Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Sopagna Eap-Braje
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I have a compassionate, science-based, and direct approach toward helping people find psychological relief. I am passionate about helping people achieve the most authentic version of themselves. By gently challenging you to question and shift your mental framework, I want to help you make decisions and take actions that are consistent with your values. The journey towards change must start with compassion. Only when we feel seen and heard, can we begin the process of transformation.
I have a compassionate, science-based, and direct approach toward helping people find psychological relief. I am passionate about helping people achieve the most authentic version of themselves. By gently challenging you to question and shift your mental framework, I want to help you make decisions and take actions that are consistent with your values. The journey towards change must start with compassion. Only when we feel seen and heard, can we begin the process of transformation.
Jeanne Melvin
Occupational Therapist, OTRL, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I help clients learn how to manage chronic pain without daily pain medications and to help clients with sleep disorders (all types) learn to sleep deeply and wake rested without sleeping pills. I also help clients with complex medical diagnoses to develop wellness programs. I have been the Director of four chronic pain program. I have been providing Behavioral Sleep Medicine therapy or the UCLA Sleep Medicine Programs for 16 years. My approach to correcting sleep disorders encompasses neurocognitive self-regulation, mindfulness, breathing training, mind control to stop mind racing,sleep education and classic CBT for insomnia.
I help clients learn how to manage chronic pain without daily pain medications and to help clients with sleep disorders (all types) learn to sleep deeply and wake rested without sleeping pills. I also help clients with complex medical diagnoses to develop wellness programs. I have been the Director of four chronic pain program. I have been providing Behavioral Sleep Medicine therapy or the UCLA Sleep Medicine Programs for 16 years. My approach to correcting sleep disorders encompasses neurocognitive self-regulation, mindfulness, breathing training, mind control to stop mind racing,sleep education and classic CBT for insomnia.
Kathryn Sparks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
With a background in the entertainment business, I have always been fascinated with other people and their stories. I see therapy as a creative, collaborative process in which I work closely with individuals, couples and families to find new ways of understanding their unique narrative. I believe I can help clients find acceptance, empowerment and purpose.
With a background in the entertainment business, I have always been fascinated with other people and their stories. I see therapy as a creative, collaborative process in which I work closely with individuals, couples and families to find new ways of understanding their unique narrative. I believe I can help clients find acceptance, empowerment and purpose.
Margaret Dunham
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
CONNECT WITH YOURSELF TO CONNECT WITH THE WORLD AROUND YOU."
I believe that therapy is a means to illuminate your internal world while helping you to connect with others.
Through dialogue, our sessions will focus on clarifying your understanding of your own experiences. This can be the beginning of learning how to simply be with yourself and make meaning of yourself in the world.
CONNECT WITH YOURSELF TO CONNECT WITH THE WORLD AROUND YOU."
I believe that therapy is a means to illuminate your internal world while helping you to connect with others.
Through dialogue, our sessions will focus on clarifying your understanding of your own experiences. This can be the beginning of learning how to simply be with yourself and make meaning of yourself in the world.
Maura Tousignant
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
You’re looking for a therapist because: you feel stuck due to past trauma, you find yourself preoccupied with concerns about your partner, you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed by work or school, you are longing to be more connected to your authentic and full self. I’m here to help you with this! I provide a warm and focused presence as we work together to create positive and long-lasting change.
You’re looking for a therapist because: you feel stuck due to past trauma, you find yourself preoccupied with concerns about your partner, you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed by work or school, you are longing to be more connected to your authentic and full self. I’m here to help you with this! I provide a warm and focused presence as we work together to create positive and long-lasting change.
Anna Major
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Your past pain is real and it is common for that past pain to hurt in the present. You don't have to "just accept it". I have success working with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, domestic abuse, maternal mental health issues, family discord, and also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and families. My clients trust that I can help them overcome whatever their challenges are. One of my passions is Prenatal Bonding and psychology, enhancing the bond between mother and child to improve birth outcomes and reduce adverse postpartum experiences.
Your past pain is real and it is common for that past pain to hurt in the present. You don't have to "just accept it". I have success working with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, domestic abuse, maternal mental health issues, family discord, and also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and families. My clients trust that I can help them overcome whatever their challenges are. One of my passions is Prenatal Bonding and psychology, enhancing the bond between mother and child to improve birth outcomes and reduce adverse postpartum experiences.
Sophie Halavy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My goal as your therapist is to guide you in developing a deeper understanding of your identity, empowering you to make life choices that align with your values. Collaboratively, we will explore how past experiences have shaped present challenges, examining their impact on your thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. Within our therapeutic relationship, I prioritize authenticity, humor, warmth, and a sense of safety. This commitment creates a safe space for you to further your self-awareness and develop skills necessary to foster positive behavioral and emotional changes.
My goal as your therapist is to guide you in developing a deeper understanding of your identity, empowering you to make life choices that align with your values. Collaboratively, we will explore how past experiences have shaped present challenges, examining their impact on your thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. Within our therapeutic relationship, I prioritize authenticity, humor, warmth, and a sense of safety. This commitment creates a safe space for you to further your self-awareness and develop skills necessary to foster positive behavioral and emotional changes.
Eveline Smilack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Do problems feel unmanageable? Are relationships growing more stressful? Sometimes life can be challenging. It can be difficult to know how to move forward. My practice is dedicated to listening carefully and offering insight with compassion and care. I offer a trusting supportive space to understand and heal emotional experiences, develop nurturing relationships, and move towards fulfilling your personal goals. Whatever your reasons for wanting to talk to someone, therapy can help you better understand your experiences. Let psychotherapy help you discover your own potential. Starting the conversation is easier than you think. Reach out to explore the possibilities.
Do problems feel unmanageable? Are relationships growing more stressful? Sometimes life can be challenging. It can be difficult to know how to move forward. My practice is dedicated to listening carefully and offering insight with compassion and care. I offer a trusting supportive space to understand and heal emotional experiences, develop nurturing relationships, and move towards fulfilling your personal goals. Whatever your reasons for wanting to talk to someone, therapy can help you better understand your experiences. Let psychotherapy help you discover your own potential. Starting the conversation is easier than you think. Reach out to explore the possibilities.
Silver Lake Psychology--West LA
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Maria-Elena Kolovos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about accompanying people in their efforts to attain well-being. As a social worker, I honor the power of nurturing relationships to facilitate healing and promote positive change. In my prior career as an international human rights and immigration lawyer, I worked closely with communities marginalized by systems of power and privilege. The pillars of social justice--respect, care, recognition, and empathy--sustained my work of justly hearing and responding to diverse perspectives and needs; these same values inform my social work practice. I especially appreciate the impact of our collective and historical contexts.
I am passionate about accompanying people in their efforts to attain well-being. As a social worker, I honor the power of nurturing relationships to facilitate healing and promote positive change. In my prior career as an international human rights and immigration lawyer, I worked closely with communities marginalized by systems of power and privilege. The pillars of social justice--respect, care, recognition, and empathy--sustained my work of justly hearing and responding to diverse perspectives and needs; these same values inform my social work practice. I especially appreciate the impact of our collective and historical contexts.
Marion Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you looking for help to change a situation in your life that has become intolerable? I help people to find a different understanding and new perspectives to approach old problems. Examining symbols in dreams, fantasies and creative productions as well as Sandplay are powerful ways to express feelings that have no words yet. Representing these unnamed feelings in a playful, creative way can help to reach a deeper understanding of yourself and your current difficulties in life. Finding your own inner resources and discover unknown potentials from within provides a new, unique direction that ultimately may transform your life.
Are you looking for help to change a situation in your life that has become intolerable? I help people to find a different understanding and new perspectives to approach old problems. Examining symbols in dreams, fantasies and creative productions as well as Sandplay are powerful ways to express feelings that have no words yet. Representing these unnamed feelings in a playful, creative way can help to reach a deeper understanding of yourself and your current difficulties in life. Finding your own inner resources and discover unknown potentials from within provides a new, unique direction that ultimately may transform your life.
15 Second Videos
Maura Tousignant
Anna Major
Brandon Gross
Tanya Gaum
Andrew Iskandar
Adelaide Rowe Barroso
Daniel C. Slavin
Allison Zeen- Eating Disorder Therapist
Darlene Lancer
Eric L. Strang
Ariana Kiefer
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Alice Kuhns
Hannah Schaler
Michele Hahn Relationship Specialist
Alex Frank
Laura Katz
Leah Matson Ph.D.
EMDR Trauma Therapy
Madeleine (Maddie) Zimmerman
Kyana Barakett
Maria Gray
Savannah Shizuko Okada
Molly Schaffer
Dan Sussman
Tracy Kovacs Bevington
Caitlin Blue
Angela Repetti Miller
Bronwyn Wrobel
Coaching With Rachel
EMDR Collective, Founder Dawn Delgado, CEDS, EMDR
Richard J Lautenbacher
Quincee Gideon
Araceli Hirtle
Kevin Boyd
Karla Arriaran
J. Lancaster
Karen Clay Beck
Shana Bujake
Jeffrey Nord
Nikki Chinen
Jacob Kajiwara
Allan Silverstein
Kendra Delahooke
Darcy Manav
Natalie Feinblatt
Lories Khoury
Eri Nagai Ashlock
Katie Merrill
Kim MacKay
Jamie Rudden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
Jim Borgardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
As your therapist, I can help you find the solutions to problems that seem impossible for you to solve. I can help you to reduce those symptoms that brought you to me in the first place. Together we can develop behavioral changes that make life more enjoyable. Once involved, you will feel less helpless, overwhelmed, or frightened. I provide a safe space in which you can articulate your difficulties, and support for the efforts you are willing to make to turn things around. From here you will find the opportunity for personal growth. Please visit http://therapy.borgardt.com.
As your therapist, I can help you find the solutions to problems that seem impossible for you to solve. I can help you to reduce those symptoms that brought you to me in the first place. Together we can develop behavioral changes that make life more enjoyable. Once involved, you will feel less helpless, overwhelmed, or frightened. I provide a safe space in which you can articulate your difficulties, and support for the efforts you are willing to make to turn things around. From here you will find the opportunity for personal growth. Please visit http://therapy.borgardt.com.
Brandon Gross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” ― C.G. Jung. I specialize in helping creatives and high-performing individuals in their 20s and 30s navigate emotional challenges, major life changes, and live their most authentic lives. I address issues that include: Isolation and Loneliness, Grief and Loss, Existential Crises, Values Clarification (i.e. figuring out “what matters”), Navigating Life Transitions (e.g. College to Career, Parenting)l, Anxiety and Depression, Communication Breakdown, Creative Block, Career Gridlock and Relationship Challenges. I also specialize in Men's Issues.
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” ― C.G. Jung. I specialize in helping creatives and high-performing individuals in their 20s and 30s navigate emotional challenges, major life changes, and live their most authentic lives. I address issues that include: Isolation and Loneliness, Grief and Loss, Existential Crises, Values Clarification (i.e. figuring out “what matters”), Navigating Life Transitions (e.g. College to Career, Parenting)l, Anxiety and Depression, Communication Breakdown, Creative Block, Career Gridlock and Relationship Challenges. I also specialize in Men's Issues.
Abby J Kesden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you are grappling with feelings of depression, anxiety or having trouble with your relationships or at work, I can offer you help. I have worked with individuals and couples as a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice for almost 25 years. Happiness and a sense of well being come from enjoying satisfying relationships, pursuing career goals, engaging with family and friends and expressing your playfulness and creativity. I have helped many pateints to achieve this kind of fulfillment in a safe and supportive environment. I look forward to hearing from you. Please call or email me for a consultation.
If you are grappling with feelings of depression, anxiety or having trouble with your relationships or at work, I can offer you help. I have worked with individuals and couples as a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice for almost 25 years. Happiness and a sense of well being come from enjoying satisfying relationships, pursuing career goals, engaging with family and friends and expressing your playfulness and creativity. I have helped many pateints to achieve this kind of fulfillment in a safe and supportive environment. I look forward to hearing from you. Please call or email me for a consultation.
Don M Goodman Inc
Psychologist, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
Pendry Haines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
I understand the power of mind-body connection and look for ways to address this in therapy. I love to think outside the box; I believe in the healing power of nature, art, music, meditation/mindfulness and body-centered practices. I highly recommend trying Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing for trauma. I have extensive experience working cross-culturally with people from diverse backgrounds. I will provide a judgment-free safe space for you to tell your story.
I understand the power of mind-body connection and look for ways to address this in therapy. I love to think outside the box; I believe in the healing power of nature, art, music, meditation/mindfulness and body-centered practices. I highly recommend trying Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing for trauma. I have extensive experience working cross-culturally with people from diverse backgrounds. I will provide a judgment-free safe space for you to tell your story.
Debra Brunsten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I work with adult individuals, couples and families to help you cope with not only life's daily struggles, but also provide support for crisis, traumas, challenging life transitions and relationship issues. I combine narrative and somatic therapies, as well as EMDR (trauma work), to help you decrease anxiety and depression, manage stress, cope with challenges and enhance your creativity and productivity. My approach is very conversational, interactive and solution- based. In contrast to heavy analysis, I strive to uncover and cultivate my client's strengths, abilities and values to help them overcome their problems.
I work with adult individuals, couples and families to help you cope with not only life's daily struggles, but also provide support for crisis, traumas, challenging life transitions and relationship issues. I combine narrative and somatic therapies, as well as EMDR (trauma work), to help you decrease anxiety and depression, manage stress, cope with challenges and enhance your creativity and productivity. My approach is very conversational, interactive and solution- based. In contrast to heavy analysis, I strive to uncover and cultivate my client's strengths, abilities and values to help them overcome their problems.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
Elizabeth Lauber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
Throughout life, we all must examine painful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction and joy. Obstacles may stand in the way of our leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or powerless to take vital steps, make decisions, work toward goals, and improve relationships.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Santa Monica, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Grief |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
58% | Aetna |
48% | Cigna and Evernorth |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Monica?
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
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.
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.
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.