Photo of Mia Teehan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mia Teehan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
I strive to accompany each client on their journey to a place of personal freedom that allows for deeper healing, developing meaning-making, and trusting relationships. I am passionate about cultivating a space where individuals, couples, and families feel heard and understood in the therapy room.
I strive to accompany each client on their journey to a place of personal freedom that allows for deeper healing, developing meaning-making, and trusting relationships. I am passionate about cultivating a space where individuals, couples, and families feel heard and understood in the therapy room.
(309) 869-7790 View (309) 869-7790
Photo of Leslie Perera, AMFT, CSAT-C, EMDR, ERCEM, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Perera
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, CSAT-C, EMDR, ERCEM
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Finding it hard to transition to civilian life? Grappling with your new unfolding reality? Troubled by memories of your experience in the service?” Feel drained by thoughts you just can’t shut off? No one understands the emptiness, turmoil, and lack of structure you are facing? Turned to alcohol, drugs, or other addictions to cope? If you served in the military, law enforcement, or first responder or have a loved one suffering from trauma, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Anger Issues, or marital difficulties, I can help! During my 20 years of military service, I have experienced extended deployments, combat action, and led commands.
Finding it hard to transition to civilian life? Grappling with your new unfolding reality? Troubled by memories of your experience in the service?” Feel drained by thoughts you just can’t shut off? No one understands the emptiness, turmoil, and lack of structure you are facing? Turned to alcohol, drugs, or other addictions to cope? If you served in the military, law enforcement, or first responder or have a loved one suffering from trauma, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Anger Issues, or marital difficulties, I can help! During my 20 years of military service, I have experienced extended deployments, combat action, and led commands.
(309) 245-3869 View (309) 245-3869
Photo of Michelle Krieger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Krieger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Body-image concerns, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties impact our ability to grasp the life we long for. Simple pleasures such as enjoying time with friends, celebrating special moments, going out for dinner, hanging out with peers, or feeling connected to our partner can be a daunting or impossible prospect. Stepping into therapy can feel just as daunting, but it can be the beginning of grasping the life you deserve. I have worked with adolescents, teens, and adults to strengthen recovery from their eating disorder, improve body image, heal trauma, and strengthen relationships.
Body-image concerns, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties impact our ability to grasp the life we long for. Simple pleasures such as enjoying time with friends, celebrating special moments, going out for dinner, hanging out with peers, or feeling connected to our partner can be a daunting or impossible prospect. Stepping into therapy can feel just as daunting, but it can be the beginning of grasping the life you deserve. I have worked with adolescents, teens, and adults to strengthen recovery from their eating disorder, improve body image, heal trauma, and strengthen relationships.
(309) 760-6835 View (309) 760-6835
Photo of Amy Fischer, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Fischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Waitlist for new clients
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
(309) 247-8323 View (309) 247-8323
Photo of Brandon Hovey, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Brandon Hovey
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
As a therapy client myself, I can tell you it takes courage to find a therapist. Life is not neat and tidy. We all need help. Not judgement, not lectures, not hearing people say ‘learn to cope.’ Healing is not a linear journey, it’s a process. I can be your partner in that process. You are the expert of your life! I’m a sounding board to help you find the solutions within! This is the case regardless of whether are dealing with depression, anxiety, communication issues, trauma, or grief.
As a therapy client myself, I can tell you it takes courage to find a therapist. Life is not neat and tidy. We all need help. Not judgement, not lectures, not hearing people say ‘learn to cope.’ Healing is not a linear journey, it’s a process. I can be your partner in that process. You are the expert of your life! I’m a sounding board to help you find the solutions within! This is the case regardless of whether are dealing with depression, anxiety, communication issues, trauma, or grief.
(309) 893-1633 x126 View (309) 893-1633 x126
Photo of Lori Bushell, LCPC, CSAT, CMAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Bushell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
(309) 517-5081 View (309) 517-5081
Photo of Kendra Belk, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Kendra Belk
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.
"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.
(309) 250-3566 View (309) 250-3566
Photo of Melissa Shane - Healing Hearts Counseling, LCPC
Healing Hearts Counseling
LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
At Healing Hearts Counseling, we are a licensed and trained team of caring professionals who are dedicated to giving you the best care possible. We value your time and we respect your needs. In fact, we really listen! What we bring to the "therapy couch" is experience in treating a multitude of mental health issues along with lots and lots of training. Whether you are aged 4, 14 or 41, we are here and we are ready to tackle hard issues with you. At Healing Hearts Counseling, we understand and are honored to partner with you in changing thought and behavior patterns that have kept you unhappy and stuck.
At Healing Hearts Counseling, we are a licensed and trained team of caring professionals who are dedicated to giving you the best care possible. We value your time and we respect your needs. In fact, we really listen! What we bring to the "therapy couch" is experience in treating a multitude of mental health issues along with lots and lots of training. Whether you are aged 4, 14 or 41, we are here and we are ready to tackle hard issues with you. At Healing Hearts Counseling, we understand and are honored to partner with you in changing thought and behavior patterns that have kept you unhappy and stuck.
(309) 276-0596 View (309) 276-0596
Photo of Kodjo Anahlui, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kodjo Anahlui
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Being from Togo and living and working in many countries, I am deeply aware of how our cultures and life events affect our mental health.
Being from Togo and living and working in many countries, I am deeply aware of how our cultures and life events affect our mental health.
(217) 677-4236 View (217) 677-4236
Photo of Norma Venable - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LCPC, Counselor
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
(224) 302-4846 View (224) 302-4846
Photo of Susan Johnson, LCSW, HLC, CIMHP, RMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, HLC, CIMHP, RMT
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Not accepting new clients
I am an Integrative Holistic Psychotherapist focused on Wellness, Healthy Lifestyle, & Stress Reduction/Management using traditional, as well as complimentary & alternative methods, including HeartMath®. I work with high functioning adults and offer a supportive, informal, comfortable & non-judgmental environment. I honor the whole person & build on a client's strengths considering all of the circumstances affecting them. My goal is to help my clients build the insights & skills that bring them lasting success in attaining their goals and the healthy lifestyle that hedges on the side of wellness for a lifetime.
I am an Integrative Holistic Psychotherapist focused on Wellness, Healthy Lifestyle, & Stress Reduction/Management using traditional, as well as complimentary & alternative methods, including HeartMath®. I work with high functioning adults and offer a supportive, informal, comfortable & non-judgmental environment. I honor the whole person & build on a client's strengths considering all of the circumstances affecting them. My goal is to help my clients build the insights & skills that bring them lasting success in attaining their goals and the healthy lifestyle that hedges on the side of wellness for a lifetime.
View
Photo of Alyssa Hoey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Hoey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Deciding to start therapy is a brave, difficult decision! You may find you are in a situation where you feel like you are stuck, have no where to turn, or are navigating some of the most difficult times of your life. I find that people are looking to be heard, to feel safe, and to find support. Having the experience of being listened to, of being validated, and being supported can be the beginning of the process of healing. I work to create a warm, safe, and open therapeutic space for you to bring any emotion you may be feeling. Together, we can navigate the challenges you are facing and work towards your path to healing.
Deciding to start therapy is a brave, difficult decision! You may find you are in a situation where you feel like you are stuck, have no where to turn, or are navigating some of the most difficult times of your life. I find that people are looking to be heard, to feel safe, and to find support. Having the experience of being listened to, of being validated, and being supported can be the beginning of the process of healing. I work to create a warm, safe, and open therapeutic space for you to bring any emotion you may be feeling. Together, we can navigate the challenges you are facing and work towards your path to healing.
(309) 248-6281 View (309) 248-6281
Photo of Raymond Baker - Dr. Raymond Baker, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Raymond Baker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
I was fortunate to have received outstanding academic training as well as exceptional clinical and research opportunities (Northwestern University Medical School; University of Chicago Hospitals) that helped me develop a unique skill-set and expertise to help patients resolve a wide variety of difficulties that inhibit them from functioning at their optimal levels of emotional health and wellness. My clinical practice is empirically (research) based. This "best practice“ approach incorporates the latest empirically-based research findings from the fields of clinical psychology, health psychology and behavioral medicine.
I was fortunate to have received outstanding academic training as well as exceptional clinical and research opportunities (Northwestern University Medical School; University of Chicago Hospitals) that helped me develop a unique skill-set and expertise to help patients resolve a wide variety of difficulties that inhibit them from functioning at their optimal levels of emotional health and wellness. My clinical practice is empirically (research) based. This "best practice“ approach incorporates the latest empirically-based research findings from the fields of clinical psychology, health psychology and behavioral medicine.
(309) 539-4167 View (309) 539-4167
Photo of Shauna Summers, LCPC, NCC, MS, MA, Counselor
Shauna Summers
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, I work to create a safe space where you can feel heard, understood, and validated. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals, improve their relationships, and enhance their overall well-being. We often look to the past to identify our core beliefs that guide our current worldview, priorities, and decision making. We have been learning these "core beliefs" about ourselves and the world since before we could walk and sometimes we stop integrating new observations and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, I work to create a safe space where you can feel heard, understood, and validated. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals, improve their relationships, and enhance their overall well-being. We often look to the past to identify our core beliefs that guide our current worldview, priorities, and decision making. We have been learning these "core beliefs" about ourselves and the world since before we could walk and sometimes we stop integrating new observations and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
(309) 396-6090 View (309) 396-6090
Photo of Edye Stolz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edye Stolz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
I use an integrative and holistic approach to mental health and wellness, adjusting therapy based on client needs. My work focuses on adults addressing concerns with stress, anxiety, depression, life stages and changes, trauma, grief, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and relationship concerns. I am a cancer survivor and keenly aware of the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatments and I strive to help others manage these challenges.
I use an integrative and holistic approach to mental health and wellness, adjusting therapy based on client needs. My work focuses on adults addressing concerns with stress, anxiety, depression, life stages and changes, trauma, grief, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and relationship concerns. I am a cancer survivor and keenly aware of the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatments and I strive to help others manage these challenges.
(309) 790-3954 View (309) 790-3954
Photo of Queena Howard, LCPC, Counselor
Queena Howard
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from Bradley University and have been practicing for +20 years.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from Bradley University and have been practicing for +20 years.
(309) 727-8758 View (309) 727-8758
Photo of Sharon Mindock - Mindock Counseling and Consulting, MS, LCPC, LSW, Counselor
Mindock Counseling and Consulting
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Do you long for more peace? Is your life in chaos? Do social situations make you anxious? Do you have racing thoughts that keep you awake?​ What is your vision of a therapist? Is it like the ones you see on TV or in the movies? Often these therapists smile and nod, but they don’t really seem to help their clients. Well, I am not one of those therapists! I decided to become a different sort of therapist. I will share in your struggles and in your successes. I will give you proven tools and holistic strategies to help you be the person you know you can be. Working with me, will help you put the pieces of your life back together.
Do you long for more peace? Is your life in chaos? Do social situations make you anxious? Do you have racing thoughts that keep you awake?​ What is your vision of a therapist? Is it like the ones you see on TV or in the movies? Often these therapists smile and nod, but they don’t really seem to help their clients. Well, I am not one of those therapists! I decided to become a different sort of therapist. I will share in your struggles and in your successes. I will give you proven tools and holistic strategies to help you be the person you know you can be. Working with me, will help you put the pieces of your life back together.
(309) 228-4086 View (309) 228-4086
Photo of Venus Evans-Winters, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Venus Evans-Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CCTP, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma expert, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g., cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip-hop generation, she helps clients from diverse backgrounds cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers on culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a significant influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
Dr. Venus Evans-Winters is a licensed clinical social worker, trauma expert, and professor. She draws upon multiple therapeutic and psychoeducational techniques (e.g., cognitive, dialectical, and reality therapies) to meet clients' mental health and socio-emotional needs. A native of Chicago and representative of the hip-hop generation, she helps clients from diverse backgrounds cope with chronic stress and trauma. Her practice is influenced by Adlerian theory and centers on culturally responsive approaches to practice because we know that culture is a significant influence on one's perception of stress and self-efficacy.
(309) 362-0501 View (309) 362-0501
Photo of Sandi Cross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandi Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I have spent my adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals while confronting the struggles along the way. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life, include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger management, and low self-esteem, I can help navigate these challenges and assist you with building effective skills. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults with a focus on anxiety, self-esteem, and behavioral concerns.
Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I have spent my adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals while confronting the struggles along the way. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life, include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger management, and low self-esteem, I can help navigate these challenges and assist you with building effective skills. I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults with a focus on anxiety, self-esteem, and behavioral concerns.
(224) 263-4763 View (224) 263-4763
Photo of Melissa McAuley, LSW
Melissa McAuley
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Are you tired of trying to hold it all together? Have you turned to alcohol, drugs, porn, or unhealthy sexual behaviors to cope? Are friends and family increasingly concerned? Are you fighting more with your partner or loved ones, blowing up in anger or simply avoiding conflict? Are consequences piling up in relationships, at home, work, or school? Or are you watching as this becomes the reality for a loved one? I am profoundly aware of the toll substances and addictive behaviors can take on individuals and families from my 7 yrs experience in addiction treatment. Therapy is a great place to start if you are looking for a change.
Are you tired of trying to hold it all together? Have you turned to alcohol, drugs, porn, or unhealthy sexual behaviors to cope? Are friends and family increasingly concerned? Are you fighting more with your partner or loved ones, blowing up in anger or simply avoiding conflict? Are consequences piling up in relationships, at home, work, or school? Or are you watching as this becomes the reality for a loved one? I am profoundly aware of the toll substances and addictive behaviors can take on individuals and families from my 7 yrs experience in addiction treatment. Therapy is a great place to start if you are looking for a change.
(309) 388-3115 View (309) 388-3115
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 61615

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 61615 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
68% Coping Skills
67% Trauma and PTSD
64% Grief
63% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 61615 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 61615?

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.