Therapists in Temple, TX

Photo of Crystal M Hicks - Monarch Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal M Hicks - Monarch Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
I'm here to offer a compassionate ear and support to both adolescents and adults who are facing life's challenges. Whether it's dealing with stress, grief, relationships, suicidal ideation, addiction, or the lingering effects of trauma. I'm here to provide you with guidance and counseling, either one-on-one or in a small group setting. Remember, you're not alone, and I'm here to help you navigate through these difficulties and find a path forward.
I'm here to offer a compassionate ear and support to both adolescents and adults who are facing life's challenges. Whether it's dealing with stress, grief, relationships, suicidal ideation, addiction, or the lingering effects of trauma. I'm here to provide you with guidance and counseling, either one-on-one or in a small group setting. Remember, you're not alone, and I'm here to help you navigate through these difficulties and find a path forward.
(254) 735-2522 View (254) 735-2522
Photo of Summer Wright, MMFT, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Summer Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76504
Not accepting new clients
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to supporting children, individuals, couples, and families through challenging times. I am here to offer you a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards your preferred future. Through our work together, you can find the strength and resilience to overcome difficulties and find peace.
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to supporting children, individuals, couples, and families through challenging times. I am here to offer you a safe and confidential space where you can explore your unique challenges and work towards your preferred future. Through our work together, you can find the strength and resilience to overcome difficulties and find peace.
(254) 329-2458 View (254) 329-2458
Photo of Shayla Wilson, MSW , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shayla Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Are you struggling with navigating life and its challenges? From parenting, relationships and social stressors, a series of mental, physical, emotional, developmental, and social changes have been happening that can be simultaneously beautiful and challenging. Such changes often unfold within a system that doesn’t necessarily support your feelings and thoughts. As a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, I work toward creating a warm, supportive, and welcoming environment where healing and growth are encouraged.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Are you struggling with navigating life and its challenges? From parenting, relationships and social stressors, a series of mental, physical, emotional, developmental, and social changes have been happening that can be simultaneously beautiful and challenging. Such changes often unfold within a system that doesn’t necessarily support your feelings and thoughts. As a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, I work toward creating a warm, supportive, and welcoming environment where healing and growth are encouraged.
(737) 637-4428 View (737) 637-4428
Photo of Maegan McNeese, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maegan McNeese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Maegan McNeese is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She has a Bachelors and Masters in Social Work. Maegan works hard to build a great therapeutic relationship with clients. She wants their sessions to be based on mutual trust and understanding that the client holds the power to make positive changes in their life. They work together with Maegan to uncover thought patterns, past experiences that have played a role in development, and tools to overcome internal and external obstacles.
Maegan McNeese is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who has been practicing since 2024. She has a Bachelors and Masters in Social Work. Maegan works hard to build a great therapeutic relationship with clients. She wants their sessions to be based on mutual trust and understanding that the client holds the power to make positive changes in their life. They work together with Maegan to uncover thought patterns, past experiences that have played a role in development, and tools to overcome internal and external obstacles.
(254) 212-3941 View (254) 212-3941
Photo of Tammy Nicholes - Nicholes Counseling, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicholes Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76501  (Online Only)
Counseling provides a safe place to process those things that are having an impact on your life and affecting your emotional or physical well being. Whether through individual or relationship counseling, sessions will be geared to help you discover a more desired outcome to your daily routine.
Counseling provides a safe place to process those things that are having an impact on your life and affecting your emotional or physical well being. Whether through individual or relationship counseling, sessions will be geared to help you discover a more desired outcome to your daily routine.
(254) 232-5418 View (254) 232-5418
Photo of Mariana Gutierrez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariana Gutierrez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Hello! My name is Mariana Gutierrez, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working in the Central Texas area. Life can feel difficult and overwhelming at times. Whether this is managing stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, depression or trauma. I believe in providing a supportive, safe and nonjudgmental environment in which we work in a collaborative manner to problem-solve, improve coping skills and find the support you need.
Hello! My name is Mariana Gutierrez, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working in the Central Texas area. Life can feel difficult and overwhelming at times. Whether this is managing stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, depression or trauma. I believe in providing a supportive, safe and nonjudgmental environment in which we work in a collaborative manner to problem-solve, improve coping skills and find the support you need.
(254) 249-4513 View (254) 249-4513
Photo of Kimberly Vance, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Vance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Kim Vance is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master of Social Work from the University of New England and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Pacific Lutheran University. While her credentials make her a therapist, Kim prefers to think of herself as another human being lucky to join people on their journey. You can find her sitting on the floor with kiddos, listening to music with teenagers after a rough session, and tearing up with families as she witnesses them grow together.
Kim Vance is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master of Social Work from the University of New England and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Pacific Lutheran University. While her credentials make her a therapist, Kim prefers to think of herself as another human being lucky to join people on their journey. You can find her sitting on the floor with kiddos, listening to music with teenagers after a rough session, and tearing up with families as she witnesses them grow together.
(254) 540-5973 View (254) 540-5973
Photo of Jerimiah Woods, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerimiah Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
Your life is unique and has a special set of circumstances. We often run into roadblocks on our journey that we need help managing. My goal would be to help you to grow into an individual who can navigate their life with confidence, happiness, and success. I am very passionate about helping my clients. Working together is important. You are the expert of your life and I am the expert in counseling. Your thoughts, values and goals are essential to the process. We will tackle your life challenges together in an effort to ease your stress, calm your fears and help you grow as a person. I look forward to working with you.
Your life is unique and has a special set of circumstances. We often run into roadblocks on our journey that we need help managing. My goal would be to help you to grow into an individual who can navigate their life with confidence, happiness, and success. I am very passionate about helping my clients. Working together is important. You are the expert of your life and I am the expert in counseling. Your thoughts, values and goals are essential to the process. We will tackle your life challenges together in an effort to ease your stress, calm your fears and help you grow as a person. I look forward to working with you.
(254) 410-1493 View (254) 410-1493
Photo of Susan Quintana, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Quintana
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Susan E. Quintana is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, who holds a Master's in Education Counseling and Psychology received in 1994. She has 20 years + experience with ages of all ranges. She enjoys working with children ages 6-17, adults 18-65+ and senior citizens and their families. Ms. Quintana has a natural ability for helping children who feel lost, lonely, anxious or transitioning to an adoptive home. She also has 12 years' experience working with Bi-Polar, Schizophrenia,Depression, and Mood Disorders.
Susan E. Quintana is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, who holds a Master's in Education Counseling and Psychology received in 1994. She has 20 years + experience with ages of all ranges. She enjoys working with children ages 6-17, adults 18-65+ and senior citizens and their families. Ms. Quintana has a natural ability for helping children who feel lost, lonely, anxious or transitioning to an adoptive home. She also has 12 years' experience working with Bi-Polar, Schizophrenia,Depression, and Mood Disorders.
(254) 276-2633 View (254) 276-2633
Photo of Caryn R Nigliazzo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caryn R Nigliazzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76504
My educational background includes an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and an M.A. in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am focused on providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each individual's needs. As a provider of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I offer evidence-based approaches to address behavioral, anxiety, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages.
My educational background includes an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and an M.A. in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am focused on providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each individual's needs. As a provider of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I offer evidence-based approaches to address behavioral, anxiety, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages.
(254) 637-3543 x100 View (254) 637-3543 x100
Photo of Steven Brodie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven Brodie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502  (Online Only)
Have you or your child been experiencing anxiety, grief, or change in mood and behavior? Was there any past trauma to address? If you answered yes and are looking to create change and live a balanced emotional and behavioral life it can be achieved. You can live a healthy balanced life and feel the control that you are looking for. Your life has multiple ups and downs throughout your story. At times it can feel like you are not in control of things that you believe "should come easy". You have already taken the first two steps. First recognizing things are not the way you want them to be and secondly searching for answers and help.
Have you or your child been experiencing anxiety, grief, or change in mood and behavior? Was there any past trauma to address? If you answered yes and are looking to create change and live a balanced emotional and behavioral life it can be achieved. You can live a healthy balanced life and feel the control that you are looking for. Your life has multiple ups and downs throughout your story. At times it can feel like you are not in control of things that you believe "should come easy". You have already taken the first two steps. First recognizing things are not the way you want them to be and secondly searching for answers and help.
(254) 276-2531 View (254) 276-2531
Photo of Daniel Lairmore, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Lairmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Daniel Lairmore is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Daniel is a trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ ally, person-centered therapist with a background in community mental health, inpatient mental health/crisis stabilization, outpatient therapy, and substance use therapy. This background gives Daniel a wide array of experiences from which to draw wisdom and understanding, which allows him to better reach each individual patient where they are.
Daniel Lairmore is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2020. Daniel is a trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ ally, person-centered therapist with a background in community mental health, inpatient mental health/crisis stabilization, outpatient therapy, and substance use therapy. This background gives Daniel a wide array of experiences from which to draw wisdom and understanding, which allows him to better reach each individual patient where they are.
(254) 455-6225 View (254) 455-6225
Photo of Dr. Tara Stark, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tara Stark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I love working with individuals from every walk of life; different generations, cultures, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, you name it. I've always said that I can learn as much from you and your experiences as you can learn from me. I will meet you where you are and find the approach best suited for you. I'm here to help you manage your day to day life, achieving any mental health goal you may have. I will guide you through challenging times, promote personal growth, and help alleviate any suffering. If you're willing to put in the work, even if you're hesitant, let's put our effort together and accomplish your goals.
I love working with individuals from every walk of life; different generations, cultures, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, you name it. I've always said that I can learn as much from you and your experiences as you can learn from me. I will meet you where you are and find the approach best suited for you. I'm here to help you manage your day to day life, achieving any mental health goal you may have. I will guide you through challenging times, promote personal growth, and help alleviate any suffering. If you're willing to put in the work, even if you're hesitant, let's put our effort together and accomplish your goals.
(254) 455-6464 View (254) 455-6464
Photo of Eleanor D Hamilton, PhD, LPC,  , LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleanor D Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, , LMHC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
My specialties include: psychological trauma (childhood, combat, assault, accidents, surgical), addiction, mood conditions (anxiety, depression), stress management, anger management, relationship challenges, diverse cultures and finding meaning/purpose in life. I am Certified in Brain Spotting, Military Counseling, Anger Management and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) through the Army. My approach to therapy is Integrative/Holistic from a mind/body perspective. In addition to the above, I have two-and-one-half years of Post Doctoral Training in Jungian/Archetypal Psychology.
My specialties include: psychological trauma (childhood, combat, assault, accidents, surgical), addiction, mood conditions (anxiety, depression), stress management, anger management, relationship challenges, diverse cultures and finding meaning/purpose in life. I am Certified in Brain Spotting, Military Counseling, Anger Management and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) through the Army. My approach to therapy is Integrative/Holistic from a mind/body perspective. In addition to the above, I have two-and-one-half years of Post Doctoral Training in Jungian/Archetypal Psychology.
(254) 274-3912 View (254) 274-3912
Photo of Nikita Tate-Casanova, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nikita Tate-Casanova
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
Dr. Nikita Tate-Casanova is an LMFT practicing for over 10 years. She uses several therapeutic techniques dependent upon clients’ needs, including CBT, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Positive Psychology. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families across the life span. Nikita has worked in private practice, church settings, inpatient acute/residential treatment programs, intensive outpatient programs, and partial hospitalization programs. She believes in holistic wellness that focuses on clients’ mental health improvement, somatic relief, spiritual connectivity, and positive self-image.
Dr. Nikita Tate-Casanova is an LMFT practicing for over 10 years. She uses several therapeutic techniques dependent upon clients’ needs, including CBT, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Positive Psychology. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families across the life span. Nikita has worked in private practice, church settings, inpatient acute/residential treatment programs, intensive outpatient programs, and partial hospitalization programs. She believes in holistic wellness that focuses on clients’ mental health improvement, somatic relief, spiritual connectivity, and positive self-image.
(254) 277-6501 View (254) 277-6501
Photo of Kim Milliken, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Milliken
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Kim Milliken is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and History from Texas State University and a Master's of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University "“ Central Texas. She came to counseling later in life but has spent her entire adult career in the service of helping others in various forms and firmly believes in the importance of feeling safe, heard, and validated especially in a therapeutic, and oftentimes vulnerable, space.
Kim Milliken is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and History from Texas State University and a Master's of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University "“ Central Texas. She came to counseling later in life but has spent her entire adult career in the service of helping others in various forms and firmly believes in the importance of feeling safe, heard, and validated especially in a therapeutic, and oftentimes vulnerable, space.
(254) 632-5981 View (254) 632-5981
Photo of Felicia Burden, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicia Burden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76502
I am most drawn to working with clients who actively engage in the therapeutic process and demonstrate a willingness to confront challenges with openness and honesty. Clients who are motivated to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and actively participate in setting and working towards their therapeutic goals. Clients open to feedback, willing to try new strategies or techniques, and committed to personal growth and self-improvement. By collaborating with clients who are proactive and engaged, I believe we can cultivate a productive and enriching therapeutic relationship that promotes lasting change and fulfillment.
I am most drawn to working with clients who actively engage in the therapeutic process and demonstrate a willingness to confront challenges with openness and honesty. Clients who are motivated to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and actively participate in setting and working towards their therapeutic goals. Clients open to feedback, willing to try new strategies or techniques, and committed to personal growth and self-improvement. By collaborating with clients who are proactive and engaged, I believe we can cultivate a productive and enriching therapeutic relationship that promotes lasting change and fulfillment.
(254) 780-0028 View (254) 780-0028
Photo of Jacob Parks, MS, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacob Parks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76504
Life can often be unpredictable and more dynamic than we are sometimes able to handle on our own. It is very easy to feel stuck, lost, hopeless, and even overwhelmed if we believe that we lack the resources and know how to approach our adversities. In the face of our challenges it is sometimes difficult to identify helpful solutions. This is how I may be helpful to you. Together we could explore what's possible and investigate solutions that work.
Life can often be unpredictable and more dynamic than we are sometimes able to handle on our own. It is very easy to feel stuck, lost, hopeless, and even overwhelmed if we believe that we lack the resources and know how to approach our adversities. In the face of our challenges it is sometimes difficult to identify helpful solutions. This is how I may be helpful to you. Together we could explore what's possible and investigate solutions that work.
(254) 822-4378 View (254) 822-4378
Rivers Therapy and Assessments
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
We know that life can be challenging, and sometimes you need a little extra help to navigate through the tough times. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, or coping issues, we're here to offer you the compassionate care you deserve. Our ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life but may have felt held back by financial constraints or a lack of resources. You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in negative thought patterns, or struggling to manage your emotions. We are here to help.
We know that life can be challenging, and sometimes you need a little extra help to navigate through the tough times. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, or coping issues, we're here to offer you the compassionate care you deserve. Our ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life but may have felt held back by financial constraints or a lack of resources. You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in negative thought patterns, or struggling to manage your emotions. We are here to help.
(254) 277-4170 View (254) 277-4170
Photo of Katelyn Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katelyn Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76502
The purpose of therapy is to help you unravel what you want, identify what's holding you back, and make goals to acquire your fullest potential. Sometimes these goals are to seek deeper, more meaningful relationships with others and/or ourselves, become more accomplished in the things that matter most to us, or to manage the pain and discomfort of day-to-day life. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious/depressed, grieving, or just in need of a change, therapy might be worth pursuing!
The purpose of therapy is to help you unravel what you want, identify what's holding you back, and make goals to acquire your fullest potential. Sometimes these goals are to seek deeper, more meaningful relationships with others and/or ourselves, become more accomplished in the things that matter most to us, or to manage the pain and discomfort of day-to-day life. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious/depressed, grieving, or just in need of a change, therapy might be worth pursuing!
(254) 978-7307 View (254) 978-7307

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Temple, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$110

Therapists in Temple, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
70% Coping Skills
69% Relationship Issues
66% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
79% Aetna

How Therapists in Temple, TX see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Temple?

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.