Therapists in Johnston County, NC

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Photo of Katie Catton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Katie Catton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Not accepting new clients
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am currently providing outpatient therapy virtually and in person in Clayton, NC. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018, and my Masters in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2014. I have around 15 years of experience helping adults, teens and families in crisis. My passion lies with helping clients believe that no matter their past, they are worthy of love and a positive future.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am currently providing outpatient therapy virtually and in person in Clayton, NC. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018, and my Masters in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2014. I have around 15 years of experience helping adults, teens and families in crisis. My passion lies with helping clients believe that no matter their past, they are worthy of love and a positive future.
(984) 265-8549 View (984) 265-8549
Photo of Patricia J. Tuohy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Patricia J. Tuohy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Online Only
You are constantly feeling emotional triggers and are not sure why. Despite being successful in your life, these triggers have become familiar, as this has been your experience for as long as you can remember. You have trouble sleeping, your relationships are suffering, and you don't know who you are. You awaken most days with dread. The anxiety hits you immediately. You wonder how you are going to get through your day feeling so overwhelmed. The emotional distress is taking a toll on your health and well-being. You feel disconnected from yourself and others. You know it's time to do something different.
You are constantly feeling emotional triggers and are not sure why. Despite being successful in your life, these triggers have become familiar, as this has been your experience for as long as you can remember. You have trouble sleeping, your relationships are suffering, and you don't know who you are. You awaken most days with dread. The anxiety hits you immediately. You wonder how you are going to get through your day feeling so overwhelmed. The emotional distress is taking a toll on your health and well-being. You feel disconnected from yourself and others. You know it's time to do something different.
(919) 648-1494 x1 View (919) 648-1494 x1
Photo of Brook Myers - Umberger Wellness Solutions LLC, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Umberger Wellness Solutions LLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Brook Myers, LCMHCA, and I’m the owner and therapist at Umberger Wellness Solutions. I provide individual counseling to people of all ages—children, teens, and adults—who are navigating life’s challenges and seeking meaningful change. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. I believe therapy should feel safe and collaborative, where your voice and experiences are respected every step of the way.
Hi, I’m Brook Myers, LCMHCA, and I’m the owner and therapist at Umberger Wellness Solutions. I provide individual counseling to people of all ages—children, teens, and adults—who are navigating life’s challenges and seeking meaningful change. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or just feeling stuck, I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. I believe therapy should feel safe and collaborative, where your voice and experiences are respected every step of the way.
(984) 367-3453 View (984) 367-3453
Photo of LoriAnn Ford - Pawsitive Vibes Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Pawsitive Vibes Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Smithfield, NC 27577
Welcome to Pawsitive Vibes Counseling, PLLC! Animal-Assisted Therapy offers numerous benefits for all age groups. Animals can help with stress reduction, emotion regulation, social interaction, and trauma recovery. Working along beside me will be my dog, Piper. She has worked with many children, teens, and adults. Piper wants to help you too!
Welcome to Pawsitive Vibes Counseling, PLLC! Animal-Assisted Therapy offers numerous benefits for all age groups. Animals can help with stress reduction, emotion regulation, social interaction, and trauma recovery. Working along beside me will be my dog, Piper. She has worked with many children, teens, and adults. Piper wants to help you too!
(984) 283-5042 View (984) 283-5042
Photo of Kristel Byrd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Kristel Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you have low self-esteem, past trauma, identity confusion, grief, or lack personal growth? Are you feeling down or stuck? Do you feel trapped by cultural norms or others’ expectations? Do you feel like a weirdo or you’re just not normal. Is your family nuts? Are you in a life transition (romantic, stage of life, career, school, roles) or in self-discovery, exploring relationships, sexuality, or spirituality? You’re welcome here! I'm a neurodivergent therapist who works with adult ADHD & Neurodivergence, single/new/co-parents, women’s issues & empowerment, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC communities. Let’s find your Peace and Power!
Do you have low self-esteem, past trauma, identity confusion, grief, or lack personal growth? Are you feeling down or stuck? Do you feel trapped by cultural norms or others’ expectations? Do you feel like a weirdo or you’re just not normal. Is your family nuts? Are you in a life transition (romantic, stage of life, career, school, roles) or in self-discovery, exploring relationships, sexuality, or spirituality? You’re welcome here! I'm a neurodivergent therapist who works with adult ADHD & Neurodivergence, single/new/co-parents, women’s issues & empowerment, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC communities. Let’s find your Peace and Power!
(984) 231-8658 View (984) 231-8658
Photo of Alexis Wells, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Alexis Wells
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
3 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Are you going through big changes or transitions in life, such as starting at a new school or job, understanding a recent or suspected ADHD or Autism diagnosis, or entering a new chapter in your life? My ideal client may be experiencing these changes, or are looking to understand themselves deeper and grow into their potential. They are looking to improve their day to day functioning and embrace their authentic self.
Are you going through big changes or transitions in life, such as starting at a new school or job, understanding a recent or suspected ADHD or Autism diagnosis, or entering a new chapter in your life? My ideal client may be experiencing these changes, or are looking to understand themselves deeper and grow into their potential. They are looking to improve their day to day functioning and embrace their authentic self.
(984) 256-8754 View (984) 256-8754
Photo of Joseph Rochelle, Counselor, LCMHC
Joseph Rochelle
Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I believe making healthy changes and choices are options to improve overall emotional and relational health. My goal in working with any person is to first listen and gain an understanding of what the person wants and needs to accomplish to have a better life. To do this, the client and therapist need to be a good match with open communication. All subsequent counseling goals will be agreed upon and identified after the establishment of a good working relationship.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I believe making healthy changes and choices are options to improve overall emotional and relational health. My goal in working with any person is to first listen and gain an understanding of what the person wants and needs to accomplish to have a better life. To do this, the client and therapist need to be a good match with open communication. All subsequent counseling goals will be agreed upon and identified after the establishment of a good working relationship.
(980) 393-6258 View (980) 393-6258
Photo of Rich Griffis, Counselor, MEd, LCMHC-A
Rich Griffis
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC-A
4 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27527
Life can be difficult. We all face challenges, whether it's dealing with a difficult situation at work, going through a tough break-up, or coping with the death of a loved one. It can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel when we're facing these challenges. But there is help available. I’m dedicated to assisting you with your life goals and helping you find a healthy way to process your past traumas to live out your best future. By utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate to help you reach your desired goals.
Life can be difficult. We all face challenges, whether it's dealing with a difficult situation at work, going through a tough break-up, or coping with the death of a loved one. It can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel when we're facing these challenges. But there is help available. I’m dedicated to assisting you with your life goals and helping you find a healthy way to process your past traumas to live out your best future. By utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate to help you reach your desired goals.
(919) 568-5642 View (919) 568-5642
Photo of Hanna Crowley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Hanna Crowley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Waitlist for new clients
Maybe you're struggling with depression or anxiety because of stressful life situations. Maybe you're dealing with relationship or family issues and need a safe place to sort things out. Maybe you have childhood trauma that keeps coming up and you're finally ready to process and heal from it. Maybe you're dealing with anger or grief over the unfair loss or betrayal of someone close to you. Maybe you feel stuck in life and need help to move forward. Maybe you need someone to hold you accountable and challenge you to reach your goals. Whatever it is, I am here for you.
Maybe you're struggling with depression or anxiety because of stressful life situations. Maybe you're dealing with relationship or family issues and need a safe place to sort things out. Maybe you have childhood trauma that keeps coming up and you're finally ready to process and heal from it. Maybe you're dealing with anger or grief over the unfair loss or betrayal of someone close to you. Maybe you feel stuck in life and need help to move forward. Maybe you need someone to hold you accountable and challenge you to reach your goals. Whatever it is, I am here for you.
(919) 705-0032 x264 View (919) 705-0032 x264
Photo of Sasha Johnson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Sasha Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who focuses on the person. Thinking outside the box is crucial for helping all types of situations. Although I treat all ages and sexes, I prefer to work with teenagers and adults on the Telehealth platform. I provide group therapy, substance abuse services and can connect you to other community service providers if needed. My experience in treating clients includes depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, marriage/family issues, career, and trauma/grief.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who focuses on the person. Thinking outside the box is crucial for helping all types of situations. Although I treat all ages and sexes, I prefer to work with teenagers and adults on the Telehealth platform. I provide group therapy, substance abuse services and can connect you to other community service providers if needed. My experience in treating clients includes depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, marriage/family issues, career, and trauma/grief.
(252) 390-3255 View (252) 390-3255
Photo of Sarah M. Thomas-Mariano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Sarah M. Thomas-Mariano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Clayton, NC 27520
Welcome to Sounding Stone Counseling & Wellness, PLLC (North Carolina and Massachusetts). We offer outpatient mental health therapy services in our Clayton, North Carolina office and via telehealth throughout North Carolina and Massachusetts. Our practice is built on a foundation of healing and support. We value the ability to walk alongside you. We strive to help you find healing, growth, resilience, autonomy and hope in this process.
Welcome to Sounding Stone Counseling & Wellness, PLLC (North Carolina and Massachusetts). We offer outpatient mental health therapy services in our Clayton, North Carolina office and via telehealth throughout North Carolina and Massachusetts. Our practice is built on a foundation of healing and support. We value the ability to walk alongside you. We strive to help you find healing, growth, resilience, autonomy and hope in this process.
(984) 253-3425 View (984) 253-3425
Photo of Julie C Bullock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Julie C Bullock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you look like you’re holding it together — but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or constantly overthinking? Maybe you’re a college student trying to figure out who you are, a young woman navigating relationships and self-doubt, or a mom carrying more than anyone sees. You want peace, clarity, and steadiness — but your mind won’t slow down. You don’t have to keep managing it alone. My goal is to help you feel safe enough to explore what’s beneath the anxiety or sadness and build sustainable tools for real change. If faith is important to you, we can incorporate it into our work in a way that feels natural.
Do you look like you’re holding it together — but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or constantly overthinking? Maybe you’re a college student trying to figure out who you are, a young woman navigating relationships and self-doubt, or a mom carrying more than anyone sees. You want peace, clarity, and steadiness — but your mind won’t slow down. You don’t have to keep managing it alone. My goal is to help you feel safe enough to explore what’s beneath the anxiety or sadness and build sustainable tools for real change. If faith is important to you, we can incorporate it into our work in a way that feels natural.
(919) 635-5821 View (919) 635-5821
Photo of Ashleigh Storm Weckesser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ashleigh Storm Weckesser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Clayton, NC 27520
Ashleigh Weckesser is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s degree from Meredith College. She has experience working in-patient as well as out-patient with both individuals and groups. Ashleigh works with young adults, adults, couples, and the geriatric population, with evidenced based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She has experience with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness.
Ashleigh Weckesser is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s degree from Meredith College. She has experience working in-patient as well as out-patient with both individuals and groups. Ashleigh works with young adults, adults, couples, and the geriatric population, with evidenced based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She has experience with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness.
(919) 514-4387 View (919) 514-4387
Photo of Jaime Milling Backof, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jaime Milling Backof
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-S) serving the people of Texas. I have spent my career working with teens/adolescents and adults focusing on grief, depression, and anxiety. I value and embrace trust, respect, honesty, and open-mindedness. I love to help those who need it most! I have helped all populations, with a focus on adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors. I believe everyone has the capacity to grow through therapy and want to be there for every step to help you progress to your best self.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-S) serving the people of Texas. I have spent my career working with teens/adolescents and adults focusing on grief, depression, and anxiety. I value and embrace trust, respect, honesty, and open-mindedness. I love to help those who need it most! I have helped all populations, with a focus on adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors. I believe everyone has the capacity to grow through therapy and want to be there for every step to help you progress to your best self.
(919) 635-4632 View (919) 635-4632
Photo of Margarita Lumbreras, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Margarita Lumbreras
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you're navigating a life transition, healing from past wounds, or simply looking for a space where you can feel heard and supported, I’m here to walk alongside you. I’m passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families strengthen the relationships that matter most. I believe that you are the expert of your own life. My role is to offer a warm, collaborative space where healing can unfold through connection, compassion, and empowerment. I use evidence-based, relational frameworks that nurture self-understanding and meaningful change.
Whether you're navigating a life transition, healing from past wounds, or simply looking for a space where you can feel heard and supported, I’m here to walk alongside you. I’m passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families strengthen the relationships that matter most. I believe that you are the expert of your own life. My role is to offer a warm, collaborative space where healing can unfold through connection, compassion, and empowerment. I use evidence-based, relational frameworks that nurture self-understanding and meaningful change.
(984) 339-0918 View (984) 339-0918
Photo of Jeanne Gilchrest, Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Jeanne Gilchrest
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am offering virtual appointments to residents of Massachusetts.
I am offering virtual appointments to residents of Massachusetts.
(978) 827-0915 View (978) 827-0915
Photo of Karen Tremblay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Tremblay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I provide goal-directed, collaborative therapy focused on embracing change as both constant and certain. I am trained and skilled in Solution-Focused Therapy, a goal-oriented and collaborative approach that helps individuals identify and build on their strengths to create positive changes in their lives. This method emphasizes finding practical solutions and fostering resilience, empowering individuals to navigate challenges effectively. I believe that individuals are the experts of their own experiences and possess the inner strengths and resources to overcome barriers to wellness and happiness.
I provide goal-directed, collaborative therapy focused on embracing change as both constant and certain. I am trained and skilled in Solution-Focused Therapy, a goal-oriented and collaborative approach that helps individuals identify and build on their strengths to create positive changes in their lives. This method emphasizes finding practical solutions and fostering resilience, empowering individuals to navigate challenges effectively. I believe that individuals are the experts of their own experiences and possess the inner strengths and resources to overcome barriers to wellness and happiness.
(984) 217-8502 View (984) 217-8502
Photo of Michael E Webster, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Michael E Webster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Thank you for visiting my page. By visiting this site, you are taking the first step towards realizing the positive changes that you would like to see in your life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings with people struggling with many different types of problems. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I typically approach treatment from a family systems perspective, often focusing on communication patterns and roles that individuals serve in the family system.
Thank you for visiting my page. By visiting this site, you are taking the first step towards realizing the positive changes that you would like to see in your life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings with people struggling with many different types of problems. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I typically approach treatment from a family systems perspective, often focusing on communication patterns and roles that individuals serve in the family system.
(919) 343-5994 View (919) 343-5994
Photo of Renee Watson Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Renee Watson Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
2 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
YOU CAN LIVE BEYOND IT.... LET ME SHOW YOU HOW! I have the skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, I am easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, I will be your last therapist. I have worked with both children and adults with mental health and substance abuse issues since 1995. I listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW https://www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson/
YOU CAN LIVE BEYOND IT.... LET ME SHOW YOU HOW! I have the skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, I am easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, I will be your last therapist. I have worked with both children and adults with mental health and substance abuse issues since 1995. I listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW https://www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson/
(984) 374-9848 View (984) 374-9848
Photo of Phillip C. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCATP
Phillip C. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCATP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
(984) 646-5617 View (984) 646-5617

See more therapy options for Johnston County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Johnston County, NC

200+

Average cost per session

$131

Therapists in Johnston County, NC who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
89% Anxiety
89% Social Anxiety
89% Health Anxiety
89% Driving Anxiety
78% Self Esteem
68% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Johnston County, NC see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Johnston County?

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.