Therapists in Chipley, FL

Photo of John Sundeen, LMHC, Counselor
John Sundeen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Thank you for looking at my profile. If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’re thinking about making changes. That’s a good thing! Life is about change (hopefully positive). However, sometimes we find ourselves stuck, distracted, side-tracked, lost, afraid, blocked, (insert your own word here), etc… You may have made efforts to change some things already with varying degrees of success and now you’re wondering what’s realistically possible. There is an important part of the change that often gets overlooked and doesn’t get the attention necessary for our efforts to be truly effective.
Thank you for looking at my profile. If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’re thinking about making changes. That’s a good thing! Life is about change (hopefully positive). However, sometimes we find ourselves stuck, distracted, side-tracked, lost, afraid, blocked, (insert your own word here), etc… You may have made efforts to change some things already with varying degrees of success and now you’re wondering what’s realistically possible. There is an important part of the change that often gets overlooked and doesn’t get the attention necessary for our efforts to be truly effective.
(850) 783-2812 View (850) 783-2812
Photo of Stacey D Pebbler, LMHC, Counselor
Stacey D Pebbler
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428  (Online Only)
My name is Stacey I am bilingual (Spanish and English). I provide virtual sessions. I am a LMHC and have experience working with clients and who struggle with substance addictions, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and trauma. I also volunteered as a guardian ad litem for 3 years and have been an advocate for children and families that need support.
My name is Stacey I am bilingual (Spanish and English). I provide virtual sessions. I am a LMHC and have experience working with clients and who struggle with substance addictions, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and trauma. I also volunteered as a guardian ad litem for 3 years and have been an advocate for children and families that need support.
(850) 495-7547 View (850) 495-7547
Photo of Deborah Simonds, LMHC
Deborah Simonds
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Deborah and I am glad you are here. I know it can be difficult to admit when we need help sometimes. Whether you have life long trauma or an acute situation that you need to work through, having an understanding counselor to help navigate you on your journey is priceless. Life is busy and we all get overloaded at times and need to decompress in ways that work for you as an individual. Learning how to ask for help is the beginning of a life changing experience for you. The ability to "let go", learn and move on is phenomenal in growing
Hi, I am Deborah and I am glad you are here. I know it can be difficult to admit when we need help sometimes. Whether you have life long trauma or an acute situation that you need to work through, having an understanding counselor to help navigate you on your journey is priceless. Life is busy and we all get overloaded at times and need to decompress in ways that work for you as an individual. Learning how to ask for help is the beginning of a life changing experience for you. The ability to "let go", learn and move on is phenomenal in growing
(850) 754-7702 View (850) 754-7702
Photo of Margaret Andem - Margaret Andem APRN, LCSW, APRN, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Andem APRN, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APRN, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428
I provide individual, couples, family, group therapy, medication management to children, adolescents, adults in the areas of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, addictions, dually-diagnosed, parenting, family issues, childhood issues, adolescent issues, behavior, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, loss/grief/bereavement, women's issues, relationships, self-esteem, self-image, codependency, dependency, anger management, stress management, time management, life skills, work issues. I provide psychoeducational groups and professional trainings. My focus in working with clients is to help them gain and maintain control in their lives despite past or present issues, and to deal with those issues appropriately.
I provide individual, couples, family, group therapy, medication management to children, adolescents, adults in the areas of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, addictions, dually-diagnosed, parenting, family issues, childhood issues, adolescent issues, behavior, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, loss/grief/bereavement, women's issues, relationships, self-esteem, self-image, codependency, dependency, anger management, stress management, time management, life skills, work issues. I provide psychoeducational groups and professional trainings. My focus in working with clients is to help them gain and maintain control in their lives despite past or present issues, and to deal with those issues appropriately.
(850) 573-2233 View (850) 573-2233
Photo of Josephine Rippey - AFCC, LMFT, PhD, LCPC, TCC, FCFM, Marriage & Family Therapist
AFCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, LCPC, TCC, FCFM
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428
I strongly believe that with every life challenge there is a positive outcome. I look forward to working together and turning rough seas into calmer waters. I provide premarital, marriage, couple, individual, teen, children, family counseling. I do NOT diagnosis, License MFT, Christian Counselor, Certified Family Mediator. Born Bronx, NY, lived Miami & understand diversity & the dynamics of blended families. Virtual sessions available. Two offices: Alford & Jax, Fl. Call for Appt- 904-250-1128, 1-844-288-8904, Email, TEXT 904 252-0701. www.christiancounselordirectory.com www.allfaithchristiancounseling.com - Se habla Espanol
I strongly believe that with every life challenge there is a positive outcome. I look forward to working together and turning rough seas into calmer waters. I provide premarital, marriage, couple, individual, teen, children, family counseling. I do NOT diagnosis, License MFT, Christian Counselor, Certified Family Mediator. Born Bronx, NY, lived Miami & understand diversity & the dynamics of blended families. Virtual sessions available. Two offices: Alford & Jax, Fl. Call for Appt- 904-250-1128, 1-844-288-8904, Email, TEXT 904 252-0701. www.christiancounselordirectory.com www.allfaithchristiancounseling.com - Se habla Espanol
(850) 820-2133 View (850) 820-2133
Photo of Alyssa Duesler, MA, RMHCI, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Duesler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428
Change is difficult and uncomfortable and things can become even harder when those around you don’t understand. You’re stuck in this cycle of addiction or negative thinking and sometimes it feels as though you will never get out of this pattern. You go around and around, you follow the steps, you read the books but it’s just not working and no one understands why that is. You’re thinking “maybe I’m just not cut out for this? Maybe I need this? I’m just broken.” But MAYBE you just haven’t found a solution that works for your needs. Let's find a solution that works for YOU.
Change is difficult and uncomfortable and things can become even harder when those around you don’t understand. You’re stuck in this cycle of addiction or negative thinking and sometimes it feels as though you will never get out of this pattern. You go around and around, you follow the steps, you read the books but it’s just not working and no one understands why that is. You’re thinking “maybe I’m just not cut out for this? Maybe I need this? I’m just broken.” But MAYBE you just haven’t found a solution that works for your needs. Let's find a solution that works for YOU.
(850) 988-3860 View (850) 988-3860
Photo of Michele Jacobson, LCMHC, Counselor
Michele Jacobson
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428
My name is Michele Jacobson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I am comfortable working with many kinds of challenges and welcome the opportunity to assist you. I would like to work together to discover the tools necessary for a new outlook in your life. I am here to assist with any issue affecting your well being and have expertise in stress management, anxiety and panic disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss issues as well as work/life balance and self care. I am experienced with life transitions whether it be college, new job, relationships, parenting issues, medical problems, empty nesters or retirement.
My name is Michele Jacobson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I am comfortable working with many kinds of challenges and welcome the opportunity to assist you. I would like to work together to discover the tools necessary for a new outlook in your life. I am here to assist with any issue affecting your well being and have expertise in stress management, anxiety and panic disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss issues as well as work/life balance and self care. I am experienced with life transitions whether it be college, new job, relationships, parenting issues, medical problems, empty nesters or retirement.
(786) 648-8202 View (786) 648-8202
Photo of Coleen L Hernandez, LMHC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Coleen L Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chipley, FL 32428
Have you ever felt like life is crashing down on you, everywhere you turn is a closed door? Or maybe you just need someone to talk to? Therapy can be your missing piece! This can be your open door. Divorce, kids, stress, work, trauma, or just life in general brings all of us on different journeys; therapy can help you gain healthy insight and learn positive coping strategies for wherever you are at in life.
Have you ever felt like life is crashing down on you, everywhere you turn is a closed door? Or maybe you just need someone to talk to? Therapy can be your missing piece! This can be your open door. Divorce, kids, stress, work, trauma, or just life in general brings all of us on different journeys; therapy can help you gain healthy insight and learn positive coping strategies for wherever you are at in life.
(850) 290-0541 View (850) 290-0541
Photo of Amy Gokey, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Gokey
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chipley, FL 32428
Welcome, my name is Amy Gokey, LMHC. With over 18 years of experience, my passion is helping people create change in their lives. I enjoy working with people struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, past trauma, or relationships issues. I utilize approaches from interpersonal process, attachment theory and cognitive behavioral therapy to help you identify and work towards making achievable steps in your healing and recovery. I tend to be direct, yet compassionate during the therapy process.
Welcome, my name is Amy Gokey, LMHC. With over 18 years of experience, my passion is helping people create change in their lives. I enjoy working with people struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, past trauma, or relationships issues. I utilize approaches from interpersonal process, attachment theory and cognitive behavioral therapy to help you identify and work towards making achievable steps in your healing and recovery. I tend to be direct, yet compassionate during the therapy process.
(305) 615-2877 View (305) 615-2877

Online Therapists

Photo of Nichole R Jefferson, MA, NCC
Nichole R Jefferson
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Greetings! Are you ready to be victorious? Let's go on a therapeutic journey that can positively impact your life. I am a National Certified Counselor that has spent more than 20 years passionately motivating college students and individuals of all ages and backgrounds. As a mental health therapist and life coach, I have experience working with both the adolescent and adult populations. I have served the prison population, in residential facilities, and the hospital. I have experience working with individuals with schizophrenia, schizotypal, bipolar, autism, antisocial disorder, borderline disorder, anxiety and depression.
Greetings! Are you ready to be victorious? Let's go on a therapeutic journey that can positively impact your life. I am a National Certified Counselor that has spent more than 20 years passionately motivating college students and individuals of all ages and backgrounds. As a mental health therapist and life coach, I have experience working with both the adolescent and adult populations. I have served the prison population, in residential facilities, and the hospital. I have experience working with individuals with schizophrenia, schizotypal, bipolar, autism, antisocial disorder, borderline disorder, anxiety and depression.
(850) 403-6857 View (850) 403-6857
Photo of Francelise Kacy-Cornwall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Francelise Kacy-Cornwall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312
Are you seeking a more fulfilling life with specific goals such as managing anxiety attacks, improving communication with others, or overcoming past trauma? My goal is for my clients to find peace and joy, and a sense of control over their emotional well-being. Therefore, I provide my clients with a safe and non-judgmental space for validation, support, and the tools to navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and purpose.
Are you seeking a more fulfilling life with specific goals such as managing anxiety attacks, improving communication with others, or overcoming past trauma? My goal is for my clients to find peace and joy, and a sense of control over their emotional well-being. Therefore, I provide my clients with a safe and non-judgmental space for validation, support, and the tools to navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and purpose.
(850) 204-0307 View (850) 204-0307
Photo of Joseph Robert Novak, CIP, NCIP, NCRIC-I, CCMI-I
Joseph Robert Novak
CIP, NCIP, NCRIC-I, CCMI-I
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mary Esther, FL 32569
I have over 22 years of experience with the 12 - Step approach to recovery. My life experience has given me empathy for those suffering with addiction. I have a passion to help others in recovery beyond the traditional methods. I realize that what may work well for some, may not work well for all. A veteran of the United States Air Force and spent 20 years serving my country. During that time I was deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom. I am very passionate concerning Veteran's issues and I hope that I can continue to help those who struggle with addiction.
I have over 22 years of experience with the 12 - Step approach to recovery. My life experience has given me empathy for those suffering with addiction. I have a passion to help others in recovery beyond the traditional methods. I realize that what may work well for some, may not work well for all. A veteran of the United States Air Force and spent 20 years serving my country. During that time I was deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom. I am very passionate concerning Veteran's issues and I hope that I can continue to help those who struggle with addiction.
(850) 462-9491 View (850) 462-9491
Photo of Natasha J Sylvester, PsyD, Psychologist
Natasha J Sylvester
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563  (Online Only)
Is your mind consumed by worries or fears? Do you struggle with insecurities or an inner critic that says, you're a “failure" or “not good enough?” Do you have trouble setting boundaries or communicating assertively? I can teach you strategies to be present for what matters and make decisions based on your values. You can learn effective techniques to stop running from your fears and take back control of your life. I can teach you relaxation and mindfulness skills to increase inner peace and awareness. You can learn to shift unhealthy mindsets, develop healthier core beliefs, and begin advocating for what you deserve.
Is your mind consumed by worries or fears? Do you struggle with insecurities or an inner critic that says, you're a “failure" or “not good enough?” Do you have trouble setting boundaries or communicating assertively? I can teach you strategies to be present for what matters and make decisions based on your values. You can learn effective techniques to stop running from your fears and take back control of your life. I can teach you relaxation and mindfulness skills to increase inner peace and awareness. You can learn to shift unhealthy mindsets, develop healthier core beliefs, and begin advocating for what you deserve.
(850) 407-6326 View (850) 407-6326
Photo of Alexa Williams, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexa Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32305  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Alexa Williams from Essence of Balance Counseling. I provide telehealth therapy in the states of South Carolina, Florida, and Delaware. I have worked with clients from various diverse backgrounds and life circumstances in my career for the past 8 years. I primarily work with individuals and couples from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) communities. Providing services for individual, pre-marital, and couples therapy. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming provider. You will go through the therapy process feeling rejuvenated and heard!
Welcome! I am Alexa Williams from Essence of Balance Counseling. I provide telehealth therapy in the states of South Carolina, Florida, and Delaware. I have worked with clients from various diverse backgrounds and life circumstances in my career for the past 8 years. I primarily work with individuals and couples from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) communities. Providing services for individual, pre-marital, and couples therapy. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming provider. You will go through the therapy process feeling rejuvenated and heard!
(843) 994-7389 View (843) 994-7389
Photo of Logan Elliot, MSW, RCSWI
Logan Elliot
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32312  (Online Only)
Sometimes we need someone objective but relatable to help us see the path forward. Are you smart, educated, and goal-oriented, yet find yourself suffering? Perhaps you are wondering how to move past that same damn argument with your partner. Perhaps you find that when everything is going well, you self-sabotage. Perhaps you're having some trouble forgiving yourself for past mistakes or parenting missteps. It's time to live life the way YOU want. My style is relaxed and non-traditional. Expect to laugh and look forward to therapy, and also make progress that you can be proud of!
Sometimes we need someone objective but relatable to help us see the path forward. Are you smart, educated, and goal-oriented, yet find yourself suffering? Perhaps you are wondering how to move past that same damn argument with your partner. Perhaps you find that when everything is going well, you self-sabotage. Perhaps you're having some trouble forgiving yourself for past mistakes or parenting missteps. It's time to live life the way YOU want. My style is relaxed and non-traditional. Expect to laugh and look forward to therapy, and also make progress that you can be proud of!
(850) 735-7471 View (850) 735-7471
Photo of David Manuel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Manuel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32501  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor that works with all ages 6-64 and specialize in children and adolescents. I have been providing therapy and guidance to children and adolescents that need additional supports for over 10 years.
Hello, I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor that works with all ages 6-64 and specialize in children and adolescents. I have been providing therapy and guidance to children and adolescents that need additional supports for over 10 years.
(706) 981-9079 View (706) 981-9079
Photo of Glendoria Stephens, LMHC, Counselor
Glendoria Stephens
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32404  (Online Only)
Are you feeling insecure, anxious, have a pattern of overthinking, or simply stressed, and unmotivated. I'm here to assist you in gaining clarity over your life I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue to meet your unique and specific needs by identifying your therapy goals and working towards healthy, productive, life -affirming solutions.
Are you feeling insecure, anxious, have a pattern of overthinking, or simply stressed, and unmotivated. I'm here to assist you in gaining clarity over your life I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue to meet your unique and specific needs by identifying your therapy goals and working towards healthy, productive, life -affirming solutions.
(386) 280-4795 View (386) 280-4795
Photo of Cyndi Goodwin - A Time to Change Counseling Center, P.A., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Time to Change Counseling Center, P.A.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32301
I have extensive experience with mood disorders, trauma and addictions and work with all ages. I am trained in EMDR and use that technique with both children and adults if appropriate. My clients often state when they first spoke to me they felt immediately at ease and did not feel judged. I am able to assist my clients in seeing patterns in their life story and work to identify and change core beliefs such as "I'm not good enough", "I'm defective" or "I cannot trust others."
I have extensive experience with mood disorders, trauma and addictions and work with all ages. I am trained in EMDR and use that technique with both children and adults if appropriate. My clients often state when they first spoke to me they felt immediately at ease and did not feel judged. I am able to assist my clients in seeing patterns in their life story and work to identify and change core beliefs such as "I'm not good enough", "I'm defective" or "I cannot trust others."
(850) 378-4548 View (850) 378-4548
Photo of Alice Gilsinan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alice Gilsinan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32308  (Online Only)
Alice Gilsinan is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 30 years of professional experience working in the mental health and substance use field. Alice enjoys working with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping them address their unique challenges, identify solutions and live happier, more fulfilling lives. Alice specializes in treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, addictions and life transitions.
Alice Gilsinan is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 30 years of professional experience working in the mental health and substance use field. Alice enjoys working with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping them address their unique challenges, identify solutions and live happier, more fulfilling lives. Alice specializes in treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, addictions and life transitions.
(850) 407-9273 View (850) 407-9273
Photo of Katie Bergman - The Therapy Room Mind Health and Wellness, MS, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
The Therapy Room Mind Health and Wellness
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32405
The Therapy Room Mind Health and Wellness provides client centered care and unique treatment plans that are customized for each and every client. Our therapists are caring and aim to connect with their clients. We strive to provide the best mental health care in the industry, making it convenient as possible from the comfort of your home or in-office in Panama City.
The Therapy Room Mind Health and Wellness provides client centered care and unique treatment plans that are customized for each and every client. Our therapists are caring and aim to connect with their clients. We strive to provide the best mental health care in the industry, making it convenient as possible from the comfort of your home or in-office in Panama City.
(850) 520-3321 View (850) 520-3321

See more therapy options for Chipley

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chipley, FL

< 10

Therapists in Chipley, FL who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
78% Trauma and PTSD
67% Depression
67% Addiction
67% Coping Skills
67% Self Esteem
56% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Chipley, FL see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chipley?

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.