Therapists in Saint Michael, MN

Matt Stiehm
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD, MA, MS
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Hello - My name is Matt, and I am transitioning from a career in the criminal justice field. With that I have 23 years of experience working in the CJ industry. I understand the nuances of work, and how it impacts one's family. I am looking to help those in CJ fields (corrections/law enforcement) process and deal with any and all mental health issues, to include relationship problems, stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. If you are looking for a safe environment to come talk with someone about mental health issues, and receive appropriate trained services please consider contacting me, and utilizing my services.
Hello - My name is Matt, and I am transitioning from a career in the criminal justice field. With that I have 23 years of experience working in the CJ industry. I understand the nuances of work, and how it impacts one's family. I am looking to help those in CJ fields (corrections/law enforcement) process and deal with any and all mental health issues, to include relationship problems, stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. If you are looking for a safe environment to come talk with someone about mental health issues, and receive appropriate trained services please consider contacting me, and utilizing my services.
(763) 363-2137 View (763) 363-2137
Photo of Dan Schmoyer, Counselor, MEd, MA, LSC, LPCC
Dan Schmoyer
Counselor, MEd, MA, LSC, LPCC
6 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
(763) 280-7963 View (763) 280-7963
Photo of Mark Schmoyer, Counselor, MS, LPCC
Mark Schmoyer
Counselor, MS, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers as they navigate life's transitions. It's my goal to establish a genuine relationship so that you feel validated and respected and our time together is centered on coming alongside of you to create meaningful change. For those having thoughts of death or dying, it can be extremely distressing and I want to align with you to determine the best path forwards to manage and decrease those thoughts. I also value the role of faith in pursuing healing and strive to incorporate faith based conversations and interventions to assist you in your goals.
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers as they navigate life's transitions. It's my goal to establish a genuine relationship so that you feel validated and respected and our time together is centered on coming alongside of you to create meaningful change. For those having thoughts of death or dying, it can be extremely distressing and I want to align with you to determine the best path forwards to manage and decrease those thoughts. I also value the role of faith in pursuing healing and strive to incorporate faith based conversations and interventions to assist you in your goals.
(763) 325-8591 View (763) 325-8591
Photo of Barbara Nyhammer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Barbara Nyhammer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
Do you feel alone in your marriage or family? Are you contemplating separation, divorce and/or remarriage? I would like to come along side you and understand your challenges and empower you to make life altering choices in your personal life to facilitate healing and wholeness. By using our faith as the foundation of accepting who we are and where we are at in our lives, we can come to understand our purpose and work with the gifts that God bestowed upon us to grow and to learn to love ourselves.
Do you feel alone in your marriage or family? Are you contemplating separation, divorce and/or remarriage? I would like to come along side you and understand your challenges and empower you to make life altering choices in your personal life to facilitate healing and wholeness. By using our faith as the foundation of accepting who we are and where we are at in our lives, we can come to understand our purpose and work with the gifts that God bestowed upon us to grow and to learn to love ourselves.
(763) 634-1970 View (763) 634-1970
Photo of Carin Snell, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Carin Snell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Current Openings Available. I have experience working with clients facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life stressors. Additionally, I support couples experiencing communication difficulties, as I believe that many marital conflicts can be resolved through the development of effective communication skills. I take pleasure in collaborating with clients to identify the most suitable strategies for overcoming their challenges.
Current Openings Available. I have experience working with clients facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and life stressors. Additionally, I support couples experiencing communication difficulties, as I believe that many marital conflicts can be resolved through the development of effective communication skills. I take pleasure in collaborating with clients to identify the most suitable strategies for overcoming their challenges.
(763) 314-4753 View (763) 314-4753
Photo of Erica Creighton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Erica Creighton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Online Only
Life is a journey filled with transitions. Each twist and turn can bring challenges - anxiety, trauma, and uncertainty. In these moments, finding the right support is crucial. With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in guiding adults through these transformative phases of life. I blend the wisdom of science and neurology with spiritual and somatic practice. This holistic approach addresses not just the mind, but the body and spirit as well.
Life is a journey filled with transitions. Each twist and turn can bring challenges - anxiety, trauma, and uncertainty. In these moments, finding the right support is crucial. With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in guiding adults through these transformative phases of life. I blend the wisdom of science and neurology with spiritual and somatic practice. This holistic approach addresses not just the mind, but the body and spirit as well.
(320) 313-9086 View (320) 313-9086
Photo of Samantha Reiling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LAC, LADC
Samantha Reiling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LAC, LADC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Feel like the chaos and mess of life is too much right now and you are needing some extra space to work through that? Feeling like you haven't been yourself lately? Are you a highly driven person, that wants to work through the crap in life? Break out of that shell, bust down those walls, and discover your unique path to peace, one step at a time. Imagine a space where you feel truly heard, supported, and understood on your journey towards finding yourself. Therapy will help you discover your inner peace with a therapist who can bring giggles, perspective, and spunk into the therapy session while working on your goals.
Feel like the chaos and mess of life is too much right now and you are needing some extra space to work through that? Feeling like you haven't been yourself lately? Are you a highly driven person, that wants to work through the crap in life? Break out of that shell, bust down those walls, and discover your unique path to peace, one step at a time. Imagine a space where you feel truly heard, supported, and understood on your journey towards finding yourself. Therapy will help you discover your inner peace with a therapist who can bring giggles, perspective, and spunk into the therapy session while working on your goals.
(701) 937-4089 View (701) 937-4089
Photo of Whitney McElhone, Counselor, MS, LPCC
Whitney McElhone
Counselor, MS, LPCC
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate Openings! Therapy for Women Experiencing Relationship Trauma & Abuse: If you’ve experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, or other interpersonal trauma, your body and nervous system may still feel caught in survival mode. You might notice anxiety, hypervigilance, numbness, shame, or a sense of disconnection. I help women with: • Domestic violence, emotional abuse, and coercive control • Sexual assault and unwanted sexual experiences • Trauma bonding, shame, and self-blame. You do not need to have all the words, details, or answers to begin therapy—only a desire for something to feel different.
Immediate Openings! Therapy for Women Experiencing Relationship Trauma & Abuse: If you’ve experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, or other interpersonal trauma, your body and nervous system may still feel caught in survival mode. You might notice anxiety, hypervigilance, numbness, shame, or a sense of disconnection. I help women with: • Domestic violence, emotional abuse, and coercive control • Sexual assault and unwanted sexual experiences • Trauma bonding, shame, and self-blame. You do not need to have all the words, details, or answers to begin therapy—only a desire for something to feel different.
(763) 251-9580 View (763) 251-9580
Photo of Brett Nikula, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Brett Nikula
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
Healing hard relationships is both my passion and a privilege. No one taught you the skills you need to have a successful relationship, and it can be challenging to find support when it feels too personal to go to friends or family. Seeking professional help is the best option, and I am ready to help you heal the hurt you have experienced in your relationships. You know you need, and want more out of your relationship, and it's not too late. At Pivotal Approach Therapy, I have specialized training to help couples learn the crucial relationship and communication skills so their connection can bring happiness and last a lifetime.
Healing hard relationships is both my passion and a privilege. No one taught you the skills you need to have a successful relationship, and it can be challenging to find support when it feels too personal to go to friends or family. Seeking professional help is the best option, and I am ready to help you heal the hurt you have experienced in your relationships. You know you need, and want more out of your relationship, and it's not too late. At Pivotal Approach Therapy, I have specialized training to help couples learn the crucial relationship and communication skills so their connection can bring happiness and last a lifetime.
(763) 324-9302 View (763) 324-9302
Photo of Johanna Schultz, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Johanna Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! I am honored you are taking the time to consider therapy with me. A little bit about myself: I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop, or re-establish, this belief about themselves. My primary focus is talk therapy to get to know one another and what is bringing you in. Then we will work collaboratively to build and develop your internal strengths, skills, and resources that lead to readiness for making desired changes and managing mental health symptoms or challenges currently present in ones life.
Welcome! I am honored you are taking the time to consider therapy with me. A little bit about myself: I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop, or re-establish, this belief about themselves. My primary focus is talk therapy to get to know one another and what is bringing you in. Then we will work collaboratively to build and develop your internal strengths, skills, and resources that lead to readiness for making desired changes and managing mental health symptoms or challenges currently present in ones life.
(320) 322-6799 View (320) 322-6799
Photo of Kelly Hildre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Kelly Hildre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
With over 13 years of experience in mental health and social services, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals ages 12 and up. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), I specialize in using a Brain-Body Model of therapy, which integrates the latest neuroscience with traditional therapeutic practices to support emotional and mental well-being.
With over 13 years of experience in mental health and social services, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals ages 12 and up. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), I specialize in using a Brain-Body Model of therapy, which integrates the latest neuroscience with traditional therapeutic practices to support emotional and mental well-being.
(763) 343-7317 View (763) 343-7317
Photo of Jennifer Knapp, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Jennifer Knapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
(763) 220-1522 View (763) 220-1522
Photo of Kevin Sperle, Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Kevin Sperle
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a therapist who’s passionate about helping polyamorous and monogamous men, LGBTQ+ individuals, and couples to navigate the intersections of identity, sexuality, religious trauma, and mental health. As someone deeply interested in the mind-body connection, I often draw from somatic interventions and trauma-informed approaches.
I’m a therapist who’s passionate about helping polyamorous and monogamous men, LGBTQ+ individuals, and couples to navigate the intersections of identity, sexuality, religious trauma, and mental health. As someone deeply interested in the mind-body connection, I often draw from somatic interventions and trauma-informed approaches.
(763) 272-7723 View (763) 272-7723
Photo of Nicole R.h. Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, RPT
Nicole R.h. Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, RPT
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
For 23 years I have worked with children, teens and adults to find their voice and empower themselves. I ensure my clients are treated with the utmost respect and honored for their individuality and uniqueness. The comfortable and caring environment of my office puts client's at ease. Integration of play and alternative methods of therapy provide client's the opportunity to work in a manner that best fits their needs during their healing journey.
For 23 years I have worked with children, teens and adults to find their voice and empower themselves. I ensure my clients are treated with the utmost respect and honored for their individuality and uniqueness. The comfortable and caring environment of my office puts client's at ease. Integration of play and alternative methods of therapy provide client's the opportunity to work in a manner that best fits their needs during their healing journey.
(763) 251-9263 View (763) 251-9263
Photo of Janell J Riley, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Janell J Riley
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Online Only
I believe we all strive for a similar goal; to find happiness in our lives and maintain healthy relationships with those we love. Sometimes that isn’t as easy as it sounds and requires some outside help to get there. Life is hard and it can be even harder to reach out for help; I am happy and proud that you're here, striving to strengthen relationships and work on yourself. Let’s go through this together and help you meet your goals to live a happy and healthy life!
I believe we all strive for a similar goal; to find happiness in our lives and maintain healthy relationships with those we love. Sometimes that isn’t as easy as it sounds and requires some outside help to get there. Life is hard and it can be even harder to reach out for help; I am happy and proud that you're here, striving to strengthen relationships and work on yourself. Let’s go through this together and help you meet your goals to live a happy and healthy life!
(763) 225-2916 View (763) 225-2916
Photo of Alison Potter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Alison Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Serves Area
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
(763) 307-5785 View (763) 307-5785
Photo of Ella Windel, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Ella Windel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I learned the importance of authentically meeting people where they're at, expressing emotions, and celebrating any win (no matter how small!) after working at a day treatment center with kids who have autism diagnoses. I like to consider a person in context of their surroundings, and I value a collaborative approach to therapy. Lately, I've been working with eating disorder diagnoses and younger adolescents, as well as sports teams and athletes, but I am always open to working with any age at any stage of growth!
I learned the importance of authentically meeting people where they're at, expressing emotions, and celebrating any win (no matter how small!) after working at a day treatment center with kids who have autism diagnoses. I like to consider a person in context of their surroundings, and I value a collaborative approach to therapy. Lately, I've been working with eating disorder diagnoses and younger adolescents, as well as sports teams and athletes, but I am always open to working with any age at any stage of growth!
(763) 445-9336 View (763) 445-9336
Photo of Nathan Hoffman, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Nathan Hoffman
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I take a person-centered approach, helping individuals gain awareness of their mental health while identifying strengths and values. I create a supportive space built on trust, respect, and honesty. My work focuses on self-worth, attachment styles, and how past experiences shape relationships. I believe boundaries, assertiveness, and personal values are key to growth. Using a holistic approach, I integrate physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being to support individuals in improving their mental health and overall quality of life.
As a therapist, I take a person-centered approach, helping individuals gain awareness of their mental health while identifying strengths and values. I create a supportive space built on trust, respect, and honesty. My work focuses on self-worth, attachment styles, and how past experiences shape relationships. I believe boundaries, assertiveness, and personal values are key to growth. Using a holistic approach, I integrate physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being to support individuals in improving their mental health and overall quality of life.
(763) 247-7937 View (763) 247-7937
Photo of Neko J. Vanevenhoven - Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi
Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi
Serves Area
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, substance use, male challenges, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, exploration of sexual identity, substance use, individual curious about being their authentic self and highly sensitive men/individuals.
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, substance use, male challenges, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, exploration of sexual identity, substance use, individual curious about being their authentic self and highly sensitive men/individuals.
(763) 703-1621 View (763) 703-1621
Photo of Michele Laney, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Michele Laney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
(612) 419-8461 View (612) 419-8461

See more therapy options for Saint Michael

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Michael, MN

20+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Saint Michael, MN who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
89% Self Esteem
86% Relationship Issues
82% Depression
82% Trauma and PTSD
79% Grief
79% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
91% Optum
87% Medica

How Therapists in Saint Michael, MN see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
20% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Michael?

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.