Therapists in Columbus, OH

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Photo of Lora Scharf Hanna, LISW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lora Scharf Hanna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CHT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
My mission is to facilitate your personal healing and growth. I specialize in using holistic psychotherapy, guided imagery, hypnotherapy and meditation to help you tap into your inner resources of creativity, strength and insight. The process starts with skilled, compassionate listening.
My mission is to facilitate your personal healing and growth. I specialize in using holistic psychotherapy, guided imagery, hypnotherapy and meditation to help you tap into your inner resources of creativity, strength and insight. The process starts with skilled, compassionate listening.
(614) 664-6384 View (614) 664-6384
Photo of Angela Price - PriceIsR.Y.T.E Counseling and Consultation, LLC, PsyD, NCC, Psychologist
PriceIsR.Y.T.E Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43206  (Online Only)
PriceIsR.Y.T.E Counseling and Consultation, LLC is a psychological private practice offering therapeutic and consultative services to those in need of “Realizing Your True Essence.” While there is no right way to be or live, there is a best way to live for you. I take a holistic approach to therapy that will meet you at whatever place you are in your journey and aid you in becoming your best self. I support clients across backgrounds and identities in their desire to find meaning, clarity, and hope by means of supportive and reflective therapeutic practice and training.
PriceIsR.Y.T.E Counseling and Consultation, LLC is a psychological private practice offering therapeutic and consultative services to those in need of “Realizing Your True Essence.” While there is no right way to be or live, there is a best way to live for you. I take a holistic approach to therapy that will meet you at whatever place you are in your journey and aid you in becoming your best self. I support clients across backgrounds and identities in their desire to find meaning, clarity, and hope by means of supportive and reflective therapeutic practice and training.
(614) 654-0915 View (614) 654-0915
Photo of Jennifer Barney, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Barney
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
I currently work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) frameworks to treat eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and co-morbid mental health concerns.
I currently work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) frameworks to treat eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and co-morbid mental health concerns.
(614) 714-5842 View (614) 714-5842
Photo of Anna Lehew, MSW, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Lehew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Graduated with a MSW and certification in clinical mental health from the University of Pittsburgh in 2014. I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms, PTSD, addiction, and/ or behavioral issues. I also work with couples and families to help them make changes that allow them to effectively communicate, work through conflicts in a skilled way and be able to be genuinely affectionate with each other.
Graduated with a MSW and certification in clinical mental health from the University of Pittsburgh in 2014. I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms, PTSD, addiction, and/ or behavioral issues. I also work with couples and families to help them make changes that allow them to effectively communicate, work through conflicts in a skilled way and be able to be genuinely affectionate with each other.
(304) 896-0435 View (304) 896-0435
Photo of Kimberly S Bozeman, MAPCC, Counselor
Kimberly S Bozeman
Counselor, MAPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43207  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping people live at their fullest potential. I believe everyone has a story to tell, and I am interested in listening and learning about each one! My gifting is identifying client strengths, and the barriers that prevent fulfillment and success.Whether if you are dealing with depression, OCD, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADD, Grief, Marital, issues, etc., there is hope for you through integrated disciplines in a warm, genuine, safe, caring, nurturing environment. Contact me today to begin your new journey!
I am passionate about helping people live at their fullest potential. I believe everyone has a story to tell, and I am interested in listening and learning about each one! My gifting is identifying client strengths, and the barriers that prevent fulfillment and success.Whether if you are dealing with depression, OCD, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADD, Grief, Marital, issues, etc., there is hope for you through integrated disciplines in a warm, genuine, safe, caring, nurturing environment. Contact me today to begin your new journey!
(614) 585-8344 View (614) 585-8344
Photo of Debbie Sherman, LPCC
Debbie Sherman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Debbie Sherman, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. She received her master's degree in clinical counseling from the University of Dayton. Debbie has over 25 years of experience providing individual counseling in a variety of settings which include community mental health, private practice and the Hospice of Columbus. Debbie works with adults dealing with a variety of concerns which include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, weight concerns, bereavement, stress and relationship concerns.
Debbie Sherman, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. She received her master's degree in clinical counseling from the University of Dayton. Debbie has over 25 years of experience providing individual counseling in a variety of settings which include community mental health, private practice and the Hospice of Columbus. Debbie works with adults dealing with a variety of concerns which include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, weight concerns, bereavement, stress and relationship concerns.
(380) 666-4948 View (380) 666-4948
Photo of Courtney Leigh Dombrowski, MA, LPC, Counselor
Courtney Leigh Dombrowski
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
I have been in practice for nearly 20 years. Many clients come to see me because they feel stuck. I hear "what's the point? why am I here? what's my purpose? " I create the conditions where clients can be seen, understood and reflect on how they want to show up in their life. We explore feelings of loneliness, interpersonal detachment and how to deepen the connections with ourselves and others. I specialize in providing confidential, safe and effective Individual and Group counseling services for a wide range of human struggles including grief and loss, depression, anxiety, life transitions, family of origin issues and addiction.
I have been in practice for nearly 20 years. Many clients come to see me because they feel stuck. I hear "what's the point? why am I here? what's my purpose? " I create the conditions where clients can be seen, understood and reflect on how they want to show up in their life. We explore feelings of loneliness, interpersonal detachment and how to deepen the connections with ourselves and others. I specialize in providing confidential, safe and effective Individual and Group counseling services for a wide range of human struggles including grief and loss, depression, anxiety, life transitions, family of origin issues and addiction.
(513) 805-0635 View (513) 805-0635
Photo of Kate Streim, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Streim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Not accepting new clients
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a special interest in women's health and supporting women through life's challenges. I enjoy working with women from diverse backgrounds navigating health and well-being issues including pregnancy and postpartum challenges, relationship difficulties, managing the mental load of motherhood, and stress management and coping skills.
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a special interest in women's health and supporting women through life's challenges. I enjoy working with women from diverse backgrounds navigating health and well-being issues including pregnancy and postpartum challenges, relationship difficulties, managing the mental load of motherhood, and stress management and coping skills.
(380) 225-5346 View (380) 225-5346
Photo of Megan Donelan, MA, LPCC
Megan Donelan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
Megan doesn't believe clients need to "wait until something is wrong" to start therapy and supports clients in building their distress tolerance against everyday stressors. She prioritizes making clients feel comfortable, safe, and at ease during sessions and collaborates with the client for individualized treatment. She specializes in anxiety, attachment, trauma, and previously provided counseling in residential eating disorder treatment but provides support for a wide range of concerns. Many of her clients are new to therapy, and she enjoys making therapy a positive, effective experience.
Megan doesn't believe clients need to "wait until something is wrong" to start therapy and supports clients in building their distress tolerance against everyday stressors. She prioritizes making clients feel comfortable, safe, and at ease during sessions and collaborates with the client for individualized treatment. She specializes in anxiety, attachment, trauma, and previously provided counseling in residential eating disorder treatment but provides support for a wide range of concerns. Many of her clients are new to therapy, and she enjoys making therapy a positive, effective experience.
(614) 879-1970 View (614) 879-1970
Photo of Hunter Tomlinson, MS, LMFT, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hunter Tomlinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, IMFT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43210  (Online Only)
Life is hard. It can be filled with transitions, challenges, anxieties, grief, depression, a past that just doesn't seem to leave you alone - just to name a few. These things can cause us to live a life that is inauthentic and make decisions that aren't in alignment with the values and hopes that we have. As a therapist, I see it as my role to come alongside you and be with you as you navigate life's challenges, with the goal of living an authentic, fulfilling life. I see clients all over Ohio and California!
Life is hard. It can be filled with transitions, challenges, anxieties, grief, depression, a past that just doesn't seem to leave you alone - just to name a few. These things can cause us to live a life that is inauthentic and make decisions that aren't in alignment with the values and hopes that we have. As a therapist, I see it as my role to come alongside you and be with you as you navigate life's challenges, with the goal of living an authentic, fulfilling life. I see clients all over Ohio and California!
(614) 762-9251 View (614) 762-9251
Photo of Amy Basham, LPCC-S, LICDC
Amy Basham
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I feel passionate about helping people through birth experiences, the postpartum period, and supporting parents through the transition to parenthood. I gained a lot of insight through my own personal experiences with pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. I would like to support people who are experiencing/have experienced pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and fertility issues. I also enjoy helping people struggling with addiction issues. I feel a desire to educate family members on addiction, boundaries, and provide them with support during a challenging time.
I feel passionate about helping people through birth experiences, the postpartum period, and supporting parents through the transition to parenthood. I gained a lot of insight through my own personal experiences with pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. I would like to support people who are experiencing/have experienced pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and fertility issues. I also enjoy helping people struggling with addiction issues. I feel a desire to educate family members on addiction, boundaries, and provide them with support during a challenging time.
(614) 810-8592 View (614) 810-8592
Photo of Lauren House, LPCC-S, LICDC
Lauren House
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
Sometimes, life can leave us feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck, and we’re often unsure of how to manage it, or even harder, make a change. Adjusting to the unexpected, dealing with transitions, and trying to show up for ourselves while juggling relationships, work, family and responsibilities are all things that can lead to this. While coming to this realization is difficult, taking the next step by reaching out for help can feel like the most overwhelming task. I am here to offer a non-judgmental, supportive, and compassionate space to build fulfillment in your life and help you achieve the growth you’ve been looking for.
Sometimes, life can leave us feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck, and we’re often unsure of how to manage it, or even harder, make a change. Adjusting to the unexpected, dealing with transitions, and trying to show up for ourselves while juggling relationships, work, family and responsibilities are all things that can lead to this. While coming to this realization is difficult, taking the next step by reaching out for help can feel like the most overwhelming task. I am here to offer a non-judgmental, supportive, and compassionate space to build fulfillment in your life and help you achieve the growth you’ve been looking for.
(614) 368-9628 View (614) 368-9628
Photo of Mark Rosenblum - The Online Insomnia Center with Dr. Rosenblum, PsyD, DBSM, Psychologist
The Online Insomnia Center with Dr. Rosenblum
Psychologist, PsyD, DBSM
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214  (Online Only)
Has sleeping turned into a struggle? Are you tossing and turning at night or having trouble falling or staying asleep? Are you a night owl who finds it hard to get to bed on time? Maybe your sleep issues are starting to affect your health, mood, or how you function during the day. Perhaps you hoped your sleep problems would go away this summer. Hi, I'm Dr. Mark Rosenblum, a Sleep Psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience. I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), the gold standard for treating insomnia. If you'd like to know more about CBT-I and how I can help you sleep better, feel free to reach out to me.
Has sleeping turned into a struggle? Are you tossing and turning at night or having trouble falling or staying asleep? Are you a night owl who finds it hard to get to bed on time? Maybe your sleep issues are starting to affect your health, mood, or how you function during the day. Perhaps you hoped your sleep problems would go away this summer. Hi, I'm Dr. Mark Rosenblum, a Sleep Psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience. I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), the gold standard for treating insomnia. If you'd like to know more about CBT-I and how I can help you sleep better, feel free to reach out to me.
(614) 963-2640 View (614) 963-2640
Photo of Karen Schneller, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Schneller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212
You are living a daily battle in your head about what you can eat, how much you should exercise, if you are worthy of taking up space. You are consumed by counting calories and by the negative voice inside that tells you, you’ll never be good enough or thin enough, smart enough or pretty enough. You are fed up with how the society/culture tells you how you should look and feel and behave. Your behaviors have you feeling exhausted and depleted and you wonder how you can go on another day. Others may think you have it all together on the outside, but the mental torture inside is killing you and feel like your life is shrinking.
You are living a daily battle in your head about what you can eat, how much you should exercise, if you are worthy of taking up space. You are consumed by counting calories and by the negative voice inside that tells you, you’ll never be good enough or thin enough, smart enough or pretty enough. You are fed up with how the society/culture tells you how you should look and feel and behave. Your behaviors have you feeling exhausted and depleted and you wonder how you can go on another day. Others may think you have it all together on the outside, but the mental torture inside is killing you and feel like your life is shrinking.
(614) 363-6187 View (614) 363-6187
Photo of Katie Mullin, IMFT-S, LICDC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Mullin
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT-S, LICDC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Waitlist for new clients
People try to make sense of their world as they perceive it. This is why people struggle with depression, anxiety, emotional regulation and expression, addiction, etc. Overall, I believe people want to understand what makes them who they are. Through understanding their struggles and being able to choose different ways of thinking, acting, and feeling, people can learn to be the best version of themselves.
People try to make sense of their world as they perceive it. This is why people struggle with depression, anxiety, emotional regulation and expression, addiction, etc. Overall, I believe people want to understand what makes them who they are. Through understanding their struggles and being able to choose different ways of thinking, acting, and feeling, people can learn to be the best version of themselves.
(614) 591-7426 View (614) 591-7426
Photo of Sarah Morris - Bluestone Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bluestone Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Are you noticing patterns in your life that keep preventing you from moving forward? Do you want to address deeper issues that are holding you back? I can help you on that journey towards healing and transformation, so that you can get back to engaging in life with confidence and clarity. I work with people who want to understand themselves better and see things from a different perspective. My goal is to help you discover your inner wisdom that already lies within, so that you can become your own source of healing and growth. If you are ready to develop a new relationship with yourself, then we might be a good fit for each other!
Are you noticing patterns in your life that keep preventing you from moving forward? Do you want to address deeper issues that are holding you back? I can help you on that journey towards healing and transformation, so that you can get back to engaging in life with confidence and clarity. I work with people who want to understand themselves better and see things from a different perspective. My goal is to help you discover your inner wisdom that already lies within, so that you can become your own source of healing and growth. If you are ready to develop a new relationship with yourself, then we might be a good fit for each other!
(614) 407-7838 View (614) 407-7838
Photo of Alicia Jones, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Photo of Vivian L Brown, BA, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vivian L Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
Not accepting new clients
Have you always believed you were self-sufficient, able to handle any and all challenges which come your way? Are you usually the person family and friends rely on for advice or directions on how to solve their life issues? But, now you need help resolving issues of your own and your feelings of anxiety, depression and or stress are negatively impacting the relationships in your life. Being able to acknowledge that your life has become overwhelming can be the first and hardest step when beginning a journey of change and healing. The next most challenging step involves trying to determine what to do to get the help you need.
Have you always believed you were self-sufficient, able to handle any and all challenges which come your way? Are you usually the person family and friends rely on for advice or directions on how to solve their life issues? But, now you need help resolving issues of your own and your feelings of anxiety, depression and or stress are negatively impacting the relationships in your life. Being able to acknowledge that your life has become overwhelming can be the first and hardest step when beginning a journey of change and healing. The next most challenging step involves trying to determine what to do to get the help you need.
(614) 347-0908 x516 View (614) 347-0908 x516
Photo of Gillian Sapp, MSW, LSW
Gillian Sapp
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43201
Therapy with me starts with working to know yourself better and learn how your thoughts, behaviors and feelings are connected and where they are coming from. I specialize in working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, panic and ADHD. At your request, I am passionate about incorporating faith into therapy as well.
Therapy with me starts with working to know yourself better and learn how your thoughts, behaviors and feelings are connected and where they are coming from. I specialize in working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, panic and ADHD. At your request, I am passionate about incorporating faith into therapy as well.
(380) 228-6765 View (380) 228-6765
Photo of Madeline Trick, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Madeline Trick
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Not accepting new clients
Taking the first steps towards personal growth can be difficult and you should be proud of yourself for starting this journey! If you find yourself struggling with feelings of anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, anger management, burnout, perfectionism, and stress - I am here to help. It is my goal to make sure that our therapy sessions are a space that feels safe, where you feel heard, and where you are validated. It is my hope that you will leave each session having learned something about yourself and with a game plan to work on outside of our therapy sessions.
Taking the first steps towards personal growth can be difficult and you should be proud of yourself for starting this journey! If you find yourself struggling with feelings of anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, anger management, burnout, perfectionism, and stress - I am here to help. It is my goal to make sure that our therapy sessions are a space that feels safe, where you feel heard, and where you are validated. It is my hope that you will leave each session having learned something about yourself and with a game plan to work on outside of our therapy sessions.
(614) 363-2887 View (614) 363-2887
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Columbus, OH

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Columbus, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
64% Relationship Issues
64% Stress
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Columbus, OH see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Columbus?

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.