Therapists in Greensboro, NC

Photo of Erin Raynor, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Raynor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I help individuals, couples, and families explore how they would like to see their lives change for the better. We navigate relationship issues, parenting challenges, difficulties engaging with peers, and how to set healthy boundaries.
I help individuals, couples, and families explore how they would like to see their lives change for the better. We navigate relationship issues, parenting challenges, difficulties engaging with peers, and how to set healthy boundaries.
(336) 360-6094 View (336) 360-6094
Photo of Dr. Maddy M Lowman, PhD, LCMHC, SEP
Dr. Maddy M Lowman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
Waitlist for new clients
It can be exceptionally difficult to go through daily life, and I've found that to be true for most (if not all) people I know and love. There are so many difficult things that can pile up on one another, making it complicated to maintain relationships, wellness, work, and other things you might value. Sometimes it's hard to "ask for what you need" because sometimes we have no idea! I'm here to help even when that question feels hard to answer, and our work can start with exploring goals you have for yourself. The resiliency I see in clients is awe-inspiring and beautiful, and I offer several approaches to help them get there.
It can be exceptionally difficult to go through daily life, and I've found that to be true for most (if not all) people I know and love. There are so many difficult things that can pile up on one another, making it complicated to maintain relationships, wellness, work, and other things you might value. Sometimes it's hard to "ask for what you need" because sometimes we have no idea! I'm here to help even when that question feels hard to answer, and our work can start with exploring goals you have for yourself. The resiliency I see in clients is awe-inspiring and beautiful, and I offer several approaches to help them get there.
(336) 396-7525 View (336) 396-7525
Photo of Beth Watkins, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Beth Watkins
Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Not accepting new clients
Ever feel like asking, “Why me, God?” or “What did I do so wrong?” Sometimes our hardest moments lead us to new beginnings. Simply taking the first step of seeking help can begin the process of healing. Life is hard. Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, disappointments can cause us to get stuck. Let’s be honest, life can lead us down some paths that we never meant to take. I would like to help you to dream again without fear.
Ever feel like asking, “Why me, God?” or “What did I do so wrong?” Sometimes our hardest moments lead us to new beginnings. Simply taking the first step of seeking help can begin the process of healing. Life is hard. Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, disappointments can cause us to get stuck. Let’s be honest, life can lead us down some paths that we never meant to take. I would like to help you to dream again without fear.
(336) 223-4687 View (336) 223-4687
Photo of Erin Cooley-Gross, MS, LCMHC, QS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Cooley-Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27455  (Online Only)
Hey! Welcome to the first step (or possibly the 100th step) in your self healing journey. I believe we are all innately capable of becoming aligned with our authenticity and to be the expert of ourselves. But sometimes we get in our own way! I guide my clients to be a more whole version of themselves; whether it be working through childhood trauma or by breaking down the barriers to new relationships. I use evidence-based modalities to help anyone on the road to self discovery and healing.
Hey! Welcome to the first step (or possibly the 100th step) in your self healing journey. I believe we are all innately capable of becoming aligned with our authenticity and to be the expert of ourselves. But sometimes we get in our own way! I guide my clients to be a more whole version of themselves; whether it be working through childhood trauma or by breaking down the barriers to new relationships. I use evidence-based modalities to help anyone on the road to self discovery and healing.
(336) 530-5553 View (336) 530-5553
Photo of Leslie Gonzalez - H3 - Hope, Health, and Healing PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
H3 - Hope, Health, and Healing PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27405
My goal as a therapist is to work for and with clients to help them to become well-balanced in all areas of life. It is my goal to help clients identify their own values, strengths, and needs while creating a trusting therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to provide clients with an environment and a platform where they can tell their stories without feeling judged; regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, or cultural background. It is my goal to help reduce the suffering or distress that clients experience and to help instill hope and optimism.
My goal as a therapist is to work for and with clients to help them to become well-balanced in all areas of life. It is my goal to help clients identify their own values, strengths, and needs while creating a trusting therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to provide clients with an environment and a platform where they can tell their stories without feeling judged; regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, or cultural background. It is my goal to help reduce the suffering or distress that clients experience and to help instill hope and optimism.
(336) 962-2570 View (336) 962-2570
Photo of John Poag, PhD, Psychologist
John Poag
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
A person coming to see me may be experiencing a significant life change such as a separation or divorce, a move, a career change, the deployment of their significant other, family problems, issues involving their child's behaviors or legal trouble, or problems in relationships with their spouse or partner. Others may seek psychotherapy to help themselves grow, deal with anger, or overcome patterns of behaviors or ways of being with others that don't work any more. Some people seek psychotherapy because someone close to them insisted they call me. I enjoy working with all of these presenting concerns.
A person coming to see me may be experiencing a significant life change such as a separation or divorce, a move, a career change, the deployment of their significant other, family problems, issues involving their child's behaviors or legal trouble, or problems in relationships with their spouse or partner. Others may seek psychotherapy to help themselves grow, deal with anger, or overcome patterns of behaviors or ways of being with others that don't work any more. Some people seek psychotherapy because someone close to them insisted they call me. I enjoy working with all of these presenting concerns.
(336) 270-9959 View (336) 270-9959
Photo of Christine E. Murray, LCMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Christine E. Murray
Counselor, LCMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27404  (Online Only)
I'm Christine Murray (she/her/hers), the Founder of Start Here Counseling & Consulting, PLLC (www.starthereandnow.com). I'm on a mission to promote mental health, healthy relationships, and thriving communities. I have over two decades of experience working in the mental health field. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina, as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in my home state of Pennsylvania.
I'm Christine Murray (she/her/hers), the Founder of Start Here Counseling & Consulting, PLLC (www.starthereandnow.com). I'm on a mission to promote mental health, healthy relationships, and thriving communities. I have over two decades of experience working in the mental health field. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina, as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in my home state of Pennsylvania.
(980) 375-7657 View (980) 375-7657
Photo of Kennedy Guidry, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kennedy Guidry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
My goal is to walk alongside you during a time of healing and seeking connection. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA) in North Carolina, as well as a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator. My interests lie in populations such as emerging/young adulthood; premarital, marital, and couples counseling; and difficulties surrounding life transitions. I offer in-person and Telehealth sessions throughout the week.
My goal is to walk alongside you during a time of healing and seeking connection. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA) in North Carolina, as well as a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator. My interests lie in populations such as emerging/young adulthood; premarital, marital, and couples counseling; and difficulties surrounding life transitions. I offer in-person and Telehealth sessions throughout the week.
(336) 438-8652 View (336) 438-8652
Photo of Allison M Pow, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Allison M Pow
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
Have you lost touch with who you are? Have you given so much of yourself to everyone else that you don't know how you got here... or how to get back to YOU? I provide depth-oriented counseling for survivors of traumatic relationships, disrupted attachments, and developmental wounds. I also specialize in perinatal trauma and work with parents who have experienced trauma during pregnancy or the birth of a child. My approach is based in attachment theory and influenced by current research on attachment, emotion regulation, and the mind-body connection.
Have you lost touch with who you are? Have you given so much of yourself to everyone else that you don't know how you got here... or how to get back to YOU? I provide depth-oriented counseling for survivors of traumatic relationships, disrupted attachments, and developmental wounds. I also specialize in perinatal trauma and work with parents who have experienced trauma during pregnancy or the birth of a child. My approach is based in attachment theory and influenced by current research on attachment, emotion regulation, and the mind-body connection.
(336) 203-5305 View (336) 203-5305
Photo of Amy O'Hearn, MSW, LCAS, LCSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Amy O'Hearn
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Are you struggling with anxiety, social settings, negative self-talk, guilt, shame, or substance use? Would you like help developing healthy coping skills, learning how to change your self-talk and behaviors? Do you have difficulty feeling confident making choices in your life? Have you experienced a recent illness or health diagnosis that you are having difficulty processing? If so, I would love to help explore these areas with you and assist you in developing a plan that allows you to accomplish your goals. We will work together to develop a plan for you and allow you to persevere through your challenges.
Are you struggling with anxiety, social settings, negative self-talk, guilt, shame, or substance use? Would you like help developing healthy coping skills, learning how to change your self-talk and behaviors? Do you have difficulty feeling confident making choices in your life? Have you experienced a recent illness or health diagnosis that you are having difficulty processing? If so, I would love to help explore these areas with you and assist you in developing a plan that allows you to accomplish your goals. We will work together to develop a plan for you and allow you to persevere through your challenges.
(336) 810-0157 View (336) 810-0157
Photo of Dr. Mark Bell, PhD, LCMHCS
Dr. Mark Bell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
Bell's Global Academy is offering educational testing, clinical testing of personal characteristics, diagnostic evaluation, and biopsychosocial assessment services to clients of all ages. Dr. Bell specializes in ADHD, Autism, IQ, personality, emotion, behavior, and cognition assessment, and has over 14 years experience in providing comprehensive clinical assessments and diagnostic evaluations to populations of all age ranges and backgrounds.
Bell's Global Academy is offering educational testing, clinical testing of personal characteristics, diagnostic evaluation, and biopsychosocial assessment services to clients of all ages. Dr. Bell specializes in ADHD, Autism, IQ, personality, emotion, behavior, and cognition assessment, and has over 14 years experience in providing comprehensive clinical assessments and diagnostic evaluations to populations of all age ranges and backgrounds.
(336) 753-5237 View (336) 753-5237
Photo of Beth Colomb Kincaid, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Beth Colomb Kincaid
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
Not accepting new clients
I strive to provide a private, informal and comfortable office setting where my clients can expect to be treated with respect and dignity while facing life's challenges. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Some of my interests include: Self esteem, career/work, aging, stress and anger management, women's issues, eating disorders, addiction, conduct disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, life coaching, assertiveness training, parenting and relationship skills, marital, pre-marital or divorce issues, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, dependency; emotional, sexual and physical abuse, trauma and ADHD.
I strive to provide a private, informal and comfortable office setting where my clients can expect to be treated with respect and dignity while facing life's challenges. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Some of my interests include: Self esteem, career/work, aging, stress and anger management, women's issues, eating disorders, addiction, conduct disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, life coaching, assertiveness training, parenting and relationship skills, marital, pre-marital or divorce issues, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, dependency; emotional, sexual and physical abuse, trauma and ADHD.
(336) 396-2139 View (336) 396-2139
Photo of Timothy Covington, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
Timothy Covington
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27407
Waitlist for new clients
If you're scrolling this website because you know you need help, but you don't know where to start. You're in the right place and I feel confident I can help you. As a husband, believer, and person with hearing loss, I get it, life is far from easy. I've had my fair share of challenges navigating the ups and downs of life with no clear roadmap. I also remember my days of not believing counseling could help me and then I started my journey to becoming a therapist and my life changed.
If you're scrolling this website because you know you need help, but you don't know where to start. You're in the right place and I feel confident I can help you. As a husband, believer, and person with hearing loss, I get it, life is far from easy. I've had my fair share of challenges navigating the ups and downs of life with no clear roadmap. I also remember my days of not believing counseling could help me and then I started my journey to becoming a therapist and my life changed.
(336) 810-1118 View (336) 810-1118
Photo of Debi Pruitt, LCMHC, MA, MEd, ICST
Debi Pruitt
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, MEd, ICST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
As a Neurodivergent Therapist, I specialize in Neurodivergent Educators, and other Neurodivergent Folx! Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and stress? Struggling with adjustment, dealing w/past trauma, drowning in depression? I can help you work through these challenges, focusing on your strengths, while healing trauma, finding clarity, understanding the "why", and strengthening relationship. A retired teacher and former school-based therapist, I have the expertise to support you in your journey toward positive change, so you can feel in control, empowered, and at peace. Our challenges are not readily understood by everyone!
As a Neurodivergent Therapist, I specialize in Neurodivergent Educators, and other Neurodivergent Folx! Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and stress? Struggling with adjustment, dealing w/past trauma, drowning in depression? I can help you work through these challenges, focusing on your strengths, while healing trauma, finding clarity, understanding the "why", and strengthening relationship. A retired teacher and former school-based therapist, I have the expertise to support you in your journey toward positive change, so you can feel in control, empowered, and at peace. Our challenges are not readily understood by everyone!
(336) 542-3349 View (336) 542-3349
Photo of Jenna Renfroe - Tailored Brain Health, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Tailored Brain Health
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Are you a so-called empath, overachiever, perfectionist or riddled with anxiety? Has life just become too much and you need some space to process it? Do you or someone you love have a brain health challenge? Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury/concussion, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, ADHD, problems with concentration or memory? Good news. I’m a board-certified neuropsychologist and we can handle that together. I know what these challenges mean - scientifically, and how they affect your day-to-day and relationships.
Are you a so-called empath, overachiever, perfectionist or riddled with anxiety? Has life just become too much and you need some space to process it? Do you or someone you love have a brain health challenge? Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury/concussion, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, ADHD, problems with concentration or memory? Good news. I’m a board-certified neuropsychologist and we can handle that together. I know what these challenges mean - scientifically, and how they affect your day-to-day and relationships.
(336) 739-6079 View (336) 739-6079
Photo of Imani Brown, MS, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Imani Brown
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27409  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you have to appear to have it all together when inside you are struggling? You may feel lonely and misunderstood. When you look in the mirror you may not recognize the person looking back at you. Going through the motions of everyday life feels exhausting. You’ve been running on autopilot and are headed toward burnout. Relationships may be harder to maintain as well as the relationship with yourself.
Do you feel like you have to appear to have it all together when inside you are struggling? You may feel lonely and misunderstood. When you look in the mirror you may not recognize the person looking back at you. Going through the motions of everyday life feels exhausting. You’ve been running on autopilot and are headed toward burnout. Relationships may be harder to maintain as well as the relationship with yourself.
(336) 948-9709 View (336) 948-9709
Photo of Kelly Schaller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Schaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407
I specialize in Trauma, Veteran, and LGBQ+ & T issues, as well as Anxiety/Depression and Political/Religious Trauma in teens, adults, elders, and couples. I can help alleviate consistent anxiety and feelings of depression that come from the past experiences and fears about the future. I understand the demands of marriage and parenting as well as those compounded by the military. I work with those navigating through divorce and child custody as well. I am retired from the United States Air Force and can assist in navigating the military/VA disability path...
I specialize in Trauma, Veteran, and LGBQ+ & T issues, as well as Anxiety/Depression and Political/Religious Trauma in teens, adults, elders, and couples. I can help alleviate consistent anxiety and feelings of depression that come from the past experiences and fears about the future. I understand the demands of marriage and parenting as well as those compounded by the military. I work with those navigating through divorce and child custody as well. I am retired from the United States Air Force and can assist in navigating the military/VA disability path...
(336) 604-0397 View (336) 604-0397
Photo of Pam Ladetto - Guilford Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guilford Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Hey there! If trauma symptoms interfere or disrupt your day to day life, I can help. I truly enjoy working with others who have experienced traumatic events in their lives. I use a phenomenal trauma treatment, called Brainspotting. I can attest to its effectiveness, because it worked for me.
Hey there! If trauma symptoms interfere or disrupt your day to day life, I can help. I truly enjoy working with others who have experienced traumatic events in their lives. I use a phenomenal trauma treatment, called Brainspotting. I can attest to its effectiveness, because it worked for me.
(336) 396-2581 View (336) 396-2581
Photo of Catherine E Tanner-Harron, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine E Tanner-Harron
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I provide counseling for couples, adults, and teenagers. After 20 years of practice I’ve had the most experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, codependency and post traumatic stress disorder. I also have extensive experience counseling people who are going through life transitions, and relationship issues. In a supportive environment I assist clients in gaining insight into their problems. After acquiring a better understanding of the clients situation I will offer options and coping skills to help them solve their problems.
I provide counseling for couples, adults, and teenagers. After 20 years of practice I’ve had the most experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, codependency and post traumatic stress disorder. I also have extensive experience counseling people who are going through life transitions, and relationship issues. In a supportive environment I assist clients in gaining insight into their problems. After acquiring a better understanding of the clients situation I will offer options and coping skills to help them solve their problems.
(336) 792-2655 View (336) 792-2655
Photo of Kate Sweatt, LCMHC, Counselor
Kate Sweatt
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Meet Kate Sweatt, a compassionate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 6 years of mental health experience. Kate guides individuals through an array of challenges, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, stress management, and coping skills. Kate is also dedicated to providing LGBTQIA+-affirming therapy, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for clients of all backgrounds.
Meet Kate Sweatt, a compassionate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 6 years of mental health experience. Kate guides individuals through an array of challenges, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, stress management, and coping skills. Kate is also dedicated to providing LGBTQIA+-affirming therapy, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for clients of all backgrounds.
(336) 559-4185 View (336) 559-4185
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Greensboro, NC

800+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Greensboro, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
78% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
73% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Aetna
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Greensboro, NC see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Greensboro?

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.