Therapists in Wise, VA

Photo of Sarabeth Marshall, Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Sarabeth Marshall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
4 Endorsed
Wise, VA 24293
You may be feeling stressed, anxious, or weighed down by challenges in your life or relationships. Maybe you want a safe space to talk things through, sort out what you are feeling, and find healthier ways to cope. You might also be hoping for stronger connections with the people you care about or simply wishing to feel more at peace with yourself. If you're ready to take steps toward greater self-understanding, I would be honored to walk alongside you. Together, we can work on managing emotions, improving communication, and building the confidence to face life’s ups and downs. My goal is to support you along the way.
You may be feeling stressed, anxious, or weighed down by challenges in your life or relationships. Maybe you want a safe space to talk things through, sort out what you are feeling, and find healthier ways to cope. You might also be hoping for stronger connections with the people you care about or simply wishing to feel more at peace with yourself. If you're ready to take steps toward greater self-understanding, I would be honored to walk alongside you. Together, we can work on managing emotions, improving communication, and building the confidence to face life’s ups and downs. My goal is to support you along the way.
(276) 421-4109 View (276) 421-4109
Photo of Stephanie Hope Strouth - Anchoring Hope Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Anchoring Hope Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Wise, VA 24293
At Anchoring Hope, we are here to support you in overcoming life’s challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or family dynamics, our compassionate therapists are ready to guide you. Our goal is to help you build coping skills and emotional resilience, empowering you to live a more fulfilling, balanced life. We offer individual, couple, and family therapy to address your unique needs. Visit www.ahchope.com to connect with a therapist, complete our interest form, or explore helpful resources!
At Anchoring Hope, we are here to support you in overcoming life’s challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or family dynamics, our compassionate therapists are ready to guide you. Our goal is to help you build coping skills and emotional resilience, empowering you to live a more fulfilling, balanced life. We offer individual, couple, and family therapy to address your unique needs. Visit www.ahchope.com to connect with a therapist, complete our interest form, or explore helpful resources!
(276) 242-3540 View (276) 242-3540
Photo of Marianna Skidmore, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marianna Skidmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Wise, VA 24293
Are you struggling with depression? Anxiety? Are you going through a life transition? Are you trying to figure out who you are? I am glad you found me! My name is Marianna Skidmore, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia. I have been practicing for over a decade, and I am a firm believer that therapy can be a valuable tool for anyone. I am a very person-centered therapist, meaning I believe that you are the expert of your life. My goal is to help you explore yourself and guide you towards the person YOU want to be. I also utilize a variety of other modalities, including CBT, SFT, MI, and EMDR.
Are you struggling with depression? Anxiety? Are you going through a life transition? Are you trying to figure out who you are? I am glad you found me! My name is Marianna Skidmore, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia. I have been practicing for over a decade, and I am a firm believer that therapy can be a valuable tool for anyone. I am a very person-centered therapist, meaning I believe that you are the expert of your life. My goal is to help you explore yourself and guide you towards the person YOU want to be. I also utilize a variety of other modalities, including CBT, SFT, MI, and EMDR.
(276) 521-5786 View (276) 521-5786
Photo of Brittany Wampler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brittany Wampler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Wise, VA 24293
Let’s walk through your story together! I’m Brittany Wampler, an LPC in Virginia. My journey started in teaching, but after experiencing personal loss and challenges, I felt called to help others navigate their own struggles. With a Master’s in Education from Lindsey Wilson, along with degrees in Education, English, and Literature, I bring a unique perspective to therapy—one that values your personal story and the meaning behind your experiences. Whether you're facing grief, life transitions, or emotional challenges, I’m here to provide a compassionate space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.
Let’s walk through your story together! I’m Brittany Wampler, an LPC in Virginia. My journey started in teaching, but after experiencing personal loss and challenges, I felt called to help others navigate their own struggles. With a Master’s in Education from Lindsey Wilson, along with degrees in Education, English, and Literature, I bring a unique perspective to therapy—one that values your personal story and the meaning behind your experiences. Whether you're facing grief, life transitions, or emotional challenges, I’m here to provide a compassionate space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.
(276) 566-1702 View (276) 566-1702
Photo of Shaylan Gross, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shaylan Gross
Pre-Licensed Professional
Wise, VA 24293
Hi, I'm Shaylan. Life can shift in ways we don’t anticipate, and sometimes we wake up feeling lost in our own story. Maybe you’re working through relationship trouble, struggling to set boundaries, or battling the quiet exhaustion of trying to hold it all together. I offer a space where you can unpack it all, meeting you exactly where you are, without expectations.
Hi, I'm Shaylan. Life can shift in ways we don’t anticipate, and sometimes we wake up feeling lost in our own story. Maybe you’re working through relationship trouble, struggling to set boundaries, or battling the quiet exhaustion of trying to hold it all together. I offer a space where you can unpack it all, meeting you exactly where you are, without expectations.
(276) 531-3339 View (276) 531-3339
Photo of John S. Paul, Resident in Counseling, MA, BC-TMH
John S. Paul
Resident in Counseling, MA, BC-TMH
7 Endorsed
Wise, VA 24293
Healing from attachment wounds and early life trauma can feel overwhelming. If you struggle with self-doubt, shame, or a sense of not being enough, you are not alone. Even taking a moment to read this is a meaningful step. You can move toward feeling more connected, accepted, and at peace with yourself. Simply know you don’t have to do it alone. You might feel stuck or unsure where to turn. Maybe you’re craving relief, clarity, or just a place to slow down and be seen. I offer a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and start finding the balance and understanding you’ve been looking for.
Healing from attachment wounds and early life trauma can feel overwhelming. If you struggle with self-doubt, shame, or a sense of not being enough, you are not alone. Even taking a moment to read this is a meaningful step. You can move toward feeling more connected, accepted, and at peace with yourself. Simply know you don’t have to do it alone. You might feel stuck or unsure where to turn. Maybe you’re craving relief, clarity, or just a place to slow down and be seen. I offer a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and start finding the balance and understanding you’ve been looking for.
(276) 688-6203 View (276) 688-6203
Photo of Lori M Long, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Lori M Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
Lori Long, a Licensed Professional and National Certified Virginia Counselor, has worked in varied fields, including public and private schools, and in-home and psychiatric hospital settings. Long has many years of experience addressing anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorders, autism, bi-polar behavior, attachment/adjustment difficulties, serious emotional issues, behavioral challenges and trauma survival. By offering unique opportunity in a private, confidential setting, Long seeks to empower her clients to overcome challenges, leading them toward the authentic realization of a satisfying, rewarding life.
Lori Long, a Licensed Professional and National Certified Virginia Counselor, has worked in varied fields, including public and private schools, and in-home and psychiatric hospital settings. Long has many years of experience addressing anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorders, autism, bi-polar behavior, attachment/adjustment difficulties, serious emotional issues, behavioral challenges and trauma survival. By offering unique opportunity in a private, confidential setting, Long seeks to empower her clients to overcome challenges, leading them toward the authentic realization of a satisfying, rewarding life.
(276) 325-2420 View (276) 325-2420
Photo of Gregory Allen George II, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALPS
Gregory Allen George II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALPS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is seeking personal growth and healing from trauma, stress, and emotional regulation issues. They need a safe, empathetic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goals include improving mental health, enhancing relationships, and gaining coping strategies. They want to feel empowered and resilient, driven by a desire for self-discovery and meaningful change.
My ideal client is seeking personal growth and healing from trauma, stress, and emotional regulation issues. They need a safe, empathetic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goals include improving mental health, enhancing relationships, and gaining coping strategies. They want to feel empowered and resilient, driven by a desire for self-discovery and meaningful change.
(304) 836-3687 View (304) 836-3687
Photo of Heather Doute, Counselor, LPC, CSOTP
Heather Doute
Counselor, LPC, CSOTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to your new beginning! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports those who suffer from sexual related issues to include sex therapy and sexual deviancy, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, stress, and relationship dysfunction utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral, Person Centered, and Acceptance Approach. My goal is to join with my clients to discuss current stressors, process emotions, and assist in determining solutions together. Whether you choose to focus on your current issues or issues from your past, together, we can work through those issues and develop appropriate coping skills which will lead to manageable behaviors.
Welcome to your new beginning! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports those who suffer from sexual related issues to include sex therapy and sexual deviancy, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, stress, and relationship dysfunction utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral, Person Centered, and Acceptance Approach. My goal is to join with my clients to discuss current stressors, process emotions, and assist in determining solutions together. Whether you choose to focus on your current issues or issues from your past, together, we can work through those issues and develop appropriate coping skills which will lead to manageable behaviors.
(571) 506-6514 View (571) 506-6514

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brandi O'Quinn, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCATP, C-PD
Brandi O'Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCATP, C-PD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
For many years, I have been dedicated to working with individuals who struggle with many challenges that life has to bring. While we all face challenges, sometimes there are hardships or circumstances that leave us feeling like things are out of our control. I am passionate about working with individuals who are having difficulties with managing intense emotions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, stress management, and other difficulties in life.
For many years, I have been dedicated to working with individuals who struggle with many challenges that life has to bring. While we all face challenges, sometimes there are hardships or circumstances that leave us feeling like things are out of our control. I am passionate about working with individuals who are having difficulties with managing intense emotions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, stress management, and other difficulties in life.
(276) 530-2140 View (276) 530-2140
Photo of Kristian Delaney, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kristian Delaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
If you have ever asked yourself "why do I do this," or "why do I feel this way," I want you to know those are valid questions and the answers are not out of reach. I believe that you deserve the best version of yourself that you can have and that includes working through past trauma/experiences, anxiety, self-esteem, and other concerns. I have dedicated myself to help clients understand themselves more, help process and heal through, and assist in the journey of life. I believe you deserve to live life fully the way you want to, as who you are, and I use my expertise to support you wherever you are in the process.
If you have ever asked yourself "why do I do this," or "why do I feel this way," I want you to know those are valid questions and the answers are not out of reach. I believe that you deserve the best version of yourself that you can have and that includes working through past trauma/experiences, anxiety, self-esteem, and other concerns. I have dedicated myself to help clients understand themselves more, help process and heal through, and assist in the journey of life. I believe you deserve to live life fully the way you want to, as who you are, and I use my expertise to support you wherever you are in the process.
View
Photo of Kandice Ketterling - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Abingdon, Counselor
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Cherrelle Davis, Resident in Counseling, MEd, LRIC
Cherrelle Davis
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LRIC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a therapist, I aim to cultivate a safe and inviting space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings without any fear of judgment. I bring warmth, empathy, and a collaborative spirit to our sessions, firmly believing that therapy can be a meaningful avenue for personal growth and self-discovery. With more than 10 years of experience in education and counseling, I focus on supporting young adults and teens as they navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, peer pressure, self-esteem, and stress. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals recognize their strengths and embrace their sense of self-worth.
As a therapist, I aim to cultivate a safe and inviting space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings without any fear of judgment. I bring warmth, empathy, and a collaborative spirit to our sessions, firmly believing that therapy can be a meaningful avenue for personal growth and self-discovery. With more than 10 years of experience in education and counseling, I focus on supporting young adults and teens as they navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, peer pressure, self-esteem, and stress. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals recognize their strengths and embrace their sense of self-worth.
(804) 656-5724 View (804) 656-5724
Photo of Barbara Pittman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Barbara Pittman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're a parent seeking support for your child, you’re looking for a therapist who radiates warmth and positivity—someone who can create a safe and nurturing space where your child can heal and grow. You want an experienced professional with over two decades of expertise in play therapy and trauma recovery, who truly understands the unique needs of children aged 3 to 17. Whether your child is navigating PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, you’re seeking more than just a therapist—you want a compassionate partner who will walk alongside your family on the path to healing and resilience.
If you're a parent seeking support for your child, you’re looking for a therapist who radiates warmth and positivity—someone who can create a safe and nurturing space where your child can heal and grow. You want an experienced professional with over two decades of expertise in play therapy and trauma recovery, who truly understands the unique needs of children aged 3 to 17. Whether your child is navigating PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, you’re seeking more than just a therapist—you want a compassionate partner who will walk alongside your family on the path to healing and resilience.
(276) 877-2850 View (276) 877-2850
Photo of Melissa Dye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP
Melissa Dye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP
Dungannon, VA 24245
My clients ages range across the lifespan from age three to eighty three. Working in different environments such as inpatient, outpatient, and school based programs has enhanced my skills and knowledge to provide person centered care.
My clients ages range across the lifespan from age three to eighty three. Working in different environments such as inpatient, outpatient, and school based programs has enhanced my skills and knowledge to provide person centered care.
(276) 531-9328 View (276) 531-9328
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Norton, VA 24273
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(276) 624-6831 View (276) 624-6831
Photo of Samantha Schaffer, MSEd, LPC
Samantha Schaffer
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck in your relationships — unsure of your needs, boundaries, or who you are anymore? Maybe you’ve been in a toxic dynamic or find yourself repeating patterns that leave you anxious or overwhelmed. I work with young and midlife adults from diverse backgrounds — including people of all genders, LGBTQ+ folks, and BIPOC individuals — to better understand themselves and build healthier, more authentic relationships, starting with the one they have with themselves.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationships — unsure of your needs, boundaries, or who you are anymore? Maybe you’ve been in a toxic dynamic or find yourself repeating patterns that leave you anxious or overwhelmed. I work with young and midlife adults from diverse backgrounds — including people of all genders, LGBTQ+ folks, and BIPOC individuals — to better understand themselves and build healthier, more authentic relationships, starting with the one they have with themselves.
(571) 322-8129 View (571) 322-8129
Photo of Erin Janovec, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Erin Janovec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
(804) 373-2360 View (804) 373-2360
Photo of Teri Dahley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Teri Dahley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am Teri, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and licensed substance abuse treatment practitioner (LSATP) with extensive experience in behavioral health, having worked in the field since 2018. My dedication lies in supporting individuals who are navigating mental health challenges and substance use disorders. I believe in the power of education, helping my clients understand how their behaviors and past experiences shape their present circumstances and future potential. I am now accepting clients in the State of Florida. My approach to therapy is rooted in empowerment.
I am Teri, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and licensed substance abuse treatment practitioner (LSATP) with extensive experience in behavioral health, having worked in the field since 2018. My dedication lies in supporting individuals who are navigating mental health challenges and substance use disorders. I believe in the power of education, helping my clients understand how their behaviors and past experiences shape their present circumstances and future potential. I am now accepting clients in the State of Florida. My approach to therapy is rooted in empowerment.
(276) 881-1075 View (276) 881-1075
Photo of Kristi Gilliam, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kristi Gilliam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical provider. I utilize multiple modalities to provide coping skills to manage ADHD, Intrusive negative thoughts, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, vocational stress, and relationship challenges. The most utilized modalities as a behavioral therapist are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional-focused therapy, and Acceptance and commitment therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical provider. I utilize multiple modalities to provide coping skills to manage ADHD, Intrusive negative thoughts, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, vocational stress, and relationship challenges. The most utilized modalities as a behavioral therapist are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional-focused therapy, and Acceptance and commitment therapy.
(804) 207-8191 View (804) 207-8191

See more therapy options for Wise

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Wise, VA

< 10

Therapists in Wise, VA who prioritize treating:

78% Anxiety
78% Women's Issues
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
56% Relationship Issues
56% Depression
56% Marriage Counseling

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Aetna
88% Anthem

How Therapists in Wise, VA see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Wise?

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.