Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

Photo of Dana Demchak, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Dana Demchak
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
Have you had trauma or relationships in your life that you are struggling to move past? Are you living with constant anxiety, stress, and/or depression? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community looking for a safe, understanding environment to discuss freely who you are? Whatever brings you to therapy, I would be honored to help you find a way forward. We can collaborate to understand what is not working for you, how it came to be, and how we can find a path through together.
Have you had trauma or relationships in your life that you are struggling to move past? Are you living with constant anxiety, stress, and/or depression? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community looking for a safe, understanding environment to discuss freely who you are? Whatever brings you to therapy, I would be honored to help you find a way forward. We can collaborate to understand what is not working for you, how it came to be, and how we can find a path through together.
(734) 206-7130 View (734) 206-7130
Photo of Kim Bakhai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Kim Bakhai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel as though life has been full of struggles? Did you experience a loss or something stressful that you can’t seem to move past? Do you possibly feel like you lost touch with who you really are? Fear, or mistrust may be familiar. You may relate to physical pain, fatigue, or tension. Possibly your strategies for managing help but lack the shift you are longing for. I create a space to feel safe(r) reclaiming your capabilities. I welcome diversity including all body sizes, races, cultures, sexualities, and genders.
Do you feel as though life has been full of struggles? Did you experience a loss or something stressful that you can’t seem to move past? Do you possibly feel like you lost touch with who you really are? Fear, or mistrust may be familiar. You may relate to physical pain, fatigue, or tension. Possibly your strategies for managing help but lack the shift you are longing for. I create a space to feel safe(r) reclaiming your capabilities. I welcome diversity including all body sizes, races, cultures, sexualities, and genders.
(734) 887-1144 View (734) 887-1144
Photo of Becky Raubenolt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Becky Raubenolt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I believe in meeting you where you are at in life and developing a plan that is tailored to meet your specific needs. Every individual is unique and requires a different approach to reach their goals. It is my opinion that the best way to begin therapy is through empathy and a true understanding of someone's story in order to build a powerful therapeutic alliance, create trust and develop rapport. My approach as a therapist tends to be somewhat non traditional, informal and laid back. You are the expert of your life. My role is to listen and understand in order to help you develop confidence and skills to conquer life's challenges.
I believe in meeting you where you are at in life and developing a plan that is tailored to meet your specific needs. Every individual is unique and requires a different approach to reach their goals. It is my opinion that the best way to begin therapy is through empathy and a true understanding of someone's story in order to build a powerful therapeutic alliance, create trust and develop rapport. My approach as a therapist tends to be somewhat non traditional, informal and laid back. You are the expert of your life. My role is to listen and understand in order to help you develop confidence and skills to conquer life's challenges.
(734) 887-1526 View (734) 887-1526
Photo of Paula Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Paula Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Trying to find the right therapist for you or someone in your family is a highly personal decision and one which requires careful consideration. My goal is to make psychotherapy a positive, productive experience for you by using a highly interactive approach and by providing a supportive, non-judgmental environment for exploring issues of deep concern and sensitivity. I am committed to assisting you in learning to face life's challenges in a personally rewarding way.
Trying to find the right therapist for you or someone in your family is a highly personal decision and one which requires careful consideration. My goal is to make psychotherapy a positive, productive experience for you by using a highly interactive approach and by providing a supportive, non-judgmental environment for exploring issues of deep concern and sensitivity. I am committed to assisting you in learning to face life's challenges in a personally rewarding way.
(734) 335-1125 View (734) 335-1125
Photo of Refreshing Waters Counseling . Sheila Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ann Arbor, MI
Refreshing Waters Counseling . Sheila Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Are you ready to move forward in your life, free from circumstances and emotions that have held you back? Making the investment in your wellbeing can help you become the person you want to be, living the life you hoped for. Risk and change are scary ideas, but together we can examine what is holding you back and develop a plan that will lead to positive, lasting life changes. So often people live a compromised life that leaves them feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. At RWCC our passion is to help you overcome barriers and make changes towards a more satisfying life for you and your family.
Are you ready to move forward in your life, free from circumstances and emotions that have held you back? Making the investment in your wellbeing can help you become the person you want to be, living the life you hoped for. Risk and change are scary ideas, but together we can examine what is holding you back and develop a plan that will lead to positive, lasting life changes. So often people live a compromised life that leaves them feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. At RWCC our passion is to help you overcome barriers and make changes towards a more satisfying life for you and your family.
(810) 775-5165 View (810) 775-5165
Photo of Laura Sagolla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Laura Sagolla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
You need not carry your worries, pain, or sadness alone. I am here to help you tolerate and accept your unwanted thoughts and feelings at the same time that you move toward the life you've always wanted to live. In a supportive, nonjudgmental environment, we will work together to make improvements, however small, in mood, thinking, relating, and coping. I believe there is a place for humor and play in therapy, even amidst the painful thoughts and feelings bound to arise.
You need not carry your worries, pain, or sadness alone. I am here to help you tolerate and accept your unwanted thoughts and feelings at the same time that you move toward the life you've always wanted to live. In a supportive, nonjudgmental environment, we will work together to make improvements, however small, in mood, thinking, relating, and coping. I believe there is a place for humor and play in therapy, even amidst the painful thoughts and feelings bound to arise.
(810) 505-5174 View (810) 505-5174
Photo of Lucinda Orwoll, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Lucinda Orwoll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I combine traditional talk therapy with integrative and holistic approaches that calm the nervous system, access inner knowledge, strengthen the Self, and develop new ways of coping with challenges. These can include breath and relaxation, guided imagery, meditation, and energy psychology. I also teach cognitive behavioral techniques to change harmful thought patterns. Based in current brain science and ancient wisdom teachings, I help people utilize the healthy and mature parts of themselves to become more conscious, integrated, and whole.
I combine traditional talk therapy with integrative and holistic approaches that calm the nervous system, access inner knowledge, strengthen the Self, and develop new ways of coping with challenges. These can include breath and relaxation, guided imagery, meditation, and energy psychology. I also teach cognitive behavioral techniques to change harmful thought patterns. Based in current brain science and ancient wisdom teachings, I help people utilize the healthy and mature parts of themselves to become more conscious, integrated, and whole.
(734) 719-1384 View (734) 719-1384
Photo of Marisa Carpinelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Marisa Carpinelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Marisa is mindfulness-based psychotherapist who works to provide a safe, collaborative, and affirming space centered around each client's needs. Marisa takes great care to create a nonjudgemental space where clients can learn, grow, and discover a valued life. Marisa’s style is empathic, warm, and collaborative and she puts her clients quickly at ease with her authentic style.
Marisa is mindfulness-based psychotherapist who works to provide a safe, collaborative, and affirming space centered around each client's needs. Marisa takes great care to create a nonjudgemental space where clients can learn, grow, and discover a valued life. Marisa’s style is empathic, warm, and collaborative and she puts her clients quickly at ease with her authentic style.
(872) 666-9645 View (872) 666-9645
Photo of Tiffany Hong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Tiffany Hong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello there. My name is Tiffany and I would love to connect with you to see whether we’re a good fit. As a clinical social worker, I take a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy. This means that I focus on you as a whole person and tailor my therapeutic work to your unique goals. My practice is grounded in an intersectional, culturally sensitive framework because I believe that our identities and experiences shape how we feel about ourselves, others, and our world.
Hello there. My name is Tiffany and I would love to connect with you to see whether we’re a good fit. As a clinical social worker, I take a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy. This means that I focus on you as a whole person and tailor my therapeutic work to your unique goals. My practice is grounded in an intersectional, culturally sensitive framework because I believe that our identities and experiences shape how we feel about ourselves, others, and our world.
(734) 280-3266 View (734) 280-3266
Photo of Dr. David M Brush, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Dr. David M Brush
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
If you are wondering about changes or difficulties in your or a family member's thinking skills (e.g., memory, attention, problem solving, language, processing speed, visuospatial abilities), then a neuropsychological evaluation may help you understand the contributing factors and adjust the environment, processes, or relationships that are leading to these difficulties. Through interview, testing, and consulting, we can develop a deep understanding of cognitive and emotional strengths and weaknesses that can inform an effective treatment plan and establish a baseline of current functioning.
If you are wondering about changes or difficulties in your or a family member's thinking skills (e.g., memory, attention, problem solving, language, processing speed, visuospatial abilities), then a neuropsychological evaluation may help you understand the contributing factors and adjust the environment, processes, or relationships that are leading to these difficulties. Through interview, testing, and consulting, we can develop a deep understanding of cognitive and emotional strengths and weaknesses that can inform an effective treatment plan and establish a baseline of current functioning.
(734) 808-3554 View (734) 808-3554
Photo of Susie Thompson-Doering, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Susie Thompson-Doering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Do you find yourself overwhelmed with midlife struggles no matter what you do? Maybe this season of life isn’t quite what you expected. The challenges in midlife can leave you feeling stressed, depleted, lonely & lost. You might feel unsettled or realize that the strategies you used to use to get through your days aren’t working for you anymore. Anxiety and depression are creeping in. You’re distracted, frustrated, tired and irritable and just want to be heard, seen and understood. You’re dealing with empty nest changes, menopause changes, relationship changes, even changes due to loss and grief. That’s a lot of change to navigate.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed with midlife struggles no matter what you do? Maybe this season of life isn’t quite what you expected. The challenges in midlife can leave you feeling stressed, depleted, lonely & lost. You might feel unsettled or realize that the strategies you used to use to get through your days aren’t working for you anymore. Anxiety and depression are creeping in. You’re distracted, frustrated, tired and irritable and just want to be heard, seen and understood. You’re dealing with empty nest changes, menopause changes, relationship changes, even changes due to loss and grief. That’s a lot of change to navigate.
(734) 404-7679 View (734) 404-7679
Photo of Andrea Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Andrea Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I enjoy helping adults and teens over 16 make positive changes in their lives around mental health, wellness, relationships, family, school and career. I have worked in DEI, wellness, integrative medicine and perinatal mental health settings, which helps to inform my work with parents, students and anyone who wants to integrate past experiences, become more resilient and step more fully into life's choices.
Welcome! I enjoy helping adults and teens over 16 make positive changes in their lives around mental health, wellness, relationships, family, school and career. I have worked in DEI, wellness, integrative medicine and perinatal mental health settings, which helps to inform my work with parents, students and anyone who wants to integrate past experiences, become more resilient and step more fully into life's choices.
(734) 371-8670 View (734) 371-8670
Photo of Lindsey Beaver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Lindsey Beaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Have you ever found yourself unable to feel better, despite past attempts to think your way out and move forward? Like a cycle you can't escape? Is it sometimes hard to "human"- to socialize, get yourself to focus, to navigate sensory overwhelm, or even to communicate to others? Maybe you've seen therapists in the past who seemed to be puzzled by you or not on your wavelength so you felt stuck. Are you looking to get to the root of these challenges and heal them for good instead of chronically coping just to get by? Do you need to make a change, but don't want to simply talk about your feelings? The good news is everyone can heal.
Have you ever found yourself unable to feel better, despite past attempts to think your way out and move forward? Like a cycle you can't escape? Is it sometimes hard to "human"- to socialize, get yourself to focus, to navigate sensory overwhelm, or even to communicate to others? Maybe you've seen therapists in the past who seemed to be puzzled by you or not on your wavelength so you felt stuck. Are you looking to get to the root of these challenges and heal them for good instead of chronically coping just to get by? Do you need to make a change, but don't want to simply talk about your feelings? The good news is everyone can heal.
(734) 724-5168 View (734) 724-5168
Photo of Natalie Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Natalie Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Waitlist for new clients
My focus in therapy is to explore areas that have caused you pain and suffering and help you to achieve greater self-awareness and personal growth. Through a highly collaborative approach we will work together to find answers for you.
My focus in therapy is to explore areas that have caused you pain and suffering and help you to achieve greater self-awareness and personal growth. Through a highly collaborative approach we will work together to find answers for you.
(248) 985-8377 View (248) 985-8377
Photo of Dr. Kelly Tatarelli-Mullins, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Dr. Kelly Tatarelli-Mullins
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LMSW , PsyD, LLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Welcome, I'm Dr. Kelly. I am a welcoming, approachable, and compassionate psychologist whose focus is to help individuals find their way to their healthiest version of self, no matter what the obstacles. I use a comprehensive/integrative therapeutic coaching approach to help individuals overcome barriers, change self-destructive behaviors, resolve painful emotions, find effective coping strategies, and improve relationships, most importantly with self.
Welcome, I'm Dr. Kelly. I am a welcoming, approachable, and compassionate psychologist whose focus is to help individuals find their way to their healthiest version of self, no matter what the obstacles. I use a comprehensive/integrative therapeutic coaching approach to help individuals overcome barriers, change self-destructive behaviors, resolve painful emotions, find effective coping strategies, and improve relationships, most importantly with self.
(810) 216-5156 View (810) 216-5156
Photo of Debbie Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Debbie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Are you a stressed-out UM student or are you dealing with a major life overhaul? Maybe brand new at the job, uprooted by a move across country or bombarded by the pressures of campus life? An exhausted new parent, navigating tricky relationships with adult kids or reinventing yourself after retirement? Our lives are full of change and change is tough but a tremendous chance for reflection and growth. Learning to manage these changes intentionally and effectively will pave the way for what comes next.
Are you a stressed-out UM student or are you dealing with a major life overhaul? Maybe brand new at the job, uprooted by a move across country or bombarded by the pressures of campus life? An exhausted new parent, navigating tricky relationships with adult kids or reinventing yourself after retirement? Our lives are full of change and change is tough but a tremendous chance for reflection and growth. Learning to manage these changes intentionally and effectively will pave the way for what comes next.
(734) 382-4938 View (734) 382-4938
Photo of Michele Thompson, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Michele Thompson
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Many people find themselves going through life on autopilot. Each day feels like an endless to-do list with an absence of feeling connected to moments that bring them joy. For individuals who have experienced trauma, simply surviving has become their way of life. Years may go by without moving toward their goals, often leading to feeling empty, numb, or hopeless. Fear of failure may lead to feeling stuck and unwilling or unable to take a step forward. Other individuals may find themselves on the other end of the spectrum, with their time spent desperately striving for perfection to prove their worth.
Many people find themselves going through life on autopilot. Each day feels like an endless to-do list with an absence of feeling connected to moments that bring them joy. For individuals who have experienced trauma, simply surviving has become their way of life. Years may go by without moving toward their goals, often leading to feeling empty, numb, or hopeless. Fear of failure may lead to feeling stuck and unwilling or unable to take a step forward. Other individuals may find themselves on the other end of the spectrum, with their time spent desperately striving for perfection to prove their worth.
(248) 629-2700 View (248) 629-2700
Photo of Beth Chapman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Beth Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My approach to the therapeutic relationship is to establish a warm, collaborative, supportive, and useful relationship that helps the client meet their personal needs for emotional growth, healthy relationships, and understanding their deep-seated reactions to their environment. I strive to meet people where they are at, without judgement, to help overcome any barriers they are facing externally or internally. I rely on establishing a relationship where all emotions/needs/fears/critiques are welcome, and everything is worth talking through in a safe space. I am committed to anti-racism, queer-friendliness, and I reject diet culture.
My approach to the therapeutic relationship is to establish a warm, collaborative, supportive, and useful relationship that helps the client meet their personal needs for emotional growth, healthy relationships, and understanding their deep-seated reactions to their environment. I strive to meet people where they are at, without judgement, to help overcome any barriers they are facing externally or internally. I rely on establishing a relationship where all emotions/needs/fears/critiques are welcome, and everything is worth talking through in a safe space. I am committed to anti-racism, queer-friendliness, and I reject diet culture.
(734) 402-8286 View (734) 402-8286
Photo of Howard M Erman, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Howard M Erman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Not accepting new clients
I designed my website, howarderman.com, for people considering psychotherapy and I think my mini-essay, Thoughts on How to Choose a Therapist, will help you even if you end up working with someone else. My own style is relaxed, engaged, sensitive and thoughtful as we explore current problems and underlying issues. I believe if our self-understanding is limited, we keep defeating ourselves in our actions, like being stuck in a hole and trying to dig our way out when that is the only action certain to get us in even deeper. With insight, support, and hard work, change begins.
I designed my website, howarderman.com, for people considering psychotherapy and I think my mini-essay, Thoughts on How to Choose a Therapist, will help you even if you end up working with someone else. My own style is relaxed, engaged, sensitive and thoughtful as we explore current problems and underlying issues. I believe if our self-understanding is limited, we keep defeating ourselves in our actions, like being stuck in a hole and trying to dig our way out when that is the only action certain to get us in even deeper. With insight, support, and hard work, change begins.
(734) 681-3266 View (734) 681-3266
Photo of Jillian Carey Messenger, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Jillian Carey Messenger
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
My clinical approach is integrative, although my interventions often focus on acceptance and self-compassion while empowering my clients to make the changes they would like to see in their lives. I firmly believe that therapy should be focused on helping you become the best version of yourself, as YOU understand it. In keeping with that goal, I take great care to ensure that therapy is affirming of all aspects of diversity and identity.
My clinical approach is integrative, although my interventions often focus on acceptance and self-compassion while empowering my clients to make the changes they would like to see in their lives. I firmly believe that therapy should be focused on helping you become the best version of yourself, as YOU understand it. In keeping with that goal, I take great care to ensure that therapy is affirming of all aspects of diversity and identity.
(734) 294-0518 View (734) 294-0518

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
55% Blue Care Network
46% Aetna

How Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Ann Arbor?

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.