Photo of Michelle Marie Wohlfert, LMSW, CAADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Marie Wohlfert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
There is no one more put together than a person in recovery. Living in recovery is working a program of mental health, staying clean and sober, and living one day at a time. With that being said, each person’s specific program looks different, with the common factor of living a balanced life of being grateful, mindful, spiritual, and finding a sense of community among other recovering individuals. My specialty areas are addictions, mental health, trauma, codependency issues, and how these affect you and those who love you.
There is no one more put together than a person in recovery. Living in recovery is working a program of mental health, staying clean and sober, and living one day at a time. With that being said, each person’s specific program looks different, with the common factor of living a balanced life of being grateful, mindful, spiritual, and finding a sense of community among other recovering individuals. My specialty areas are addictions, mental health, trauma, codependency issues, and how these affect you and those who love you.
(616) 404-3437 View (616) 404-3437
Photo of Chris Johnson, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
My work consists of providing a welcoming, profoundly non-judgmental atmosphere where one can experience the safety that human relationships may offer. I truly believe people first need the basics. We connect and flourish in therapy when provided with acceptance, respect and dignity in a non-shaming relationship. I take a holistic approach and incorporate foundational needs that are often overlooked. Sometimes the simplest solution may be most effective, while other situations may call for a deeper dive that will uncover a path to healing. Regardless, I leave the direction and pacing up to my clients to preserve autonomy.
My work consists of providing a welcoming, profoundly non-judgmental atmosphere where one can experience the safety that human relationships may offer. I truly believe people first need the basics. We connect and flourish in therapy when provided with acceptance, respect and dignity in a non-shaming relationship. I take a holistic approach and incorporate foundational needs that are often overlooked. Sometimes the simplest solution may be most effective, while other situations may call for a deeper dive that will uncover a path to healing. Regardless, I leave the direction and pacing up to my clients to preserve autonomy.
(616) 213-1722 View (616) 213-1722
Photo of Kevin Sleboda, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Sleboda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Life is filled with triumphs, hardships, and a whole lot of challenges. Sometimes we get overwhelmed and feel like there is too much to handle on our own. We all experience struggle with conflict at different points throughout life and I believe nobody should be forced to face these issues alone. My passion is to work with people as they strive to triumph over the challenges that life presents while dealing with hardships in a positive and healthy way. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable place to promote understanding and healing.
Life is filled with triumphs, hardships, and a whole lot of challenges. Sometimes we get overwhelmed and feel like there is too much to handle on our own. We all experience struggle with conflict at different points throughout life and I believe nobody should be forced to face these issues alone. My passion is to work with people as they strive to triumph over the challenges that life presents while dealing with hardships in a positive and healthy way. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable place to promote understanding and healing.
(616) 404-3581 View (616) 404-3581
Photo of Heather Duthler, LMSW, CAADC, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Duthler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
Verified Verified
Walker, MI 49534
I have years of experience working in West Michigan and am looking forward to working with you. Counseling can provide insight into anxiety, depression and stress. It can also help you navigate big decisions in your life. No matter what you are dealing with, I'm confident we can work together to find a solution. If unable to bill through insurance, I offer very reasonable self pay rates. Please call or message me to discuss. I apologize in advance, but I do not provide letters for emotional support animals (ESA's). Please note, I do not have any evening appointments available.
I have years of experience working in West Michigan and am looking forward to working with you. Counseling can provide insight into anxiety, depression and stress. It can also help you navigate big decisions in your life. No matter what you are dealing with, I'm confident we can work together to find a solution. If unable to bill through insurance, I offer very reasonable self pay rates. Please call or message me to discuss. I apologize in advance, but I do not provide letters for emotional support animals (ESA's). Please note, I do not have any evening appointments available.
(616) 512-0056 View (616) 512-0056
Photo of Hayley Stites, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hayley Stites
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Welcome! I’m so glad we’ve crossed paths. My name is Hayley and my pronouns are she/her/hers. I have my Master's degree in Social Work (LLMSW) from Grand Valley State University, where I also received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW). Because everyone’s journey is unique, I will meet you where you're at and walk alongside you to provide the support you seek and deserve. My therapeutic style is warm, validating, supportive, empowering, and person-centered. I truly believe that having a safe and validating space to share our truth is so healing.
Welcome! I’m so glad we’ve crossed paths. My name is Hayley and my pronouns are she/her/hers. I have my Master's degree in Social Work (LLMSW) from Grand Valley State University, where I also received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW). Because everyone’s journey is unique, I will meet you where you're at and walk alongside you to provide the support you seek and deserve. My therapeutic style is warm, validating, supportive, empowering, and person-centered. I truly believe that having a safe and validating space to share our truth is so healing.
(616) 300-1729 x1161 View (616) 300-1729 x1161
Photo of Melissa Polanco Nunez, LLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Polanco Nunez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534  (Online Only)
As a compassionate and approachable therapist, I believe in creating a warm and nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the understanding that every individual is unique, and I tailor my sessions to cater to the specific needs and personalities of each client.
As a compassionate and approachable therapist, I believe in creating a warm and nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the understanding that every individual is unique, and I tailor my sessions to cater to the specific needs and personalities of each client.
(616) 585-0420 View (616) 585-0420
Photo of Whitney Thiry, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Thiry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
i’m whitney, they/them, i'm trans, and i’m a therapist :) i hope to create space for safety, relationship, tears, vulnerability and joy. i believe we all have the power to heal, reconnect to our bodies, and listen to our whole being. my background is in play-based attachment therapy, and i'm seeing individuals 10+, families with children of any age, and partners/relationships. working with queer and trans people of all ages holds a special place in my heart. if you think we might be a good fit, i'd love to meet you! you can schedule through counselingcenterwm.org
i’m whitney, they/them, i'm trans, and i’m a therapist :) i hope to create space for safety, relationship, tears, vulnerability and joy. i believe we all have the power to heal, reconnect to our bodies, and listen to our whole being. my background is in play-based attachment therapy, and i'm seeing individuals 10+, families with children of any age, and partners/relationships. working with queer and trans people of all ages holds a special place in my heart. if you think we might be a good fit, i'd love to meet you! you can schedule through counselingcenterwm.org
(616) 805-3660 x1161 View (616) 805-3660 x1161
Photo of Kristen Edwards, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Not accepting new clients
"Some of us ran so far away, during a period of survival, that we forgot to come back home to ourselves. Return home to yourself. You are safe now." - Lalah Delia
"Some of us ran so far away, during a period of survival, that we forgot to come back home to ourselves. Return home to yourself. You are safe now." - Lalah Delia
(616) 577-8680 View (616) 577-8680
Photo of Matthew Laidlaw, MA, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Laidlaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
I serve as a companion to those who desire to experience healing, growth, and transformation in their pursuit of the full human experience. I work to offer a space of mutual, compassionate, and empathetic listening to the story your life is telling. I have experience primarily in individual work with adolescents and adults from all backgrounds and genders, in areas related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, identity exploration, finding belonging, discovering purpose, grief/loss, and religious and spiritual questions (and related trauma).
I serve as a companion to those who desire to experience healing, growth, and transformation in their pursuit of the full human experience. I work to offer a space of mutual, compassionate, and empathetic listening to the story your life is telling. I have experience primarily in individual work with adolescents and adults from all backgrounds and genders, in areas related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, identity exploration, finding belonging, discovering purpose, grief/loss, and religious and spiritual questions (and related trauma).
(616) 693-5489 View (616) 693-5489
Photo of Ananya Avinash, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ananya Avinash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
First off - I know it requires a unique type of energy and vulnerability to reach out. Thank you for giving yourself permission to do that! Maybe you’re experiencing self-doubt that makes it difficult to wake up every morning. Maybe you’re having trouble shaking off intrusive thoughts that are staying rent-free inside your head. Maybe you have the impression that your concerns aren’t important enough to talk about. Perhaps other people in your life just don’t “get it”. No matter what is happening, you absolutely deserve unconditional support.
First off - I know it requires a unique type of energy and vulnerability to reach out. Thank you for giving yourself permission to do that! Maybe you’re experiencing self-doubt that makes it difficult to wake up every morning. Maybe you’re having trouble shaking off intrusive thoughts that are staying rent-free inside your head. Maybe you have the impression that your concerns aren’t important enough to talk about. Perhaps other people in your life just don’t “get it”. No matter what is happening, you absolutely deserve unconditional support.
(616) 383-2882 View (616) 383-2882
Photo of Melissa Vander Kooi - Melissa Vander Kooi at Renewed Clarity Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Vander Kooi at Renewed Clarity Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
When I ask new clients to tell me something they like about themselves I often hear silence or the new client struggles to answer the question. When life feels overwhelming and burdensome it can become significantly difficult to remember our positive attributes. I promise you those positive qualities are there. Together we will identify your strengths and abilities to develop the coping skills necessary to overcome the challenges you are experiencing. I am dedicated in providing effective, confidential, and compassionate counseling care that meets the individual needs of my clients.
When I ask new clients to tell me something they like about themselves I often hear silence or the new client struggles to answer the question. When life feels overwhelming and burdensome it can become significantly difficult to remember our positive attributes. I promise you those positive qualities are there. Together we will identify your strengths and abilities to develop the coping skills necessary to overcome the challenges you are experiencing. I am dedicated in providing effective, confidential, and compassionate counseling care that meets the individual needs of my clients.
(616) 414-3092 View (616) 414-3092
Photo of Kyle Williams, LMSW, ACSW, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, Coach
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and nationally certified by NASW's Academy of Certified Social Workers as well as a certified MentorCoach. "I am a pragmatist with a knack for developing interpersonal power in others. With a practical and research-guided approach, I help families and individuals draw on their strengths and replicate successes, both small and large. I work with individuals, couples, multi-generational family systems, families with children - and I am trained and experienced in working with a wide variety of life issues."
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and nationally certified by NASW's Academy of Certified Social Workers as well as a certified MentorCoach. "I am a pragmatist with a knack for developing interpersonal power in others. With a practical and research-guided approach, I help families and individuals draw on their strengths and replicate successes, both small and large. I work with individuals, couples, multi-generational family systems, families with children - and I am trained and experienced in working with a wide variety of life issues."
(616) 374-2071 View (616) 374-2071
Photo of Kimberly Culp - Kimberly Culp Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Culp Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Difficult past? Chaotic present? Uncertain future? These are the questions that can plague us with anxiety and slowly take over our lives. You want relief from the constant worrying, or relief for your child who cannot stop worrying. You want freedom from the childhood experiences that, despite your best efforts, continue to impact your current life. You want to understand how to survive as an introvert in a world catering to extroverts. You want to find a way to communicate with a distant partner. You are in the right place and on your way to a better life.
Difficult past? Chaotic present? Uncertain future? These are the questions that can plague us with anxiety and slowly take over our lives. You want relief from the constant worrying, or relief for your child who cannot stop worrying. You want freedom from the childhood experiences that, despite your best efforts, continue to impact your current life. You want to understand how to survive as an introvert in a world catering to extroverts. You want to find a way to communicate with a distant partner. You are in the right place and on your way to a better life.
(616) 541-2891 View (616) 541-2891
Photo of Cindy L Kimball, LMSW, ACSW, ACHP-SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy L Kimball
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, ACHP-SW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
For over 30 years I have worked in West Michigan providing counseling, therapy, direction and supervision to adults and children. Each person's situation is unique and therefore requires a unique approach. In my counseling practice I emphasize building a trusting, safe, nonjudgmental and honest relationship with clients. Together we will identify issues, learn to understand them and find solutions to life's difficulties. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing painful situations and need help managing life's most difficult events including depression, anxiety, loss, phobias, trauma, and chronic illness.
For over 30 years I have worked in West Michigan providing counseling, therapy, direction and supervision to adults and children. Each person's situation is unique and therefore requires a unique approach. In my counseling practice I emphasize building a trusting, safe, nonjudgmental and honest relationship with clients. Together we will identify issues, learn to understand them and find solutions to life's difficulties. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing painful situations and need help managing life's most difficult events including depression, anxiety, loss, phobias, trauma, and chronic illness.
(616) 522-5780 View (616) 522-5780
Photo of Jeffrey Hollander, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Walker, MI 49534  (Online Only)
I work with adults primarily, but will accept ages 17 and 18. I focus on Substance Use Disorders and Co- Occurring Disorders and general Mental Health problems. I am skilled in Couples Therapy and in working with Co dependent spouses. I have experience with the prison system and work with Parolees and Probationers. I treat issues of Self Image, Self Esteem, and Anger Management skills as well as relationship difficulties. Please note that I am no longer with Northwest Counseling. I have joined Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. My personal web site is www.rationaltherapytechniques.com.
I work with adults primarily, but will accept ages 17 and 18. I focus on Substance Use Disorders and Co- Occurring Disorders and general Mental Health problems. I am skilled in Couples Therapy and in working with Co dependent spouses. I have experience with the prison system and work with Parolees and Probationers. I treat issues of Self Image, Self Esteem, and Anger Management skills as well as relationship difficulties. Please note that I am no longer with Northwest Counseling. I have joined Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. My personal web site is www.rationaltherapytechniques.com.
(616) 710-4391 View (616) 710-4391
Photo of Tracy Thompson, MA, LPC, Counselor
Tracy Thompson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walker, MI 49534
Tracy Thompson is the owner of the Family Therapy Place, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Tracy specializes in working with children and families who have discovered that life can be a tough journey. Tracy’s training and speciality is with children who have experienced developmental trauma, often due to neglect or abuse. Tracy has a strong belief and training in the experiences of attachment and works with families to rebuild and nurture attachments when they have been broken. Tracy also works with adult families that are working to manage and resolve conflict that has surfaced or created separation within the family.
Tracy Thompson is the owner of the Family Therapy Place, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Tracy specializes in working with children and families who have discovered that life can be a tough journey. Tracy’s training and speciality is with children who have experienced developmental trauma, often due to neglect or abuse. Tracy has a strong belief and training in the experiences of attachment and works with families to rebuild and nurture attachments when they have been broken. Tracy also works with adult families that are working to manage and resolve conflict that has surfaced or created separation within the family.
(616) 818-0933 View (616) 818-0933
Photo of Hillary Morgan, MA, LPC, Counselor
Hillary Morgan
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walker, MI 49534
Waitlist for new clients
Hillary believes that the foundation of counseling is a therapeutic relationship that offers a safe and comfortable environment. Sharing your story while experiencing acceptance helps to drive the therapeutic process and lay the foundation for real healing and growth. She believes counseling can be a place to explore your patterns, come to understand factors that contributed to your development, and find a balance between accepting yourself and changing patterns that are no longer serving you.
Hillary believes that the foundation of counseling is a therapeutic relationship that offers a safe and comfortable environment. Sharing your story while experiencing acceptance helps to drive the therapeutic process and lay the foundation for real healing and growth. She believes counseling can be a place to explore your patterns, come to understand factors that contributed to your development, and find a balance between accepting yourself and changing patterns that are no longer serving you.
(616) 201-1305 View (616) 201-1305
Photo of Trent Morell, MS, LLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trent Morell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
I work with primarily with couples, but also see families and individuals interested in systemic therapy. I work with clients interested in deepening their relationship, particularly in times of stress or entering a new period in their life. My clients are interested in growing their sense of self and their understanding of how they can function best in their romantic and familial relationships.
I work with primarily with couples, but also see families and individuals interested in systemic therapy. I work with clients interested in deepening their relationship, particularly in times of stress or entering a new period in their life. My clients are interested in growing their sense of self and their understanding of how they can function best in their romantic and familial relationships.
(616) 952-3030 View (616) 952-3030
Photo of Julie Ball, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Ball
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Safety, trust and empathy is the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. These features eventually become part of the catalyst to your growth. As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, our work together entails deep conversation about your thoughts, feelings, experiences and life story. I lead with compassion, curiosity and deep respect. Never losing sight of the honor it is to walk alongside you on your journey. I enjoy working with people seeking to better understand themselves while struggling with; anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression and relationship issues. I am particularly well versed in grief, loss, death and dying.
Safety, trust and empathy is the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. These features eventually become part of the catalyst to your growth. As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, our work together entails deep conversation about your thoughts, feelings, experiences and life story. I lead with compassion, curiosity and deep respect. Never losing sight of the honor it is to walk alongside you on your journey. I enjoy working with people seeking to better understand themselves while struggling with; anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression and relationship issues. I am particularly well versed in grief, loss, death and dying.
(616) 202-3846 View (616) 202-3846
Photo of Mariekie Parzuchowski, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariekie Parzuchowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49534  (Online Only)
If you have been struggling to cope with a life event or circumstance that you're looking for some extra assistance with, or you are simply looking for someone to talk through life with, I am here to walk alongside you. Each individual is an expert in their own experiences, and I am here to learn from you as much as I am here to listen to the challenges you're experiencing and introduce new healing practices.
If you have been struggling to cope with a life event or circumstance that you're looking for some extra assistance with, or you are simply looking for someone to talk through life with, I am here to walk alongside you. Each individual is an expert in their own experiences, and I am here to learn from you as much as I am here to listen to the challenges you're experiencing and introduce new healing practices.
(616) 303-5575 View (616) 303-5575
1

See more therapy options for 49534

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 49534

30+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in 49534 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
94% Depression
86% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
74% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Priority Health
74% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in 49534 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
33% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 49534?

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.