Therapists in Turnagain, Anchorage, AK

Photo of Macrina Dunaway, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Macrina Dunaway
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99507  (Online Only)
You've always believed that worrying was a choice. If you were just motivated enough you could stop yourself from spiraling. Sadness is a mindset. You could push through the shadows and darkness if you would just try a little harder. But now it's like these emotions have taken you hostage and are creeping into every part of your life. The strategies that you relied on to keep yourself in check aren't working like they used to. You feel lost without a clear way forward. The shame of allowing yourself to go unchecked is physically and emotionally exhausting. It's a daily game of trying to act ok and hold it together. It's crushing.
You've always believed that worrying was a choice. If you were just motivated enough you could stop yourself from spiraling. Sadness is a mindset. You could push through the shadows and darkness if you would just try a little harder. But now it's like these emotions have taken you hostage and are creeping into every part of your life. The strategies that you relied on to keep yourself in check aren't working like they used to. You feel lost without a clear way forward. The shame of allowing yourself to go unchecked is physically and emotionally exhausting. It's a daily game of trying to act ok and hold it together. It's crushing.
(907) 444-4526 View (907) 444-4526
Photo of Mara Hill, MS, LPC, Counselor
Mara Hill
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
Hi there! I'm a born and raised Alaskan who has been been providing mental health services to children and families in the Anchorage area since 2015. I have particular expertise in working with folks who have experienced traumatic or stressful events, or who are adjusting to a big life change. I have also worked with families navigating behavior challenges and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. I typically work with children and adolescents ages three through seventeen, but please don't hesitate to call if you or your child are outside this age range.
Hi there! I'm a born and raised Alaskan who has been been providing mental health services to children and families in the Anchorage area since 2015. I have particular expertise in working with folks who have experienced traumatic or stressful events, or who are adjusting to a big life change. I have also worked with families navigating behavior challenges and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. I typically work with children and adolescents ages three through seventeen, but please don't hesitate to call if you or your child are outside this age range.
(907) 229-8888 View (907) 229-8888
Photo of Melissa Moxlow Swan - Ever After Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ever After Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
Not accepting new clients
My name is Melissa Moxlow Swan. I am a lifelong Alaskan who attended school outside of the state of Alaska while completing my bachelors degree at Gonzaga University. I completed my masters degree at the University of Alaska Anchorage in 2014. I worked at a local agency here in Anchorage to support youth and their families at a residential treatment program. I then transitioned to working with active duty service members and their families and have found that work to be extremely rewarding. I completed my professional licensure in 2017 and became a clinical supervisor in 2021.
My name is Melissa Moxlow Swan. I am a lifelong Alaskan who attended school outside of the state of Alaska while completing my bachelors degree at Gonzaga University. I completed my masters degree at the University of Alaska Anchorage in 2014. I worked at a local agency here in Anchorage to support youth and their families at a residential treatment program. I then transitioned to working with active duty service members and their families and have found that work to be extremely rewarding. I completed my professional licensure in 2017 and became a clinical supervisor in 2021.
(844) 698-6629 View (844) 698-6629
Photo of Breanna James, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Breanna James
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you an adult with autism, ADHD or a traumatic brain injury who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
Are you an adult with autism, ADHD or a traumatic brain injury who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
(907) 531-9443 View (907) 531-9443
Photo of Danielle Dittmer - Danielle Dittmer, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Dittmer, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have experience working in the mental health and human services field for over 20 years. I support individuals through life's challenges by helping them in accessing their personal strengths and cultivating the skills needed to navigate toward a balanced and healthy life. I enjoy working with older teens and adults experiencing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, complex medical conditions, adjustment and life transitions, and issues related to sexual identity and orientation.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have experience working in the mental health and human services field for over 20 years. I support individuals through life's challenges by helping them in accessing their personal strengths and cultivating the skills needed to navigate toward a balanced and healthy life. I enjoy working with older teens and adults experiencing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, complex medical conditions, adjustment and life transitions, and issues related to sexual identity and orientation.
(907) 891-1013 View (907) 891-1013
Photo of Marjorie Teresa Kyle - Cygnet  Psychological Services LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Cygnet Psychological Services LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
As a former teacher of children with special needs, I am keenly aware of the challenges and rewards that families of children with special needs face. My experience, education, and training gives me a unique perspective and I believe the ability to be assistance to families and children who are facing those unique rewards and challenges.
As a former teacher of children with special needs, I am keenly aware of the challenges and rewards that families of children with special needs face. My experience, education, and training gives me a unique perspective and I believe the ability to be assistance to families and children who are facing those unique rewards and challenges.
(907) 312-1067 View (907) 312-1067
Photo of Sharon Litwin, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Litwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99510  (Online Only)
I'm a seasoned therapist, certified in EMDR, with a strong belief in your innate ability to heal. Does negative self-talk impair your quality of life? Are you regularly triggered by reminders of painful memories? I specialize in trauma and its symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger and complicated grief. Many are currently experiencing collective trauma and grief as a result of our tumultuous world. Those who have existing trauma and anxiety can be particularly affected.
I'm a seasoned therapist, certified in EMDR, with a strong belief in your innate ability to heal. Does negative self-talk impair your quality of life? Are you regularly triggered by reminders of painful memories? I specialize in trauma and its symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger and complicated grief. Many are currently experiencing collective trauma and grief as a result of our tumultuous world. Those who have existing trauma and anxiety can be particularly affected.
(855) 912-6218 View (855) 912-6218
Photo of Haley Gilman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Gilman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Seeking support can be intimidating. It takes courage to know when to ask for the help we cannot provide ourselves. Thanks for being here, that is a great first step. I provide non-judgmental, person-centered support to individuals in various stages of life. If you are finding it difficult to deal with challenge, transition and change in your life- you are not alone. Depression, anxiety, grief and loss can change the way we view the world and impact our ability to cope in a healthy and consistent way. Maybe you have specific mental health needs or are just looking for a safe, positive space to explore yourself more deeply.
Seeking support can be intimidating. It takes courage to know when to ask for the help we cannot provide ourselves. Thanks for being here, that is a great first step. I provide non-judgmental, person-centered support to individuals in various stages of life. If you are finding it difficult to deal with challenge, transition and change in your life- you are not alone. Depression, anxiety, grief and loss can change the way we view the world and impact our ability to cope in a healthy and consistent way. Maybe you have specific mental health needs or are just looking for a safe, positive space to explore yourself more deeply.
(406) 642-8381 View (406) 642-8381
Photo of Uliana Fleener, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Uliana Fleener
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
“Life is not about how many times you fall down. It’s about how many times you get back up.”- Jaime Escalante. Do you remember what it feels like to live your life to the fullest? Greet every day with a smile, knowing that you're going to be OK no matter what life throws at you? To feel content in your essence and in your body? I work with clients who feel like they have lost "pieces of themselves" along the way during difficult/traumatic childhood or life events, grief, break-ups/divorces/ abusive relationships, struggles with depression, anxiety, phobias, attachment traumas etc.
“Life is not about how many times you fall down. It’s about how many times you get back up.”- Jaime Escalante. Do you remember what it feels like to live your life to the fullest? Greet every day with a smile, knowing that you're going to be OK no matter what life throws at you? To feel content in your essence and in your body? I work with clients who feel like they have lost "pieces of themselves" along the way during difficult/traumatic childhood or life events, grief, break-ups/divorces/ abusive relationships, struggles with depression, anxiety, phobias, attachment traumas etc.
(907) 830-8262 View (907) 830-8262
Photo of Jenae MacNaughton - Hope's Horizon Counseling Services, LLC, LMHC-S, LPC-S, LCMHC, LPC-MH, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope's Horizon Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC-S, LPC-S, LCMHC, LPC-MH, LCPC
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Life happens; the effects of loss vary; and the impacts of stress/trauma are more ‘normal’ than most people realize. You are not alone; your struggles are real; and your mental wellness is and should be treated with as much vigor as your need for food and shelter. It is natural for our bodies to want to heal themselves; and our human strength and natural behavior is to adapt and evolve. We develop negative coping skills as we adapt to stress/trauma, grief/loss, major life changes/transitions, chronic illness/pain, identity struggles, and relationship conflicts.
Life happens; the effects of loss vary; and the impacts of stress/trauma are more ‘normal’ than most people realize. You are not alone; your struggles are real; and your mental wellness is and should be treated with as much vigor as your need for food and shelter. It is natural for our bodies to want to heal themselves; and our human strength and natural behavior is to adapt and evolve. We develop negative coping skills as we adapt to stress/trauma, grief/loss, major life changes/transitions, chronic illness/pain, identity struggles, and relationship conflicts.
(877) 274-4863 View (877) 274-4863
Photo of Sarah Davidson, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Maybe you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help like you’d hoped, or maybe you have never really seen the point. You are not alone in feeling that way. Chances are, if you are glancing through Psychology Today, then there is some curiosity or desire for change at this point. Maybe you are wondering when you might feel like yourself again, or you are feeling so overwhelmed with life that you can’t even think straight.
Maybe you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help like you’d hoped, or maybe you have never really seen the point. You are not alone in feeling that way. Chances are, if you are glancing through Psychology Today, then there is some curiosity or desire for change at this point. Maybe you are wondering when you might feel like yourself again, or you are feeling so overwhelmed with life that you can’t even think straight.
(844) 912-3318 View (844) 912-3318
Photo of Ron Latsha, MS, LPC, Counselor
Ron Latsha
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
When we experience traumatic, intense or habitual stressors, we tend to wear down over time. Realizing something needs to change, we reach out for help. It has become my life's passion to provide help and relief in the lives of those individuals ready for change. I collaborate with my client to find his or her own answers. I believe, that we already know what the answers are to our unique challenges. Sometimes we simply need someone to help guide us through the process of discovering those answers.
When we experience traumatic, intense or habitual stressors, we tend to wear down over time. Realizing something needs to change, we reach out for help. It has become my life's passion to provide help and relief in the lives of those individuals ready for change. I collaborate with my client to find his or her own answers. I believe, that we already know what the answers are to our unique challenges. Sometimes we simply need someone to help guide us through the process of discovering those answers.
(907) 312-5227 View (907) 312-5227
Photo of Tonie Protzman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonie Protzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
Tonie Protzman is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 15 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents and adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Tonie specializes in addressing relationship issues and major life transitions. Tonie completed her Master of Clinical Psychology at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She is an enrolled descendent of the Oneida Tribe of Wisconsin, Turtle Clan with ample experience navigating the stressors and joys of living in both worlds.
Tonie Protzman is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 15 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents and adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Tonie specializes in addressing relationship issues and major life transitions. Tonie completed her Master of Clinical Psychology at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She is an enrolled descendent of the Oneida Tribe of Wisconsin, Turtle Clan with ample experience navigating the stressors and joys of living in both worlds.
(855) 338-0723 View (855) 338-0723
Photo of Noel Tyler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Noel Tyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
Noel Tyler is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 6+ years of experience helping people live more fulfilled lives. She is passionate about children, adolescents, and young adults because addressing mental health early in life leads to a more productive and successful adulthood. Noel is also passionate about helping adults deal with things in their past that continue to affect them today. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 1992 from Seattle Pacific University and later completed her Master's of Professional Counseling in 2018 from Grand Canyon University.
Noel Tyler is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 6+ years of experience helping people live more fulfilled lives. She is passionate about children, adolescents, and young adults because addressing mental health early in life leads to a more productive and successful adulthood. Noel is also passionate about helping adults deal with things in their past that continue to affect them today. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 1992 from Seattle Pacific University and later completed her Master's of Professional Counseling in 2018 from Grand Canyon University.
(844) 235-8286 View (844) 235-8286
Photo of Kirsten Strolle Trauma Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirsten Strolle Trauma Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with the effects of trauma, anxiety or depression? On the surface things have been going ok but it feels like you are masking at work, at home and with friends. Underneath the mask is the feeling that you don’t really belong, constant anxiety, imposter syndrome and a bit of perfectionism. Perhaps you’ve learned that to keep up appearances that people-pleasing and putting other people’s needs ahead of your own feels safer than being seen. The feelings of being too much and not enough plague you. You are tired of keeping this up and want to break free into your authentic self but something keeps holding you back.
Do you struggle with the effects of trauma, anxiety or depression? On the surface things have been going ok but it feels like you are masking at work, at home and with friends. Underneath the mask is the feeling that you don’t really belong, constant anxiety, imposter syndrome and a bit of perfectionism. Perhaps you’ve learned that to keep up appearances that people-pleasing and putting other people’s needs ahead of your own feels safer than being seen. The feelings of being too much and not enough plague you. You are tired of keeping this up and want to break free into your authentic self but something keeps holding you back.
(907) 312-5822 View (907) 312-5822
Photo of Elaina Davis, LPC, MA, NCC, CPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaina Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Elaina and I enjoy helping people who struggle with difficult feelings such as anxiety and depression, sexuality and gender identity issues, as well as substance use and addiction. Whether it's a lifelong battle with addiction, a recent life change, or struggles with anxiety or depression, life has a way of sending us something we may need a little help learning to overcome.
Hi! My name is Elaina and I enjoy helping people who struggle with difficult feelings such as anxiety and depression, sexuality and gender identity issues, as well as substance use and addiction. Whether it's a lifelong battle with addiction, a recent life change, or struggles with anxiety or depression, life has a way of sending us something we may need a little help learning to overcome.
(907) 217-3757 View (907) 217-3757
Photo of Megan Johnson, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Megan Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where you can take steps towards healing, growth, and wellness. My hope is to create a safe space to work through difficult times, overcome challenges, and gain the insight and tools needed to achieve your counseling goals. I am dually licensed in both mental health and substance use disorder counseling.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where you can take steps towards healing, growth, and wellness. My hope is to create a safe space to work through difficult times, overcome challenges, and gain the insight and tools needed to achieve your counseling goals. I am dually licensed in both mental health and substance use disorder counseling.
(425) 475-3547 View (425) 475-3547
Photo of Olya Clem, MS, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olya Clem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the shadows your past? Do you long for a way out of the pain, anxiety, and emotional turmoil that seem to have taken over your life? Living with the aftermath of trauma can be a lonely, isolating road, causing profound disconnect from yourself, your body and those around you. With deep empathy and commitment to serving those affected by trauma, I help individuals confront and heal from the deep emotional scars left by the events from the past.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the shadows your past? Do you long for a way out of the pain, anxiety, and emotional turmoil that seem to have taken over your life? Living with the aftermath of trauma can be a lonely, isolating road, causing profound disconnect from yourself, your body and those around you. With deep empathy and commitment to serving those affected by trauma, I help individuals confront and heal from the deep emotional scars left by the events from the past.
(907) 891-7502 View (907) 891-7502
Photo of Dr. Monique Andrews, PsyD, CDCII, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Monique Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, CDCII, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99517
My counseling style is eclectic giving my clients an opportunity to receive treatment customized to their specific needs. I am humorous, patient, understanding, and an excellent listener. I have over 18 years of experience as an addictions counselor and provide services to individuals experiencing a wide range of issues such as depression, PTSD, anxiety, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other mental health concerns, I know change is possible. My greatest desire as a therapist is to assist clients through their journey of healing by providing them the necessary support to thrive!
My counseling style is eclectic giving my clients an opportunity to receive treatment customized to their specific needs. I am humorous, patient, understanding, and an excellent listener. I have over 18 years of experience as an addictions counselor and provide services to individuals experiencing a wide range of issues such as depression, PTSD, anxiety, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other mental health concerns, I know change is possible. My greatest desire as a therapist is to assist clients through their journey of healing by providing them the necessary support to thrive!
(907) 854-5018 View (907) 854-5018
Photo of Mary C Elkins - GE Family Services, MA, LPC, CDC I, Licensed Professional Counselor
GE Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CDC I
Verified Verified
Turnagain, Anchorage, AK 99509  (Online Only)
(907) 331-0576 View (907) 331-0576

See more therapy options for Turnagain, Anchorage

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Turnagain, Anchorage, AK

20+

Average cost per session

$222

Therapists in Turnagain, Anchorage, AK who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
65% Relationship Issues
65% Grief
65% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Premera
47% Aetna

How Therapists in Turnagain, Anchorage, AK see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

95% Female
5% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Turnagain, Anchorage?

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.