Photo of Lisa Pepper-Satkin, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Pepper-Satkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
Lisa Pepper-Satkin, MA, MFT is an Executive Therapeutic Coach helping high-achieving leaders actualize BIG visions. She is also a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator. Lisa uniquely integrates 25+ years’ experience as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Entrepreneur, fusing these disciplines in a unique approach she calls Executive Therapeutic Coaching. She assists the client in recognizing what personal blocks and entrenched behaviors are preventing them from achieving optimal results by creating a safe pathway to explore what is getting in their way. She combines these skills to guide highly committed people.
Lisa Pepper-Satkin, MA, MFT is an Executive Therapeutic Coach helping high-achieving leaders actualize BIG visions. She is also a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator. Lisa uniquely integrates 25+ years’ experience as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Entrepreneur, fusing these disciplines in a unique approach she calls Executive Therapeutic Coaching. She assists the client in recognizing what personal blocks and entrenched behaviors are preventing them from achieving optimal results by creating a safe pathway to explore what is getting in their way. She combines these skills to guide highly committed people.
(415) 723-4253 View (415) 723-4253
Photo of Astrid Koltun, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Astrid Koltun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
Something is no longer working. You sense you have the capacity to experience greater ease and joy in your life. Through the therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and nurturing environment, where we can address emotional blocks and patterns of behavior that are no longer serving. Through body awareness, mindfulness, and deep listening I will support your unfolding, bringing strength and clarity to your relationships and decision making. Whether you are struggling with a phase of life change, anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma, I offer a warm and non judgmental space for the process of healing to occur.
Something is no longer working. You sense you have the capacity to experience greater ease and joy in your life. Through the therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and nurturing environment, where we can address emotional blocks and patterns of behavior that are no longer serving. Through body awareness, mindfulness, and deep listening I will support your unfolding, bringing strength and clarity to your relationships and decision making. Whether you are struggling with a phase of life change, anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma, I offer a warm and non judgmental space for the process of healing to occur.
(415) 886-2917 View (415) 886-2917
Photo of Melissa Jacqueline D'Amore - Melissa D'Amore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa D'Amore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
I help individuals who are seeking support through significant life changes or are suffering from past wounding to heal and to deepen self-awareness.
I help individuals who are seeking support through significant life changes or are suffering from past wounding to heal and to deepen self-awareness.
(415) 539-0216 View (415) 539-0216
Photo of Jennifer A. Caplan, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer A. Caplan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
I am here to help you work through the challenges you've been trying to resolve alone. I specialize in working with individuals who are "high-achievers/perfectionists" yet struggle with satisfying, stable intimacy in their relationships. I also work with those who feel "different" from their peers in a variety of ways. I help my clients transform their struggles into a pathway to a powerful and deep alliance with themselves and with the important people in their lives. Inner intimacy can become the basis and blueprint for all other forms of connection in your life.
I am here to help you work through the challenges you've been trying to resolve alone. I specialize in working with individuals who are "high-achievers/perfectionists" yet struggle with satisfying, stable intimacy in their relationships. I also work with those who feel "different" from their peers in a variety of ways. I help my clients transform their struggles into a pathway to a powerful and deep alliance with themselves and with the important people in their lives. Inner intimacy can become the basis and blueprint for all other forms of connection in your life.
(415) 658-9358 View (415) 658-9358
Photo of Erica Esmail Rath, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Esmail Rath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
Being a therapist is one of the greatest joys in my life. It allows me the opportunity to encourage and witness the human growth process in a profound and personal way. Research shows that modern day distress is caused by isolation and disconnection, which many of us feel even in relationships. We are social creatures who thrive when we feel connected, especially to those who matter the most to us. The work and goal of therapy is to explore and strengthen our connections, first and foremost to ourselves, then to our partners, our families, or people in general.
Being a therapist is one of the greatest joys in my life. It allows me the opportunity to encourage and witness the human growth process in a profound and personal way. Research shows that modern day distress is caused by isolation and disconnection, which many of us feel even in relationships. We are social creatures who thrive when we feel connected, especially to those who matter the most to us. The work and goal of therapy is to explore and strengthen our connections, first and foremost to ourselves, then to our partners, our families, or people in general.
(415) 366-8455 View (415) 366-8455
Photo of Scott Christenson, JD, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Scott Christenson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, JD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
Are you in the middle of a life transition such as a loss, career change, relationship breakup, or spiritual crisis? Are you noticing that you lack motivation? Are you afraid of feelings that seem to appear out of nowhere? I offer a safe, compassionate space to explore all of these questions and to support you in your difficult times. We will also explore ways to be resilient in the face of your struggles.
Are you in the middle of a life transition such as a loss, career change, relationship breakup, or spiritual crisis? Are you noticing that you lack motivation? Are you afraid of feelings that seem to appear out of nowhere? I offer a safe, compassionate space to explore all of these questions and to support you in your difficult times. We will also explore ways to be resilient in the face of your struggles.
(415) 980-1384 View (415) 980-1384
Photo of Alexis Baker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexis Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I collaborate with you to determine your goals for treatment. Your desires for the focus of our sessions may include removing blocks to personal growth, improving relationships with yourself and others, undoing past conditioning- especially related to trauma or adverse experiences, transforming shame, or increasing your understanding of mental illness, whether it's yours or someone you love. I also work with those with compassion fatigue and burn out, assisting my clients in recovering the joy and drive they once felt in their professional lives. Over the course of time I will check in to make sure progress or unforeseen issues are addressed.
I collaborate with you to determine your goals for treatment. Your desires for the focus of our sessions may include removing blocks to personal growth, improving relationships with yourself and others, undoing past conditioning- especially related to trauma or adverse experiences, transforming shame, or increasing your understanding of mental illness, whether it's yours or someone you love. I also work with those with compassion fatigue and burn out, assisting my clients in recovering the joy and drive they once felt in their professional lives. Over the course of time I will check in to make sure progress or unforeseen issues are addressed.
(707) 703-4774 View (707) 703-4774
Photo of Alecia Singer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alecia Singer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
Do you believe that happiness is not possible unless you obtain a certain body size, relationship or job and are on a constant quest for perfectionism? You may find yourself turning to addiction, chaotic relationships, disordered eating, your inner critic and negative body image to find relief from anxiety, stress or trauma. This is understandable, but there is another way... Imagine creating a compassionate relationship with yourself based on accepting your body as a source of wisdom, connecting you to your feelings, authenticity, creativity and life force.
Do you believe that happiness is not possible unless you obtain a certain body size, relationship or job and are on a constant quest for perfectionism? You may find yourself turning to addiction, chaotic relationships, disordered eating, your inner critic and negative body image to find relief from anxiety, stress or trauma. This is understandable, but there is another way... Imagine creating a compassionate relationship with yourself based on accepting your body as a source of wisdom, connecting you to your feelings, authenticity, creativity and life force.
(415) 660-9464 View (415) 660-9464
Photo of Jenna Kemp, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenna Kemp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
Hi! I am Jenna. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco. I meet with clients online, so if you are located anywhere in California, we can work together. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process of honoring each individual's unique experience to foster growth, healing, and change. I provide a safe, authentic, confidential, judgment-free environment. I draw from a Cognitive Behavioral and Client-Centered approach, believing that the client is an expert on their life. My approach is collaborative, genuine, caring, and directive.
Hi! I am Jenna. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco. I meet with clients online, so if you are located anywhere in California, we can work together. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process of honoring each individual's unique experience to foster growth, healing, and change. I provide a safe, authentic, confidential, judgment-free environment. I draw from a Cognitive Behavioral and Client-Centered approach, believing that the client is an expert on their life. My approach is collaborative, genuine, caring, and directive.
(415) 862-8186 View (415) 862-8186
Photo of Adriana Popescu, PhD, Psychologist
Adriana Popescu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
What if there is nothing wrong with you? What if you never had to judge you again? My specialty is inviting clients to their greatness and success; clearing the energies that don't allow for achievement, creativity, and possibilities. I work with clients from all walks of life who are demanding freedom and change. My clients tend to be the seekers, the highly creative, and the dissatisfied dreamers of the world who want more out of living. If you have "been there and done that" and know that more is possible, I would be an ideal therapist for you. My new book "What If You're Not As F-ed Up As You Think You Are?" is all about this.
What if there is nothing wrong with you? What if you never had to judge you again? My specialty is inviting clients to their greatness and success; clearing the energies that don't allow for achievement, creativity, and possibilities. I work with clients from all walks of life who are demanding freedom and change. My clients tend to be the seekers, the highly creative, and the dissatisfied dreamers of the world who want more out of living. If you have "been there and done that" and know that more is possible, I would be an ideal therapist for you. My new book "What If You're Not As F-ed Up As You Think You Are?" is all about this.
(415) 968-6889 View (415) 968-6889
Photo of Jamie Spitz - Jamie Spitz, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Spitz, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
Seeking support for yourself and/or child requires courage and humility. I strive to provide each of my clients with a safe, comforting, and non-judgmental environment where we can build a therapeutic alliance based on trust. When we experience emotional safety, and the basic need of being seen and heard, we can begin to understand our ourselves more deeply. My style is warm, interpersonal, collaborative, and challenging at times, focusing mainly on our relationship in order to promote long-term fulfillment.
Seeking support for yourself and/or child requires courage and humility. I strive to provide each of my clients with a safe, comforting, and non-judgmental environment where we can build a therapeutic alliance based on trust. When we experience emotional safety, and the basic need of being seen and heard, we can begin to understand our ourselves more deeply. My style is warm, interpersonal, collaborative, and challenging at times, focusing mainly on our relationship in order to promote long-term fulfillment.
(949) 627-8314 View (949) 627-8314
Photo of Michael Guy Thompson, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Guy Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
One of the things that haunts me about our all too human condition is how much pain we have to suffer in the ordinary conduct of our lives. Who do we turn to when we are in such despair that we don’t know where to turn? I believe all of us suffer from occasional feelings of fear, alienation, depression, confusion. Some suffer from these symptoms more than others, but we are all otherwise more or less the same. I try to connect with your deepest existential issues and help you get to know yourself intimately, in order to bring the passion and happiness than has been missing back into your life . . . or perhaps, for the first time?
One of the things that haunts me about our all too human condition is how much pain we have to suffer in the ordinary conduct of our lives. Who do we turn to when we are in such despair that we don’t know where to turn? I believe all of us suffer from occasional feelings of fear, alienation, depression, confusion. Some suffer from these symptoms more than others, but we are all otherwise more or less the same. I try to connect with your deepest existential issues and help you get to know yourself intimately, in order to bring the passion and happiness than has been missing back into your life . . . or perhaps, for the first time?
(415) 871-0145 View (415) 871-0145
Photo of Kathleen DeVos, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen DeVos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
Here's what I believe: Your emotionality is one of your greatest resources. When we can understand our emotions as information, not instructions, we have access to all of the rich insights they provide to us about ourselves and the world around us. As a holistically oriented therapist, my work weaves together Western psychological theory with Eastern traditions of spirituality, infusing sessions with practices to assist you in developing self compassion, mindfulness, Emotional Fluency and a reconnection to your body and it’s wisdom.
Here's what I believe: Your emotionality is one of your greatest resources. When we can understand our emotions as information, not instructions, we have access to all of the rich insights they provide to us about ourselves and the world around us. As a holistically oriented therapist, my work weaves together Western psychological theory with Eastern traditions of spirituality, infusing sessions with practices to assist you in developing self compassion, mindfulness, Emotional Fluency and a reconnection to your body and it’s wisdom.
(415) 423-2651 View (415) 423-2651
Photo of Emily Gordon, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
I believe that our pasts shape who we are but don't determine who we become. Inherent in all of us is a desire to heal old wounds and learn from our experiences. Therapy is an opportunity to examine and change the way you feel about yourself, to engage more fully in your relationships and to decide what is possible in your life and career. Therapy allows us to make peace with the past so that we can live more fully in the present.
I believe that our pasts shape who we are but don't determine who we become. Inherent in all of us is a desire to heal old wounds and learn from our experiences. Therapy is an opportunity to examine and change the way you feel about yourself, to engage more fully in your relationships and to decide what is possible in your life and career. Therapy allows us to make peace with the past so that we can live more fully in the present.
(415) 634-9628 View (415) 634-9628
Photo of Dorene Paul - Dorene Paul, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorene Paul, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
Not accepting new clients
Welcome, my name Dorene Paul and I am a licensed psychotherapist and marriage counselor. I have had the honor of practicing therapy for over 20 years, working with adults, couples and youth with a wide variety of issues. In my experience, each person comes to therapy with a unique set of experiences, feelings, issues, gifts, goals, therefore I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, from cognitive to current psychodynamic approaches and EMDR for those dealing with past trauma. In therapy I am your companion and counselor on a deeply meaningful journey.
Welcome, my name Dorene Paul and I am a licensed psychotherapist and marriage counselor. I have had the honor of practicing therapy for over 20 years, working with adults, couples and youth with a wide variety of issues. In my experience, each person comes to therapy with a unique set of experiences, feelings, issues, gifts, goals, therefore I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, from cognitive to current psychodynamic approaches and EMDR for those dealing with past trauma. In therapy I am your companion and counselor on a deeply meaningful journey.
(415) 780-9081 View (415) 780-9081
Photo of Deborah Caust - Deborah Caust, Ph.D., PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Caust, Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
As a Board-Certified Clinical Sexologist and a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist since 1981, I have the expertise to provide effective treatment of all sexual and relationship concerns. Therapy is interactive: I will listen to you, provide feedback, help you to understand why you are having difficulty, and use therapeutic techniques to make lasting change. I believe that therapy should be straightforward, solution-focused, and short-term. Please feel free to contact me to schedule an appointment or to get more information.
As a Board-Certified Clinical Sexologist and a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist since 1981, I have the expertise to provide effective treatment of all sexual and relationship concerns. Therapy is interactive: I will listen to you, provide feedback, help you to understand why you are having difficulty, and use therapeutic techniques to make lasting change. I believe that therapy should be straightforward, solution-focused, and short-term. Please feel free to contact me to schedule an appointment or to get more information.
(415) 233-6236 View (415) 233-6236
Photo of Meghan Crane, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Crane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94125
Welcome! Mindfulness is a practice of self awareness where one learns the significance of what I call the "emotional pause", this is essential in both individual and couples work. Being able to pause allows our minds and bodies to process and integrate information, creating space for self acceptance and making choices that support and align with our personal wellbeing. It also allows us to "respond" rather than "react" in relationship. My approach is direct yet compassionate,I use talk therapy and somatic practices to help couples and individuals fully get to know themselves and make choices that create lasting change.
Welcome! Mindfulness is a practice of self awareness where one learns the significance of what I call the "emotional pause", this is essential in both individual and couples work. Being able to pause allows our minds and bodies to process and integrate information, creating space for self acceptance and making choices that support and align with our personal wellbeing. It also allows us to "respond" rather than "react" in relationship. My approach is direct yet compassionate,I use talk therapy and somatic practices to help couples and individuals fully get to know themselves and make choices that create lasting change.
(415) 639-9917 View (415) 639-9917
Photo of Joshua Wylie, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Wylie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
As a therapist I work collaboratively to help you reconcile with your past to free yourself of old patterns and self-limiting beliefs. Release blocked energy so that you can be a happier, higher-functioning person. Discover your own inner resources and ability to navigate the changes in your life. Access a more authentic self, develop a greater capacity for spontaneous self expression.
As a therapist I work collaboratively to help you reconcile with your past to free yourself of old patterns and self-limiting beliefs. Release blocked energy so that you can be a happier, higher-functioning person. Discover your own inner resources and ability to navigate the changes in your life. Access a more authentic self, develop a greater capacity for spontaneous self expression.
(415) 877-1521 View (415) 877-1521
Photo of Rachel Packer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Packer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
Each client walks through my door with their own struggle. And although each person comes with their own unique story, the one thing that clients do share is a search for a more fulfilled life or a greater sense of self. I support clients as they navigate life's harder transitions - a loss of a relationship, the transition to becoming a parent, a job transition, or simply figuring out who they truly are and want to be. We work together to notice and shift your inner critic that so frequently gets in the way. Additionally, I support couples as they work through the challenges and desires that come with a relationship.
Each client walks through my door with their own struggle. And although each person comes with their own unique story, the one thing that clients do share is a search for a more fulfilled life or a greater sense of self. I support clients as they navigate life's harder transitions - a loss of a relationship, the transition to becoming a parent, a job transition, or simply figuring out who they truly are and want to be. We work together to notice and shift your inner critic that so frequently gets in the way. Additionally, I support couples as they work through the challenges and desires that come with a relationship.
(415) 553-5529 View (415) 553-5529
Photo of Sarah McLaughlin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah McLaughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94125
WELCOME // Does looking for a therapist feel like a daunting and vulnerable process? I pride myself on being a real person. I am a therapist, yes. But I am well aware of how uneasy it can feel to seek out therapy for the first time, or with a new provider. My approach is down to earth, compassionate and non-judgmental. I enjoy having genuine connections with my clients and will gladly share a good laugh or be witness to a much needed cry. The best way to get to know me is to head on over to my website!
WELCOME // Does looking for a therapist feel like a daunting and vulnerable process? I pride myself on being a real person. I am a therapist, yes. But I am well aware of how uneasy it can feel to seek out therapy for the first time, or with a new provider. My approach is down to earth, compassionate and non-judgmental. I enjoy having genuine connections with my clients and will gladly share a good laugh or be witness to a much needed cry. The best way to get to know me is to head on over to my website!
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 94125

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 94125 who prioritize treating:

93% Relationship Issues
90% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Grief
76% Self Esteem
66% Trauma and PTSD
62% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

33% MHN | Health Net
17% Aetna
17% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 94125 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 94125?

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.