Therapists in Frederick, MD

Photo of Buffy Kamnikar - Olive & Oak Wellness , Counselor, LCPC
Olive & Oak Wellness
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704
Life can feel really overwhelming sometimes. Maybe you haven’t felt like yourself lately, or you’re more stressed and anxious than usual. The pressures of work, school, relationships, & life changes can weigh on us. If you’re feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward, therapy can provide a safe space to explore options and gain knowledge. My approach is warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental, with the aim to help clients feel seen and heard.
Life can feel really overwhelming sometimes. Maybe you haven’t felt like yourself lately, or you’re more stressed and anxious than usual. The pressures of work, school, relationships, & life changes can weigh on us. If you’re feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward, therapy can provide a safe space to explore options and gain knowledge. My approach is warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental, with the aim to help clients feel seen and heard.
(301) 288-1276 View (301) 288-1276
Photo of Kaitlin Kennedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Kaitlin Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Not accepting new clients
Childhood and adolescence can present a unique set of challenges for many young people. Having worked in several settings, including inpatient hospitalization and residential treatment, as well as private and public schools, I have many years of experience in helping children and teens to find their voice, overcome obstacles and flourish into healthy, strong adults. I believe that a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental relationship combined with evidenced based practices can provide a strong foundation for change and healing.
Childhood and adolescence can present a unique set of challenges for many young people. Having worked in several settings, including inpatient hospitalization and residential treatment, as well as private and public schools, I have many years of experience in helping children and teens to find their voice, overcome obstacles and flourish into healthy, strong adults. I believe that a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental relationship combined with evidenced based practices can provide a strong foundation for change and healing.
(301) 329-6077 x804 View (301) 329-6077 x804
Photo of Yesenia Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Yesenia Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life’s storms can seem isolating, but you don't have to navigate them alone. Together, we will look at patterns/themes and past events that are causing distress, as well as, barriers that keep you feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and confidential environment to help nurture personal growth, self-awareness, and resilience. As your therapist, I take a collaborative approach offering support that helps facilitate growth in insight about yourself and tools that can help bring about positive change in your own life.
Life’s storms can seem isolating, but you don't have to navigate them alone. Together, we will look at patterns/themes and past events that are causing distress, as well as, barriers that keep you feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and confidential environment to help nurture personal growth, self-awareness, and resilience. As your therapist, I take a collaborative approach offering support that helps facilitate growth in insight about yourself and tools that can help bring about positive change in your own life.
(240) 290-6681 View (240) 290-6681
Photo of Tina M Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Tina M Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Tina Allen is a licensed clinical social worker with 26 years of clinical experience in leadership, counseling and assisting men, women and children impacted by mental health, trauma and addiction. In the past, Tina has served as the lead supervisor at a well known outpatient behavioral health agency in WDC for the development and implementation of an innovative co-occurring disorder research project funded by the West family and partnered with Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center where she worked within a team to help over 100 consumers tackle and deal with their addiction and improve their mental health symptoms.
Tina Allen is a licensed clinical social worker with 26 years of clinical experience in leadership, counseling and assisting men, women and children impacted by mental health, trauma and addiction. In the past, Tina has served as the lead supervisor at a well known outpatient behavioral health agency in WDC for the development and implementation of an innovative co-occurring disorder research project funded by the West family and partnered with Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center where she worked within a team to help over 100 consumers tackle and deal with their addiction and improve their mental health symptoms.
(240) 635-8392 View (240) 635-8392
Photo of Iwona Gerner, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, FBM, MS
Iwona Gerner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, FBM, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Is your life taking a path you have not expected and it's hard for you to cope? Are you trying to be strong on the outside, but inside you feel like you are falling apart? YES, life changes can become challenges... life crisis that can leave you feeling confused, depressed, anxious, angry and just "not yourself". You don't have to go through this alone... I am here to support you on your journey to feel strong and hopeful again, to understand and manage your emotions, to communicate your needs to others and regain control over your life.
Is your life taking a path you have not expected and it's hard for you to cope? Are you trying to be strong on the outside, but inside you feel like you are falling apart? YES, life changes can become challenges... life crisis that can leave you feeling confused, depressed, anxious, angry and just "not yourself". You don't have to go through this alone... I am here to support you on your journey to feel strong and hopeful again, to understand and manage your emotions, to communicate your needs to others and regain control over your life.
(240) 422-8811 View (240) 422-8811
Photo of Selima Jumarali, Psychological Associate, PhD
Selima Jumarali
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704
Hi, I’m Selima Jumarali, a queer, Indo-Caribbean, Muslim femme of color with a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Maryland. I offer a compassionate, interactive space where we explore your identity—whether that’s racial, gender, sexual, or religious—and help you thrive in a world that often feels oppressive for those with multiple marginalized identities. I specialize in helping clients cope with trauma, chronic illness, grief, and self-compassion. I can support you in gaining control and acceptance over your emotions, understanding what they’re signaling, and quieting your inner critic.
Hi, I’m Selima Jumarali, a queer, Indo-Caribbean, Muslim femme of color with a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Maryland. I offer a compassionate, interactive space where we explore your identity—whether that’s racial, gender, sexual, or religious—and help you thrive in a world that often feels oppressive for those with multiple marginalized identities. I specialize in helping clients cope with trauma, chronic illness, grief, and self-compassion. I can support you in gaining control and acceptance over your emotions, understanding what they’re signaling, and quieting your inner critic.
(240) 852-1345 View (240) 852-1345
Photo of Adrienne Reyes-Pena, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Adrienne Reyes-Pena
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Hi there! I'm Dr. Adrienne Reyes-Peña, and I'm glad you are here. As a bilingual (English/Spanish) postdoctoral fellow and a registered psychological associate, I'm dedicated to crafting a warm and inclusive space where you can thrive. My journey began with a doctoral degree (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP), Washington, D.C., and I honed my skills during a transformative predoctoral internship at WVU Medicine: University Healthcare.
Hi there! I'm Dr. Adrienne Reyes-Peña, and I'm glad you are here. As a bilingual (English/Spanish) postdoctoral fellow and a registered psychological associate, I'm dedicated to crafting a warm and inclusive space where you can thrive. My journey began with a doctoral degree (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP), Washington, D.C., and I honed my skills during a transformative predoctoral internship at WVU Medicine: University Healthcare.
(240) 269-2110 View (240) 269-2110
Photo of Katelyn Erbacher, Counselor, LCPC
Katelyn Erbacher
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My current availability is early weekends. My experience is primarily working with adults with ADHD and/or trauma. I love to help clients with ADHD build systems to help them meet the challenges of their executive dysfunction head on. As a person with ADHD myself, I understand the unique challenge of feeling like you're fighting against your brain to make things happen. I have also trained in providing EMDR therapy to help reprocess traumatic experiences and negative thoughts. Trauma means different things to different people, but whatever it means to you is valid.
My current availability is early weekends. My experience is primarily working with adults with ADHD and/or trauma. I love to help clients with ADHD build systems to help them meet the challenges of their executive dysfunction head on. As a person with ADHD myself, I understand the unique challenge of feeling like you're fighting against your brain to make things happen. I have also trained in providing EMDR therapy to help reprocess traumatic experiences and negative thoughts. Trauma means different things to different people, but whatever it means to you is valid.
(240) 255-9382 View (240) 255-9382
Photo of Devon O Pearrell - Peace of Mind Therapeutic Services & Solutions , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Peace of Mind Therapeutic Services & Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703
My journey in social work has been driven by a steadfast commitment to fostering positive change and providing compassionate support to those in need. I am eager to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people I work with. I am dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and supported. I believe each individual is the expert of their own life, with unique strengths, insights, and the capacity for growth. My role is to accompany the client on their journey, offering guidance, empathy, and tools to help reach their goals.
My journey in social work has been driven by a steadfast commitment to fostering positive change and providing compassionate support to those in need. I am eager to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people I work with. I am dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and supported. I believe each individual is the expert of their own life, with unique strengths, insights, and the capacity for growth. My role is to accompany the client on their journey, offering guidance, empathy, and tools to help reach their goals.
(240) 985-8582 View (240) 985-8582
Photo of Alyssia King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Alyssia, King, LMSW
Alyssia King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Alyssia, King, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Adrienne Maree Brown wrote, “Everything we attempt, everything we do, is either growing up as its roots go deeper, or it’s decomposing, leaving its lessons in the soil for the next attempt.” Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially during big transitions or when it’s hard to find your voice in difficult situations. Whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, reaching out for support is a courageous step toward growth. I’m here to provide a calm, patient presence as we work through issues like anxiety, ADHD, school struggles, self-esteem, or recovering from an abusive relationship.
Adrienne Maree Brown wrote, “Everything we attempt, everything we do, is either growing up as its roots go deeper, or it’s decomposing, leaving its lessons in the soil for the next attempt.” Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially during big transitions or when it’s hard to find your voice in difficult situations. Whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, reaching out for support is a courageous step toward growth. I’m here to provide a calm, patient presence as we work through issues like anxiety, ADHD, school struggles, self-esteem, or recovering from an abusive relationship.
(301) 507-1959 View (301) 507-1959
Photo of Aaron T Heaton, Psychologist, PsyD
Aaron T Heaton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Aaron is a licensed psychologist. He and his daughters have moved from sunny Southern California to the community of Frederick with the intent to again practice in close community. He graduated with degrees in both Psychology and Biblical Literature from Azusa Pacific University, earned advanced degrees in psychology and clinical psychology from Marymount University and the American School of Professional Psychology, and has pursued advanced training in applied behavioral analysis, a modality well-suited to the treatment of children and adolescents.
Aaron is a licensed psychologist. He and his daughters have moved from sunny Southern California to the community of Frederick with the intent to again practice in close community. He graduated with degrees in both Psychology and Biblical Literature from Azusa Pacific University, earned advanced degrees in psychology and clinical psychology from Marymount University and the American School of Professional Psychology, and has pursued advanced training in applied behavioral analysis, a modality well-suited to the treatment of children and adolescents.
(301) 327-2805 View (301) 327-2805
Photo of Anna Mills, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Anna Mills
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
My ideal client is willing to participate in a journey of learning and self-discovery. They may be struggling with some aspect of their life, mental illness, family/social conflict, or may want to know themselves better. The ultimate goal would fit their vision for their best self and sense of happiness.
My ideal client is willing to participate in a journey of learning and self-discovery. They may be struggling with some aspect of their life, mental illness, family/social conflict, or may want to know themselves better. The ultimate goal would fit their vision for their best self and sense of happiness.
(240) 641-0777 View (240) 641-0777
Photo of Olivia McGirr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Olivia McGirr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Each and every one of us has learned how to survive in a complex set of circumstances. It is my job to help my clients decide which of those survival skills are still helpful, and which ones served them as a child, and now hurt them in their adult or young adult life. I believe that everyone already has everything within them to heal, and I enjoy challenging clients to see that for themselves. I have years of experience working with adults, children, groups, and families. I specialize in working with complex trauma, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, grief, attachment, anxiety, and depression.
Each and every one of us has learned how to survive in a complex set of circumstances. It is my job to help my clients decide which of those survival skills are still helpful, and which ones served them as a child, and now hurt them in their adult or young adult life. I believe that everyone already has everything within them to heal, and I enjoy challenging clients to see that for themselves. I have years of experience working with adults, children, groups, and families. I specialize in working with complex trauma, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, grief, attachment, anxiety, and depression.
(240) 624-2823 View (240) 624-2823
Photo of Erin Goff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Erin Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Are you looking for ways to understand your emotions and cope with stress levels? Perhaps, you are wanting to learn ways of setting boundaries with family members or are facing big life changes. I am here to listen as you share those stressors and learn ways to manage them. It is always my hope that you leave therapy better equipped to handle whatever life may throw at you. It does not matter what brings you to therapy, I welcome you and I am glad you are here.
Are you looking for ways to understand your emotions and cope with stress levels? Perhaps, you are wanting to learn ways of setting boundaries with family members or are facing big life changes. I am here to listen as you share those stressors and learn ways to manage them. It is always my hope that you leave therapy better equipped to handle whatever life may throw at you. It does not matter what brings you to therapy, I welcome you and I am glad you are here.
(301) 381-5222 View (301) 381-5222
Photo of Stephanie Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Stephanie Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I use a relational, client-centered, neuroaffirming approach to care for people experiencing overwhelm, depression or other mood issues, burnout, anger, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, difficulty related with neurodiversity, substance use, etc.
I use a relational, client-centered, neuroaffirming approach to care for people experiencing overwhelm, depression or other mood issues, burnout, anger, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, difficulty related with neurodiversity, substance use, etc.
(240) 213-1722 View (240) 213-1722
Photo of Laura Zukowski, Counselor, LCPC
Laura Zukowski
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
With over fifteen years of experience, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges. My work with teenagers and adults has taught me the importance of creating a safe, compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. I use a person-centered approach, which means I prioritize building a trusting and respectful relationship with each person I work with. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, tailoring my methods to best suit your unique needs and goals.
With over fifteen years of experience, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges. My work with teenagers and adults has taught me the importance of creating a safe, compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. I use a person-centered approach, which means I prioritize building a trusting and respectful relationship with each person I work with. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, tailoring my methods to best suit your unique needs and goals.
(240) 220-9893 View (240) 220-9893
Photo of Betty Silon, Psychologist, PhD
Betty Silon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I seek to empower each client's unique movement towards emotional and physical well-being, mindfulness, wholeness and spiritual awareness. Through encouragement, compassion and mutual respect this co-creative therapeutic process enhances each person's self-esteem, potential and growth. Together we will explore possibilities and new directions, thereby releasing stress, inner conflicts, dis-ease, self-defeating cognitions and dysfunctional relationships. Embracing change leads to feelings of joy, aliveness and at the same time peacefulness and calm.
I seek to empower each client's unique movement towards emotional and physical well-being, mindfulness, wholeness and spiritual awareness. Through encouragement, compassion and mutual respect this co-creative therapeutic process enhances each person's self-esteem, potential and growth. Together we will explore possibilities and new directions, thereby releasing stress, inner conflicts, dis-ease, self-defeating cognitions and dysfunctional relationships. Embracing change leads to feelings of joy, aliveness and at the same time peacefulness and calm.
(301) 531-5950 View (301) 531-5950
Photo of Kathryn Omerso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Kathryn Omerso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands? You don’t have to face it alone. As a dedicated therapist, I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges and discover your inner strength. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, I specialize in building self-confidence, conquering fears, and overcoming obstacles.
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands? You don’t have to face it alone. As a dedicated therapist, I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges and discover your inner strength. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, I specialize in building self-confidence, conquering fears, and overcoming obstacles.
(240) 802-8967 x2 View (240) 802-8967 x2
Photo of Joey Sheffield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Joey Sheffield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Are you consumed with disturbing automatic thoughts, and spending hours chasing, analyzing, reviewing, and giving meaning to the intrusive thoughts? As someone that’s been in your shoes, there is hope and recovery to overcome OCD. I will teach you how to change your relationship with anxiety by looking it in the face and walking towards it instead of walking away. It is easy to stay trapped and believe the false messages that your OCD feeds you. I will teach you how to rewire your brain into no longer believing those false threats that your brain is torturing you with. My treatment approach teaches you how to stop competing
Are you consumed with disturbing automatic thoughts, and spending hours chasing, analyzing, reviewing, and giving meaning to the intrusive thoughts? As someone that’s been in your shoes, there is hope and recovery to overcome OCD. I will teach you how to change your relationship with anxiety by looking it in the face and walking towards it instead of walking away. It is easy to stay trapped and believe the false messages that your OCD feeds you. I will teach you how to rewire your brain into no longer believing those false threats that your brain is torturing you with. My treatment approach teaches you how to stop competing
(240) 363-9651 View (240) 363-9651
Photo of Lonna Soward, Counselor, MS, LCPC
Lonna Soward
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Life Challenges... Emotional Pain... Hopelessness... Anger... Fear... Sadness... Rejection... These emotions can take us on a difficult journey, disrupting our daily lives and well-being. Are you searching for someone to help you process overwhelming feelings? Are you struggling to set boundaries or give yourself permission to prioritize your needs? Do you feel lonely after constantly pouring into others who don’t pour into you? Are you seeking solutions to build a happier, more fulfilling life? Perhaps you’re finding it hard to focus on or set meaningful goals because past traumas keep you feeling stuck.
Life Challenges... Emotional Pain... Hopelessness... Anger... Fear... Sadness... Rejection... These emotions can take us on a difficult journey, disrupting our daily lives and well-being. Are you searching for someone to help you process overwhelming feelings? Are you struggling to set boundaries or give yourself permission to prioritize your needs? Do you feel lonely after constantly pouring into others who don’t pour into you? Are you seeking solutions to build a happier, more fulfilling life? Perhaps you’re finding it hard to focus on or set meaningful goals because past traumas keep you feeling stuck.
(240) 209-9565 View (240) 209-9565
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Frederick, MD

600+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Frederick, MD who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
72% Stress
70% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% CareFirst
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Frederick, MD see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
16% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Frederick?

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.