Therapists in Florida

View cities and counties in Florida
Photo of Jennifer Barmash, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Barmash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34237
Have you been struggling to fix things on your own or hoping they’ll just get better? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, trapped in the cycle of depression, or concerned about substance use? Change is possible and I can help. Your first act of courage is reaching out to a therapist and making an investment in yourself. With 25+ years of experience, I've helped countless individuals to create lasting change through new ways of thinking and feeling.
Have you been struggling to fix things on your own or hoping they’ll just get better? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, trapped in the cycle of depression, or concerned about substance use? Change is possible and I can help. Your first act of courage is reaching out to a therapist and making an investment in yourself. With 25+ years of experience, I've helped countless individuals to create lasting change through new ways of thinking and feeling.
(941) 208-6691 View (941) 208-6691
Photo of Riley Burke Talko, MA, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Riley Burke Talko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
As with many other things in life, I am a firm believer that there is a “no one size fits all approach" in counseling. What this looks like in therapy is working collaboratively with you, using an integrative approach that is tailored to best fit your needs. I use theoretical approaches that fit with both your personality and presenting issues in counseling; primarily utilizing solution-focused and client-centered approaches, specifically focusing on strengths. It is always my hope to create a safe and comfortable space where growth can flourish.
As with many other things in life, I am a firm believer that there is a “no one size fits all approach" in counseling. What this looks like in therapy is working collaboratively with you, using an integrative approach that is tailored to best fit your needs. I use theoretical approaches that fit with both your personality and presenting issues in counseling; primarily utilizing solution-focused and client-centered approaches, specifically focusing on strengths. It is always my hope to create a safe and comfortable space where growth can flourish.
(813) 686-6088 View (813) 686-6088
Photo of Hilary Akman, LMHC, Counselor
Hilary Akman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33325
Is your anxiety or depression so severe that it is impacting your relationships, work, and everyday life? Are you having difficulty shutting off your brain to go to sleep and your thoughts are on a loop? You can break free of the self-defeating cycles by first changing your patterns of thinking. Have you tried counseling before and didn't make the progress you were hoping? Working with me is about more than just talk. When we work together to solve your daily struggles, you are empowered to make changes you want. You will have effective solutions and new skills for managing difficult emotions, thoughts, and beliefs for good!
Is your anxiety or depression so severe that it is impacting your relationships, work, and everyday life? Are you having difficulty shutting off your brain to go to sleep and your thoughts are on a loop? You can break free of the self-defeating cycles by first changing your patterns of thinking. Have you tried counseling before and didn't make the progress you were hoping? Working with me is about more than just talk. When we work together to solve your daily struggles, you are empowered to make changes you want. You will have effective solutions and new skills for managing difficult emotions, thoughts, and beliefs for good!
(754) 203-5332 View (754) 203-5332
Photo of Tiffany Nicole Pagliazzo
Tiffany Nicole Pagliazzo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804
Not accepting new clients
I am a registered counselor working with individuals who have the desire to learn new skills in order to reduce feelings of distress while increasing feelings of inner peace. I received my M.S from Northwestern University, and I have more than five years of experience working in the mental health field with diverse populations. I primarily work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, and self-esteem issues.
I am a registered counselor working with individuals who have the desire to learn new skills in order to reduce feelings of distress while increasing feelings of inner peace. I received my M.S from Northwestern University, and I have more than five years of experience working in the mental health field with diverse populations. I primarily work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, and self-esteem issues.
(321) 342-2612 View (321) 342-2612
Photo of Milton Santos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Milton Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33428
I am a resident of Palm Beach County where I live with my wife and two children. In my spare time you can find me at the beach, spending time with family or enjoying soccer. I am originally from Lima-Peru and moved to Connecticut as a teenager to reunite with my father and siblings. I attended college in Connecticut and graduated with a duo major in Psychology and Philosophy from Sacred Heart University and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Fordham University in 2010. I have extensive work experience in different hospitals, community agencies, youth, adolescent and family recovery and treatment centers.
I am a resident of Palm Beach County where I live with my wife and two children. In my spare time you can find me at the beach, spending time with family or enjoying soccer. I am originally from Lima-Peru and moved to Connecticut as a teenager to reunite with my father and siblings. I attended college in Connecticut and graduated with a duo major in Psychology and Philosophy from Sacred Heart University and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Fordham University in 2010. I have extensive work experience in different hospitals, community agencies, youth, adolescent and family recovery and treatment centers.
(954) 883-9299 View (954) 883-9299
Therapeutic Associates of Florida
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
At Therapeutic Associates of Florida, we coach recovery! We live in tough times,and all the “chatter “is taking its toll. If your little corner of the world has been upended, come see me and we’ll figure things out. Together we will utilize the three Cs’ Confront the situation, Challenge old thoughts, Change behaviors
At Therapeutic Associates of Florida, we coach recovery! We live in tough times,and all the “chatter “is taking its toll. If your little corner of the world has been upended, come see me and we’ll figure things out. Together we will utilize the three Cs’ Confront the situation, Challenge old thoughts, Change behaviors
(772) 356-1976 View (772) 356-1976
Photo of Michelle Carr, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Carr
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coconut Creek, FL 33066  (Online Only)
Nothing is more rewarding than helping people acknowledge and utilize their natural capacity to heal, survive, overcome, and thrive. The therapy hour typically feels less like a chore and more like having a genuine, present experience where clients have the space to show up exactly as they are and be themselves. We all deserve the time and energy it takes to have a deep and meaningful relationship with ourselves, and it is my privilege to sit alongside my clients as they do this important work.
Nothing is more rewarding than helping people acknowledge and utilize their natural capacity to heal, survive, overcome, and thrive. The therapy hour typically feels less like a chore and more like having a genuine, present experience where clients have the space to show up exactly as they are and be themselves. We all deserve the time and energy it takes to have a deep and meaningful relationship with ourselves, and it is my privilege to sit alongside my clients as they do this important work.
(954) 869-8773 View (954) 869-8773
Photo of Celia Marchese - Positive Solutions Therapy, LMHC, LMFT, QS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Positive Solutions Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist my goal is to support the client through their personal difficult challenges. Whether it's individual, couples or family issues my mission is to help the client throughout the therapeutic process, and decrease the negative emotions they may be experiencing. I believe strongly in promoting self-awareness and unconditional positive regard to my clients. As one of the few Certified Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (TF-CBT) in Sarasota, I have specialized training working with children and families healing from various types of trauma.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist my goal is to support the client through their personal difficult challenges. Whether it's individual, couples or family issues my mission is to help the client throughout the therapeutic process, and decrease the negative emotions they may be experiencing. I believe strongly in promoting self-awareness and unconditional positive regard to my clients. As one of the few Certified Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (TF-CBT) in Sarasota, I have specialized training working with children and families healing from various types of trauma.
(941) 260-1124 View (941) 260-1124
Photo of Jayne Tingley - October Sky Counseling and Education LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
October Sky Counseling and Education LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ruskin, FL 33570  (Online Only)
Sometimes figuring out how to handle a stressors in life is difficult. Change can be hard and scary but you do not have to do it alone. I am honored that you are considering me to help you work through life's obstacles. I use a client centered approach to help identify your goals and see progress weekly. If you have come to a point in your life where what you were doing is no longer working you have made the first step. If you are experiencing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety or change in relationship, I can help!
Sometimes figuring out how to handle a stressors in life is difficult. Change can be hard and scary but you do not have to do it alone. I am honored that you are considering me to help you work through life's obstacles. I use a client centered approach to help identify your goals and see progress weekly. If you have come to a point in your life where what you were doing is no longer working you have made the first step. If you are experiencing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety or change in relationship, I can help!
(813) 213-0937 View (813) 213-0937
Photo of Carrie And Matt Ellis, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Carrie And Matt Ellis
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Are you navigating post-adoption issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and stress from life transitions and relationship issues? As a team, our counseling focus is assisting families formed through adoption. We also work with biological families experiencing internal strife and adults struggling with unresolved childhood trauma and couples in distress seeking a closer relationship. Areas of Specialty: PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy), Attachment, Trauma, Preadoption Assessments, Emotional dysregulation and Behavioral Concerns.
Are you navigating post-adoption issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and stress from life transitions and relationship issues? As a team, our counseling focus is assisting families formed through adoption. We also work with biological families experiencing internal strife and adults struggling with unresolved childhood trauma and couples in distress seeking a closer relationship. Areas of Specialty: PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy), Attachment, Trauma, Preadoption Assessments, Emotional dysregulation and Behavioral Concerns.
(561) 510-9514 View (561) 510-9514
Photo of Bay Area Clarity, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bay Area Clarity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Waitlist for new clients
Would you like someone to talk to - completely without judgement or bias? To have a safe space for guidance? To gain a different perspective? Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is ideal for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be noted. Here, you are taking responsibility by accepting what you are experiencing and making a commitment to change something about it.
Would you like someone to talk to - completely without judgement or bias? To have a safe space for guidance? To gain a different perspective? Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it. In fact, therapy is ideal for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be noted. Here, you are taking responsibility by accepting what you are experiencing and making a commitment to change something about it.
(813) 501-6716 View (813) 501-6716
Photo of Muskaan Soni, MSW, RCSWI
Muskaan Soni
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pace, FL 32571
Waitlist for new clients
Muskaan is a compassionate and resourceful clinician who has a trauma-informed approach. Born and raised in India, she draws from multicultural and interdisciplinary practices to create an individualized treatment plan. She provides client-centered interventions & advocacy for underserved children as well as adults with complex needs. She utilizes evidence-based strategies like Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Muskaan is a compassionate and resourceful clinician who has a trauma-informed approach. Born and raised in India, she draws from multicultural and interdisciplinary practices to create an individualized treatment plan. She provides client-centered interventions & advocacy for underserved children as well as adults with complex needs. She utilizes evidence-based strategies like Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
(850) 787-8419 View (850) 787-8419
Photo of Vaaseen Richards, LMHC, Counselor
Vaaseen Richards
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34120  (Online Only)
Welcome my name is Vaaseen Richards and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based out of Florida. I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) and Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals who have experienced trauma to heal and thrive.
Welcome my name is Vaaseen Richards and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based out of Florida. I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) and Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals who have experienced trauma to heal and thrive.
(786) 998-0804 View (786) 998-0804
Photo of Jessica M Gurvit, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica M Gurvit
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32963
We all have the potential to be happy, prosperous and peaceful. Even when outside circumstances are challenging and difficult - these precious states of mind are available and attainable. My practice emphasizes providing patients with the tools and strategies to be successful and healthy and joyful throughout all developmental stages (childhood- senior years). We blend Western Psychology with Eastern Psychology strategies enabling us to access the latest research along with techniques and insights of an ancient tradition that has the credibility spanning thousands of years of successful practice. All major psychology approaches are integrated and tailored to the needs of the individual.
We all have the potential to be happy, prosperous and peaceful. Even when outside circumstances are challenging and difficult - these precious states of mind are available and attainable. My practice emphasizes providing patients with the tools and strategies to be successful and healthy and joyful throughout all developmental stages (childhood- senior years). We blend Western Psychology with Eastern Psychology strategies enabling us to access the latest research along with techniques and insights of an ancient tradition that has the credibility spanning thousands of years of successful practice. All major psychology approaches are integrated and tailored to the needs of the individual.
(954) 903-0477 View (954) 903-0477
Photo of Candace Renee Lake, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Candace Renee Lake
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
I am pleased to introduce myself as a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I am certified in trauma therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness, motivation interviewing, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) interventions. My experience includes providing early childhood counseling as well as treating adults, children, and adolescents. My goal is to help my clients gain insight into their experiences and develop coping skills to manage their challenges effectively. I use a client-centered approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual.
I am pleased to introduce myself as a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I am certified in trauma therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness, motivation interviewing, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) interventions. My experience includes providing early childhood counseling as well as treating adults, children, and adolescents. My goal is to help my clients gain insight into their experiences and develop coping skills to manage their challenges effectively. I use a client-centered approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual.
(561) 517-9614 View (561) 517-9614
Photo of Rachael Whitney Dingman, MSW
Rachael Whitney Dingman
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34209  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I specialize in providing telehealth services to clients who are 12 years old and up. I love working with youth and young adults transitioning into adulthood. I called my practice "Heard Therapy" because that's how I want you to feel. One of my strengths is being able to connect with adolescents quickly. I understand that most kids/teens don't feel heard by the adults around them. I want to be that safe adult. I am very authentic and use humor often. I specialize in a trauma-informed approach with children and families. Working with parents is also a passion, as helping the caregiver, helps the family unit!
As a therapist, I specialize in providing telehealth services to clients who are 12 years old and up. I love working with youth and young adults transitioning into adulthood. I called my practice "Heard Therapy" because that's how I want you to feel. One of my strengths is being able to connect with adolescents quickly. I understand that most kids/teens don't feel heard by the adults around them. I want to be that safe adult. I am very authentic and use humor often. I specialize in a trauma-informed approach with children and families. Working with parents is also a passion, as helping the caregiver, helps the family unit!
(802) 755-3215 View (802) 755-3215
Photo of Trinika L Trotter - The Listening Corner, Inc., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Listening Corner, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33619  (Online Only)
I am Trinika Trotter a licensed clinician in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. My experience and expertise working with various demographics and vulnerable populations has inspired me to specialize in Crisis Management. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change.
I am Trinika Trotter a licensed clinician in Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. My experience and expertise working with various demographics and vulnerable populations has inspired me to specialize in Crisis Management. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change.
(813) 742-6491 View (813) 742-6491
Photo of Ana P Morrison, LMHC, Counselor
Ana P Morrison
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
I collaborate with couples and individuals facing a diverse range of challenges such as varying communication styles, sex and sexuality concerns, life transitions, anxiety, multicultural issues, trauma, ADHD, disordered eating, and depression. My passion lies in strengthening their bonds and supporting them to unlock their full potential, guiding them toward a life free from obstacles and mental/emotional struggles. I achieve this by imparting knowledge on emotional, body, and mind awareness, offering practical coping strategies for daily life, utilizing EMDR, and addressing areas where they may feel stagnant.
I collaborate with couples and individuals facing a diverse range of challenges such as varying communication styles, sex and sexuality concerns, life transitions, anxiety, multicultural issues, trauma, ADHD, disordered eating, and depression. My passion lies in strengthening their bonds and supporting them to unlock their full potential, guiding them toward a life free from obstacles and mental/emotional struggles. I achieve this by imparting knowledge on emotional, body, and mind awareness, offering practical coping strategies for daily life, utilizing EMDR, and addressing areas where they may feel stagnant.
(352) 745-3820 View (352) 745-3820
Photo of Tatiana Cayce, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tatiana Cayce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deland, FL 32724
Families everywhere can experience times of conflict and life stressors that can get so overwhelming, they need outside support to help them through the journey. I am passionate about helping families find ways to better communicate with each other and begin to change destructive patterns in their relationships. I specialize in working with teens and their parents on communication and relationship conflict. You and your family do not have to continue on the same path you are currently in. Allow me to help you arrive to the place you envision and desire yourself and your loved ones to be!
Families everywhere can experience times of conflict and life stressors that can get so overwhelming, they need outside support to help them through the journey. I am passionate about helping families find ways to better communicate with each other and begin to change destructive patterns in their relationships. I specialize in working with teens and their parents on communication and relationship conflict. You and your family do not have to continue on the same path you are currently in. Allow me to help you arrive to the place you envision and desire yourself and your loved ones to be!
(352) 505-7443 View (352) 505-7443
Photo of Terri Finnigan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terri Finnigan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
When clients enter into the therapeutic process willing to work, therapy can be nothing short of life changing. Therapy can provide clients with the tools to change their perspective, improve their thought and communication patterns, and increase their level of interpersonal intimacy. Most importantly, therapy gives clients the opportunity to be seen and heard in a safe, accepting environment.
When clients enter into the therapeutic process willing to work, therapy can be nothing short of life changing. Therapy can provide clients with the tools to change their perspective, improve their thought and communication patterns, and increase their level of interpersonal intimacy. Most importantly, therapy gives clients the opportunity to be seen and heard in a safe, accepting environment.
(561) 293-4864 View (561) 293-4864
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How does your Therapist compare?

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Florida who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
70% Relationship Issues
66% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Florida see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Florida?

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.