Therapists in Adair County, KY

Photo of Tiffany Priddy - Breath of Grace Wellness, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd , LPCC-S
Breath of Grace Wellness
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd , LPCC-S
Columbia, KY 42728
Breath of Grace Wellness opened with the hope and prayer of providing high quality counseling to those in need. We believe in meeting each client where they are. Counselors and staff at Breath of Grace Wellness, are trained to help you navigate through your journey. Breath of Grace Wellness, is honored and pleased to announce the addition of an LCSW to our team of counselors. The addition of Patrick Burke, LCSW allows us to further meet the needs of our clients, and serve individuals with medicare. Take a breath, considering counseling is a big step. We hope to walk this journey of healing with you.
Breath of Grace Wellness opened with the hope and prayer of providing high quality counseling to those in need. We believe in meeting each client where they are. Counselors and staff at Breath of Grace Wellness, are trained to help you navigate through your journey. Breath of Grace Wellness, is honored and pleased to announce the addition of an LCSW to our team of counselors. The addition of Patrick Burke, LCSW allows us to further meet the needs of our clients, and serve individuals with medicare. Take a breath, considering counseling is a big step. We hope to walk this journey of healing with you.
(270) 253-4226 View (270) 253-4226
Photo of Morgan Mclean - As You Are Therapy Group LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
As You Are Therapy Group LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Columbia, KY 42728
Let’s start with this reminder: You are enough, just as you are. At our practice, the focus isn’t on “fixing” you—you are not broken. Instead, therapy is about self-exploration and giving yourself the tools, skills, and permission to grow into the best version of yourself. Life can be challenging for all of us. Morgan, our Columbia location therapist and owner of the practice, is here to support you through stress, anxiety, depression, and the process of healing. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but there’s no need to prepare. Come as you are, and we’ll meet you there.
Let’s start with this reminder: You are enough, just as you are. At our practice, the focus isn’t on “fixing” you—you are not broken. Instead, therapy is about self-exploration and giving yourself the tools, skills, and permission to grow into the best version of yourself. Life can be challenging for all of us. Morgan, our Columbia location therapist and owner of the practice, is here to support you through stress, anxiety, depression, and the process of healing. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but there’s no need to prepare. Come as you are, and we’ll meet you there.
(270) 778-6280 View (270) 778-6280
Photo of Michaela Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Michaela Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome — I’m really glad you’re here. If you’re navigating anxiety, depression, major life changes, or the impact of a mood or personality disorder, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a warm, grounded space where you can slow down, feel understood, and make sense of what’s weighing on you. My style is collaborative and real: we’ll explore what’s happening in your inner world while building practical skills that help you feel more steady and empowered in daily life. Together, we’ll create a path forward that reflects your strengths, your goals, and the life you want to live.
Welcome — I’m really glad you’re here. If you’re navigating anxiety, depression, major life changes, or the impact of a mood or personality disorder, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a warm, grounded space where you can slow down, feel understood, and make sense of what’s weighing on you. My style is collaborative and real: we’ll explore what’s happening in your inner world while building practical skills that help you feel more steady and empowered in daily life. Together, we’ll create a path forward that reflects your strengths, your goals, and the life you want to live.
(270) 802-4475 View (270) 802-4475
Photo of David Kingsbury, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LCADC, NCC, ICAADC
David Kingsbury
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LCADC, NCC, ICAADC
1 Endorsed
Columbia, KY 42728
Are you looking for someone passionate about helping you overcome obstacles, achieve happiness, or discover your life purpose? Finding my own recovery and faith, along with helping others conquer challenges similar to my own, are major motivators for my personal mission and professional work. I see my career less as a job and more as a calling. My heart is to make a difference in your life and to help you overcome anxiety, depression, and emotional pain. So, really, each encounter is an opportunity, a chance to give back some of what I’ve been given.
Are you looking for someone passionate about helping you overcome obstacles, achieve happiness, or discover your life purpose? Finding my own recovery and faith, along with helping others conquer challenges similar to my own, are major motivators for my personal mission and professional work. I see my career less as a job and more as a calling. My heart is to make a difference in your life and to help you overcome anxiety, depression, and emotional pain. So, really, each encounter is an opportunity, a chance to give back some of what I’ve been given.
(270) 213-6302 View (270) 213-6302
Photo of Cecelia Dawn Bunch - Serenity Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LCADC
Serenity Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LCADC
1 Endorsed
Columbia, KY 42728
We understand that everyone experiences challenges in life and sometimes these challenges make navigating from day to day difficult. This can make coping difficult which leads to the development of unhealthy habits whether that be faulty thinking, overwhelming anxiety, substance abuse, or other behavioral difficulties. We believe that effective treatment, centered around the individuals strengths and needs can provide avenues to overcome these challenges.
We understand that everyone experiences challenges in life and sometimes these challenges make navigating from day to day difficult. This can make coping difficult which leads to the development of unhealthy habits whether that be faulty thinking, overwhelming anxiety, substance abuse, or other behavioral difficulties. We believe that effective treatment, centered around the individuals strengths and needs can provide avenues to overcome these challenges.
(270) 984-8902 View (270) 984-8902
Photo of Courtney McKinney, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, NCC
Courtney McKinney
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Accepting New Clients! Adulting is hard! Being a teenager in today's society is hard! Are you feeling lost, stuck, confused, anxious, stressed? Every stage in life has obstacles and sometimes we all just need a little help. When you decide "this is not how my story ends", you take the first step in overcoming those obstacles. I'm not here to give you a checklist or quick fixes. I'm here to walk beside you as we explore what healing genuinely means for you.
Now Accepting New Clients! Adulting is hard! Being a teenager in today's society is hard! Are you feeling lost, stuck, confused, anxious, stressed? Every stage in life has obstacles and sometimes we all just need a little help. When you decide "this is not how my story ends", you take the first step in overcoming those obstacles. I'm not here to give you a checklist or quick fixes. I'm here to walk beside you as we explore what healing genuinely means for you.
(270) 545-4623 View (270) 545-4623
Photo of Candace Caven, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Candace Caven
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Columbia, KY 42728
If you are seeking a therapist, you have come to the right place. Often times we find ourselves faced with struggles that we are unsure how to maneuver through independently. My name is Candace and I am currently providing services at Abiding Hope Counseling in Greensburg, KY as well as offering telehealth throughout the state of Kentucky. I have been practicing as a clinician since 2015. My goal as a therapist is to help individuals, with compassion and without judgement, find happiness within themselves, gain insight to their stressors, as well as achieve fulfillment in everyday life.
If you are seeking a therapist, you have come to the right place. Often times we find ourselves faced with struggles that we are unsure how to maneuver through independently. My name is Candace and I am currently providing services at Abiding Hope Counseling in Greensburg, KY as well as offering telehealth throughout the state of Kentucky. I have been practicing as a clinician since 2015. My goal as a therapist is to help individuals, with compassion and without judgement, find happiness within themselves, gain insight to their stressors, as well as achieve fulfillment in everyday life.
(270) 569-4312 View (270) 569-4312
Photo of Joy Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Joy Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel weighed down by anxiety, grief, or past trauma? Maybe you’ve faced infertility, miscarriage, or painful losses that others can’t fully understand. Perhaps your child or teen is struggling, maybe with big feelings, behavior, or broken trust, and you long to see them thrive again, feeling safe and connected. Or maybe you find yourself exhausted, stuck in old patterns, and longing for peace, connection, and freedom yourself. You deserve to thrive too. I believe therapy is sacred work, and it would be my honor to walk with you toward healing and joy.
Do you feel weighed down by anxiety, grief, or past trauma? Maybe you’ve faced infertility, miscarriage, or painful losses that others can’t fully understand. Perhaps your child or teen is struggling, maybe with big feelings, behavior, or broken trust, and you long to see them thrive again, feeling safe and connected. Or maybe you find yourself exhausted, stuck in old patterns, and longing for peace, connection, and freedom yourself. You deserve to thrive too. I believe therapy is sacred work, and it would be my honor to walk with you toward healing and joy.
(270) 713-6625 View (270) 713-6625
Photo of Angel Hadley, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Angel Hadley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a mental health and substance use disorder therapist. I obtained a Bachelor’s of Arts in Human services & Mental Health Counseling From Lindsey Wilson College in 2008. I obtained a Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands in 2019. Then obtained my Temporary Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification (TCADC) in 2019. I am certified as a Structured Interview for Psychosis Risk syndrome (SIPS) Assessor. I am also trained in EMDR working on becoming certified.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a mental health and substance use disorder therapist. I obtained a Bachelor’s of Arts in Human services & Mental Health Counseling From Lindsey Wilson College in 2008. I obtained a Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands in 2019. Then obtained my Temporary Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification (TCADC) in 2019. I am certified as a Structured Interview for Psychosis Risk syndrome (SIPS) Assessor. I am also trained in EMDR working on becoming certified.
(270) 518-5447 View (270) 518-5447
Photo of David Smith Ed, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
David Smith Ed
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, my name is Dr. Dave Smith, and I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I entered my profession with a desire to help individuals and families overcome the struggles they face. I specialize in Clinical Mental Health, Addiction & Recovery, Couples and Marriage & Family Therapy. I work with a wide range of clients and demographic groups. I treat anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disorders, ADHD, personality disorder, autism spectrum, addiction, and sexual dysfunction. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Strategic Therapy and Intergenerational Family Therapy
Hi, my name is Dr. Dave Smith, and I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I entered my profession with a desire to help individuals and families overcome the struggles they face. I specialize in Clinical Mental Health, Addiction & Recovery, Couples and Marriage & Family Therapy. I work with a wide range of clients and demographic groups. I treat anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disorders, ADHD, personality disorder, autism spectrum, addiction, and sexual dysfunction. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Strategic Therapy and Intergenerational Family Therapy
(859) 350-7366 View (859) 350-7366
Photo of Megan Harvey, Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, NCC
Megan Harvey
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I want to be able to help anyone that is in need of mental health services. I feel that working with children and adults to help with reduction in symptoms that they are not happy with in their life is my purpose. I am available for LPCA supervision. I enjoy teaching and helping others learn and navigate the field of professional counseling.
I want to be able to help anyone that is in need of mental health services. I feel that working with children and adults to help with reduction in symptoms that they are not happy with in their life is my purpose. I am available for LPCA supervision. I enjoy teaching and helping others learn and navigate the field of professional counseling.
(270) 813-6909 View (270) 813-6909

Online Therapists

Photo of Jill Rodrigues Snyder, Counselor, LPCA, LBDK-12
Jill Rodrigues Snyder
Counselor, LPCA, LBDK-12
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Life happens…and we do our best to get through it. The effects of life’s traumas can linger and cause changes in how we relate to others and ourselves. Finding your voice, drawing boundaries, and making wise decisions without reacting from past trauma are possible. After 15 years as special education teacher and four years working in long-term recovery at the Refuge for Women, I am an LPCA who focuses on trauma and stress – related recovery, chronic health, first responders, and learning and behavior disorders.
Life happens…and we do our best to get through it. The effects of life’s traumas can linger and cause changes in how we relate to others and ourselves. Finding your voice, drawing boundaries, and making wise decisions without reacting from past trauma are possible. After 15 years as special education teacher and four years working in long-term recovery at the Refuge for Women, I am an LPCA who focuses on trauma and stress – related recovery, chronic health, first responders, and learning and behavior disorders.
(502) 628-4052 View (502) 628-4052
Photo of Abbie McGohon, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Abbie McGohon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Online Only
My therapy approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and safety. I work with people who want to establish healthier boundaries, increase their self-worth, and better understand themselves sexually. I am particularly passionate about helping women and individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.
My therapy approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and safety. I work with people who want to establish healthier boundaries, increase their self-worth, and better understand themselves sexually. I am particularly passionate about helping women and individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.
(502) 806-2046 View (502) 806-2046
Photo of Misty Walter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Misty Walter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Louisville, KY 40208
As a counselor, I believe the heart’s complexities are like deep waters—often hidden, intricate, and full of rich potential for growth. My ideal clients are individuals who may feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges, whether they’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating transitions. They seek deeper understanding and healing but may feel stuck, unsure of how to unlock the parts of themselves that are difficult to face. My approach is rooted in empathy and insight. I offer a safe space for clients to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings.
As a counselor, I believe the heart’s complexities are like deep waters—often hidden, intricate, and full of rich potential for growth. My ideal clients are individuals who may feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges, whether they’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating transitions. They seek deeper understanding and healing but may feel stuck, unsure of how to unlock the parts of themselves that are difficult to face. My approach is rooted in empathy and insight. I offer a safe space for clients to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings.
(502) 443-9256 View (502) 443-9256
Photo of William John Hanshaw - William J. Hanshaw, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
William J. Hanshaw, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Bowling Green, KY 42104
I prefer clients who have the courage to risk coming in for an appointment facing the unknown and leaving their session with a sense of self acceptance, performance confidence and some tools with which to better manage their thought, feelings, and behaviors. Regardless of their presenting problems, I want to present a "no judgment zone". I have a sign in the waiting room that states, "I Will Not Should On Myself Today". Demands cause emotional problems while preferences seldom do. A place where active listening makes a difference. I discover many clients return to learn and experience more.
I prefer clients who have the courage to risk coming in for an appointment facing the unknown and leaving their session with a sense of self acceptance, performance confidence and some tools with which to better manage their thought, feelings, and behaviors. Regardless of their presenting problems, I want to present a "no judgment zone". I have a sign in the waiting room that states, "I Will Not Should On Myself Today". Demands cause emotional problems while preferences seldom do. A place where active listening makes a difference. I discover many clients return to learn and experience more.
(270) 216-5529 View (270) 216-5529
Photo of Victoria Ann Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Victoria Ann Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Louisville, KY 40204
I enjoy working with children, teens, and working with the LGBTIA+. I have also worked with addicts at Addiction Recovery Care. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I live with my wife and our five pets. I enjoy kayaking, camping and hiking. I enjoy spending time with my family, as family is an important aspect of my life
I enjoy working with children, teens, and working with the LGBTIA+. I have also worked with addicts at Addiction Recovery Care. I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I live with my wife and our five pets. I enjoy kayaking, camping and hiking. I enjoy spending time with my family, as family is an important aspect of my life
(502) 251-9065 View (502) 251-9065
Photo of Margaretmary Sweeney, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Margaretmary Sweeney
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I am Maggie Sweeney. I grew up poor in Brooklyn, I spent 23 years in the Navy, I have lived all over the world and retired in 2014. I earned my bachelor’s degree in liberal arts in science in 2009 and my MS in Mental Health Counseling in March 2017. My ex was active-duty Army and in July 2017 we got stationed at Fort Knox, KY. I earned my PhD in May 2022 and today I live Elizabethtown, KY. I love learning; I am EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) certified and MRT (Moral Reconnection Therapy) facilitator certified.
I am Maggie Sweeney. I grew up poor in Brooklyn, I spent 23 years in the Navy, I have lived all over the world and retired in 2014. I earned my bachelor’s degree in liberal arts in science in 2009 and my MS in Mental Health Counseling in March 2017. My ex was active-duty Army and in July 2017 we got stationed at Fort Knox, KY. I earned my PhD in May 2022 and today I live Elizabethtown, KY. I love learning; I am EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) certified and MRT (Moral Reconnection Therapy) facilitator certified.
(270) 819-6294 View (270) 819-6294
Photo of Mary Alysia Foster, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, C-PD, NCC
Mary Alysia Foster
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, C-PD, NCC
Richmond, KY 40475
Healing begins with connection—and I believe every person deserves to be heard with compassion and without judgment. Whether you’re working through relationship struggles, navigating identity questions, or facing the complexity of personality disorders, I offer a therapeutic space rooted in safety, honesty, and respect.
Healing begins with connection—and I believe every person deserves to be heard with compassion and without judgment. Whether you’re working through relationship struggles, navigating identity questions, or facing the complexity of personality disorders, I offer a therapeutic space rooted in safety, honesty, and respect.
(859) 295-6089 View (859) 295-6089
Photo of Demetria January, Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, NCC
Demetria January
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, NCC
Louisville, KY 40245
I am a Louisville native and a University of Louisville Alumni. My bachelors degree in Political Science from the University of Louisville in 2017. Then, I received my masters degree in 2020 from Lindsey Wilson College in Human Development, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently a PhD-ABD doctoral student at Capella University in Counselor Education and Supervision.
I am a Louisville native and a University of Louisville Alumni. My bachelors degree in Political Science from the University of Louisville in 2017. Then, I received my masters degree in 2020 from Lindsey Wilson College in Human Development, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently a PhD-ABD doctoral student at Capella University in Counselor Education and Supervision.
(502) 289-6336 View (502) 289-6336
Photo of Karen Eisenmenger, Psychologist
Karen Eisenmenger
Psychologist
Richmond, KY 40475
Hello! I'm Karen, and I love working with a diverse group of clients to help them tackle difficult times in life and grow from their experiences. I believe that therapy should be a comfortable and safe space where you can openly discuss personal issues, such as trauma, without fear of judgment. My approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth. I hold a PhD and am a certified Health Service Professional in Psychology. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with many veterans and civilians dealing with PTSD and childhood trauma.
Hello! I'm Karen, and I love working with a diverse group of clients to help them tackle difficult times in life and grow from their experiences. I believe that therapy should be a comfortable and safe space where you can openly discuss personal issues, such as trauma, without fear of judgment. My approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth. I hold a PhD and am a certified Health Service Professional in Psychology. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with many veterans and civilians dealing with PTSD and childhood trauma.
(859) 448-1031 View (859) 448-1031

See more therapy options for Adair County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Adair County, KY

10+

Average cost per session

$80

Therapists in Adair County, KY who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
91% Coping Skills
82% Depression
82% Grief
73% Anger Management
73% Self Esteem
73% Stress

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
90% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Adair County, KY see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Adair County?

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.