Therapists in West Des Moines, IA
![Photo of Christy J Meyer, LMHC, LMHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fae29c0b-b0c0-4cca-ab82-88a4140b1214/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Christy Meyer. I have been a therapist for 25 years but my best experience in life is my experience as a mother. I have worked in parent education, I have experience as an adoptive mother and a foster mom. I love working with individuals in life transitions, I have worked with many people who have experienced significant trauma. I teach parenting, communication and train foster parents. I have been part of the first responder mental health community in Des Moines for the past 8 years. I am CISM certified in debriefing of critical incidents.
My name is Christy Meyer. I have been a therapist for 25 years but my best experience in life is my experience as a mother. I have worked in parent education, I have experience as an adoptive mother and a foster mom. I love working with individuals in life transitions, I have worked with many people who have experienced significant trauma. I teach parenting, communication and train foster parents. I have been part of the first responder mental health community in Des Moines for the past 8 years. I am CISM certified in debriefing of critical incidents.
![Photo of Chad Peters, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/971cccd9-c715-43c2-a1ea-7fe6a5863328/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of focus are LGBTQIA+ issues, loss and grief, anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues. I work primarily with adults and LGBTQIA+ people of all ages.
My areas of focus are LGBTQIA+ issues, loss and grief, anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues. I work primarily with adults and LGBTQIA+ people of all ages.
![Photo of Jessica Galvin, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45205b42-a6d1-4d27-a834-9d5480217817/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Galvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience bumps and bruises throughout our lives. These bumps and bruises can damage our relationship and alignment with ourselves. We can feel lost, aimlessly wandering around trying to rediscover ourselves. You don't deserve to walk through life just surviving, but rather living with vibrancy and empowered by self-worth. I know how daunting this can be when you have lost sight of who you once were or who you want to become. I work from an open-minded, non-judgmental framework. I believe in a true therapeutic partnership with my clients. Growth fosters growth! Let's grow together to become the best versions of ourselves.
We all experience bumps and bruises throughout our lives. These bumps and bruises can damage our relationship and alignment with ourselves. We can feel lost, aimlessly wandering around trying to rediscover ourselves. You don't deserve to walk through life just surviving, but rather living with vibrancy and empowered by self-worth. I know how daunting this can be when you have lost sight of who you once were or who you want to become. I work from an open-minded, non-judgmental framework. I believe in a true therapeutic partnership with my clients. Growth fosters growth! Let's grow together to become the best versions of ourselves.
![Photo of Zoey Erixon, MSW, LISW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/028d9ca5-8fd6-478c-8305-96797ef85172/7/320x400.jpeg)
Zoey Erixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
It is a gift to feel connected to the inner self, and healing occurs in connection with others. Each day, I aim to help my clients deepen their connections with themselves and others, utilizing a holistic perspective that focuses on emotions, body sensations, thoughts and behaviors. I offer compassionate support and therapeutic tools while you take the brave steps of this journey.
It is a gift to feel connected to the inner self, and healing occurs in connection with others. Each day, I aim to help my clients deepen their connections with themselves and others, utilizing a holistic perspective that focuses on emotions, body sensations, thoughts and behaviors. I offer compassionate support and therapeutic tools while you take the brave steps of this journey.
Chelyne J. Cunningham-Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I have been practicing for the last decade as a clinical social worker. I take pride in assisting clients in engaging in the therapeutic process to foster personal growth and transformation. My personal and professional view of psychotherapy is one that includes a journey of self-reflection and overall life functioning improvement.
I have been practicing for the last decade as a clinical social worker. I take pride in assisting clients in engaging in the therapeutic process to foster personal growth and transformation. My personal and professional view of psychotherapy is one that includes a journey of self-reflection and overall life functioning improvement.
![Photo of Erik Oostenink - Erik Oostenink, LMHC, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86429469-fda4-4e8f-871a-b6cbd8e643a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erik Oostenink, LMHC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
![Photo of Alli Conrad, LISW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4871d21a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alli Conrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of challenges. I especially enjoy working with kids using play-based interventions. Play therapy is an approach to counseling that allows children to use toys and other play materials to express their thoughts and feelings. I am a registered play therapist with many hours of specialized training in play therapy techniques. I am also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of challenges. I especially enjoy working with kids using play-based interventions. Play therapy is an approach to counseling that allows children to use toys and other play materials to express their thoughts and feelings. I am a registered play therapist with many hours of specialized training in play therapy techniques. I am also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
![Photo of Danielle Cooper, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d9d3e4-5dc3-47f5-9f44-8b8f3ee25820/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients! As a therapist, my goal is to help you feel seen and heard in wherever you are in your journey. I believe each individual's story is both powerful and unique. I strive to provide a warm, welcoming environment where you feel safe to process any of life's struggles. I’m an active therapist that offers tools, action plans and homework based upon my client’s needs, but am also happy just listening and providing support. I have years of experience in multiple clinical settings, and use various evidence-based approaches to support you.
Currently accepting new clients! As a therapist, my goal is to help you feel seen and heard in wherever you are in your journey. I believe each individual's story is both powerful and unique. I strive to provide a warm, welcoming environment where you feel safe to process any of life's struggles. I’m an active therapist that offers tools, action plans and homework based upon my client’s needs, but am also happy just listening and providing support. I have years of experience in multiple clinical settings, and use various evidence-based approaches to support you.
![Photo of Jennie Pedersen-Coulter, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80fcc021-e26e-4888-b039-80acf0446396/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional serving West Des Moines and the surrounding areas. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach. I feel passionate about creating a safe space where you can express your concerns, feel heard and understood, and work towards your desired goals. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on a variety of issues and concerns including but not limited to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-worth, relationship/communication issues, life transitions and stress management.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional serving West Des Moines and the surrounding areas. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach. I feel passionate about creating a safe space where you can express your concerns, feel heard and understood, and work towards your desired goals. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on a variety of issues and concerns including but not limited to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-worth, relationship/communication issues, life transitions and stress management.
![Photo of John Bigelow Jr., PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18921554-cd4e-45a5-87e3-2296d981aafa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in community mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma and coping with stress and life challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in community mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma and coping with stress and life challenges.
![Photo of Susan C Helkenn, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c758f70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan C Helkenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Every person has the ability to live a happier, more productive life--you just need the right tools! At Innovative Learning Professionals, I use proven, traditional and non-traditional approaches to improve functioning and lives. In a casual, non-judgmental setting, I meet with school-age children, teens, and adults of all ages. Whatever your struggle-- anxiety or worry, school or work, depression or low mood, relationships or loneliness, parenting or parents--- we can find ways to improve mood, behavior, thinking, and your life. Please feel free to email or call to talk about scheduling.
Every person has the ability to live a happier, more productive life--you just need the right tools! At Innovative Learning Professionals, I use proven, traditional and non-traditional approaches to improve functioning and lives. In a casual, non-judgmental setting, I meet with school-age children, teens, and adults of all ages. Whatever your struggle-- anxiety or worry, school or work, depression or low mood, relationships or loneliness, parenting or parents--- we can find ways to improve mood, behavior, thinking, and your life. Please feel free to email or call to talk about scheduling.
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![Photo of Jenny S Thorn, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dafaf4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Making the decision to seek counseling can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. It can be difficult to ask for help and know where to begin. It is my goal to help make this process a less frightening one and help you improve your life and personal well-being. Together we will identify the issues you would like to work on and determine a plan to help you reach your goals.
Making the decision to seek counseling can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. It can be difficult to ask for help and know where to begin. It is my goal to help make this process a less frightening one and help you improve your life and personal well-being. Together we will identify the issues you would like to work on and determine a plan to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Molly Stagner, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6ccfc46-bc80-454f-a4f0-823b0a3895b9/3/320x400.jpeg)
It can be difficult to begin the therapy process, I can assist you with the support you need throughout the journey. I provide individual and family counseling. I can effectively work with adolescents (ages 16 and older) and adults of any race, gender, or sexual orientation. My areas of specialty include: PTSD, childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, relationship issues, familial issues, life transitions, and adolescent issues.
It can be difficult to begin the therapy process, I can assist you with the support you need throughout the journey. I provide individual and family counseling. I can effectively work with adolescents (ages 16 and older) and adults of any race, gender, or sexual orientation. My areas of specialty include: PTSD, childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, relationship issues, familial issues, life transitions, and adolescent issues.
Christine Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking therapy is part of a healthy self-advocacy strategy where we center our own well-being in order to more fully enjoy life. Through compassionate, honest therapy we can learn to become present to ourselves in ways that allow us to become more fully present for others. Whether you're facing a life-changing transition, one of the many forms of grief, or are in need of a new personal compass, I am ready to listen and guide. With radical empathy, concrete strategies and over 33 years of experience, I look forward to learning your story and walking this journey alongside you.
Seeking therapy is part of a healthy self-advocacy strategy where we center our own well-being in order to more fully enjoy life. Through compassionate, honest therapy we can learn to become present to ourselves in ways that allow us to become more fully present for others. Whether you're facing a life-changing transition, one of the many forms of grief, or are in need of a new personal compass, I am ready to listen and guide. With radical empathy, concrete strategies and over 33 years of experience, I look forward to learning your story and walking this journey alongside you.
![Photo of Angela La Luzerne, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59a4ad93-0a3b-44eb-8c8e-3630730b4055/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela La Luzerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
![Photo of Michael Davis, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45fb3b74-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe good therapy starts with building a trusting relationship. I create a safe, judgement free environment to help build this relationship. Sometimes the thought of reaching your goals seems impossible. Whatever your concerns are, I want to listen and help you find solutions and results to your goals. I'm passionate about working with young adults, autism disorders, motivational issues, and anxiety. I have 16 years of experience working with adolescents, life stressors, autism disorders, depression, and anxiety. My biggest passion in working with people is helping you gain a sense of purpose.
I believe good therapy starts with building a trusting relationship. I create a safe, judgement free environment to help build this relationship. Sometimes the thought of reaching your goals seems impossible. Whatever your concerns are, I want to listen and help you find solutions and results to your goals. I'm passionate about working with young adults, autism disorders, motivational issues, and anxiety. I have 16 years of experience working with adolescents, life stressors, autism disorders, depression, and anxiety. My biggest passion in working with people is helping you gain a sense of purpose.
![Photo of Kevin D West, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50fa76c5-d8a4-4f87-a8ad-3804aa4fa48a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin D West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I specialize working with adults and children (ages 8 to 17) with a focus in the areas of anxiety, anger control, parenting, ADHD, relationships and depression. Everyone has points in their lives where they may question themselves or have to deal with difficult situations they may, or may not, have been expecting. I want to help people find ways to help them realize their potential. I work with clients by exploring and educating them about the strengths they already have and how they can be a force for positive change.
I specialize working with adults and children (ages 8 to 17) with a focus in the areas of anxiety, anger control, parenting, ADHD, relationships and depression. Everyone has points in their lives where they may question themselves or have to deal with difficult situations they may, or may not, have been expecting. I want to help people find ways to help them realize their potential. I work with clients by exploring and educating them about the strengths they already have and how they can be a force for positive change.
![Photo of Erica Hecht Kehrberg, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee7006d4-f74c-4bfa-8bd5-cd251506a96e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Hecht Kehrberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking help with life challenges can be intimidating. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where people feel comfortable to explore their struggles, reach their goals and find hope that leads to healing. Over the years in a variety of social service roles assisting children and families, I have learned that it is essential to find the right person with whom you can build an authentic connection and from whom you can receive support. I believe we can find that connection together.
Seeking help with life challenges can be intimidating. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where people feel comfortable to explore their struggles, reach their goals and find hope that leads to healing. Over the years in a variety of social service roles assisting children and families, I have learned that it is essential to find the right person with whom you can build an authentic connection and from whom you can receive support. I believe we can find that connection together.
![Photo of Abby Singleton, MA, tLMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6b50fac-400c-4fbd-9d0f-2ebd5f4dda34/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and believe that everyone deserves a safe and affirming space to feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. I am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist with a psychodynamic background. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify therapeutic interventions and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
Accepting new clients! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and believe that everyone deserves a safe and affirming space to feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. I am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist with a psychodynamic background. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify therapeutic interventions and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
![Photo of Jenna Frieden, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a84d982-d9df-4441-ba5b-c83d9471d30f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Frieden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Accepting new clients! It is an honor that you are considering me as a therapist. I strive to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment for all of my clients and their families. I am a compassionate person with a warm personality. I typically use cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT), sand tray, child centered play therapy, and other play-based interventions in my therapy sessions. I invite your feedback throughout the therapeutic process and modify therapeutic interventions depending on your specific wants and needs.
Accepting new clients! It is an honor that you are considering me as a therapist. I strive to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment for all of my clients and their families. I am a compassionate person with a warm personality. I typically use cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT), sand tray, child centered play therapy, and other play-based interventions in my therapy sessions. I invite your feedback throughout the therapeutic process and modify therapeutic interventions depending on your specific wants and needs.
See more therapy options for West Des Moines
Nearby Searches for West Des Moines
- Ankeny
- Beaverdale
- Clive
- Des Moines
- Grimes
- Johnston
- Norwalk
- Pleasant Hill
- Polk City
- Urbandale
- Waukee
- Windsor Heights
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in West Des Moines, IA
300+
Average cost per session
$158
Therapists in West Des Moines, IA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
78% | Self Esteem |
77% | Relationship Issues |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Stress |
71% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
83% | Wellmark BCBS |
50% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in West Des Moines, IA see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in West Des Moines?
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
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.
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.
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.