Photo of Brianne Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Brianne Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Life can be challenging at times, and taking the step to improve your quality of life is important. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and my approach to therapy starts with providing a warm, welcoming environment and building a strong foundation. I work hard to ensure a safe and comfortable space for my clients. My passion is helping people heal and grow through their experiences and challenges. I will provide an open space for you to explore your challenges, learn more about yourself, and grow through these difficult times.
Life can be challenging at times, and taking the step to improve your quality of life is important. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and my approach to therapy starts with providing a warm, welcoming environment and building a strong foundation. I work hard to ensure a safe and comfortable space for my clients. My passion is helping people heal and grow through their experiences and challenges. I will provide an open space for you to explore your challenges, learn more about yourself, and grow through these difficult times.
(661) 320-8777 View (661) 320-8777
Photo of Erica Garay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Erica Garay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Erica Garay. I didn't choose the therapist life; rather, it chose me. My journey toward becoming an LCSW is deeply rooted in my experiences growing up in an immigrant household. From a young age, I naturally assumed the helping role, inspired by the cultural nuances and challenges faced in my own family. Through the challenging terrain of my own experiences, the support I received from compassionate helping professionals during my formative years illuminated my potential and fueled my desire to pay it forward. I wish to share the light I found with those currently facing the darkness of their own mental health challenges.
Hi! I'm Erica Garay. I didn't choose the therapist life; rather, it chose me. My journey toward becoming an LCSW is deeply rooted in my experiences growing up in an immigrant household. From a young age, I naturally assumed the helping role, inspired by the cultural nuances and challenges faced in my own family. Through the challenging terrain of my own experiences, the support I received from compassionate helping professionals during my formative years illuminated my potential and fueled my desire to pay it forward. I wish to share the light I found with those currently facing the darkness of their own mental health challenges.
(661) 463-3983 View (661) 463-3983
Photo of Lorena Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93305, CA
Lorena Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Hi there, I'm Lorena! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Inland Empire, California, and working with new clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, parenting, and life events, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients begin to feel better.
Hi there, I'm Lorena! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Inland Empire, California, and working with new clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, parenting, and life events, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients begin to feel better.
(661) 493-8708 View (661) 493-8708
Photo of April Jannise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
April Jannise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Hi, my name is April Jannise, and I am an LCSW. I have been in practice since 1996 and I am experienced in treating children and adults. I generally use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Behavior Modification. I really enjoy building relationships with people, and I believe in having fun while addressing life's stressful issues. I typically work with people ages 13 and up. I have a strong background working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and/or trauma-related issues.
Hi, my name is April Jannise, and I am an LCSW. I have been in practice since 1996 and I am experienced in treating children and adults. I generally use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Behavior Modification. I really enjoy building relationships with people, and I believe in having fun while addressing life's stressful issues. I typically work with people ages 13 and up. I have a strong background working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and/or trauma-related issues.
(661) 762-4337 View (661) 762-4337
Photo of Robyn Coughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Robyn Coughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Robyn Coughlin, LCSW. I have been licensed to practice therapy since 2007. To improve mood and confidence and combat life stress, I approach individual therapy collaboratively using nonjudgmental supportive listening, insight-oriented questions, gentle perspective, and a solution-focused and mental strength approach. I provide personalized support, a safe space to talk out your thoughts and feelings, gain perspective, and have accountability to improve your mood, relationships, and confidence.
My name is Robyn Coughlin, LCSW. I have been licensed to practice therapy since 2007. To improve mood and confidence and combat life stress, I approach individual therapy collaboratively using nonjudgmental supportive listening, insight-oriented questions, gentle perspective, and a solution-focused and mental strength approach. I provide personalized support, a safe space to talk out your thoughts and feelings, gain perspective, and have accountability to improve your mood, relationships, and confidence.
(661) 669-8279 View (661) 669-8279
Photo of Autumn Byers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Autumn Byers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Autumn Byers is a compassionate and experienced therapist based in Fresno, CA. With a wealth of knowledge and a heartfelt commitment to helping others, she has been a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) since 2008. Autumn's genuine empathy and understanding make her an invaluable ally for those seeking support and guidance. Autumn specializes in working with diverse populations, and she finds great fulfillment in assisting family caregivers, individuals navigating life transitions, and those grappling with grief.
Autumn Byers is a compassionate and experienced therapist based in Fresno, CA. With a wealth of knowledge and a heartfelt commitment to helping others, she has been a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) since 2008. Autumn's genuine empathy and understanding make her an invaluable ally for those seeking support and guidance. Autumn specializes in working with diverse populations, and she finds great fulfillment in assisting family caregivers, individuals navigating life transitions, and those grappling with grief.
(661) 443-6483 View (661) 443-6483
Photo of Natalie Rhyne, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93305, CA
Natalie Rhyne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Natalie Rhyne, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 97859. I believe the therapeutic space should provide both containment and flexibility, and best serves its clients in a context of honoring the unique needs with which each individual presents. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - in individual, conjoint, and family settings. I support a range of conditions including mood disorders, trauma, and intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts.
My name is Natalie Rhyne, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 97859. I believe the therapeutic space should provide both containment and flexibility, and best serves its clients in a context of honoring the unique needs with which each individual presents. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - in individual, conjoint, and family settings. I support a range of conditions including mood disorders, trauma, and intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts.
(661) 320-8976 View (661) 320-8976
Photo of Maxwell Sleep-Frankel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
(805) 510-7694 View (805) 510-7694
Photo of Karmelle Ramillano, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93305, CA
Karmelle Ramillano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Karmelle Ramillano and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in mood, anxiety, and trauma disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients care for their mental well-being and achieve their mental health goals. I typically work with adults from as young as 18 years old to adults in their 60s who are hoping to process trauma. Other conditions I most often treat include depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and stress.
My name is Karmelle Ramillano and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in mood, anxiety, and trauma disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients care for their mental well-being and achieve their mental health goals. I typically work with adults from as young as 18 years old to adults in their 60s who are hoping to process trauma. Other conditions I most often treat include depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and stress.
(916) 378-1780 View (916) 378-1780
Photo of Christi Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Christi Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Hello! My name is Christi Bell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'm looking forward to working with you! I believe that the best therapy happens in partnership between the therapist and the client. My focus of clinical practice is working with teenagers and adults in the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma. I look forward to getting to know you better! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults up to age 50 who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, body dysmorphia, and PTSD. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma.
Hello! My name is Christi Bell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'm looking forward to working with you! I believe that the best therapy happens in partnership between the therapist and the client. My focus of clinical practice is working with teenagers and adults in the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma. I look forward to getting to know you better! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults up to age 50 who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, body dysmorphia, and PTSD. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma.
(650) 663-4273 View (650) 663-4273
Photo of Donnamarie Elcock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Donnamarie Elcock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305  (Online Only)
I have been on a life journey that will continue forever because we never stop creating a greater more powerful self. Why we would do that, it feels encapsulating to be struck in a BOX of epic proportions feeling there is no opening the door the best of you! The opening to knowledge can result in the gaining of creative strategies for coping skills, self-care, managing symptoms, workshops, groups, books, exercises, seminars, videos, podcasts, motivational interviewing, artwork, Mental Health is recognizing/acknowledging its existence in yourself, family, friends. and the coping mechanisms to assist with managing symptoms.
I have been on a life journey that will continue forever because we never stop creating a greater more powerful self. Why we would do that, it feels encapsulating to be struck in a BOX of epic proportions feeling there is no opening the door the best of you! The opening to knowledge can result in the gaining of creative strategies for coping skills, self-care, managing symptoms, workshops, groups, books, exercises, seminars, videos, podcasts, motivational interviewing, artwork, Mental Health is recognizing/acknowledging its existence in yourself, family, friends. and the coping mechanisms to assist with managing symptoms.
(619) 848-1321 View (619) 848-1321
Photo of David Delos Reyes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
David Delos Reyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about working with individuals to help overcome life's challenges especially with depression, anxiety and difficult life transitions. I look forward to working with you to reawaken resilience from within and for you to tap into your most authentic self. I am currently providing individual therapy for adults via telehealth. I most commonly treat depression and anxiety disorders. I have experience working with Veterans and also specialize in working with court mandated individuals as a certified Anger Management Specialist-II.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about working with individuals to help overcome life's challenges especially with depression, anxiety and difficult life transitions. I look forward to working with you to reawaken resilience from within and for you to tap into your most authentic self. I am currently providing individual therapy for adults via telehealth. I most commonly treat depression and anxiety disorders. I have experience working with Veterans and also specialize in working with court mandated individuals as a certified Anger Management Specialist-II.
(805) 856-6322 View (805) 856-6322
Photo of Ileana Gallegos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Ileana Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
I am Ileana Gallegos, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about facilitating the healing process by collaborating with you to assist you with your goals. I strongly believe in creating safe spaces for clients without judgment. I am so excited that you have decided to take this next step in your journey to allow me to assist you with promoting healing, helping you reach your desired goals, to become a healthier, stronger version of yourself. I have helped individuals with trauma, mental illness, relationship issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
I am Ileana Gallegos, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about facilitating the healing process by collaborating with you to assist you with your goals. I strongly believe in creating safe spaces for clients without judgment. I am so excited that you have decided to take this next step in your journey to allow me to assist you with promoting healing, helping you reach your desired goals, to become a healthier, stronger version of yourself. I have helped individuals with trauma, mental illness, relationship issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
(209) 309-3595 View (209) 309-3595
Photo of Rebecca Schack, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93305, CA
Rebecca Schack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Rebecca Schack LMFT. I am passionate about healing through a holistic framework. My clinical orientation draws from somatic psychotherapy (Core Energetics), trauma treatment (Comprehensive Resource Model), attachment theory, and depth psychology. . I utilize a blend of contemporary approaches to inform and aid in treatment ranging from body reading, attachment theory, neurobiology, energy tracking, breath work, gestalt techniques, DBT, mindfulness, inner child/parts work, as well as resourcing, regulating, and grounding techniques for the central nervous system.
My name is Rebecca Schack LMFT. I am passionate about healing through a holistic framework. My clinical orientation draws from somatic psychotherapy (Core Energetics), trauma treatment (Comprehensive Resource Model), attachment theory, and depth psychology. . I utilize a blend of contemporary approaches to inform and aid in treatment ranging from body reading, attachment theory, neurobiology, energy tracking, breath work, gestalt techniques, DBT, mindfulness, inner child/parts work, as well as resourcing, regulating, and grounding techniques for the central nervous system.
(650) 613-4417 View (650) 613-4417
Photo of Kevin Stansbury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Kevin Stansbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Hi, I’m Kevin. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in the mental health field. I’m passionate about helping my clients come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships with others, their perception of life and the world, and discover how to move forward on their own path into an ever-expanding sense of connectivity, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
Hi, I’m Kevin. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in the mental health field. I’m passionate about helping my clients come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships with others, their perception of life and the world, and discover how to move forward on their own path into an ever-expanding sense of connectivity, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
(323) 616-2406 View (323) 616-2406
Photo of Eduardo Rivas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93305, CA
Eduardo Rivas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Eduardo Rivas and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I am a therapist that is passionate about helping and supporting all of my clients to work toward life challenges and stressors and making growth in their lives. Taking the step to allow support into your life is significant and courageous and I hope that by working together I can help best meet your needs. I have several years of experience providing therapy to people of diverse backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles, and am passionate about holding a safe and welcoming space for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identified people.
My name is Eduardo Rivas and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I am a therapist that is passionate about helping and supporting all of my clients to work toward life challenges and stressors and making growth in their lives. Taking the step to allow support into your life is significant and courageous and I hope that by working together I can help best meet your needs. I have several years of experience providing therapy to people of diverse backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles, and am passionate about holding a safe and welcoming space for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identified people.
(747) 281-4723 View (747) 281-4723
Photo of Alisa Flakes, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93305, CA
Alisa Flakes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Hello, my name is Alisa Flakes and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+, couples, and families in a variety of areas including addiction, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, cultural stress, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief, and trauma & PTSD, amongst others. My approach is strength-based, solution focused and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Gottman Method, Gestalt, and more.
Hello, my name is Alisa Flakes and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+, couples, and families in a variety of areas including addiction, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, cultural stress, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief, and trauma & PTSD, amongst others. My approach is strength-based, solution focused and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Gottman Method, Gestalt, and more.
(408) 539-8691 View (408) 539-8691
Photo of George Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
George Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is George Young III. I am a board-certified LCSW. I am an Army Combat War Veteran. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have over 15 years of experience working with Children, Families, and Service Members. I like working with people and helping people reach their goals and true potential.
My name is George Young III. I am a board-certified LCSW. I am an Army Combat War Veteran. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have over 15 years of experience working with Children, Families, and Service Members. I like working with people and helping people reach their goals and true potential.
(562) 526-1479 View (562) 526-1479
Photo of Soneela Ditta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93305, CA
Soneela Ditta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been doing this for 20 years. It is important to build rapport and give honest feedback. You will likely find me asking questions or trying to understand something better so that I can better support you. I typically Worker with adults ages 18+. I typically do individual therapy. In my 20yrs of practice, I have worked in different areas of this field and am comfortable in any setting. I am most comfortable treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, cultural issues,
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been doing this for 20 years. It is important to build rapport and give honest feedback. You will likely find me asking questions or trying to understand something better so that I can better support you. I typically Worker with adults ages 18+. I typically do individual therapy. In my 20yrs of practice, I have worked in different areas of this field and am comfortable in any setting. I am most comfortable treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, cultural issues,
(760) 350-3619 View (760) 350-3619
Photo of Kara Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93305, CA
Kara Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
I believe taking the necessary time to provide attention to yourself takes courage. We have become too good at distracting ourselves with the every day demands of life and do not take time to nurture our own needs.
I believe taking the necessary time to provide attention to yourself takes courage. We have become too good at distracting ourselves with the every day demands of life and do not take time to nurture our own needs.
(323) 689-5723 View (323) 689-5723

See more therapy options for 93305

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 93305

30+

Average cost per session

$137

Therapists in 93305 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
92% Coping Skills
87% Depression
74% Self Esteem
68% Stress
61% Grief
58% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 93305 see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 93305?

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.