Therapists in San Antonio, TX

View neighborhoods in San Antonio
Photo of Madhu Karnad, MA,  LPC, Counselor
Madhu Karnad
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
Everyone’s story matters! Have you experienced fear or sadness at the worst possible moments? Beyond fear, depression, and hopelessness is freedom! Through collaborative client-centered therapy focusing on excellent care, I can help you make lasting changes by overcoming anxiety, alleviating depression, elevating your self esteem and changing behavior patterns to enhance the quality of your life. My goal is to empower clients to grow, heal, and thrive.
Everyone’s story matters! Have you experienced fear or sadness at the worst possible moments? Beyond fear, depression, and hopelessness is freedom! Through collaborative client-centered therapy focusing on excellent care, I can help you make lasting changes by overcoming anxiety, alleviating depression, elevating your self esteem and changing behavior patterns to enhance the quality of your life. My goal is to empower clients to grow, heal, and thrive.
(210) 791-8079 View (210) 791-8079
Photo of Claudia I Castaneda - SPA, LLC - Supportive Psychological Associates , MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
SPA, LLC - Supportive Psychological Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
We believe in a therapeutic process that revolves around life's changes and the journeys it takes us on. Choosing to change your focus is a powerful way of transforming any situation. Focusing on the positive doesn't mean that we are denying reality or avoiding what isn't working. It simply allows us to work from a grounded place in order to make the most informed decision from a less emotional place of clarity. Within our sessions, the goal is to cultivate a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship where an individual can bring their full self into session without any fear.
We believe in a therapeutic process that revolves around life's changes and the journeys it takes us on. Choosing to change your focus is a powerful way of transforming any situation. Focusing on the positive doesn't mean that we are denying reality or avoiding what isn't working. It simply allows us to work from a grounded place in order to make the most informed decision from a less emotional place of clarity. Within our sessions, the goal is to cultivate a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship where an individual can bring their full self into session without any fear.
(210) 934-9262 View (210) 934-9262
Photo of Tracy Mazloum - Tracy Mazloum , MS, NCC, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Mazloum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
My areas of focus are family of origin issues, dissociative disorders, and complex PTSD. I help clients “update” or transform their own relationship to their need for connection to themselves and others.
My areas of focus are family of origin issues, dissociative disorders, and complex PTSD. I help clients “update” or transform their own relationship to their need for connection to themselves and others.
(210) 985-3478 View (210) 985-3478
Photo of Tawanna Hudson, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tawanna Hudson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78261  (Online Only)
Welcome to Beyond the Root Counseling and Consulting, PLLC! My name is Tawanna Hudson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping women achieve emotional wellness and personal growth. My goal is to partner with you to provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore and relearn effective coping skills and discover more of your inner strengths. This means providing support that considers the whole person, not just your mental health needs but your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, ensuring comprehensive care for your overall health.
Welcome to Beyond the Root Counseling and Consulting, PLLC! My name is Tawanna Hudson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping women achieve emotional wellness and personal growth. My goal is to partner with you to provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore and relearn effective coping skills and discover more of your inner strengths. This means providing support that considers the whole person, not just your mental health needs but your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, ensuring comprehensive care for your overall health.
(210) 934-0024 View (210) 934-0024
Photo of Randa Chance, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Randa Chance
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
I am licensed to practice in Texas (LPC & LMFT), Oklahoma (LPC) and Wisconsin (LPC). I have served with my husband for the past 20 years in various pastoral roles and am heavily involved with the San Antonio community. I specialize in helping individuals, couples and families (including clergy couples and families) to facilitate healing and provide a safe place for processing through trauma, relational challenges & infidelity, life changes, self-image, behavioral issues, spirituality, anxiety, depression, grief and loss. Because each client has specific needs, treatment is customized for each individual client.
I am licensed to practice in Texas (LPC & LMFT), Oklahoma (LPC) and Wisconsin (LPC). I have served with my husband for the past 20 years in various pastoral roles and am heavily involved with the San Antonio community. I specialize in helping individuals, couples and families (including clergy couples and families) to facilitate healing and provide a safe place for processing through trauma, relational challenges & infidelity, life changes, self-image, behavioral issues, spirituality, anxiety, depression, grief and loss. Because each client has specific needs, treatment is customized for each individual client.
(210) 791-0731 View (210) 791-0731
Photo of Edith (Edie) Blake, MS, LSSP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edith (Edie) Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LSSP, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
Living life is a journey that is sometimes wonderful and other times very difficult. By walking with you on your journey, helping you through these times when the way is tough, so here to support and empower you on your journey. you do not have to face it alone. I'd like to help you! I have worked in a variety of settings helping individuals, and families experience emotional healing. I have assisted those struggling with a wide range of mood disorders, including trauma, anxiety, stress, depression relationship problems, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD.
Living life is a journey that is sometimes wonderful and other times very difficult. By walking with you on your journey, helping you through these times when the way is tough, so here to support and empower you on your journey. you do not have to face it alone. I'd like to help you! I have worked in a variety of settings helping individuals, and families experience emotional healing. I have assisted those struggling with a wide range of mood disorders, including trauma, anxiety, stress, depression relationship problems, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD.
(210) 361-8041 View (210) 361-8041
Photo of Kathy Joe, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Joe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
I am a counselor that realizes that we all have challenges in one's life journey. I can guide you through those life obstacles. I take a holistic approach to life wellness counseling, and I foster that each person is an individual with their own life perspectives. I can help you uncover and explore options within your social context and develop the potential inside you. I believe in providing a supportive, motivating environment to enable you to learn and discover how to enhance your personal view of happiness and life's purpose.
I am a counselor that realizes that we all have challenges in one's life journey. I can guide you through those life obstacles. I take a holistic approach to life wellness counseling, and I foster that each person is an individual with their own life perspectives. I can help you uncover and explore options within your social context and develop the potential inside you. I believe in providing a supportive, motivating environment to enable you to learn and discover how to enhance your personal view of happiness and life's purpose.
(210) 762-6248 View (210) 762-6248
Photo of Marchele Lott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marchele Lott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
You’re the strong one. The one everyone comes to for help. The one family, friends, and coworkers rely on. But what if the strong one, the loyal one, the one everyone looks to "fix it," needs support too? What if you could flow through your days without the mental pressure of the “have to” or the guilt of not feeling you’re doing enough? What if you could honor your mental and emotional capacity while setting and maintaining healthy boundaries with yourself and others? What if I told you this was possible?
You’re the strong one. The one everyone comes to for help. The one family, friends, and coworkers rely on. But what if the strong one, the loyal one, the one everyone looks to "fix it," needs support too? What if you could flow through your days without the mental pressure of the “have to” or the guilt of not feeling you’re doing enough? What if you could honor your mental and emotional capacity while setting and maintaining healthy boundaries with yourself and others? What if I told you this was possible?
(726) 227-3424 View (726) 227-3424
Photo of Viola A Smith, M Ed, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Viola A Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240  (Online Only)
Difficult life experiences, and challenging trials, can in fact triumphantly shape us into stronger, successful individuals. I have a tremendous passion for life and assisting others to reach their greatest potential. I employ various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, in order to focus on patterns of behavior and ways in which we define ourselves. We will look within the context of relationships with Self and others. I would love to support you with your personal growth goals. Schedule a visit with me by clicking on my website.
Difficult life experiences, and challenging trials, can in fact triumphantly shape us into stronger, successful individuals. I have a tremendous passion for life and assisting others to reach their greatest potential. I employ various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, in order to focus on patterns of behavior and ways in which we define ourselves. We will look within the context of relationships with Self and others. I would love to support you with your personal growth goals. Schedule a visit with me by clicking on my website.
(726) 227-4560 View (726) 227-4560
Photo of Kevin Pernicano - Pernicano Professional Psychology PLLC, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Pernicano Professional Psychology PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
I bring to my clients over 40 years of clinical experience, working with Veterans as the retired Chief of Mental Health at the VA in Lexington, KY and in as a clinician in other military and private practice settings. I am Board Certified in Counseling Psychology (ABPP). I am a generalist and use cognitive, behavioral and neurobiological approaches to treat a wide range of problems from anxiety, depression and trauma to couples’ and family issues. I look forward to getting down to the hard work of helping you to overcome whatever personal adversity you may have.
I bring to my clients over 40 years of clinical experience, working with Veterans as the retired Chief of Mental Health at the VA in Lexington, KY and in as a clinician in other military and private practice settings. I am Board Certified in Counseling Psychology (ABPP). I am a generalist and use cognitive, behavioral and neurobiological approaches to treat a wide range of problems from anxiety, depression and trauma to couples’ and family issues. I look forward to getting down to the hard work of helping you to overcome whatever personal adversity you may have.
(210) 405-0882 View (210) 405-0882
Photo of Gloria Mendez - Ellie Mental Health - San Antonio, LPC-S, CGP, CCTP-II
Ellie Mental Health - San Antonio
LPC-S, CGP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Making the decision to go to therapy is hard enough. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable talking with about all the things in life that brought you to the office shouldn't be so hard. At Ellie Mental Health-San Antonio we understand these struggles. Do you know why? We know because therapists are just like everybody else. Being a therapist doesn't give us a "free pass" from all the struggles that can occur in life. That being said, we have the compassion, authenticity, and a sprinkle of humor to sit with you along your journey. No matter how big or small the situations, we have a therapist that will be your "Ellie Match" in your journey.
Making the decision to go to therapy is hard enough. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable talking with about all the things in life that brought you to the office shouldn't be so hard. At Ellie Mental Health-San Antonio we understand these struggles. Do you know why? We know because therapists are just like everybody else. Being a therapist doesn't give us a "free pass" from all the struggles that can occur in life. That being said, we have the compassion, authenticity, and a sprinkle of humor to sit with you along your journey. No matter how big or small the situations, we have a therapist that will be your "Ellie Match" in your journey.
(210) 981-3428 View (210) 981-3428
Photo of Shakiya Gadson, MS
Shakiya Gadson
MS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78255
I am solution-based coach. My clients are finding their voices, establish safe boundaries, effectively communicating their wants and desires, while learning to read and handle situations or relationships impacted by shame, guilty, trauma, religious/ social conflicts, health restrictions, aging, confusion, misinformation, and mental health hurdles. Seeing beyond the mask is my “Super Power”. It helps people to feel seen, safe and supported.
I am solution-based coach. My clients are finding their voices, establish safe boundaries, effectively communicating their wants and desires, while learning to read and handle situations or relationships impacted by shame, guilty, trauma, religious/ social conflicts, health restrictions, aging, confusion, misinformation, and mental health hurdles. Seeing beyond the mask is my “Super Power”. It helps people to feel seen, safe and supported.
(210) 796-6645 View (210) 796-6645
Photo of José Gerardo Alvarado, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
José Gerardo Alvarado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
You might be struggling to seek help because of feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and uncertainty about your direction in life. You may be overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, making it difficult for you to take the first step toward seeking support. While you may feel a deeply unfulfilled yearning for purpose and connection you don't know how to achieve it. Your goals might include developing coping strategies, enhancing self-confidence, and fostering meaningful relationships, all while navigating the complexities of your emotions and life circumstances.
You might be struggling to seek help because of feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and uncertainty about your direction in life. You may be overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, making it difficult for you to take the first step toward seeking support. While you may feel a deeply unfulfilled yearning for purpose and connection you don't know how to achieve it. Your goals might include developing coping strategies, enhancing self-confidence, and fostering meaningful relationships, all while navigating the complexities of your emotions and life circumstances.
(726) 224-4254 View (726) 224-4254
Photo of Marcia Nelson-Cedillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcia Nelson-Cedillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor (LCSW-S) with extensive experience and a deep passion for helping individuals becoming the best version of themselves. With almost 10 years of service in both clinical settings and private practice, I bring a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy. I believe in the power of a supportive therapeutic relationship. My approach is comprehensive, combining evidence-based practices with Christian principles to meet each client's unique needs.
Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor (LCSW-S) with extensive experience and a deep passion for helping individuals becoming the best version of themselves. With almost 10 years of service in both clinical settings and private practice, I bring a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy. I believe in the power of a supportive therapeutic relationship. My approach is comprehensive, combining evidence-based practices with Christian principles to meet each client's unique needs.
(726) 223-7137 View (726) 223-7137
Photo of Suzanne Kocher, MA, LPC-S, CPHQ, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanne Kocher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CPHQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209
Life can be overwhelming and we all need a little support sometimes. Work, family, relationships….it can be a lot to handle alone. Having a safe and supportive person to talk to can help ease the burden and assist in gaining a new perspective when there seems to be no way out. It takes a lot of courage to take that first step to seek help, so you can take pride in the fact that you are here now.
Life can be overwhelming and we all need a little support sometimes. Work, family, relationships….it can be a lot to handle alone. Having a safe and supportive person to talk to can help ease the burden and assist in gaining a new perspective when there seems to be no way out. It takes a lot of courage to take that first step to seek help, so you can take pride in the fact that you are here now.
(210) 741-9554 View (210) 741-9554
Photo of Rebecca Olivares, LCSW, CIMHP
Rebecca Olivares
LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
Life in today's world is hard, but I can help make it better! You have already taken the first steps. Go you! I believe that therapy should not be boring or a one-sided conversation. Therapy is a team effort between you and me to help you or your family member feel their very best. Whether it is through play therapy or talking about the stressors of the week while you explore my virtual activity room, I would like to help you see and experience the changes you are looking for as you enjoy the journey along the way.
Life in today's world is hard, but I can help make it better! You have already taken the first steps. Go you! I believe that therapy should not be boring or a one-sided conversation. Therapy is a team effort between you and me to help you or your family member feel their very best. Whether it is through play therapy or talking about the stressors of the week while you explore my virtual activity room, I would like to help you see and experience the changes you are looking for as you enjoy the journey along the way.
(830) 500-5651 View (830) 500-5651
Photo of Tatiana Rojas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tatiana Rojas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
With my training and experience I have found that the best work is done collaboratively with clients in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Sessions with me may include exploring values, reviewing core beliefs, increasing stress management techniques, and exploring positive communication skills. We’ll also explore expectations in relationships, attachment styles, and various coping skills. My goal for all my clients is to learn better ways to cope so that they can live a more well-balanced life mentally and emotionally.
With my training and experience I have found that the best work is done collaboratively with clients in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Sessions with me may include exploring values, reviewing core beliefs, increasing stress management techniques, and exploring positive communication skills. We’ll also explore expectations in relationships, attachment styles, and various coping skills. My goal for all my clients is to learn better ways to cope so that they can live a more well-balanced life mentally and emotionally.
(737) 520-4471 View (737) 520-4471
Photo of Mengisteab Eyehalik, LCSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mengisteab Eyehalik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78233  (Online Only)
Welcome, I’m Mengisteab! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands and expectations, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, low self-worth, relationship issues, or major life changes. But you don’t have to suffer in silence. I’m here to offer you compassionate and evidence-based support to help you heal and grow. You deserve a safe space where you can express yourself freely and be heard without judgment. In our sessions, I’ll listen attentively, respect your pace, and provide feedback and guidance along the way.
Welcome, I’m Mengisteab! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands and expectations, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, low self-worth, relationship issues, or major life changes. But you don’t have to suffer in silence. I’m here to offer you compassionate and evidence-based support to help you heal and grow. You deserve a safe space where you can express yourself freely and be heard without judgment. In our sessions, I’ll listen attentively, respect your pace, and provide feedback and guidance along the way.
(210) 794-8374 View (210) 794-8374
Photo of Tracy L Kitchen, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy L Kitchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Do you feel stuck in the same unhealthy patterns and want more for your life? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed by the memories of a traumatic past? I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma recovery with an emphasis on adult survivors of abuse. We will work collaboratively to develop a plan that fits your needs, whether you are looking for short-term, goal-directed therapy, or long-term therapeutic support.
Do you feel stuck in the same unhealthy patterns and want more for your life? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed by the memories of a traumatic past? I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma recovery with an emphasis on adult survivors of abuse. We will work collaboratively to develop a plan that fits your needs, whether you are looking for short-term, goal-directed therapy, or long-term therapeutic support.
(210) 361-7450 View (210) 361-7450
Photo of John Amundson, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Amundson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78240
Some people may feel they need therapy, others may feel they simply want it. There are a variety of reasons to use therapy, but if you are experiencing any of the following, please reach out to me for a FREE consultation: relationship issues with dad, relationship issues with son, relationship issues with significant other, detachment from emotions, difficulty communicating to your partner, bottling up/blowing up, lack of confidence, lack of assertiveness, grief/loss, a breakup, parenting issues, or career issues.
Some people may feel they need therapy, others may feel they simply want it. There are a variety of reasons to use therapy, but if you are experiencing any of the following, please reach out to me for a FREE consultation: relationship issues with dad, relationship issues with son, relationship issues with significant other, detachment from emotions, difficulty communicating to your partner, bottling up/blowing up, lack of confidence, lack of assertiveness, grief/loss, a breakup, parenting issues, or career issues.
(512) 855-6730 View (512) 855-6730
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Antonio, TX

2,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in San Antonio, TX who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
78% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Antonio, TX see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in San Antonio?

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.