Photo of Marriage healing center/Life Enrichment counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Marriage healing center/Life Enrichment counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHP
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
The philosophy that guides me in my work with clients is a strong core belief in respect for each person's unique culture and heritage. There are no cookie cutter therapeutic interventions that work universally on all clients with the exception of the development of strong therapeutic relationship between client and therapist. I believe therapy needs to be meaningful, personal and tailored for each person or couple. A distinctive of my practice is to provide an integrated approach that treats the whole person. I am trained in Gottman Level 1 & 2, Prepare/Enrich certified, and use the skills learned when working with couples.
The philosophy that guides me in my work with clients is a strong core belief in respect for each person's unique culture and heritage. There are no cookie cutter therapeutic interventions that work universally on all clients with the exception of the development of strong therapeutic relationship between client and therapist. I believe therapy needs to be meaningful, personal and tailored for each person or couple. A distinctive of my practice is to provide an integrated approach that treats the whole person. I am trained in Gottman Level 1 & 2, Prepare/Enrich certified, and use the skills learned when working with couples.
(571) 601-4403 View (571) 601-4403
Photo of Chase Butala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20155, VA
Chase Butala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LCPC VA, MD WVA
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Chase received his Bachelor's Degree in Sociology in 2006 at the Shippensburg University, and his Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from West Virginia University in 2009. He has 15 plus years of experience in the mental health field. In 2009 he was, and remains, certified as a Rehabilitation Counselor by Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. He worked at Timber Ridge School (Winchester, VA) for 5 years providing case management, group interventions, crisis intervention, and assisting in treatment development for adolescent males.
Chase received his Bachelor's Degree in Sociology in 2006 at the Shippensburg University, and his Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from West Virginia University in 2009. He has 15 plus years of experience in the mental health field. In 2009 he was, and remains, certified as a Rehabilitation Counselor by Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. He worked at Timber Ridge School (Winchester, VA) for 5 years providing case management, group interventions, crisis intervention, and assisting in treatment development for adolescent males.
(540) 592-4723 View (540) 592-4723
Photo of Mary Kirkpatrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Mary Kirkpatrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
We have a few openings for adults at this time. We especially have availability for morning appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
We have a few openings for adults at this time. We especially have availability for morning appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
(540) 351-9685 View (540) 351-9685
Photo of Marriage Healing Center, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20155, VA
Marriage Healing Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Are you going through a struggle in your marriage or romantic relationship? Do you feel that the connection you once shared when you first met is waning? Have you tried to address issues with your partner on your own, but are still feeling stuck? There is hope for your relationship. We are a team of marriage therapists with a number of years of experience in working with couples. The majority of therapists are trained in the Gottman Method or Imago Therapy. We have helped numerous couples get through the power struggle phase of their relationship to find a connection.
Are you going through a struggle in your marriage or romantic relationship? Do you feel that the connection you once shared when you first met is waning? Have you tried to address issues with your partner on your own, but are still feeling stuck? There is hope for your relationship. We are a team of marriage therapists with a number of years of experience in working with couples. The majority of therapists are trained in the Gottman Method or Imago Therapy. We have helped numerous couples get through the power struggle phase of their relationship to find a connection.
(703) 297-8458 View (703) 297-8458
Photo of Marisusan 'sue' Fryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20155, VA
Marisusan 'sue' Fryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Life is hard at times; we all need someone to talk with. You're not alone and you deserve to live a full life of happiness and success. The first step is reaching out. I, Sue Fryant, am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Virginia and North Carolina. With over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in the following settings: out-patient, in-home, schools, hospital, and hospice. My interests and experience are working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, ADHD, poor impulse control, end of life issues/concerns, grief, and loss.
Life is hard at times; we all need someone to talk with. You're not alone and you deserve to live a full life of happiness and success. The first step is reaching out. I, Sue Fryant, am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Virginia and North Carolina. With over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in the following settings: out-patient, in-home, schools, hospital, and hospice. My interests and experience are working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, ADHD, poor impulse control, end of life issues/concerns, grief, and loss.
(571) 200-2446 View (571) 200-2446
Photo of Parnia Samimi, Pre-Licensed Professional in 20155, VA
Parnia Samimi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
My clientele consists of individuals from ages 14 and up. Which includes couple therapy as well. I work with clients who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Substance Abuse and Addiction, Trauma, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Social and Communication Skills, Anger Management, communication/relationship, and eating disorders.
My clientele consists of individuals from ages 14 and up. Which includes couple therapy as well. I work with clients who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Substance Abuse and Addiction, Trauma, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Social and Communication Skills, Anger Management, communication/relationship, and eating disorders.
(571) 701-1639 View (571) 701-1639
Photo of Crystal Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Crystal Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life is a journey that is individualized but does not have to be walked alone. There are challenges that we face on our path that can be overwhelming. At various moments of our life we just need that helping hand to guide, redirect, motivate, listen, or enlighten a perspective for change so we may overcome a situation. Life is unpredictable and seldom goes as planned. With change, comes new decisions and then follows the need for purposeful action. I utilize various modalities and treatment approaches that is a "best fit" for my client's individualized journey in life.
Life is a journey that is individualized but does not have to be walked alone. There are challenges that we face on our path that can be overwhelming. At various moments of our life we just need that helping hand to guide, redirect, motivate, listen, or enlighten a perspective for change so we may overcome a situation. Life is unpredictable and seldom goes as planned. With change, comes new decisions and then follows the need for purposeful action. I utilize various modalities and treatment approaches that is a "best fit" for my client's individualized journey in life.
(703) 348-9846 View (703) 348-9846
Photo of Richard Villa, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Richard Villa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Richard A. Villa is a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 1991. Richard has served as a Military and Family Life Counselor at various military installations both in the United States and abroad. Additionally, he has taught psychology courses at Navarro College and at Texas A&M University. Richard has also completed all coursework for his doctorate and hopes to finalize his program soon. Richard has a diverse mental health and substance abuse background and experience.
Richard A. Villa is a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 1991. Richard has served as a Military and Family Life Counselor at various military installations both in the United States and abroad. Additionally, he has taught psychology courses at Navarro College and at Texas A&M University. Richard has also completed all coursework for his doctorate and hopes to finalize his program soon. Richard has a diverse mental health and substance abuse background and experience.
(571) 520-6449 View (571) 520-6449
Photo of Chalita Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Chalita Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Chalita Thomas, LPC Chalita Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2013. She has an M.S. from North Carolina Central University and an M.A. from Liberty University. Chalita thrives in providing a warm, compassionate, unbiased, and safe environment where clients are openly able to express their thoughts and feelings. In her spare time, Chalita enjoys traveling, shopping, volunteering, and going to concerts.
Chalita Thomas, LPC Chalita Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2013. She has an M.S. from North Carolina Central University and an M.A. from Liberty University. Chalita thrives in providing a warm, compassionate, unbiased, and safe environment where clients are openly able to express their thoughts and feelings. In her spare time, Chalita enjoys traveling, shopping, volunteering, and going to concerts.
(571) 601-1211 View (571) 601-1211
Photo of Courtney Shaughnessy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Courtney Shaughnessy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety or depression. I am now accepting couples counseling as well. I am trained in several evidence-based treatments including cognitive-behavioral therapy, applied behavioral analysis, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy . I encourage verbal communication skills, coping techniques, and appropriate problem-solving skills.
I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety or depression. I am now accepting couples counseling as well. I am trained in several evidence-based treatments including cognitive-behavioral therapy, applied behavioral analysis, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy . I encourage verbal communication skills, coping techniques, and appropriate problem-solving skills.
(571) 410-3725 View (571) 410-3725
Photo of Michelle Gorden- NOVA Clinical Counseling,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Michelle Gorden- NOVA Clinical Counseling,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
I'm Michelle Gorden, a counselor with dual credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). With 20 years in the field, my expertise spans a range of areas, particularly mood disorders, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I especially enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, career-related stress, and goal setting.
I'm Michelle Gorden, a counselor with dual credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). With 20 years in the field, my expertise spans a range of areas, particularly mood disorders, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I especially enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, career-related stress, and goal setting.
(571) 568-8212 View (571) 568-8212
Photo of Susan Patricia Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Susan Patricia Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
In my practice, I work with adults, adolescents and couples. My primary interests include: treatments for trauma and PTSD, life changes and transitions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, grief and loss and LGBTQ issues and concerns. I enjoy working with a variety of techniques to assist others in controlling and reducing the effects of daily stress. I provide supervision for students working on their LPC licensure credentials and am an approved provider with the Board of Counseling in VA.
In my practice, I work with adults, adolescents and couples. My primary interests include: treatments for trauma and PTSD, life changes and transitions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, grief and loss and LGBTQ issues and concerns. I enjoy working with a variety of techniques to assist others in controlling and reducing the effects of daily stress. I provide supervision for students working on their LPC licensure credentials and am an approved provider with the Board of Counseling in VA.
(703) 845-0666 View (703) 845-0666
Photo of Jodi L Eanes, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Jodi L Eanes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
There are many stressors in daily life that may cause us to feel out of sorts, anxious, depressed, grieved or traumatized. I specialize in all anxiety disorders, most depression disorders, simple and complex grief, and some trauma disorders. I believe there is hope for recovery for all. I would be honored to assist you to learn to live out of your "Best Real Self". You can have a more contented, and accomplished life.
There are many stressors in daily life that may cause us to feel out of sorts, anxious, depressed, grieved or traumatized. I specialize in all anxiety disorders, most depression disorders, simple and complex grief, and some trauma disorders. I believe there is hope for recovery for all. I would be honored to assist you to learn to live out of your "Best Real Self". You can have a more contented, and accomplished life.
(571) 450-9144 View (571) 450-9144
Photo of Monique Cowell, Pre-Licensed Professional in 20155, VA
Monique Cowell
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
“Life can and will have its challenges. The way we cope with these challenges can be our greatest gift if we equip ourselves with the mindset that we have already conquered them.” Seeking support is commendable and shows that you are on your way to making positive changes in your life. I am excited to help you on and through your journey of healing and wholeness.
“Life can and will have its challenges. The way we cope with these challenges can be our greatest gift if we equip ourselves with the mindset that we have already conquered them.” Seeking support is commendable and shows that you are on your way to making positive changes in your life. I am excited to help you on and through your journey of healing and wholeness.
(571) 536-2449 View (571) 536-2449
Photo of Susan Louchen - Dyslexia Therapist in 20155, VA
Susan Louchen - Dyslexia Therapist
MS, CALT, C-SLDS
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Waitlist for new clients
Do school assignments cause emotional distress? Multisensory Structured Language Therapy for Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and related disorders reduces frustration and anxiety while enabling age-appropriate independence in reading and writing.
Do school assignments cause emotional distress? Multisensory Structured Language Therapy for Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and related disorders reduces frustration and anxiety while enabling age-appropriate independence in reading and writing.
(540) 274-2048 View (540) 274-2048
Photo of Clarity Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20155, VA
Clarity Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Clarity Counseling is an outpatient treatment center that commits to providing quality treatment to individuals, families and groups in the Northern Virginia and Richmond area. Clarity specializes in providing comprehensive and evidenced-based treatment for eating disorder recovery and specialized therapies for mental illness. Clarity offers a unique experience where therapists collaborate with the individual and treatment professionals to offer a clear path, free from distortion. Committed to offering quality care, Clarity values working together with their client toward a fuller life that has balance, hope, and a full recovery.
Clarity Counseling is an outpatient treatment center that commits to providing quality treatment to individuals, families and groups in the Northern Virginia and Richmond area. Clarity specializes in providing comprehensive and evidenced-based treatment for eating disorder recovery and specialized therapies for mental illness. Clarity offers a unique experience where therapists collaborate with the individual and treatment professionals to offer a clear path, free from distortion. Committed to offering quality care, Clarity values working together with their client toward a fuller life that has balance, hope, and a full recovery.
(571) 336-1246 View (571) 336-1246
Photo of Ruth Ritchie Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20155, VA
Ruth Ritchie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Waitlist for new clients
We all need support at times in our lives. Are your kids struggling? Is your sex life lacking? Is your relationship missing connection? Are you carrying around pain and trauma? Addiction? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Do you just want to be heard? As a therapist, I will work with you to help identify, address and fortify healthy skills to make positive transformations in your life. I have over 25 years' experience in the helping professions and look forward to the opportunity to meet with you. Its important to take care of ourselves- Call today to take that step towards change.
We all need support at times in our lives. Are your kids struggling? Is your sex life lacking? Is your relationship missing connection? Are you carrying around pain and trauma? Addiction? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Do you just want to be heard? As a therapist, I will work with you to help identify, address and fortify healthy skills to make positive transformations in your life. I have over 25 years' experience in the helping professions and look forward to the opportunity to meet with you. Its important to take care of ourselves- Call today to take that step towards change.
(703) 291-8924 View (703) 291-8924
Phoenix Counseling Group & Play Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAATS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
At Phoenix Family Counseling & Play Therapy Center, PLLC we focus on helping children, adolescents and adults overcome the difficulties they are facing in life. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups. We are experienced in working to help our clients resolve issues depression, anxiety, relationship problems, divorce and remarriage, addiction, Adult Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, school problems, anger problems, family conflict, ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome/High Functioning Autism. We use a variety of treatment methods that focus on changing negative thingking patterns and enhancing strenghts. We conduct workshops to the community on several topics.
At Phoenix Family Counseling & Play Therapy Center, PLLC we focus on helping children, adolescents and adults overcome the difficulties they are facing in life. We work with individuals, couples, families and groups. We are experienced in working to help our clients resolve issues depression, anxiety, relationship problems, divorce and remarriage, addiction, Adult Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, Children of Alcoholics/Addicts, school problems, anger problems, family conflict, ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome/High Functioning Autism. We use a variety of treatment methods that focus on changing negative thingking patterns and enhancing strenghts. We conduct workshops to the community on several topics.
(571) 248-7249 View (571) 248-7249
Photo of Kimberly Bryant, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20155, VA
Kimberly Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with overwhelming sadness or persistent worries that affect your daily life? Are you struggling with navigating stressful events, transitions, or changes in your life? Are you neglecting your own needs while prioritizing others? Are past traumas preventing you from becoming the best version of yourself or obtaining a better quality of life? You're not alone. Therapy offers a secure space for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth, enabling you to openly express your thoughts and feelings, navigate difficulties, gain insights, and develop coping strategies.
Are you grappling with overwhelming sadness or persistent worries that affect your daily life? Are you struggling with navigating stressful events, transitions, or changes in your life? Are you neglecting your own needs while prioritizing others? Are past traumas preventing you from becoming the best version of yourself or obtaining a better quality of life? You're not alone. Therapy offers a secure space for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth, enabling you to openly express your thoughts and feelings, navigate difficulties, gain insights, and develop coping strategies.
(571) 601-2384 View (571) 601-2384
Photo of Kaitlin Westerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20155, VA
Kaitlin Westerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
(571) 554-5246 View (571) 554-5246

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20155

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 20155 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
69% Coping Skills
68% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
64% Trauma and PTSD
57% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Anthem | Elevance
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 20155 see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20155?

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.