Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

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Tonya Kinnaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
I am passionate about providing support for those adults who have lost a companion animal. Pets are an important part of our lives and when we lose one, a whole range of emotions can come up including grief, confusion, anger, guilt and depression. I have a Pet Loss Grief Support Group that can provide you support and encouragement in your journey of grief after losing your pet.
I am passionate about providing support for those adults who have lost a companion animal. Pets are an important part of our lives and when we lose one, a whole range of emotions can come up including grief, confusion, anger, guilt and depression. I have a Pet Loss Grief Support Group that can provide you support and encouragement in your journey of grief after losing your pet.
(623) 294-5738 View (623) 294-5738
Photo of Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Phoenix, AZ
Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I understand that the decision to seek therapy is not always an easy one, often times it can feel intimidating and scary. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment to encourage honest communication and trust between partners and family members. I believe in providing an empathetic experience to help my clients feel heard, supported and comfortable in therapy. I work collaboratively to identify strengths and resources in order to help clients transform the way they navigate life and work toward healing and change.
I understand that the decision to seek therapy is not always an easy one, often times it can feel intimidating and scary. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment to encourage honest communication and trust between partners and family members. I believe in providing an empathetic experience to help my clients feel heard, supported and comfortable in therapy. I work collaboratively to identify strengths and resources in order to help clients transform the way they navigate life and work toward healing and change.
(623) 294-6079 View (623) 294-6079
Photo of Sherri Sierens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Sherri Sierens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
We are met with many unique challenges which may cause stress, anxiety, depression, relational conflict, or issues with communication. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have experience working with couples, individual adults, parenting/family, relationship strains, depression, anxiety, grief, along with other issues. I am able to provide a warm, compassionate and supportive environment to safely explore your needs for positive change. Accept BCBS, Optum/UHC Insurance and Aetna.
We are met with many unique challenges which may cause stress, anxiety, depression, relational conflict, or issues with communication. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have experience working with couples, individual adults, parenting/family, relationship strains, depression, anxiety, grief, along with other issues. I am able to provide a warm, compassionate and supportive environment to safely explore your needs for positive change. Accept BCBS, Optum/UHC Insurance and Aetna.
(520) 346-0898 View (520) 346-0898
Photo of Dr Susan Richardson LLC, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Dr Susan Richardson LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
You’re tired of feeling this way. Despite how perfect your life looks, you feel stressed, anxious, or irritable much of the time. You’re “stuck in your head” and not enjoying much of anything. Of course it doesn’t help that you and your partner are even more distant than usual. You’re not sleeping well, your energy is low, and you’re scared of of things getting even worse. You’d love to feel better but can’t seem to make that happen. You think therapy could help, but searching for the right therapist is overwhelming.
You’re tired of feeling this way. Despite how perfect your life looks, you feel stressed, anxious, or irritable much of the time. You’re “stuck in your head” and not enjoying much of anything. Of course it doesn’t help that you and your partner are even more distant than usual. You’re not sleeping well, your energy is low, and you’re scared of of things getting even worse. You’d love to feel better but can’t seem to make that happen. You think therapy could help, but searching for the right therapist is overwhelming.
(480) 660-0284 View (480) 660-0284
Photo of Charles Atkinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Charles Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Welcome ! I am an Arizona, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. "A therapist can only guide you on your emotional journey, only as far as they have traveled".I have been a therapist for 35 years and married for 46 years. Thus, allowing my life experiences and academic background to a deeper understanding to help heal individuals, couples, and marriages. I will help build and develop a healthy rapport with my clients on a foundation of trust, respect, tolerance, and non- judgement. Also, I bring 30 years of experiences as a Professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey.
Welcome ! I am an Arizona, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. "A therapist can only guide you on your emotional journey, only as far as they have traveled".I have been a therapist for 35 years and married for 46 years. Thus, allowing my life experiences and academic background to a deeper understanding to help heal individuals, couples, and marriages. I will help build and develop a healthy rapport with my clients on a foundation of trust, respect, tolerance, and non- judgement. Also, I bring 30 years of experiences as a Professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey.
(602) 854-9079 View (602) 854-9079
Photo of Nancy R Hay, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Nancy R Hay
Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
I have been helping individuals and couples for over thirty years make positive changes in their lives. Counseling is about changing what is not working in your life, feeling better, and creating new levels of satisfaction, happiness, and peace. If you are experiencing stress or unhappiness and know it's time to do something about it, let my experience and practical approach help you grow in a positive direction. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and develop a plan to uniquely fit your needs, personality, and goals. My goal is to help you as quickly as possible improve your life.
I have been helping individuals and couples for over thirty years make positive changes in their lives. Counseling is about changing what is not working in your life, feeling better, and creating new levels of satisfaction, happiness, and peace. If you are experiencing stress or unhappiness and know it's time to do something about it, let my experience and practical approach help you grow in a positive direction. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and develop a plan to uniquely fit your needs, personality, and goals. My goal is to help you as quickly as possible improve your life.
(480) 568-4007 View (480) 568-4007
Photo of Corey Harper, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Corey Harper
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Welcome! I primarily specialize in treating OCD, picking/pulling disorders, body dysmorphia and anxiety disorders as well as depression, spirituality issues, and mens issues. I take a wholistic and trauma-informed approach. My techniques are founded in Exposure and Response Prevention, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I believe in helping clients look much deeper into their childhood, past experiences, attachments, spirituality, physical health, connection to nature, and core beliefs. I would love to be on your team, helping you create a more meaningful life, less burdened by your OCD or other struggles.
Welcome! I primarily specialize in treating OCD, picking/pulling disorders, body dysmorphia and anxiety disorders as well as depression, spirituality issues, and mens issues. I take a wholistic and trauma-informed approach. My techniques are founded in Exposure and Response Prevention, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I believe in helping clients look much deeper into their childhood, past experiences, attachments, spirituality, physical health, connection to nature, and core beliefs. I would love to be on your team, helping you create a more meaningful life, less burdened by your OCD or other struggles.
(602) 666-9862 View (602) 666-9862
Photo of Tonic Harmony Therapy Services in Phoenix, AZ
Tonic Harmony Therapy Services
MT-BC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85022  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in grief, offering grief therapy through the lens of expressive arts. I believe that we are always traveling - always on a journey. The question is, do we decide to push through the hard places and continue to move forward? Or do we decide that the hard places should be avoided at all costs and accept being stalled, or worse, begin moving backward? The thing to remember is that we never really arrive anywhere. Our journey is life-long and knowing that is what helps us plan new routes and prepare ourselves to deal with inevitable detours. I am here to help you re-visualize your journey.
I specialize in grief, offering grief therapy through the lens of expressive arts. I believe that we are always traveling - always on a journey. The question is, do we decide to push through the hard places and continue to move forward? Or do we decide that the hard places should be avoided at all costs and accept being stalled, or worse, begin moving backward? The thing to remember is that we never really arrive anywhere. Our journey is life-long and knowing that is what helps us plan new routes and prepare ourselves to deal with inevitable detours. I am here to help you re-visualize your journey.
(623) 281-3833 View (623) 281-3833
Photo of PSCS Wellness Center, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
PSCS Wellness Center
Counselor, LAC, LPC, LASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Is Counseling right for me? Counseling is also about putting yourself and your needs first. It is about building yourself up so that you can feel stronger and healthier. Life is full of ups and down and with that come stress and anxiety. These emotions can effect our state of mind and our body. We help you find ways to work through these tough times so that you can thrive and again have joy in your life.
Is Counseling right for me? Counseling is also about putting yourself and your needs first. It is about building yourself up so that you can feel stronger and healthier. Life is full of ups and down and with that come stress and anxiety. These emotions can effect our state of mind and our body. We help you find ways to work through these tough times so that you can thrive and again have joy in your life.
(602) 932-0221 View (602) 932-0221
Photo of Kristin Mervich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Kristin Mervich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Feeling worried much of the time, having panic attacks, and feeling so overwhelmed by your thoughts can be exhausting. My clients often find themselves in this loop of having debilitating thoughts, needing to get rid of them, keeping track of what triggers anxiety so they can avoid it, and yet the worry seems to grow even stronger. And eventually, they are beyond frustrated that these worries seem to be taking over their life. Some thoughts can be about contamination or health, fear of harming others, anxiety related to social situations or morality. Whatever it is, the fears interfere with what's most important to them.
Feeling worried much of the time, having panic attacks, and feeling so overwhelmed by your thoughts can be exhausting. My clients often find themselves in this loop of having debilitating thoughts, needing to get rid of them, keeping track of what triggers anxiety so they can avoid it, and yet the worry seems to grow even stronger. And eventually, they are beyond frustrated that these worries seem to be taking over their life. Some thoughts can be about contamination or health, fear of harming others, anxiety related to social situations or morality. Whatever it is, the fears interfere with what's most important to them.
(480) 442-9890 View (480) 442-9890
Photo of Dr. Sandra Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Sandra Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Life prompts us toward growth and health, leading us to change thoughts, feelings, behaviors, or beliefs that keep us from peace and joy. Difficult childhood or adult experiences may disrupt our ability to connect well with our emotions and deepest heart's desires, making it challenging to have satisfying, healthy relationships. For over 20 years I have helped individuals and couples to heal old wounds and grow past outworn patterns into greater freedom and heart connections. Are you ready to answer life's call to grow? I offer myself as a trustworthy companion in the next phase of your life's journey.
Life prompts us toward growth and health, leading us to change thoughts, feelings, behaviors, or beliefs that keep us from peace and joy. Difficult childhood or adult experiences may disrupt our ability to connect well with our emotions and deepest heart's desires, making it challenging to have satisfying, healthy relationships. For over 20 years I have helped individuals and couples to heal old wounds and grow past outworn patterns into greater freedom and heart connections. Are you ready to answer life's call to grow? I offer myself as a trustworthy companion in the next phase of your life's journey.
(602) 207-8845 View (602) 207-8845
Photo of Melissa Torrez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Melissa Torrez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
“One day or day one. You decide” – Paulo Coelho. Is doing what you have usually done not working anymore? Are you ready for a positive change? Are you ready to work towards that change? Whether your struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression and/or other issues that concern you, I can help guide you toward that change.
“One day or day one. You decide” – Paulo Coelho. Is doing what you have usually done not working anymore? Are you ready for a positive change? Are you ready to work towards that change? Whether your struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression and/or other issues that concern you, I can help guide you toward that change.
(623) 235-8871 View (623) 235-8871
Photo of Tim Nesvig, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Tim Nesvig
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Worry and panic can feel debilitating, and intrusive thoughts can steal your joy. You may struggle with social anxiety, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts involving: contamination, unwanted sexual images, or the fear of harming a loved one. I have dedicated my work to helping kids, teens, and adults break free from unhelpful thought and behavior cycles so they can regain control. My work as a therapist brings me great joy as I see my clients live fulfilling lives amidst everyday uncertainties. As they overcome their fears, they begin to reconnect with their values and what is most important to them.
Worry and panic can feel debilitating, and intrusive thoughts can steal your joy. You may struggle with social anxiety, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts involving: contamination, unwanted sexual images, or the fear of harming a loved one. I have dedicated my work to helping kids, teens, and adults break free from unhelpful thought and behavior cycles so they can regain control. My work as a therapist brings me great joy as I see my clients live fulfilling lives amidst everyday uncertainties. As they overcome their fears, they begin to reconnect with their values and what is most important to them.
(602) 806-9501 View (602) 806-9501
Photo of Mary Vucurevich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Mary Vucurevich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Seeking a therapist can be an unsettling endeavor. I can provide a free 10-minute phone consultation to help you determine whether or not we are a good fit. As your therapist, I bring a whole-person approach to healing the past and maximizing the present. My approach is an eclectic one and with over 30 years counseling experience, my "toolbox" is "well-stocked". We all have our own intuitive wisdom to guide us but we may need help in learning how to hear and honor these messages. I am confident that we can work collaboratively to create the life that you desire.
Seeking a therapist can be an unsettling endeavor. I can provide a free 10-minute phone consultation to help you determine whether or not we are a good fit. As your therapist, I bring a whole-person approach to healing the past and maximizing the present. My approach is an eclectic one and with over 30 years counseling experience, my "toolbox" is "well-stocked". We all have our own intuitive wisdom to guide us but we may need help in learning how to hear and honor these messages. I am confident that we can work collaboratively to create the life that you desire.
(602) 663-9770 View (602) 663-9770
Photo of Kris Keul, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Kris Keul
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
In over ten years of practice, I've noticed many people seek therapy for a few main reasons: A breakdown of trust and communication in intimate relationships; One's past experiences are negatively affecting present reality; Loneliness and disconnection; and a need for a sense of purpose. Of course, there are others, but the reasons I mention show up often. I attribute much of the distress I see in others to self-worth issues. Generally, worthiness is neither modeled nor nurtured in our culture.
In over ten years of practice, I've noticed many people seek therapy for a few main reasons: A breakdown of trust and communication in intimate relationships; One's past experiences are negatively affecting present reality; Loneliness and disconnection; and a need for a sense of purpose. Of course, there are others, but the reasons I mention show up often. I attribute much of the distress I see in others to self-worth issues. Generally, worthiness is neither modeled nor nurtured in our culture.
(480) 800-0320 View (480) 800-0320
Photo of Francesca Marie Mirizio, Pre-Licensed Professional in Phoenix, AZ
Francesca Marie Mirizio
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
I can work with you as an ally during the most difficult phases of your life. You set the goals for change, and I will help guide you to reach them. I also have a great understanding of the dynamics of a healthy relationship and can also offer great insight to clients who struggle with relationship issues. As an Emotional Intelligence Life Coach, I can help you to master your emotions, reduce your stress, and develop emotional intelligence.
I can work with you as an ally during the most difficult phases of your life. You set the goals for change, and I will help guide you to reach them. I also have a great understanding of the dynamics of a healthy relationship and can also offer great insight to clients who struggle with relationship issues. As an Emotional Intelligence Life Coach, I can help you to master your emotions, reduce your stress, and develop emotional intelligence.
(480) 526-9387 View (480) 526-9387
Photo of Tara Liffey Fischer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Tara Liffey Fischer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I believe in consciously decluttering negative thoughts and feelings while actively making room for new ideas about what is possible for the future. I enjoy helping my clients move towards change while examining past traumas through understanding and compassion. I have experience working with teens and adults with complex sexual, emotional, and physical trauma using evidence-based modalities. I am EMDR I and II, SFBT and TF-CBT trained.
I believe in consciously decluttering negative thoughts and feelings while actively making room for new ideas about what is possible for the future. I enjoy helping my clients move towards change while examining past traumas through understanding and compassion. I have experience working with teens and adults with complex sexual, emotional, and physical trauma using evidence-based modalities. I am EMDR I and II, SFBT and TF-CBT trained.
(480) 771-8885 View (480) 771-8885
Photo of Naomi Brackett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Phoenix, AZ
Naomi Brackett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Different times and experiences in life inspire a desire (or need) for change in our selves, and in our relationships. When you're facing challenges and at the cusp of growth, I can offer you understanding, insight, and support for your unique experience, background, and next steps. With a warm and personal approach, I strive to maintain a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental therapy setting where we can work together to address challenges, changes, and goals, while also making space to explore the power and influences of the past.
Different times and experiences in life inspire a desire (or need) for change in our selves, and in our relationships. When you're facing challenges and at the cusp of growth, I can offer you understanding, insight, and support for your unique experience, background, and next steps. With a warm and personal approach, I strive to maintain a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental therapy setting where we can work together to address challenges, changes, and goals, while also making space to explore the power and influences of the past.
(623) 294-6503 View (623) 294-6503
Photo of Patricia Davila, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Patricia Davila
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85051
Now accepting new clients. Are you feeling tired, having trouble concentrating, feel stuck in your head, and feel trapped and alone? Are you struggling to thrive in your day to day life due to a trauma you experienced in the past or recently? I can teach you tools that can help you take your life back. Asking for help with mental health can be hard, but you are not alone. I am here for you! When you are struggling, and feeling low and vulnerable, you need to be able to talk to someone. You deserve help and support and I provide a safe space where you can be heard non-judgmentally.
Now accepting new clients. Are you feeling tired, having trouble concentrating, feel stuck in your head, and feel trapped and alone? Are you struggling to thrive in your day to day life due to a trauma you experienced in the past or recently? I can teach you tools that can help you take your life back. Asking for help with mental health can be hard, but you are not alone. I am here for you! When you are struggling, and feeling low and vulnerable, you need to be able to talk to someone. You deserve help and support and I provide a safe space where you can be heard non-judgmentally.
(602) 755-9497 View (602) 755-9497
Photo of Sarah VanHolland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Sarah VanHolland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
I believe that we all seek love, acceptance, and belonging. When experiences lead us to internalize a shame message that we are not enough, we can develop ways of interacting with the world that, though helpful in the past, are no longer working (or may even be harmful). This can bring on issues related to anxiety, depression, shame and low-self-esteem, feeling out of control of your emotions, and conflicts in your relationships. As overwhelming as life can feel, I truly believe finding freedom and healing is possible and consider it a privilege to support you in this process.
I believe that we all seek love, acceptance, and belonging. When experiences lead us to internalize a shame message that we are not enough, we can develop ways of interacting with the world that, though helpful in the past, are no longer working (or may even be harmful). This can bring on issues related to anxiety, depression, shame and low-self-esteem, feeling out of control of your emotions, and conflicts in your relationships. As overwhelming as life can feel, I truly believe finding freedom and healing is possible and consider it a privilege to support you in this process.
(480) 418-9721 View (480) 418-9721

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Phoenix?

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.