Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

Photo of Kathleen (Katie) Donoghue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Kathleen (Katie) Donoghue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Overwhelmed with your thoughts, feelings, and emotions? Difficulty being in the present moment? Feeling generally unfulfilled or less satisfied in your life, work, or relationship(s) with yourself and others? !%€
Accepting new clients. Overwhelmed with your thoughts, feelings, and emotions? Difficulty being in the present moment? Feeling generally unfulfilled or less satisfied in your life, work, or relationship(s) with yourself and others? !%€
(734) 206-7107 View (734) 206-7107
Photo of Cindy Cowan Crawford, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Cindy Cowan Crawford
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I believe it is important to meet people where they are and that everyone has the potential to grow. Sometimes it just takes a little extra support in order for people to get to a place where they can enjoy life more completely and feel good about themselves. When working with my clients I use a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches. I offer comprehensive counseling for adults and adolescents and have worked extensively with anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, self-confidence issues, loss/grief, and relationship difficulties.
I believe it is important to meet people where they are and that everyone has the potential to grow. Sometimes it just takes a little extra support in order for people to get to a place where they can enjoy life more completely and feel good about themselves. When working with my clients I use a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches. I offer comprehensive counseling for adults and adolescents and have worked extensively with anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, self-confidence issues, loss/grief, and relationship difficulties.
(734) 956-0947 View (734) 956-0947
Photo of Alyssa Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Alyssa Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I offer mental health services for children (5+), adolescents, and adult women. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based.
I offer mental health services for children (5+), adolescents, and adult women. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based.
(734) 807-4332 View (734) 807-4332
Photo of Kristie Carpenter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Kristie Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Accepting New Clients! A large part of therapy includes the relationship and rapport between a client and their therapist. I understand the importance of having an affirming therapist and I strive to be that therapist. I am passionate about working with a variety of diverse populations, with the majority including LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adolescents and young adults. I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, and interpersonal relationship struggles.
Accepting New Clients! A large part of therapy includes the relationship and rapport between a client and their therapist. I understand the importance of having an affirming therapist and I strive to be that therapist. I am passionate about working with a variety of diverse populations, with the majority including LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adolescents and young adults. I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, and interpersonal relationship struggles.
(734) 985-2929 View (734) 985-2929
Photo of Jennifer Tang & Everwell Health and Counseling, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Jennifer Tang & Everwell Health and Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
OPEN for New Clients! - Life can present challenges that can result in feelings of stress, helplessness, loneliness, or fear. These struggles can impact our work/school, relationships, and how we see ourselves. At Everwell, our aim as a therapist is to help you gain a deeper understanding of your challenges as well as your strengths in order to effectively reach your goals and gain greater acceptance, peace, and fulfilment in your life. We will work collaboratively with you to increase your capacity for problem-solving and coping skills. We also strive to empower you to recognize and value your strengths, resources, and potential.
OPEN for New Clients! - Life can present challenges that can result in feelings of stress, helplessness, loneliness, or fear. These struggles can impact our work/school, relationships, and how we see ourselves. At Everwell, our aim as a therapist is to help you gain a deeper understanding of your challenges as well as your strengths in order to effectively reach your goals and gain greater acceptance, peace, and fulfilment in your life. We will work collaboratively with you to increase your capacity for problem-solving and coping skills. We also strive to empower you to recognize and value your strengths, resources, and potential.
(734) 659-4076 View (734) 659-4076
Photo of Anne Carlson, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Anne Carlson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
For over 20 years, my focus has been on providing effective, individualized, and research-informed treatment for children, adolescents and adults. I have worked across the developmental lifespan from birth to seventy, and am Endorsed by the Michigan Association of Infant Mental Health (Level IV). We’ll work together to help develop greater self-awareness and self-regulation skills to build up more resources – both within you and surrounding you – to face life challenges. Common problems that I address are: Adversity (Adjusting to Significant Life Stressors, including trauma), ADHD, Executive Function Deficits, Anxiety, Depression
For over 20 years, my focus has been on providing effective, individualized, and research-informed treatment for children, adolescents and adults. I have worked across the developmental lifespan from birth to seventy, and am Endorsed by the Michigan Association of Infant Mental Health (Level IV). We’ll work together to help develop greater self-awareness and self-regulation skills to build up more resources – both within you and surrounding you – to face life challenges. Common problems that I address are: Adversity (Adjusting to Significant Life Stressors, including trauma), ADHD, Executive Function Deficits, Anxiety, Depression
(734) 436-3874 View (734) 436-3874
Photo of Corey Woodhouse Counseling And Clinical Supervision, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ann Arbor, MI
Corey Woodhouse Counseling And Clinical Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLP, QIDP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping children and adults to recognize, express, and manage their feelings and develop resilience, gain self-acceptance, and learn skills for self-regulation and self-expression so they can feel a full spectrum of their emotions without fear of being overwhelmed by them. I have extensive experience working with children and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, and grief using trauma informed and strengths based approaches. In the clinical supervision services I provide, my goal is to empower you to become a skilled, self-aware, and ethically grounded counselor.
I am passionate about helping children and adults to recognize, express, and manage their feelings and develop resilience, gain self-acceptance, and learn skills for self-regulation and self-expression so they can feel a full spectrum of their emotions without fear of being overwhelmed by them. I have extensive experience working with children and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, and grief using trauma informed and strengths based approaches. In the clinical supervision services I provide, my goal is to empower you to become a skilled, self-aware, and ethically grounded counselor.
(734) 508-8814 View (734) 508-8814
David Whitesman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Hi my name is David Whitesman and I have been a clinical social worker for 30 years. I received my Masters of Social Work at the University of Michigan. My training was at the University of Michigan's outpatient mental health clinic working with adults and couples. I was a special education school social worker for 28 years. Additionally I have been a psychiatric social worker for more than 25 years, conducting psychiatric evaluations for children and adults. For the last 12 years I have been part of a comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy program providing individual and group therapy and skills coaching.
Hi my name is David Whitesman and I have been a clinical social worker for 30 years. I received my Masters of Social Work at the University of Michigan. My training was at the University of Michigan's outpatient mental health clinic working with adults and couples. I was a special education school social worker for 28 years. Additionally I have been a psychiatric social worker for more than 25 years, conducting psychiatric evaluations for children and adults. For the last 12 years I have been part of a comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy program providing individual and group therapy and skills coaching.
(734) 396-8956 View (734) 396-8956
Photo of Jerrold R. Brandell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Jerrold R. Brandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I am often contacted by clients unable to derive pleasure from their daily lives. At times, these problems are clearly linked to anxiety, depression, or to inner conflicts. However, at other times, clients are not able to point to specific symptoms, but rather are troubled by a vague sense of dissatisfaction that complicates relationships, work life, or their ability to be successful in school or in other pursuits. Previous attempts to solve these problems through the use of medications or by focusing on behavior or cognitions have proven less than satisfactory, and have led to an interest in trying insight-oriented psychotherapy.
I am often contacted by clients unable to derive pleasure from their daily lives. At times, these problems are clearly linked to anxiety, depression, or to inner conflicts. However, at other times, clients are not able to point to specific symptoms, but rather are troubled by a vague sense of dissatisfaction that complicates relationships, work life, or their ability to be successful in school or in other pursuits. Previous attempts to solve these problems through the use of medications or by focusing on behavior or cognitions have proven less than satisfactory, and have led to an interest in trying insight-oriented psychotherapy.
(734) 887-1189 View (734) 887-1189
Photo of Emmarie Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Emmarie Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I have a passion for people and mental health and recognize the strength and commitment it takes to assess and manage your emotions and behavior. I am dedicated to empowering my clients in making the meaningful changes necessary to move towards their goals and improved quality of life. I believe every person has the potential to overcome life's challenges and achieve the outcomes they desire. I embrace a person-centered, solution-focused, and collaborative therapeutic approach in which my clients and I work together to explore, identify, and achieve their goals.
I have a passion for people and mental health and recognize the strength and commitment it takes to assess and manage your emotions and behavior. I am dedicated to empowering my clients in making the meaningful changes necessary to move towards their goals and improved quality of life. I believe every person has the potential to overcome life's challenges and achieve the outcomes they desire. I embrace a person-centered, solution-focused, and collaborative therapeutic approach in which my clients and I work together to explore, identify, and achieve their goals.
(734) 412-7400 View (734) 412-7400
Photo of Howard M Erman, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Howard M Erman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Not accepting new clients
I designed my website, howarderman.com, for people considering psychotherapy and I think my mini-essay, Thoughts on How to Choose a Therapist, will help you even if you end up working with someone else. My own style is relaxed, engaged, sensitive and thoughtful as we explore current problems and underlying issues. I believe if our self-understanding is limited, we keep defeating ourselves in our actions, like being stuck in a hole and trying to dig our way out when that is the only action certain to get us in even deeper. With insight, support, and hard work, change begins.
I designed my website, howarderman.com, for people considering psychotherapy and I think my mini-essay, Thoughts on How to Choose a Therapist, will help you even if you end up working with someone else. My own style is relaxed, engaged, sensitive and thoughtful as we explore current problems and underlying issues. I believe if our self-understanding is limited, we keep defeating ourselves in our actions, like being stuck in a hole and trying to dig our way out when that is the only action certain to get us in even deeper. With insight, support, and hard work, change begins.
(734) 681-3266 View (734) 681-3266
Photo of Renee Sturm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Renee Sturm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I am excited to work with a variety of different people, but have the most experience with adolescents, teens, young adults, adults, and a spectrum of athletes at various levels and points in their careers who are dealing with an array of challenges in their lives. These include depression, anxiety, challenges in transitions, grief, relationship problems, substance use, sleep issues, personality disorders, and anger management. I have had the privilege of spending time with individuals of diverse populations and been a part of many great overall life improvements.
I am excited to work with a variety of different people, but have the most experience with adolescents, teens, young adults, adults, and a spectrum of athletes at various levels and points in their careers who are dealing with an array of challenges in their lives. These include depression, anxiety, challenges in transitions, grief, relationship problems, substance use, sleep issues, personality disorders, and anger management. I have had the privilege of spending time with individuals of diverse populations and been a part of many great overall life improvements.
(734) 600-9890 x501 View (734) 600-9890 x501
Photo of Lawrence Perlman, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Lawrence Perlman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
My work is short term and solution focused. I draw on several therapeutic approaches, depending on the nature of the problem, including behavior therapy, family therapy and strategic therapy. I have a diverse background from 50 years of experience in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I am expert in a number of psychotherapeutic approaches, including short-term solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, family-systems therapy, and psychoanalytic therapy. I developed an evidence-based wellness program with a positive psychology emphasis at the Ann Arbor VA Hospital.
My work is short term and solution focused. I draw on several therapeutic approaches, depending on the nature of the problem, including behavior therapy, family therapy and strategic therapy. I have a diverse background from 50 years of experience in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. I am expert in a number of psychotherapeutic approaches, including short-term solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, family-systems therapy, and psychoanalytic therapy. I developed an evidence-based wellness program with a positive psychology emphasis at the Ann Arbor VA Hospital.
(734) 357-8197 View (734) 357-8197
Charles Francis Spinazola
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I have over fifty years of providing a complete range of psychological services including neuropsychological evaluations, forensic evaluations, and treatment with psychotherapy and biofeedback. I employ a comprehensive program to assist children, adolescents, and adults with autism, depression, anxiety, AD(H)D, and concussions or traumatic brain injury. I am the only Fully Licensed PhD psychologist in Michigan who combines psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and QEEG-guided neurofeedback protocol development by a Board Certified Neurologist (Dr. Walker at www. neurotherapydallas.com) from the data bases at www.appliedneuroscience.com.
I have over fifty years of providing a complete range of psychological services including neuropsychological evaluations, forensic evaluations, and treatment with psychotherapy and biofeedback. I employ a comprehensive program to assist children, adolescents, and adults with autism, depression, anxiety, AD(H)D, and concussions or traumatic brain injury. I am the only Fully Licensed PhD psychologist in Michigan who combines psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and QEEG-guided neurofeedback protocol development by a Board Certified Neurologist (Dr. Walker at www. neurotherapydallas.com) from the data bases at www.appliedneuroscience.com.
(734) 717-6911 View (734) 717-6911
Photo of Ian Gackowski, Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
Ian Gackowski
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Currently scheduling morning and afternoon in-person appointments only. I provide a comfortable and judgment-free environment while also helping address the needs that are most important to you. I have provided therapy to both college-aged and adult populations in a variety of settings including several colleges and universities throughout the Midwest. I’ve worked with individuals facing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, adjustment-related stress, challenging relationship dynamics, grief/loss, and identity development.
Currently scheduling morning and afternoon in-person appointments only. I provide a comfortable and judgment-free environment while also helping address the needs that are most important to you. I have provided therapy to both college-aged and adult populations in a variety of settings including several colleges and universities throughout the Midwest. I’ve worked with individuals facing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, adjustment-related stress, challenging relationship dynamics, grief/loss, and identity development.
(734) 619-8130 View (734) 619-8130
Photo of Joel Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Joel Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
My approach in therapy is to be client-centered and pluralistic in methods of therapy. I place a strong emphasis on understanding the client and developing a safe therapeutic relationship that creates the space for healing therapeutic relationship. I use specific methods of therapy as needed, but the main focus is on understanding the client, and their unique history and personality. I am easy to talk to, and I also bring a strong sense of curiosity in understanding the person sitting across from me.
My approach in therapy is to be client-centered and pluralistic in methods of therapy. I place a strong emphasis on understanding the client and developing a safe therapeutic relationship that creates the space for healing therapeutic relationship. I use specific methods of therapy as needed, but the main focus is on understanding the client, and their unique history and personality. I am easy to talk to, and I also bring a strong sense of curiosity in understanding the person sitting across from me.
(734) 371-8434 View (734) 371-8434
Photo of Kelsey Benjamin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Kelsey Benjamin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Have you experienced a negative life changing event and have not felt the same since? Were you raised in an unhealthy or abusive home? Have you seen improvement with talk therapy but need something more? You could have trauma. Trauma can develop from a single incident like a car accident or sexual assault. It can also develop from multiple negative experiences over time. This could look like working in a toxic environment, having a very critical coach or parent or living in a home with domestic violence. If you are struggling with day to day life as a result of unresolved trauma, let's talk about using a different approach. ,
Have you experienced a negative life changing event and have not felt the same since? Were you raised in an unhealthy or abusive home? Have you seen improvement with talk therapy but need something more? You could have trauma. Trauma can develop from a single incident like a car accident or sexual assault. It can also develop from multiple negative experiences over time. This could look like working in a toxic environment, having a very critical coach or parent or living in a home with domestic violence. If you are struggling with day to day life as a result of unresolved trauma, let's talk about using a different approach. ,
(517) 300-3039 View (517) 300-3039
Photo of Angela Wall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Angela Wall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Life can be hard at times, and often very unpredictable. We may find ourselves not equipped with the tools we need to process all of life's challenges, or we may just need safe space to talk through the issues that arise. I believe in creating a collaborative space where my clients feel safe, secure and not judged to explore areas and skills to help you live your best life.
Life can be hard at times, and often very unpredictable. We may find ourselves not equipped with the tools we need to process all of life's challenges, or we may just need safe space to talk through the issues that arise. I believe in creating a collaborative space where my clients feel safe, secure and not judged to explore areas and skills to help you live your best life.
(734) 215-9114 View (734) 215-9114
Photo of Rebecca Margolis DeRaud, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Rebecca Margolis DeRaud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
As the Greek Philosopher, Heraclitus, stated, "The only constant in life is change." We all experience transitions in life, but we do not need to go through them alone. Similar to hiring an architect when building a house, or a personal trainer when working on fitness goals, my role is to assist you in navigating your way through the twists and turns of life's transitions.
As the Greek Philosopher, Heraclitus, stated, "The only constant in life is change." We all experience transitions in life, but we do not need to go through them alone. Similar to hiring an architect when building a house, or a personal trainer when working on fitness goals, my role is to assist you in navigating your way through the twists and turns of life's transitions.
(248) 617-4805 View (248) 617-4805
Photo of Wise Owl Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ann Arbor, MI
Wise Owl Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Our approach to therapy is non-judgmental, person-centered, and collaborative. Wise Owl has experience with a variety of mental illnesses and disorders, especially ones that are trauma-based. Life is also full of humor and warmth; Wise Owl incorporates that into the practice as well. We aim to be a support system for clients who are going through the experience of daily life, as well as provide them with psychoeducation so they may further learn about themselves. You, the client, are the writer of your own story; it is our goal to support you through any personal work, trauma processing, diagnosis, or disabilities you experience.
Our approach to therapy is non-judgmental, person-centered, and collaborative. Wise Owl has experience with a variety of mental illnesses and disorders, especially ones that are trauma-based. Life is also full of humor and warmth; Wise Owl incorporates that into the practice as well. We aim to be a support system for clients who are going through the experience of daily life, as well as provide them with psychoeducation so they may further learn about themselves. You, the client, are the writer of your own story; it is our goal to support you through any personal work, trauma processing, diagnosis, or disabilities you experience.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Ann Arbor?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.