Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI

Photo of John Fox, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
To provide quality care to people in the community dealing with mental illness by assessing and providing counseling through a variety of psychological theories and practices.
To provide quality care to people in the community dealing with mental illness by assessing and providing counseling through a variety of psychological theories and practices.
(808) 369-9972 View (808) 369-9972
Photo of Kimberley Warnecke, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Kimberley Warnecke
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
I was raised on the beautiful Big Island of Hawai’i and served for years as a high school teacher in Kona. I love working with youth and their families and decided to pursue a graduate degree in mental health counseling to serve this community’s youth in a different way. I specialize in working with children/ teens (ages 3-18) and their families, particularly those with a history of trauma. I believe long-term change happens within the family system, and I try to involve parents and caregivers consistently throughout the treatment process because of this.
I was raised on the beautiful Big Island of Hawai’i and served for years as a high school teacher in Kona. I love working with youth and their families and decided to pursue a graduate degree in mental health counseling to serve this community’s youth in a different way. I specialize in working with children/ teens (ages 3-18) and their families, particularly those with a history of trauma. I believe long-term change happens within the family system, and I try to involve parents and caregivers consistently throughout the treatment process because of this.
(970) 645-8521 View (970) 645-8521
Photo of David Gehlbach Wilson, LICSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Gehlbach Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
Hi, fellow journeyers! I am a mixed Indigenous (Mohawk/Metís) & white (Swedish/Scottish) male who walks the sacred journey of mental and emotional healing with others in Hawaii and Washington. My first priority is to get to know you, understand your current situation, and support your goals for therapy. Our therapeutic relationship will be characterized by respect and confidentiality. It is my greatest honor to walk the healing path with people. Our lives are the context for a myriad of great joy and sorrow. I look forward to walking alongside you in your journey of bringing healing to the sorrow and cultivating the joy.
Hi, fellow journeyers! I am a mixed Indigenous (Mohawk/Metís) & white (Swedish/Scottish) male who walks the sacred journey of mental and emotional healing with others in Hawaii and Washington. My first priority is to get to know you, understand your current situation, and support your goals for therapy. Our therapeutic relationship will be characterized by respect and confidentiality. It is my greatest honor to walk the healing path with people. Our lives are the context for a myriad of great joy and sorrow. I look forward to walking alongside you in your journey of bringing healing to the sorrow and cultivating the joy.
(206) 672-9062 View (206) 672-9062
Photo of Alyssa S Kratz, LSW, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa S Kratz
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Alyssa Kratz, LSW, received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Behavioral Mental Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. Alyssa is passionate about mental health & wellness. She believes that vast healing potential lies within each individual, and that given tools and a supportive, safe environment, one's unique potential can thrive. Her work is client-centered and trauma focused. Alyssa works with adults on various mental health experiences including addictions, codependency, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, self-harm, PTSD, trauma, abuse, and relational difficulties.
Alyssa Kratz, LSW, received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Behavioral Mental Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. Alyssa is passionate about mental health & wellness. She believes that vast healing potential lies within each individual, and that given tools and a supportive, safe environment, one's unique potential can thrive. Her work is client-centered and trauma focused. Alyssa works with adults on various mental health experiences including addictions, codependency, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, self-harm, PTSD, trauma, abuse, and relational difficulties.
(808) 201-5393 View (808) 201-5393
Photo of Vanessa Mount, MFT, LMHC, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Mount
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
The path towards healing can be scary. Being vulnerable and honest with ourselves and with others can feel risky. However, this is a path that is rich and rewarding for the brave and courageous souls who are willing to embark on such a journey! It can be difficult to reach out, but if you are willing, I am happy to see how I can help. I would be honored to walk the path of healing alongside you!
The path towards healing can be scary. Being vulnerable and honest with ourselves and with others can feel risky. However, this is a path that is rich and rewarding for the brave and courageous souls who are willing to embark on such a journey! It can be difficult to reach out, but if you are willing, I am happy to see how I can help. I would be honored to walk the path of healing alongside you!
(808) 419-7962 View (808) 419-7962
Photo of Shelley Shane, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelley Shane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96745  (Online Only)
Do you sometimes feel an underlying sense of anxiety, unease or overwhelm? Do you sometimes wonder why you react or respond in certain ways to certain types of situations? You are not alone! Current experiences sometimes release responses that we developed earlier in our lives. We may have needed them at the time, but there may be a better way. It may be time to help those parts update to respond in ways that are more appropriate at your current stage of life. Let's start from a place of lovingkindness, forgiveness and compassion...for yourself as well as for others.
Do you sometimes feel an underlying sense of anxiety, unease or overwhelm? Do you sometimes wonder why you react or respond in certain ways to certain types of situations? You are not alone! Current experiences sometimes release responses that we developed earlier in our lives. We may have needed them at the time, but there may be a better way. It may be time to help those parts update to respond in ways that are more appropriate at your current stage of life. Let's start from a place of lovingkindness, forgiveness and compassion...for yourself as well as for others.
(808) 895-0090 View (808) 895-0090
Photo of Cassandra J Castillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra J Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Hello! My name is Cassandra "Cassie" Castillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who's goal is to create a space where you can feel heard and validated. I use a person-centered approach that looks at you as a whole person. I believe healing starts first and foremost with yourself. Using collaboration within the therapeutic relationship, my approach helps to guide you to becoming more aware of the best version that you can be.
Hello! My name is Cassandra "Cassie" Castillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who's goal is to create a space where you can feel heard and validated. I use a person-centered approach that looks at you as a whole person. I believe healing starts first and foremost with yourself. Using collaboration within the therapeutic relationship, my approach helps to guide you to becoming more aware of the best version that you can be.
(516) 973-0768 View (516) 973-0768
Photo of Mary Kay Lowe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Kay Lowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
My name is Mary Kay. I am a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who is passionate about helping my clients overcome, heal and grow from experiences and challenges they face. This provider resides in Hawaii. I typically work with clients motivated to work on areas they identify when entering therapy. These areas might include anxiety, depression, trauma-related experiences, verbal, physical, and or sexual abuse, spirituality, family issues, and building relationships with others. I work best with clients who prefer to work with a seasoned female therapist.
My name is Mary Kay. I am a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who is passionate about helping my clients overcome, heal and grow from experiences and challenges they face. This provider resides in Hawaii. I typically work with clients motivated to work on areas they identify when entering therapy. These areas might include anxiety, depression, trauma-related experiences, verbal, physical, and or sexual abuse, spirituality, family issues, and building relationships with others. I work best with clients who prefer to work with a seasoned female therapist.
(606) 357-2175 View (606) 357-2175
Photo of Natasha McCool, LMFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha McCool
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Today, more than ever, we are faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges on a personal, familial, communal, national, and global level. At best, it has caused us to reset our priorities, develop character, and engage in better self-care. At worst, we have experienced severe loss, often feeling isolated, alienated, and stuck. Perhaps depression and anxiety have encroached on every aspect of life, leaving interpersonal relationships significantly strained in an unparalleled way. Whatever the case, healing is possible with intentional action steered toward achieving a more fulfilling life, even in the face of adversity.
Today, more than ever, we are faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges on a personal, familial, communal, national, and global level. At best, it has caused us to reset our priorities, develop character, and engage in better self-care. At worst, we have experienced severe loss, often feeling isolated, alienated, and stuck. Perhaps depression and anxiety have encroached on every aspect of life, leaving interpersonal relationships significantly strained in an unparalleled way. Whatever the case, healing is possible with intentional action steered toward achieving a more fulfilling life, even in the face of adversity.
(410) 498-7663 View (410) 498-7663
Photo of undefined - Wilson Cheh Counseling Services, LMFT, LPCC, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wilson Cheh Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
Aloha! I am a bi-cultural engineer-turned-therapist with experience in several clinical specialties that enables me to provide effective, high impact, outcome-focused services to my clients. I welcome opportunities in supporting adults, young adults, couples & families to navigate through tough seasons of feeling overwhelmed, experiencing loss in transitions, or dealing with painful/complex circumstances. I tend to digest & integrate a wide range of information along with having a sensitivity to generational, cultural, & racial influences. My style is both conversational & experiential, advocating for empowerment & hope.
Aloha! I am a bi-cultural engineer-turned-therapist with experience in several clinical specialties that enables me to provide effective, high impact, outcome-focused services to my clients. I welcome opportunities in supporting adults, young adults, couples & families to navigate through tough seasons of feeling overwhelmed, experiencing loss in transitions, or dealing with painful/complex circumstances. I tend to digest & integrate a wide range of information along with having a sensitivity to generational, cultural, & racial influences. My style is both conversational & experiential, advocating for empowerment & hope.
(928) 550-6736 View (928) 550-6736
Photo of Scott Ginoza, LMHC, Counselor
Scott Ginoza
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I was born and raised on Oahu. I studied psychology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and received my master’s in counseling from Chaminade University. I been licensed as a counselor in the state of Hawaii since 2011. I realize that no two people are the same and as such I tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or another issue, I hope to help clients find a healthier way of living.
I was born and raised on Oahu. I studied psychology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and received my master’s in counseling from Chaminade University. I been licensed as a counselor in the state of Hawaii since 2011. I realize that no two people are the same and as such I tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or another issue, I hope to help clients find a healthier way of living.
(516) 689-7774 View (516) 689-7774
Photo of Kelly Lynn Donovan Senft, MA, MFT, Ced, CLTMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Lynn Donovan Senft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, Ced, CLTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
Could you benefit from some extra support so you can get back on track to focus on things that are important, so that you spend less time, energy and effort dealing with STRESS? Do you need a place to process things going on with you without the bias that can occur when talking to friends and family? The therapeutic setting can give you the opportunity to learn and grow. With these paradigm shifts, or new ways of approaching situations, individuals can often experience greater life satisfaction. I would enjoy the opportunity to accompany you on this journey.
Could you benefit from some extra support so you can get back on track to focus on things that are important, so that you spend less time, energy and effort dealing with STRESS? Do you need a place to process things going on with you without the bias that can occur when talking to friends and family? The therapeutic setting can give you the opportunity to learn and grow. With these paradigm shifts, or new ways of approaching situations, individuals can often experience greater life satisfaction. I would enjoy the opportunity to accompany you on this journey.
(855) 300-4607 View (855) 300-4607
Photo of Linda Anaya, MA, MHC, AMFT, LPC, Counselor
Linda Anaya
Counselor, MA, MHC, AMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
(630) 478-8548 x3 View (630) 478-8548 x3
Photo of Amanda Jeffrey Platter, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Jeffrey Platter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Being our most resilient, healthy self is a process of acceptance and skill building. It is particularly hard when anger, sadness, and worry get in the way of connecting with others, advancing professionally, or maintaining health. It is important to have a safe place to process and solve life transitions without judgment. I utilize evidenced based psychotherapy and assessment to restore value based cognitions, mindfulness and healthy behaviors. Specialized treatment planning is the first stage of the process. Adults, adolescents, couples, and specialized assessment cases (ages 7 to 80+) are encouraged to schedule a consultation appointment.
Being our most resilient, healthy self is a process of acceptance and skill building. It is particularly hard when anger, sadness, and worry get in the way of connecting with others, advancing professionally, or maintaining health. It is important to have a safe place to process and solve life transitions without judgment. I utilize evidenced based psychotherapy and assessment to restore value based cognitions, mindfulness and healthy behaviors. Specialized treatment planning is the first stage of the process. Adults, adolescents, couples, and specialized assessment cases (ages 7 to 80+) are encouraged to schedule a consultation appointment.
(808) 201-0365 View (808) 201-0365
Photo of Alison Steiner, PsyD, Psychologist
Alison Steiner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
As a clinical psychologist, I have a broad base of training and experience working with individuals seeking help with a wide range of clinical issues as well as life transitions and personal growth. I emphasize an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative process. From a practical approach comes a goal of transformation: allowing for new patterns of thought and behavior, and a more balanced and flourishing life.
As a clinical psychologist, I have a broad base of training and experience working with individuals seeking help with a wide range of clinical issues as well as life transitions and personal growth. I emphasize an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative process. From a practical approach comes a goal of transformation: allowing for new patterns of thought and behavior, and a more balanced and flourishing life.
(808) 784-7928 View (808) 784-7928
Photo of Misty T. Bradley, BA, LMT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Misty T. Bradley
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, LMT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Misty Tashina Bradley (she/they), BA, LMT is a graduate student at Chaminade University. She will receive her master’s degree in counseling psychology with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy in the Spring of 2024. Misty holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Anthropology and English Literature. Misty has extensive experience traveling and living abroad. Born in the Central Plains of Texas, she descends from multiple lineages of tribespeople from the river basins of the Rio Grande to the Northern Great Plains, and poor Irish immigrants.
Misty Tashina Bradley (she/they), BA, LMT is a graduate student at Chaminade University. She will receive her master’s degree in counseling psychology with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy in the Spring of 2024. Misty holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Anthropology and English Literature. Misty has extensive experience traveling and living abroad. Born in the Central Plains of Texas, she descends from multiple lineages of tribespeople from the river basins of the Rio Grande to the Northern Great Plains, and poor Irish immigrants.
(808) 755-3227 View (808) 755-3227
Photo of Ramona Estrada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ramona Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I believe that we all have the answers to our own problems, but may need help exploring and bringing them to light. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I can assist with gaining new insights for positive self-growth in a warm and compassionate setting . I have over twenty years experience working with adolescents with behavioral challenges, adult severe and persistent illness, and addictions.
I believe that we all have the answers to our own problems, but may need help exploring and bringing them to light. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I can assist with gaining new insights for positive self-growth in a warm and compassionate setting . I have over twenty years experience working with adolescents with behavioral challenges, adult severe and persistent illness, and addictions.
(808) 201-5247 View (808) 201-5247
Photo of Sze Nga Lam, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sze Nga Lam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I work with clients statewide via telehealth and have had over 15 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, families, and adolescents. I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, life-cycle transitions, trauma, and grief. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing space where my clients can explore and embrace their authentic selves.
I work with clients statewide via telehealth and have had over 15 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, families, and adolescents. I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, life-cycle transitions, trauma, and grief. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing space where my clients can explore and embrace their authentic selves.
(567) 280-5995 View (567) 280-5995
Photo of Julius Phillip Jones, LCMHC, Counselor
Julius Phillip Jones
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Aloha, I'm Phillip My name is Phillip Jones and I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Hawaii. Over the years I've worked with young adults, couples, middle-aged and our elders going through life transitions, amidst the crises and opportunities of life. My passion is helping people to find their calm and strong inner identity and move into the next phase of their life, career, or relationships with confidence in themselves and their personal strengths. I find that depression and anxiety are very prevalent in our society, and often are the foundation for other emotional and behavioral health issues that arise.
Aloha, I'm Phillip My name is Phillip Jones and I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Hawaii. Over the years I've worked with young adults, couples, middle-aged and our elders going through life transitions, amidst the crises and opportunities of life. My passion is helping people to find their calm and strong inner identity and move into the next phase of their life, career, or relationships with confidence in themselves and their personal strengths. I find that depression and anxiety are very prevalent in our society, and often are the foundation for other emotional and behavioral health issues that arise.
(618) 621-2077 View (618) 621-2077
Photo of Malgorzata Krepps, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Malgorzata Krepps
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
People use therapy to help change themselves or deal with life challenges. Oftentimes, therapy may involve revealing significant parts of ourselves, our relationships, or life circumstances. Therapy can help reduce or alleviate problems to help us live more fulfilling lives. Therapy is a partnership between you and me. Together, we identify the goals of your treatment, we work on skills, and we resolve to improve ourselves and our life conditions. I believe there are various ways to approach issues. My experience and belief is that many of our life’s challenges and pains stem from the way we think about ourselves and the world.
People use therapy to help change themselves or deal with life challenges. Oftentimes, therapy may involve revealing significant parts of ourselves, our relationships, or life circumstances. Therapy can help reduce or alleviate problems to help us live more fulfilling lives. Therapy is a partnership between you and me. Together, we identify the goals of your treatment, we work on skills, and we resolve to improve ourselves and our life conditions. I believe there are various ways to approach issues. My experience and belief is that many of our life’s challenges and pains stem from the way we think about ourselves and the world.
(808) 464-5027 View (808) 464-5027

See more therapy options for Kailua Kona

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
81% Self Esteem
78% Coping Skills
75% Trauma and PTSD
72% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Hawaii Medical Services Association
51% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association
47% University Health Alliance

How Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kailua Kona?

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.