Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
Alonia Slappy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (Online Only)
Are you navigating the stress of life transitions or grappling with anxiety? You're seeking a therapist who understands your unique needs and supports your journey to emotional well-being. Your goal is clear: to find practical solutions and guidance for a happier, more fulfilling life. Together, we'll work to achieve the positive changes you desire.
Are you navigating the stress of life transitions or grappling with anxiety? You're seeking a therapist who understands your unique needs and supports your journey to emotional well-being. Your goal is clear: to find practical solutions and guidance for a happier, more fulfilling life. Together, we'll work to achieve the positive changes you desire.
Shannon Berncic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
Ventura Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I strive to encourage a self-driven sense of wellness with all individuals I work with. Since 2015 I have worked with individuals coming from an array of backgrounds, challenges, circumstances, and stories. Having worked with professionals from diverse specialties (psychological, psychiatric, medical, occupational, nursing) I like to take a collaborative and eclectic approach to mental health and therapy. Regardless of a person's background it is possible to achieve relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, and relational challenges
I strive to encourage a self-driven sense of wellness with all individuals I work with. Since 2015 I have worked with individuals coming from an array of backgrounds, challenges, circumstances, and stories. Having worked with professionals from diverse specialties (psychological, psychiatric, medical, occupational, nursing) I like to take a collaborative and eclectic approach to mental health and therapy. Regardless of a person's background it is possible to achieve relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, and relational challenges
Stephanie Souza
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I commend you for taking the first step in exploring a therapist in the Pittsburgh area. My approach to counseling is grounded in empathy, compassion, and trust. I want our time together to be a collaborative process built on respect, understanding, non-judgment, and genuineness. There are points in everyone’s lives that may become unmanageable due to transitions, conflicts or a realization that may require the assistance of a therapist to help the client navigate forward in their journey. Counseling can be a valuable resource with lifelong tools to resolve past and present issues in people’s lives. I extend this invitation to you.
I commend you for taking the first step in exploring a therapist in the Pittsburgh area. My approach to counseling is grounded in empathy, compassion, and trust. I want our time together to be a collaborative process built on respect, understanding, non-judgment, and genuineness. There are points in everyone’s lives that may become unmanageable due to transitions, conflicts or a realization that may require the assistance of a therapist to help the client navigate forward in their journey. Counseling can be a valuable resource with lifelong tools to resolve past and present issues in people’s lives. I extend this invitation to you.
Frank Bienkowski at True to You Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Beginning in January 2024, my valued colleague, Jennifer Huffman and I are launching a combined practice that will be known as True to You. Each of us brings 20+ years of experience in the helping professions into this new venture. Both Jennifer and I have a background in addictions treatment, working together at Gateway Rehabilitation Center for 8 years. In the past decade we have both expanded our focus into other areas of therapeutic work. A common thread of purpose in our work has been to assist our clients in actively living from a more authentic sense of themselves. We hope to help you along on your path to being true to you.
Beginning in January 2024, my valued colleague, Jennifer Huffman and I are launching a combined practice that will be known as True to You. Each of us brings 20+ years of experience in the helping professions into this new venture. Both Jennifer and I have a background in addictions treatment, working together at Gateway Rehabilitation Center for 8 years. In the past decade we have both expanded our focus into other areas of therapeutic work. A common thread of purpose in our work has been to assist our clients in actively living from a more authentic sense of themselves. We hope to help you along on your path to being true to you.
Amy Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
In the therapeutic setting, I use an eclectic approach by blending a person-centered spirit with cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused techniques. The goal is to provide a safe space where you can explore, address, accept, and talk through life’s challenges. When we seek to, “Live life on life’s terms,” that can get complicated. It is my belief everyone needs a place to process their specific difficulties. I have a team mindset and by being part of your "WE," I can lend the professional support needed to begin the work of personal development and change. Let's find solutions for better stress management and good mental health.
In the therapeutic setting, I use an eclectic approach by blending a person-centered spirit with cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused techniques. The goal is to provide a safe space where you can explore, address, accept, and talk through life’s challenges. When we seek to, “Live life on life’s terms,” that can get complicated. It is my belief everyone needs a place to process their specific difficulties. I have a team mindset and by being part of your "WE," I can lend the professional support needed to begin the work of personal development and change. Let's find solutions for better stress management and good mental health.
Erwin K Levin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (Online Only)
I have been in private practice for the past approximately 25 years working primarily with adults, both individually and in couples. Although I have considerable experience with what may be described as more serious anxiety and depressive disorders, my practice more typically has consisted of individuals/couples interested in working on quality of life, relationship and general adjustment issues.
I have been in private practice for the past approximately 25 years working primarily with adults, both individually and in couples. Although I have considerable experience with what may be described as more serious anxiety and depressive disorders, my practice more typically has consisted of individuals/couples interested in working on quality of life, relationship and general adjustment issues.
Mariellen Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I am here to help you. Having worked many years in the schools my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help clients learn new ways to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive-behavioral approach and include art, play, & music therapy to help clients learn coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques used to manage the challenges of ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce/separation, moving, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
I am here to help you. Having worked many years in the schools my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help clients learn new ways to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive-behavioral approach and include art, play, & music therapy to help clients learn coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques used to manage the challenges of ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce/separation, moving, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
Madison Rice
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Are you feeling overwhelmed or depressed recently? Do you need someone who actually listens to your problems? I am a therapist who specializes in working with young adults who are feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or just want someone to process their thoughts with. I believe therapy is for everyone! I pride myself on being an empathetic and responsive listener in session. If you chose me as your therapist you can expect the vibes to be casual and for you to be the main focus. I help clients feel heard, respected, and valued. I work collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or depressed recently? Do you need someone who actually listens to your problems? I am a therapist who specializes in working with young adults who are feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or just want someone to process their thoughts with. I believe therapy is for everyone! I pride myself on being an empathetic and responsive listener in session. If you chose me as your therapist you can expect the vibes to be casual and for you to be the main focus. I help clients feel heard, respected, and valued. I work collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their goals.
Kimberly Kiesling
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
It is not easy to take the first step to ask for help! My approach begins by listening and learning about you, because I believe that you are the expert on your own journey. I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes. Sometimes you just need to be empowered through compassionate support. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and respectful space for your therapeutic process.
It is not easy to take the first step to ask for help! My approach begins by listening and learning about you, because I believe that you are the expert on your own journey. I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes. Sometimes you just need to be empowered through compassionate support. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and respectful space for your therapeutic process.
Curtis A Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The ideal Client for this therapeutic modality may range in age from 8- 40's. This Client may be experiencing concerns around mental health concerns. This Client can present with symptoms that range with in the DSMV. This Client may be experiencing grief and loss, trauma, depression, self image, drug and alcohol abuse, substance abuse, anxiety, and motivation.
The ideal Client for this therapeutic modality may range in age from 8- 40's. This Client may be experiencing concerns around mental health concerns. This Client can present with symptoms that range with in the DSMV. This Client may be experiencing grief and loss, trauma, depression, self image, drug and alcohol abuse, substance abuse, anxiety, and motivation.
15 Second Videos
Alonia Slappy
Madison Rice
Rosa Ellenberger
Rachel Buffo
Rahmah Albugami
Travis W Schermer
Tanja Soto
Maddison Fyffe
Amanda Talak
Valiant Minds Counseling, LLC / Valerie McIntyre
Allison Borrasso- Evolve Counseling & Consulting
Lily VanDyk
Natalie McCormick
Danielle Turk
Intentional Simplicity LLC
Amanda Ludwig -Becoming Whole Counseling Consulting
Sara Troupe
Leah Gatto
Loving Me Solutions
Sable Arend
Carolyn Weimer
Leigh Montgomery
Amy Gamble-Moore
Lei Wang
Douglas Puchko
Cody McConnell
Alexander Noel
Kristen Watt at Pittsburgh Art Therapy Studio LLC
Courtney Orlowski (Previously Frist)
Tracey S. McCarthy
Liz Chaney
Amy K. Bucciere
Alaina Schrader
Rachael Dittmar
Kaitlyn Bonham
Audrey Miller
Diana Lynne Shaban
Erin Kilpatrick
Casey McFarland
Abbie Quinby
Kim Saft
Emily Zeller
Stanton Marlan
Norman Philosophical Consulting
Alex Catozella
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
The Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh
Gabrielle Blawas
Elizabeth A Turak
Rachael D Goss
Heather Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, I strive to collaborate with my clients to create an environment that offers the support and safety necessary to explore life’s complexity. It is my belief that in order to meaningfully move through the our challenges, we first must understand ourselves and how we got here. I work with individuals and couples dealing with a wide variety a challenges, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, identity issues, difficult transitions, self-esteem, relationship issues, self-harm and substance abuse.
As a therapist, I strive to collaborate with my clients to create an environment that offers the support and safety necessary to explore life’s complexity. It is my belief that in order to meaningfully move through the our challenges, we first must understand ourselves and how we got here. I work with individuals and couples dealing with a wide variety a challenges, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, identity issues, difficult transitions, self-esteem, relationship issues, self-harm and substance abuse.
Chad Losinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
It can be overwhelming to try and to deal with the stress of everyday life while carrying the weight of unresolved stress. In time, that stress can cause us our perspectives towards others and how we feel about our lives to change. This is typically when people seek treatment to work through that stuck feeling, to pursue more meaningful lives that aren't weighed down by stress or their experiences. I work to create a calm, accepting atmosphere so that clients can more easily speak their experiences into existence and let go of the stress that keeps them stuck.
It can be overwhelming to try and to deal with the stress of everyday life while carrying the weight of unresolved stress. In time, that stress can cause us our perspectives towards others and how we feel about our lives to change. This is typically when people seek treatment to work through that stuck feeling, to pursue more meaningful lives that aren't weighed down by stress or their experiences. I work to create a calm, accepting atmosphere so that clients can more easily speak their experiences into existence and let go of the stress that keeps them stuck.
Rosa Ellenberger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Accepting new clients! You feel like you have had your power and your voice taken away for your entire life. You are exhausted from not being seen as a human first. You are about to explode from so many years of hiding who you are, who you love, and what is pissing you off. You are ready to step into your power, but you have no idea how to start. Or maybe you do, but you need someone supporting you as you navigate all of the complex, heavy sh!t that is about to unfold. I want you to know that I see beyond your struggles and past choices. I want to empower you to embrace your entire self (yes, your ENTIRE self). You can do that here.
Accepting new clients! You feel like you have had your power and your voice taken away for your entire life. You are exhausted from not being seen as a human first. You are about to explode from so many years of hiding who you are, who you love, and what is pissing you off. You are ready to step into your power, but you have no idea how to start. Or maybe you do, but you need someone supporting you as you navigate all of the complex, heavy sh!t that is about to unfold. I want you to know that I see beyond your struggles and past choices. I want to empower you to embrace your entire self (yes, your ENTIRE self). You can do that here.
Andrea Avecilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
“Don’t go through life, grow through life.” -Eric Butterworth. Are you going through life struggling with something? I'm here to help you grow through it. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where the goal is to continue growing while life changes. In this process, I encourage you to work hard alongside me. I want to help you improve and discover new ways of thinking and being and ultimately reach your goals. I have an eclectic therapeutic perspective with a heavy influence of eco-systemic structural family therapy. I am also certified in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
“Don’t go through life, grow through life.” -Eric Butterworth. Are you going through life struggling with something? I'm here to help you grow through it. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where the goal is to continue growing while life changes. In this process, I encourage you to work hard alongside me. I want to help you improve and discover new ways of thinking and being and ultimately reach your goals. I have an eclectic therapeutic perspective with a heavy influence of eco-systemic structural family therapy. I am also certified in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Amy Stoddard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I love working with individuals and groups who have experienced relationship or systems-based trauma, whether in childhood or adulthood. This can include physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, financial, spiritual, or systemic traumas and may be the result of abusive relationships or living as a marginalized individual in an inadequate and even harmful system. I believe that the "symptoms" associated with trauma don't occur because there is "something wrong with you." Rather, I believe that they are evidence of your body and mind's inherent wisdom and ability to establish safety and sovereignty over your own life.
I love working with individuals and groups who have experienced relationship or systems-based trauma, whether in childhood or adulthood. This can include physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, financial, spiritual, or systemic traumas and may be the result of abusive relationships or living as a marginalized individual in an inadequate and even harmful system. I believe that the "symptoms" associated with trauma don't occur because there is "something wrong with you." Rather, I believe that they are evidence of your body and mind's inherent wisdom and ability to establish safety and sovereignty over your own life.
Rachel Kramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I focus to help you reduce anxiety, increase coping, improve communication, and help you align your values with your life. I work to help people become more in tune with themselves and their body to gain awareness you need to live the life you want to live. One of my strongest beliefs about a client/therapist relationship is a therapeutic alliance. I will work with you to develop a relationship of trust so we can work together to help you achieve your passions in life. I tend to work in the moment with you to explore maladaptive patterns and help you transform old patterns into ways of being that will overall work better for you.
I focus to help you reduce anxiety, increase coping, improve communication, and help you align your values with your life. I work to help people become more in tune with themselves and their body to gain awareness you need to live the life you want to live. One of my strongest beliefs about a client/therapist relationship is a therapeutic alliance. I will work with you to develop a relationship of trust so we can work together to help you achieve your passions in life. I tend to work in the moment with you to explore maladaptive patterns and help you transform old patterns into ways of being that will overall work better for you.
Tessa McArdle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Tess is a Licensed Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work from The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice. Since 2016, Tess has worked closely with youth and families in a range of school settings, from elementary through college. Through this work, Tess has developed a passion for working with children, youth, and young adults. Tess understands mental health as the exploration and uncovering of one’s true self. She believes engaging authentically with others to explore one’s internal world and to identify and heal one’s wounds can be a liberatory, and at times, a radical act.
Tess is a Licensed Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work from The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice. Since 2016, Tess has worked closely with youth and families in a range of school settings, from elementary through college. Through this work, Tess has developed a passion for working with children, youth, and young adults. Tess understands mental health as the exploration and uncovering of one’s true self. She believes engaging authentically with others to explore one’s internal world and to identify and heal one’s wounds can be a liberatory, and at times, a radical act.
Faith Niemcewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Do you need support in stress management, life transitions, trauma, depression/anxiety, developing effective coping strategies, etc? Do you want to feel more "free" emotionally, mentally, & physically, wanting to improve your life for yourself and possible future relationships/children/family? My ideal client is motivated to engage in treatment and reach their goals of becoming more psychologically flexible and strengthening their connections with themselves and those meaningful relationships around them.
Do you need support in stress management, life transitions, trauma, depression/anxiety, developing effective coping strategies, etc? Do you want to feel more "free" emotionally, mentally, & physically, wanting to improve your life for yourself and possible future relationships/children/family? My ideal client is motivated to engage in treatment and reach their goals of becoming more psychologically flexible and strengthening their connections with themselves and those meaningful relationships around them.
Holly Ellis Eisenbrandt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Not accepting new clients
Life presents challenges in various forms. The method by which we face these challenges can determine our well being. I believe my clients already possess the strength to face those difficulties. Together we will explore your individual struggles, and empower you to use your unique strengths towards a healthier and happier life. Therapy is a rewarding experience and a growth tool by which you may become self actualized, improve self esteem and enhance your personal relationships.
Life presents challenges in various forms. The method by which we face these challenges can determine our well being. I believe my clients already possess the strength to face those difficulties. Together we will explore your individual struggles, and empower you to use your unique strengths towards a healthier and happier life. Therapy is a rewarding experience and a growth tool by which you may become self actualized, improve self esteem and enhance your personal relationships.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
77% | Self Esteem |
71% | Relationship Issues |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Coping Skills |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Highmark |
74% | Aetna |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Pittsburgh?
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
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.
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.
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.