Therapists in Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO
Andrew Sherwood Ph.D. - Jungian Analyst - LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
I work with adults (often above the age of 60) of various races & ethnicities, genders & sexualities, religions & spiritualities. All are welcome. Jungian analysis is a journey of profound self-discovery. Dream interpretation can assist in discovering the depths of the psyche. Symptoms like depression, anxiety, relationship / sexuality issues can begin the exploration of what a more meaningful & interesting life might look like. Note: This type of therapy is not a 'quick fix' process. As of August, 2026, I am accepting new clients.
I work with adults (often above the age of 60) of various races & ethnicities, genders & sexualities, religions & spiritualities. All are welcome. Jungian analysis is a journey of profound self-discovery. Dream interpretation can assist in discovering the depths of the psyche. Symptoms like depression, anxiety, relationship / sexuality issues can begin the exploration of what a more meaningful & interesting life might look like. Note: This type of therapy is not a 'quick fix' process. As of August, 2026, I am accepting new clients.
Ryan M Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
If you or a loved one would benefit from seeing a counselor I specialize in helping teen boys and men.
Teen boys over 14 who are open to the idea of counseling can benefit no matter if a parent initiates. Parents can expect from me good boundaries and communication. Teens often report a willingness to trust me and engage in counseling.
Also, I work with men to understand themselves and their relationships. Counseling seeks to address aspects of yourself we can work together to understand. My goal is to help men towards increased hope and resolve in meeting life's challenges.
If you or a loved one would benefit from seeing a counselor I specialize in helping teen boys and men.
Teen boys over 14 who are open to the idea of counseling can benefit no matter if a parent initiates. Parents can expect from me good boundaries and communication. Teens often report a willingness to trust me and engage in counseling.
Also, I work with men to understand themselves and their relationships. Counseling seeks to address aspects of yourself we can work together to understand. My goal is to help men towards increased hope and resolve in meeting life's challenges.
Michael
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSCP, CSAT
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Men, women, and couples I work with feel stuck in patterns around connection, intimacy, or sex —whether that involves sexual/pornography addiction, compulsive behaviors, cheating/infidelity/betrayal, or ongoing relationship and communication struggles. Others come in wanting a healthier, more connective relationship with others or themselves, but don't know where to start. My goal is to help explore these concerns openly, without judgment, better understand the patterns driving them, and create meaningful change. Together, we work to deepen mindfulness, improve communication, and cultivate stronger, more connected relationships.
Men, women, and couples I work with feel stuck in patterns around connection, intimacy, or sex —whether that involves sexual/pornography addiction, compulsive behaviors, cheating/infidelity/betrayal, or ongoing relationship and communication struggles. Others come in wanting a healthier, more connective relationship with others or themselves, but don't know where to start. My goal is to help explore these concerns openly, without judgment, better understand the patterns driving them, and create meaningful change. Together, we work to deepen mindfulness, improve communication, and cultivate stronger, more connected relationships.
Natalie Woodard
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT
1 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Natalie is passionate about providing high-quality therapy services to kids, teens, families, and adults of all ages! She has served hundreds of families in the KC area over the last ten years, and she is honored to walk alongside people as they seek what’s important to them. She has experience across a wide range of issues, and she also has specialized training in four specific areas: Adoption, Autism & Neurodivergence, Trauma, and LGBTQ+ populations. Natalie can also assist in administering a full autism evaluation. Please reach out for more information!
Natalie is passionate about providing high-quality therapy services to kids, teens, families, and adults of all ages! She has served hundreds of families in the KC area over the last ten years, and she is honored to walk alongside people as they seek what’s important to them. She has experience across a wide range of issues, and she also has specialized training in four specific areas: Adoption, Autism & Neurodivergence, Trauma, and LGBTQ+ populations. Natalie can also assist in administering a full autism evaluation. Please reach out for more information!
Michelle McMahon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, APSATS
1 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
I provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families who are in pursuit of self-awareness, acceptance, healing, and wholeness. My relational approach creates space to honor each person, story, and process.
Trauma is real and trauma is not your fault. Whether the trauma you hold comes from issues from family of origin, from romantic or platonic relationships, or from specific events, I can help you. As we address the trauma and calm your system, we have the bandwidth to walk with our pain with more confidence that we can face it, move through it, and walk into wholistic healing.
I provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families who are in pursuit of self-awareness, acceptance, healing, and wholeness. My relational approach creates space to honor each person, story, and process.
Trauma is real and trauma is not your fault. Whether the trauma you hold comes from issues from family of origin, from romantic or platonic relationships, or from specific events, I can help you. As we address the trauma and calm your system, we have the bandwidth to walk with our pain with more confidence that we can face it, move through it, and walk into wholistic healing.
Zach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSCP, CSAT
1 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
If you're reading this, something around sex, love, or intimacy may feel painful or hard to talk about. Maybe it's love that feels more like need, or patterns you've promised yourself you'd stop. Maybe it's porn or sexual addiction that took more than it gave, the aftermath of an affair, or wounds someone left in you long ago. These struggles often carry tremendous shame, and reaching out can take real courage. You deserve a therapist who offers genuine warmth—someone able to wade into dark water with you without flinching. Together we'll ease that shame, rebuild trust, and create the connected, integrated life you're reaching for.
If you're reading this, something around sex, love, or intimacy may feel painful or hard to talk about. Maybe it's love that feels more like need, or patterns you've promised yourself you'd stop. Maybe it's porn or sexual addiction that took more than it gave, the aftermath of an affair, or wounds someone left in you long ago. These struggles often carry tremendous shame, and reaching out can take real courage. You deserve a therapist who offers genuine warmth—someone able to wade into dark water with you without flinching. Together we'll ease that shame, rebuild trust, and create the connected, integrated life you're reaching for.
Melissa Mazur
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, AS, CATP, CMNCS
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Upon waking up each morning, what thoughts quickly occupy your mind and day? How has your life's journey shaped who you are today? The intricacies of your experiences, perceptions, and responses are uniquely individualized. Everyone's response to trauma is different. With over a decade of experience working with betrayed partners, emotional distortions, and survivors of abuse, my approach is personalized to align with your therapeutic goals and outcome. Working together, my purpose is to offer a trusting and open environment to cultivate the change and life you've been seeking. You are a priority, make time for yourself.
Upon waking up each morning, what thoughts quickly occupy your mind and day? How has your life's journey shaped who you are today? The intricacies of your experiences, perceptions, and responses are uniquely individualized. Everyone's response to trauma is different. With over a decade of experience working with betrayed partners, emotional distortions, and survivors of abuse, my approach is personalized to align with your therapeutic goals and outcome. Working together, my purpose is to offer a trusting and open environment to cultivate the change and life you've been seeking. You are a priority, make time for yourself.
Dan Gabbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CSAT, CMAT, LPC, LCPC
4 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Our practice focuses on treating sexual addiction - the person struggling with addiction and their betrayed partner. If you're struggling with compulsive sexuality, we can help you get into recovery as we have hundreds of other clients. If you are the betrayed partner, it's important to take care of yourself and seek counsel from a compassionate therapist who understands what has happened to you. The addict and the betrayed partner get better faster with a highly trained, highly focused, supportive therapy team. Men and women have regained and even improved relationships through their work with us. We serve clients in MO, KS and AR.
Our practice focuses on treating sexual addiction - the person struggling with addiction and their betrayed partner. If you're struggling with compulsive sexuality, we can help you get into recovery as we have hundreds of other clients. If you are the betrayed partner, it's important to take care of yourself and seek counsel from a compassionate therapist who understands what has happened to you. The addict and the betrayed partner get better faster with a highly trained, highly focused, supportive therapy team. Men and women have regained and even improved relationships through their work with us. We serve clients in MO, KS and AR.
Tyler Smiley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist should feel like your teammate helping you achieve your goals. I primarily work with adults experiencing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or interpersonal issues from family and relationships. I believe that mental health requires focusing not only on our thoughts and emotions, but also on our physical health and social relationships. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients because I understand that therapy must take a unique path for each individual.
Therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist should feel like your teammate helping you achieve your goals. I primarily work with adults experiencing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or interpersonal issues from family and relationships. I believe that mental health requires focusing not only on our thoughts and emotions, but also on our physical health and social relationships. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients because I understand that therapy must take a unique path for each individual.
Alec
Counselor, PLPC, CSTFP, CSAT-C
4 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Men: If you are a man that tries so hard to keep it all together, but find yourself barely getting through the day. Relying on distractions—especially sex or videogames—to feel peace. Feeling a deep inadequacy despite constantly working to convince yourself otherwise. If you feel loneliness but can't find lasting connection or attachment. If you have hurt your loved ones despite your best intentions. Still, there is a way forward. I specialize in men's issues, from adolescence to retirement. I use 8 years of psychological, social work, and therapeutic experience to work us towards the most-meaningful results.
Men: If you are a man that tries so hard to keep it all together, but find yourself barely getting through the day. Relying on distractions—especially sex or videogames—to feel peace. Feeling a deep inadequacy despite constantly working to convince yourself otherwise. If you feel loneliness but can't find lasting connection or attachment. If you have hurt your loved ones despite your best intentions. Still, there is a way forward. I specialize in men's issues, from adolescence to retirement. I use 8 years of psychological, social work, and therapeutic experience to work us towards the most-meaningful results.
Nicole Hayles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
I work with survivors of sexual abuse and assault, betrayal trauma, and those affected by anaphylactic food allergies. People who've experienced these traumas often begin feeling a sense of losing control over their lives. I want you to know that you can heal from trauma and I can help you with that process. I will work with you to figure out how to mange anxiety, fear, sleep and relationship problems or any other symptoms you're experiencing. We can then work together to decide which approach to trauma processing is best for you.
I work with survivors of sexual abuse and assault, betrayal trauma, and those affected by anaphylactic food allergies. People who've experienced these traumas often begin feeling a sense of losing control over their lives. I want you to know that you can heal from trauma and I can help you with that process. I will work with you to figure out how to mange anxiety, fear, sleep and relationship problems or any other symptoms you're experiencing. We can then work together to decide which approach to trauma processing is best for you.
Kathryn J Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
While there are many challenges to this life, there are also many ways to navigate better, therapy provides the space to learn to cope better, problem solve, heal, get motivated, improve our outlook, find strength and to just be heard. I love the saying "if we don't develop new coping skills then we default to the ones learned in childhood." The problem is that for many these mechanisms are often not helpful and can be very disrupt in our everyday lives and relationships.
While there are many challenges to this life, there are also many ways to navigate better, therapy provides the space to learn to cope better, problem solve, heal, get motivated, improve our outlook, find strength and to just be heard. I love the saying "if we don't develop new coping skills then we default to the ones learned in childhood." The problem is that for many these mechanisms are often not helpful and can be very disrupt in our everyday lives and relationships.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Jennifer Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
You may have a life that looks fine from the outside, yet something inside feels stuck, anxious, disconnected, or uncertain. Maybe you find yourself repeating patterns you understand intellectually but still can’t seem to change. I believe meaningful change begins with understanding ourselves more deeply—not just the parts we readily accept, but also the parts we’ve learned to hide, judge, or push away.
You may have a life that looks fine from the outside, yet something inside feels stuck, anxious, disconnected, or uncertain. Maybe you find yourself repeating patterns you understand intellectually but still can’t seem to change. I believe meaningful change begins with understanding ourselves more deeply—not just the parts we readily accept, but also the parts we’ve learned to hide, judge, or push away.
Life can feel overwhelming when you are managing anxiety, relationship concerns, major transitions, or the pressure to keep everything together. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where adolescents, adults, and couples can slow down, speak honestly, and better understand their emotions and patterns. Together, we will build practical coping skills, strengthen communication, and identify meaningful steps toward greater clarity and connection. You don’t need to have everything figured out; I’ll meet you where you are and support you through it.
Life can feel overwhelming when you are managing anxiety, relationship concerns, major transitions, or the pressure to keep everything together. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where adolescents, adults, and couples can slow down, speak honestly, and better understand their emotions and patterns. Together, we will build practical coping skills, strengthen communication, and identify meaningful steps toward greater clarity and connection. You don’t need to have everything figured out; I’ll meet you where you are and support you through it.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (MO), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (KS) and American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists Certified Sex Therapist. I am also trained in EMDR and enjoy using this alongside my sex therapy training to treat issues related to one’s sexuality and sexual functioning. I am especially passionate about helping women working towards sexual empowerment, increasing intimacy through intentionality and helping relationships rekindle and explore their sexual spark.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (MO), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (KS) and American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists Certified Sex Therapist. I am also trained in EMDR and enjoy using this alongside my sex therapy training to treat issues related to one’s sexuality and sexual functioning. I am especially passionate about helping women working towards sexual empowerment, increasing intimacy through intentionality and helping relationships rekindle and explore their sexual spark.
Kate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPC
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Waitlist for new clients
I possess the magic, quick-fix cure for all of your problems — just kidding. However, I do specialize in relationship stress/breakups, people-pleasing, overthinking, breaking free from old patterns that aren't getting you anywhere, being your own worst enemy/personal torture artist, and removing all that pesky low self-worth/doubt, burnout, uncertainty, hopelessness, etc. I have extensive experience working with teens, perinatal mental health, trauma histories, mood disorders, life transitions, and grief/loss. If you're like, "hey, that's me!" and "I'm really ready to feel better" — let's get to work.
I possess the magic, quick-fix cure for all of your problems — just kidding. However, I do specialize in relationship stress/breakups, people-pleasing, overthinking, breaking free from old patterns that aren't getting you anywhere, being your own worst enemy/personal torture artist, and removing all that pesky low self-worth/doubt, burnout, uncertainty, hopelessness, etc. I have extensive experience working with teens, perinatal mental health, trauma histories, mood disorders, life transitions, and grief/loss. If you're like, "hey, that's me!" and "I'm really ready to feel better" — let's get to work.
You feel the weight of life pressing down, a persistent sense of misalignment, disconnection, or longing for something deeper. You’ve been moving through life on autopilot — feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or at odds with yourself and the world. You’re ready to uncover the hidden layers, restore inner harmony, and reconnect to your truest self. You’re seeking more than symptom management; you want to reclaim your voice, power, and purpose. You’re willing to look honestly at the patterns that no longer serve you and invite healing, growth, and a fuller expression of your humanity.
You feel the weight of life pressing down, a persistent sense of misalignment, disconnection, or longing for something deeper. You’ve been moving through life on autopilot — feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or at odds with yourself and the world. You’re ready to uncover the hidden layers, restore inner harmony, and reconnect to your truest self. You’re seeking more than symptom management; you want to reclaim your voice, power, and purpose. You’re willing to look honestly at the patterns that no longer serve you and invite healing, growth, and a fuller expression of your humanity.
Therapy with me is a space where you get to completely unmask. All parts of you are welcome here. You don’t need to filter yourself or worry about being “too much” or “not enough.” In our work together you can be fully your self; a person first, not just a client or a diagnosis. This is a place to tell your truth, even if it’s hard, even if it’s tangled, even if you’ve never said it out loud before. My role is to hold that truth with care and curiosity, not judgment. I believe in meeting people where they are, and walking alongside them as they reconnect with their voice, their values, and their sense of self.
Therapy with me is a space where you get to completely unmask. All parts of you are welcome here. You don’t need to filter yourself or worry about being “too much” or “not enough.” In our work together you can be fully your self; a person first, not just a client or a diagnosis. This is a place to tell your truth, even if it’s hard, even if it’s tangled, even if you’ve never said it out loud before. My role is to hold that truth with care and curiosity, not judgment. I believe in meeting people where they are, and walking alongside them as they reconnect with their voice, their values, and their sense of self.
Heather Ann Fitzcharles
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LCPC, LPC, CCTP
4 Endorsed
Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO 64131
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we experience life changing events that cause us lose sight of our hopes and dreams. Our fears can deceive us into believing that we will never be okay again. We do not have to be defined by what has happened to us. I believe that no matter what we have been through we have the potential to create for ourselves, a happy, rich and full life worth living. It is not easy to overcome the hard experiences, but it is possible. Therapy can increase psychological flexibility and allow us to be open again. If you are tired of being limited and ready to make real changes, therapy can help you create the life you truly desire.
Sometimes we experience life changing events that cause us lose sight of our hopes and dreams. Our fears can deceive us into believing that we will never be okay again. We do not have to be defined by what has happened to us. I believe that no matter what we have been through we have the potential to create for ourselves, a happy, rich and full life worth living. It is not easy to overcome the hard experiences, but it is possible. Therapy can increase psychological flexibility and allow us to be open again. If you are tired of being limited and ready to make real changes, therapy can help you create the life you truly desire.
Nearby Searches for Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO who prioritize treating:
| 91% | Anxiety |
| 91% | Social Anxiety |
| 91% | Health Anxiety |
| 91% | Driving Anxiety |
| 82% | Depression |
| 82% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 82% | Complex PTSD |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Linden Hills And Indian Heights, Kansas City, MO see their clients
| 82% | In Person and Online | |
| 18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 62% | Female | |
| 38% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Linden Hills And Indian Heights?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.