Therapists in North Austin, Austin, TX

Photo of Lauren Mickle, MS, BC-DMT
Lauren Mickle
Verified Verified
North Austin, Austin, TX 78758
If you’ve ever felt like your emotions are too big, your past too heavy, or your path too unclear — you’re not alone. I support clients of all ages navigating complex trauma, emotional overwhelm, anxiety, and life transitions. Using body-based therapy grounded in compassion and attunement, I help you reconnect with your inner resources through movement, breath, and reflection. Together, we create a space to feel safe in your body, make meaning from your experiences, and move toward healing — at your own pace.
If you’ve ever felt like your emotions are too big, your past too heavy, or your path too unclear — you’re not alone. I support clients of all ages navigating complex trauma, emotional overwhelm, anxiety, and life transitions. Using body-based therapy grounded in compassion and attunement, I help you reconnect with your inner resources through movement, breath, and reflection. Together, we create a space to feel safe in your body, make meaning from your experiences, and move toward healing — at your own pace.
(512) 609-0996 View (512) 609-0996
Photo of Nica Ayala, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Nica Ayala
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
North Austin, Austin, TX 78758
Do you love plants? Me too! Welcome to Nature Therapy! I'm an Austin therapist helping people that struggle with anxiety, trauma, loneliness or any emotions that feel “too big.” Finding happiness, healing, or purpose is SO HARD when you're already drained and overwhelmed. What do you change if you don't know how or where to start? Being here is a great start! You're already capable. Going outside just reminds you to breathe, relax, and reset. Nature is a calm, safe, supportive environment for you to explore healing, coping strategies, and your own resilience. Grounding, mindfulness and meditation show you strengths you already have.
Do you love plants? Me too! Welcome to Nature Therapy! I'm an Austin therapist helping people that struggle with anxiety, trauma, loneliness or any emotions that feel “too big.” Finding happiness, healing, or purpose is SO HARD when you're already drained and overwhelmed. What do you change if you don't know how or where to start? Being here is a great start! You're already capable. Going outside just reminds you to breathe, relax, and reset. Nature is a calm, safe, supportive environment for you to explore healing, coping strategies, and your own resilience. Grounding, mindfulness and meditation show you strengths you already have.
(737) 530-4765 View (737) 530-4765
Photo of Matthew Lawson Magruder, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Matthew Lawson Magruder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
North Austin, Austin, TX 78758
In it’s most distilled-down description, I believe in curiosity and process. My therapy style is focused on building an authentic and emotionally-engaged connection with each and every one of my clients by creating a safe, trusting environment from the moment I meet them. I have an unwavering faith in the inherent goodness and flame of truth that lives within us all and work with my clients from this stance. I also believe every person deserves patience and understanding as to their unique needs in the therapeutic process and that the authentic and secure relationship I develop with them can lead to profound transformation.
In it’s most distilled-down description, I believe in curiosity and process. My therapy style is focused on building an authentic and emotionally-engaged connection with each and every one of my clients by creating a safe, trusting environment from the moment I meet them. I have an unwavering faith in the inherent goodness and flame of truth that lives within us all and work with my clients from this stance. I also believe every person deserves patience and understanding as to their unique needs in the therapeutic process and that the authentic and secure relationship I develop with them can lead to profound transformation.
(737) 216-8518 View (737) 216-8518
Photo of Greer Culbertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Greer Culbertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
3 Endorsed
North Austin, Austin, TX 78758
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, shame, loneliness, or grief? Do you feel "stuck" in life? Are your relationships weighing you down rather than building you up? You have taken a brave and difficult step—you have acknowledged that there is a problem. As your therapist, we develop a safe and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship. I have a holistic, client-centered, intuitive and direct approach. Having battled my own anxiety and depression, I use many techniques that have been helpful on my own journey, including mindfulness-based tools, CBT, and relational psychotherapy. I also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, shame, loneliness, or grief? Do you feel "stuck" in life? Are your relationships weighing you down rather than building you up? You have taken a brave and difficult step—you have acknowledged that there is a problem. As your therapist, we develop a safe and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship. I have a holistic, client-centered, intuitive and direct approach. Having battled my own anxiety and depression, I use many techniques that have been helpful on my own journey, including mindfulness-based tools, CBT, and relational psychotherapy. I also provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
(512) 823-1112 View (512) 823-1112
Photo of Isha Banerjea - Lotus Rising ATX, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Lotus Rising ATX, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
3 Endorsed
North Austin, Austin, TX 78758
I am a multi-cultural therapist who is passionate about mindfulness and body-centered tools to empower you in your healing journey. I provide virtual Trauma-Informed therapy to adults from diverse backgrounds, cultures, identities, and experiences. My areas of specialty include working with people experiencing and coping with: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Substance Use Challenges, Trauma/Post-traumatic Stress, Relationship Challenges, Life transitions, and clients exploring spirituality and/or their identity/identities (BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ Affirming).
I am a multi-cultural therapist who is passionate about mindfulness and body-centered tools to empower you in your healing journey. I provide virtual Trauma-Informed therapy to adults from diverse backgrounds, cultures, identities, and experiences. My areas of specialty include working with people experiencing and coping with: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Substance Use Challenges, Trauma/Post-traumatic Stress, Relationship Challenges, Life transitions, and clients exploring spirituality and/or their identity/identities (BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ Affirming).
(512) 229-9186 View (512) 229-9186
Photo of Jenna Sumners, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA
Jenna Sumners
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA
North Austin, Austin, TX 78758
Hello and welcome! I work primarily with adults, however, I serve clients from diverse backgrounds seeking support for various challenges, including anxiety, life transitions, and relationship issues. My approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals feel heard and respected. As your counselor, my goal is to guide you in developing coping strategies, fostering self-awareness, and navigating life's complexities with resilience. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, working together to identify your unique strengths and goals.
Hello and welcome! I work primarily with adults, however, I serve clients from diverse backgrounds seeking support for various challenges, including anxiety, life transitions, and relationship issues. My approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals feel heard and respected. As your counselor, my goal is to guide you in developing coping strategies, fostering self-awareness, and navigating life's complexities with resilience. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, working together to identify your unique strengths and goals.
(512) 548-4280 View (512) 548-4280
Photo of Sam Stokesberry, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Sam Stokesberry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
My work focuses on supporting clients who are navigating through tricky family dynamics and intense relational stress. I am a great fit for clients who want to understand themselves better, manage their anxiety more effectively, and show up more intentionally and authentically in their relationships with others. My sessions involve a combination of laugher and playfulness, deep and serious reflection, honest feedback and direct challenges, and ample space for you to freely express your thoughts and feelings without judgment or shame.
My work focuses on supporting clients who are navigating through tricky family dynamics and intense relational stress. I am a great fit for clients who want to understand themselves better, manage their anxiety more effectively, and show up more intentionally and authentically in their relationships with others. My sessions involve a combination of laugher and playfulness, deep and serious reflection, honest feedback and direct challenges, and ample space for you to freely express your thoughts and feelings without judgment or shame.
(737) 250-7272 View (737) 250-7272
Photo of Nicolas Carrasco, Psychologist, PhD, LSOTP
Nicolas Carrasco
Psychologist, PhD, LSOTP
Serves Area
I hold a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. I am internationally recognized for my work with adolescents and their families in the areas of trauma and problematic sexual behavior, and I present regularly about my work at conferences locally, nationally, and internationally. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), and I have extensive experience in clinical and forensic (legal) settings. I provide therapy, consultation, and expert testimony, especially in the area of problematic sexual behaviors and trauma, in English and Spanish.
I hold a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. I am internationally recognized for my work with adolescents and their families in the areas of trauma and problematic sexual behavior, and I present regularly about my work at conferences locally, nationally, and internationally. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), and I have extensive experience in clinical and forensic (legal) settings. I provide therapy, consultation, and expert testimony, especially in the area of problematic sexual behaviors and trauma, in English and Spanish.
(737) 204-9093 View (737) 204-9093
Photo of Avery Brookshire, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, ADS
Avery Brookshire
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, ADS
10 Endorsed
Serves Area
Regardless of what led you here, congratulations on taking this meaningful step toward healing and growth. I believe that wounds formed in relationship can also be healed through relationship. My hope is that our work together will help you process past pain, develop tools to reach your goals, and ultimately become a version of yourself that you feel proud of and connected to. As a trauma-informed therapist, I regularly incorporate EMDR, IFS (parts work), and somatic therapy into my work. For those who desire, faith can also be integrated into our sessions. I am a Christian and am open and welcoming to clients of all beliefs.
Regardless of what led you here, congratulations on taking this meaningful step toward healing and growth. I believe that wounds formed in relationship can also be healed through relationship. My hope is that our work together will help you process past pain, develop tools to reach your goals, and ultimately become a version of yourself that you feel proud of and connected to. As a trauma-informed therapist, I regularly incorporate EMDR, IFS (parts work), and somatic therapy into my work. For those who desire, faith can also be integrated into our sessions. I am a Christian and am open and welcoming to clients of all beliefs.
(512) 980-3818 View (512) 980-3818
Photo of Amy Serafin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Amy Serafin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
You're a hard working people pleaser, and you've had the habit of prioritizing your relationships with your significant other, boss, parents, kids, friends, etc. Now you're thinking, "how'd I lose myself and get so burnt out?" You're psychologically minded, but it's hard to integrate what you know intellectually to actually feel better emotionally and physically. You want to get unstuck, out of your head, and out of relationship patterns that suck all your energy only to make you feel alone. It'd be nice to feel connected and seen but not suffocated, soothed and less anxious but still allowed to keep your edge.
You're a hard working people pleaser, and you've had the habit of prioritizing your relationships with your significant other, boss, parents, kids, friends, etc. Now you're thinking, "how'd I lose myself and get so burnt out?" You're psychologically minded, but it's hard to integrate what you know intellectually to actually feel better emotionally and physically. You want to get unstuck, out of your head, and out of relationship patterns that suck all your energy only to make you feel alone. It'd be nice to feel connected and seen but not suffocated, soothed and less anxious but still allowed to keep your edge.
(512) 572-5092 View (512) 572-5092
Photo of Kyle Kearns - Kyle Kearns- Couples, Sexuality, & Trauma, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A, LPC-A, PhD, MA
Kyle Kearns- Couples, Sexuality, & Trauma
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A, LPC-A, PhD, MA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
If my full fee is a challenge, please ask about flexible sliding scale options—I’m happy to discuss! I offer compassionate, tailored couples therapy and mental health counseling using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. IFS helps explore the complex parts of you that shape your experience and is effective for healing trauma like religious shame, relationship injuries, marginalization, abuse, and chronic stress. I also work extensively with clients in stigmatized relationships—queer, consensual non-monogamy, mixed-neurodtype, kink, long-distance, and polyamory. Sessions: 50 min $135, 75 min $180.
If my full fee is a challenge, please ask about flexible sliding scale options—I’m happy to discuss! I offer compassionate, tailored couples therapy and mental health counseling using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. IFS helps explore the complex parts of you that shape your experience and is effective for healing trauma like religious shame, relationship injuries, marginalization, abuse, and chronic stress. I also work extensively with clients in stigmatized relationships—queer, consensual non-monogamy, mixed-neurodtype, kink, long-distance, and polyamory. Sessions: 50 min $135, 75 min $180.
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Photo of Liliana Jernigan - LJ Therapy Group, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
LJ Therapy Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone navigating a big life shift. They may feel stuck in a relationship, overwhelmed by anxiety, or unsure of who they are becoming. They want clarity, connection, and to feel like themselves again. In therapy, we explore what is beneath the surface, identify patterns, and build tools that support real change. If I am not the right fit, I have a trusted team of skilled bilingual therapists who offer the same thoughtful and personalized care. You do not have to do this alone.
My ideal client is someone navigating a big life shift. They may feel stuck in a relationship, overwhelmed by anxiety, or unsure of who they are becoming. They want clarity, connection, and to feel like themselves again. In therapy, we explore what is beneath the surface, identify patterns, and build tools that support real change. If I am not the right fit, I have a trusted team of skilled bilingual therapists who offer the same thoughtful and personalized care. You do not have to do this alone.
(830) 971-0951 View (830) 971-0951
Photo of Lisl Stadler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A, MA
Lisl Stadler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A, MA
Serves Area
We are all part of interconnected systems, like families, workplaces, and schools. These systems shape us, for better and for worse. They also send us powerful messages about who we’re “supposed” to be. Sometimes this causes us to get stuck in a story of who we are that we didn't author and don't know how to change. Therapy gives us space to critically examine the narratives that have come to shape our lives, and the ability to reauthor them moving forward. Understanding how we learned to behave gives us more power to decide how we behave now.
We are all part of interconnected systems, like families, workplaces, and schools. These systems shape us, for better and for worse. They also send us powerful messages about who we’re “supposed” to be. Sometimes this causes us to get stuck in a story of who we are that we didn't author and don't know how to change. Therapy gives us space to critically examine the narratives that have come to shape our lives, and the ability to reauthor them moving forward. Understanding how we learned to behave gives us more power to decide how we behave now.
(737) 899-1995 View (737) 899-1995
Photo of Katie Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Katie Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Starting therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown, and it’s brave just to take that first step. You deserve support that feels safe, genuine, and tailored to you. I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are navigating all that life has to offer.
Starting therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown, and it’s brave just to take that first step. You deserve support that feels safe, genuine, and tailored to you. I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are navigating all that life has to offer.
(512) 543-2862 View (512) 543-2862
Photo of Ashley Ratcliffe, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ashley Ratcliffe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I am Ashley Ratcliffe, a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples. I am passionate about helping others find the link between the way we process emotions and how we experience the world. I specialize in anxiety, adjustment, relationship issues, and parent coaching.
I am Ashley Ratcliffe, a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples. I am passionate about helping others find the link between the way we process emotions and how we experience the world. I specialize in anxiety, adjustment, relationship issues, and parent coaching.
(855) 303-0225 View (855) 303-0225
Photo of Gay Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Gay Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 30 years of experience in the mental health field, and I am passionate about partnering with adults to transform their lives. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma. I completed my Master of Divinity at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. As a single mother for 40 years, I bring ample experience in child-rearing and supporting adult children. My life experiences, combined with my professional expertise, allow me to build a partnership that can help you transform your life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 30 years of experience in the mental health field, and I am passionate about partnering with adults to transform their lives. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma. I completed my Master of Divinity at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. As a single mother for 40 years, I bring ample experience in child-rearing and supporting adult children. My life experiences, combined with my professional expertise, allow me to build a partnership that can help you transform your life.
(855) 303-0225 View (855) 303-0225
Photo of Elisa Chamberlain - Elisa Chamberlain, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisa Chamberlain, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Simply put, relationships can be so hard! I am here to help you work through the most challenging moments in your relationship. Your marriage relationship with your partner may feel like it’s fizzling. Do you feel that you just cannot communicate and struggle to hear each other? How do you know if your relationship is over or not? Are you struggling to deal with past hurts that haunt your ability to trust your partner again? Do you just want to focus on getting back to a healthy relationship? I have focused years of education and training on helping couples and families work on rebuilding their relationship.
Simply put, relationships can be so hard! I am here to help you work through the most challenging moments in your relationship. Your marriage relationship with your partner may feel like it’s fizzling. Do you feel that you just cannot communicate and struggle to hear each other? How do you know if your relationship is over or not? Are you struggling to deal with past hurts that haunt your ability to trust your partner again? Do you just want to focus on getting back to a healthy relationship? I have focused years of education and training on helping couples and families work on rebuilding their relationship.
(737) 214-7795 View (737) 214-7795
Photo of Ann Cleland, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Ann Cleland
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes life feels a little heavy. You may feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious. You are not alone. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in Austin, Texas. I approach therapy with a person-centered, trauma informed approach for adults experiencing anxiety, burnout, grief, change or just feeling stuck.
Sometimes life feels a little heavy. You may feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious. You are not alone. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in Austin, Texas. I approach therapy with a person-centered, trauma informed approach for adults experiencing anxiety, burnout, grief, change or just feeling stuck.
(737) 352-4136 View (737) 352-4136
Photo of Dave Kaplowitz, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CGP
Dave Kaplowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CGP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Relationships can be the most important and supportive part of life but can often be difficult and filled with conflict. We can experience difficulty at home, at work, with friends, with coworkers, or extended family. Whether it is online or in person, we spend a lot of our day interacting with others and problematic relationships often negatively affect our overall mental health.
Relationships can be the most important and supportive part of life but can often be difficult and filled with conflict. We can experience difficulty at home, at work, with friends, with coworkers, or extended family. Whether it is online or in person, we spend a lot of our day interacting with others and problematic relationships often negatively affect our overall mental health.
(737) 510-7942 View (737) 510-7942
Photo of Amanda Cartwright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Amanda Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is inevitably composed of episodes of change. From new experiences and life events to trauma and loss, transitions in life challenge ones' emotional balance. When first entering therapy I believe that it is natural to be unable to identify all of these feelings. Often you may only know that “something is off”. My goal is to sit with you through uncertainty and walk with you through the process of self-exploration and healing.
Life is inevitably composed of episodes of change. From new experiences and life events to trauma and loss, transitions in life challenge ones' emotional balance. When first entering therapy I believe that it is natural to be unable to identify all of these feelings. Often you may only know that “something is off”. My goal is to sit with you through uncertainty and walk with you through the process of self-exploration and healing.
(512) 265-8859 View (512) 265-8859

See more therapy options for North Austin, Austin

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in North Austin, Austin, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in North Austin, Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
79% Stress
74% Self Esteem
65% Grief
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in North Austin, Austin, TX see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in North Austin, Austin?

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.