Therapists in Memphis, TN

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Photo of Amy Katherine Power, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Amy Katherine Power
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
Hi! I'm glad you're here! I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Mississippi State University and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Colorado Denver. I am dedicated to healing through trauma-informed care utilizing Internal Family Systems (IFS) interventions, attachment focused care, and a person-centered approach. I have vast experience with those struggling with childhood wounds, past abuse (verbal, physical, emotional, and sexual), interpersonal issues, and eating disorders.
Hi! I'm glad you're here! I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Mississippi State University and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Colorado Denver. I am dedicated to healing through trauma-informed care utilizing Internal Family Systems (IFS) interventions, attachment focused care, and a person-centered approach. I have vast experience with those struggling with childhood wounds, past abuse (verbal, physical, emotional, and sexual), interpersonal issues, and eating disorders.
(901) 621-3521 View (901) 621-3521
Photo of The Resiliency Center of Memphis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
The Resiliency Center of Memphis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38120  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are hanging on by a thread? Is it becoming increasingly difficult to cope with the curve balls that life is throwing at you? Do you need a safe place to figure out this journey called “life”? At The Resiliency Center of Memphis, we are here to provide you with a safe space to promote your voice and choice and walk beside you as you embark your journey of overcoming obstacles. If your car was broken, you would see a mechanic. If you wanted to travel, you would see an agent. You are making the right move by seeking out a professional to improve your mental health.
Do you feel like you are hanging on by a thread? Is it becoming increasingly difficult to cope with the curve balls that life is throwing at you? Do you need a safe place to figure out this journey called “life”? At The Resiliency Center of Memphis, we are here to provide you with a safe space to promote your voice and choice and walk beside you as you embark your journey of overcoming obstacles. If your car was broken, you would see a mechanic. If you wanted to travel, you would see an agent. You are making the right move by seeking out a professional to improve your mental health.
(901) 446-0628 View (901) 446-0628
Photo of Angela Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Angela Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104  (Online Only)
Angela Arnold is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience. She provides counseling services for children and families of all ages and from diverse backgrounds, as well as military families and immigrants. She is passionate about helping clients navigate life transitions, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, grief, loss, major medical issues, and end-of-life concerns. Angela completed her Master of Science in Social Work at the University of Tennessee, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Antioch University, and also attained Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) status in Oregon and California.
Angela Arnold is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience. She provides counseling services for children and families of all ages and from diverse backgrounds, as well as military families and immigrants. She is passionate about helping clients navigate life transitions, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, grief, loss, major medical issues, and end-of-life concerns. Angela completed her Master of Science in Social Work at the University of Tennessee, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Antioch University, and also attained Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) status in Oregon and California.
(901) 657-3051 View (901) 657-3051
William Mealer
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed psychologist with training and experience in treating a wide variety of psychological disorders. I work with adults with alcoholism, drug addiction, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, phobias and phase of life problems, i.e. marital problems and divorce, job loss, physical illness. While my approach to treatment is primarily cognitive-behavioral, I also rely on other treatment approaches and interventions. I believe that the psychologist and the individual must work together as a team. Thus, each treatment plan is created by working together according to the needs of the individual.
I am a licensed psychologist with training and experience in treating a wide variety of psychological disorders. I work with adults with alcoholism, drug addiction, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, phobias and phase of life problems, i.e. marital problems and divorce, job loss, physical illness. While my approach to treatment is primarily cognitive-behavioral, I also rely on other treatment approaches and interventions. I believe that the psychologist and the individual must work together as a team. Thus, each treatment plan is created by working together according to the needs of the individual.
(901) 290-0366 View (901) 290-0366
Photo of Ray A Turner, Psychologist in Memphis, TN
Ray A Turner
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
Not accepting new clients
I have been a mental health professional for almost 40 years in a variety of settings. My experience includes service in three community mental health centers in Tennessee and Arkansas, a State Hospital internship and four years as a Staff Psychologist with the Arkansas Department of Correction. I have seen clients from a wide-range of settings with a wide-range of challenging problems. My primary focus is providing assistance to those experiencing emotional disturbances which have become overwhelming to the extent of threatening, or actually damaging the quality of the person's life.
I have been a mental health professional for almost 40 years in a variety of settings. My experience includes service in three community mental health centers in Tennessee and Arkansas, a State Hospital internship and four years as a Staff Psychologist with the Arkansas Department of Correction. I have seen clients from a wide-range of settings with a wide-range of challenging problems. My primary focus is providing assistance to those experiencing emotional disturbances which have become overwhelming to the extent of threatening, or actually damaging the quality of the person's life.
(901) 730-5699 View (901) 730-5699
Photo of Kristi Nobbman Dunaway, Counselor in Memphis, TN
Kristi Nobbman Dunaway
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC (t)
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
Waitlist for new clients
Life transitions can be difficult and dysregulating, particularly when those transitions are a death/loss or the addition of a baby. Clients typically come in feeling overwhelmed or numb to what is going on in their life. Other clients feel stuck because of a past or recent trauma. My clients are open to exploring the mind-body connection as we collaboratively work together to find stability and joy in their everyday lives.
Life transitions can be difficult and dysregulating, particularly when those transitions are a death/loss or the addition of a baby. Clients typically come in feeling overwhelmed or numb to what is going on in their life. Other clients feel stuck because of a past or recent trauma. My clients are open to exploring the mind-body connection as we collaboratively work together to find stability and joy in their everyday lives.
(901) 329-3711 View (901) 329-3711
Photo of Jacquelyn Taylor-Mays, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Jacquelyn Taylor-Mays
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-SWCM
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38135  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am licensed in Tennessee and founder of Taylor-Mays Counseling & Support, Inc. with 20+ years of professional work experience. I am nonjudgmental and focused on helping an individual go through the process to accomplish goals. I help with coping skills, anger management, stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, motivation and confidence. Career issues and job stress as well as professional development are areas of expertise. Let me help you with your goals and therapeutic journey.
I am licensed in Tennessee and founder of Taylor-Mays Counseling & Support, Inc. with 20+ years of professional work experience. I am nonjudgmental and focused on helping an individual go through the process to accomplish goals. I help with coping skills, anger management, stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, motivation and confidence. Career issues and job stress as well as professional development are areas of expertise. Let me help you with your goals and therapeutic journey.
(901) 582-8327 View (901) 582-8327
Photo of Kacie Kelso Mellen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Kacie Kelso Mellen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38120
Acknowledging the need for help can sometimes be a difficult first step, but carrying all of life's problems alone can be brutal and isolating. I provide a safe place for individuals, families, parents and couples to navigate effectively through the many obstacles we face on life's journey. My goal is to provide a warm and accepting environment for individuals to explore feelings, behaviors and life experiences that may allow for personal reflection and growth.
Acknowledging the need for help can sometimes be a difficult first step, but carrying all of life's problems alone can be brutal and isolating. I provide a safe place for individuals, families, parents and couples to navigate effectively through the many obstacles we face on life's journey. My goal is to provide a warm and accepting environment for individuals to explore feelings, behaviors and life experiences that may allow for personal reflection and growth.
(901) 245-5491 View (901) 245-5491
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Atkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Dr. Kimberly Atkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38120  (Online Only)
With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and over 20 years of counseling experience, I can help you get through life's trials and tribulations. I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in stress, grief, depression, anxiety, suicide prevention, chronic management illness, crises management, as well as in coping skills in both adolescents and adults. My expertise is a combination of professional and personal skills that can help any person tackle unexpected life crisis. I have experience in couples counseling, family counseling, group counseling, and career counseling.
With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and over 20 years of counseling experience, I can help you get through life's trials and tribulations. I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in stress, grief, depression, anxiety, suicide prevention, chronic management illness, crises management, as well as in coping skills in both adolescents and adults. My expertise is a combination of professional and personal skills that can help any person tackle unexpected life crisis. I have experience in couples counseling, family counseling, group counseling, and career counseling.
(901) 203-5291 View (901) 203-5291
Photo of Feeling Empowered, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Feeling Empowered, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104  (Online Only)
We all embark on the journey of life at the same starting point. We travel down the road before us, trying to carve out a path that will lead us to the kind of life that will bring us joy. However, there are times when that path leads us off the course of happiness and fulfillment, and into the unexpected. I enjoy working with individuals with traits and tendencies of attachment that manifests by way of questioning self-worth, feeling unworthy of love, fear that healthy relationships cannot exist, obsession with loss and difficulty moving forward, taking on others feelings and beliefs as your own, guilt/shame.
We all embark on the journey of life at the same starting point. We travel down the road before us, trying to carve out a path that will lead us to the kind of life that will bring us joy. However, there are times when that path leads us off the course of happiness and fulfillment, and into the unexpected. I enjoy working with individuals with traits and tendencies of attachment that manifests by way of questioning self-worth, feeling unworthy of love, fear that healthy relationships cannot exist, obsession with loss and difficulty moving forward, taking on others feelings and beliefs as your own, guilt/shame.
(901) 295-6474 View (901) 295-6474
Photo of Kristen M Cofield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Kristen M Cofield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to empower my clients to lead full, integrated, self-led lives. Together we will focus not only on behavior change and symptom reduction, but also on compassionately addressing and resolving the underlying factors and beliefs that drive coping responses into extremity. Through an integrated approach rooted in the Internal Family Systems model, I help clients to heal their attachment wounds and take ownership of their identity formation. Clients leave my office with better coping skills, a deeper understanding and connection to Self, and a renewed sense of purpose and empowerment.
My goal is to empower my clients to lead full, integrated, self-led lives. Together we will focus not only on behavior change and symptom reduction, but also on compassionately addressing and resolving the underlying factors and beliefs that drive coping responses into extremity. Through an integrated approach rooted in the Internal Family Systems model, I help clients to heal their attachment wounds and take ownership of their identity formation. Clients leave my office with better coping skills, a deeper understanding and connection to Self, and a renewed sense of purpose and empowerment.
(901) 979-9854 View (901) 979-9854
Photo of Rachael Henderson- Amaris Counseling Llc in Memphis, TN
Rachael Henderson- Amaris Counseling Llc
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38134  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Congratulations! You are taking the first step in reaching your goals and taking back control of your life. I provide a safe environment for individuals and families to address their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without the fear of judgment or rejection. We all experience pain whether it be physical, mental, or emotional. This pain can often manifest itself in our relationships and influence our thoughts and behaviors. As your therapist, I will partner with you to provide support in reaching your personal goals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, pre-marital and marital counseling.
Congratulations! You are taking the first step in reaching your goals and taking back control of your life. I provide a safe environment for individuals and families to address their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without the fear of judgment or rejection. We all experience pain whether it be physical, mental, or emotional. This pain can often manifest itself in our relationships and influence our thoughts and behaviors. As your therapist, I will partner with you to provide support in reaching your personal goals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, pre-marital and marital counseling.
(773) 207-3254 View (773) 207-3254
Photo of M. Katherine King, Pre-Licensed Professional in Memphis, TN
M. Katherine King
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
Life has its share of challenges. These can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, lost, insecure, and in need of change. Reaching out for support is the first step to healing. I understand what has brought you to this page has not been easy, but I'm glad you're here. I am passionate about helping others live a life they want to live. I have experience supporting anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship conflict, trauma, work/academic stressors, self-esteem/identity, grief, life transitions, & existential concerns.
Life has its share of challenges. These can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, lost, insecure, and in need of change. Reaching out for support is the first step to healing. I understand what has brought you to this page has not been easy, but I'm glad you're here. I am passionate about helping others live a life they want to live. I have experience supporting anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship conflict, trauma, work/academic stressors, self-esteem/identity, grief, life transitions, & existential concerns.
(901) 403-8633 View (901) 403-8633
Photo of Genevieve Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Genevieve Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
Do you need help in areas of your life? Are you unsure of what your next steps are? Did trauma affect you so bad you don't know where to turn? Did LIFE happen and make you rethink everything? I am here to help...
Do you need help in areas of your life? Are you unsure of what your next steps are? Did trauma affect you so bad you don't know where to turn? Did LIFE happen and make you rethink everything? I am here to help...
(901) 245-5845 View (901) 245-5845
Photo of Lauren Byrd Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Lauren Byrd Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38122  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel disconnected from your life? Are you tired of knowing what you “should” be doing to reach your potential, but you just can’t seem to follow through? Sometimes we get stuck and find ourselves having a hard time breaking free of set-backs, disappointments, or traumatic events. This can lead to a spiral that starts to affect our work, our relationships, and how we feel about ourselves. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, or just stretched in too many directions at once, it's time to do something--it's time to reclaim your life. Therapy is a safe place we can work together to do just that.
Do you feel disconnected from your life? Are you tired of knowing what you “should” be doing to reach your potential, but you just can’t seem to follow through? Sometimes we get stuck and find ourselves having a hard time breaking free of set-backs, disappointments, or traumatic events. This can lead to a spiral that starts to affect our work, our relationships, and how we feel about ourselves. If you are feeling anxious, depressed, or just stretched in too many directions at once, it's time to do something--it's time to reclaim your life. Therapy is a safe place we can work together to do just that.
View
Photo of Mahdee Rasul, Pre-Licensed Professional in Memphis, TN
Mahdee Rasul
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
In tandum with my role at Navigating Courage Counseling & Consultation, my best clients would be individuals age 16+ who are seeking therapy to process issues related to addictions, life transitions, identity conflicts, depression, anxiety, and/or ADHD.
In tandum with my role at Navigating Courage Counseling & Consultation, my best clients would be individuals age 16+ who are seeking therapy to process issues related to addictions, life transitions, identity conflicts, depression, anxiety, and/or ADHD.
(901) 665-2170 View (901) 665-2170
Photo of Ferren Family Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Ferren Family Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38104
Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness, and other feelings that are difficult from time to time. When emotional or behavioral problems are disrupting your life, it may be time to reach out for help. At FFC, we offer Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Telehealth, Consultation, and Community Education as means to help our community "Learn. Heal. Thrive."
Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness, and other feelings that are difficult from time to time. When emotional or behavioral problems are disrupting your life, it may be time to reach out for help. At FFC, we offer Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Telehealth, Consultation, and Community Education as means to help our community "Learn. Heal. Thrive."
(901) 410-9194 View (901) 410-9194
Photo of Becky Short Davis in Memphis, TN
Becky Short Davis
MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
Becky approaches clients as uniquely beautiful and gifted and works to assist clients in overcoming barriers that prevent them from embracing their innate strengths. Becky affirms all gender identities, religions, disabilities, ethnicities, and cultures and encourages clients to find healing within each aspect of their person. Life can be exhilarating and shattering, pleasant and painful, beautiful and horrific. All emotions tell us something about ourselves and our circumstances. All emotions are good and should be handled with care, because they are the forces that lead us to ourselves.
Becky approaches clients as uniquely beautiful and gifted and works to assist clients in overcoming barriers that prevent them from embracing their innate strengths. Becky affirms all gender identities, religions, disabilities, ethnicities, and cultures and encourages clients to find healing within each aspect of their person. Life can be exhilarating and shattering, pleasant and painful, beautiful and horrific. All emotions tell us something about ourselves and our circumstances. All emotions are good and should be handled with care, because they are the forces that lead us to ourselves.
(901) 621-8122 View (901) 621-8122
Photo of ASAP Counseling & Svcs, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
ASAP Counseling & Svcs, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CGP, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104
You thought you’d be past this by now. Everyone says, “Time heals all wounds,” but it still isn’t any easier. If anything, things are becoming more difficult. The world never stopped moving because of your loss, but at least people gave you time and space to grieve. Now, that grace period has elapsed, and friends and family are all wondering when you’ll “get on with your life.” While the comments don't help, you wish you had an answer for them but you simply don’t know. You go through the motions of life, doing what you need to, but you’re checked out. Hiding from the world, avoiding any reminders of your loss. You feel trapped.
You thought you’d be past this by now. Everyone says, “Time heals all wounds,” but it still isn’t any easier. If anything, things are becoming more difficult. The world never stopped moving because of your loss, but at least people gave you time and space to grieve. Now, that grace period has elapsed, and friends and family are all wondering when you’ll “get on with your life.” While the comments don't help, you wish you had an answer for them but you simply don’t know. You go through the motions of life, doing what you need to, but you’re checked out. Hiding from the world, avoiding any reminders of your loss. You feel trapped.
(901) 403-8180 View (901) 403-8180
Photo of Carmen Lynn Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Carmen Lynn Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38111
Not accepting new clients
My experience consists of working with children while at CPS; working with adults while employed at California State Prison and working in the hospital setting servicing families and those in need of mental health therapy/crisis intervention. My approach to mental health therapy is patient centered which allows for private sessions to be guided and created around the patients’ needs and desired outcomes.
My experience consists of working with children while at CPS; working with adults while employed at California State Prison and working in the hospital setting servicing families and those in need of mental health therapy/crisis intervention. My approach to mental health therapy is patient centered which allows for private sessions to be guided and created around the patients’ needs and desired outcomes.
(901) 446-4086 View (901) 446-4086

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Memphis, TN

500+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Memphis, TN who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
70% Coping Skills
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Cigna and Evernorth
69% Aetna
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Memphis, TN see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Memphis?

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.