Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

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Photo of Nichelle M Hardy - Alongside Counseling, Incorporated, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alongside Counseling, Incorporated
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146
I am president of Alongside Counseling, Inc., a Licensed Professional Counselor engaged in private practice. I have been licensed since 2008 and approved to supervise counselors since 2014 by the state of Missouri; certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors; trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy [EMDR], Emotional Freedom Technique and/or Energy Therapy [EFT] and Dialectical Behavior Therapy [DBT]. I earned Masters of Arts degrees from both Lindenwood University and Covenant Theological Seminary.
I am president of Alongside Counseling, Inc., a Licensed Professional Counselor engaged in private practice. I have been licensed since 2008 and approved to supervise counselors since 2014 by the state of Missouri; certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors; trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy [EMDR], Emotional Freedom Technique and/or Energy Therapy [EFT] and Dialectical Behavior Therapy [DBT]. I earned Masters of Arts degrees from both Lindenwood University and Covenant Theological Seminary.
(314) 310-4130 View (314) 310-4130
Photo of Meredith McCannon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith McCannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Meredith McCannon. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. My approach to therapy is client-centered and solution focused. I have a degree in Community counseling and have worked with all ages. The most common diagnosis is PTSD, MDD, GAD, Bi-polar, and borderline personality disorder. My therapeutic approach has a few theories involved. I used DBT and CBT for mindfulness and thought, feeling, behavior chain. I believe in building rapport and trust with clients to be able to work together on solutions.
My name is Meredith McCannon. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. My approach to therapy is client-centered and solution focused. I have a degree in Community counseling and have worked with all ages. The most common diagnosis is PTSD, MDD, GAD, Bi-polar, and borderline personality disorder. My therapeutic approach has a few theories involved. I used DBT and CBT for mindfulness and thought, feeling, behavior chain. I believe in building rapport and trust with clients to be able to work together on solutions.
(636) 782-3264 View (636) 782-3264
Photo of Abby Claeys, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Claeys
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109
Not accepting new clients
As a foundation of my clinical work, I believe we are purposeful and intentional beings. We do things because they work (or did work) for us in some way. When these behaviors are no longer working we experience discomfort and stress within ourselves and in our relationships. Often this distress manifests itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression, or physical health concerns such as headaches, gastrointestinal problems, or pain. Because of this, I acknowledge the importance of addressing each client in a holistic way, honoring the connection between our mind and body.
As a foundation of my clinical work, I believe we are purposeful and intentional beings. We do things because they work (or did work) for us in some way. When these behaviors are no longer working we experience discomfort and stress within ourselves and in our relationships. Often this distress manifests itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression, or physical health concerns such as headaches, gastrointestinal problems, or pain. Because of this, I acknowledge the importance of addressing each client in a holistic way, honoring the connection between our mind and body.
(314) 326-4834 View (314) 326-4834
Photo of Jamielyn Yates, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamielyn Yates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Jamie Yates and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I'm trained in DBT, CBT, and ACT. I use an eclectic approach that focuses on how our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors affect our lives. I generally work with teenagers and adults with depression, anxiety, and/or Borderline Personality Disorder. I utilize a laid back approach with gentle encouragement for change in areas that my clients have identified as concerns.
My name is Jamie Yates and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I'm trained in DBT, CBT, and ACT. I use an eclectic approach that focuses on how our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors affect our lives. I generally work with teenagers and adults with depression, anxiety, and/or Borderline Personality Disorder. I utilize a laid back approach with gentle encouragement for change in areas that my clients have identified as concerns.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Melody McCaig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melody McCaig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I’m Melody McCaig and an independently licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Missouri. My primary approach is strengths-based and supportive while drawing on many evidence based approaches including CBT and play therapy. I’ve successfully worked with individuals of all ages and from all walks of life in navigating through some of life’s most difficult times.
Hi! I’m Melody McCaig and an independently licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Missouri. My primary approach is strengths-based and supportive while drawing on many evidence based approaches including CBT and play therapy. I’ve successfully worked with individuals of all ages and from all walks of life in navigating through some of life’s most difficult times.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Bayla M. Myer, PhD, Psychologist
Bayla M. Myer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63128
I have over thirty-five years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety disorders, marital discord, and family dysfunction. Changing oneself, therefore changing others around you, can lead to happier relationships. Understanding and insight can raise self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential, and trusting environment to explore one's feelings and consider options to produce different and improved results. Video and telehealth sessions have been added to accommodate the COVID-19 safety protocols.
I have over thirty-five years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety disorders, marital discord, and family dysfunction. Changing oneself, therefore changing others around you, can lead to happier relationships. Understanding and insight can raise self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential, and trusting environment to explore one's feelings and consider options to produce different and improved results. Video and telehealth sessions have been added to accommodate the COVID-19 safety protocols.
(314) 828-2354 View (314) 828-2354
Photo of Jason Reeves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Reeves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times, especially when significant changes and traumatic events leave us feeling lost, alone, and undone. These circumstances can impact the way we view ourselves, others, and the world around us, especially when the tools we have do not seem to provide relief from the stresses of life and the feelings that accompany them. I can help guide your mental health journey so you can get back to focusing on the things that matter most. Together, we can learn to manage the challenges of life.
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times, especially when significant changes and traumatic events leave us feeling lost, alone, and undone. These circumstances can impact the way we view ourselves, others, and the world around us, especially when the tools we have do not seem to provide relief from the stresses of life and the feelings that accompany them. I can help guide your mental health journey so you can get back to focusing on the things that matter most. Together, we can learn to manage the challenges of life.
(816) 476-1558 View (816) 476-1558
Patrick Openlander
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
I believe in your ability to change and grow. Whether the challenge you face is anxiety, depression, or something else, my goal is to understand clearly how you see the issue. Next, we explore and create a unique approach to your problem. I teach skills that are time-tested and thoroughly science-based but always they are adapted to your personal situation. Whenever possible, emphasis will be placed on your strengths and how they can be brought to bear to help. Sessions conclude with you giving me a grade on my performance for the hour. I want your feedback.
I believe in your ability to change and grow. Whether the challenge you face is anxiety, depression, or something else, my goal is to understand clearly how you see the issue. Next, we explore and create a unique approach to your problem. I teach skills that are time-tested and thoroughly science-based but always they are adapted to your personal situation. Whenever possible, emphasis will be placed on your strengths and how they can be brought to bear to help. Sessions conclude with you giving me a grade on my performance for the hour. I want your feedback.
(314) 200-0506 View (314) 200-0506
Photo of Michele Keller, MA, LPC, Counselor
Michele Keller
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience practicing in Missouri and Oklahoma, I am here to guide you on your path to healing and self-discovery. With a background in the travel industry and a wide range of cultural experiences, I bring a unique perspective that fosters openness and understanding. I have worked with adults of all ages in various settings, including private practice and intensive outpatient programs. Together, we can tackle common issues such as depression, anxiety, work-related stress, relationship problems, low self-esteem, grief, divorce, chronic health issues, and major life changes.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience practicing in Missouri and Oklahoma, I am here to guide you on your path to healing and self-discovery. With a background in the travel industry and a wide range of cultural experiences, I bring a unique perspective that fosters openness and understanding. I have worked with adults of all ages in various settings, including private practice and intensive outpatient programs. Together, we can tackle common issues such as depression, anxiety, work-related stress, relationship problems, low self-esteem, grief, divorce, chronic health issues, and major life changes.
(636) 689-2765 View (636) 689-2765
Photo of Dr. Meghan Littles, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Meghan Littles
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Do you wonder if your child has ADHD, autism, or some other cognitive processing difference? Are you looking for answers for why your child is struggling at home, at school, and socially? For some kids, every day seems to start with difficulty. Getting ready, trouble staying organized organized, staying on top of assignments, and emotional outbursts are frustrating for everyone. No one knows exactly “why” these things are happening or how to handle them. If you or your child feel overwhelmed and are looking for answers and new ways to tackle the overwhelm, I can help.
Do you wonder if your child has ADHD, autism, or some other cognitive processing difference? Are you looking for answers for why your child is struggling at home, at school, and socially? For some kids, every day seems to start with difficulty. Getting ready, trouble staying organized organized, staying on top of assignments, and emotional outbursts are frustrating for everyone. No one knows exactly “why” these things are happening or how to handle them. If you or your child feel overwhelmed and are looking for answers and new ways to tackle the overwhelm, I can help.
(314) 208-2167 View (314) 208-2167
Photo of Christopher Lloyd Jeffrey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Lloyd Jeffrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of adults who have endured parental abuse and maltreatment during childhood. I focus particularly on working with men who experienced this abuse from their mothers - a dynamic that is often internally buried or locked away due to immense thoughts and feelings of shame, guilt, self-blame, and weakness. My approach starts with foundation of trust in confidentiality and listening without judgment. And my goal is to help my client reclaim their sense of identity, build resilience, and move toward lasting healing. If you're looking for someone who truly understands this unique dynamic, I'm here to help!
I specialize in the treatment of adults who have endured parental abuse and maltreatment during childhood. I focus particularly on working with men who experienced this abuse from their mothers - a dynamic that is often internally buried or locked away due to immense thoughts and feelings of shame, guilt, self-blame, and weakness. My approach starts with foundation of trust in confidentiality and listening without judgment. And my goal is to help my client reclaim their sense of identity, build resilience, and move toward lasting healing. If you're looking for someone who truly understands this unique dynamic, I'm here to help!
(314) 876-6416 View (314) 876-6416
Photo of Roselyne Hazard, MSW, LCSW, HTCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roselyne Hazard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, HTCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Gnôthi seautón. "Know thyself" (Aphorism inscribed over the entrance to the temple of Apollo at Delphi). The ancient philosophers already knew the importance of self-knowledge.. I can help you use mindfulness and compassion, to embark into the adventure of exploring the obvious and less obvious parts of you, that affect you personally and in your relationships. Heal pains and unload unnecessary burdens, present and past. Expand your motivation, and go forward toward realizing your full potential and increasing your happiness!
Gnôthi seautón. "Know thyself" (Aphorism inscribed over the entrance to the temple of Apollo at Delphi). The ancient philosophers already knew the importance of self-knowledge.. I can help you use mindfulness and compassion, to embark into the adventure of exploring the obvious and less obvious parts of you, that affect you personally and in your relationships. Heal pains and unload unnecessary burdens, present and past. Expand your motivation, and go forward toward realizing your full potential and increasing your happiness!
(636) 244-6292 View (636) 244-6292
Photo of Emily Hansen, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Hansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Along with being a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have been a Professional School Counselor for 14 years. I have experience working with school aged children all the way to late adulthood. My approach seems to work very well with a variety of life challenges, especially anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress, and life transitions.
Along with being a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have been a Professional School Counselor for 14 years. I have experience working with school aged children all the way to late adulthood. My approach seems to work very well with a variety of life challenges, especially anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress, and life transitions.
(636) 556-6931 View (636) 556-6931
Photo of Roian Baalman, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roian Baalman
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am here because I have been there. I want to pay forward what I have learned to you. I believe that educational experience, when coupled with life experience, breeds empathy, without judgment. More than anything, I needed to ensure that all my pain was not in vain. So, I have over nine years of education in psychology and counseling, specializing in trauma; anxiety; depression; grief; relationship issues; stress; ADHD; and Alcohol and Drug Counseling. I will ensure we build a rapport. I will listen actively to you. I will help you draw connections and discern patterns in your life.
I am here because I have been there. I want to pay forward what I have learned to you. I believe that educational experience, when coupled with life experience, breeds empathy, without judgment. More than anything, I needed to ensure that all my pain was not in vain. So, I have over nine years of education in psychology and counseling, specializing in trauma; anxiety; depression; grief; relationship issues; stress; ADHD; and Alcohol and Drug Counseling. I will ensure we build a rapport. I will listen actively to you. I will help you draw connections and discern patterns in your life.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Tyler Witzig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyler Witzig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Ever feel like no matter what you try, the same painful patterns keep showing up? The weight of unresolved emotions can leave you feeling distant from others and constantly on guard, as if a heavy fog surrounds you. It's frustrating to keep hoping for change when past efforts haven’t brought the relief you seek. Whether it's the strain of relationships that never quite click, the persistent undercurrent of anxiety that keeps you on edge, or the gnawing sense that something vital is missing, these struggles can feel like an endless loop. You're not alone in feeling stuck, exhausted, and unsure of where to turn next.
Ever feel like no matter what you try, the same painful patterns keep showing up? The weight of unresolved emotions can leave you feeling distant from others and constantly on guard, as if a heavy fog surrounds you. It's frustrating to keep hoping for change when past efforts haven’t brought the relief you seek. Whether it's the strain of relationships that never quite click, the persistent undercurrent of anxiety that keeps you on edge, or the gnawing sense that something vital is missing, these struggles can feel like an endless loop. You're not alone in feeling stuck, exhausted, and unsure of where to turn next.
(314) 886-8645 View (314) 886-8645
Photo of Darlene Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darlene Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello. I am Darlene Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My therapeutic approach is individualized to meet the needs of clients. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. This included individual and family therapy. I use an assortment of therapy techniques based on the need of the client. The most common is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT can be used to treat a variety of issues. As an LPC, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Most of the clients I have worked with are adolescents who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, or trauma.
Hello. I am Darlene Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My therapeutic approach is individualized to meet the needs of clients. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. This included individual and family therapy. I use an assortment of therapy techniques based on the need of the client. The most common is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT can be used to treat a variety of issues. As an LPC, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Most of the clients I have worked with are adolescents who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, or trauma.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Nicole Schwarz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Schwarz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
You know you don't want to live like this anymore. You want to learn how to manage feelings of anxiety or depression. You've been confused, lonely, and frustrated for long enough, and are ready for a positive change. Or maybe you aren't quite sure what you need, but you're willing to give therapy a try. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and encouraged. I especially enjoy working with women of all ages who are struggling with low self-esteem, negative self-image, relationships, burnout, motherhood, guilt, or breaking generational patterns.
You know you don't want to live like this anymore. You want to learn how to manage feelings of anxiety or depression. You've been confused, lonely, and frustrated for long enough, and are ready for a positive change. Or maybe you aren't quite sure what you need, but you're willing to give therapy a try. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and encouraged. I especially enjoy working with women of all ages who are struggling with low self-esteem, negative self-image, relationships, burnout, motherhood, guilt, or breaking generational patterns.
(314) 937-6473 View (314) 937-6473
Photo of Mary Huckaby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Huckaby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mary Huckaby, LCSW My approach is client centered meaning that we work together to help reach your goals. I love working with people who want to improve their quality of life. It is very rewarding to see my clients reach their goals. I practice trauma informed care. I like to use cognitive behavioral therapy for depression and anxiety but I also use mindfulness and motivational interviewing.
Mary Huckaby, LCSW My approach is client centered meaning that we work together to help reach your goals. I love working with people who want to improve their quality of life. It is very rewarding to see my clients reach their goals. I practice trauma informed care. I like to use cognitive behavioral therapy for depression and anxiety but I also use mindfulness and motivational interviewing.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Tonya Powell, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonya Powell
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to providing exceptional care and promoting healing and wholeness. She received her Masters degree in Professional Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. Since then, she has had extensive training and experience working with a diverse group of people, including residential care working with children and adolescents struggling with trauma induced behaviors, maladaptive coping skills, and problematic sexualized behaviors. In addition she has worked closely with victims of domestic and/or sexual violence,
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to providing exceptional care and promoting healing and wholeness. She received her Masters degree in Professional Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. Since then, she has had extensive training and experience working with a diverse group of people, including residential care working with children and adolescents struggling with trauma induced behaviors, maladaptive coping skills, and problematic sexualized behaviors. In addition she has worked closely with victims of domestic and/or sexual violence,
(816) 846-3166 View (816) 846-3166
Photo of Mandy Browning, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandy Browning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Mandy Browning, and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in the states of Missouri and Arkansas. I have worked with clients of all ages, but since the pandemic hit, my primary clientele has been adults. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I do place a degree of focus on the connection between our physical and mental health when I am working with clients.
My name is Mandy Browning, and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in the states of Missouri and Arkansas. I have worked with clients of all ages, but since the pandemic hit, my primary clientele has been adults. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I do place a degree of focus on the connection between our physical and mental health when I am working with clients.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Saint Louis, MO who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
70% Relationship Issues
69% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Self Esteem
62% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Saint Louis, MO see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
17% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Louis?

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.