Therapists in Bellevue, WA

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Photo of Denise Kuyper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Denise Kuyper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am highly passionate and invested in helping people through the challenges and overwhelming feelings we face in life. It makes my heart sing when someone's well being improves enough to making empowering changes in his or her life. Whatever the issue I will collaborate with individuals, couples or families in an attuned and in depth way to find new pathways toward well-being. I realize the value in helping people move beyond the unfinished business of their past. Whether recovering from an eating disorder, trauma or other repetitive pattern, I work with clients to resolve their problems and establish a solid coherent self.
I am highly passionate and invested in helping people through the challenges and overwhelming feelings we face in life. It makes my heart sing when someone's well being improves enough to making empowering changes in his or her life. Whatever the issue I will collaborate with individuals, couples or families in an attuned and in depth way to find new pathways toward well-being. I realize the value in helping people move beyond the unfinished business of their past. Whether recovering from an eating disorder, trauma or other repetitive pattern, I work with clients to resolve their problems and establish a solid coherent self.
(425) 324-3547 View (425) 324-3547
Photo of Jen Gates, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Jen Gates
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
The focus of my practice is individual (young children, adolescents and adults) and family therapy. I genuinely love working with children, adolescents and families who are struggling with the tasks required to get through a day to those who have "tried everything" and feel lost. Or, individuals and families who are facing a crisis or transition and do not know how to navigate their way, much less help their children. I work together with my clients to identify barriers and the path forward so they can function effectively in their day to day and feel successful in what they do and how they engage.
The focus of my practice is individual (young children, adolescents and adults) and family therapy. I genuinely love working with children, adolescents and families who are struggling with the tasks required to get through a day to those who have "tried everything" and feel lost. Or, individuals and families who are facing a crisis or transition and do not know how to navigate their way, much less help their children. I work together with my clients to identify barriers and the path forward so they can function effectively in their day to day and feel successful in what they do and how they engage.
(425) 786-9700 View (425) 786-9700
Photo of Marie L Sweeney, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Marie L Sweeney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I provide adult individual psychotherapy, specializing in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma recovery. I help people identify thinking or behavior patterns that may be preventing them from resolving emotional issues, managing relationships, or achieving life goals. Sometimes treatment involves behavioral methods such as practicing new skills, keeping behavior charts or journaling. Other clients may simply need information, resources or strategies to solve a specific problem. I am always there to provide support through empathy and encouragement. Please Note: Email is the best way to reach me.
I provide adult individual psychotherapy, specializing in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma recovery. I help people identify thinking or behavior patterns that may be preventing them from resolving emotional issues, managing relationships, or achieving life goals. Sometimes treatment involves behavioral methods such as practicing new skills, keeping behavior charts or journaling. Other clients may simply need information, resources or strategies to solve a specific problem. I am always there to provide support through empathy and encouragement. Please Note: Email is the best way to reach me.
(425) 230-3518 View (425) 230-3518
Photo of Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for PTSD in Seattle in Bellevue, WA
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for PTSD in Seattle
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Offering Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) to treat PTSD in Seattle and Bellevue, Washington. SGB is successful in approximately 85% of patients who see an almost immediate 50% reduction in PTSD symptoms on average (mean reduction in the PCL-5 (PTSD) score of 30 points). The stellate ganglion is a control center for the sympathetic nervous system and a conduit for PTSD triggers. SGB is a low risk injection which stops the sympathetic nervous system overdrive in PTSD patients, so triggers can be reduced or even eliminated. Patients are then better able to engage in the psychological work related to trauma events and PTSD.
Offering Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) to treat PTSD in Seattle and Bellevue, Washington. SGB is successful in approximately 85% of patients who see an almost immediate 50% reduction in PTSD symptoms on average (mean reduction in the PCL-5 (PTSD) score of 30 points). The stellate ganglion is a control center for the sympathetic nervous system and a conduit for PTSD triggers. SGB is a low risk injection which stops the sympathetic nervous system overdrive in PTSD patients, so triggers can be reduced or even eliminated. Patients are then better able to engage in the psychological work related to trauma events and PTSD.
(425) 230-4264 View (425) 230-4264
Photo of Shar Kunovsky, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Shar Kunovsky
Counselor, JD, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
**NEW CLIENTS - Please email me** No one deserves to live in pain. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools and skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in your way of creating your best life. As your therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client. I practice remote therapy with individual adults.
**NEW CLIENTS - Please email me** No one deserves to live in pain. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools and skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in your way of creating your best life. As your therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client. I practice remote therapy with individual adults.
(425) 264-8713 View (425) 264-8713
Photo of Hemlata Mistry, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Hemlata Mistry
Counselor, MEd, RN, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
(206) 466-3534 View (206) 466-3534
Photo of Susan M Burns, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Susan M Burns
Counselor, MA , LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, CEAP
Not Verified Not Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I offer an integrated array of counseling services based on 40 years of work in human services, treating psychological, educational, and work issues. A trauma informed client centered approach to personal development informs my work. I focus on a healthy system of relationship dynamics, short and long term counseling with expertise in mind/body approaches as well as traditional therapy. I am certified as an employee assistance professional and am very capable with work related issues and have developed expertise in career development. I am also specialized in executive coaching and telehealth.
I offer an integrated array of counseling services based on 40 years of work in human services, treating psychological, educational, and work issues. A trauma informed client centered approach to personal development informs my work. I focus on a healthy system of relationship dynamics, short and long term counseling with expertise in mind/body approaches as well as traditional therapy. I am certified as an employee assistance professional and am very capable with work related issues and have developed expertise in career development. I am also specialized in executive coaching and telehealth.
(425) 399-5047 View (425) 399-5047
John O'Malley
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDP, CCFC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
"Love says, 'I am everything.' Wisdom says, 'I am nothing." Between these two, my life flows.” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj Coming back from Vietnam, I found myself drawn to the human psyche and our ability to shape our existence. This exploration led to an intensive study of eastern and western psychological principles and practices. Along this journey, I found my calling - to recognize the innate goodness in all people and help them discover their inner power to transform their lives. I dedicated myself to helping people know they are more than the problems they want to overcome.
"Love says, 'I am everything.' Wisdom says, 'I am nothing." Between these two, my life flows.” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj Coming back from Vietnam, I found myself drawn to the human psyche and our ability to shape our existence. This exploration led to an intensive study of eastern and western psychological principles and practices. Along this journey, I found my calling - to recognize the innate goodness in all people and help them discover their inner power to transform their lives. I dedicated myself to helping people know they are more than the problems they want to overcome.
(206) 981-5922 View (206) 981-5922
Photo of Sonja Merz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Sonja Merz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
Our work will improve your relationships, communication, self esteem, and sense of overall well being. I believe in the inherent wisdom of clients in the healing process. I respect the lifestyles each person has chosen, and believe in the importance of confidentiality. I offer a safe place to explore concerns about relationships, parenting, marriage, transition, occupation, separation, depression, stress, and anxiety. I have treated individuals, couples, and families since 1995 specializing in internal families systems, human developments, and treating trauma.
Our work will improve your relationships, communication, self esteem, and sense of overall well being. I believe in the inherent wisdom of clients in the healing process. I respect the lifestyles each person has chosen, and believe in the importance of confidentiality. I offer a safe place to explore concerns about relationships, parenting, marriage, transition, occupation, separation, depression, stress, and anxiety. I have treated individuals, couples, and families since 1995 specializing in internal families systems, human developments, and treating trauma.
(206) 222-1571 View (206) 222-1571
Photo of Dr. Carmen D Lasby, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Carmen D Lasby
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
My therapy focuses on helping adults heal from childhood trauma, learning new ways to think and live in the world, and identify a better understanding of oneself and the relationships with those around them. I enjoy working with adults who have persevered in life and who have the courage to want something better for themselves. Many people in childhood are left to navigate the world alone. The work I do, as a therapist, allows me to walk beside you, in the here and now, and help you navigate through the new and old territory in your life. I am a trauma informed therapist with an attachment and relational focus.
My therapy focuses on helping adults heal from childhood trauma, learning new ways to think and live in the world, and identify a better understanding of oneself and the relationships with those around them. I enjoy working with adults who have persevered in life and who have the courage to want something better for themselves. Many people in childhood are left to navigate the world alone. The work I do, as a therapist, allows me to walk beside you, in the here and now, and help you navigate through the new and old territory in your life. I am a trauma informed therapist with an attachment and relational focus.
(253) 331-2597 View (253) 331-2597
Photo of Felicia Molano, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Felicia Molano
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Is sex a problem for you or your relationship? Are you tired of arguing about sex & avoiding intimacy? Has infidelity or sexual trauma hurt your ability to feel safe and connect? If you're tired of trying to fix things on your own, it's probably time to get support from a specialist. I help individuals & couples work though sexual struggles, heal from trauma, and rebuild intimacy. Together, we can create a plan to help you experience a deeper and fulfilling relationship. I build upon your strengths, while healing wounds that fuel suffering and keep us stuck. I'll walk alongside you as we work together on your goals set at your pace.
Is sex a problem for you or your relationship? Are you tired of arguing about sex & avoiding intimacy? Has infidelity or sexual trauma hurt your ability to feel safe and connect? If you're tired of trying to fix things on your own, it's probably time to get support from a specialist. I help individuals & couples work though sexual struggles, heal from trauma, and rebuild intimacy. Together, we can create a plan to help you experience a deeper and fulfilling relationship. I build upon your strengths, while healing wounds that fuel suffering and keep us stuck. I'll walk alongside you as we work together on your goals set at your pace.
(855) 941-5117 View (855) 941-5117
Photo of Merrill Shattuck, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Merrill Shattuck
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
**CURRENTLY FULL AND NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I believe everyone has the ability to be their best self, but sometimes life's challenges prevent us from living the life we envision. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, feeling stuck in a difficult situation, or simply want a little boost to get you back on track, I provide focused, respectful and compassionate attention to address your needs. Clients come to me for a fresh perspective and new coping skills. My approach is collaborative, client-centered and tailored to achieve the goals of each individual, couple, and family I meet.
**CURRENTLY FULL AND NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I believe everyone has the ability to be their best self, but sometimes life's challenges prevent us from living the life we envision. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, feeling stuck in a difficult situation, or simply want a little boost to get you back on track, I provide focused, respectful and compassionate attention to address your needs. Clients come to me for a fresh perspective and new coping skills. My approach is collaborative, client-centered and tailored to achieve the goals of each individual, couple, and family I meet.
(425) 341-4886 View (425) 341-4886
Photo of Brunette Dawson, Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brunette Dawson
Mental Health Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Dr. Brunette Dawson provides evidence-based psychotherapy and psychological/diagnostic assessment for, children, teens, adults, and families. In her clinical work, she utilizes an integrative approach, choosing techniques that are uniquely tailored to fit the individual needs of each client. Dr. Dawson is a clinically trained psychotherapist with a PhD and MA in Clinical Psychology. She has specialized training and experience in providing comprehensive psychological and forensic mental health evaluations and individual psychotherapy.
Dr. Brunette Dawson provides evidence-based psychotherapy and psychological/diagnostic assessment for, children, teens, adults, and families. In her clinical work, she utilizes an integrative approach, choosing techniques that are uniquely tailored to fit the individual needs of each client. Dr. Dawson is a clinically trained psychotherapist with a PhD and MA in Clinical Psychology. She has specialized training and experience in providing comprehensive psychological and forensic mental health evaluations and individual psychotherapy.
(425) 365-0253 View (425) 365-0253
Photo of Brad Mullen, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brad Mullen
Counselor, LMHCA , MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
As a black therapist, one of my key areas of focus is the intersectionality of mental health and race. People of color often face unique stressors and systemic barriers that can make mental health challenges much more prevalent. The stigma associated with seeking therapy within many communities of color can make it even more difficult to reach out for help. Consequently, I am dedicated to destigmatizing mental health conversations within these communities and ensuring culturally competent care for my clients
As a black therapist, one of my key areas of focus is the intersectionality of mental health and race. People of color often face unique stressors and systemic barriers that can make mental health challenges much more prevalent. The stigma associated with seeking therapy within many communities of color can make it even more difficult to reach out for help. Consequently, I am dedicated to destigmatizing mental health conversations within these communities and ensuring culturally competent care for my clients
(206) 202-8031 View (206) 202-8031
Photo of Samantha Gibb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Samantha Gibb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I believe that meeting people where they are in life, the inherent strength that every client possesses, and a strong therapeutic relationship are the most important aspects of therapy. I work with people seeking help with healing from trauma, who are experiencing dissociation, who are trans/gender non-conforming, who have queer identities, who are military or military families, and anyone else who wants to work through their anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties. I believe in body positivity/neutrality, sex positivity, and anti-racism/sexism. I'm offering online therapy in Washington State.
I believe that meeting people where they are in life, the inherent strength that every client possesses, and a strong therapeutic relationship are the most important aspects of therapy. I work with people seeking help with healing from trauma, who are experiencing dissociation, who are trans/gender non-conforming, who have queer identities, who are military or military families, and anyone else who wants to work through their anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties. I believe in body positivity/neutrality, sex positivity, and anti-racism/sexism. I'm offering online therapy in Washington State.
(360) 345-3596 View (360) 345-3596
Photo of Marcie Mitchell, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Marcie Mitchell
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State. I am passionate about providing a collaborative approach and empathic understanding of my client's needs.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State. I am passionate about providing a collaborative approach and empathic understanding of my client's needs.
(858) 346-5004 View (858) 346-5004
Photo of Dan Kim, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Dan Kim
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98007
I offer a confidential space to talk, feel your emotions, gain insight, and grow. I am here to listen to you while offering reflections, feedback, and insight from a therapeutic lens. I believe that exploration leads to change and once you get started, you will begin to feel different in many areas of your life.
I offer a confidential space to talk, feel your emotions, gain insight, and grow. I am here to listen to you while offering reflections, feedback, and insight from a therapeutic lens. I believe that exploration leads to change and once you get started, you will begin to feel different in many areas of your life.
(425) 533-9403 View (425) 533-9403
Photo of Drew Thomas, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Drew Thomas
Counselor, MACP, CMHS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Not accepting new clients
**Currently not accepting new clients** I believe that therapy can greatly encourage all of us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with children and teens, college age individuals, young adults, and families. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. In working with families, my goals are to identify patterns of behavior, recognize familial strengths, and suggest strategies that may allow interactions within the family to be more healthy and adaptive.
**Currently not accepting new clients** I believe that therapy can greatly encourage all of us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with children and teens, college age individuals, young adults, and families. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. In working with families, my goals are to identify patterns of behavior, recognize familial strengths, and suggest strategies that may allow interactions within the family to be more healthy and adaptive.
(425) 549-9837 View (425) 549-9837
Photo of Helen Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Helen Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
Many of the individuals and/or couples I work with have issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction issues, poor communication skills and an inability to regulate emotions effectively, trust issues, and those just looking to improve aspects of their lives. I believe people have the answers within themselves, they just need someone to help recognize their true inner strength and ability cope with life's ups and downs.
Many of the individuals and/or couples I work with have issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction issues, poor communication skills and an inability to regulate emotions effectively, trust issues, and those just looking to improve aspects of their lives. I believe people have the answers within themselves, they just need someone to help recognize their true inner strength and ability cope with life's ups and downs.
(425) 600-5344 View (425) 600-5344
Photo of Claudette Granahan, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Claudette Granahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who believes in the resilience of the human spirit. Living in society can seem chaotic and often feeling heard by others may seem impossible, yet we yearn for love and harmony. Too often, we wind up distancing ourselves because it may seem easier, but then the result is feelings of alienation and loneliness. We add to these feelings of loneliness by erecting barriers between ourselves and others which only perpetuate the problem. Therapy can offer a means of releasing energy so that barriers are removed permitting new possibilities for a more content existence.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who believes in the resilience of the human spirit. Living in society can seem chaotic and often feeling heard by others may seem impossible, yet we yearn for love and harmony. Too often, we wind up distancing ourselves because it may seem easier, but then the result is feelings of alienation and loneliness. We add to these feelings of loneliness by erecting barriers between ourselves and others which only perpetuate the problem. Therapy can offer a means of releasing energy so that barriers are removed permitting new possibilities for a more content existence.
(425) 954-6895 View (425) 954-6895

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera
55% Regence
52% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.