Therapists in Angelina County, TX

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Photo of Tere Pamela Ortega, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Tere Pamela Ortega
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lufkin, TX 75901
Does it feel like everyday you have less hope? Maybe you've been making an effort to create a happy life for yourself but it actually feels like you’re just surviving. There comes a time when you can't hold it in anymore, nor should you. You deserve a chance to heal from the pain and stress you've been carrying for so long. Many of my clients have a history of trauma. Others struggle with debilitating anxiety or depression. Some are parents feeling desperate to find the right type of help for their child.
Does it feel like everyday you have less hope? Maybe you've been making an effort to create a happy life for yourself but it actually feels like you’re just surviving. There comes a time when you can't hold it in anymore, nor should you. You deserve a chance to heal from the pain and stress you've been carrying for so long. Many of my clients have a history of trauma. Others struggle with debilitating anxiety or depression. Some are parents feeling desperate to find the right type of help for their child.
(430) 204-2037 View (430) 204-2037
Photo of Elizabeth Copes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Elizabeth Copes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Lufkin, TX 75901
Meeting someone new maybe anxiety provoking, but starting therapy? That is truly a daunting task! You’ve made the first step by recognizing that maybe you should talk to someone. Now, all of these bios sound about the same. Which one to pick? How do you know which one will help you the most? You may be thinking, “oh, forget it, I just can’t make that decision right now.” Or, “I don’t want to sit for an hour and cry while I tell a total stranger my life’s story.” Or, “what if someone finds out that I’m not perfect. What if this person thinks I’m crazy and wants to lock me away forever?“ …
Meeting someone new maybe anxiety provoking, but starting therapy? That is truly a daunting task! You’ve made the first step by recognizing that maybe you should talk to someone. Now, all of these bios sound about the same. Which one to pick? How do you know which one will help you the most? You may be thinking, “oh, forget it, I just can’t make that decision right now.” Or, “I don’t want to sit for an hour and cry while I tell a total stranger my life’s story.” Or, “what if someone finds out that I’m not perfect. What if this person thinks I’m crazy and wants to lock me away forever?“ …
(936) 227-5470 View (936) 227-5470
Photo of Angela Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Angela Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lufkin, TX 75904
They say that "hindsight is 20/20". Isn't it true that we gain much better perspective and insight into ourselves once the storm passes? It would be so helpful if we had wisdom and clarity in the midst of it to guide us through. This is where therapy can help. A counselor's professional training and unbiased view of your situation can provide much needed perspective and support. In my office, you will be met with compassion and understanding, and will gain valuable skills to self manage critical moments in your life. As we work together, It is my heartfelt desire to make a meaningful difference in your life.
They say that "hindsight is 20/20". Isn't it true that we gain much better perspective and insight into ourselves once the storm passes? It would be so helpful if we had wisdom and clarity in the midst of it to guide us through. This is where therapy can help. A counselor's professional training and unbiased view of your situation can provide much needed perspective and support. In my office, you will be met with compassion and understanding, and will gain valuable skills to self manage critical moments in your life. As we work together, It is my heartfelt desire to make a meaningful difference in your life.
(936) 247-9548 View (936) 247-9548
Photo of Dr. Velma 'jean' Stanley - Pathways Forensic & Mental Health Services, Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPCS, LSOTPS
Pathways Forensic & Mental Health Services
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPCS, LSOTPS
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75904
PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES: Dr. Velma "JEAN" Stanley, Owner & Clinical Director of Pathways Forensic & Mental Health Services, PLLC, Dr. V. Jean Stanley, LPC-S, LSOTP-S provides both court-related and NON-court-related counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. More specifically, the forensic component of Dr. Stanley's practice involves the application of psychological research, theory, and clinical practice to the legal/criminal justice system. As such, she provides consultations, and is available on a case-by-case basis to serve as an expert witness in sex crime cases.
PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES: Dr. Velma "JEAN" Stanley, Owner & Clinical Director of Pathways Forensic & Mental Health Services, PLLC, Dr. V. Jean Stanley, LPC-S, LSOTP-S provides both court-related and NON-court-related counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. More specifically, the forensic component of Dr. Stanley's practice involves the application of psychological research, theory, and clinical practice to the legal/criminal justice system. As such, she provides consultations, and is available on a case-by-case basis to serve as an expert witness in sex crime cases.
(936) 225-4364 View (936) 225-4364
Photo of Katie A. Pivonka, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Katie A. Pivonka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the stressors of family, work and community? We all do! Starting therapy to help cope with life's challenges can be overwhelming, but I am here with you through the process to help you find your resilience. I am here to guide you through the process of therapy in order to support you in the work of making positive changes towards your goals.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the stressors of family, work and community? We all do! Starting therapy to help cope with life's challenges can be overwhelming, but I am here with you through the process to help you find your resilience. I am here to guide you through the process of therapy in order to support you in the work of making positive changes towards your goals.
(936) 237-7224 View (936) 237-7224
Photo of Shelby Renee Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shelby Renee Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lufkin, TX 75904
An ideal client for a counselor is someone who is motivated to change, open to introspection, and seeking support for emotional healing, personal growth, or mental health challenges. Their Needs: Emotional Support, Self-Awareness, Stress and Anxiety Relief, Relationship Help, Purpose and Identity. Their Goals: Emotional Healing, Self Improvement, Life Balance, Improved Relationships. What They Want: Feeling Understood, Practical Tools, Hope and Motivation. The ideal client is someone ready to engage in therapy, work on their goals, and build a trusting relationship with their counselor.
An ideal client for a counselor is someone who is motivated to change, open to introspection, and seeking support for emotional healing, personal growth, or mental health challenges. Their Needs: Emotional Support, Self-Awareness, Stress and Anxiety Relief, Relationship Help, Purpose and Identity. Their Goals: Emotional Healing, Self Improvement, Life Balance, Improved Relationships. What They Want: Feeling Understood, Practical Tools, Hope and Motivation. The ideal client is someone ready to engage in therapy, work on their goals, and build a trusting relationship with their counselor.
(936) 287-5485 View (936) 287-5485
Photo of Annie Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Annie Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing pain, anxiety, and disconnection, and wanting things to change, but not sure how? Change can be scary and hard, even if we understand it may be necessary. Together, we will identify the unique strengths you have to help you regain peace and improve your mental health. Maybe you're struggling in a relationship, constantly worried, or feeling overwhelmed. You deserve to know you are not alone. I am a relationship-centered therapist who provides a genuine and safe space for you to be fully seen and heard. An outside perspective can help you make sense of things. Tell me your story - I want to hear it.
Are you experiencing pain, anxiety, and disconnection, and wanting things to change, but not sure how? Change can be scary and hard, even if we understand it may be necessary. Together, we will identify the unique strengths you have to help you regain peace and improve your mental health. Maybe you're struggling in a relationship, constantly worried, or feeling overwhelmed. You deserve to know you are not alone. I am a relationship-centered therapist who provides a genuine and safe space for you to be fully seen and heard. An outside perspective can help you make sense of things. Tell me your story - I want to hear it.
(936) 227-5512 View (936) 227-5512
Photo of Elizabeth Teti, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Elizabeth Teti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I believe that we all struggle from time to time, whether it be feeling anxious or depressed, or struggling from core issues, and traumas. Therapy should be a safe space to to explore these issues and learn more about ourselves. I am a therapist that has worked with individuals who have experienced trauma, recovery from substance abuse and Inam passionate about helping people heal. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and certified yoga teacher. I believe there’s a strong connection between our body and our minds and our coping skills lying between.
I believe that we all struggle from time to time, whether it be feeling anxious or depressed, or struggling from core issues, and traumas. Therapy should be a safe space to to explore these issues and learn more about ourselves. I am a therapist that has worked with individuals who have experienced trauma, recovery from substance abuse and Inam passionate about helping people heal. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and certified yoga teacher. I believe there’s a strong connection between our body and our minds and our coping skills lying between.
(936) 233-6657 View (936) 233-6657
Photo of Cyndi S Gamble, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Cyndi S Gamble
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Lufkin, TX 75904
With over 22 years of experience providing a broad range of mental health services, my current practice strongly emphasizes providing therapeutic interventions for families, individuals and couples needing counseling services, while also welcoming the opportunity to work with adolescents with behavioral and emotional challenges. Over the course of my 20 year career, I have gained experience in many elements of the mental health field. Some of those include clinical intake, general counseling, marital counseling, crisis intervention, crisis management, facilitating psychoeducational groups, and child behavior management.
With over 22 years of experience providing a broad range of mental health services, my current practice strongly emphasizes providing therapeutic interventions for families, individuals and couples needing counseling services, while also welcoming the opportunity to work with adolescents with behavioral and emotional challenges. Over the course of my 20 year career, I have gained experience in many elements of the mental health field. Some of those include clinical intake, general counseling, marital counseling, crisis intervention, crisis management, facilitating psychoeducational groups, and child behavior management.
(936) 226-0363 View (936) 226-0363
Photo of Debra K Burton, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT
Debra K Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75904
I am the owner of the Counseling Center of East Texas, PLLC, and I have had the privilege of providing individual, marriage, and family counseling for many clients in the greater East Texas area for over 35 years. I have had the honor of coming along side people in their greatest time of need and seeing them persevere and grow through their life challenges, so they can lead productive and fulfilling lives. I also have the pleasure of listening to, supporting, and encouraging clients to make heathy decisions that can help them discover a clear pathway for health and wholeness.
I am the owner of the Counseling Center of East Texas, PLLC, and I have had the privilege of providing individual, marriage, and family counseling for many clients in the greater East Texas area for over 35 years. I have had the honor of coming along side people in their greatest time of need and seeing them persevere and grow through their life challenges, so they can lead productive and fulfilling lives. I also have the pleasure of listening to, supporting, and encouraging clients to make heathy decisions that can help them discover a clear pathway for health and wholeness.
(936) 310-3760 View (936) 310-3760
Photo of Chandler Lowther, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Chandler Lowther
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75904
As someone who has been a school counselor I realize that a child's mental health is often times directly correlated to their parents mental health. For that reason I love serving children and or adults that struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. In addition to serving school aged children, I also have a huge heart for those who are in need of pregnancy related counseling. Whether it be that they are dealing with loss, infertility, or postpartum depression I believe this is a population that is underserved and in need of mental health assistance.
As someone who has been a school counselor I realize that a child's mental health is often times directly correlated to their parents mental health. For that reason I love serving children and or adults that struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. In addition to serving school aged children, I also have a huge heart for those who are in need of pregnancy related counseling. Whether it be that they are dealing with loss, infertility, or postpartum depression I believe this is a population that is underserved and in need of mental health assistance.
(936) 237-6144 View (936) 237-6144
Photo of Scott Catchot, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Scott Catchot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lufkin, TX 75901
While I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients, I have particular experience supporting those in ministry, individuals working within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and families navigating complex dynamics. In our first few sessions, you can expect a focus on building trust and forming a strong therapeutic relationship as we explore your concerns and goals together. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with dual Master's degrees in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, I am committed to helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges.
While I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients, I have particular experience supporting those in ministry, individuals working within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and families navigating complex dynamics. In our first few sessions, you can expect a focus on building trust and forming a strong therapeutic relationship as we explore your concerns and goals together. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with dual Master's degrees in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy, I am committed to helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges.
(936) 879-6512 View (936) 879-6512
Photo of Monica Oliver - Monica Oliver dba Monica Oliver, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Monica Oliver dba Monica Oliver, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75904
Ms. Monica Oliver, MA., LPC, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her clients. offered. Providing services through Pathways Forensic & Mental Health Services, PLLC, Monica is a long-time resident of East Texas, Monica received her first college degree from Angelina College, in Lufkin, Texas, where she earned an Associates of Applied Arts in social work. She later earned a BA in psychology, a BA in sociology, and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Monica worked for 6 years as a school counselor in Shepherd, TX.
Ms. Monica Oliver, MA., LPC, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her clients. offered. Providing services through Pathways Forensic & Mental Health Services, PLLC, Monica is a long-time resident of East Texas, Monica received her first college degree from Angelina College, in Lufkin, Texas, where she earned an Associates of Applied Arts in social work. She later earned a BA in psychology, a BA in sociology, and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Monica worked for 6 years as a school counselor in Shepherd, TX.
(936) 666-1521 View (936) 666-1521
Photo of Joe Morales, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Joe Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lufkin, TX 75904
My ideal client is someone who is eager to confront their challenges head-on, determined to overcome obstacles, and ready to confront the fears that often hold us back. They are motivated and committed to a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, embracing therapy as a means to gain insight, resilience, and a deeper understanding of themselves. Together, we work toward positive transformation and empowerment.
My ideal client is someone who is eager to confront their challenges head-on, determined to overcome obstacles, and ready to confront the fears that often hold us back. They are motivated and committed to a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, embracing therapy as a means to gain insight, resilience, and a deeper understanding of themselves. Together, we work toward positive transformation and empowerment.
(936) 930-6062 View (936) 930-6062
Photo of Julieta Banda Edmond, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Julieta Banda Edmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75901
Are you ready to challenge generational cycles, step out of your comfort (stuck) zone, and ready to embrace change and growth? Do you aspire to create a lifestyle that resonates with your needs and values, enabling you to thrive in your personal and interpersonal experiences. Maybe your goals are centered on self-improvement and fostering healthier relationships or you aim to cultivate a better understanding of your emotions, develop effective communication skills, and establish boundaries that support your mental and emotional well-being.
Are you ready to challenge generational cycles, step out of your comfort (stuck) zone, and ready to embrace change and growth? Do you aspire to create a lifestyle that resonates with your needs and values, enabling you to thrive in your personal and interpersonal experiences. Maybe your goals are centered on self-improvement and fostering healthier relationships or you aim to cultivate a better understanding of your emotions, develop effective communication skills, and establish boundaries that support your mental and emotional well-being.
(936) 315-3395 View (936) 315-3395
Photo of James Weihe, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
James Weihe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lufkin, TX 75904
We all carry a lot—sometimes more than we realize. When life feels heavy, it helps to have someone in your corner. Together, we can figure out what’s been making things feel so hard and start finding ways to make life feel lighter and more manageable. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, parenting challenges, self-doubt, or feeling stuck in old patterns, we can work through it step by step.
We all carry a lot—sometimes more than we realize. When life feels heavy, it helps to have someone in your corner. Together, we can figure out what’s been making things feel so hard and start finding ways to make life feel lighter and more manageable. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, parenting challenges, self-doubt, or feeling stuck in old patterns, we can work through it step by step.
(936) 220-2786 View (936) 220-2786
Photo of Donna Kay Cowart, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Donna Kay Cowart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Lufkin, TX 75901
You feel like a failure. No matter how hard you've tried to make this relationship work, It's still no use. In fact, sometimes it feels like the more effort you put in, the worse things get. You used to love talking to your husband, but now every conversation turns into a fight. There was a time not that long ago when you were sure you'd be together forever, but now you don't know. There's a part of you that wants to give up and stop working tirelessly to keep it all together, but thinking about how this will affect your children and family is overwhelming. You don't know what to do; it feels hopeless.
You feel like a failure. No matter how hard you've tried to make this relationship work, It's still no use. In fact, sometimes it feels like the more effort you put in, the worse things get. You used to love talking to your husband, but now every conversation turns into a fight. There was a time not that long ago when you were sure you'd be together forever, but now you don't know. There's a part of you that wants to give up and stop working tirelessly to keep it all together, but thinking about how this will affect your children and family is overwhelming. You don't know what to do; it feels hopeless.
(936) 237-7031 View (936) 237-7031
Photo of Arthur Ray Coleman, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Arthur Ray Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Lufkin, TX 75904
Being constantly fearless and strong in a rapidly changing world can be overwhelming and exhausting. Black men, in particular, find adjustment to shifting circumstances difficult due to cultural stigma against appearing weak in any sense and inherent societal prejudices and misinformation. Too often, positive contribution is minimized while normal human failings are blown out of proportion.
Being constantly fearless and strong in a rapidly changing world can be overwhelming and exhausting. Black men, in particular, find adjustment to shifting circumstances difficult due to cultural stigma against appearing weak in any sense and inherent societal prejudices and misinformation. Too often, positive contribution is minimized while normal human failings are blown out of proportion.
(936) 274-7539 View (936) 274-7539
Photo of Rance Duff, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC A
Rance Duff
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC A
Lufkin, TX 75901
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or marriage/relationship concerns? Life can be incredibly challenging, but you don't have to navigate these difficulties alone. I'm here to help you find your way to a more balanced, fulfilling life. From our first session, my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel understood and valued.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or marriage/relationship concerns? Life can be incredibly challenging, but you don't have to navigate these difficulties alone. I'm here to help you find your way to a more balanced, fulfilling life. From our first session, my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel understood and valued.
(936) 298-5377 View (936) 298-5377
Photo of Dennis Steelman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Dennis Steelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? If you're ready to make a change, I’m here to help. We’ll explore how your thinking shapes your life and develop practical tools to help you feel more in control. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma, and can guide you to a better way of thinking. If you’re looking for change and are open to learning new strategies, let’s talk. I offer free consultations to help you understand how therapy works and how it can benefit you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? If you're ready to make a change, I’m here to help. We’ll explore how your thinking shapes your life and develop practical tools to help you feel more in control. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma, and can guide you to a better way of thinking. If you’re looking for change and are open to learning new strategies, let’s talk. I offer free consultations to help you understand how therapy works and how it can benefit you.
(936) 246-0881 View (936) 246-0881

See more therapy options for Angelina County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Angelina County, TX

60+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Angelina County, TX who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Coping Skills
71% Trauma and PTSD
65% Relationship Issues
65% Self Esteem
62% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth
81% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Angelina County, TX see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
26% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Angelina County?

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.