Therapists in Belleville, IL

Photo of Terry Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belleville, IL
Terry Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
I understand that change can be overwhelming and challenging at times, and it can be hard to know where to begin. If you are ready to make a change and learn new skills, I will be right here by your side, cheering you on. You can count on me to provide unwavering support and guidance throughout your journey. Let's work together to understand your needs and create a meaningful plan that can make a real difference in your life.
I understand that change can be overwhelming and challenging at times, and it can be hard to know where to begin. If you are ready to make a change and learn new skills, I will be right here by your side, cheering you on. You can count on me to provide unwavering support and guidance throughout your journey. Let's work together to understand your needs and create a meaningful plan that can make a real difference in your life.
(618) 496-6925 View (618) 496-6925
Photo of Mistie Tennant, Counselor in Belleville, IL
Mistie Tennant
Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
Sit back, take your shoes off and get as comfortable as you would like, that is the mantra I have for anyone who comes into my office. I have created a calming, welcoming space for people to feel they can share what they need to share, cry, laugh or yell. I love the aha moments people have or when they finally start to realize for themselves that they are going to be okay, might not be great but even okay is better than nothing. I love working with perinatal and postpartum clients especially those first time new mamas who are getting use to their new role. I would love to help you through your journey, good, bad or other.
Sit back, take your shoes off and get as comfortable as you would like, that is the mantra I have for anyone who comes into my office. I have created a calming, welcoming space for people to feel they can share what they need to share, cry, laugh or yell. I love the aha moments people have or when they finally start to realize for themselves that they are going to be okay, might not be great but even okay is better than nothing. I love working with perinatal and postpartum clients especially those first time new mamas who are getting use to their new role. I would love to help you through your journey, good, bad or other.
(618) 995-8340 View (618) 995-8340
Photo of Sara Macke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belleville, IL
Sara Macke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62221
Whether it's your first experience in therapy, or your first experience after a bad experience, I am here to help you see what therapy can truly be. Life creates challenges and barriers to help us understand who we truly are and who we want to become. We all want to find what it means to be our best selves. Sometimes this causes us to feel judgmental of ourselves, second guess boundaries we are putting down to better our lives, or we notice an overwhelming amount of negative self-talk towards ourselves.
Whether it's your first experience in therapy, or your first experience after a bad experience, I am here to help you see what therapy can truly be. Life creates challenges and barriers to help us understand who we truly are and who we want to become. We all want to find what it means to be our best selves. Sometimes this causes us to feel judgmental of ourselves, second guess boundaries we are putting down to better our lives, or we notice an overwhelming amount of negative self-talk towards ourselves.
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Photo of Rebecca L Salah, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belleville, IL
Rebecca L Salah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62220
The process of self-discovery and healthy growth can be a confusing and scary one. Add in anxiety, depression, pressure from others, substance use or insecurity and now help is needed! I have experience working with adults, teenagers, adolescents and children in residential, school and office settings. My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, and school/work-life balance.
The process of self-discovery and healthy growth can be a confusing and scary one. Add in anxiety, depression, pressure from others, substance use or insecurity and now help is needed! I have experience working with adults, teenagers, adolescents and children in residential, school and office settings. My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, and school/work-life balance.
(708) 295-3299 View (708) 295-3299
Photo of Mariana Queiroz, Counselor in Belleville, IL
Mariana Queiroz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
Life throws us many obstacles and challenges, no matter our age. Challenges such as starting a new job, moving to a new city, starting or ending a relationship, etc. Along with these new journeys, you may start to experience excessive worry, or continuously doubt your abilities, or feel isolated and alone and therefore not wanting to burden others. These patterns begin to influence your relationships with others and yourself, affecting your mood, motivation level, and overall happiness. If you’re reading this, you are approaching the first step into your therapeutic journey and I am here to help you with each step moving forward.
Life throws us many obstacles and challenges, no matter our age. Challenges such as starting a new job, moving to a new city, starting or ending a relationship, etc. Along with these new journeys, you may start to experience excessive worry, or continuously doubt your abilities, or feel isolated and alone and therefore not wanting to burden others. These patterns begin to influence your relationships with others and yourself, affecting your mood, motivation level, and overall happiness. If you’re reading this, you are approaching the first step into your therapeutic journey and I am here to help you with each step moving forward.
(618) 376-7540 View (618) 376-7540
Photo of Caroline Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belleville, IL
Caroline Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
Hello! If you're reading this, it shows that you recognize the need for positive change, and I genuinely commend you for taking this crucial step. It takes work to acknowledge the impact our struggles can have on ourselves and those we care about. Yet, your willingness to initiate change is already an excellent start. Whether you're seeking a therapist to discuss mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse or striving for a brighter future and seeking guidance on how to achieve it, you're in the right place.
Hello! If you're reading this, it shows that you recognize the need for positive change, and I genuinely commend you for taking this crucial step. It takes work to acknowledge the impact our struggles can have on ourselves and those we care about. Yet, your willingness to initiate change is already an excellent start. Whether you're seeking a therapist to discuss mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse or striving for a brighter future and seeking guidance on how to achieve it, you're in the right place.
(618) 403-1258 View (618) 403-1258
Photo of Elizabeth Marx, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belleville, IL
Elizabeth Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62220
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
(618) 486-1388 View (618) 486-1388
Photo of Susan Norsigian, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Belleville, IL
Susan Norsigian
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
I focus on my clients' individual situations and work with them to find answers they need to live healthy and productive lives. My goal is to empower clients to use their individual strengths. I use an eclectic approach, which can include cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, object relations and DBT techniques. I am an art therapist, and incorporate creative expression when appropriate. I may use one or all of these approaches with you. I believe treatment is a journey that we take together, the ultimate end result being you walk your own path with tools you need to be healthy and happy.
I focus on my clients' individual situations and work with them to find answers they need to live healthy and productive lives. My goal is to empower clients to use their individual strengths. I use an eclectic approach, which can include cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, object relations and DBT techniques. I am an art therapist, and incorporate creative expression when appropriate. I may use one or all of these approaches with you. I believe treatment is a journey that we take together, the ultimate end result being you walk your own path with tools you need to be healthy and happy.
(618) 627-7403 View (618) 627-7403
Photo of Mikaela Manzella, Pre-Licensed Professional in Belleville, IL
Mikaela Manzella
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
I am so happy that you are here! I specialize in working with adolescents, teens, and young adults. Together we can discuss topics such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, self-worth, academic pressure, college and career planning, and relationship issues. Together we will work together to explore who you are at the core and who you want to become. I want to be able to explore a wide array of topics to discover more about you and assist in the goals you set for yourself.
I am so happy that you are here! I specialize in working with adolescents, teens, and young adults. Together we can discuss topics such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, self-worth, academic pressure, college and career planning, and relationship issues. Together we will work together to explore who you are at the core and who you want to become. I want to be able to explore a wide array of topics to discover more about you and assist in the goals you set for yourself.
(618) 323-8349 View (618) 323-8349
Photo of Progressive Life Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belleville, IL
Progressive Life Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am the Founder and Clinical Director of Progressive Life Counseling, a group counseling practice here in the state of Illinois. If you or your loved one is in need of counseling and you’re having a difficult time finding the right therapist in your area, you are not alone! Our secure online platform offers a diverse group of Licensed Therapists who are motivated to help you restore hope, heal, and pursue the quality of life that you deserve. Save time, energy, and the financial burden of driving to your next appointment. We currently have immediate openings and a highly trained Therapist ready to meet with you now!
Greetings, I am the Founder and Clinical Director of Progressive Life Counseling, a group counseling practice here in the state of Illinois. If you or your loved one is in need of counseling and you’re having a difficult time finding the right therapist in your area, you are not alone! Our secure online platform offers a diverse group of Licensed Therapists who are motivated to help you restore hope, heal, and pursue the quality of life that you deserve. Save time, energy, and the financial burden of driving to your next appointment. We currently have immediate openings and a highly trained Therapist ready to meet with you now!
(618) 602-2312 View (618) 602-2312
Photo of Merrisa Dawn Santos, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belleville, IL
Merrisa Dawn Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTMHP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
I sincerely believe that each of us is born into this world deserving of happiness, safety, and love. For some of us, the road to emotional wellness can be impacted by forces and experiences beyond our control. At times, we can lose sight of the beauty life has to offer us due to potential trauma, family history, or hardships we’ve experienced. My goal is to help you uncover, rediscover, and reclaim the joy and purpose in your life through compassionate, welcoming, and conversational counseling services.
I sincerely believe that each of us is born into this world deserving of happiness, safety, and love. For some of us, the road to emotional wellness can be impacted by forces and experiences beyond our control. At times, we can lose sight of the beauty life has to offer us due to potential trauma, family history, or hardships we’ve experienced. My goal is to help you uncover, rediscover, and reclaim the joy and purpose in your life through compassionate, welcoming, and conversational counseling services.
(618) 836-4075 View (618) 836-4075
Photo of Mark S Carich, Counselor in Belleville, IL
Mark S Carich
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62226
I have had a variety of experiences working with people who have had different types of problems. I have worked with individuals having problems ranging from anxiety, depression, anger management, chronic habitual problems, compulsivity, bipolar, sexual addiction, sexual offending/deviant behaviors, and psychotic issues. The value of therapy is that clients can come in with issues and with work receive some results in the form of change. It is my job to help facilitate that process. I believe in helping people work out their problems and provide them with the skill sets to help them accomplish their goals.
I have had a variety of experiences working with people who have had different types of problems. I have worked with individuals having problems ranging from anxiety, depression, anger management, chronic habitual problems, compulsivity, bipolar, sexual addiction, sexual offending/deviant behaviors, and psychotic issues. The value of therapy is that clients can come in with issues and with work receive some results in the form of change. It is my job to help facilitate that process. I believe in helping people work out their problems and provide them with the skill sets to help them accomplish their goals.
(618) 496-6961 View (618) 496-6961
Photo of Ashley Meints, Counselor in Belleville, IL
Ashley Meints
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62226
"Think about what you can do right now, not what you had wish you would have done before." I am passionate about helping people overcome whatever obstacle that keeps them from living their life to the fullest. Throughout life we all experience difficulties that lead to us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and defeated. Despite our best efforts sometimes overcoming those life circumstances by ourselves can be unsuccessful. My desire is to come alongside you and help you overcome those difficult life circumstances in a safe and supporting environment to get you back to living your best life.
"Think about what you can do right now, not what you had wish you would have done before." I am passionate about helping people overcome whatever obstacle that keeps them from living their life to the fullest. Throughout life we all experience difficulties that lead to us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and defeated. Despite our best efforts sometimes overcoming those life circumstances by ourselves can be unsuccessful. My desire is to come alongside you and help you overcome those difficult life circumstances in a safe and supporting environment to get you back to living your best life.
(708) 325-4038 View (708) 325-4038
Photo of Yvonne Licavoli, Counselor in Belleville, IL
Yvonne Licavoli
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62226
Life can sometimes take away bits and pieces of us, and make us forget who we are. We can sometimes feel lost and alone, and lose our drive to be our best selves. Have you found yourself in that position? Feeling as if you don’t know who you are, where you belong, and have no one to listen? I create a safe, confidential, non-judgmental space to allow you to find yourself again, whether it be in your family, your work, or your marriage.
Life can sometimes take away bits and pieces of us, and make us forget who we are. We can sometimes feel lost and alone, and lose our drive to be our best selves. Have you found yourself in that position? Feeling as if you don’t know who you are, where you belong, and have no one to listen? I create a safe, confidential, non-judgmental space to allow you to find yourself again, whether it be in your family, your work, or your marriage.
(618) 226-8928 View (618) 226-8928
Photo of Jessica Beaston, Counselor in Belleville, IL
Jessica Beaston
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
Do you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? And no matter how hard you try to meet everyone’s expectations it always seems like it’s never enough? On top of all of this, you're not sleeping, eating, or taking care of yourself the way you should? If this sounds like you, then you might need a safe space to unwind, explore solutions, and restructure your life for the better. If you are finally ready to put your needs first and live a life that pleases you as much as it pleases others, I am willing to do everything in my power to help you achieve this and so much more!
Do you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? And no matter how hard you try to meet everyone’s expectations it always seems like it’s never enough? On top of all of this, you're not sleeping, eating, or taking care of yourself the way you should? If this sounds like you, then you might need a safe space to unwind, explore solutions, and restructure your life for the better. If you are finally ready to put your needs first and live a life that pleases you as much as it pleases others, I am willing to do everything in my power to help you achieve this and so much more!
(217) 269-0202 View (217) 269-0202
Photo of Ky A. Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belleville, IL
Ky A. Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62220  (Online Only)
Maybe you have been to a therapist or two and haven't been able to dig as deep as you would like to go in order to move into your most authentic sense of being. Perhaps you struggle with a sense of purpose, self-esteem, have a sense of emptiness or loneliness, or are feeling confused about next steps. You will likely find me to be a good fit if you are looking to do much deeper work to finally resolve pain from the past as opposed to merely coping with it. Our work will be guided by a vision of long-term mental health, growing into authenticity, and creating a sense of emotional regulation that you may not have experienced yet.
Maybe you have been to a therapist or two and haven't been able to dig as deep as you would like to go in order to move into your most authentic sense of being. Perhaps you struggle with a sense of purpose, self-esteem, have a sense of emptiness or loneliness, or are feeling confused about next steps. You will likely find me to be a good fit if you are looking to do much deeper work to finally resolve pain from the past as opposed to merely coping with it. Our work will be guided by a vision of long-term mental health, growing into authenticity, and creating a sense of emotional regulation that you may not have experienced yet.
(618) 269-5660 View (618) 269-5660
Photo of CS Therapy Services, Counselor in Belleville, IL
CS Therapy Services
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223
All of us encounter struggles as we meet the daily challenges in our lives. From time to time our journey seems to change direction, go backwards, or even stop. Often, we don't know what to do or where to start. All we really need is someone to help us understand where we are, and where we want to go. Talking to a therapist can help you rediscover your journey, overcome personal issues, and work towards emotional health and well-being. Allow me to assist you on your journey, as you become the person you want to be.
All of us encounter struggles as we meet the daily challenges in our lives. From time to time our journey seems to change direction, go backwards, or even stop. Often, we don't know what to do or where to start. All we really need is someone to help us understand where we are, and where we want to go. Talking to a therapist can help you rediscover your journey, overcome personal issues, and work towards emotional health and well-being. Allow me to assist you on your journey, as you become the person you want to be.
(618) 952-4053 View (618) 952-4053
Photo of Laura Butts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belleville, IL
Laura Butts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62220
Hi there! I'm a therapist with a certified specialty in perinatal mental health. I utilize holistic and innovative methods to treat life's common (and some not so common) speed-bumps - the ones that usually leave us feeling like we're trapped in frustrating cycles or tapped out energetically. My life's work and passion is all about holding space for clients who are ready to own their stories and transform their lives. I aim to work with individuals who are ready to become empowered to make a return to their most authentic self! If you are looking for a counselor who is creative, non-judgmental & laid back, we may be a great fit.
Hi there! I'm a therapist with a certified specialty in perinatal mental health. I utilize holistic and innovative methods to treat life's common (and some not so common) speed-bumps - the ones that usually leave us feeling like we're trapped in frustrating cycles or tapped out energetically. My life's work and passion is all about holding space for clients who are ready to own their stories and transform their lives. I aim to work with individuals who are ready to become empowered to make a return to their most authentic self! If you are looking for a counselor who is creative, non-judgmental & laid back, we may be a great fit.
(618) 230-4669 View (618) 230-4669
Photo of Kelsey Quade, Counselor in Belleville, IL
Kelsey Quade
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62221
Not accepting new clients
I believe one role of a therapist is to help clients find ways to become the version of themselves they truly desire to be. Every person already possesses a unique set of skills and base of knowledge stemming from their life experiences and personality. People are often more resilient and capable of change than they realize, and it is my goal to help clients identify personal strengths, learn new skills, and create meaning, peace, healing, and change. We all need help sometimes, and there is no shame in asking for guidance or seeking a safe space to process the many unexpected things life can bring.
I believe one role of a therapist is to help clients find ways to become the version of themselves they truly desire to be. Every person already possesses a unique set of skills and base of knowledge stemming from their life experiences and personality. People are often more resilient and capable of change than they realize, and it is my goal to help clients identify personal strengths, learn new skills, and create meaning, peace, healing, and change. We all need help sometimes, and there is no shame in asking for guidance or seeking a safe space to process the many unexpected things life can bring.
(618) 887-6113 View (618) 887-6113
Photo of Simply Graceful Consulting, Licensed Social Worker in Belleville, IL
Simply Graceful Consulting
Licensed Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223
I'm here to support, encourage, walk with, and extend love to all my beautiful souls who have battled with indecisiveness about making decisions, co-dependency in relationships (Where we depend on others to meet our emotional needs, feel secure, and worthy), negative self-talk, lack boundaries, get stuck in cycles of over-thinking, commit to being loyal at the cost to self, and have a constant relationship with insecurity and low self-esteem. I want to help you learn to trust yourself, love yourself/accept yourself, honor your inner voice, respect and exert your voice, value your time, commit to the importance of meeting your needs.
I'm here to support, encourage, walk with, and extend love to all my beautiful souls who have battled with indecisiveness about making decisions, co-dependency in relationships (Where we depend on others to meet our emotional needs, feel secure, and worthy), negative self-talk, lack boundaries, get stuck in cycles of over-thinking, commit to being loyal at the cost to self, and have a constant relationship with insecurity and low self-esteem. I want to help you learn to trust yourself, love yourself/accept yourself, honor your inner voice, respect and exert your voice, value your time, commit to the importance of meeting your needs.
(618) 227-7345 View (618) 227-7345

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Belleville, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Belleville, IL who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
78% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
72% Stress
71% Relationship Issues
68% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Belleville, IL see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Belleville?

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.