Therapists in Bossier City, LA

Photo of Christopher Heath Sanders - Heath Sanders - Staithe Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Heath Sanders - Staithe Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Staithe Counseling, LLC, “A problem well-stated is a problem half-solved". However, identifying areas of concern is merely the beginning. Other phases include identifying how you will get there and who you will be once you arrive. Change can be challenging and seem impossible at times. I firmly believe that every person has the capacity for personal growth and development once they commit to being open and honest with themselves about what they truly want.
At Staithe Counseling, LLC, “A problem well-stated is a problem half-solved". However, identifying areas of concern is merely the beginning. Other phases include identifying how you will get there and who you will be once you arrive. Change can be challenging and seem impossible at times. I firmly believe that every person has the capacity for personal growth and development once they commit to being open and honest with themselves about what they truly want.
(318) 299-1456 View (318) 299-1456
Photo of Treece Nasser, MS, PLPC
Treece Nasser
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71112
I discovered at a young age that I love talking with and getting to know others. It became a kind of mission to figure out what other people were passionate about and what they had going on in their lives. I realized that having a genuine connection with someone you can trust can be incredibly beneficial. This is the type of environment I hope to create in our sessions. Really and truly my goal is to work along side of you, as you create meaningful change in your life.
I discovered at a young age that I love talking with and getting to know others. It became a kind of mission to figure out what other people were passionate about and what they had going on in their lives. I realized that having a genuine connection with someone you can trust can be incredibly beneficial. This is the type of environment I hope to create in our sessions. Really and truly my goal is to work along side of you, as you create meaningful change in your life.
(318) 252-8494 View (318) 252-8494
Photo of Nicole A Sweet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nicole A Sweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in mental health. I believe everyone deserves to live a life that feels good and true to themselves. I am passionate about empowering women who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and stress, helping them build self-awareness, resilience, and a greater sense of well-being. My goal is to create a supportive space where growth and healing can thrive.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in mental health. I believe everyone deserves to live a life that feels good and true to themselves. I am passionate about empowering women who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and stress, helping them build self-awareness, resilience, and a greater sense of well-being. My goal is to create a supportive space where growth and healing can thrive.
(318) 661-8804 View (318) 661-8804
Photo of Toni Ann Sheppard - Bossier Mental and Sexual Health Development, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, CST, NCC, CCTP
Bossier Mental and Sexual Health Development
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, CST, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71111
AASECT CERTIFIED SEX Therapist Sex, Intimacy & Sexuality related concerns can feel like the most uncomfortable and misunderstood areas of a couple/ person's life. All too often shame and guilt regarding our sexual lives can creep in and further deter us from seeking help. You are in the right place. Using a Sex Positive approach to desire, connection and relationship I can help with a broad spectrum of Sexual health & Development needs. We can collaborate on those “Hard to talk about issues”, explore how to prioritize pleasure and decipher Sexual dynamics that may be rooted in past or present wounds. Together we can address-
AASECT CERTIFIED SEX Therapist Sex, Intimacy & Sexuality related concerns can feel like the most uncomfortable and misunderstood areas of a couple/ person's life. All too often shame and guilt regarding our sexual lives can creep in and further deter us from seeking help. You are in the right place. Using a Sex Positive approach to desire, connection and relationship I can help with a broad spectrum of Sexual health & Development needs. We can collaborate on those “Hard to talk about issues”, explore how to prioritize pleasure and decipher Sexual dynamics that may be rooted in past or present wounds. Together we can address-
(318) 301-3479 View (318) 301-3479
Photo of Stacie Hildebrand, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Stacie Hildebrand
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71111
I help couples learn to communicate better, fight in a healthy & effective way, and become better friends and partners. My signature program is a 9-step roadmap to improve your friendship, conflict resolution skills, and connection to become a team. Part of the process is a strength-based assessment that helps identify the strengths and areas that need improvement. I believe improving your primary relationship will have positive ripple effects for the rest of your life. For more information, please visit my website: www.CounselingConnectionsLA.com. I am currently accepting Self-pay clients. FB page: Stacie Hildebrand Coaching
I help couples learn to communicate better, fight in a healthy & effective way, and become better friends and partners. My signature program is a 9-step roadmap to improve your friendship, conflict resolution skills, and connection to become a team. Part of the process is a strength-based assessment that helps identify the strengths and areas that need improvement. I believe improving your primary relationship will have positive ripple effects for the rest of your life. For more information, please visit my website: www.CounselingConnectionsLA.com. I am currently accepting Self-pay clients. FB page: Stacie Hildebrand Coaching
(318) 552-2349 View (318) 552-2349
Photo of LaSheka Shine (Lds Consulting Therapist DevelopmentLLC), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, -BACS, MAC, CTHP
LaSheka Shine (Lds Consulting Therapist DevelopmentLLC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, -BACS, MAC, CTHP
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71112
Mrs LaSheka Shine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Board Approved Supervisor (LCSW-BACS) and Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) with an office located in Bossier City, Louisiana. She works with children, adults, individuals and families using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. Change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths & realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. LaSheka provides an environment of compassion, support to help clients overcome obstacles to move forward &thrive. She has the right to decline/terminate service at anytime.
Mrs LaSheka Shine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Board Approved Supervisor (LCSW-BACS) and Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) with an office located in Bossier City, Louisiana. She works with children, adults, individuals and families using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. Change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths & realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. LaSheka provides an environment of compassion, support to help clients overcome obstacles to move forward &thrive. She has the right to decline/terminate service at anytime.
(318) 252-8594 View (318) 252-8594
Photo of John Bundrick, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
John Bundrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71111
Not accepting new clients
The decision to seek help is an act of enormous courage. The suffering that emerges from struggles with mental health and substance use issues, problem gambling, and life-altering events can leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost, and alone. As your therapist, I am here to provide compassion and understanding as you embark on the sometimes painful but inevitably rewarding road to recovery and wellness. Therapy includes periods of progress and set-backs and the road is often not clear. I believe in the power of therapy as a catalyst for self-discovery, reconnection, and change.
The decision to seek help is an act of enormous courage. The suffering that emerges from struggles with mental health and substance use issues, problem gambling, and life-altering events can leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost, and alone. As your therapist, I am here to provide compassion and understanding as you embark on the sometimes painful but inevitably rewarding road to recovery and wellness. Therapy includes periods of progress and set-backs and the road is often not clear. I believe in the power of therapy as a catalyst for self-discovery, reconnection, and change.
(318) 495-8910 View (318) 495-8910
Photo of Jill May- Life Journey Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jill May- Life Journey Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Book your first appointment with me at our website: www.ljwellnessla.com. Does your child have emotional or behavioral issues? Are you a parent struggling to understand how to better relate to your child, adolescent, or teen? You are not alone! I can help your child learn healthy strategies for coping with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, poor grades, and peer relationships. You don't have to feel hopeless about parenting any longer. As a mother and a therapist, I have over 12 years of experience helping children and young adults gain the tools they need in order to live healthy and happy lives.
Book your first appointment with me at our website: www.ljwellnessla.com. Does your child have emotional or behavioral issues? Are you a parent struggling to understand how to better relate to your child, adolescent, or teen? You are not alone! I can help your child learn healthy strategies for coping with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, poor grades, and peer relationships. You don't have to feel hopeless about parenting any longer. As a mother and a therapist, I have over 12 years of experience helping children and young adults gain the tools they need in order to live healthy and happy lives.
(318) 228-2769 View (318) 228-2769
Photo of Priscilla Broussard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Priscilla Broussard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Book your first appointment at www.ljwellnessla.com. Are you struggling to make sense of the changes you are currently facing? Maybe you've lost an important relationship or a loved one? Have you been turning to food or substances to cope? When working with you, I will take an individualized approach that takes into consideration your beliefs and values. I work to meet my clients where they are in their healing process, while respecting and supporting them. I can provide you the space you need to process your pain and also teach you skills to help move through your process gracefully.
Book your first appointment at www.ljwellnessla.com. Are you struggling to make sense of the changes you are currently facing? Maybe you've lost an important relationship or a loved one? Have you been turning to food or substances to cope? When working with you, I will take an individualized approach that takes into consideration your beliefs and values. I work to meet my clients where they are in their healing process, while respecting and supporting them. I can provide you the space you need to process your pain and also teach you skills to help move through your process gracefully.
(318) 257-6313 View (318) 257-6313
Photo of Glenzetta Walker Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Glenzetta Walker Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I see counseling as a process in which you and I having come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I approach counseling from a cognitive behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored in order to better understand the clients' problems and to develop solutions. I work with clients in a variety of formats, including individually, as couples and as families. I also conduct group therapy.
I see counseling as a process in which you and I having come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I approach counseling from a cognitive behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored in order to better understand the clients' problems and to develop solutions. I work with clients in a variety of formats, including individually, as couples and as families. I also conduct group therapy.
(318) 787-0339 View (318) 787-0339
Photo of Amanda Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-, BACS
Amanda Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-, BACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Next Generation, therapy is provided by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). We are flexible in our availability as well as in the approach used to provide services. We understand that "sit and talk therapy" is not effective for everyone. Clients are met where they are by being provided services in a way that is comfortable for them. Let's work together to end generational curses by making the necessary changes today!
At Next Generation, therapy is provided by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). We are flexible in our availability as well as in the approach used to provide services. We understand that "sit and talk therapy" is not effective for everyone. Clients are met where they are by being provided services in a way that is comfortable for them. Let's work together to end generational curses by making the necessary changes today!
(318) 353-8136 View (318) 353-8136
Photo of Jonette Peretik, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Jonette Peretik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71111
Welcome! I’m Jonette Peretik, MS, LPC, NCC, and I’m here to help you build stronger, more fulfilling relationships—with yourself and others. At Compassion and Grace Counseling, I provide a supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to heal from past wounds, navigate life’s challenges, and develop deeper emotional connections. I specialize in attachment-focused therapy, DBT techniques, and trauma-informed care, helping clients break patterns of guilt, shame, and disconnection. Together, we’ll create a path toward healing and lasting change.
Welcome! I’m Jonette Peretik, MS, LPC, NCC, and I’m here to help you build stronger, more fulfilling relationships—with yourself and others. At Compassion and Grace Counseling, I provide a supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to heal from past wounds, navigate life’s challenges, and develop deeper emotional connections. I specialize in attachment-focused therapy, DBT techniques, and trauma-informed care, helping clients break patterns of guilt, shame, and disconnection. Together, we’ll create a path toward healing and lasting change.
(318) 524-8399 View (318) 524-8399
Photo of Michelle Byrd, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LAC
Michelle Byrd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LAC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71112
The most important things in life are not things they are our relationships. First is our relationship with ourself.  Are you struggling with grief, addiction, anxiety, depression, job problems, love addictions, parenting issues, sex problems?  Are you wanting better communications & more intimacy? Maybe your past has left you feeling insecure, shamed, resentful, or angry. Is this an old pattern or a new situation that you're facing?
The most important things in life are not things they are our relationships. First is our relationship with ourself.  Are you struggling with grief, addiction, anxiety, depression, job problems, love addictions, parenting issues, sex problems?  Are you wanting better communications & more intimacy? Maybe your past has left you feeling insecure, shamed, resentful, or angry. Is this an old pattern or a new situation that you're facing?
(318) 239-5137 View (318) 239-5137
Photo of Sarah Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Sarah Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71112
As a therapist at Restoring Light Counseling, my goal is to listen intently and without judgment. My hope is that I can walk alongside you and help facilitate your process of self-discovery and self-acceptance. My passion is to work with adults who are facing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationship issues, spiritual abuse and trauma.
As a therapist at Restoring Light Counseling, my goal is to listen intently and without judgment. My hope is that I can walk alongside you and help facilitate your process of self-discovery and self-acceptance. My passion is to work with adults who are facing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationship issues, spiritual abuse and trauma.
(318) 480-8146 View (318) 480-8146
Photo of Melissa Vallia, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Melissa Vallia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71111
My goal in counseling is to meet my clients where they are and help them move to where they want to be in life. Change can be scary to even think about, much less make happen in your own life. Please allow me to walk alongside you as you navigate these positive changes in your life.
My goal in counseling is to meet my clients where they are and help them move to where they want to be in life. Change can be scary to even think about, much less make happen in your own life. Please allow me to walk alongside you as you navigate these positive changes in your life.
(318) 594-5483 View (318) 594-5483
Photo of Amanda Veuleman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LAC, CCS
Amanda Veuleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LAC, CCS
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71112
I facilitate sessions focusing on understanding, providing an environment of acceptance, warmth, and respect that helps guide clients through a process of self-awareness, growth, and change. I have extensive experience working with addiction and all of the underlying issues and with individuals and families with trauma related issues. My work in substance abuse has granted me the opportunity to work with a diverse group of clients suffering from stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grief. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and I encourage clients to communicate openly about what works best for them.
I facilitate sessions focusing on understanding, providing an environment of acceptance, warmth, and respect that helps guide clients through a process of self-awareness, growth, and change. I have extensive experience working with addiction and all of the underlying issues and with individuals and families with trauma related issues. My work in substance abuse has granted me the opportunity to work with a diverse group of clients suffering from stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grief. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and I encourage clients to communicate openly about what works best for them.
(318) 386-4968 View (318) 386-4968
Photo of Lisa P Stevenson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lisa P Stevenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71112
My approach to counseling is to build a trusting, working partnership with my clients to assist and support them in identifying problems and obstacles which negatively impact emotional, relational, and functional wellbeing and to find effective, practical strategies for improving quality of life. I will collaborate with you to develop an individual, and personalized plan, consistent with your values and goals, and using research-based methods to assist you in achieving long-term, positive changes. In order to do this I draw from my experiences working with adolescents and adults with a wide variety of issues and experiences.
My approach to counseling is to build a trusting, working partnership with my clients to assist and support them in identifying problems and obstacles which negatively impact emotional, relational, and functional wellbeing and to find effective, practical strategies for improving quality of life. I will collaborate with you to develop an individual, and personalized plan, consistent with your values and goals, and using research-based methods to assist you in achieving long-term, positive changes. In order to do this I draw from my experiences working with adolescents and adults with a wide variety of issues and experiences.
(318) 367-0304 View (318) 367-0304
Photo of Heather Kleckinger-Craven, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Heather Kleckinger-Craven
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71111
Waitlist for new clients
Not Accepting New Clients- Something has to change….that is why you have decided it’s time for counseling. Whether it’s figuring out how to change your thinking or make life changes, counseling is the place to find clarity, insight, and the courage to start making those changes. Whether you are struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, or want to change behaviors that sabotage your success, we can collaborate and work to create a life you want to show up for everyday.
Not Accepting New Clients- Something has to change….that is why you have decided it’s time for counseling. Whether it’s figuring out how to change your thinking or make life changes, counseling is the place to find clarity, insight, and the courage to start making those changes. Whether you are struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, or want to change behaviors that sabotage your success, we can collaborate and work to create a life you want to show up for everyday.
(318) 768-8416 View (318) 768-8416
Photo of Lauren Jones Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lauren Jones Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bossier City, LA 71111
Waitlist for new clients
As a counselor, I believe in the power of compassion and understanding, while also valuing the importance of being direct and honest. In my practice, empathy, kindness, and straightforwardness intersect to create a safe and supportive space for your personal growth. Whether you're seeking guidance for overcoming challenges or simply looking to deepen your self-awareness, my counseling sessions are designed to empower you on your journey towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
As a counselor, I believe in the power of compassion and understanding, while also valuing the importance of being direct and honest. In my practice, empathy, kindness, and straightforwardness intersect to create a safe and supportive space for your personal growth. Whether you're seeking guidance for overcoming challenges or simply looking to deepen your self-awareness, my counseling sessions are designed to empower you on your journey towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(318) 515-0367 View (318) 515-0367
Photo of Eiyana Middleton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Eiyana Middleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello there! I provide services for an array of various areas such as for individuals who are faced with identity crises or for those in need of emotional support; episodes of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, anger management and impulse control, unresolved childhood trauma for adults (sexual, emotional or physicial abuse) experiences. I provide an open and realistic view of therapeutic outcomes for my clients. I look forward to your call or email to see if I would best accommodate your needs. Clients have the flexibilty to be seen weekly, biweekly or monthly. Services are also offered on a sliding scale as needed.
Hello there! I provide services for an array of various areas such as for individuals who are faced with identity crises or for those in need of emotional support; episodes of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, anger management and impulse control, unresolved childhood trauma for adults (sexual, emotional or physicial abuse) experiences. I provide an open and realistic view of therapeutic outcomes for my clients. I look forward to your call or email to see if I would best accommodate your needs. Clients have the flexibilty to be seen weekly, biweekly or monthly. Services are also offered on a sliding scale as needed.
(318) 889-3201 View (318) 889-3201
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bossier City, LA

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Bossier City, LA who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
80% Relationship Issues
80% Coping Skills
80% Stress
79% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Bossier City, LA see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bossier City?

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.