Therapists in Highland Park, Seattle, WA

Photo of Jill A Forsberg, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CMHS, LMFT
Jill A Forsberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CMHS, LMFT
Highland Park, Seattle, WA 98106
I believe Success in therapy is built on the strengths you have within. Whether you are a young child, a teen an adult or a family, I will work with you to find those strengths and use them to find the change you are looking for. I work with individuals and families on issues ranging from depression and anxiety, behavior problems, school problems, and family conflict. I work with families with children of all ages. Whether working individually or with a family, I approach clinical issues from a systemic point of view.
I believe Success in therapy is built on the strengths you have within. Whether you are a young child, a teen an adult or a family, I will work with you to find those strengths and use them to find the change you are looking for. I work with individuals and families on issues ranging from depression and anxiety, behavior problems, school problems, and family conflict. I work with families with children of all ages. Whether working individually or with a family, I approach clinical issues from a systemic point of view.
(206) 745-4178 View (206) 745-4178
Photo of Joan Patrice Willemain - Joan Willemain, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Joan Willemain, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, Seattle, WA 98106
Hello! What wild times we're in! We could all use support these days. I know that you may be struggling, but have a vision of your best self or life that you want to be living. Right now there might be a gap between you and that reality. Maybe you've had some big changes derail your life. Maybe you are deep in grief. Maybe you have never felt understood, or suffered unspeakable trauma. You have a book to write and don't know where to begin. An adult son to launch, a career change. Overwhelmed. Disorganized. Excited. Depressed. On a rollercoaster. Unable to decide. I'm here for you. I have the skills, experience and energy you need.
Hello! What wild times we're in! We could all use support these days. I know that you may be struggling, but have a vision of your best self or life that you want to be living. Right now there might be a gap between you and that reality. Maybe you've had some big changes derail your life. Maybe you are deep in grief. Maybe you have never felt understood, or suffered unspeakable trauma. You have a book to write and don't know where to begin. An adult son to launch, a career change. Overwhelmed. Disorganized. Excited. Depressed. On a rollercoaster. Unable to decide. I'm here for you. I have the skills, experience and energy you need.
(360) 583-5480 View (360) 583-5480
Photo of Jessie Thuy Brooks-Janzen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jessie Thuy Brooks-Janzen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
As the partner affected by the addictive behavior of a loved one, you often find yourself asking what you can do to help them? You have tried many approaches, but none have been long-lasting. Your loved one's addictive behavior is unpredictable, and you are fearful it might get worse. You love your partner, but not their addictive behavior. Reaching out for help can be scary, as you want to be sure that you find a counselor that you can connect with and one that understands addictive behavior.
As the partner affected by the addictive behavior of a loved one, you often find yourself asking what you can do to help them? You have tried many approaches, but none have been long-lasting. Your loved one's addictive behavior is unpredictable, and you are fearful it might get worse. You love your partner, but not their addictive behavior. Reaching out for help can be scary, as you want to be sure that you find a counselor that you can connect with and one that understands addictive behavior.
(206) 717-8536 View (206) 717-8536
Photo of Robert F Hirsch - Hirsch Counseling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hirsch Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I've over 30 years experience helping couples and individuals with relationship issues, depression, sexual issues, including porn and sex addiction, and stress management. I have a holistic approach, helping clients examine what they do from when they awake to when they go to bed - what is helpful for their growth and well-being and what would be a better way to handle the challenges of their lives. Life is very challenging. It can be a hard school. Give yourself the gift of receiving compassionate, straightforward guidance.
I've over 30 years experience helping couples and individuals with relationship issues, depression, sexual issues, including porn and sex addiction, and stress management. I have a holistic approach, helping clients examine what they do from when they awake to when they go to bed - what is helpful for their growth and well-being and what would be a better way to handle the challenges of their lives. Life is very challenging. It can be a hard school. Give yourself the gift of receiving compassionate, straightforward guidance.
(844) 938-0994 View (844) 938-0994
Photo of Ryan David Kocourek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Ryan David Kocourek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Serves Area
At times we all find ourselves in periods of growth that can be challenging and confusing. Growth and change can be difficult but if troubling obstacles are removed, one can move towards a healthier, creative, vibrant life with a new sense of meaning and purpose. I tend to look at symptoms individuals are struggling with as guides showing the changes one needs to make in order to develop into their authentic, creative self. The work I do with client’s is often symbolic and includes dream work, creative expression, deep conversation, lessons from nature, and a deep relational connection that can foster authentic experience.
At times we all find ourselves in periods of growth that can be challenging and confusing. Growth and change can be difficult but if troubling obstacles are removed, one can move towards a healthier, creative, vibrant life with a new sense of meaning and purpose. I tend to look at symptoms individuals are struggling with as guides showing the changes one needs to make in order to develop into their authentic, creative self. The work I do with client’s is often symbolic and includes dream work, creative expression, deep conversation, lessons from nature, and a deep relational connection that can foster authentic experience.
(360) 594-5702 View (360) 594-5702
Photo of Caleb D Visser, Counselor, LMHC
Caleb D Visser
Counselor, LMHC
Serves Area
I work exclusively with adolescents and teens. I got my start 15 years ago in residential care in a local foster home. Since then I've worked in a handful of settings, always with young people. For the last 5 years I've been a full time therapist in a local high school while working a few hours a week in private practice.
I work exclusively with adolescents and teens. I got my start 15 years ago in residential care in a local foster home. Since then I've worked in a handful of settings, always with young people. For the last 5 years I've been a full time therapist in a local high school while working a few hours a week in private practice.
(206) 260-6100 View (206) 260-6100
Photo of Brandon Tripp - Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP, Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
(425) 230-4099 View (425) 230-4099
Photo of Jennifer Olson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP
Jennifer Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Your relationship started with excitement, shared dreams, and emotional closeness, but over time life's pressures resulted in feeling overwhelmed and burntout. When connection in partnership is interrupted or unattended, needs go unmet, are misunderstood, or ignored. I understand how these patterns can result in loneliness, despair, and hurt. If this sounds true, then together we will cultivate emotional stability and a sense of belonging by breaking free from negative cycles and repetitive relationship wounds. Let's turn the focus towards what is meaningful and take the bold steps to realign values and hearts to what is important.
Your relationship started with excitement, shared dreams, and emotional closeness, but over time life's pressures resulted in feeling overwhelmed and burntout. When connection in partnership is interrupted or unattended, needs go unmet, are misunderstood, or ignored. I understand how these patterns can result in loneliness, despair, and hurt. If this sounds true, then together we will cultivate emotional stability and a sense of belonging by breaking free from negative cycles and repetitive relationship wounds. Let's turn the focus towards what is meaningful and take the bold steps to realign values and hearts to what is important.
View
Photo of Chris Koch, Counselor, MDiv, MA/EdS, LMHCA
Chris Koch
Counselor, MDiv, MA/EdS, LMHCA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Seeking a counselor can be a daunting experience and I commend you for your courage in taking this step. I work primarily with couples, adults, teens, and adult families who desire to create space to work on areas of concern in their lives and relationships. I work with people to get to the ‘thing beneath the thing’ of what they are experiencing and struggling with as individuals, couples, and families so that they can move from minimizing, avoidance, self-contempt, etc.. towards a compassionate self-awareness, recovery, greater coping, balance in life, development of new understandings and skills, and thriving.
Seeking a counselor can be a daunting experience and I commend you for your courage in taking this step. I work primarily with couples, adults, teens, and adult families who desire to create space to work on areas of concern in their lives and relationships. I work with people to get to the ‘thing beneath the thing’ of what they are experiencing and struggling with as individuals, couples, and families so that they can move from minimizing, avoidance, self-contempt, etc.. towards a compassionate self-awareness, recovery, greater coping, balance in life, development of new understandings and skills, and thriving.
(425) 504-6364 View (425) 504-6364
Photo of Jeffrey Kiilsgaard - Humanistic Therapy NW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CSWA
Humanistic Therapy NW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CSWA
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Humanistic Therapy NW, we specialize in supporting adults, couples, and families navigating depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, neurodivergence, suicide, and questions of identity. Our team affirms and honors the diverse ways people choose to self-identify, with a deep commitment to serving the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Rooted in a clinical social work framework, we recognize that individuals are shaped by multiple systems—from family and community to broader societal structures. We are here to support you in understanding these influences and finding a path forward.
At Humanistic Therapy NW, we specialize in supporting adults, couples, and families navigating depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, neurodivergence, suicide, and questions of identity. Our team affirms and honors the diverse ways people choose to self-identify, with a deep commitment to serving the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Rooted in a clinical social work framework, we recognize that individuals are shaped by multiple systems—from family and community to broader societal structures. We are here to support you in understanding these influences and finding a path forward.
(503) 966-0355 View (503) 966-0355
Photo of Kelie Bryson, Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
Kelie Bryson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been feeling like it’s time to make a positive change? Are you tired of repeating the same patterns and getting the same results? As an EMDR-trained therapist, I help clients reprocess past experiences and transform them into stories of strength and resilience. Together, we’ll uncover the deeper roots driving your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so you can create meaningful, lasting change and step into the best version of yourself. For those seeking more focused and efficient healing, I also offer EMDR intensives designed to help resolve trauma more rapidly.
Have you been feeling like it’s time to make a positive change? Are you tired of repeating the same patterns and getting the same results? As an EMDR-trained therapist, I help clients reprocess past experiences and transform them into stories of strength and resilience. Together, we’ll uncover the deeper roots driving your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so you can create meaningful, lasting change and step into the best version of yourself. For those seeking more focused and efficient healing, I also offer EMDR intensives designed to help resolve trauma more rapidly.
(360) 392-5953 View (360) 392-5953
Photo of Benjamin R Dobbeck, Psychologist
Benjamin R Dobbeck
Psychologist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a psychologist who believes that if something isn't working, try something different! I try to create an atmosphere for growth that is warm, kind and challenging. I do my best to steer clear of "psychobabble" and offer tools for change that are easily understood and practical. Whether the issues are emotional, relational or social, you'll find a safe place to do the necessary work to grow.
I am a psychologist who believes that if something isn't working, try something different! I try to create an atmosphere for growth that is warm, kind and challenging. I do my best to steer clear of "psychobabble" and offer tools for change that are easily understood and practical. Whether the issues are emotional, relational or social, you'll find a safe place to do the necessary work to grow.
(206) 966-6924 View (206) 966-6924
Photo of Cristine Steele - Made Whole Counseling, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, DART
Made Whole Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, DART
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
You're an overwhelmed mom running on empty. The mental load never stops—you're managing everyone's schedules, needs, and emotions while losing yourself in the process. The burnout is crushing. You snap over small things because the big things (the inequality, the invisible labor) feel too overwhelming to name. Then comes the guilt. Your relationship feels strained. You're more like roommates than partners. Connection—emotional and physical seems impossible when you're this depleted. You want to feel like yourself again. You want your relationship to feel like partnership. You want tools that actually work. Something has to change.
You're an overwhelmed mom running on empty. The mental load never stops—you're managing everyone's schedules, needs, and emotions while losing yourself in the process. The burnout is crushing. You snap over small things because the big things (the inequality, the invisible labor) feel too overwhelming to name. Then comes the guilt. Your relationship feels strained. You're more like roommates than partners. Connection—emotional and physical seems impossible when you're this depleted. You want to feel like yourself again. You want your relationship to feel like partnership. You want tools that actually work. Something has to change.
(615) 640-4652 View (615) 640-4652
Photo of Khloe Clawson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Khloe Clawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals facing challenges with trauma, self-esteem, relationships, and long term, social, and transition-based anxiety. Additionally, I specialize in ADHD, OCD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB's). I provide a supportive environment for clients to practice skills designed to enhance personal, relational, and professional satisfaction.
I work with individuals facing challenges with trauma, self-esteem, relationships, and long term, social, and transition-based anxiety. Additionally, I specialize in ADHD, OCD and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB's). I provide a supportive environment for clients to practice skills designed to enhance personal, relational, and professional satisfaction.
(206) 829-6651 View (206) 829-6651
Photo of Dr. Kristen Strack, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Kristen Strack
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Upcoming openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Experiences, learning history, beliefs, culture, and values shape everyone and these are important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and areas for improvement, and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
Upcoming openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Experiences, learning history, beliefs, culture, and values shape everyone and these are important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and areas for improvement, and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
(206) 210-1385 View (206) 210-1385
Photo of Stephanie Stanton-Webb, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Stephanie Stanton-Webb
Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My belief is that we are all human trying to learn and grow in an ever changing environment. Change for some can be difficult to cope with and result in maladaptive coping skills and other mental health concerns when emotions overwhelm us. I believe that the therapy relationship should always be collaborative and I approach every individual differently to meet their needs with where they are in life. In the therapy process we will assess your different environments and relationships to help understand your current barriers you are seeking help with.
My belief is that we are all human trying to learn and grow in an ever changing environment. Change for some can be difficult to cope with and result in maladaptive coping skills and other mental health concerns when emotions overwhelm us. I believe that the therapy relationship should always be collaborative and I approach every individual differently to meet their needs with where they are in life. In the therapy process we will assess your different environments and relationships to help understand your current barriers you are seeking help with.
(206) 558-0128 View (206) 558-0128
Photo of Jacqueline E Smith, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Jacqueline E Smith
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you grew up caring for others before you were cared for, you likely became capable, empathic, and responsible early on. Now those same strengths may leave you depleted. Whether you’re a mother, caregiver, educator, therapist, or healthcare professional, you may feel trapped in responsibility. This work supports women and non-binary people ready for post-traumatic growth—to release old roles, trust inner knowing, and rediscover rest, play, and curiosity as essential to being alive.
If you grew up caring for others before you were cared for, you likely became capable, empathic, and responsible early on. Now those same strengths may leave you depleted. Whether you’re a mother, caregiver, educator, therapist, or healthcare professional, you may feel trapped in responsibility. This work supports women and non-binary people ready for post-traumatic growth—to release old roles, trust inner knowing, and rediscover rest, play, and curiosity as essential to being alive.
(206) 672-5196 View (206) 672-5196
Photo of Janna Conley, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate , LMHCA, CAP
Janna Conley
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate , LMHCA, CAP
Serves Area
Hello and welcome. We all get weighed down at times and need help sorting out and overcoming our life events, traumas, and relationship difficulties. My goal as a therapist is to help you sort through the muck and find your inner light again.
Hello and welcome. We all get weighed down at times and need help sorting out and overcoming our life events, traumas, and relationship difficulties. My goal as a therapist is to help you sort through the muck and find your inner light again.
(509) 401-8186 View (509) 401-8186
Photo of Jameela Muhammad - Jameela Muhammad - The Melanated Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Jameela Muhammad - The Melanated Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm Jameela Muhammad, founder of The Melanated Therapist. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or carrying the weight of things that were never yours to hold, you’re not alone. I created this practice for people like you who are ready to heal from generational wounds, life transitions, and everyday stress that too often goes unspoken, especially in minority communities. I work with adolescents and adults navigating trauma, relationships, and identity, and I aim to make therapy feel like a real, grounded conversation because healing doesn’t have to be clinical to be powerful.
I'm Jameela Muhammad, founder of The Melanated Therapist. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or carrying the weight of things that were never yours to hold, you’re not alone. I created this practice for people like you who are ready to heal from generational wounds, life transitions, and everyday stress that too often goes unspoken, especially in minority communities. I work with adolescents and adults navigating trauma, relationships, and identity, and I aim to make therapy feel like a real, grounded conversation because healing doesn’t have to be clinical to be powerful.
(253) 367-3866 View (253) 367-3866
Photo of David Goldman, Counselor, MS CMHC, MAEd, LMHC
David Goldman
Counselor, MS CMHC, MAEd, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
David works with clients to understand challenges, to develop specific goals, and to promote wellness using a variety of tools from therapeutic modalities including empathetic Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS - completed IFS Level 1), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). David draws from experience working with individuals and families as an educator, birth doula, Guardian ad Litem, mediator, and counselor. David is also approved by WA State to complete DVIT Domestic Violence Assessments and Treatment.
David works with clients to understand challenges, to develop specific goals, and to promote wellness using a variety of tools from therapeutic modalities including empathetic Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS - completed IFS Level 1), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). David draws from experience working with individuals and families as an educator, birth doula, Guardian ad Litem, mediator, and counselor. David is also approved by WA State to complete DVIT Domestic Violence Assessments and Treatment.
(360) 774-4078 View (360) 774-4078

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Highland Park, Seattle, WA

90+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Highland Park, Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
81% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
72% Stress
69% Life Transitions
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
66% Premera Blue Cross
63% Regence

How Therapists in Highland Park, Seattle, WA see their clients

62% Online Only
38% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

71% Female
27% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Highland Park, Seattle?

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.