Therapists in Alabaster, AL

Photo of Abby Schmucker, BS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Schmucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alabaster, AL 35007
It is my personal belief that everyone can benefit from counseling at some point in their life. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or a life changing event, such as a loss or an empty nest, please know you are not alone. I have experience working with children, adolescents, men and women, of all ages.
It is my personal belief that everyone can benefit from counseling at some point in their life. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or a life changing event, such as a loss or an empty nest, please know you are not alone. I have experience working with children, adolescents, men and women, of all ages.
(205) 528-8142 View (205) 528-8142
Photo of Alexandria Cottrell, MEd, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Alexandria Cottrell
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, I’m Alex! I'm thrilled that you've decided to take a brave and meaningful step towards enhancing your wellbeing and embracing personal growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I'm deeply honored to support and guide you on this transformative journey. Your courage in seeking change is admirable, and I am here to facilitate your path towards healing and self-discovery. I have immediate in-network availability (BCBS, Aetna, Cigna) and I am accepting new clients. Private pay option available.
Hello and Welcome, I’m Alex! I'm thrilled that you've decided to take a brave and meaningful step towards enhancing your wellbeing and embracing personal growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I'm deeply honored to support and guide you on this transformative journey. Your courage in seeking change is admirable, and I am here to facilitate your path towards healing and self-discovery. I have immediate in-network availability (BCBS, Aetna, Cigna) and I am accepting new clients. Private pay option available.
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Photo of Dennis Lee Taylor Sr, MDiv, MA, LPC, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dennis Lee Taylor Sr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC, CAMS
Verified Verified
Alabaster, AL 35007
Life can certainly be difficult and challenging at times. Especially now as we are all dealing with changing circumstances and uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus crisis! It is important to seek help to cope with the wide range of emotions felt during these stressful times. But many also continue to experience the same struggles and issues that they had before this worldwide crisis... and I want to help! Therapy is your opportunity to grow healthier -- mentally, emotionally, behaviorally and relationally. I truly believe my in my motto, "Counseling with Care"!
Life can certainly be difficult and challenging at times. Especially now as we are all dealing with changing circumstances and uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus crisis! It is important to seek help to cope with the wide range of emotions felt during these stressful times. But many also continue to experience the same struggles and issues that they had before this worldwide crisis... and I want to help! Therapy is your opportunity to grow healthier -- mentally, emotionally, behaviorally and relationally. I truly believe my in my motto, "Counseling with Care"!
(205) 564-9748 View (205) 564-9748
Photo of Ashley Elizabeth Dixon - Fertile Ground, LLC , MS, ALC, CCM, Counselor
Fertile Ground, LLC
Counselor, MS, ALC, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
I'm Ashley Dixon, the face behind Fertile Ground. As someone who's not a big fan of traditional therapy myself, I get where you're coming from. But hear me out—I am not your average therapist. My goal is to help you navigate life's twists and turns without feeling like you're on a Shrink's couch (LOL). Whether it's tackling mental health struggles or sorting out relationship knots, I'm all about empowering you to find your way. No judgment, just a friendly ear and practical guidance. Together, we'll dig deep to uncover what's really going on beneath the surface. Trust me, understanding the why is the first step to finding the how.
I'm Ashley Dixon, the face behind Fertile Ground. As someone who's not a big fan of traditional therapy myself, I get where you're coming from. But hear me out—I am not your average therapist. My goal is to help you navigate life's twists and turns without feeling like you're on a Shrink's couch (LOL). Whether it's tackling mental health struggles or sorting out relationship knots, I'm all about empowering you to find your way. No judgment, just a friendly ear and practical guidance. Together, we'll dig deep to uncover what's really going on beneath the surface. Trust me, understanding the why is the first step to finding the how.
(659) 234-2117 View (659) 234-2117
Photo of Ashley Carter, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Life has a way of throwing challenges at us that can feel overwhelming. Sometimes these challenges make us feel frustrated, sad, disappointed, and anxious. While these obstacles and feelings are completely normal, they have a way of impacting our mental health. If you are looking for a change and are ready to start therapy, I am here to help you right where you are. Together we will set goals and work towards these challenges at your own pace. Through this process, I hope to help you learn more about yourself and find your inner strength to face whatever comes your way.
Life has a way of throwing challenges at us that can feel overwhelming. Sometimes these challenges make us feel frustrated, sad, disappointed, and anxious. While these obstacles and feelings are completely normal, they have a way of impacting our mental health. If you are looking for a change and are ready to start therapy, I am here to help you right where you are. Together we will set goals and work towards these challenges at your own pace. Through this process, I hope to help you learn more about yourself and find your inner strength to face whatever comes your way.
(205) 624-2422 View (205) 624-2422
Photo of Bri Mumpower - Initiative Counseling, LLC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Initiative Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about helping individuals from all walks of life, but also proudly serves those of all religions, LGBTQIA+ community at large. I am also a KAP (Kink Aware Professional). Questions are always welcome and I am willing to learn more in order to help a client. As a counselor, I strive for quality and compassion when it comes to serving my clients. I take a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy and believe that the client is the expert of themselves.
I'm passionate about helping individuals from all walks of life, but also proudly serves those of all religions, LGBTQIA+ community at large. I am also a KAP (Kink Aware Professional). Questions are always welcome and I am willing to learn more in order to help a client. As a counselor, I strive for quality and compassion when it comes to serving my clients. I take a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy and believe that the client is the expert of themselves.
(205) 896-6274 View (205) 896-6274
Photo of Lakeshia Thomas - A Better You Counseling Service, LLC, MS, ALC, Counselor
A Better You Counseling Service, LLC
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Alabaster, AL 35007
For 15+ years, I've passionately supported individuals, groups, and families as a counselor, fostering a secure environment for them to address life's challenges. I integrate various therapies like CBT, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, Psychoanalytic, and Gestalt, tailoring sessions to client needs, lasting 30 minutes to an hour, at $75.00 or $150.00, respectively.
For 15+ years, I've passionately supported individuals, groups, and families as a counselor, fostering a secure environment for them to address life's challenges. I integrate various therapies like CBT, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, Psychoanalytic, and Gestalt, tailoring sessions to client needs, lasting 30 minutes to an hour, at $75.00 or $150.00, respectively.
(205) 858-9818 View (205) 858-9818
Photo of Cherie Dopson, MA, LPC, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cherie Dopson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
I believe we are all born with the innate ability to be great...the greatest version of ourselves. We fall, we fail, but we continue to thrive to be a healthy and productive member of society. With the help of the resources available to us, we choose a goal and work towards it, one step at a time.
I believe we are all born with the innate ability to be great...the greatest version of ourselves. We fall, we fail, but we continue to thrive to be a healthy and productive member of society. With the help of the resources available to us, we choose a goal and work towards it, one step at a time.
(205) 607-8564 View (205) 607-8564
Photo of Richard Krebs, LPC, EMDR, Counselor
Richard Krebs
Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I have learned that life is a beautiful, but sometimes difficult journey with many hills and valleys to navigate. We all have the ability to be amazing, but sometimes find ourselves in a position to have to relearn how to tap into our own inner strength and resiliency.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I have learned that life is a beautiful, but sometimes difficult journey with many hills and valleys to navigate. We all have the ability to be amazing, but sometimes find ourselves in a position to have to relearn how to tap into our own inner strength and resiliency.
(205) 964-9312 View (205) 964-9312
Photo of Daniel Birdsong, PhD, LPC-S, MFT-A, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Birdsong
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, MFT-A, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
My name is Daniel Birdsong, and I am honored to support individuals, couples, and families through counseling at Warrior Wellness Group, LLC. I am a part-time counselor, and I see clients on Monday and Friday mornings from 8:00-12:00. I approach counseling from a person-centered and strength-based perspective focused on clients’ individual goals for personal change and growth. My goal is to partner with and support you in your own journey of development and self-improvement.
My name is Daniel Birdsong, and I am honored to support individuals, couples, and families through counseling at Warrior Wellness Group, LLC. I am a part-time counselor, and I see clients on Monday and Friday mornings from 8:00-12:00. I approach counseling from a person-centered and strength-based perspective focused on clients’ individual goals for personal change and growth. My goal is to partner with and support you in your own journey of development and self-improvement.
(205) 624-2422 View (205) 624-2422
Photo of Joshua Shoemake, MA, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Joshua Shoemake
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Thank you for taking time to consider counseling. You do not have to tackle this life alone! I believe that every person has value and purpose. We are all made to be great in our own way. When life does not work out the way we intended, whether it is due to addiction, depression/anxiety, or any other life transitions, you have the opportunity to be the greatest version of you in how you respond to each circumstance/situation.
Thank you for taking time to consider counseling. You do not have to tackle this life alone! I believe that every person has value and purpose. We are all made to be great in our own way. When life does not work out the way we intended, whether it is due to addiction, depression/anxiety, or any other life transitions, you have the opportunity to be the greatest version of you in how you respond to each circumstance/situation.
(205) 378-6842 View (205) 378-6842
Photo of Mandy Owens Carter - Carter Counseling and Sandtray Therapy, LLC, MS, LPC, Counselor
Carter Counseling and Sandtray Therapy, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Wherever life finds you, whether you may be dealing with anxiety or depression, addiction, chronic illness, shame, grief, insecurity, trauma, forgiveness, relationship issues, or simply feel stuck, I would be honored to meet you where you are and provide an environment that you can feel comfortable just being you in. If you have found yourself asking, “Is there more?”, the answer is yes, there is always more. Call to make an appointment, and take the first step today to finding whatever that “more” is for you.
Wherever life finds you, whether you may be dealing with anxiety or depression, addiction, chronic illness, shame, grief, insecurity, trauma, forgiveness, relationship issues, or simply feel stuck, I would be honored to meet you where you are and provide an environment that you can feel comfortable just being you in. If you have found yourself asking, “Is there more?”, the answer is yes, there is always more. Call to make an appointment, and take the first step today to finding whatever that “more” is for you.
(205) 882-3656 View (205) 882-3656
Photo of Killette Anderson, LPC, Counselor
Killette Anderson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Are you feeling alone, confused, or just overwhelmed by life? I'm here to help and accepting new clients! I work with adolescent and adult clients of all ages. I am particularly passionate about working with teenage girls and adults with issues pertaining to dating, singleness, and family relationships. I am a Christian and have a holistic approach, believing all parts of the mind and body have to work together for the good of the client. Call or email me today to schedule and get the support you need.
Are you feeling alone, confused, or just overwhelmed by life? I'm here to help and accepting new clients! I work with adolescent and adult clients of all ages. I am particularly passionate about working with teenage girls and adults with issues pertaining to dating, singleness, and family relationships. I am a Christian and have a holistic approach, believing all parts of the mind and body have to work together for the good of the client. Call or email me today to schedule and get the support you need.
(205) 772-1701 View (205) 772-1701
Photo of Aisha Holmes Thorn, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aisha Holmes Thorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that each person is the expert of their life. I also believe that at times we all need an objective person to listen and to help us find our center. I strive to meet each person where they are, no judgements, no preconceived ideas. I believe that counseling is not about labeling problems, it is about developing coping skills, gaining self awareness and self understanding. Together we find ways to uncover your strengths and live a more meaningful life.
I believe that each person is the expert of their life. I also believe that at times we all need an objective person to listen and to help us find our center. I strive to meet each person where they are, no judgements, no preconceived ideas. I believe that counseling is not about labeling problems, it is about developing coping skills, gaining self awareness and self understanding. Together we find ways to uncover your strengths and live a more meaningful life.
(205) 861-0057 View (205) 861-0057
Photo of Victoria Frazier - Insight Therapeutic Services, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Insight Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Alabaster, AL 35007
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
(205) 374-9859 View (205) 374-9859
Photo of Dr. James L. Jackson, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. James L. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Dr. James L. Jackson has over 15 years experience providing professional counseling for children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing mental and emotional pain related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Dr. Jackson is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and is a Registered Play Therapist and Supervisor. James works with clients as young as age 3 and uses evidence-based therapy modalities to address behavioral and emotional concerns.
Dr. James L. Jackson has over 15 years experience providing professional counseling for children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing mental and emotional pain related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Dr. Jackson is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and is a Registered Play Therapist and Supervisor. James works with clients as young as age 3 and uses evidence-based therapy modalities to address behavioral and emotional concerns.
(205) 346-7637 View (205) 346-7637
Photo of Laurita Miller, LICSW, PIP, QCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurita Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, QCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Not accepting new clients
Are you unable to enjoy your present because of negative influences from the past? With compassion and sincere interest, I have provided psychotherapy with adults and couples, for 30 years. I use an integrative approach drawing on methodologies most suited to the individual needs and goals of clients, hopefully alleviating suffering, resolving past and current issues, and teaching new skills for healthier living. I utilize therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, various forms of Family Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Psycho-education, and my specialty, EMDR.
Are you unable to enjoy your present because of negative influences from the past? With compassion and sincere interest, I have provided psychotherapy with adults and couples, for 30 years. I use an integrative approach drawing on methodologies most suited to the individual needs and goals of clients, hopefully alleviating suffering, resolving past and current issues, and teaching new skills for healthier living. I utilize therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, various forms of Family Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Psycho-education, and my specialty, EMDR.
(205) 293-1209 View (205) 293-1209
Photo of Adrienne S Cooper, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrienne S Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Alabaster, AL 35007
Currently scheduling for August 2024! Lotus Counseling Services started with a vision and a passion to help girls develop into strong, confident, fearless, healthy women. The lotus flower grows from deep mud, through murky water, to produce a beautiful blossom; the more adversity the more beautiful a transformation. My role as a counselor is to provide support and guidance along that journey. Everyone is an individual and therefore there is no one approach that works for everyone. I pride myself on being genuine with my clients and utilizing counseling methods that are most effective for her as an individual.
Currently scheduling for August 2024! Lotus Counseling Services started with a vision and a passion to help girls develop into strong, confident, fearless, healthy women. The lotus flower grows from deep mud, through murky water, to produce a beautiful blossom; the more adversity the more beautiful a transformation. My role as a counselor is to provide support and guidance along that journey. Everyone is an individual and therefore there is no one approach that works for everyone. I pride myself on being genuine with my clients and utilizing counseling methods that are most effective for her as an individual.
(205) 236-7298 View (205) 236-7298
Photo of Angie Martin, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angie Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Alabaster, AL 35007
Trauma comes in many ways and brings with it many difficult symptoms. Fear, worry, sadness, and a feeling that you can't cope are just a few. Others don't always understand you or know how to help. This is especially true for parents who want to help their children navigate traumatic experiences but feel helpless to know where to start. There is nothing more frightening than having a child or teen who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or suicidal thoughts. Teenagers often feel unheard and parents can feel helpless.
Trauma comes in many ways and brings with it many difficult symptoms. Fear, worry, sadness, and a feeling that you can't cope are just a few. Others don't always understand you or know how to help. This is especially true for parents who want to help their children navigate traumatic experiences but feel helpless to know where to start. There is nothing more frightening than having a child or teen who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or suicidal thoughts. Teenagers often feel unheard and parents can feel helpless.
(205) 927-5498 View (205) 927-5498
Photo of Caroline Bria, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caroline Bria
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alabaster, AL 35007
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck in some part of your life? Trying to navigate a romantic, peer, or parent-child relationship, life transition, anxiety or depression? Struggling to figure out what's getting in the way sexually, emotionally, or mentally? Does it feel like something is inhibiting life satisfaction, security and connection but hard to figure out what that is? I want to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be. I use a collaborative approach to tailor therapeutic techniques to fit your unique needs and personality. My joy and passion in being an MFT stems from the journey of moving through change with you.
Are you feeling stuck in some part of your life? Trying to navigate a romantic, peer, or parent-child relationship, life transition, anxiety or depression? Struggling to figure out what's getting in the way sexually, emotionally, or mentally? Does it feel like something is inhibiting life satisfaction, security and connection but hard to figure out what that is? I want to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be. I use a collaborative approach to tailor therapeutic techniques to fit your unique needs and personality. My joy and passion in being an MFT stems from the journey of moving through change with you.
(205) 272-6861 View (205) 272-6861

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Alabaster, AL

40+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Alabaster, AL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
83% Coping Skills
83% Self Esteem
79% Stress
74% Relationship Issues
71% Grief

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% New Directions | Lucet
54% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Alabaster, AL see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Alabaster?

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.