Therapists in Augusta, GA

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Photo of Madison Bentley, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Madison Bentley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
In addition to his private practice where he treats child/adolescents/adults, Madison was the Clinical Director at Hope House of Augusta’s Women’s Residential and Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Center from September 11, 2016 to February 9, 2020, where patients received treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. Madison has a Master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy Alabama University and is a National Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Georgia where he provides clinical supervision for Master's level post-graduates.
In addition to his private practice where he treats child/adolescents/adults, Madison was the Clinical Director at Hope House of Augusta’s Women’s Residential and Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Center from September 11, 2016 to February 9, 2020, where patients received treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. Madison has a Master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy Alabama University and is a National Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Georgia where he provides clinical supervision for Master's level post-graduates.
(706) 637-2075 View (706) 637-2075
Photo of Jessica Wilson Epps - Steppingstones To Recovery, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steppingstones To Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
After earning a Master's in Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 2003, I began working at Steppingstones as a group therapist. While I am not recovering from a substance use disorder myself, I have an extensive understanding of the progression of addiction, the process of recovery, and family dynamics of addiction. In addition to addiction treatment experience, I find fulfillment working with the various issues faced by emergency responders, including law enforcement officers, paramedics and fire fighters, as well as people seeking help for mental health concerns.
After earning a Master's in Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 2003, I began working at Steppingstones as a group therapist. While I am not recovering from a substance use disorder myself, I have an extensive understanding of the progression of addiction, the process of recovery, and family dynamics of addiction. In addition to addiction treatment experience, I find fulfillment working with the various issues faced by emergency responders, including law enforcement officers, paramedics and fire fighters, as well as people seeking help for mental health concerns.
(706) 675-5723 View (706) 675-5723
Photo of Katherine Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30901  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Katherine Brown.
Hi, my name is Katherine Brown.
(762) 247-5496 View (762) 247-5496
Photo of April Noriega, LPC, CCTP, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Noriega
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
April Noriega is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and holds certifications as a trauma and anxiety professional. April has a long history of working with a diverse population of clients and disorders. As a military spouse, a mother, and a survivor of past trauma, April brings a wide array of skill sets and real-world experiences. April offers an empathetic, non-judgmental space for anyone seeking help and/or growth in their current stage of life. Her hope is through therapy, you will see improvements and gain the tools you need to benefit your journey to a healthier you.
April Noriega is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and holds certifications as a trauma and anxiety professional. April has a long history of working with a diverse population of clients and disorders. As a military spouse, a mother, and a survivor of past trauma, April brings a wide array of skill sets and real-world experiences. April offers an empathetic, non-judgmental space for anyone seeking help and/or growth in their current stage of life. Her hope is through therapy, you will see improvements and gain the tools you need to benefit your journey to a healthier you.
(706) 943-0752 View (706) 943-0752
Photo of Lynn Burke Reyes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynn Burke Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30907  (Online Only)
If you are looking for someone to help you make a change in your life, I applaud you for taking the first step! Reaching out to someone else can be difficult, but having someone to listen, to help you clarify your thoughts, and to hold you accountable can be the key to making satisfying changes in your life. I’m offering to be that person for you. Whether you are facing life challenges, struggling with self-defeating habits, or trying to overcome issues from your past, I’m ready to be your ally. Therapy can be the catalyst for discovering your strengths and building on them to create a more fulfilling life.
If you are looking for someone to help you make a change in your life, I applaud you for taking the first step! Reaching out to someone else can be difficult, but having someone to listen, to help you clarify your thoughts, and to hold you accountable can be the key to making satisfying changes in your life. I’m offering to be that person for you. Whether you are facing life challenges, struggling with self-defeating habits, or trying to overcome issues from your past, I’m ready to be your ally. Therapy can be the catalyst for discovering your strengths and building on them to create a more fulfilling life.
(706) 701-5751 View (706) 701-5751
Photo of Allison Layman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Layman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Allison Layman is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from the University of West Georgia with a Masters degree in Psychology with a clinical focus. Allison is trained in a variety of modalities, including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Grief Recovery, Gottman Couples Counseling and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. She believes that individuals are multifaceted and views people in the larger context of their life and relationships. Her main areas of focus include anxiety, grief, trauma and relationship issues.
Allison Layman is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from the University of West Georgia with a Masters degree in Psychology with a clinical focus. Allison is trained in a variety of modalities, including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Grief Recovery, Gottman Couples Counseling and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. She believes that individuals are multifaceted and views people in the larger context of their life and relationships. Her main areas of focus include anxiety, grief, trauma and relationship issues.
(706) 903-9365 View (706) 903-9365
Photo of Capus Barnett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Capus Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
Welcome! I'm Capus Barnett, LCSW, guiding you through life's challenges with empathy and dedication. Together, we'll go beyond surface issues, exploring deep-rooted causes of stress, anxiety, sadness, or relationship problems. It's not just about coping strategies; it's about understanding, healing, and transformative growth. In our collaborative journey, we'll discover your strength and potential for a balanced life. Ready to tackle the underlying issues for lasting change? Let's start this journey together.
Welcome! I'm Capus Barnett, LCSW, guiding you through life's challenges with empathy and dedication. Together, we'll go beyond surface issues, exploring deep-rooted causes of stress, anxiety, sadness, or relationship problems. It's not just about coping strategies; it's about understanding, healing, and transformative growth. In our collaborative journey, we'll discover your strength and potential for a balanced life. Ready to tackle the underlying issues for lasting change? Let's start this journey together.
(706) 873-9238 View (706) 873-9238
Photo of Rachel H Willis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel H Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
Through counseling, I help individuals find practical ways to experience some relief from the stress life brings. Whether you want to learn skills to handle anxiety or feel held back from reaching your goals, I provide a safe and accepting environment for individuals to grow. I understand worry can weigh you down and finding a work-life balance can be difficult. Utilizing empathy, understanding, and support, I aim to help you gain the skills to handle life's ups and downs. I believe each person is unique and I take a client-centered approach to treatment, where clients are at the forefront of the therapeutic process.
Through counseling, I help individuals find practical ways to experience some relief from the stress life brings. Whether you want to learn skills to handle anxiety or feel held back from reaching your goals, I provide a safe and accepting environment for individuals to grow. I understand worry can weigh you down and finding a work-life balance can be difficult. Utilizing empathy, understanding, and support, I aim to help you gain the skills to handle life's ups and downs. I believe each person is unique and I take a client-centered approach to treatment, where clients are at the forefront of the therapeutic process.
(706) 350-6445 View (706) 350-6445
Photo of Mary Katherine Crook, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Katherine Crook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
Everyone has a story...and my story has left me with a sincere heart for the hurting. As your counselor it is my passion to be the support you need as you work through the hurts and struggles you face. Whether teen or adult, you will find a safe and caring place when you sit with me in the counseling room. Here, it is also my hope that you will find a new experience - a welcoming space where you will feel heard and be encouraged as you progress towards healing and growth.
Everyone has a story...and my story has left me with a sincere heart for the hurting. As your counselor it is my passion to be the support you need as you work through the hurts and struggles you face. Whether teen or adult, you will find a safe and caring place when you sit with me in the counseling room. Here, it is also my hope that you will find a new experience - a welcoming space where you will feel heard and be encouraged as you progress towards healing and growth.
(762) 240-1299 View (762) 240-1299
Photo of Sylina Holmes, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sylina Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
Our first visit is spent getting to know each other and identifying goals for therapy. It is important to me that we work together as a team. I believe in the use of evidence-based treatment in collaboration with holistic approaches as well.
Our first visit is spent getting to know each other and identifying goals for therapy. It is important to me that we work together as a team. I believe in the use of evidence-based treatment in collaboration with holistic approaches as well.
(706) 365-0686 View (706) 365-0686
Photo of Hana Perkey, LPC, CPCS, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hana Perkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
At times, trauma can get us locked in painful patterns of interacting with others or responding to our environment. Whether we are re-living pain and hurt in our relationships or reacting to triggers around us in ways that no longer serve us, the results can leave us depressed, chronically stressed, and exhausted. Living an authentic life that includes joy and fulfillment does not have to be a fantasy. Therapy can help you gain some clarity about your struggles and give you the tools you need to make transformational changes.
At times, trauma can get us locked in painful patterns of interacting with others or responding to our environment. Whether we are re-living pain and hurt in our relationships or reacting to triggers around us in ways that no longer serve us, the results can leave us depressed, chronically stressed, and exhausted. Living an authentic life that includes joy and fulfillment does not have to be a fantasy. Therapy can help you gain some clarity about your struggles and give you the tools you need to make transformational changes.
(706) 574-3174 View (706) 574-3174
Photo of Caitlin Buhrmeister, MFT, LMFT, IMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlin Buhrmeister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901
Trauma impacts our relationships. It's that simple. If your sexual assault makes it hard to be touched, if events from your childhood leave you afraid to trust, if the way your ex treated you is ruining things for you now: you're experiencing that impact. It may feel like a lot, but having the type of relationships you want (laugh 'til you cry, hot sex, deep emotional connection, whatever!) is totally achievable. You don't have to feel embarrassed by what you've gone through or scared to speak it out loud. Vulnerability, authenticity, and healthy connection are waiting for you and you don't have to find them on your own.
Trauma impacts our relationships. It's that simple. If your sexual assault makes it hard to be touched, if events from your childhood leave you afraid to trust, if the way your ex treated you is ruining things for you now: you're experiencing that impact. It may feel like a lot, but having the type of relationships you want (laugh 'til you cry, hot sex, deep emotional connection, whatever!) is totally achievable. You don't have to feel embarrassed by what you've gone through or scared to speak it out loud. Vulnerability, authenticity, and healthy connection are waiting for you and you don't have to find them on your own.
(762) 251-3827 View (762) 251-3827
Photo of Thletha Yates, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thletha Yates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30906
Hello, My name is Thletha Yates. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, and a Clinical Supervisor. I offer psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals, families, youth, and young and older adults. This includes all ages between 13 and up to centenarians. As a psychotherapist, I use a range of modalities that can assist with managing mental health and wellness in a healthy way. I am skilled and experienced at helping with emotional challenges and some challenging psychiatric disorders.
Hello, My name is Thletha Yates. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, and a Clinical Supervisor. I offer psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals, families, youth, and young and older adults. This includes all ages between 13 and up to centenarians. As a psychotherapist, I use a range of modalities that can assist with managing mental health and wellness in a healthy way. I am skilled and experienced at helping with emotional challenges and some challenging psychiatric disorders.
(706) 932-9857 View (706) 932-9857
Photo of Emily Beall, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Beall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
You may be here because you are seeking the freedom of not living in fear. Perhaps you find that a lot of your time is occupied by rumination or trouble tolerating uncertainty. You might describe yourself as ‘plagued with self-doubt’. I’m here for you while we navigate these challenges together. I approach therapy through the lens of guiding my clients to learn to manage the uncertainty and discomfort in what we don't have control of and instead focus on acting on their values, what is important to them/their growth, healing their relationship with themselves, and learning to be an active participant in their own lives.
You may be here because you are seeking the freedom of not living in fear. Perhaps you find that a lot of your time is occupied by rumination or trouble tolerating uncertainty. You might describe yourself as ‘plagued with self-doubt’. I’m here for you while we navigate these challenges together. I approach therapy through the lens of guiding my clients to learn to manage the uncertainty and discomfort in what we don't have control of and instead focus on acting on their values, what is important to them/their growth, healing their relationship with themselves, and learning to be an active participant in their own lives.
(706) 230-6652 View (706) 230-6652
Photo of Dr. Tonjanika Jackson, CCDP-D, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tonjanika Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, CCDP-D, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30909
I aim to implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among clients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. It is essential to keep in mind that therapy is not a magic pill or a quick fix: therapy is a healing process that necessitates participation and investment from the client and caretaker alike. But in the end, making small changes to self-defeating behavior and coping with feelings of sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results.
I aim to implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among clients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. It is essential to keep in mind that therapy is not a magic pill or a quick fix: therapy is a healing process that necessitates participation and investment from the client and caretaker alike. But in the end, making small changes to self-defeating behavior and coping with feelings of sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results.
(762) 209-3467 View (762) 209-3467
Photo of Brian Adams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Brian Adams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia who has been practicing since 2007. He has an MSW from University of Georgia and a BSW from SC. State University. Brian has experience working with clients of all age ranges, and experience working in criminal justice, hospice, dialysis, and school settings with voluntary and non-voluntary clients. He has an extensive history working with community support agencies, community brokers, and resources to meet needs of clients. Outside of work, Brian enjoys college sports fan, spending time with kids, and outdoor activities.
Brian Adams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia who has been practicing since 2007. He has an MSW from University of Georgia and a BSW from SC. State University. Brian has experience working with clients of all age ranges, and experience working in criminal justice, hospice, dialysis, and school settings with voluntary and non-voluntary clients. He has an extensive history working with community support agencies, community brokers, and resources to meet needs of clients. Outside of work, Brian enjoys college sports fan, spending time with kids, and outdoor activities.
(706) 503-5072 View (706) 503-5072
Photo of Asha Okasa, Pre-Licensed Professional
Asha Okasa
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
I take a holistic and individualized approach to provide therapy that meets the unique needs of each individual. I believe therapy is a collaboration where the counselor and the client(s) work together to gain insight, overcome obstacles, and achieve positive change. I use evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and mindfulness.
I take a holistic and individualized approach to provide therapy that meets the unique needs of each individual. I believe therapy is a collaboration where the counselor and the client(s) work together to gain insight, overcome obstacles, and achieve positive change. I use evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and mindfulness.
(706) 875-9806 View (706) 875-9806
Photo of Jamie Elizabeth Lough, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Elizabeth Lough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30904  (Online Only)
I find fulfillment in working with clients who have a history of trauma. Helping someone through the dark, painful, and broken parts of their life to assist them in finding their wholeness again, to have hope and confidence in themselves. Along with trauma I have been trained to work with clients who have depression, anxiety, and anger issues. I use an eclectic style of therapy and pull from several different modalities.
I find fulfillment in working with clients who have a history of trauma. Helping someone through the dark, painful, and broken parts of their life to assist them in finding their wholeness again, to have hope and confidence in themselves. Along with trauma I have been trained to work with clients who have depression, anxiety, and anger issues. I use an eclectic style of therapy and pull from several different modalities.
(706) 971-7042 View (706) 971-7042
Photo of Capus Barnett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Capus Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I imagine you are someone who's navigating the complexities of life's challenges. Perhaps you're grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or feeling overwhelmed by the stressors of daily life. Your needs are unique: seeking understanding, desiring change, and striving for personal growth. Your goals? To find balance, achieve inner peace, and foster healthier relationships. You want more than just to cope; you yearn to thrive, to rediscover joy and meaning in your life. Why? Because you know deep down that you deserve a life filled with happiness and fulfillment.
Hello and welcome! I imagine you are someone who's navigating the complexities of life's challenges. Perhaps you're grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or feeling overwhelmed by the stressors of daily life. Your needs are unique: seeking understanding, desiring change, and striving for personal growth. Your goals? To find balance, achieve inner peace, and foster healthier relationships. You want more than just to cope; you yearn to thrive, to rediscover joy and meaning in your life. Why? Because you know deep down that you deserve a life filled with happiness and fulfillment.
(706) 873-9638 View (706) 873-9638
Photo of Tanya Lorenzi - Healthy Connections Counseling, LPC, CPCS, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healthy Connections Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, CST
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
Haven't felt like yourself for awhile? Maybe you're not sure if this is stress, anxiety, or depression, you just know you want to feel like yourself again. We can help with that. At Healthy Connections, our goal is to get you back to feeling like yourself again. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or just looking for direction in your life, our therapists are dedicated to helping you thrive and achieve not only your therapy goals, but your life goals as well. It's time to end the struggle with yourself and take control of your mental health. Call us today.
Haven't felt like yourself for awhile? Maybe you're not sure if this is stress, anxiety, or depression, you just know you want to feel like yourself again. We can help with that. At Healthy Connections, our goal is to get you back to feeling like yourself again. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or just looking for direction in your life, our therapists are dedicated to helping you thrive and achieve not only your therapy goals, but your life goals as well. It's time to end the struggle with yourself and take control of your mental health. Call us today.
(706) 203-4044 View (706) 203-4044

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Augusta, GA

400+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Augusta, GA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
69% Coping Skills
68% Self Esteem
62% Trauma and PTSD
59% Grief
52% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
84% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Augusta, GA see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Augusta?

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.