Therapists in Denver, CO

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Photo of Christine Worrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Christine Worrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80238
If you are a person who is struggling with anxiety, stress, life in general...I'd love to work with you. It's my mission to help others learn to stay connected to the moment in front of them, reduce the interference experienced from the chattering voice in their head (we all have one!), gain insight into their life which will help guide future decision making, and learn effective skills needed to take meaningful risk as they move forward pursuing their goals. Let's find more joy and fulfillment in your life based on your values as well as release painful experiences by learning to live presently with intention and purpose.
If you are a person who is struggling with anxiety, stress, life in general...I'd love to work with you. It's my mission to help others learn to stay connected to the moment in front of them, reduce the interference experienced from the chattering voice in their head (we all have one!), gain insight into their life which will help guide future decision making, and learn effective skills needed to take meaningful risk as they move forward pursuing their goals. Let's find more joy and fulfillment in your life based on your values as well as release painful experiences by learning to live presently with intention and purpose.
(720) 966-1092 View (720) 966-1092
Photo of Avery Spratt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denver, CO
Avery Spratt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFTC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
My clients often find themselves in periods of transitions, feeling misunderstood, and navigating challenges with how they relate to themselves and others. You may be struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and pressure from societal “shoulds”. Perhaps you are hoping to heal from trauma but unsure of where to begin. My individual and relational clients may also be seeking non-pathologizing support in navigating ethical non-monogamy/polyamory at any stage. Navigating the challenges of life can feel hard, scary, and at times, isolating. I am here to support you in that journey.
My clients often find themselves in periods of transitions, feeling misunderstood, and navigating challenges with how they relate to themselves and others. You may be struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and pressure from societal “shoulds”. Perhaps you are hoping to heal from trauma but unsure of where to begin. My individual and relational clients may also be seeking non-pathologizing support in navigating ethical non-monogamy/polyamory at any stage. Navigating the challenges of life can feel hard, scary, and at times, isolating. I am here to support you in that journey.
(720) 776-2596 View (720) 776-2596
Photo of Alexa McElroy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Alexa McElroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When we experience hardship without community support, we learn to defend against emotions that would be simply too much to hold alone. I identify as a pansexual genderqueer woman and I honor therapy as a space where all of our identities are important. I work with the nervous system and show up as my real, genuine self. My clients typically come to therapy when their defenses hold them back from loving relationships or a fulfilling life.
When we experience hardship without community support, we learn to defend against emotions that would be simply too much to hold alone. I identify as a pansexual genderqueer woman and I honor therapy as a space where all of our identities are important. I work with the nervous system and show up as my real, genuine self. My clients typically come to therapy when their defenses hold them back from loving relationships or a fulfilling life.
(720) 782-5840 View (720) 782-5840
Photo of Sandra Easter - Jungian Psychotherapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Denver, CO
Sandra Easter - Jungian Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
You are unique in the challenges you face and in your gifts. Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, an unrelenting sense of despair, low self-esteem, are hyper-critical of yourself, feel disconnected from life or joyless, are frustrated with work or school, have problems in your relationships, or suffer with PTSD, your experience is particular to you. I will help you discover the underlying dynamics of your symptoms and patterns in ways that allow you to transform them. Rather than merely "fixing" a problem or “fixing” yourself, you will learn how to listen to and tend what troubles you.
You are unique in the challenges you face and in your gifts. Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, an unrelenting sense of despair, low self-esteem, are hyper-critical of yourself, feel disconnected from life or joyless, are frustrated with work or school, have problems in your relationships, or suffer with PTSD, your experience is particular to you. I will help you discover the underlying dynamics of your symptoms and patterns in ways that allow you to transform them. Rather than merely "fixing" a problem or “fixing” yourself, you will learn how to listen to and tend what troubles you.
(805) 360-3845 View (805) 360-3845
Photo of Kelly Picune, LPC Intern in Denver, CO
Kelly Picune
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
“I feel like I’m not good enough.” “I don’t know how to deal with experiences from my childhood.” “I am unhappy in my relationship.” “My child is withdrawn and struggling in school.” “I am easily overwhelmed and I can’t get anything done.” If this resonates with you, I’m here to help. It is normal to struggle with emotions or experiences in life, but they don’t have to define you. I can help you build the necessary tools and skills to work through the challenges you are facing. I work with children, teens, and adults to work through trauma, self-esteem difficulties, and enhance emotional regulation.
“I feel like I’m not good enough.” “I don’t know how to deal with experiences from my childhood.” “I am unhappy in my relationship.” “My child is withdrawn and struggling in school.” “I am easily overwhelmed and I can’t get anything done.” If this resonates with you, I’m here to help. It is normal to struggle with emotions or experiences in life, but they don’t have to define you. I can help you build the necessary tools and skills to work through the challenges you are facing. I work with children, teens, and adults to work through trauma, self-esteem difficulties, and enhance emotional regulation.
(720) 802-0825 View (720) 802-0825
Photo of Ricki Walker, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Ricki Walker
Psychologist, PhD, CMPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212
I am a licensed counseling psychologist and I view my purpose in therapy as providing insight and perspective, responding compassionately to concerns, and integrating a sense of humor. I strive to help people resolve their current problems in a way that also gives them the ability to deal with stressors in the future.
I am a licensed counseling psychologist and I view my purpose in therapy as providing insight and perspective, responding compassionately to concerns, and integrating a sense of humor. I strive to help people resolve their current problems in a way that also gives them the ability to deal with stressors in the future.
(720) 640-9040 View (720) 640-9040
Photo of Allison Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Allison Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Clients work with me to find the person hidden behind the protective walls they have built up to feel safe. They need, and want, to feel close to family and friends again but are scared it might not work out in their favor. Their goals are often to love themselves, speak up for themselves, and know they are capable no matter how hard life may be in this season. My clients want to let the past be the past and have their future go the way they've envisioned for so long.
Clients work with me to find the person hidden behind the protective walls they have built up to feel safe. They need, and want, to feel close to family and friends again but are scared it might not work out in their favor. Their goals are often to love themselves, speak up for themselves, and know they are capable no matter how hard life may be in this season. My clients want to let the past be the past and have their future go the way they've envisioned for so long.
(720) 571-0537 View (720) 571-0537
Photo of David Shanley, Psychologist in Denver, CO
David Shanley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I am an energetic therapist who can help you address aspects of your life that you may think are unchangeable or too shameful to even discuss. I take a directive approach that helps you learn how to not allow your fears and anxiety to stop you from living the life you want. l get to the problem quickly and efficiently, and assign homework between sessions to facilitate progress. I work with individuals to live more meaningful lives by helping them approach, rather than avoid, those aspects of their lives and relationships that are most important to them.
I am an energetic therapist who can help you address aspects of your life that you may think are unchangeable or too shameful to even discuss. I take a directive approach that helps you learn how to not allow your fears and anxiety to stop you from living the life you want. l get to the problem quickly and efficiently, and assign homework between sessions to facilitate progress. I work with individuals to live more meaningful lives by helping them approach, rather than avoid, those aspects of their lives and relationships that are most important to them.
(720) 606-2770 View (720) 606-2770
Photo of Ashley Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Ashley Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I'm a Holistic Trauma Therapy Specialist providing both Individual & Group Therapy Sessions for Adults who may be struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Mood Swings, Poor Sleep, Dissociation, Anger Issues, Behavioral Issues, Attachment Issues, Psychosis, Ongoing or History of Trauma, Relationship Issues, as well as Grief & Loss Issues. I am trained in various treatment methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Trauma-Focused (TF) Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Holistic Therapy, Jungian Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I'm a Holistic Trauma Therapy Specialist providing both Individual & Group Therapy Sessions for Adults who may be struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Mood Swings, Poor Sleep, Dissociation, Anger Issues, Behavioral Issues, Attachment Issues, Psychosis, Ongoing or History of Trauma, Relationship Issues, as well as Grief & Loss Issues. I am trained in various treatment methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Trauma-Focused (TF) Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Holistic Therapy, Jungian Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(720) 703-9686 View (720) 703-9686
Photo of Meghan Hennessy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Meghan Hennessy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80223  (Online Only)
Do you struggle to deal with the overwhelming task of being alive? Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, confusing and incredibly anxiety provoking. If you struggle to get through the day to day, it is likely that you are dealing with a dysregulated nervous system. I specialize in helping individuals heal trauma and anxiety by way of the body, otherwise known as somatic therapy. If you are looking to heal and regulate your nervous system, look no further. I am here to support you as we move your nervous system back into regulation so that you feel a greater sense of ease, flow and joy in your life.
Do you struggle to deal with the overwhelming task of being alive? Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, confusing and incredibly anxiety provoking. If you struggle to get through the day to day, it is likely that you are dealing with a dysregulated nervous system. I specialize in helping individuals heal trauma and anxiety by way of the body, otherwise known as somatic therapy. If you are looking to heal and regulate your nervous system, look no further. I am here to support you as we move your nervous system back into regulation so that you feel a greater sense of ease, flow and joy in your life.
(303) 578-8871 View (303) 578-8871
Photo of Janice Martindale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Janice Martindale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
Are you currently struggling with anxiety, past trauma, or relationship issues and want to develop a deeper connection to self? I focus on building a safe space with each person to help encourage self-discovery, understanding, and self-compassion. My hope is that you are able to take away an increased understanding of yourself and how to navigate life's challenges and stressors. I believe in the innate ability and wisdom of each person's healing process and hope to help you on your journey!
Are you currently struggling with anxiety, past trauma, or relationship issues and want to develop a deeper connection to self? I focus on building a safe space with each person to help encourage self-discovery, understanding, and self-compassion. My hope is that you are able to take away an increased understanding of yourself and how to navigate life's challenges and stressors. I believe in the innate ability and wisdom of each person's healing process and hope to help you on your journey!
(720) 674-8911 View (720) 674-8911
Photo of Tj Dubovich, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Denver, CO
Tj Dubovich
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
As a marriage and family therapist, I see relationships and the structures in which we exist as a source of healing and potential for growth – regardless if you are an individual, couple, or family system. I firmly believe in a solution-focused approach, in that everyone has the strength and resilience to find the answers to their concerns. I will be your guide in exploring and building on what is working and providing tools and strategies to improve what is not.
As a marriage and family therapist, I see relationships and the structures in which we exist as a source of healing and potential for growth – regardless if you are an individual, couple, or family system. I firmly believe in a solution-focused approach, in that everyone has the strength and resilience to find the answers to their concerns. I will be your guide in exploring and building on what is working and providing tools and strategies to improve what is not.
(720) 893-4155 View (720) 893-4155
Photo of Nadine O Ryser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Nadine O Ryser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Are you ready to pull yourself out of the hole you've been living in? Are you struggling to heal from on or multiple experiences, that has diluted your ability to remain strong? I am confident that together we can work to equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, addiction, or PTSD, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey.
Are you ready to pull yourself out of the hole you've been living in? Are you struggling to heal from on or multiple experiences, that has diluted your ability to remain strong? I am confident that together we can work to equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, addiction, or PTSD, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey.
(303) 847-0186 View (303) 847-0186
Photo of Kimbalie Commissiong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Kimbalie Commissiong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I have been working with clients addressing anxiety through my work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist for the past 20 years in a variety of settings and therapeutic roles, including as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor, Behavioral Health Case Manager, Crisis Counselor and Psychotherapist in private practice . Anxiety is one of the most common mental conditions.
I have been working with clients addressing anxiety through my work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist for the past 20 years in a variety of settings and therapeutic roles, including as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor, Behavioral Health Case Manager, Crisis Counselor and Psychotherapist in private practice . Anxiety is one of the most common mental conditions.
(720) 307-3721 View (720) 307-3721
Photo of Benjamin Taylor Finlayson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Benjamin Taylor Finlayson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205
With advanced practice and research in relationships, my client is someone who recognizes the intricate tapestry of their own experiences and seeks a compassionate therapist to navigate the complexities of their inner world. They may come to me with a multitude of issues, but at the heart of it, they are persons yearning for understanding, acceptance, and meaningful connections. In their quest for healing and growth, my clients often grapple with challenge such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and relationship distress.
With advanced practice and research in relationships, my client is someone who recognizes the intricate tapestry of their own experiences and seeks a compassionate therapist to navigate the complexities of their inner world. They may come to me with a multitude of issues, but at the heart of it, they are persons yearning for understanding, acceptance, and meaningful connections. In their quest for healing and growth, my clients often grapple with challenge such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and relationship distress.
(720) 815-4166 View (720) 815-4166
Photo of Soraya Orr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Soraya Orr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Whether you are new to therapy or returning again, I’m proud of you for taking this step and I'm here for you. We all have a wide range of challenges and concerns and may find it easier to discuss our lives and emotions in a space that feels safe and non-judgmental. I have experience working with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, racial and sexual identity, career concerns, OCD, and relationship conflicts.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning again, I’m proud of you for taking this step and I'm here for you. We all have a wide range of challenges and concerns and may find it easier to discuss our lives and emotions in a space that feels safe and non-judgmental. I have experience working with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, racial and sexual identity, career concerns, OCD, and relationship conflicts.
(720) 783-1674 View (720) 783-1674
Photo of Janet Kelty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Janet Kelty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80230  (Online Only)
I believe we hold the power and intuition to change our lives and live more joyfully. As Joseph Campbell said, “We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in joy.” Sometimes we just need some guidance to move forward. If you are struggling to feel better about yourself and life or heal from past experiences, you are not alone. I would like to offer my knowledge and empathic therapeutic style to empower and support you in your journey for more peace, understanding, and healing.
I believe we hold the power and intuition to change our lives and live more joyfully. As Joseph Campbell said, “We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in joy.” Sometimes we just need some guidance to move forward. If you are struggling to feel better about yourself and life or heal from past experiences, you are not alone. I would like to offer my knowledge and empathic therapeutic style to empower and support you in your journey for more peace, understanding, and healing.
(720) 605-3897 View (720) 605-3897
Photo of Tiffany Costello, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Tiffany Costello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Healing and growth takes place in the context of relationships - both in our relationship with ourselves, and in our relationships with others. Unfortunately, sometimes our relationships become distant, disconnected and a place of conflict, leaving us with unmet needs and just feeling “stuck.” We don’t feel safe asking for what we need, and maybe don’t even know what we need ourselves. The therapeutic relationship in counseling provides an authentic and safe place in which healing can begin to take place.
Healing and growth takes place in the context of relationships - both in our relationship with ourselves, and in our relationships with others. Unfortunately, sometimes our relationships become distant, disconnected and a place of conflict, leaving us with unmet needs and just feeling “stuck.” We don’t feel safe asking for what we need, and maybe don’t even know what we need ourselves. The therapeutic relationship in counseling provides an authentic and safe place in which healing can begin to take place.
(720) 586-4328 View (720) 586-4328
Photo of Lucia Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lucia Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
Are you queer and struggling with body image and food? Or just feeling disconnected from your body? Are you looking for a therapist who gets it—who’s been there? I am an eating disorder therapist who is also queer. Believe it to not, the LGBTQ community is hit hardest when it comes to struggling with our relationship with our bodies. Many of us have had eating disorders, and even more of us struggle significantly with body image. As a trained somatic therapist, I hope to support you to have a better relationship with your body, and to understand the language it speaks—including how trauma may have manifested in your nervous system.
Are you queer and struggling with body image and food? Or just feeling disconnected from your body? Are you looking for a therapist who gets it—who’s been there? I am an eating disorder therapist who is also queer. Believe it to not, the LGBTQ community is hit hardest when it comes to struggling with our relationship with our bodies. Many of us have had eating disorders, and even more of us struggle significantly with body image. As a trained somatic therapist, I hope to support you to have a better relationship with your body, and to understand the language it speaks—including how trauma may have manifested in your nervous system.
(720) 358-8869 View (720) 358-8869
Photo of Stefanie Raccuglia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Stefanie Raccuglia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
I help ambitious, creative, and compassionate professional women ready to make an impact on the world, but struggle with trusting their own instincts. If you are feeling misunderstood, alone, and/or fighting excessive perfectionism and self-judgement, I will support you in uncovering the tools you already possess for authentically connecting with your inner strength and wisdom. Unlike reading self-help blogs that don't work or struggling with self destructive habits and feeling badly about yourself, I will give you specific techniques to help you make better decisions, connect with your body and feel more empowered.
I help ambitious, creative, and compassionate professional women ready to make an impact on the world, but struggle with trusting their own instincts. If you are feeling misunderstood, alone, and/or fighting excessive perfectionism and self-judgement, I will support you in uncovering the tools you already possess for authentically connecting with your inner strength and wisdom. Unlike reading self-help blogs that don't work or struggling with self destructive habits and feeling badly about yourself, I will give you specific techniques to help you make better decisions, connect with your body and feel more empowered.
(720) 799-0058 View (720) 799-0058

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Denver, CO

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Self Esteem
71% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Denver, CO see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Denver?

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.