your counselor is to help you find the tools, strength, and confidence to do so in a safe space, free from judgement or shame. Call or email today or go to www.innersolacecounseling.com for appointment options!
Is your stress, anxiety or depression affecting your job, relationships, or time with family and friends? Do you need help moving past a difficult time? At Inner Solace Counseling, we believe each person has the ability within themselves to develop personal strengths and work through their own issues. Our job as your counselor is to help you find the tools, strength, and confidence to do so in a safe space, free from judgement or shame. Call or email today or go to www.innersolacecounseling.com for appointment options!
(859) 439-4192 View (859) 439-4192
Photo of Soulshine Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Soulshine Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
Maybe you’re feeling touched-out, overwhelmed or you don't recognize the person staring back at you in the mirror anymore. This may be during a break up, job transition, infertility, during the changes of pregnancy and motherhood, or grief and loss. Maybe you want to heal past trauma or understand the impact of attachment style on your current relationships or parenting. Whatever brings you here, you’ll find the empathy and validation you’ve been craving. I have a special affinity for working with clients struggling with pregnancy, parenting, postpartum and grief/loss.
Maybe you’re feeling touched-out, overwhelmed or you don't recognize the person staring back at you in the mirror anymore. This may be during a break up, job transition, infertility, during the changes of pregnancy and motherhood, or grief and loss. Maybe you want to heal past trauma or understand the impact of attachment style on your current relationships or parenting. Whatever brings you here, you’ll find the empathy and validation you’ve been craving. I have a special affinity for working with clients struggling with pregnancy, parenting, postpartum and grief/loss.
(859) 295-6406 View (859) 295-6406
Photo of Martin Beck, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lexington, KY
Martin Beck
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40511
Contemporary society can be isolating and alienating. We all experience difficulties that leave emotional scars. Even our successes come with stress and anxiety. When our energy is focused on achievement and perfection, we lose or deny our authentic selves in that striving. If compelled to live outside our actual values, we may lose our sense of meaning or purpose. I provide individual therapy for adults navigating life transitions or coping with work, family, or health challenges. I have training and experience working with clients who’ve experienced trauma.
Contemporary society can be isolating and alienating. We all experience difficulties that leave emotional scars. Even our successes come with stress and anxiety. When our energy is focused on achievement and perfection, we lose or deny our authentic selves in that striving. If compelled to live outside our actual values, we may lose our sense of meaning or purpose. I provide individual therapy for adults navigating life transitions or coping with work, family, or health challenges. I have training and experience working with clients who’ve experienced trauma.
(859) 809-2712 View (859) 809-2712
Photo of Kirstin Parsons, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Kirstin Parsons
Counselor, MAE, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40515
Do you need support to achieve your goals? Would you like guidance in navigating daily life stressors? Or is it difficult to overcome things in your past? Have you thought that maybe it is time to talk with someone to get the desired results you have been hoping for? I am here to be a safe space for you to grow in the positive direction that you choose! I emphasize multicultural competency and respect for all genders and cultures in my practices. My kind and gentle approach coupled with motivation and healthy confrontation can be helpful in your journey.
Do you need support to achieve your goals? Would you like guidance in navigating daily life stressors? Or is it difficult to overcome things in your past? Have you thought that maybe it is time to talk with someone to get the desired results you have been hoping for? I am here to be a safe space for you to grow in the positive direction that you choose! I emphasize multicultural competency and respect for all genders and cultures in my practices. My kind and gentle approach coupled with motivation and healthy confrontation can be helpful in your journey.
(859) 544-2562 View (859) 544-2562
Photo of Devon Bowling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, KY
Devon Bowling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40505
Life can feel like an overwhelming maze. Throw in fears about the unknown, low energy or mood, and the pressure to keep it together, and it can feel like the worst kind of obstacle course was dropped into that maze. Never mind the mixed information to “take a left!” or “go right!” It’s tough knowing what will actually be helpful when uncertainty or stress hit and you can’t focus on anything else. Or how to take the next step when you feel frazzled just by the thought of balancing of everything. And who actually knows how to navigate what it feels like to be side-swiped by medical anxiety or your new role as a caregiver?
Life can feel like an overwhelming maze. Throw in fears about the unknown, low energy or mood, and the pressure to keep it together, and it can feel like the worst kind of obstacle course was dropped into that maze. Never mind the mixed information to “take a left!” or “go right!” It’s tough knowing what will actually be helpful when uncertainty or stress hit and you can’t focus on anything else. Or how to take the next step when you feel frazzled just by the thought of balancing of everything. And who actually knows how to navigate what it feels like to be side-swiped by medical anxiety or your new role as a caregiver?
(859) 545-8097 View (859) 545-8097
Photo of Sarah Cummins, Counselor in Lexington, KY
Sarah Cummins
Counselor, LPCA, CTP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40517  (Online Only)
Openings immediately! I am passionate about helping people deal with changes in life as they navigate the path to independence, confidence, and a peaceful mind. I have worked primarily with adults and teenagers who are going through feelings of anxiety, panic, depression, and the lasting effects of trauma. I am particularly passionate about working with people who have experienced religious trauma. I provide a nonjudgemental space for people of all identities to clarify and work towards the change they want to see in their life and find a place where they belong.
Openings immediately! I am passionate about helping people deal with changes in life as they navigate the path to independence, confidence, and a peaceful mind. I have worked primarily with adults and teenagers who are going through feelings of anxiety, panic, depression, and the lasting effects of trauma. I am particularly passionate about working with people who have experienced religious trauma. I provide a nonjudgemental space for people of all identities to clarify and work towards the change they want to see in their life and find a place where they belong.
(859) 715-1423 View (859) 715-1423
Photo of Brianna Prewitt, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Lexington, KY
Brianna Prewitt
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Waitlist for new clients
In a world filled with labels and titles, we are all simply human first. Being human means we are all bound to get it wrong sometimes no matter how much we have (or don’t have) figured out. Life is hard, and it’s natural that challenges sometimes cloud the way we see ourselves and the world; however, I believe worthiness is our birthright, and it is my goal as a clinician to help my clients see that their worthiness has no prerequisite and isn’t something to be earned.
In a world filled with labels and titles, we are all simply human first. Being human means we are all bound to get it wrong sometimes no matter how much we have (or don’t have) figured out. Life is hard, and it’s natural that challenges sometimes cloud the way we see ourselves and the world; however, I believe worthiness is our birthright, and it is my goal as a clinician to help my clients see that their worthiness has no prerequisite and isn’t something to be earned.
(859) 484-8681 View (859) 484-8681

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lexington, KY

700+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Lexington, KY who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
63% Relationship Issues
59% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
71% Humana

How Therapists in Lexington, KY see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lexington?

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.