Therapists in Lakewood, OH

Photo of Meghan Ritter, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Meghan Ritter
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adults, children, and adolescents with adjustment related issues, depression, anxiety, trauma and ADHD. I believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment for clients that are seeking guidance and support through a holistic, strengths based approach. My approach to therapy is eclectic, I use dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family system and client-centered interventions to assist my clients. I often use humor in my therapy and firmly believe laughter is the best medicine. Together we will set goals and work to achieve them in a comfortable setting.
I enjoy working with adults, children, and adolescents with adjustment related issues, depression, anxiety, trauma and ADHD. I believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment for clients that are seeking guidance and support through a holistic, strengths based approach. My approach to therapy is eclectic, I use dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family system and client-centered interventions to assist my clients. I often use humor in my therapy and firmly believe laughter is the best medicine. Together we will set goals and work to achieve them in a comfortable setting.
(216) 243-5924 View (216) 243-5924
Photo of Mary Kay Shelton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Mary Kay Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I recognize how challenging it can be to step into the process of healing and change and I work to meet you wherever you may be emotionally, mentally, and physically. I strive to make the therapy process feel safe and approachable. I use compassion, humor, empowerment, and curiosity to create a supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you. We will work together in navigating barriers and challenges and mapping out the next steps that are best for you in your journey. I have a calm and relatable style and prioritize developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
I recognize how challenging it can be to step into the process of healing and change and I work to meet you wherever you may be emotionally, mentally, and physically. I strive to make the therapy process feel safe and approachable. I use compassion, humor, empowerment, and curiosity to create a supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you. We will work together in navigating barriers and challenges and mapping out the next steps that are best for you in your journey. I have a calm and relatable style and prioritize developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
(216) 284-3620 View (216) 284-3620
Photo of Lenore Heller, Psychologist in Lakewood, OH
Lenore Heller
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I have been practicing in Lakewood for over 17 years. Prior to that, I was in New York, where I was Assistant Dean of psychology at Adelphi University in addition to my private practice . My style is both supportive and interactive. I will work with you to help you to understand yourself and to identify your life goals.
I have been practicing in Lakewood for over 17 years. Prior to that, I was in New York, where I was Assistant Dean of psychology at Adelphi University in addition to my private practice . My style is both supportive and interactive. I will work with you to help you to understand yourself and to identify your life goals.
(216) 772-1364 View (216) 772-1364
Photo of Brye Roth, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Brye Roth
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Not accepting new clients
I have found my approach works best with clients who possess a strong sense of self curiosity and a desire to look deeply within themselves. Along with areas of specialty listed below, I also explore inner challenges often stemming from emotional instability in childhood, like harsh self criticism, perfectionism, lack of self trust, and issues with control. I believe our past can be key to understanding how we experience our life presently. I enjoy working with other therapists as well. Additionally, I offer supervision towards clinical licensure for LPCs, and case consultation focused in psychodynamic theory.
I have found my approach works best with clients who possess a strong sense of self curiosity and a desire to look deeply within themselves. Along with areas of specialty listed below, I also explore inner challenges often stemming from emotional instability in childhood, like harsh self criticism, perfectionism, lack of self trust, and issues with control. I believe our past can be key to understanding how we experience our life presently. I enjoy working with other therapists as well. Additionally, I offer supervision towards clinical licensure for LPCs, and case consultation focused in psychodynamic theory.
(216) 616-5985 View (216) 616-5985
Photo of Michael Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Michael Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
What you think is what you say. What you say is what you do. What you do continually becomes your habit. Your habits create your character; your character determines your destiny (Jeremy Anderson). Michael Wilson is a compassionate connector skilled in the art of therapy over his six years of experience aiding clients in achieving their mental health goals. To Michael, trust is crucial to the healing process. To that end, he approaches each session with a genuine and empathic desire to connect. When you're in session with Michael, you have his undivided attention. Bridging the gap between individuals and social change is his core.
What you think is what you say. What you say is what you do. What you do continually becomes your habit. Your habits create your character; your character determines your destiny (Jeremy Anderson). Michael Wilson is a compassionate connector skilled in the art of therapy over his six years of experience aiding clients in achieving their mental health goals. To Michael, trust is crucial to the healing process. To that end, he approaches each session with a genuine and empathic desire to connect. When you're in session with Michael, you have his undivided attention. Bridging the gap between individuals and social change is his core.
(216) 616-5279 View (216) 616-5279
Photo of Megan Berg Donnelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Megan Berg Donnelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
(216) 284-6049 View (216) 284-6049
Photo of Theo Eiben, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Theo Eiben
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I believe clients hold answers within yet often feel they have lost touch with themselves. I strive to provide a safe and validating space for clients allowing them to discover intuitive answers to incorporate into a purposeful and fulfilling life. Gestalt therapy is one of my approaches which emphasizes existing wholly in the here and now. Throughout this process you can access and integrate fragmented traits generating deeper connection with yourself and others.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I believe clients hold answers within yet often feel they have lost touch with themselves. I strive to provide a safe and validating space for clients allowing them to discover intuitive answers to incorporate into a purposeful and fulfilling life. Gestalt therapy is one of my approaches which emphasizes existing wholly in the here and now. Throughout this process you can access and integrate fragmented traits generating deeper connection with yourself and others.
(562) 740-8583 View (562) 740-8583
Photo of Sara Ridley Counseling Practice, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Sara Ridley Counseling Practice, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
I believe in taking a client-centered & solution-focused approach to help you address the issues that bring you to counseling & to help you explore aspects of your life that need either resolution or changes. My goal is to create a relaxed & comfortable atmosphere to work toward a reduction of symptoms & positive changes. Clients find me to be personable, understanding, non-judgmental, & welcoming. I enjoy the time I spend working with clients & hope that my clients find the time valuable as well. Please contact me with questions & if you would like to start working together.
I believe in taking a client-centered & solution-focused approach to help you address the issues that bring you to counseling & to help you explore aspects of your life that need either resolution or changes. My goal is to create a relaxed & comfortable atmosphere to work toward a reduction of symptoms & positive changes. Clients find me to be personable, understanding, non-judgmental, & welcoming. I enjoy the time I spend working with clients & hope that my clients find the time valuable as well. Please contact me with questions & if you would like to start working together.
(440) 363-7088 View (440) 363-7088
Photo of Olivia Armand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Olivia Armand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I want to empower you to be the absolute best version of yourself. My work is holistic and client focused, meaning you are in charge and I am here to support you in finding ultimate mental and emotional wellness by connecting the mind with body. I use a variety of approaches that allow for you to strengthen your inner self throughout the entire therapeutic experience. These approaches are eclectic, as I get to know you and the problem area(s) I will incorporate modalities and interventions that are most suited to treating the unique individual that you are.
I want to empower you to be the absolute best version of yourself. My work is holistic and client focused, meaning you are in charge and I am here to support you in finding ultimate mental and emotional wellness by connecting the mind with body. I use a variety of approaches that allow for you to strengthen your inner self throughout the entire therapeutic experience. These approaches are eclectic, as I get to know you and the problem area(s) I will incorporate modalities and interventions that are most suited to treating the unique individual that you are.
(216) 306-4865 View (216) 306-4865
Photo of Katie Manilla, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Katie Manilla
Counselor, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
While navigating through life's many ups and downs, I believe it is important to support one another and create a genuine connection with my clients to develop positive coping skills and a compassionate approach. I am interested in supporting young clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, managing stress and life transitions. I strive to create a non-judgmental environment which fosters a goal centered outcome. I also specialize in child therapy to improve struggles children may be experiencing in school or at home including classroom behavior and peer relationships.
While navigating through life's many ups and downs, I believe it is important to support one another and create a genuine connection with my clients to develop positive coping skills and a compassionate approach. I am interested in supporting young clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, managing stress and life transitions. I strive to create a non-judgmental environment which fosters a goal centered outcome. I also specialize in child therapy to improve struggles children may be experiencing in school or at home including classroom behavior and peer relationships.
(216) 820-9258 View (216) 820-9258
Photo of Samantha Chadwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Samantha Chadwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Change what you can, manage what you can't (Raymond McCauley). Samantha is a compassionate helper who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout her three years of experience in mental health. She passionately believes that every person is unique and requires a unique approach. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder, Samantha provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Samantha is a connector, focusing on helping as many people as she can while reducing mental health stigma and driving for change.
Change what you can, manage what you can't (Raymond McCauley). Samantha is a compassionate helper who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout her three years of experience in mental health. She passionately believes that every person is unique and requires a unique approach. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder, Samantha provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Samantha is a connector, focusing on helping as many people as she can while reducing mental health stigma and driving for change.
(216) 284-5283 View (216) 284-5283
Photo of Ranada Cooper, Psychologist in Lakewood, OH
Ranada Cooper
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with home or work-related stressors? Are you experiencing difficulty with understanding your child and his/her behaviors at school or home? Do you have questions about why your teen is experiencing difficulty in school? My mission to provide comprehensive mental health services to assist children, youth, and adults in managing their symptoms more effectively and living a more productive life.
Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with home or work-related stressors? Are you experiencing difficulty with understanding your child and his/her behaviors at school or home? Do you have questions about why your teen is experiencing difficulty in school? My mission to provide comprehensive mental health services to assist children, youth, and adults in managing their symptoms more effectively and living a more productive life.
(216) 238-3622 View (216) 238-3622
Photo of Rebecca White, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Rebecca White
Counselor, MS, EdS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
As far as anyone knows, your life is great. Enviable, even. But deep down, you know the truth: You’re not sure you like your life anymore, or yourself for that matter. Your career, relationships, and the world bring out parts of you that just take over, and you’re not sure how you would define yourself without labels like “driven,” "successful,” “in control,” or “super Mom/Dad.” You’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, resentful, stuck, and unsure about how your work, your life, and your relationships can be sustained in their current state. There is always something to do and someone else to take care of.
As far as anyone knows, your life is great. Enviable, even. But deep down, you know the truth: You’re not sure you like your life anymore, or yourself for that matter. Your career, relationships, and the world bring out parts of you that just take over, and you’re not sure how you would define yourself without labels like “driven,” "successful,” “in control,” or “super Mom/Dad.” You’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, resentful, stuck, and unsure about how your work, your life, and your relationships can be sustained in their current state. There is always something to do and someone else to take care of.
(216) 369-6805 View (216) 369-6805
Photo of Whitney Britenbucher, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Whitney Britenbucher
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Whitney is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and Art Therapist in Northeast Ohio. Whitney has enjoyed over 10 years of experience working with a broad variety of clients and strives to empower each individual in her care to become the best version of themselves. She treats children, teens, adults, and families, and specializes in providing affirming care for LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. In 2006, Whitney earned her Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Kent State University, and in 2010 she graduated from Ursuline College with her Master's degree in Counseling and Art Therapy.
Whitney is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and Art Therapist in Northeast Ohio. Whitney has enjoyed over 10 years of experience working with a broad variety of clients and strives to empower each individual in her care to become the best version of themselves. She treats children, teens, adults, and families, and specializes in providing affirming care for LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. In 2006, Whitney earned her Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Kent State University, and in 2010 she graduated from Ursuline College with her Master's degree in Counseling and Art Therapy.
(216) 677-3687 View (216) 677-3687
Photo of Amy Dillon Cody, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Amy Dillon Cody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
My clients are seeking to level up in their sense of self awareness, being more connected with the present and coping better than ever before. I support them to build resilience, resolve impact of trauma, and find more calm in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you through your deepest struggles, whether that's a new form of stress or a lifetime of challenges. I empower my Clients to find their inner voice, increase confidence, and embrace the possibility of being resilient.
My clients are seeking to level up in their sense of self awareness, being more connected with the present and coping better than ever before. I support them to build resilience, resolve impact of trauma, and find more calm in their lives. My goal as a therapist is to support you through your deepest struggles, whether that's a new form of stress or a lifetime of challenges. I empower my Clients to find their inner voice, increase confidence, and embrace the possibility of being resilient.
(216) 279-5820 View (216) 279-5820
Photo of Cristian Shofar, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Cristian Shofar
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Waitlist for new clients
*******I am currently fully booked but willing to add individuals to my waitlist for openings as they become available******** I look forward to working with you towards achieving goals and overall improved mental health. My goal is to provide a safe, secure, non-judgmental place so that we can to take the steps needed to get us where you'd like to be.
*******I am currently fully booked but willing to add individuals to my waitlist for openings as they become available******** I look forward to working with you towards achieving goals and overall improved mental health. My goal is to provide a safe, secure, non-judgmental place so that we can to take the steps needed to get us where you'd like to be.
(440) 332-0596 View (440) 332-0596
Photo of Melanie Shmois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Melanie Shmois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Weight , MSSA, LISW-S, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Hello, I am Melanie Shmois, MSSA, LISW-S, Certified Life & Weight Loss Coach, Shadow Integration Master. I am a personal coach & therapist for high-performers who are at the top of their game professionally and also want to excel in their personal lives. I use transformation coaching tools to facilitate change.
Hello, I am Melanie Shmois, MSSA, LISW-S, Certified Life & Weight Loss Coach, Shadow Integration Master. I am a personal coach & therapist for high-performers who are at the top of their game professionally and also want to excel in their personal lives. I use transformation coaching tools to facilitate change.
(216) 223-8990 View (216) 223-8990
Photo of Lauren Walters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Lauren Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Lauren Walters is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about providing a safe and supportive environment for her clients to explore their concerns, set goals, and work toward improved mental and emotional well-being. Lauren specializes in anxiety, coping skills development, and trauma. Lauren completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Case Western Reserve University. Her professional experiences enable her to provide active listening, empathy, and compassion to her clients.
Lauren Walters is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about providing a safe and supportive environment for her clients to explore their concerns, set goals, and work toward improved mental and emotional well-being. Lauren specializes in anxiety, coping skills development, and trauma. Lauren completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Case Western Reserve University. Her professional experiences enable her to provide active listening, empathy, and compassion to her clients.
(216) 279-0720 View (216) 279-0720
Photo of Recreating Dawn - Trauma Recovery & Art Therapy, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Recreating Dawn - Trauma Recovery & Art Therapy
Counselor, LPCC, ATR-BC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Perhaps you are realizing that old "stuff" is lingering in your life - and you really want to make lasting changes? Perhaps symptoms of Depression & Anxiety are running the show? Are recent events are affecting you or your child deeply? We get to help folks cope with life's challenges, like loss, stress, relational problems, and traumatic events. We're in this together. As Trauma Specialists and Art Therapists and EMDR therapists (some providers) we're poised to help you sort out your feelings and experiences in difficult times. (Joy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist.)
Perhaps you are realizing that old "stuff" is lingering in your life - and you really want to make lasting changes? Perhaps symptoms of Depression & Anxiety are running the show? Are recent events are affecting you or your child deeply? We get to help folks cope with life's challenges, like loss, stress, relational problems, and traumatic events. We're in this together. As Trauma Specialists and Art Therapists and EMDR therapists (some providers) we're poised to help you sort out your feelings and experiences in difficult times. (Joy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist.)
(216) 868-7039 View (216) 868-7039
Photo of Olivia Jones, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Olivia Jones
Counselor, LPCC, AT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
I am enthusiastic and passionate about helping others find unique and creative solutions to problems. I believe in the ability to utilize art and craft as a way of both coping with and processing these challenges and traumas, along side traditional talk therapy. I am supportive of lifestyles outside of the "normative" culture, and see the beauty in these differences. Understanding the way our personal core values interact with the values of the world around us gives us the opportunity to feel safe and secure in our decisions and actions.
I am enthusiastic and passionate about helping others find unique and creative solutions to problems. I believe in the ability to utilize art and craft as a way of both coping with and processing these challenges and traumas, along side traditional talk therapy. I am supportive of lifestyles outside of the "normative" culture, and see the beauty in these differences. Understanding the way our personal core values interact with the values of the world around us gives us the opportunity to feel safe and secure in our decisions and actions.
(216) 284-1810 View (216) 284-1810

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lakewood, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$132

Therapists in Lakewood, OH who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
94% Depression
85% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
80% Coping Skills
79% Stress
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Medical Mutual
86% Aetna
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Lakewood, OH see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lakewood?

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.