Photo of Dr. Jennifer S Sandoval - California Psychology, Couple and Sex Therapy, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
California Psychology, Couple and Sex Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
I'm an experienced Psychologist in private practice since 2002. I love working with couples, adults, teens and families. I believe it takes strength and courage to seek therapy and I work hard to help my clients reach their goals. I highly respect my clients' willingness to share their lives with me and I think of it as a privilege to work with them. I want to connect with my clients and I strive to help them create lasting change in their lives. I also believe therapy can be short term and still be very effective. I believe therapy should be affordable for EVERYONE and will work with clients to find a fee that is comfortable.
I'm an experienced Psychologist in private practice since 2002. I love working with couples, adults, teens and families. I believe it takes strength and courage to seek therapy and I work hard to help my clients reach their goals. I highly respect my clients' willingness to share their lives with me and I think of it as a privilege to work with them. I want to connect with my clients and I strive to help them create lasting change in their lives. I also believe therapy can be short term and still be very effective. I believe therapy should be affordable for EVERYONE and will work with clients to find a fee that is comfortable.
(424) 543-7988 View (424) 543-7988
Photo of Lauren N. Witbeck, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren N. Witbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
You are on the right path, in the right direction towards taking control of your health and well being. Together, we can continue to walk towards your future to find happiness and healing.
You are on the right path, in the right direction towards taking control of your health and well being. Together, we can continue to walk towards your future to find happiness and healing.
(760) 331-2394 View (760) 331-2394
Photo of Bridget Suzanne Kermorris, JD, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bridget Suzanne Kermorris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, JD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011
Searching for support during a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. My specialities are journeying with parents as they reconnect with and support their teens, treating complex PTSD, and supporting neurodivergent individuals as well as their partners and families.
Searching for support during a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. My specialities are journeying with parents as they reconnect with and support their teens, treating complex PTSD, and supporting neurodivergent individuals as well as their partners and families.
(760) 263-6048 View (760) 263-6048
Photo of Linda Stewart, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011
The frequent attempt to conceal mental pain increases the burden: it is easier to say, 'My tooth is aching,' than to say, 'My heart is broken.' C.S. Lewis If your heart is broken or hurting, you may benefit from therapy with me at Collaborative Therapy Center in Carlsbad, CA. You will experience a comforting space to confidentially share so that you can be cared for in your personal growth. It's more important than ever that you feel supported.
The frequent attempt to conceal mental pain increases the burden: it is easier to say, 'My tooth is aching,' than to say, 'My heart is broken.' C.S. Lewis If your heart is broken or hurting, you may benefit from therapy with me at Collaborative Therapy Center in Carlsbad, CA. You will experience a comforting space to confidentially share so that you can be cared for in your personal growth. It's more important than ever that you feel supported.
(619) 727-6394 View (619) 727-6394
Photo of Ashleigh Thomas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashleigh Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011
We all struggle at times, battling inner conflicts that can drain us. As an attachment-focused therapist, I believe we all long for connections—to others, ourselves, and life. It's natural to experience moments of disconnection, and sometimes, we just need a little help recognizing where it's coming from.
We all struggle at times, battling inner conflicts that can drain us. As an attachment-focused therapist, I believe we all long for connections—to others, ourselves, and life. It's natural to experience moments of disconnection, and sometimes, we just need a little help recognizing where it's coming from.
(442) 200-0819 View (442) 200-0819
Photo of Shannon Doty, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Doty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
I truly enjoy connecting with people, hearing their stories, and helping others find inner peace and balance in life. My role as your therapist is to help shed light on your strengths and resilience as you discover the empowerment that comes with sharing your story, exploring perspectives and creating your own path to move forward. The most important relationship you can invest in is the one you have with yourself. As a therapist, I understand that everyone’s experience of this world is different, and it is my intention to remain curious, open, and understanding of your experience of the world and the impact you can have.
I truly enjoy connecting with people, hearing their stories, and helping others find inner peace and balance in life. My role as your therapist is to help shed light on your strengths and resilience as you discover the empowerment that comes with sharing your story, exploring perspectives and creating your own path to move forward. The most important relationship you can invest in is the one you have with yourself. As a therapist, I understand that everyone’s experience of this world is different, and it is my intention to remain curious, open, and understanding of your experience of the world and the impact you can have.
(760) 465-0202 View (760) 465-0202
Photo of Linda Stewart - Collaborative Therapy Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Collaborative Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011
Have you experienced loss or are you preparing for the loss of someone or something dear to you? Are you responsible for family members that you care about, while also struggling with your own stress and needs? We help you to achieve goals that include: grieving the loss of a loved one, marriage, job, or season of life; improving communication with loved ones; recovering from professional and emotional burn-out; supporting couples as they age or adult children with aging parents; and we even help you to identify goals that you've had a hard time putting your finger on because there is so much else going on. You are our priority.
Have you experienced loss or are you preparing for the loss of someone or something dear to you? Are you responsible for family members that you care about, while also struggling with your own stress and needs? We help you to achieve goals that include: grieving the loss of a loved one, marriage, job, or season of life; improving communication with loved ones; recovering from professional and emotional burn-out; supporting couples as they age or adult children with aging parents; and we even help you to identify goals that you've had a hard time putting your finger on because there is so much else going on. You are our priority.
(760) 278-7082 View (760) 278-7082
Photo of Michele La Porte Downey, RN, MAC, LMFT, Master, Life, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele La Porte Downey
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, MAC, LMFT, Master, Life
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
I offer a unique outpatient program. I specialize in treating families that have been or are affected by Mood Disorders and Addictions. Assisting in understanding the system of healthcare today, I can educate people in their understanding of how to get the best treatment for themselves or their loved one. I use a 12 step based approach and am unique in that my entire practice is primarily intervention based. I have several price points for individual programs for families that are unique. I also have regular, ongoing recovery group therapy along with individual, couples, family and marriage therapy. Visit www.micheledowney.com.
I offer a unique outpatient program. I specialize in treating families that have been or are affected by Mood Disorders and Addictions. Assisting in understanding the system of healthcare today, I can educate people in their understanding of how to get the best treatment for themselves or their loved one. I use a 12 step based approach and am unique in that my entire practice is primarily intervention based. I have several price points for individual programs for families that are unique. I also have regular, ongoing recovery group therapy along with individual, couples, family and marriage therapy. Visit www.micheledowney.com.
(760) 203-4463 View (760) 203-4463
Photo of Dr. Chloe Green, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Chloe Green
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
CGreen Psychology, Inc offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychoeducational evaluations for ADHD and Learning Disabilities. Led by Dr. Green, a seasoned professional with expertise in the treatment of adults and adolescents dealing with Traumatic Brain Injury, and other Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. At CGreen Psychology Inc, the main objective is to empower clients by optimizing their physical, cognitive, and emotional functions, all while ensuring that interventions align with the client's personal goals.
CGreen Psychology, Inc offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychoeducational evaluations for ADHD and Learning Disabilities. Led by Dr. Green, a seasoned professional with expertise in the treatment of adults and adolescents dealing with Traumatic Brain Injury, and other Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. At CGreen Psychology Inc, the main objective is to empower clients by optimizing their physical, cognitive, and emotional functions, all while ensuring that interventions align with the client's personal goals.
(858) 330-0747 View (858) 330-0747
Photo of Amber Ansari, MPH, ASW
Amber Ansari
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MPH, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
As a provider, it is essential that my clients feel safe in expressing their needs. I achieve this by crafting a compassionate and empathetic space.
As a provider, it is essential that my clients feel safe in expressing their needs. I achieve this by crafting a compassionate and empathetic space.
(760) 437-1066 View (760) 437-1066
Photo of Andrea Bernard, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea Bernard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in the State of California since 1993, with over 35 years' experience. I work with a variety of populations, including adults and adolescents, couples, and families. I am certified in EMDR, a type of therapy that treats people who feel "stuck" in a particular area of their lives or those with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) following a traumatic experience. My office is easily accessible from Encinitas, Cardiff, Leucadia, La Costa, Olivenhain, Rancho Santa Fe, Vista, San Marcos, and Oceanside.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in the State of California since 1993, with over 35 years' experience. I work with a variety of populations, including adults and adolescents, couples, and families. I am certified in EMDR, a type of therapy that treats people who feel "stuck" in a particular area of their lives or those with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) following a traumatic experience. My office is easily accessible from Encinitas, Cardiff, Leucadia, La Costa, Olivenhain, Rancho Santa Fe, Vista, San Marcos, and Oceanside.
(760) 289-5503 View (760) 289-5503
Caitlin E. Mikulicich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
It’s been found that the most important factor for creating change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions and transmute pain into growth. I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a biopsychosocial-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups. I’ve used various research-based modalities including DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems/parts work, EMDR, and art therapy. Additionally, I am now offering KAP (Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) remotely.
It’s been found that the most important factor for creating change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions and transmute pain into growth. I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a biopsychosocial-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups. I’ve used various research-based modalities including DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems/parts work, EMDR, and art therapy. Additionally, I am now offering KAP (Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) remotely.
(619) 363-0325 View (619) 363-0325
Photo of Kendra Claire Wilhelm, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendra Claire Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
(619) 367-8413 View (619) 367-8413
Photo of Roxanne Davis Pratt, MS, LPCC, MPH
Roxanne Davis Pratt
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, MPH
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
I specialize in children, teens, young adults and parenting, with over 20 years of experience counseling this population. Issues addressed include: behavior issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, school issues, family issues, self-esteem, peer issues, weight and eating issues including emotional eating, stress eating and binge eating, special needs, mild autism, and clients living with chronic medical conditions. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, positive psychology, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, art & play modalities, and others. Counseling is tailored to clients' needs.
I specialize in children, teens, young adults and parenting, with over 20 years of experience counseling this population. Issues addressed include: behavior issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, school issues, family issues, self-esteem, peer issues, weight and eating issues including emotional eating, stress eating and binge eating, special needs, mild autism, and clients living with chronic medical conditions. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, positive psychology, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, art & play modalities, and others. Counseling is tailored to clients' needs.
(760) 687-9339 View (760) 687-9339
Photo of Jaclyn Chung, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaclyn Chung
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011
Do you feel stuck and disconnected to yourself and within your relationships? Do you repeat relationship patterns over and over again? Do you use self-sabotaging coping mechanisms to get by? Maybe you feel shame, self-doubt, and dissatisfaction in your life. Perhaps you look to others to feel and be okay, unsure of your ability to make wise decisions. What would it be like to trust yourself completely to know what you need and to be able thrive? It is possible to feel differently in the relationship with yourself and others. You can gain insight into your patterns, learn to offer yourself compassion, and feel safe inside your body.
Do you feel stuck and disconnected to yourself and within your relationships? Do you repeat relationship patterns over and over again? Do you use self-sabotaging coping mechanisms to get by? Maybe you feel shame, self-doubt, and dissatisfaction in your life. Perhaps you look to others to feel and be okay, unsure of your ability to make wise decisions. What would it be like to trust yourself completely to know what you need and to be able thrive? It is possible to feel differently in the relationship with yourself and others. You can gain insight into your patterns, learn to offer yourself compassion, and feel safe inside your body.
(442) 245-5143 View (442) 245-5143
Photo of Tamara R Savage, PhD, Psychologist
Tamara R Savage
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
I believe that understanding someone’s present world requires insight regarding the past and how it is impacting life now. Therapy can help you break out of old, maladaptive patterns of behavior that are not useful anymore while concurrently providing you concrete strategies for managing overwhelming feelings and challenges in the moment. Sometimes it’s difficult to even imagine your goals, understand what’s going wrong or think of solutions to overwhelming problems. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or just a general sense of dissatisfaction, therapy can help you grow and maximize your true potential.
I believe that understanding someone’s present world requires insight regarding the past and how it is impacting life now. Therapy can help you break out of old, maladaptive patterns of behavior that are not useful anymore while concurrently providing you concrete strategies for managing overwhelming feelings and challenges in the moment. Sometimes it’s difficult to even imagine your goals, understand what’s going wrong or think of solutions to overwhelming problems. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or just a general sense of dissatisfaction, therapy can help you grow and maximize your true potential.
(442) 200-1697 View (442) 200-1697
Photo of Amber Gayler, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amber Gayler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
I strive to create a safe, supportive space where my clients can explore their stories, feelings, and relational patterns without judgment. My approach is collaborative, empathetic, and tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual, couple, or family. I am deeply committed to helping my clients build stronger, more fulfilling connections with themselves and their loved ones.
I strive to create a safe, supportive space where my clients can explore their stories, feelings, and relational patterns without judgment. My approach is collaborative, empathetic, and tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual, couple, or family. I am deeply committed to helping my clients build stronger, more fulfilling connections with themselves and their loved ones.
(760) 465-0270 View (760) 465-0270
Photo of Michelle Bourgerie, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michelle Bourgerie
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
People can't tell how badly you're hurting on the inside. You might walk through your days with a smile on your face. You achieve at work or at home for the most part. People probably even comment on how well you're doing, and at how much you accomplish. But no one knows that you cry in private and are grieving your loved one so desperately. Sometimes you can't even cry when you want to, because you hide your grief most days, not feeling free to grieve unless you're alone. You know you need support, but it's hard to ask for help.
People can't tell how badly you're hurting on the inside. You might walk through your days with a smile on your face. You achieve at work or at home for the most part. People probably even comment on how well you're doing, and at how much you accomplish. But no one knows that you cry in private and are grieving your loved one so desperately. Sometimes you can't even cry when you want to, because you hide your grief most days, not feeling free to grieve unless you're alone. You know you need support, but it's hard to ask for help.
(760) 417-6817 View (760) 417-6817
Photo of Dr. Angela Ronan, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Angela Ronan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011
I specialize in EMDR intensive therapy. I believe in fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients feel empowered on their journey towards well-being. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, and I strive to create a safe and welcoming space where clients can feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their concerns. I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology in 2000, and have worked in multiple settings over my 25 year career.
I specialize in EMDR intensive therapy. I believe in fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients feel empowered on their journey towards well-being. I understand that seeking help can be challenging, and I strive to create a safe and welcoming space where clients can feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their concerns. I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology in 2000, and have worked in multiple settings over my 25 year career.
(760) 465-2986 View (760) 465-2986
Photo of Jennifer Leigh Bernhoft, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Leigh Bernhoft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
It is my belief that offering my clients a nonjudgemental, warm and safe platform is priority. I feel that safety with a clinician can facilitate comfortability, which lends to growth throughout the therapeutic process. I value building connections with my clients and offer an unconditional positive regard. I place initial focus on identification of contributing factors to symptoms and behaviors. Additional attention is placed on assimilation of healthy coping strategies and altering of maladaptive thoughts.
It is my belief that offering my clients a nonjudgemental, warm and safe platform is priority. I feel that safety with a clinician can facilitate comfortability, which lends to growth throughout the therapeutic process. I value building connections with my clients and offer an unconditional positive regard. I place initial focus on identification of contributing factors to symptoms and behaviors. Additional attention is placed on assimilation of healthy coping strategies and altering of maladaptive thoughts.
(424) 383-8426 View (424) 383-8426
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92011

100+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in 92011 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
77% Trauma and PTSD
66% Self Esteem
65% Stress
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth
46% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 92011 see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92011?

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.