Therapists in Charlotte, NC

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Photo of Damon Neely, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Damon Neely
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life is tough. Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or out of rhythm by the complexity and challenges life may present? Do you struggle with any of the following issues: anxiety, perfectionism, self-doubt, self-hatred, unrealistic expectations, feelings of failure, low self-worth, lacking self-acceptance, emotional regulation, lifestyle management, or relational issues with spouse/partner/family/kids? Do you feel your life lacks meaning or purpose? If any of these issues resonate, I believe I can provide you the space to explore the conflicts within and help you find a pathway towards resolution.
Life is tough. Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or out of rhythm by the complexity and challenges life may present? Do you struggle with any of the following issues: anxiety, perfectionism, self-doubt, self-hatred, unrealistic expectations, feelings of failure, low self-worth, lacking self-acceptance, emotional regulation, lifestyle management, or relational issues with spouse/partner/family/kids? Do you feel your life lacks meaning or purpose? If any of these issues resonate, I believe I can provide you the space to explore the conflicts within and help you find a pathway towards resolution.
(828) 492-2068 View (828) 492-2068
Photo of Samantha Martinez, PhD, MSW, MA, Psychologist
Samantha Martinez
Psychologist, PhD, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28287
You or your loved one may be dealing with overwhelming stress, previous traumatic experiences, loss, or everyday life events, but what matters most is you are looking for ways to navigate these challenges. There are ways to use your strengths to move towards a meaningful life in line with your goals and aspirations. Together we will work to reach a greater understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Personal growth is unique, but we will aim to get you where you want to be, while encouraging development in areas aligned with your values.
You or your loved one may be dealing with overwhelming stress, previous traumatic experiences, loss, or everyday life events, but what matters most is you are looking for ways to navigate these challenges. There are ways to use your strengths to move towards a meaningful life in line with your goals and aspirations. Together we will work to reach a greater understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Personal growth is unique, but we will aim to get you where you want to be, while encouraging development in areas aligned with your values.
(704) 901-8478 View (704) 901-8478
Photo of Kellie Pavlish, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kellie Pavlish
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Kellie offers a complementary telephone or virtual consultation to explore if she can meet your needs, and continue the journey furthermore together. Kellie views the counseling experience as a shared journey, and strives for clients to feel truly seen and heard, and provides them with a supportive and comfortable environment. From the onset, it is imperative to build rapport with her clients, meet them where they are, and together lay the groundwork for taking actionable steps in their lives.
Kellie offers a complementary telephone or virtual consultation to explore if she can meet your needs, and continue the journey furthermore together. Kellie views the counseling experience as a shared journey, and strives for clients to feel truly seen and heard, and provides them with a supportive and comfortable environment. From the onset, it is imperative to build rapport with her clients, meet them where they are, and together lay the groundwork for taking actionable steps in their lives.
(704) 387-5120 View (704) 387-5120
Photo of Kayla LaPier, LCSWA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla LaPier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like emotions control you instead of you controlling them? Has being perceived felt exhausting? Feel like life feels heavier than it's supposed to? I'm here to support you. It's okay to feel like you need to be heard, have someone to talk things through with, celebrate the little wins in life, and hold you accountable to the goals you want to succeed in. As a queer therapist, I understand the unique challenges and traumas of living authentically in a world that often marginalizes our identities. My work is focused on being neuroaffirmative, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, and culturally competent for all.
Do you feel like emotions control you instead of you controlling them? Has being perceived felt exhausting? Feel like life feels heavier than it's supposed to? I'm here to support you. It's okay to feel like you need to be heard, have someone to talk things through with, celebrate the little wins in life, and hold you accountable to the goals you want to succeed in. As a queer therapist, I understand the unique challenges and traumas of living authentically in a world that often marginalizes our identities. My work is focused on being neuroaffirmative, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, and culturally competent for all.
(704) 209-7442 View (704) 209-7442
Photo of Caleb Brown, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Caleb Brown
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The past couple of years has found a way to show us all that health is wealth. Self-care is the best investment there is. So often as a people, we keep things inside and second guess reaching out. If you are reading this, it’s because you are ready to prioritize self-growth and self-healing. You are ready to unpack your story and let go of the things that no longer serve you. Welcome. I offer a safe place for you to just be you, as we collaborate on how you can become the best version of that. I get it, life comes with its peaks and valleys. I am here to help you find balance and inner peace through the ups and downs.
The past couple of years has found a way to show us all that health is wealth. Self-care is the best investment there is. So often as a people, we keep things inside and second guess reaching out. If you are reading this, it’s because you are ready to prioritize self-growth and self-healing. You are ready to unpack your story and let go of the things that no longer serve you. Welcome. I offer a safe place for you to just be you, as we collaborate on how you can become the best version of that. I get it, life comes with its peaks and valleys. I am here to help you find balance and inner peace through the ups and downs.
(704) 610-4437 View (704) 610-4437
Photo of Kim Latham Moseley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Latham Moseley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, making a life transition, experiencing loss or feeling stuck, it requires looking at your whole self! I have over 30 years of experience ranging from working in hospice and bereavement care to assisting older adults and their families as a Geriatric Care Manager, as well as being a Certified Integrative Health Coach from Duke Integrative Medicine and doing Integrative Psychotherapy. I will skillfully help you become your true and best self with the necessary tools to build a healthy, meaningful life, not in spite of, but because of, any challenges you face.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, making a life transition, experiencing loss or feeling stuck, it requires looking at your whole self! I have over 30 years of experience ranging from working in hospice and bereavement care to assisting older adults and their families as a Geriatric Care Manager, as well as being a Certified Integrative Health Coach from Duke Integrative Medicine and doing Integrative Psychotherapy. I will skillfully help you become your true and best self with the necessary tools to build a healthy, meaningful life, not in spite of, but because of, any challenges you face.
(704) 207-0774 View (704) 207-0774
Photo of Lauren Hinson - Healing Pathways, LCSWA, MSW
Healing Pathways
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
My ideal client is one who is ready to find solutions to whatever challenges they may be facing. Their issues may range from past traumas, ADHD, bipolar disorder, family problems or financial issues. Their goal would be to improve the quality of their life in whatever aspect it is that their looking for and eventually no longer require my services!
My ideal client is one who is ready to find solutions to whatever challenges they may be facing. Their issues may range from past traumas, ADHD, bipolar disorder, family problems or financial issues. Their goal would be to improve the quality of their life in whatever aspect it is that their looking for and eventually no longer require my services!
(980) 372-8682 View (980) 372-8682
Photo of Debra Little, MA,, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
Debra Little
Counselor, MA,, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Acceptance, empathy, and respect are the core values I live by and believe necessary when establishing a safe space while walking through the challenges you are experiencing. I get it, it is hard taking the first step to seek help. You may have been going through some difficult situations for a long time, but it does not have to remain that way. I believe you are the expert of your life and I honor that by providing a sacred space for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Together, we can discover your natural ability that fosters the change you seek.
Acceptance, empathy, and respect are the core values I live by and believe necessary when establishing a safe space while walking through the challenges you are experiencing. I get it, it is hard taking the first step to seek help. You may have been going through some difficult situations for a long time, but it does not have to remain that way. I believe you are the expert of your life and I honor that by providing a sacred space for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Together, we can discover your natural ability that fosters the change you seek.
(704) 270-5036 View (704) 270-5036
Photo of Molly Mazeine, MA, LCMHC-A
Molly Mazeine
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Being a teen is tough! Juggling the demands of school, extracurriculars, friends, and family all while figuring out who you are and how you fit into the world can leave you feeling exhausted, confused, and burned out. If you are feeling this way, know that you are not alone and what you are going through is not forever.
Being a teen is tough! Juggling the demands of school, extracurriculars, friends, and family all while figuring out who you are and how you fit into the world can leave you feeling exhausted, confused, and burned out. If you are feeling this way, know that you are not alone and what you are going through is not forever.
(980) 351-4521 View (980) 351-4521
Photo of Megan Cole, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Megan Cole, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina. I believe that everyone can benefit from having a therapist to share concerns and experiences, and to help you process life's challenges- big and small. I believe in empathy, compassion, and respect, and the endless capacity for growth, development, and healing. My aim is for every client to feel unconditionally accepted and secure during our sessions.
My name is Megan Cole, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina. I believe that everyone can benefit from having a therapist to share concerns and experiences, and to help you process life's challenges- big and small. I believe in empathy, compassion, and respect, and the endless capacity for growth, development, and healing. My aim is for every client to feel unconditionally accepted and secure during our sessions.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Crystal R Currie - Compass Life Skills and Counseling, LCMHC, TF-CBT, BC-TMH, NCC, Counselor
Compass Life Skills and Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC, TF-CBT, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
Life can be difficult for even the strongest person. We are an agency committed to helping you heal from devastating experiences and traumatic situations. Our therapists will help you identify, label and heal the emotional wounds that have developed. Our goal is for you to be your BEST SELF! No matter the situation, our non-judgemental approach creates a safe space for healing to take place.
Life can be difficult for even the strongest person. We are an agency committed to helping you heal from devastating experiences and traumatic situations. Our therapists will help you identify, label and heal the emotional wounds that have developed. Our goal is for you to be your BEST SELF! No matter the situation, our non-judgemental approach creates a safe space for healing to take place.
(980) 277-3535 View (980) 277-3535
Photo of Catherine Ladson - FullScope Counseling Services, PLLC, LCMHCS, LPCS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
FullScope Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LPCS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At FullScope Counseling, founded by Catherine Ladson, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCPC, we're here to help you begin your journey to healing in a safe and welcoming space. Our team is all about creating a caring and genuine atmosphere where you can feel supported. We specialize in helping you make choices in your personal and work life that really fit who you are, using your strengths to tackle any challenges that come your way and hold you back from feeling confident and in control. We know that healing and growing as a person is a continuous journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
At FullScope Counseling, founded by Catherine Ladson, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCPC, we're here to help you begin your journey to healing in a safe and welcoming space. Our team is all about creating a caring and genuine atmosphere where you can feel supported. We specialize in helping you make choices in your personal and work life that really fit who you are, using your strengths to tackle any challenges that come your way and hold you back from feeling confident and in control. We know that healing and growing as a person is a continuous journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
(704) 946-5312 View (704) 946-5312
Photo of Mark Livak, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Hello, thank you for your time to review my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
Hello, thank you for your time to review my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Stephanie Hales, LSW
Stephanie Hales
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Are you are hoping to find a place where you can learn to build a stronger connection with yourself and others? Wherever you are in your recovery or therapy journey, I’m here to listen to and support you while helping build understanding of your goals. I support the autonomy of my clients and their expertise on what is best for them. I work with people with eating disorders, disordered eating, or finding acceptance in their body, whether they are new to exploring these issues or have struggled for years. I also specialize in managing anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, family trauma, or identity issues.
Are you are hoping to find a place where you can learn to build a stronger connection with yourself and others? Wherever you are in your recovery or therapy journey, I’m here to listen to and support you while helping build understanding of your goals. I support the autonomy of my clients and their expertise on what is best for them. I work with people with eating disorders, disordered eating, or finding acceptance in their body, whether they are new to exploring these issues or have struggled for years. I also specialize in managing anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, family trauma, or identity issues.
(980) 372-7508 View (980) 372-7508
Photo of Shauna Hill Mason, MS, LCASA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Shauna Hill Mason
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you felt like giving up? Are you experiencing racing thoughts of what ifs? Are you struggling to cope with the stressors of life? Have you struggled with getting out of bed to face the day? Are you suffering from childhood pain and trauma? Together, we can get through it. You don’t have to face these feelings alone. Life can sometimes bring hardships, a range of emotions, and disruptions that you didn’t prepare for. Some of these experiences can take you in many directions. Oftentimes, making you say, “I give up." Together, we can address root issues in order to develop healthy ways of coping.
Have you felt like giving up? Are you experiencing racing thoughts of what ifs? Are you struggling to cope with the stressors of life? Have you struggled with getting out of bed to face the day? Are you suffering from childhood pain and trauma? Together, we can get through it. You don’t have to face these feelings alone. Life can sometimes bring hardships, a range of emotions, and disruptions that you didn’t prepare for. Some of these experiences can take you in many directions. Oftentimes, making you say, “I give up." Together, we can address root issues in order to develop healthy ways of coping.
(704) 751-1671 View (704) 751-1671
Photo of Daria Datnoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daria Datnoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
My name is Daria Datnoff, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in the therapeutic field since 2011. I base my practice on the belief that symptoms of disorders are rooted in impaired relationships with significant others, as well as the natural world. As a result, true healing will only occur within the context of relationship, and nature. I am experienced in an eclectic range of high-quality healing modalities including narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, nature therapy, and relational therapy.
My name is Daria Datnoff, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in the therapeutic field since 2011. I base my practice on the belief that symptoms of disorders are rooted in impaired relationships with significant others, as well as the natural world. As a result, true healing will only occur within the context of relationship, and nature. I am experienced in an eclectic range of high-quality healing modalities including narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, nature therapy, and relational therapy.
(980) 655-3248 View (980) 655-3248
Photo of Stefanie Mann, LCMHCS
Stefanie Mann
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Stefanie Mann is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. Stefanie's passion is helping children, teens, and their families heal through Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. As an Adoption-Competent Therapist, Stephanie helps families navigate through the adoption process, encouraging healing and stability within the changing family unit. For adults, EMDR therapy provides the inner child with an opportunity to heal from past trauma.
Stefanie Mann is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. Stefanie's passion is helping children, teens, and their families heal through Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. As an Adoption-Competent Therapist, Stephanie helps families navigate through the adoption process, encouraging healing and stability within the changing family unit. For adults, EMDR therapy provides the inner child with an opportunity to heal from past trauma.
(704) 684-4123 View (704) 684-4123
Photo of William Etheridge, LCMHC, Counselor
William Etheridge
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) from North Carolina. I received my masters in 2019, and have been working in the field since 2020 professionally. I primarily work with adults 18+ but I do have experience working with teens and couples as well.
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) from North Carolina. I received my masters in 2019, and have been working in the field since 2020 professionally. I primarily work with adults 18+ but I do have experience working with teens and couples as well.
(980) 372-8781 View (980) 372-8781
Raymond J Ball
Counselor, BSc, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Real change is hard, long-term work not meant to be done alone. Dysfunctions around sexuality, food, money and work (the so-called "process" addictions) are primarily a struggle with intimacy. One needs to understand THE FUNCTION OF one's own self - destructive behaviors: that self hatred is not low self esteem; that contempt for others is not good self concept; that my wife is not the problem; and that sex is not my greatest need. I am several steps ahead of you on a journey I encourage you to take. Real change is hard, don't do it alone. :)
Real change is hard, long-term work not meant to be done alone. Dysfunctions around sexuality, food, money and work (the so-called "process" addictions) are primarily a struggle with intimacy. One needs to understand THE FUNCTION OF one's own self - destructive behaviors: that self hatred is not low self esteem; that contempt for others is not good self concept; that my wife is not the problem; and that sex is not my greatest need. I am several steps ahead of you on a journey I encourage you to take. Real change is hard, don't do it alone. :)
(704) 577-4311 View (704) 577-4311
Photo of Deb H McNeill, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb H McNeill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
None of us go through life without experiencing changes or life transitions. We struggle with depression and fight off our anxiety. We go through our day on autopilot, lacking energy, and feeling hopeless. We isolate ourselves from friends and family, we feel misunderstood, or we temporarily escape reality & lessen our pain with alcohol, drugs, food, etc. Resisting change causes us pain and creates additional stress and anxiety in our lives. Acceptance and embracing change begins the healing. If we approach transitions with curiosity rather than fear, and intention rather than reluctance, we can respond to change and foster growth.
None of us go through life without experiencing changes or life transitions. We struggle with depression and fight off our anxiety. We go through our day on autopilot, lacking energy, and feeling hopeless. We isolate ourselves from friends and family, we feel misunderstood, or we temporarily escape reality & lessen our pain with alcohol, drugs, food, etc. Resisting change causes us pain and creates additional stress and anxiety in our lives. Acceptance and embracing change begins the healing. If we approach transitions with curiosity rather than fear, and intention rather than reluctance, we can respond to change and foster growth.
(704) 742-2932 View (704) 742-2932
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Charlotte, NC

3,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Charlotte, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
70% Relationship Issues
68% Stress
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
83% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Charlotte, NC see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Charlotte?

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.