Photo of Roberta Bensky, GPCC, ACC
Roberta Bensky
GPCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Need help navigating change? Looking for a safe space to address your challenges? Overworked and burnt out? I know that change isn't easy. I also know that NOT changing can be just as difficult.
Need help navigating change? Looking for a safe space to address your challenges? Overworked and burnt out? I know that change isn't easy. I also know that NOT changing can be just as difficult.
(202) 798-4452 View (202) 798-4452
Photo of Lynn Hamerling, PhD, Psychologist
Lynn Hamerling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, shame or perhaps even self-loathing? These feelings can make it extremely difficult to seek the very treatment which might offer relief and change. It can feel risky and sometimes exquisitely shameful to reveal oneself to a another person. I can help reduce your shame and make the therapeutic process more bearable and productive. Together we will look honestly and fully at your conflicts, strengths, relationships and experiences - in a manner that is gentle, yet steadfast; warm, yet serious; and attentive to you in all your individual complexity.
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, shame or perhaps even self-loathing? These feelings can make it extremely difficult to seek the very treatment which might offer relief and change. It can feel risky and sometimes exquisitely shameful to reveal oneself to a another person. I can help reduce your shame and make the therapeutic process more bearable and productive. Together we will look honestly and fully at your conflicts, strengths, relationships and experiences - in a manner that is gentle, yet steadfast; warm, yet serious; and attentive to you in all your individual complexity.
(202) 722-1507 View (202) 722-1507
Photo of Yvany Peery, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvany Peery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Do you struggle with disturbing memories, nightmares or flashbacks? Have you experienced a childhood trauma? Are you the victim of sexual abuse or assault? A past or current trauma can significantly impact your life, but it doesn't have to dominate your life. I specialize in helping those who have experienced trauma, including those with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), complex trauma and grief/loss. I also work with clients of color and those from different cultures, as they navigate their unique challenges. For more than 10 years, I've helped hundreds of people regain a sense of control and ease over their lives.
Do you struggle with disturbing memories, nightmares or flashbacks? Have you experienced a childhood trauma? Are you the victim of sexual abuse or assault? A past or current trauma can significantly impact your life, but it doesn't have to dominate your life. I specialize in helping those who have experienced trauma, including those with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), complex trauma and grief/loss. I also work with clients of color and those from different cultures, as they navigate their unique challenges. For more than 10 years, I've helped hundreds of people regain a sense of control and ease over their lives.
(833) 453-1287 View (833) 453-1287
Photo of Stephanie L Brown, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephanie L Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
As a marriage and family therapist in training, I work with adolescents, young adults, adults, and families with issues including grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship concerns.
As a marriage and family therapist in training, I work with adolescents, young adults, adults, and families with issues including grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship concerns.
(202) 951-8089 View (202) 951-8089
Photo of Laurel Tobias, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurel Tobias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I specialize in child and adolescent treatment, parent work, and college transitions. I provide individual and family support for a range of different mental healthcare needs: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depression, Trauma, adjustment/life transitions, behavioral concerns, learning disabilties, social skills, and emotion regulation questions and issues. Many children/adolescents have a deep desire to be heard and understood and I am here to listen, support, and provide them with appropriate tools.
I specialize in child and adolescent treatment, parent work, and college transitions. I provide individual and family support for a range of different mental healthcare needs: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depression, Trauma, adjustment/life transitions, behavioral concerns, learning disabilties, social skills, and emotion regulation questions and issues. Many children/adolescents have a deep desire to be heard and understood and I am here to listen, support, and provide them with appropriate tools.
(844) 387-5544 x719 View (844) 387-5544 x719
Photo of Ernest Wallwork, PhD, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Ernest Wallwork
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I see patients suffering from anxiety, depression, self-destructive patterns, relationship issues, sexual difficulties, identity, adjustment problems in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couple's counseling. My aim is to relieve mental distress and interpersonal conflict by deepening self-understanding and self-control. After 36 years in practice, my clinical experience is broad and deep. My reputation and publications on relational, religious and ethical topics sometimes attracts patients with these difficulties. A graduate of Harvard University (MBA,PhD) and Washington Psychoanalytic Institute, I practice in Washington, DC.
I see patients suffering from anxiety, depression, self-destructive patterns, relationship issues, sexual difficulties, identity, adjustment problems in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couple's counseling. My aim is to relieve mental distress and interpersonal conflict by deepening self-understanding and self-control. After 36 years in practice, my clinical experience is broad and deep. My reputation and publications on relational, religious and ethical topics sometimes attracts patients with these difficulties. A graduate of Harvard University (MBA,PhD) and Washington Psychoanalytic Institute, I practice in Washington, DC.
(202) 759-7949 View (202) 759-7949
Photo of Hayley Gould, LPC, MS/EdS, Counselor
Hayley Gould
Counselor, LPC, MS/EdS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Eating disorders can be all encompassing and can start to take over so many different aspects of your life. It becomes hard to do anything without hearing the eating disorder’s disapproving voice in your head making comments about your food intake, your body, and most painfully, who you are as a person. This voice is not you. We can work together to help you fight back and regain your identity. You do not need to have an eating disorder for us to work together, I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, trauma, relationships, and identity.
Eating disorders can be all encompassing and can start to take over so many different aspects of your life. It becomes hard to do anything without hearing the eating disorder’s disapproving voice in your head making comments about your food intake, your body, and most painfully, who you are as a person. This voice is not you. We can work together to help you fight back and regain your identity. You do not need to have an eating disorder for us to work together, I also work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, trauma, relationships, and identity.
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Photo of John Russell Stanger, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Russell Stanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I create collaborative partnerships with individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. In a warm and supportive environment, I work with clients to explore obstacles, consider alternative perspectives, and discover inner strengths. Whether you're navigating personal anxieties, navigating tricky relationship dynamics, or facing major life transitions, I offer compassion and evidence-based approaches as you ignite your courage to make empowered choices towards thriving. In particular, I have extensive experience supporting LGBTQ+ individuals through the joys and uncertainties of self-discovery.
I create collaborative partnerships with individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. In a warm and supportive environment, I work with clients to explore obstacles, consider alternative perspectives, and discover inner strengths. Whether you're navigating personal anxieties, navigating tricky relationship dynamics, or facing major life transitions, I offer compassion and evidence-based approaches as you ignite your courage to make empowered choices towards thriving. In particular, I have extensive experience supporting LGBTQ+ individuals through the joys and uncertainties of self-discovery.
(202) 972-4487 View (202) 972-4487
Photo of Jeffrey Jay, PhD, Psychologist
Jeffrey Jay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
In therapy, the focus inevitably turns to the balance between self and others. Being responsible for one's own needs while being responsive to others, whether in a relationship, school, or at work is a dynamic, and sometimes confounding, process. How do you find that balance, being true to oneself and a truely caring person? That's the work of therapy. I work with individuals, couples, families, and students. I have a recognized expertise with severe psychological trauma, depression, anxiety, and marital problems including infidelities. I am proud to have been twice highly recommended by Washingtonian Magazine.
In therapy, the focus inevitably turns to the balance between self and others. Being responsible for one's own needs while being responsive to others, whether in a relationship, school, or at work is a dynamic, and sometimes confounding, process. How do you find that balance, being true to oneself and a truely caring person? That's the work of therapy. I work with individuals, couples, families, and students. I have a recognized expertise with severe psychological trauma, depression, anxiety, and marital problems including infidelities. I am proud to have been twice highly recommended by Washingtonian Magazine.
(202) 688-5479 View (202) 688-5479
Photo of Dr. Emily Green, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Emily Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
As a clinician, I am focused on helping clients find a life of meaning and value. Often times in our pain there is incredibly useful information about what is important to us. As humans, we have evolved to move away from physical pain, to escape it: and for most types of pain, those methods work! But for emotional pain, avoidance not only doesn’t get rid of our pain and suffering, it often amplifies it. In discovering how each individual client finds meaning in their lives, we ground ourselves in the willingness to walk toward our pain, rather than away from it. It is in this space that we find healing and meaningful change.
As a clinician, I am focused on helping clients find a life of meaning and value. Often times in our pain there is incredibly useful information about what is important to us. As humans, we have evolved to move away from physical pain, to escape it: and for most types of pain, those methods work! But for emotional pain, avoidance not only doesn’t get rid of our pain and suffering, it often amplifies it. In discovering how each individual client finds meaning in their lives, we ground ourselves in the willingness to walk toward our pain, rather than away from it. It is in this space that we find healing and meaningful change.
(202) 831-9830 View (202) 831-9830
Photo of Marjorie de Veer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marjorie de Veer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Are you a former ex-pat having a hard time adjusting to life back in the U.S.? Do you struggle with ADHD or issues related to trauma? Is grief dominating your life? As a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of clients regain a sense of control and ease over their lives. Cultural adjustments can be stressful, no matter where you're living. I have a deep understanding and sensitivity of the ex-pat experience, with all of its joys and challenges, having spent 10 years overseas, providing counseling to American expatriates, in Hanoi, Vietnam, and Bogota, Colombia.
Are you a former ex-pat having a hard time adjusting to life back in the U.S.? Do you struggle with ADHD or issues related to trauma? Is grief dominating your life? As a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of clients regain a sense of control and ease over their lives. Cultural adjustments can be stressful, no matter where you're living. I have a deep understanding and sensitivity of the ex-pat experience, with all of its joys and challenges, having spent 10 years overseas, providing counseling to American expatriates, in Hanoi, Vietnam, and Bogota, Colombia.
(202) 933-3775 View (202) 933-3775
Photo of Giselle Ruzany, PhD, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Giselle Ruzany
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
(703) 468-8906 View (703) 468-8906
Photo of Grace Riddell - LGBTQ Counseling
LGBTQ Counseling
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Gay? Lesbian? Bi? Trans? Need help coming out? If you need an LGBTQ counselor or psychotherapist who truly understands and respects your feelings and experiences, we can help. LGBTQ Counseling is a highly experienced group of lesbian, gay and bi mental health professionals dedicated to meeting the psychological needs of our diverse LGBTQ+ community. We understand the stress of navigating and choosing the right psychotherapy and counseling techniques. Working together, we will develop a care plan for you to help you achieve your personal goals and become the most authentic version of yourself.
Gay? Lesbian? Bi? Trans? Need help coming out? If you need an LGBTQ counselor or psychotherapist who truly understands and respects your feelings and experiences, we can help. LGBTQ Counseling is a highly experienced group of lesbian, gay and bi mental health professionals dedicated to meeting the psychological needs of our diverse LGBTQ+ community. We understand the stress of navigating and choosing the right psychotherapy and counseling techniques. Working together, we will develop a care plan for you to help you achieve your personal goals and become the most authentic version of yourself.
(202) 319-8541 View (202) 319-8541
Photo of Diane Reis, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist
Diane Reis
Psychologist, PsyD, PLLC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
(202) 738-5745 View (202) 738-5745
Photo of Deborah J Fox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah J Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me. We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
'We used to have such fun together; how can we get that back?" is a question many people have who come to see me. We all need help at one point or another in our lives. Seeking help for relationship struggles, sexual problems, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling depressed or 'stuck', is a great step forward towards feeling better. I've been practicing for 30 years, with expertise in helping people enjoy their relationships and lives again. I see people individually, in couples and in groups.
(202) 656-7984 View (202) 656-7984
Photo of Keri Sartin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keri Sartin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
(202) 519-4927 View (202) 519-4927
Photo of Judith A. Marx, PhD, Psychologist
Judith A. Marx
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Waitlist for new clients
Psychotherapy is a process of rebalancing yourself. When something is awry in your life-in relationships, career, emotion, health-your life loses its equilibrium. But as we construct your story in the safety of the therapeutic dialogue, we discover themes and patterns that help you articulate who you really are and what you truly want in your life.
Psychotherapy is a process of rebalancing yourself. When something is awry in your life-in relationships, career, emotion, health-your life loses its equilibrium. But as we construct your story in the safety of the therapeutic dialogue, we discover themes and patterns that help you articulate who you really are and what you truly want in your life.
(202) 681-6962 View (202) 681-6962
Photo of Miranda Jean, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
(833) 559-3151 View (833) 559-3151
Photo of Sheri A Rosenfeld, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheri A Rosenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I am a client-centered therapist whose speciality is couple and family work . I am attachment and psychodynamically trained but as a dancer I also use the body signals as information to guide me towards creating a workable creative partnership and family unit . I work with the language we use in our relationships and our past family interactions to guide us toward a workable and balanced way of living in partnership with others . My training in trauma, anxiety, sexual concerns guide my work with my patients .
I am a client-centered therapist whose speciality is couple and family work . I am attachment and psychodynamically trained but as a dancer I also use the body signals as information to guide me towards creating a workable creative partnership and family unit . I work with the language we use in our relationships and our past family interactions to guide us toward a workable and balanced way of living in partnership with others . My training in trauma, anxiety, sexual concerns guide my work with my patients .
(202) 335-3907 View (202) 335-3907
Photo of Erin Elizabeth McCarthy, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Elizabeth McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
People of all ages and walks of life have felt comfortable opening up in my presence, and many find our work together to be the foundation and structure for new areas of self knowledge and profound emotional growth. I connect with people that are in pain or who have been hurt, people that are confused, overwhelmed or just feeling bad. Through our work, we will facilitate a stronger sense of who you are and a greater ability for relational engagement -- discovering and building a full, desired life. I balance softness and smiles with challenge, deep curiosity and playfulness.
People of all ages and walks of life have felt comfortable opening up in my presence, and many find our work together to be the foundation and structure for new areas of self knowledge and profound emotional growth. I connect with people that are in pain or who have been hurt, people that are confused, overwhelmed or just feeling bad. Through our work, we will facilitate a stronger sense of who you are and a greater ability for relational engagement -- discovering and building a full, desired life. I balance softness and smiles with challenge, deep curiosity and playfulness.
(202) 796-7585 View (202) 796-7585
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20008

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 20008 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
82% Self Esteem
69% Life Transitions
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

57% BlueCross and BlueShield
54% CareFirst
37% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 20008 see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20008?

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.