Therapists in Fletcher, NC

Photo of Audrey Amir, LCSW, MA, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Amir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
(828) 373-8290 View (828) 373-8290
Photo of Ian P Haag, PhD, Psychologist
Ian P Haag
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
So many of us feel stuck in life. Burdened by the weight of our personal history, and constrained by our fears and self-doubts about the future, it can feel increasingly constricted. We struggle to find our bearings as we're confronted with the consequences of prior choices, many that don't make sense to us when we look back at them. Therapy allows you to slow down, to lay everything out before you. It's a chance to honestly and compassionately address the parts of self you'd like to change and to remember and reclaim the parts of self you've lost, particularly the ones that made you feel alive to the possibilities of what could be.
So many of us feel stuck in life. Burdened by the weight of our personal history, and constrained by our fears and self-doubts about the future, it can feel increasingly constricted. We struggle to find our bearings as we're confronted with the consequences of prior choices, many that don't make sense to us when we look back at them. Therapy allows you to slow down, to lay everything out before you. It's a chance to honestly and compassionately address the parts of self you'd like to change and to remember and reclaim the parts of self you've lost, particularly the ones that made you feel alive to the possibilities of what could be.
(828) 295-1321 View (828) 295-1321
Photo of Abbey Henson-Ives, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Abbey Henson-Ives
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I believe you can learn to say what you want to say without worrying about it or fear of the outcome. If you are struggling with ongoing questioning & doubt, worrying you're always wrong, I might be a good fit for you. It is possible to feel more confident, avoid toxic relationships, and feel more connected. I help individuals build stronger, more authentic connections with others. From improving communication and setting healthy boundaries to boosting self-esteem & fostering intimacy, I'm here to provide you with the guidance & encouragement you need to create fulfilling relationships and feel confident.
Hi! I believe you can learn to say what you want to say without worrying about it or fear of the outcome. If you are struggling with ongoing questioning & doubt, worrying you're always wrong, I might be a good fit for you. It is possible to feel more confident, avoid toxic relationships, and feel more connected. I help individuals build stronger, more authentic connections with others. From improving communication and setting healthy boundaries to boosting self-esteem & fostering intimacy, I'm here to provide you with the guidance & encouragement you need to create fulfilling relationships and feel confident.
(828) 392-6973 View (828) 392-6973
Photo of Dr. Anna Lee Brown, PhD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Anna Lee Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
Life's unexpected challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost and weary, longing for compassion and relief. At The Wellside, Dr. Brown offers personalized clinical mental health counseling to support your journey toward healing and wellness.
Life's unexpected challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost and weary, longing for compassion and relief. At The Wellside, Dr. Brown offers personalized clinical mental health counseling to support your journey toward healing and wellness.
(828) 949-1695 View (828) 949-1695
Photo of Jennifer Macias, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Macias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a therapist who is non-judgmental, inclusive, knowledgeable and makes efforts to understand you and what you're experiencing? If you're working through a loss, struggling with chronic illness, life transitions, low self-esteem, depression or anxiety, know that relief is possible. I create a safe space so I can get to know the real you.
Are you looking for a therapist who is non-judgmental, inclusive, knowledgeable and makes efforts to understand you and what you're experiencing? If you're working through a loss, struggling with chronic illness, life transitions, low self-esteem, depression or anxiety, know that relief is possible. I create a safe space so I can get to know the real you.
(828) 547-4470 View (828) 547-4470
Photo of Jason McKeown, MS, LMFT, CCATPCA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason McKeown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCATPCA
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Hello and welcome! I'm a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist committed to creating a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to navigate the challenges life. I work with clients relationally, whether that relationship is with yourself, a partner, or family member, I am here to guide and support your journey. I have helped thousands of families, couples, and individuals find peace, comfort, and happiness in their lives and relationships. I focus on deepening communication, creating new connection, and moving beyond the past events that control our present lives.
Hello and welcome! I'm a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist committed to creating a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to navigate the challenges life. I work with clients relationally, whether that relationship is with yourself, a partner, or family member, I am here to guide and support your journey. I have helped thousands of families, couples, and individuals find peace, comfort, and happiness in their lives and relationships. I focus on deepening communication, creating new connection, and moving beyond the past events that control our present lives.
(828) 392-5949 View (828) 392-5949
Photo of Aaron McGinley, LCMHC
Aaron McGinley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
What would it be like if you regained a sense of calmness or efficacy in your life, or if those you cared about did the same? Whether you are a parent, a couple, a young adult, or a teen, life can be overwhelming at times, especially if you have difficulty with ADHD, Autism, Social Anxiety, or Giftedness. Sometimes, people turn to video game addiction, conflict avoidance, procrastination, school avoidance or other habits as a means of coping. Clients often find that the best way to get help is to start with a simple phone call, and I am happy to explore the fit with you, coming from a place of complete non judgement.
What would it be like if you regained a sense of calmness or efficacy in your life, or if those you cared about did the same? Whether you are a parent, a couple, a young adult, or a teen, life can be overwhelming at times, especially if you have difficulty with ADHD, Autism, Social Anxiety, or Giftedness. Sometimes, people turn to video game addiction, conflict avoidance, procrastination, school avoidance or other habits as a means of coping. Clients often find that the best way to get help is to start with a simple phone call, and I am happy to explore the fit with you, coming from a place of complete non judgement.
(828) 382-8429 View (828) 382-8429
Photo of Jennifer Elkins, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jennifer Elkins
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting new virtual clients in the state of North Carolina. Call or email to set up an appointment. The road to wellness begins in the mind; but this is not a journey you have to face alone. Everyone needs a little help navigating through life from time to time. I enjoy working with creative types - musicians, artists, writers - however I am able to connect with clients of various backgrounds and interests. The kinds of issues I routinely treat include ADHD, anxiety, panic, depression and other mood disorders, relationship struggles, school/career related concerns, family conflict, LGBTQ+ concerns, and self-esteem issues.
I am accepting new virtual clients in the state of North Carolina. Call or email to set up an appointment. The road to wellness begins in the mind; but this is not a journey you have to face alone. Everyone needs a little help navigating through life from time to time. I enjoy working with creative types - musicians, artists, writers - however I am able to connect with clients of various backgrounds and interests. The kinds of issues I routinely treat include ADHD, anxiety, panic, depression and other mood disorders, relationship struggles, school/career related concerns, family conflict, LGBTQ+ concerns, and self-esteem issues.
(828) 830-1644 View (828) 830-1644
Photo of Nancy Mercer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Mercer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My approach to therapy is collaborative, direct and engaging. I offer a safe, welcoming and compassionate environment for reflection and deepening awareness. I help my clients to explore their habitual patterns that may be keeping them stuck and offer skills and tools for change. My strengths include my warmth and authenticity, my sense of humor and my ability to teach and empower.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, direct and engaging. I offer a safe, welcoming and compassionate environment for reflection and deepening awareness. I help my clients to explore their habitual patterns that may be keeping them stuck and offer skills and tools for change. My strengths include my warmth and authenticity, my sense of humor and my ability to teach and empower.
(828) 484-2144 View (828) 484-2144
Photo of Phillip Jordan, LCMHC
Phillip Jordan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Hello, my name is Landon Jordan, I am so happy that you have reached out for help. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I have worked for several years to help clients achieve their goals and reach a better quality of life. I have several years of experience as a crisis therapist, as well as experience with dual diagnosis populations, I primarily focus on individuals that have mental health needs as well as life and adjustment issues. I typically work with adults, I am most comfortable treating mental health issues and life adjustment issues.
Hello, my name is Landon Jordan, I am so happy that you have reached out for help. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I have worked for several years to help clients achieve their goals and reach a better quality of life. I have several years of experience as a crisis therapist, as well as experience with dual diagnosis populations, I primarily focus on individuals that have mental health needs as well as life and adjustment issues. I typically work with adults, I am most comfortable treating mental health issues and life adjustment issues.
(980) 332-2868 View (980) 332-2868
Photo of Kara Lustig, PhD, Psychologist
Kara Lustig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
For over a decade, I have worked with individuals struggling with a wide range of difficulties and acuity, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and personality disorders. I work particularly well with clients struggling with chronic worry, anxiety, anger, irritability, and shame. I prioritize creating a warm, non-judgmental space where my clients can increase awareness of their emotional and relational patterns, including how difficulties relate to our larger context and early life experiences. My clients express appreciation for my transparent, collaborative, compassionate, & well-informed approach.
For over a decade, I have worked with individuals struggling with a wide range of difficulties and acuity, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and personality disorders. I work particularly well with clients struggling with chronic worry, anxiety, anger, irritability, and shame. I prioritize creating a warm, non-judgmental space where my clients can increase awareness of their emotional and relational patterns, including how difficulties relate to our larger context and early life experiences. My clients express appreciation for my transparent, collaborative, compassionate, & well-informed approach.
(781) 745-4476 View (781) 745-4476
Photo of Kat Oliveira, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kat Oliveira
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you going through transitions in your life? Or perhaps you are stuck and unsure how to move forward? Are you struggling with uncertainties, doubts, and perhaps some anxiety? If so, let's talk! I love to help clients who are going through major life transitions (such as endings or changes in current relationships), gender or sexuality questioning (LGBTQQ+), divorce, grief, career changes, and other challenging circumstances.
Are you going through transitions in your life? Or perhaps you are stuck and unsure how to move forward? Are you struggling with uncertainties, doubts, and perhaps some anxiety? If so, let's talk! I love to help clients who are going through major life transitions (such as endings or changes in current relationships), gender or sexuality questioning (LGBTQQ+), divorce, grief, career changes, and other challenging circumstances.
(828) 585-5328 View (828) 585-5328
Photo of Aubrey Baptista, MA, LCMHC, QS, ATR-BC
Aubrey Baptista
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
Are you a professional feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Perhaps ADHD, anxiety, depression, or challenges with work-life balance and executive functioning make it hard to focus, stay organized, or regulate emotions. You might feel like you’re constantly running on empty, doubting yourself, or struggling to keep up. My clients often want clarity, confidence, and relief—they want to feel grounded and connected again. Together, we’ll explore your challenges, build on your strengths, and help you create balance, purpose, and a life that feels fulfilling and truly yours.
Are you a professional feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Perhaps ADHD, anxiety, depression, or challenges with work-life balance and executive functioning make it hard to focus, stay organized, or regulate emotions. You might feel like you’re constantly running on empty, doubting yourself, or struggling to keep up. My clients often want clarity, confidence, and relief—they want to feel grounded and connected again. Together, we’ll explore your challenges, build on your strengths, and help you create balance, purpose, and a life that feels fulfilling and truly yours.
(828) 360-9668 View (828) 360-9668
Photo of Anne Webb, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Anne Webb
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
My ideal client is an empathic soul, often exhausted from supporting others and stuck in unfulfilling patterns. Despite some outward accomplishments, they know there is—and desire—more. They seek support to release old wounds, reconnect with their authentic self, and gain clarity on their goals. They want to set boundaries, trust themselves, and heal deeply. Ready to invest in their growth, they desire a fulfilling, joyful, and balanced life where they feel empowered and deeply connected—to themselves, their purpose, and others.
My ideal client is an empathic soul, often exhausted from supporting others and stuck in unfulfilling patterns. Despite some outward accomplishments, they know there is—and desire—more. They seek support to release old wounds, reconnect with their authentic self, and gain clarity on their goals. They want to set boundaries, trust themselves, and heal deeply. Ready to invest in their growth, they desire a fulfilling, joyful, and balanced life where they feel empowered and deeply connected—to themselves, their purpose, and others.
(828) 408-0165 View (828) 408-0165
Photo of Jennifer Gill, LCMHCA, NBCC, MA
Jennifer Gill
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NBCC, MA
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Hi! Thanks for stopping by my profile. I’m Jennifer Gill, a Montreat College graduate who’s worked in public health with all ages to address their mental health needs since 2020. I focus on working with children & adolescents, but I also have had great success working with individuals and couples. Currently I am an associate working under Katherine Therell LPC, PLLC, who has served the greater WNC area for over 38 years. I am licensed by the state of NC to practice as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by my profile. I’m Jennifer Gill, a Montreat College graduate who’s worked in public health with all ages to address their mental health needs since 2020. I focus on working with children & adolescents, but I also have had great success working with individuals and couples. Currently I am an associate working under Katherine Therell LPC, PLLC, who has served the greater WNC area for over 38 years. I am licensed by the state of NC to practice as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate.
(828) 989-6090 View (828) 989-6090
Photo of Jamie Friedrich Ager, MA, LCMHC
Jamie Friedrich Ager
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
I believe in the natural healing capacity and basic wisdom of all human beings. Layers of confusion and unconscious wounds can disconnect us from our true selves, and we may end up feeling bad and acting in ways that hurt our relationships- with ourselves, with others, and with this magnificent planet. We become hard and out of touch with our lives and callings. Real, deep change is possible when we face ourselves and our challenges with honesty, willingness, and compassion. If you're struggling with existential confusion or you're feeling consistently sad, anxious, irritable or numb, I'd love to help.
I believe in the natural healing capacity and basic wisdom of all human beings. Layers of confusion and unconscious wounds can disconnect us from our true selves, and we may end up feeling bad and acting in ways that hurt our relationships- with ourselves, with others, and with this magnificent planet. We become hard and out of touch with our lives and callings. Real, deep change is possible when we face ourselves and our challenges with honesty, willingness, and compassion. If you're struggling with existential confusion or you're feeling consistently sad, anxious, irritable or numb, I'd love to help.
(828) 672-2479 View (828) 672-2479
Photo of Jamie Lopez, PhD, Psychologist
Jamie Lopez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
Not accepting new clients
Do you want to increase genuine happiness? Do you feel like you've tried everything and are still stuck? Do you desire lasting change? These are things that CAN be acheived. Therapy and/or coaching can help you discover your values and identify active steps to reach your desired goals.
Do you want to increase genuine happiness? Do you feel like you've tried everything and are still stuck? Do you desire lasting change? These are things that CAN be acheived. Therapy and/or coaching can help you discover your values and identify active steps to reach your desired goals.
(828) 705-0467 View (828) 705-0467
Photo of Mariah Lopez, MSW, LCAS, CSI, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Mariah Lopez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, I offer comprehensive services to individuals dealing with substance use and co-occurring symptoms. If your alcohol or drug use is leading to negative consequences, I am committed to empowering you to reduce unnecessary suffering and reclaim a healthier, more manageable lifestyle.
As a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, I offer comprehensive services to individuals dealing with substance use and co-occurring symptoms. If your alcohol or drug use is leading to negative consequences, I am committed to empowering you to reduce unnecessary suffering and reclaim a healthier, more manageable lifestyle.
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Photo of Brandy Houser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Houser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
I am licensed in North Carolina and Montana. I have been in the mental health field for 14 years with experience in Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder and people that just feel stuck. I work with a wide range of individuals ages 18 to the end stages of life. It is important for me to remain true to who I am and to provide clients with an experience that at times can be hard to sit with, however the process provides insight, meaning and problem solving. The journey to better mental health is best with a person that can walk along with you. If you are ready for change I will be there.
I am licensed in North Carolina and Montana. I have been in the mental health field for 14 years with experience in Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder and people that just feel stuck. I work with a wide range of individuals ages 18 to the end stages of life. It is important for me to remain true to who I am and to provide clients with an experience that at times can be hard to sit with, however the process provides insight, meaning and problem solving. The journey to better mental health is best with a person that can walk along with you. If you are ready for change I will be there.
(828) 622-4112 View (828) 622-4112
Photo of Julie Scroggs, LCMHC, LCAS
Julie Scroggs
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
Do you feel stuck, stalled, and overwhelmed? Do you feel shame, grief, or isolation? You might feel debilitating worry, have chronic sadness, or even struggle to get out of bed every day. You probably feel lost, unsteady, and lonely. Perhaps you don’t know why you feel so empty and dissatisfied, but nothing you try seems to produce long-term changes. Or, maybe you are aware of a particular issue causing you pain, such as an unfulfilling job or relationship, and carry deep self-doubt or shame. This discomfort is the part of you that is longing for something different. But another part feels unsure and uncomfortable with change.
Do you feel stuck, stalled, and overwhelmed? Do you feel shame, grief, or isolation? You might feel debilitating worry, have chronic sadness, or even struggle to get out of bed every day. You probably feel lost, unsteady, and lonely. Perhaps you don’t know why you feel so empty and dissatisfied, but nothing you try seems to produce long-term changes. Or, maybe you are aware of a particular issue causing you pain, such as an unfulfilling job or relationship, and carry deep self-doubt or shame. This discomfort is the part of you that is longing for something different. But another part feels unsure and uncomfortable with change.
(828) 332-5204 View (828) 332-5204
1

See more therapy options for Fletcher

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fletcher, NC

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Fletcher, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
91% Depression
84% Stress
81% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
69% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
48% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Fletcher, NC see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fletcher?

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.