Therapists in Dallas, TX

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Photo of Christopher DeFranco, Counselor, LCPC, LPC-S
Christopher DeFranco
Counselor, LCPC, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
(443) 233-1235 View (443) 233-1235
Photo of Lena Carvalho, Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC
Lena Carvalho
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240
From the outside, you may look like you have it all together. Inside, you may be struggling with anxiety, overthinking, burnout, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or relationship stress. I work with individuals across Texas who are feeling overwhelmed, burdened, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. I use a trauma-informed lens and strengths-based approach, to guide you towards insight, improved relationships, increased confidence, and simple tools for practical change. Therapy can be the first step toward feeling more like yourself again. You don't have to have everything figured out to begin.
From the outside, you may look like you have it all together. Inside, you may be struggling with anxiety, overthinking, burnout, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or relationship stress. I work with individuals across Texas who are feeling overwhelmed, burdened, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. I use a trauma-informed lens and strengths-based approach, to guide you towards insight, improved relationships, increased confidence, and simple tools for practical change. Therapy can be the first step toward feeling more like yourself again. You don't have to have everything figured out to begin.
(214) 740-4794 View (214) 740-4794
Photo of Denise Merlick, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Denise Merlick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Dallas, TX 75214
Recognizing the need for growth and change can feel intimidating, but taking that first step toward therapy shows courage and a willingness to invest in yourself. I create a warm, supportive space where clients can safely explore past and present experiences. Together, we work to understand patterns, emotions, and challenges that may be holding you back. I view therapy as a collaborative journey where we move at your pace while building insight, self-acceptance, and meaningful change. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Recognizing the need for growth and change can feel intimidating, but taking that first step toward therapy shows courage and a willingness to invest in yourself. I create a warm, supportive space where clients can safely explore past and present experiences. Together, we work to understand patterns, emotions, and challenges that may be holding you back. I view therapy as a collaborative journey where we move at your pace while building insight, self-acceptance, and meaningful change. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(214) 239-1875 View (214) 239-1875
Photo of Barry G Grossman, Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Barry G Grossman
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
Working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum has been my life’s work. I own a private practice that focuses on providing counseling and comprehensive evaluation of autism. I have an emphasis on working with females on the spectrum. I also write books, textbooks, journal articles, and speak internationally on improving identification and services. I provide EMDR therapy and am a Certified Therapist (EMDRIA).
Working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum has been my life’s work. I own a private practice that focuses on providing counseling and comprehensive evaluation of autism. I have an emphasis on working with females on the spectrum. I also write books, textbooks, journal articles, and speak internationally on improving identification and services. I provide EMDR therapy and am a Certified Therapist (EMDRIA).
(469) 382-1487 View (469) 382-1487
Photo of Jasmine Cantu, LPC-Associate, MS, CRC
Jasmine Cantu
LPC-Associate, MS, CRC
Dallas, TX 75208
I'm Jasmine, a dedicated therapist committed to accessibility in counseling and healthcare. My ideal clients are those who are navigating the intersections of their identity, including gender, disability, chronic illness, and trauma. Our sessions are an empowering space, where you can reflect and gain insight, find purpose, and explore change. My approach is person-centered and feminist, and I use components of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential Therapy to guide our work.
I'm Jasmine, a dedicated therapist committed to accessibility in counseling and healthcare. My ideal clients are those who are navigating the intersections of their identity, including gender, disability, chronic illness, and trauma. Our sessions are an empowering space, where you can reflect and gain insight, find purpose, and explore change. My approach is person-centered and feminist, and I use components of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential Therapy to guide our work.
(469) 517-5138 View (469) 517-5138
Photo of Tajha Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tajha Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi! Do you feel you’ve lost a sense of yourself while navigating life’s many challenges, from feeling overwhelm, struck in survival mode due to anxiety, depression and trauma, unhealthy relationship patterns, and unhealthy coping patterns. Together, we work on emotional regulation tools that truly help, healing that honors your identity, and building healthy relationships and boundaries so you can feel grounded, resilient, and self-led again. My therapy style is empathic, compassionate, and client-centered, yet direct and straightforward, always rooted in respect and dignity.
Hi! Do you feel you’ve lost a sense of yourself while navigating life’s many challenges, from feeling overwhelm, struck in survival mode due to anxiety, depression and trauma, unhealthy relationship patterns, and unhealthy coping patterns. Together, we work on emotional regulation tools that truly help, healing that honors your identity, and building healthy relationships and boundaries so you can feel grounded, resilient, and self-led again. My therapy style is empathic, compassionate, and client-centered, yet direct and straightforward, always rooted in respect and dignity.
(469) 430-2363 View (469) 430-2363
Photo of Taren Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Taren Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Online Only
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas and Florida. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, addictions of all kinds, relationships/parenting, and more. I offer a variety of modalities.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas and Florida. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, addictions of all kinds, relationships/parenting, and more. I offer a variety of modalities.
(682) 243-5140 View (682) 243-5140
Photo of Brooke West, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, RPT-S, LPC-S
Brooke West
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, RPT-S, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244
Are you suffering? Want Changes? Need help parenting? Is your child suffering from ADHD, Biploar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety? I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor. I am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor. For a decade, I have worked in the following areas: crisis counseling, inpatient psychiatric counseling, agency counseling, and private practice. My formal education has prepared me to counsel: children, adolescents, adults. I enjoy working with clients who have suffered emotional disturbances, trauma, abuse, and mental disorders. My passion is to use various techniques, activities, and modalities to best allow you to express your inner world.
Are you suffering? Want Changes? Need help parenting? Is your child suffering from ADHD, Biploar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety? I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor. I am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor. For a decade, I have worked in the following areas: crisis counseling, inpatient psychiatric counseling, agency counseling, and private practice. My formal education has prepared me to counsel: children, adolescents, adults. I enjoy working with clients who have suffered emotional disturbances, trauma, abuse, and mental disorders. My passion is to use various techniques, activities, and modalities to best allow you to express your inner world.
(214) 960-1564 View (214) 960-1564
Photo of Culle L Vande Garde - Culle L. Vande Garde, LCSW-S, CPTT-S, CSAT-S, CMAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CPTT-S, CSAT-S, CMAT, EMDR
Culle L. Vande Garde, LCSW-S, CPTT-S, CSAT-S, CMAT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CPTT-S, CSAT-S, CMAT, EMDR
Online Only
Are you carrying the hidden pain of betrayal, family trauma, or growing up in an intimacy-disordered family system? Many of my clients are betrayed partners of sex addicts, Adult Children of Sex Addicts (ACSAs), or family members such as parents and siblings impacted by compulsive sexual behavior. These wounds often show up as shame, anxiety, or depression, along with struggles in relationships, boundaries, or trust. Their deepest hope is to release the weight of the past, reclaim their self-worth, and learn to build safe, trusting, mature relationships—with themselves first, and then with others.
Are you carrying the hidden pain of betrayal, family trauma, or growing up in an intimacy-disordered family system? Many of my clients are betrayed partners of sex addicts, Adult Children of Sex Addicts (ACSAs), or family members such as parents and siblings impacted by compulsive sexual behavior. These wounds often show up as shame, anxiety, or depression, along with struggles in relationships, boundaries, or trust. Their deepest hope is to release the weight of the past, reclaim their self-worth, and learn to build safe, trusting, mature relationships—with themselves first, and then with others.
(214) 239-3188 View (214) 239-3188
Photo of Tori Davis-Henry, Counselor, LPC
Tori Davis-Henry
Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75246
You’re the one everyone counts on; driven, independent, and always moving. Slowing down feels uncomfortable. Emotions feel messy. You pride yourself on keeping it together, figuring things out on your own, and thinking your way through problems rather than feeling them. But if you are honest, there’s a part of you that’s tired of playing that role. A part that wonders why connection feels so hard, why vulnerability feels unsafe, and why, no matter how much you achieve, it never really feels like enough.
You’re the one everyone counts on; driven, independent, and always moving. Slowing down feels uncomfortable. Emotions feel messy. You pride yourself on keeping it together, figuring things out on your own, and thinking your way through problems rather than feeling them. But if you are honest, there’s a part of you that’s tired of playing that role. A part that wonders why connection feels so hard, why vulnerability feels unsafe, and why, no matter how much you achieve, it never really feels like enough.
(469) 945-7820 View (469) 945-7820
Photo of Faithe Mistretta-Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Faithe Mistretta-Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there! I am a licensed clinical social worker and board-approved clinical supervisor with 10 years of experience in mental health, crisis response, and client advocacy. I am passionate about helping those who feel unheard or misunderstood, and I strive to create a safe space for all individuals to explore themselves in a compassionate manner. I believe that Black Lives Matter, Abortion is Healthcare, and science is real. I am a sexual orientation & gender identity (SOGI) aligned therapist, am a kink and polyamory-aware professional (KAP), and promote cultural awareness, health at every size, and breaking free from stigma/shame.
Hi there! I am a licensed clinical social worker and board-approved clinical supervisor with 10 years of experience in mental health, crisis response, and client advocacy. I am passionate about helping those who feel unheard or misunderstood, and I strive to create a safe space for all individuals to explore themselves in a compassionate manner. I believe that Black Lives Matter, Abortion is Healthcare, and science is real. I am a sexual orientation & gender identity (SOGI) aligned therapist, am a kink and polyamory-aware professional (KAP), and promote cultural awareness, health at every size, and breaking free from stigma/shame.
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Photo of Andy Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ThM, LPC, LCDC
Andy Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ThM, LPC, LCDC
Dallas, TX 75218
You haven't been yourself lately and have been struggling to understand why. You have been suffering and experiencing symptoms that you know may be trying to tell you something about your life but you are struggling to put the pieces together and find a way forward. You know that there is more to life than suffering but you feel immobilized by your pain, depression, anxiety, and relational conflicts.
You haven't been yourself lately and have been struggling to understand why. You have been suffering and experiencing symptoms that you know may be trying to tell you something about your life but you are struggling to put the pieces together and find a way forward. You know that there is more to life than suffering but you feel immobilized by your pain, depression, anxiety, and relational conflicts.
(469) 277-9015 View (469) 277-9015
Photo of Dane Osborne, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dane Osborne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
People with disabilities can THRIVE even while acknowledging limitations. I am a creative and collaborative resource who can help my clients to empower themselves to find or MAKE their place in the world. Surviving is thriving in a harsh environment and together we will discern what environments are supportive to your goals. We will break down, investigate, and dissect limiting thoughts, views, and ideas together. We will explore ways to navigate things you can’t control or change by collaborating to create an individualized path leading to your future aspirations.
People with disabilities can THRIVE even while acknowledging limitations. I am a creative and collaborative resource who can help my clients to empower themselves to find or MAKE their place in the world. Surviving is thriving in a harsh environment and together we will discern what environments are supportive to your goals. We will break down, investigate, and dissect limiting thoughts, views, and ideas together. We will explore ways to navigate things you can’t control or change by collaborating to create an individualized path leading to your future aspirations.
(214) 393-5245 View (214) 393-5245
Photo of Sarah Gammage-Ramm, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, NCC, CSAT-C, CCPS-C, EMDR
Sarah Gammage-Ramm
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, NCC, CSAT-C, CCPS-C, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75209
Welcome! I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy to individuals and couples navigating a wide range of challenges. I offer a safe space for healing and growth, where clients feel valued, understood, and empowered. Harville Hendrix eloquently stated: “We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship.” This deeply resonates with me, and my approach to counseling is based on the transformative power of relationships, both with self and with others.
Welcome! I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy to individuals and couples navigating a wide range of challenges. I offer a safe space for healing and growth, where clients feel valued, understood, and empowered. Harville Hendrix eloquently stated: “We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship.” This deeply resonates with me, and my approach to counseling is based on the transformative power of relationships, both with self and with others.
(469) 402-4409 x6 View (469) 402-4409 x6
Photo of Susan S Schlehuber, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Susan S Schlehuber
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
The most difficult part of counseling is the first step - reaching out and you have accomplished it today. Awesome job! We will work hard together, so that you can experience positive change and growth in your life. We will set goals collaboratively and revisit your them often, changing and adjusting them when needed. Email or text me today and we will begin your journey.
The most difficult part of counseling is the first step - reaching out and you have accomplished it today. Awesome job! We will work hard together, so that you can experience positive change and growth in your life. We will set goals collaboratively and revisit your them often, changing and adjusting them when needed. Email or text me today and we will begin your journey.
(214) 367-6096 View (214) 367-6096
Photo of Jesse Urbina, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Jesse Urbina
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Dallas, TX 75206
Jesse Urbina is a Licensed Professional Counselor–Associate at Dallas Therapy Associates. He works with clients seeking to better understand themselves and create meaningful change in their lives. Jesse is passionate about supporting individuals in the Hispanic and Latino community who may be navigating cultural identity, family expectations, or major life transitions. His clients often come to therapy wanting a space to explore how past experiences influence their current thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
Jesse Urbina is a Licensed Professional Counselor–Associate at Dallas Therapy Associates. He works with clients seeking to better understand themselves and create meaningful change in their lives. Jesse is passionate about supporting individuals in the Hispanic and Latino community who may be navigating cultural identity, family expectations, or major life transitions. His clients often come to therapy wanting a space to explore how past experiences influence their current thoughts, emotions, and relationships.
(469) 517-8680 View (469) 517-8680
Photo of Rebekah Poynor, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Rebekah Poynor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
My clients would describe me as compassionate, creative, and understanding. For therapy to work, it’s important the client truly trusts the process. My clients and I form genuine relationships and respect for each other, which yields really great results. I take a holistic, trauma informed approach in my work. I enjoy using the creative process alongside clients as they create fulfilling lives. I strongly believe that clients have the answers to their own healing.
My clients would describe me as compassionate, creative, and understanding. For therapy to work, it’s important the client truly trusts the process. My clients and I form genuine relationships and respect for each other, which yields really great results. I take a holistic, trauma informed approach in my work. I enjoy using the creative process alongside clients as they create fulfilling lives. I strongly believe that clients have the answers to their own healing.
(214) 239-4374 View (214) 239-4374
Photo of Annielle Timmons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Annielle Timmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or impacted by past experiences, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Hi, I’m Annielle (Ann-yell), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an EMDR Therapist who helps individuals and couples heal from trauma, manage anxiety, and build healthier relationships. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and relationship counseling, supporting clients as they process childhood wounds, PTSD symptoms, attachment patterns, and self-esteem challenges. My approach blends warmth, empathy, and clear strategy to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and emotional safety.
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or impacted by past experiences, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Hi, I’m Annielle (Ann-yell), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an EMDR Therapist who helps individuals and couples heal from trauma, manage anxiety, and build healthier relationships. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and relationship counseling, supporting clients as they process childhood wounds, PTSD symptoms, attachment patterns, and self-esteem challenges. My approach blends warmth, empathy, and clear strategy to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and emotional safety.
(469) 300-5378 View (469) 300-5378
Photo of Zakia Inyang, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Zakia Inyang
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
I am deeply passionate about equipping singles and couples with the skills to intentionally pursue and sustain healthy, successful relationships. While I specialize in working with couples and young adults, I am equipped to serve clients of all ages. As an EMDR trained therapist, my goal is to help individuals and couples discover and strengthen the personal and relational foundations that lead to greater fulfillment, connection, & self awareness. My approach empowers clients to become active participants in their own healing.
I am deeply passionate about equipping singles and couples with the skills to intentionally pursue and sustain healthy, successful relationships. While I specialize in working with couples and young adults, I am equipped to serve clients of all ages. As an EMDR trained therapist, my goal is to help individuals and couples discover and strengthen the personal and relational foundations that lead to greater fulfillment, connection, & self awareness. My approach empowers clients to become active participants in their own healing.
(214) 256-1385 View (214) 256-1385
Photo of Dr. Rachael Cash - Gate Well Counseling, Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Gate Well Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Dallas, TX 75225
You may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or hurt beyond anything you have ever felt before. It is so difficult when you feel boxed in and alone, but there is a power that God has placed within your heart. We will help you access an understanding of that power and reach the absolute freedom that God desires for you.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or hurt beyond anything you have ever felt before. It is so difficult when you feel boxed in and alone, but there is a power that God has placed within your heart. We will help you access an understanding of that power and reach the absolute freedom that God desires for you.
(469) 715-4349 View (469) 715-4349

See more therapy options for Dallas

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dallas, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$149

Therapists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
92% Social Anxiety
92% Health Anxiety
92% Driving Anxiety
86% Depression
73% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Dallas, TX see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dallas?

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.