Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI
April M Oglesby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Life is a gift best shared and celebrated with those we love, yet there are times in our lives when we not only do not feel like being around others but also do not feel like celebrating anything at all. Let's work through the challenges that keep you from being your best self and living your best life. We have one life on this planet, why not live it to the fullest in every possible way through our relationships with ourselves and with others? Let's work together so that you can get to a place of healing and restoration; to not just heal, but to grow and THRIVE in every aspect of your life!!!
Life is a gift best shared and celebrated with those we love, yet there are times in our lives when we not only do not feel like being around others but also do not feel like celebrating anything at all. Let's work through the challenges that keep you from being your best self and living your best life. We have one life on this planet, why not live it to the fullest in every possible way through our relationships with ourselves and with others? Let's work together so that you can get to a place of healing and restoration; to not just heal, but to grow and THRIVE in every aspect of your life!!!
Hannah Borman
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Are you weary of feeling consistently 'stuck' in the fast lane, wondering if your body and mind can remember what it is like to slow down and rest? Or maybe you're feeling shut down and it takes effort to do the bare minimum? Struggling to feel connection in your close relationships, or wondering how to move forward in a partnership or marriage that feels stagnant? I value the opportunity to create an environment where you can breathe, connect with safety in mind and body, and engage in a therapeutic relationship as you journey toward greater self-discovery and freedom.
Are you weary of feeling consistently 'stuck' in the fast lane, wondering if your body and mind can remember what it is like to slow down and rest? Or maybe you're feeling shut down and it takes effort to do the bare minimum? Struggling to feel connection in your close relationships, or wondering how to move forward in a partnership or marriage that feels stagnant? I value the opportunity to create an environment where you can breathe, connect with safety in mind and body, and engage in a therapeutic relationship as you journey toward greater self-discovery and freedom.
Katie Bozek
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I believe people are relational-beings, meaning, we develop and live our lives in relationships with others. When these relationships become distressed, it can lead to a multitude of feelings, such as depression, stress, anxiety and an overall feeling of uneasiness. These are the times when a person may need some guidance and help accessing their personal resources to find more balance in those relationships and in life in general.
I believe people are relational-beings, meaning, we develop and live our lives in relationships with others. When these relationships become distressed, it can lead to a multitude of feelings, such as depression, stress, anxiety and an overall feeling of uneasiness. These are the times when a person may need some guidance and help accessing their personal resources to find more balance in those relationships and in life in general.
Sollars and Associates
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
Morgan Louise Nieto
Counselor, MA , LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming, nerve-racking process. Seeking help is not always easy; clients may feel like they have the weight of the world on their shoulders and are unsure how to cope or continue moving onward. It’s important for clients to find the right fit for them and their journey.
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming, nerve-racking process. Seeking help is not always easy; clients may feel like they have the weight of the world on their shoulders and are unsure how to cope or continue moving onward. It’s important for clients to find the right fit for them and their journey.
Andrew Kossek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Online Only)
I am neurodivergent and I have helped neurodivergent children, teens, and adults in a variety of settings for over ten years. I have a long history of working with other neurodivergent individuals to develop the tools that they need to thrive in a world that does not always accept them. I utilize evidence-based talk therapies as well as CBT and mindfulness practices to help clients develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed. I specialize in working with and advocating for children and adults dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, and disability-related issues. I can help Autistic men find ways to connect
I am neurodivergent and I have helped neurodivergent children, teens, and adults in a variety of settings for over ten years. I have a long history of working with other neurodivergent individuals to develop the tools that they need to thrive in a world that does not always accept them. I utilize evidence-based talk therapies as well as CBT and mindfulness practices to help clients develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed. I specialize in working with and advocating for children and adults dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, and disability-related issues. I can help Autistic men find ways to connect
Ben Balke
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck and unsure what to do next? I specialize in helping pre-teen (12) to adults with tough situations such as depression, anxiety, overwhelming stress, relationship concerns, and school/ work issues. Through the counseling process, clients can become aware of what is occurring in their lives and understand the underlying feelings that they are experiencing. I always want my clients to have input in their counseling process. This input creates an open and safe environment where clients can be most successful.
Are you feeling stuck and unsure what to do next? I specialize in helping pre-teen (12) to adults with tough situations such as depression, anxiety, overwhelming stress, relationship concerns, and school/ work issues. Through the counseling process, clients can become aware of what is occurring in their lives and understand the underlying feelings that they are experiencing. I always want my clients to have input in their counseling process. This input creates an open and safe environment where clients can be most successful.
Sophia Dykstra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? Kids having issues? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want actionable steps and to get moving. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, family, and teen counseling in Michigan and Florida, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
Tired of just coping with family problems? Marriage heading in a bad direction? Kids having issues? You don't want to wait around, hoping things will get better. You want actionable steps and to get moving. You want to find healing and wholeness. Don't want to pack up all the kids? We offer therapy in your home. For more information on couples, family, and teen counseling in Michigan and Florida, visit Family-Wholeness.com.
Dan Slane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I interlace myriad strategies for assuaging complex trauma, increasing vulnerability, improving emotional and physical intimacy, strengthening relationships, and decreasing the disconnecting symptoms of anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, specifically Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
I interlace myriad strategies for assuaging complex trauma, increasing vulnerability, improving emotional and physical intimacy, strengthening relationships, and decreasing the disconnecting symptoms of anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, specifically Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
Lauren Amlalo
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
With my own life experiences I have learned that having support can be the difference between a dark path and a bright one. I have learned that to the core people really just need support and guidance when they reach difficult times in their lives. Life is not meant to be a solo journey, it is meant to be full of connections that help elevate you to become the best possible version of yourself. I can help you along your journey as you face things such as depression, anxiety, pregnancy, postpartum depression, parenting, grief, and trauma as well as other life experiences that can hinder you along the way.
With my own life experiences I have learned that having support can be the difference between a dark path and a bright one. I have learned that to the core people really just need support and guidance when they reach difficult times in their lives. Life is not meant to be a solo journey, it is meant to be full of connections that help elevate you to become the best possible version of yourself. I can help you along your journey as you face things such as depression, anxiety, pregnancy, postpartum depression, parenting, grief, and trauma as well as other life experiences that can hinder you along the way.
Kim Bartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
It takes courage to go to a counselor for help. Whether you are struggling with an on-going issue, or just going through a rough time in life, whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment to a new situation, grief/loss, mood issues, or something else, working with a counselor will help. The good news is that because you are willing to reach out for a helping hand, you already have a good start on what it takes to achieve the change you are looking to make! You have awareness and willingness; 2 ingredients for success!
It takes courage to go to a counselor for help. Whether you are struggling with an on-going issue, or just going through a rough time in life, whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment to a new situation, grief/loss, mood issues, or something else, working with a counselor will help. The good news is that because you are willing to reach out for a helping hand, you already have a good start on what it takes to achieve the change you are looking to make! You have awareness and willingness; 2 ingredients for success!
15 Second Videos
Sophia Dykstra
Alexander T. Thompson
Kristi Paguio Consulting, LLC
Kate Smaller
Whitney Mae Pennington
Jamie LaFontsee
Megan Flier
Michael Hazeltine
Janice Twesten
Sarah Rhein
Amanda Haveman
Patty Wagenhofer
Darion L Oberle
Alex Brito Counseling LLC
Jessica Springstead
Erika Crenshaw
Carli Watson
Alex T Thompson
NOCD- Therapists for OCD
Telebehavioral Health.US
Tyler Hobbs
Kelsey Enriquez
NOCD- Therapists for OCD
Eric Fullen
Steven Shane Edelman
Amanda Bernés
Kerrie Clark
Hailey Yatros
Jacinta Glashower
Tracy Norcross Tyson
Phil Koole
Emily Warning
Alyssa Smith
NOCD- Therapists for OCD
Becky Lovell Turner
Katelyn Britenriker
Amanda Hartwig
Restore Therapy Collective
Samantha Rose Dehring
Analise Osgood
Keegan Ferris
Maggie Maurer
Rachel Dziabuda
Jenae Hershberger
Danielle Drumm
Crystal Feyen
Catherine A VanDeWege
Erin Cullum
Gary Watson
Desiree Davis
Natalie Blauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
Kim K Janis
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I've had the opportunity to counsel individuals struggling with anxiety and depression as well as behavioral concerns. The goal of therapy is to provide my client with what they're needing most, a reduction in anxious symptoms for example while collaborating on how they might function in society without barriers. I also complete comprehensive psychological evaluations for concerns with anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and Autism. Although each client is different and their needs unique, each assessment's goal is to help answer the presenting question.
I've had the opportunity to counsel individuals struggling with anxiety and depression as well as behavioral concerns. The goal of therapy is to provide my client with what they're needing most, a reduction in anxious symptoms for example while collaborating on how they might function in society without barriers. I also complete comprehensive psychological evaluations for concerns with anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and Autism. Although each client is different and their needs unique, each assessment's goal is to help answer the presenting question.
Richard Raubolt
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Psychotherapy and counseling are most effective and long lasting when provided with compassion, understanding and hope. I believe in these values strongly. Talking about your doubts, worries and fears with a stranger can be daunting at first. When you are offered an open, responsive dialogue that is nonjudgemental, accepting and respectful this initial discomfort is replaced by a sense of emotional freedom rarely experienced before.Self acceptance and resiliency emerge and grow so that life challenges that before seemed so inhibiting are now met with confidence. I have been honored to witness and participate in these hard work miracles for over 35 years.
Psychotherapy and counseling are most effective and long lasting when provided with compassion, understanding and hope. I believe in these values strongly. Talking about your doubts, worries and fears with a stranger can be daunting at first. When you are offered an open, responsive dialogue that is nonjudgemental, accepting and respectful this initial discomfort is replaced by a sense of emotional freedom rarely experienced before.Self acceptance and resiliency emerge and grow so that life challenges that before seemed so inhibiting are now met with confidence. I have been honored to witness and participate in these hard work miracles for over 35 years.
Benjamin Reisterer
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you're grieving a loss, feeling hopeless, wrestling with the effects of traumatic experiences, frozen by anxiety, or boxed in by shame. If this resonates with you, please know that you are not alone. Unraveling your story in the context of a therapeutic relationship can often be the experience needed to move forward. Being met right where you are by a safe, curious, and experienced therapist can restore hope, cultivate insight, heal wounds, build positive momentum, and lead to lasting transformation.
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you're grieving a loss, feeling hopeless, wrestling with the effects of traumatic experiences, frozen by anxiety, or boxed in by shame. If this resonates with you, please know that you are not alone. Unraveling your story in the context of a therapeutic relationship can often be the experience needed to move forward. Being met right where you are by a safe, curious, and experienced therapist can restore hope, cultivate insight, heal wounds, build positive momentum, and lead to lasting transformation.
Lehanna Hardy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Lehanna Hardy is a Licensed Master Social Worker who specializes in anxiety, ADHD, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, and PTSD. She is a trauma-informed clinician who brings an integrative approach to her work with clients and believes in connecting with people through empathy and compassion. Lehanna is also passionate about her work with Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids where she facilitates support groups for those impacted by cancer or grief. She feels it’s an honor to walk beside people on their cancer and grief journeys and be a part of the Gilda community.
Lehanna Hardy is a Licensed Master Social Worker who specializes in anxiety, ADHD, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, and PTSD. She is a trauma-informed clinician who brings an integrative approach to her work with clients and believes in connecting with people through empathy and compassion. Lehanna is also passionate about her work with Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids where she facilitates support groups for those impacted by cancer or grief. She feels it’s an honor to walk beside people on their cancer and grief journeys and be a part of the Gilda community.
Mariah Root
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Not accepting new clients
Beginning therapy and sharing your most intimate struggles can be overwhelming. With this in mind, I create a space that is non-judgmental where we can explore what is no longer serving you. The change you desire is possible. I work with adults who are experiencing relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety or depression or low self worth.
Beginning therapy and sharing your most intimate struggles can be overwhelming. With this in mind, I create a space that is non-judgmental where we can explore what is no longer serving you. The change you desire is possible. I work with adults who are experiencing relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety or depression or low self worth.
Carolyn Sutherby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Waitlist for new clients
Carolyn has been working with children and families for over 25 years. She specializes in treating children and families and provides parenting support for caregivers with children/adolescents who have behavioral health concerns and conducts individual and family therapy. Carolyn also has expertise with Highly Sensitive People (HSP), including children (HSC). This is a normal biological trait in personality and physiology inherited by about 20% of the population. HSP's have sensitive nervous systems and feel things deeply, notice more in their environment and are easily overstimulated by sensory input in their environment.
Carolyn has been working with children and families for over 25 years. She specializes in treating children and families and provides parenting support for caregivers with children/adolescents who have behavioral health concerns and conducts individual and family therapy. Carolyn also has expertise with Highly Sensitive People (HSP), including children (HSC). This is a normal biological trait in personality and physiology inherited by about 20% of the population. HSP's have sensitive nervous systems and feel things deeply, notice more in their environment and are easily overstimulated by sensory input in their environment.
Finn Asterión (Marcks)
LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Finn Marcks (he/they) is a queer, trans, nonbinary therapist who believes in providing a safe, affirming, healing environment for people who are hurting. Finn’s main passion is working with LGBTQIA+ clients, and making gender-affirming care more accessible. Finn believes therapy is about the relationship between therapist and client, founded on trust and connection. Finn’s therapeutic lens is shaped by both his lived experiences and his work in LGBTQIA+ education and advocacy, as well as youth residential mental health and community mental health.
Finn Marcks (he/they) is a queer, trans, nonbinary therapist who believes in providing a safe, affirming, healing environment for people who are hurting. Finn’s main passion is working with LGBTQIA+ clients, and making gender-affirming care more accessible. Finn believes therapy is about the relationship between therapist and client, founded on trust and connection. Finn’s therapeutic lens is shaped by both his lived experiences and his work in LGBTQIA+ education and advocacy, as well as youth residential mental health and community mental health.
Axel Francisco Hettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Axel Hettinger (he/him) specializes in client-focused therapeutic techniques. His work incorporates the arts and any special interests clients may have. Axel is a queer therapist who strives to create a welcoming, affirming and warm environment for all clients, and specifically works with LGBTQIA+ clients seeking gender-affirming care. For several years he’s worked with adolescents as a counselor, mentor, and community organizer. Axel is a regular collaborator and facilitator with the Grand Rapids Pride Center and speaks at Universities and schools to promote cultural understanding of underserved communities.
Axel Hettinger (he/him) specializes in client-focused therapeutic techniques. His work incorporates the arts and any special interests clients may have. Axel is a queer therapist who strives to create a welcoming, affirming and warm environment for all clients, and specifically works with LGBTQIA+ clients seeking gender-affirming care. For several years he’s worked with adolescents as a counselor, mentor, and community organizer. Axel is a regular collaborator and facilitator with the Grand Rapids Pride Center and speaks at Universities and schools to promote cultural understanding of underserved communities.
See more therapy options for Grand Rapids
Nearby Searches for Grand Rapids
- Ada
- Belmont
- Byron Center
- Caledonia
- Cascade
- Comstock Park
- East Grand Rapids
- Grandville
- Jenison
- Kentwood
- Walker
- Wyoming
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI
1,000+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
77% | Self Esteem |
76% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Coping Skills |
70% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
69% | Priority Health |
63% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Grand Rapids?
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
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.
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.
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.