Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

Photo of Paula L Casey, LMFT, CMHS, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula L Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS, AT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
Paula, is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist,Art Therapist and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist. with graduate degree in Psychology and BA in Biology and Psychology. Paula has trained extensively in complex trauma, childhood neurodevelopment, attachment, developmental trauma, parent/child interactionalTherapy (PCIT), and generational trauma. As a Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, she helps identify and support the development of healing intentions and ongoing integration of insights gained through the sacred journey.
Paula, is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist,Art Therapist and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist. with graduate degree in Psychology and BA in Biology and Psychology. Paula has trained extensively in complex trauma, childhood neurodevelopment, attachment, developmental trauma, parent/child interactionalTherapy (PCIT), and generational trauma. As a Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, she helps identify and support the development of healing intentions and ongoing integration of insights gained through the sacred journey.
(360) 361-8596 View (360) 361-8596
Photo of Esther Fredholm Conway, PhD, Psychologist
Esther Fredholm Conway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
(360) 301-4564 View (360) 301-4564
Photo of Karen Richards, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am a climate-aware therapist, specializing in inner experience related to the climate crisis. I help you experience and process emotions, gain perspective, figure out what to do, and grow resilience. I work with groups and individuals as we figure out how to ”be with” the multiple interwoven crises of this time, how to respond with resilience, and how to live in a positive regenerative way in our individual and community lives. Additionally, individual counseling offers support with climate-related emotions, fears, and questions about the future.
Welcome! I am a climate-aware therapist, specializing in inner experience related to the climate crisis. I help you experience and process emotions, gain perspective, figure out what to do, and grow resilience. I work with groups and individuals as we figure out how to ”be with” the multiple interwoven crises of this time, how to respond with resilience, and how to live in a positive regenerative way in our individual and community lives. Additionally, individual counseling offers support with climate-related emotions, fears, and questions about the future.
(360) 727-0833 View (360) 727-0833
Photo of Laila Josephine Ayyoub, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laila Josephine Ayyoub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
(458) 207-2062 View (458) 207-2062
Photo of Elisabeth Heiner, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Elisabeth Heiner
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Hello! Thank you for taking time to take care of yourself through therapy. I provide treatment for adults, adolescents, children, and couples. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, and adjustment disorders, as well as behavioral issues and trauma in children.
Hello! Thank you for taking time to take care of yourself through therapy. I provide treatment for adults, adolescents, children, and couples. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, and adjustment disorders, as well as behavioral issues and trauma in children.
(360) 226-7127 View (360) 226-7127
Photo of Claire Sophia Sarff-Foden - Claire Sophia, MAEd, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Sophia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
In 8 years of working in mental health, I have served neurodiverse, chronically traumatized and systemically oppressed people, of all ages, including children under 5, elders, couples, adolescents and parents. The golden thread is being safe enough space for authenticity. Considering the oppressive origins of the mental health complex, all feelings are valid, folks have every right to not trust me or this work, and skepticism is welcomed. We all have a natural capacity for healing, and it is my honor to support folks with removing obstacles to allow for their healing and authentic joy.
In 8 years of working in mental health, I have served neurodiverse, chronically traumatized and systemically oppressed people, of all ages, including children under 5, elders, couples, adolescents and parents. The golden thread is being safe enough space for authenticity. Considering the oppressive origins of the mental health complex, all feelings are valid, folks have every right to not trust me or this work, and skepticism is welcomed. We all have a natural capacity for healing, and it is my honor to support folks with removing obstacles to allow for their healing and authentic joy.
(360) 495-1746 View (360) 495-1746
Photo of Melissa S Layer, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa S Layer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Can you imagine that it's possible to behold your journey as an opportunity for growth, healing and enriched connections? What would it be like to know that you have the capacity to hold both grief and gratitude? It could be that you have come to a cross-road or are standing on significant thresholds as you face transitions, challenges and decision-making. Maybe grief has cracked you open, or you are struggling with illness and long to discover meaning and balance once again. Perhaps you have an emergent sense that there is “something more” that you are yearning for?
Can you imagine that it's possible to behold your journey as an opportunity for growth, healing and enriched connections? What would it be like to know that you have the capacity to hold both grief and gratitude? It could be that you have come to a cross-road or are standing on significant thresholds as you face transitions, challenges and decision-making. Maybe grief has cracked you open, or you are struggling with illness and long to discover meaning and balance once again. Perhaps you have an emergent sense that there is “something more” that you are yearning for?
(360) 205-9995 View (360) 205-9995
Photo of Julia Eakes - Inner Wisdom HLC, LLC, LMFT
Inner Wisdom HLC, LLC
LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Are you ready to free yourself from limiting beliefs that contribute to social, emotional, physical issues or behaviors? I would love to work with you, to help you gain back your freedom. What's holding you back? Are you feeling not enough? Is your weight holding you back? Are you anxious in any way or depressed? If you want to succeed in the most important aspects of your life - in relationships, your job and how you feel about yourself, I can help you be truly happy and free you from self-destructive thoughts and behaviors, living a confident, motivated and happier life. I can help you let go of the past that is holding you back.
Are you ready to free yourself from limiting beliefs that contribute to social, emotional, physical issues or behaviors? I would love to work with you, to help you gain back your freedom. What's holding you back? Are you feeling not enough? Is your weight holding you back? Are you anxious in any way or depressed? If you want to succeed in the most important aspects of your life - in relationships, your job and how you feel about yourself, I can help you be truly happy and free you from self-destructive thoughts and behaviors, living a confident, motivated and happier life. I can help you let go of the past that is holding you back.
(360) 821-9901 View (360) 821-9901
Photo of Joseph Meyering Sr - Intervention NW, AAS, SUDP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Intervention NW
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, AAS, SUDP
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am writing to you with a profound passion for helping individuals embark on their transformative journey towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. My commitment to fostering positive change, coupled with a wealth of experience and a genuine empathy for those facing the challenges of addiction, makes me the ideal choice for your counseling needs. As a dedicated drug and alcohol counselor, my primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the complexities of your journey. I bring a comprehensive understanding of addiction, drawing from both academic knowledge and years of hands-on experience.
I am writing to you with a profound passion for helping individuals embark on their transformative journey towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. My commitment to fostering positive change, coupled with a wealth of experience and a genuine empathy for those facing the challenges of addiction, makes me the ideal choice for your counseling needs. As a dedicated drug and alcohol counselor, my primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the complexities of your journey. I bring a comprehensive understanding of addiction, drawing from both academic knowledge and years of hands-on experience.
(360) 615-2412 View (360) 615-2412
Photo of Freida Fenn, MA, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Freida Fenn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am accepting new clients. I assist Couples, Individuals, Teens and Families. See my website: fenntherapy.com. I provide emotional support, practical communication tools and emotional coping skills. Together, we create a treatment plan for positive change. Unresolved family issues, trauma, stress, couple conflicts, parenting challenges, life transitions and changes in your primary relationships can get you down. You deserve support and help to heal. I create a safe place for you to create the healthy changes you desire. I look forward to meeting you.
I am accepting new clients. I assist Couples, Individuals, Teens and Families. See my website: fenntherapy.com. I provide emotional support, practical communication tools and emotional coping skills. Together, we create a treatment plan for positive change. Unresolved family issues, trauma, stress, couple conflicts, parenting challenges, life transitions and changes in your primary relationships can get you down. You deserve support and help to heal. I create a safe place for you to create the healthy changes you desire. I look forward to meeting you.
(360) 262-4318 View (360) 262-4318
Photo of Kenneth Roy Collins, MSW, LICSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenneth Roy Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe in being genuine, respectful and empathetic. For a therapeutic relationship to develop, clients need to feel seen and understood. I strive to help my clients understand their own emotions, cope with difficult feelings, improve their relationships with themselves and the people they care about. Years ago, as a beginning therapist, I was influenced by research showing that the critical therapeutic element in psychotherapy, regardless of the discipline, was the relationship between the therapist and the client. Contemporary research confirms the importance of relationship in fostering therapeutic change.
As a therapist, I believe in being genuine, respectful and empathetic. For a therapeutic relationship to develop, clients need to feel seen and understood. I strive to help my clients understand their own emotions, cope with difficult feelings, improve their relationships with themselves and the people they care about. Years ago, as a beginning therapist, I was influenced by research showing that the critical therapeutic element in psychotherapy, regardless of the discipline, was the relationship between the therapist and the client. Contemporary research confirms the importance of relationship in fostering therapeutic change.
(360) 467-8103 View (360) 467-8103
Photo of Andrea Knutson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Knutson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
(360) 585-4790 View (360) 585-4790
Photo of Stephanie Best, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stephanie Best
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
The foundation of my work is to collaborate with you. I will guide you to honor your strengths and to trust your innate ability to heal. I specialize in Depression, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Trauma and Relationship ruptures. I am committed to providing ethical and accessible services for all humans of all ages, body types, abilities, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations. My experience is primarily with adolescents, adults, couples and families.
The foundation of my work is to collaborate with you. I will guide you to honor your strengths and to trust your innate ability to heal. I specialize in Depression, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Trauma and Relationship ruptures. I am committed to providing ethical and accessible services for all humans of all ages, body types, abilities, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations. My experience is primarily with adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(206) 466-0920 View (206) 466-0920
Photo of Christine Nock, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christine Nock
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
You can recover your authentic self! My compassionate and accepting approach uses a variety of simple and effective techniques to help clients understand themselves, make clear and conscious choices, learn to listen to their own inner wisdom, set healthy boundaries, fulfill their own deepest needs, and become their most authentic selves.
You can recover your authentic self! My compassionate and accepting approach uses a variety of simple and effective techniques to help clients understand themselves, make clear and conscious choices, learn to listen to their own inner wisdom, set healthy boundaries, fulfill their own deepest needs, and become their most authentic selves.
(360) 821-1407 View (360) 821-1407
Photo of Gabriel Wisswaesser, LMHCA, MA, MS, Counselor
Gabriel Wisswaesser
Counselor, LMHCA, MA, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Gaining awareness of your pain is an important first step. You may have noticed relationship complications, a harsh inner critic, the pangs of anxiety, the ripples of trauma, or a sense of being adrift. However challenging these dilemmas may be, your hope is for a more compassionate understanding of yourself and authentic connection to others. You want to interrupt your old patterns that diminish your health and wellbeing. It’s your curiosity and desire to explore these aching dilemmas that will serve to enrich your therapeutic experience.
Gaining awareness of your pain is an important first step. You may have noticed relationship complications, a harsh inner critic, the pangs of anxiety, the ripples of trauma, or a sense of being adrift. However challenging these dilemmas may be, your hope is for a more compassionate understanding of yourself and authentic connection to others. You want to interrupt your old patterns that diminish your health and wellbeing. It’s your curiosity and desire to explore these aching dilemmas that will serve to enrich your therapeutic experience.
(253) 465-9874 View (253) 465-9874
Photo of Vicki Fuller Allen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Fuller Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
My Interest is to work side by side with you in a journey of self discovery. These are trying times to navigate and a safe and supportive environment is essential for any of us to achieve our optimal way of being. You and I collaborate over what is most useful, helpful and relevant to actualize your needs and goals whether that's in the development of healthier more fulfilling relationships with others, recovering from trauma or seeking your heart's desire.
My Interest is to work side by side with you in a journey of self discovery. These are trying times to navigate and a safe and supportive environment is essential for any of us to achieve our optimal way of being. You and I collaborate over what is most useful, helpful and relevant to actualize your needs and goals whether that's in the development of healthier more fulfilling relationships with others, recovering from trauma or seeking your heart's desire.
(360) 996-1741 View (360) 996-1741
Photo of Sara Smithson, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Smithson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
View
Photo of Lynn B Gilman - Lynn Gilman, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, MA, LMHC, CCHT, Counselor
Lynn Gilman, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I offer psychedelic microdosing education and support, and journey preparation and integration. Microdosing can help rewire your brain to create new patterns; heal unresolved trauma; heal anxiety and depression; increase creativity and productivity; release emotional blocks; regulate the nervous system, and feel more connected to self and others.
I offer psychedelic microdosing education and support, and journey preparation and integration. Microdosing can help rewire your brain to create new patterns; heal unresolved trauma; heal anxiety and depression; increase creativity and productivity; release emotional blocks; regulate the nervous system, and feel more connected to self and others.
(360) 233-8218 View (360) 233-8218
Photo of Josh Kraetsch, LMHC
Josh Kraetsch
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
We often learn ways of dealing with problems that can create more trouble than we intended. Maybe you become habitually hard on yourself or those around you. Maybe you feel stuck in indecision or backed into a corner by life's demands. Maybe you have found ways to soothe yourself that aren't serving you anymore. Or you might be facing the reality of one of life's painful truths such as loss, illness or an accident that has altered your course, leaving you unsure how to face what undeniably is, or how to move forward.
We often learn ways of dealing with problems that can create more trouble than we intended. Maybe you become habitually hard on yourself or those around you. Maybe you feel stuck in indecision or backed into a corner by life's demands. Maybe you have found ways to soothe yourself that aren't serving you anymore. Or you might be facing the reality of one of life's painful truths such as loss, illness or an accident that has altered your course, leaving you unsure how to face what undeniably is, or how to move forward.
(360) 732-8672 View (360) 732-8672
Photo of Teresa Lee Haeg - Inner Growth Counseling, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, CDP, Counselor
Inner Growth Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
"Given that you are reading this, you may be experiencing stress and feeling anxious. As you take this courageous step toward solving a problem, know that working with a therapist can be collaborative, creative, and deeply meaningful. It can help with acute problems or long-standing struggles. I am now offering Saturday sessions. Please call or text my cell (503) 910-6571 for appointments or questions. I look forward to hearing from you. Good thoughts, Teresa
"Given that you are reading this, you may be experiencing stress and feeling anxious. As you take this courageous step toward solving a problem, know that working with a therapist can be collaborative, creative, and deeply meaningful. It can help with acute problems or long-standing struggles. I am now offering Saturday sessions. Please call or text my cell (503) 910-6571 for appointments or questions. I look forward to hearing from you. Good thoughts, Teresa
(509) 769-3793 View (509) 769-3793
1

See more therapy options for Port Townsend

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Port Townsend, WA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
81% Trauma and PTSD
80% Self Esteem
71% Grief
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
71% Premera Blue Cross
68% Regence

How Therapists in Port Townsend, WA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Port Townsend?

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.