Therapists in Bentonville, AR

Photo of Jeanie Shade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bentonville, AR
Jeanie Shade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712  (Online Only)
Are you on a journey of self-discovery? Perhaps you have been a lifelong student of self-improvement. Or perhaps you are in the middle of a crisis that has gotten your attention and you notice you are repeating unhealthy patterns in your life. Either way, I would love to work with you and teach you a variety of tools to use for finding the best version of yourself. I can help you sort through and understand complex emotions like shame, guilt, despair, hopelessness, and lack of purpose. I will also help you look at your deepest core beliefs that drive much of what you experience in life and help you to learn how to change them.
Are you on a journey of self-discovery? Perhaps you have been a lifelong student of self-improvement. Or perhaps you are in the middle of a crisis that has gotten your attention and you notice you are repeating unhealthy patterns in your life. Either way, I would love to work with you and teach you a variety of tools to use for finding the best version of yourself. I can help you sort through and understand complex emotions like shame, guilt, despair, hopelessness, and lack of purpose. I will also help you look at your deepest core beliefs that drive much of what you experience in life and help you to learn how to change them.
(479) 309-1436 View (479) 309-1436
Photo of Andrea L Penner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Andrea L Penner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am continually humbled and honored to get to know each person that comes to meet with me for therapy. Each person is unique, worthy, and deserves to honor themselves by taking time to self reflect, heal, process, and challenge themselves in a safe, compassionate, and honest way. I have training in trauma recovery and have years of experience working with clients recovering from sexual, physical, emotional, and/or mental abuse. I offer therapy to couples at different stages in their relationship (pre-marital, marital, coparenting) as well as meet with families that want to work thru different familial difficulties.
I am continually humbled and honored to get to know each person that comes to meet with me for therapy. Each person is unique, worthy, and deserves to honor themselves by taking time to self reflect, heal, process, and challenge themselves in a safe, compassionate, and honest way. I have training in trauma recovery and have years of experience working with clients recovering from sexual, physical, emotional, and/or mental abuse. I offer therapy to couples at different stages in their relationship (pre-marital, marital, coparenting) as well as meet with families that want to work thru different familial difficulties.
(479) 236-1052 View (479) 236-1052
Photo of Jennifer Blakeley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Jennifer Blakeley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
My ideal client is someone who simply knows that they have something that they want to explore or work on. They do not have to know how to do it or how to get there, but arrive with an open mind with the desire to collaborate.
My ideal client is someone who simply knows that they have something that they want to explore or work on. They do not have to know how to do it or how to get there, but arrive with an open mind with the desire to collaborate.
(479) 265-5458 View (479) 265-5458
Photo of Secoyia Key, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Secoyia Key
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712  (Online Only)
Restart, renew and refresh your outlook. I'd like to assist you with regaining or finally establishing control over your life through building effective coping skills that help with addressing current and past stressors. My approach will help you to reduce troublesome mental health symptoms by developing a better self-image, exploring healthier life choices, instilling hope and using appropriate coping mechanisms to reach your goals. I can support you in regaining your life from trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, along with building and maintaining happy, healthy relationships with others and yourself.
Restart, renew and refresh your outlook. I'd like to assist you with regaining or finally establishing control over your life through building effective coping skills that help with addressing current and past stressors. My approach will help you to reduce troublesome mental health symptoms by developing a better self-image, exploring healthier life choices, instilling hope and using appropriate coping mechanisms to reach your goals. I can support you in regaining your life from trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, along with building and maintaining happy, healthy relationships with others and yourself.
(501) 588-8533 View (501) 588-8533
Photo of Jennifer Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bentonville, AR
Jennifer Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jennifer Nelson. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Arkansas with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming issues that challenge you. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solutions-Focused approaches to help my clients work their way out of what is distressing them.
Hello! My name is Jennifer Nelson. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Arkansas with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming issues that challenge you. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solutions-Focused approaches to help my clients work their way out of what is distressing them.
(479) 252-9240 View (479) 252-9240
Photo of Shelby Levy, Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Shelby Levy
Counselor, MEd, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
As a counselor, I want to help people search tenaciously for emotionally safe and healthy connections. I want to help people connect with themselves and others. I lean strongly toward attachment theory and want to help people discover and process their deep-rooted attachments and sense of belonging. I am passionate about assisting people to heal and mend the connection that has been broken or disrupted within themselves or with a loved one. For some, this means walking through the grief process, while for others, it might mean working to heal an attachment wound. Whatever it might be, I want to help my clients find what they need.
As a counselor, I want to help people search tenaciously for emotionally safe and healthy connections. I want to help people connect with themselves and others. I lean strongly toward attachment theory and want to help people discover and process their deep-rooted attachments and sense of belonging. I am passionate about assisting people to heal and mend the connection that has been broken or disrupted within themselves or with a loved one. For some, this means walking through the grief process, while for others, it might mean working to heal an attachment wound. Whatever it might be, I want to help my clients find what they need.
(479) 446-6671 View (479) 446-6671
Photo of Cody Bryan, Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Cody Bryan
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Are you bearing the weight of past wounds, passed down through generations, manifesting as stress, anxiety, addiction? Are you battling feelings of shame, guilt, and profound unworthiness, exacerbated by societal stigma due to your Adult ADHD and/or Autism? Are you recognizing the impact your challenges have on your relationships, career, and well-being? Are you seeking solace and guidance, hoping to find a therapist who offers a space of empathy and understanding—a safe harbor for unraveling the tangled web of your trauma? Whether it is addiction, relationship, and/or neurodivergent challenges, I believe you can find healing.
Are you bearing the weight of past wounds, passed down through generations, manifesting as stress, anxiety, addiction? Are you battling feelings of shame, guilt, and profound unworthiness, exacerbated by societal stigma due to your Adult ADHD and/or Autism? Are you recognizing the impact your challenges have on your relationships, career, and well-being? Are you seeking solace and guidance, hoping to find a therapist who offers a space of empathy and understanding—a safe harbor for unraveling the tangled web of your trauma? Whether it is addiction, relationship, and/or neurodivergent challenges, I believe you can find healing.
(479) 323-2897 View (479) 323-2897
Photo of Nick Jones, Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Nick Jones
Counselor, MS, LAC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
As a licensed associate counselor who specializes in working with military veterans, first responders, and other adults who are struggling with PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and/or addiction; I offer a safe and supportive environment where my clients can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. I use various evidence-based techniques to help my clients, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life, and I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals.
As a licensed associate counselor who specializes in working with military veterans, first responders, and other adults who are struggling with PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and/or addiction; I offer a safe and supportive environment where my clients can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. I use various evidence-based techniques to help my clients, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life, and I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals.
(479) 789-9060 View (479) 789-9060
Photo of Shelly Reaves, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Shelly Reaves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADAC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
As we walk through life we face many challenges and trials. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor my goal is to help you face these challenges and overcome them. I provide confidential, private individual and relational counseling services in both Bentonville and Fayetteville Arkansas. I also am a Qualified SAP, (Substance Abuse Professional), by DOT, (Department of Transportation), and I understand how important these services are and I strive to get these completed quickly to get you back to work as soon as possible.
As we walk through life we face many challenges and trials. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor my goal is to help you face these challenges and overcome them. I provide confidential, private individual and relational counseling services in both Bentonville and Fayetteville Arkansas. I also am a Qualified SAP, (Substance Abuse Professional), by DOT, (Department of Transportation), and I understand how important these services are and I strive to get these completed quickly to get you back to work as soon as possible.
(479) 777-2913 View (479) 777-2913
Photo of CheckMate Therapy (CMTherapynwa), Occupational Therapist in Bentonville, AR
CheckMate Therapy (CMTherapynwa)
Occupational Therapist, OTR/L, CAIP
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Receive fast and effective treatment and/or education for: Anxiety, Depression, Marriage, Parenting Relationships and Communication, Sensory Processing, Primitive Reflex Integration, Goal Setting, Problem Solving.
Receive fast and effective treatment and/or education for: Anxiety, Depression, Marriage, Parenting Relationships and Communication, Sensory Processing, Primitive Reflex Integration, Goal Setting, Problem Solving.
(479) 341-1205 View (479) 341-1205
Photo of NWA Psychotherapy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bentonville, AR
NWA Psychotherapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am humbled and honored by the possibility of being part of your journey towards healing and growth. I believe that the foundation of effective therapy is rooted in trust, empathy, and collaboration. My own path to becoming a therapist has been shaped by both personal experiences and professional training. I understand the courage it takes to seek help, having navigated my own challenges and benefited from the guidance of compassionate individuals along the way. These experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
I am humbled and honored by the possibility of being part of your journey towards healing and growth. I believe that the foundation of effective therapy is rooted in trust, empathy, and collaboration. My own path to becoming a therapist has been shaped by both personal experiences and professional training. I understand the courage it takes to seek help, having navigated my own challenges and benefited from the guidance of compassionate individuals along the way. These experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
(479) 315-5271 View (479) 315-5271
Photo of Gayla Spence, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Gayla Spence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. I understand life challenges are different for everyone because we all experience events and phases of life differently. Adjusting to changes in life and relationships or coming to terms with your past can be overwhelming. Empowering you is the most important part of counseling. My goal is to be a team with you if you are looking for growth, change, and a new way of perceiving and receiving life. It takes courage to come to therapy and open up to change whether it be as an individual, couple or a family.
I work with children, teens, adults, and couples. I understand life challenges are different for everyone because we all experience events and phases of life differently. Adjusting to changes in life and relationships or coming to terms with your past can be overwhelming. Empowering you is the most important part of counseling. My goal is to be a team with you if you are looking for growth, change, and a new way of perceiving and receiving life. It takes courage to come to therapy and open up to change whether it be as an individual, couple or a family.
(479) 888-5658 View (479) 888-5658
Photo of Nancy D Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Nancy D Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I am a Licensed Profession Counselor and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have been established in the NWA area for some time now. I enjoy working with individuals and families to resolve life issues. I have assisted many people with change, reducing stress and to manage their challenges. I establish healthy, supportive, encouraging relationships with those I work with. I accept ages 10 and up. I am credentialed with all major insurances. Please call to initiate a consultation appointment.
I am a Licensed Profession Counselor and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have been established in the NWA area for some time now. I enjoy working with individuals and families to resolve life issues. I have assisted many people with change, reducing stress and to manage their challenges. I establish healthy, supportive, encouraging relationships with those I work with. I accept ages 10 and up. I am credentialed with all major insurances. Please call to initiate a consultation appointment.
(479) 777-4661 View (479) 777-4661
Photo of Kailee Bauman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bentonville, AR
Kailee Bauman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Being a safe place to process feelings is a vital role that we can play in each other's lives. In a world where emotions often go unacknowledged or even dismissed, offering a safe space for someone to express and explore their feelings can be a transformative experience. It requires genuine empathy, active listening, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and emotions can cultivate healing, growth, and resilience. Kailee’s goal is to cultivate this space of safety, nonjudgement, growth, healing, self-acceptance, and above all, hope.
Being a safe place to process feelings is a vital role that we can play in each other's lives. In a world where emotions often go unacknowledged or even dismissed, offering a safe space for someone to express and explore their feelings can be a transformative experience. It requires genuine empathy, active listening, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and emotions can cultivate healing, growth, and resilience. Kailee’s goal is to cultivate this space of safety, nonjudgement, growth, healing, self-acceptance, and above all, hope.
(479) 323-3146 View (479) 323-3146
Photo of Johnna Quinn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Johnna Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
In a world that often demands perfection and criticizes vulnerability, self-compassion is the key to developing a strong sense of self-worth and emotional resilience. Johnna provides a nurturing environment to cultivate self-compassion, helping you develop a gentler and more loving attitude towards yourself. Through self-acceptance and forgiveness, you can let go of self-doubt, restore confidence, and embrace your own unique journey.
In a world that often demands perfection and criticizes vulnerability, self-compassion is the key to developing a strong sense of self-worth and emotional resilience. Johnna provides a nurturing environment to cultivate self-compassion, helping you develop a gentler and more loving attitude towards yourself. Through self-acceptance and forgiveness, you can let go of self-doubt, restore confidence, and embrace your own unique journey.
(479) 349-2752 View (479) 349-2752
Photo of Stephanie Litzinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bentonville, AR
Stephanie Litzinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Stephanie’s great joy is guiding her clients through a process of self-awareness and growth. She has a focus and intention toward supporting those who suffer with trauma through EMDR therapy. Stephanie is also very passionate about her work with couples. She is trained in The Gottman Method, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT). Stephanie also works well with those who are in high pressure careers which has resulted in exhaustion and self-doubt. Thus, she has embraced treatment modalities such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Stephanie’s great joy is guiding her clients through a process of self-awareness and growth. She has a focus and intention toward supporting those who suffer with trauma through EMDR therapy. Stephanie is also very passionate about her work with couples. She is trained in The Gottman Method, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT). Stephanie also works well with those who are in high pressure careers which has resulted in exhaustion and self-doubt. Thus, she has embraced treatment modalities such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
(479) 265-5721 View (479) 265-5721
Photo of Emily Veasey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bentonville, AR
Emily Veasey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I currently have a select few spots and no after-school spots open. I am pleased to join forces with three other quirky neurodivergent women in our small practice! Working with children is where I truly make an impact and enjoy my career most. My interests and experiences are in: trauma processing, neurodiversity, autism, anxiety, depression, adoption and foster care, attachment, behavior and mood dysregulation, stress and panic, and self-esteem. I have lived experience with chronic illness as well.
I currently have a select few spots and no after-school spots open. I am pleased to join forces with three other quirky neurodivergent women in our small practice! Working with children is where I truly make an impact and enjoy my career most. My interests and experiences are in: trauma processing, neurodiversity, autism, anxiety, depression, adoption and foster care, attachment, behavior and mood dysregulation, stress and panic, and self-esteem. I have lived experience with chronic illness as well.
(479) 777-7995 View (479) 777-7995
Photo of Joshua Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Joshua Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Joshua "Josh" Duncan, is a Mental Health & Relationship Therapist, that provides individual and relational therapy services to clients ranging in ages from children, and teenagers to adults. Depression & Anxiety:— Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life
Joshua "Josh" Duncan, is a Mental Health & Relationship Therapist, that provides individual and relational therapy services to clients ranging in ages from children, and teenagers to adults. Depression & Anxiety:— Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life
(479) 269-4219 View (479) 269-4219
Photo of Corretta Woodard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Corretta Woodard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Not accepting new clients
I absolutely love ALL people! My heart is to be a pretty open therapist- treating the whole person, taking into account past experiences and the resulting coping mechanisms when attempting to understand behaviors and treatment needed. Along my journey as a therapist, I have built my clinical toolbox with various formal treatment modalities, but most importantly I have become rooted in LOVE and HOPE. My passion is to partner with you on your journey of discovery, rather, that be for healing or just better insight. I value the journey of change, which I find has to be tailored to needs of those desiring the change.
I absolutely love ALL people! My heart is to be a pretty open therapist- treating the whole person, taking into account past experiences and the resulting coping mechanisms when attempting to understand behaviors and treatment needed. Along my journey as a therapist, I have built my clinical toolbox with various formal treatment modalities, but most importantly I have become rooted in LOVE and HOPE. My passion is to partner with you on your journey of discovery, rather, that be for healing or just better insight. I value the journey of change, which I find has to be tailored to needs of those desiring the change.
(479) 888-4772 View (479) 888-4772
Photo of Deborah Jane Clay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bentonville, AR
Deborah Jane Clay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
There is a certain kind of validation and personal development that comes from authentic and genuine connection with another human. Sometimes, being with friends and family provides the support we need. Often times, we need an individualized safe and caring environment to share our deepest thoughts, feelings, fears, concerns, vulnerabilities, past and present experiences and hopes for the future in order to make changes, learn to be and accept ourselves as we truly want to be.
There is a certain kind of validation and personal development that comes from authentic and genuine connection with another human. Sometimes, being with friends and family provides the support we need. Often times, we need an individualized safe and caring environment to share our deepest thoughts, feelings, fears, concerns, vulnerabilities, past and present experiences and hopes for the future in order to make changes, learn to be and accept ourselves as we truly want to be.
(479) 323-3569 View (479) 323-3569

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bentonville, AR

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Bentonville, AR who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
78% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% Ambetter
46% Blue Cross

How Therapists in Bentonville, AR see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bentonville?

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.