Therapists in Chesapeake, VA

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Photo of Angelica Phillips, Pre-Licensed Professional, R-LPC
Angelica Phillips
Pre-Licensed Professional, R-LPC
Online Only
Hello! My therapy journey has been challenging for a great reason. I personally have been motivated to work in this field because I genuinely care to help the community and assist clients with the guidance I have become knowledgeable about. I continue learning new areas for each specific client and will utilize that in each session. I enjoy my career very much and continue to widen my horizon to each specific need.
Hello! My therapy journey has been challenging for a great reason. I personally have been motivated to work in this field because I genuinely care to help the community and assist clients with the guidance I have become knowledgeable about. I continue learning new areas for each specific client and will utilize that in each session. I enjoy my career very much and continue to widen my horizon to each specific need.
(757) 742-7710 View (757) 742-7710
Photo of Kensey Lyons, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kensey Lyons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life happens in seasons...or chapters. Do you find yourself in the midst of a difficult season? Or, perhaps, at the beginning of an uncertain and frightening chapter? Having someone to walk alongside you while you find your way and discover parts of yourself or even re-discover a self that has been neglected can be exactly what you need to chart a new course. Whether working through challenges in your relationship, dealing with the effects of childhood trauma, wrestling with identity issues, navigating workplace stress, coping with grief and loss, or whatever this chapter has you facing - I'm here to help! Let's talk soon!
Life happens in seasons...or chapters. Do you find yourself in the midst of a difficult season? Or, perhaps, at the beginning of an uncertain and frightening chapter? Having someone to walk alongside you while you find your way and discover parts of yourself or even re-discover a self that has been neglected can be exactly what you need to chart a new course. Whether working through challenges in your relationship, dealing with the effects of childhood trauma, wrestling with identity issues, navigating workplace stress, coping with grief and loss, or whatever this chapter has you facing - I'm here to help! Let's talk soon!
(757) 210-6639 View (757) 210-6639
Photo of Sarah-Kate Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sarah-Kate Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am Sarah-Kate Hawkins, a highly motivated, creative, and versatile Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 30 years of experience working successfully with teens, adults, families, and couples. I specialize in assisting those with anxiety, behavioral issues, attachment-based issues, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties, academic issues, chronic stress, sexuality-based concerns, family conflict, and much more. I earned my Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University.
I am Sarah-Kate Hawkins, a highly motivated, creative, and versatile Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 30 years of experience working successfully with teens, adults, families, and couples. I specialize in assisting those with anxiety, behavioral issues, attachment-based issues, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties, academic issues, chronic stress, sexuality-based concerns, family conflict, and much more. I earned my Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University.
(757) 909-6664 View (757) 909-6664
Photo of Dr. Mackenzie Collen, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Dr. Mackenzie Collen
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Mackenzie completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from Regent University. She subsequently completed a neuropsychology focused clinical internship at Christiana Care Health System and a 2-year clinical neuropsychology fellowship at the Lt. Col Luke Weathers Jr. (Memphis) VA Medical Center. Mackenzie sees adults who are experiencing emotional and neurocognitive difficulties that may be the result of many different conditions affecting the brain.
Mackenzie completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from Regent University. She subsequently completed a neuropsychology focused clinical internship at Christiana Care Health System and a 2-year clinical neuropsychology fellowship at the Lt. Col Luke Weathers Jr. (Memphis) VA Medical Center. Mackenzie sees adults who are experiencing emotional and neurocognitive difficulties that may be the result of many different conditions affecting the brain.
(757) 540-2684 View (757) 540-2684
Photo of Elizabeth McElligott, Resident in Counseling, LPC-R, MA
Elizabeth McElligott
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I’m Elizabeth. Whether you or your child are navigating stress, school problems, grief, anxiety, depression, or a major life transition, I’m here to help you find clarity and healing. I offer a supportive space where you can process emotions, build effective coping skills, and work toward personal growth. Maybe you’re hoping to heal from a loss, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or boost self-confidence — whatever your goal, we’ll navigate it together.
Hi! I’m Elizabeth. Whether you or your child are navigating stress, school problems, grief, anxiety, depression, or a major life transition, I’m here to help you find clarity and healing. I offer a supportive space where you can process emotions, build effective coping skills, and work toward personal growth. Maybe you’re hoping to heal from a loss, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or boost self-confidence — whatever your goal, we’ll navigate it together.
(757) 280-4873 View (757) 280-4873
Photo of Eleanor Lampell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Eleanor Lampell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Art Therapist based in Hampton Roads, Virginia, with over 19 years of experience providing comprehensive counseling services. Currently offering telehealth services to clients statewide, I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate anxiety, depression, AD/HD, grief and loss, trauma and stress-related disorders, and life transitions. Through a holistic approach that integrates traditional therapeutic techniques with creative art therapy, I offer a unique way for clients to explore and process their emotions in a safe, non-judgmental space.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Art Therapist based in Hampton Roads, Virginia, with over 19 years of experience providing comprehensive counseling services. Currently offering telehealth services to clients statewide, I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate anxiety, depression, AD/HD, grief and loss, trauma and stress-related disorders, and life transitions. Through a holistic approach that integrates traditional therapeutic techniques with creative art therapy, I offer a unique way for clients to explore and process their emotions in a safe, non-judgmental space.
(757) 720-2277 View (757) 720-2277
Photo of Priscilla Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, LPC-S
Priscilla Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23323
Waitlist for new clients
People face many challenges in their lives that they have difficulty to address. My primary goal is to help people find new ways to address stress, cope with complicated relationships, and face many other common life challenges. I help preteens, adolescents, and adults address their mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-esteem, mood disorders, personality disorder, and stress. I hope to help the client to address their issues and live healthier lives. By applying therapeutic techniques will help the client to learn how to better manage life situations.
People face many challenges in their lives that they have difficulty to address. My primary goal is to help people find new ways to address stress, cope with complicated relationships, and face many other common life challenges. I help preteens, adolescents, and adults address their mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-esteem, mood disorders, personality disorder, and stress. I hope to help the client to address their issues and live healthier lives. By applying therapeutic techniques will help the client to learn how to better manage life situations.
(757) 324-5392 View (757) 324-5392
Photo of Chris Torre, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Chris Torre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Chesapeake, VA 23322
My passion is working to help children and their families who are struggling with conflict, emotional/ behavioral problems, and trauma. It is my pleasure to help my clients learn about themselves and discover their own personal and family strengths through engaging and interactive therapy. I use a variety of tools in session, including play/ drama, music, art, and sand tray to help individuals express themselves. Being a child, teenager, or caregiver is hard! I can provide the knowledge and tools to help my clients learn how to overcome life's challenges by channeling their own personal strengths.
My passion is working to help children and their families who are struggling with conflict, emotional/ behavioral problems, and trauma. It is my pleasure to help my clients learn about themselves and discover their own personal and family strengths through engaging and interactive therapy. I use a variety of tools in session, including play/ drama, music, art, and sand tray to help individuals express themselves. Being a child, teenager, or caregiver is hard! I can provide the knowledge and tools to help my clients learn how to overcome life's challenges by channeling their own personal strengths.
(757) 330-2439 View (757) 330-2439
Photo of Sharde A O'Rourke - The Mahogany Projek, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, LMFT, LCSW
The Mahogany Projek, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, LMFT, LCSW
Online Only
The Mahogany Projek was created out love for human beings, passion for helping others and a need that Sharde' O., LPC, CCTP, LTSAP, LMFT saw in the community of mental health and substance abuse. In working with various mental health and substance abuse agencies and populations there emerged a need in response to her purpose to engage people in the experience of finding their best selves and living their truth.  While engaging a variety of clients and investing in counseling services herself, she noticed the need for both creative counseling services, consulting services, ethical and holistic mental health & SA services.
The Mahogany Projek was created out love for human beings, passion for helping others and a need that Sharde' O., LPC, CCTP, LTSAP, LMFT saw in the community of mental health and substance abuse. In working with various mental health and substance abuse agencies and populations there emerged a need in response to her purpose to engage people in the experience of finding their best selves and living their truth.  While engaging a variety of clients and investing in counseling services herself, she noticed the need for both creative counseling services, consulting services, ethical and holistic mental health & SA services.
(757) 267-6465 View (757) 267-6465
Photo of Dr. LaShawn Gooden, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. LaShawn Gooden
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Does life feel challenging right now? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Are you trying to find the path forward but having difficulty? If any of these sentiments resonate with you, I'm here for you. I am a military veteran with experience working with several concerns, but the most common include: anxiety, depression, confidence/self-esteem, relational problems, life transitions, and identity exploration. I want to support you on your wellness journey. I am able to provide interjurisdictional telehealth in 42 states.
Does life feel challenging right now? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Are you trying to find the path forward but having difficulty? If any of these sentiments resonate with you, I'm here for you. I am a military veteran with experience working with several concerns, but the most common include: anxiety, depression, confidence/self-esteem, relational problems, life transitions, and identity exploration. I want to support you on your wellness journey. I am able to provide interjurisdictional telehealth in 42 states.
(757) 505-7702 View (757) 505-7702
Photo of Alise Stults, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alise Stults
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am Alise Stults, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been providing therapy services for more than 4 years. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families address challenges, overcome barriers to success, and improve their well-being. I specialize in identity exploration, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, and emotional regulation.
I am Alise Stults, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been providing therapy services for more than 4 years. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families address challenges, overcome barriers to success, and improve their well-being. I specialize in identity exploration, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, and emotional regulation.
(757) 300-1350 View (757) 300-1350
Photo of Delores Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Delores Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hello. My name is Delores Morris, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I approach therapy from a client-centered perspective that's based on the individual needs of each client. My style and approach are typically a good match for adults who may be experiencing grief, depression, PTSD, anxiety, job stress, life transitions, and other similar conditions or concerns. Clients who are seeking to gain insight into the way they are feeling.
Hello. My name is Delores Morris, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I approach therapy from a client-centered perspective that's based on the individual needs of each client. My style and approach are typically a good match for adults who may be experiencing grief, depression, PTSD, anxiety, job stress, life transitions, and other similar conditions or concerns. Clients who are seeking to gain insight into the way they are feeling.
(434) 722-3741 View (434) 722-3741
Photo of Julie Johns, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHP-C
Julie Johns
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHP-C
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Have you recently been through a life transition, feelings of anxiety, depression or just overwhelmed? Are you seeking assistance in healing from past trauma? I am here and happy to help you on your journey. My therapeutic style is from a Holistic perspective where I help clients connect the mind and body. I believe that learning how to show ourselves compassion, love and forgiveness can heal the parts of ourselves that have been impacted by life experiences.
Have you recently been through a life transition, feelings of anxiety, depression or just overwhelmed? Are you seeking assistance in healing from past trauma? I am here and happy to help you on your journey. My therapeutic style is from a Holistic perspective where I help clients connect the mind and body. I believe that learning how to show ourselves compassion, love and forgiveness can heal the parts of ourselves that have been impacted by life experiences.
(757) 798-8008 View (757) 798-8008
Photo of Shelby Dillingham, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MSEd
Shelby Dillingham
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MSEd
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
My clinical experiences include working with adolescents and adults in a range of settings, such as inpatient behavioral health units, outpatient private practice, and integrated healthcare clinics such as primary care settings. These experiences allowed me to work with different presenting concerns, such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship concerns, smoking cessation, and trauma. I specifically collaborate with clients to develop individualized goals unique to their needs.
My clinical experiences include working with adolescents and adults in a range of settings, such as inpatient behavioral health units, outpatient private practice, and integrated healthcare clinics such as primary care settings. These experiences allowed me to work with different presenting concerns, such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship concerns, smoking cessation, and trauma. I specifically collaborate with clients to develop individualized goals unique to their needs.
(757) 997-7032 View (757) 997-7032
Photo of Ciera Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ciera Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23321
Many clients are going through a challenging life transition or facing personal struggles like anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, or depression. They may also be parents seeking guidance or individuals dealing with work-related stress. Most clients wants to gain clarity, feel understood, and learn practical strategies to move forward. They seek a safe space where they can express themselves without judgment, work on personal growth, and achieve a sense of peace and fulfillment. Regardless of your personal struggles, I provide support to help you break limiting patterns and build healthier relationships.
Many clients are going through a challenging life transition or facing personal struggles like anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, or depression. They may also be parents seeking guidance or individuals dealing with work-related stress. Most clients wants to gain clarity, feel understood, and learn practical strategies to move forward. They seek a safe space where they can express themselves without judgment, work on personal growth, and achieve a sense of peace and fulfillment. Regardless of your personal struggles, I provide support to help you break limiting patterns and build healthier relationships.
(757) 840-3790 x161 View (757) 840-3790 x161
Photo of Justin Steele, Psychologist, PsyD
Justin Steele
Psychologist, PsyD
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Dr. Steele earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religion, Psychology, and Sociology from The University of Findlay in 2007. He then went on to pursue some of his personal interests and earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Cinema/TV Directing from Regent University in 2010. Finally, Dr. Steele earned a Master of Arts (MA) and Doctorate (Psy. D. ) in Clinical Psychology from Regent University in 2013 and 2017, respectively. During his career. Dr. Steele has served on active duty in the United States Army and completed rotations in a sleep clinic, a primary care center, and in cognitive evaluation.
Dr. Steele earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religion, Psychology, and Sociology from The University of Findlay in 2007. He then went on to pursue some of his personal interests and earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Cinema/TV Directing from Regent University in 2010. Finally, Dr. Steele earned a Master of Arts (MA) and Doctorate (Psy. D. ) in Clinical Psychology from Regent University in 2013 and 2017, respectively. During his career. Dr. Steele has served on active duty in the United States Army and completed rotations in a sleep clinic, a primary care center, and in cognitive evaluation.
(757) 239-3576 View (757) 239-3576
Photo of Mark Thomas Bleil - Mind Heart Connection LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP
Mind Heart Connection LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP
Chesapeake, VA 23322
I believe that the foundation of therapy is the collaborative relationship between client and therapist exploring possibilities and solutions to transcend suffering, face reality and remove barriers to wellbeing. Mark Twain was quoted as saying “Life is one damn thing after the next”. Many times it is the perspective we take on life’s experiences and our focus of attention that determine our emotional and physical wellbeing. I believe that it is my job to help you identify and yes, remember the strengths and resources you have accumulated throughout a lifetime of experience that can have a profoundly positive effect on your life.
I believe that the foundation of therapy is the collaborative relationship between client and therapist exploring possibilities and solutions to transcend suffering, face reality and remove barriers to wellbeing. Mark Twain was quoted as saying “Life is one damn thing after the next”. Many times it is the perspective we take on life’s experiences and our focus of attention that determine our emotional and physical wellbeing. I believe that it is my job to help you identify and yes, remember the strengths and resources you have accumulated throughout a lifetime of experience that can have a profoundly positive effect on your life.
(757) 695-9083 View (757) 695-9083
Photo of Jacquelyn Feliciano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jacquelyn Feliciano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with adults, adolescents and children in a variety of settings. I am passionate about working individually with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, adjusting to life changes, engaging in negative self-talk, childhood trauma, or experiencing relationship difficulties. We all face life challenges and sometimes need the support of others to overcome them.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with adults, adolescents and children in a variety of settings. I am passionate about working individually with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, adjusting to life changes, engaging in negative self-talk, childhood trauma, or experiencing relationship difficulties. We all face life challenges and sometimes need the support of others to overcome them.
(757) 997-1679 View (757) 997-1679
Photo of Tawanda McPhatter, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tawanda McPhatter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hello! My name is Ms. Tawanda McPhatter and I'm a licensed professional counselor. I have been providing therapy for 12 years. I allow my clients a safe space to discuss their issues, concerns, and needs for themselves. I am a very avid listener and I feel that listening is very important when assisting my clients and helps identify their feelings and thoughts on things so that I can identify ways that I can be of assistance in helping to work through and/or address these issues and/or concerns.
Hello! My name is Ms. Tawanda McPhatter and I'm a licensed professional counselor. I have been providing therapy for 12 years. I allow my clients a safe space to discuss their issues, concerns, and needs for themselves. I am a very avid listener and I feel that listening is very important when assisting my clients and helps identify their feelings and thoughts on things so that I can identify ways that I can be of assistance in helping to work through and/or address these issues and/or concerns.
(571) 576-6119 View (571) 576-6119
Photo of Nevajo Warren, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nevajo Warren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming, and finding balance is not always easy. Whether you are struggling with stress, relationships, life transitions, or personal growth, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can process challenges and develop meaning coping strategies. As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotions, set healthy boundaries, and make empowered decisions. My approach is collaborative, solution-focused, and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will work toward clarity, confidence, and the life you envision.
Life can be overwhelming, and finding balance is not always easy. Whether you are struggling with stress, relationships, life transitions, or personal growth, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can process challenges and develop meaning coping strategies. As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotions, set healthy boundaries, and make empowered decisions. My approach is collaborative, solution-focused, and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will work toward clarity, confidence, and the life you envision.
(757) 906-3842 View (757) 906-3842
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chesapeake, VA

800+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Chesapeake, VA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
72% Stress
70% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills
65% Relationship Issues
65% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
80% Anthem
79% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Chesapeake, VA see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chesapeake?

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.