Therapists in Lakeland, FL
![Photo of Jamie G Smith, MA, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20c84118-3034-440c-9cf1-8cfdd8c275ef/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie G Smith
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33803
Another fight? Another ugly stare? Another slammed door? I get it. Right now, the negative interactions probably seem to outweigh the positive ones. Or maybe, there is daily tension, anger, or resentment that continues to build causing long silences, avoidance, or loud and heated exchanges. It is possible to create the relationship you truly desire by making small, daily changes based on a realistic understanding of where you are and where you want to be. Stop running in circles and getting the same results. With time, practice, and a little patience, you will take control AND enjoy life.
Another fight? Another ugly stare? Another slammed door? I get it. Right now, the negative interactions probably seem to outweigh the positive ones. Or maybe, there is daily tension, anger, or resentment that continues to build causing long silences, avoidance, or loud and heated exchanges. It is possible to create the relationship you truly desire by making small, daily changes based on a realistic understanding of where you are and where you want to be. Stop running in circles and getting the same results. With time, practice, and a little patience, you will take control AND enjoy life.
![Photo of Joy Anna Spears, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a4f5c55-f80e-4dd8-a2d9-dc1c0558977b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life often brings unexpected obstacles that seem impossible to overcome on your own. My goal is to provide steadfast support, reminding you that you are not alone in facing these challenges. I warmly welcome clients from diverse backgrounds who seek a compassionate listener and a dedicated partner on their healing journey. Together, we will focus on your goals to promote holistic well-being—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing anxiety and stress, or recovering from PTSD, I bring specialized experience and commitment to help you thrive.
Life often brings unexpected obstacles that seem impossible to overcome on your own. My goal is to provide steadfast support, reminding you that you are not alone in facing these challenges. I warmly welcome clients from diverse backgrounds who seek a compassionate listener and a dedicated partner on their healing journey. Together, we will focus on your goals to promote holistic well-being—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing anxiety and stress, or recovering from PTSD, I bring specialized experience and commitment to help you thrive.
![Photo of Anabellys Lopez, MA, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c780664-a410-47fc-99c7-6ca273440600/2/320x400.png)
Anabellys Lopez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33805
I'm a dedicated and genuine (non-robotic) therapist who provides a safe and inclusive space. I'm here to guide and support you on your transformative journey to mental well-being. Our goal is simple: to empower you to a point where my role becomes unnecessary. Let's work together to make that happen! If you’re someone that prefers to text, feel free to reach me at (813) 438-2212.
I'm a dedicated and genuine (non-robotic) therapist who provides a safe and inclusive space. I'm here to guide and support you on your transformative journey to mental well-being. Our goal is simple: to empower you to a point where my role becomes unnecessary. Let's work together to make that happen! If you’re someone that prefers to text, feel free to reach me at (813) 438-2212.
![Photo of Karen Dube, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84cee376-5fa0-494a-b4c0-1717ba322e07/2/320x400.png)
I am originally from Rhode Island, where I worked as a School Social Worker for 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in 1992 from Emmanuel College in Boston, and my Master's in Social Work from Rhode Island college in 1997.
I am originally from Rhode Island, where I worked as a School Social Worker for 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in 1992 from Emmanuel College in Boston, and my Master's in Social Work from Rhode Island college in 1997.
![Photo of Carol Evans Ryan, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d564b7f-caa0-4886-b605-b5b581fcbcf5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Congratulations on taking the first step toward healing and mental health! I specialize in trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociative disorders, including DID.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward healing and mental health! I specialize in trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociative disorders, including DID.
![Photo of Ruthie A Kimmons, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52902997-8ced-4685-8185-2269f26d09e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Weekend and Evening Appointments Available. Feeling overwhelmed or undefeated in your current situation? Is the backpack on your back overflowing? Let me provide you a safe place, where you can unwind and talk about your fears, heartaches, and stressors. Sitting on my couch, things will become uncomfortable, because change does not happen without discomfort. It does not matter what stage you are in, in your life (children, teens, adults or seniors) your feelings are important, and I want to help you understand how your life experiences have shaped the behaviors and feelings you're struggling with today.
Weekend and Evening Appointments Available. Feeling overwhelmed or undefeated in your current situation? Is the backpack on your back overflowing? Let me provide you a safe place, where you can unwind and talk about your fears, heartaches, and stressors. Sitting on my couch, things will become uncomfortable, because change does not happen without discomfort. It does not matter what stage you are in, in your life (children, teens, adults or seniors) your feelings are important, and I want to help you understand how your life experiences have shaped the behaviors and feelings you're struggling with today.
![Photo of Valerie Varan, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a871e435-96ae-4624-b417-52ab027a0f3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Varan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813 (Online Only)
Let’s find you holistic solutions to life’s stressors. Many of you feel dissatisfied with your job or career, seek a sense of purpose, or need more confidence, assertiveness, or resume writing help to match your skills to the position or field you want. Some of you wonder if it’s too late to pursue your dreams. For those of you who feel lost, don’t know who you really are and feel like an imposter at work or in your relationships, I can help you feel the real you, often for the first time. Perhaps you need natural ways to cope with stress, improve mood/sleep, gain energy, find work-parenting-life balance, mental clarity and focus.
Let’s find you holistic solutions to life’s stressors. Many of you feel dissatisfied with your job or career, seek a sense of purpose, or need more confidence, assertiveness, or resume writing help to match your skills to the position or field you want. Some of you wonder if it’s too late to pursue your dreams. For those of you who feel lost, don’t know who you really are and feel like an imposter at work or in your relationships, I can help you feel the real you, often for the first time. Perhaps you need natural ways to cope with stress, improve mood/sleep, gain energy, find work-parenting-life balance, mental clarity and focus.
![Photo of Maurice J Donaldson, MA, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75882c5a-454f-4247-92e7-b763d9c24b13/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maurice J Donaldson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are constant issues between you and your partner leading your relationship to a place of hopelessness? Are feelings of unhappiness causing you to lack motivation in doing the things you once enjoyed? Are unpleasant memories of a traumatic event creating nightmares or keeping you on edge? If this describes you, I believe I can help. Managing conflict in healthy ways helps restore hope in a relationship. Feeling good about yourself and the joys of life increase happiness and motivation to do what you desire. Learning to reduce stress levels in exposure to trauma helps you relax and focus on healing your mind, body, and spirit.
Are constant issues between you and your partner leading your relationship to a place of hopelessness? Are feelings of unhappiness causing you to lack motivation in doing the things you once enjoyed? Are unpleasant memories of a traumatic event creating nightmares or keeping you on edge? If this describes you, I believe I can help. Managing conflict in healthy ways helps restore hope in a relationship. Feeling good about yourself and the joys of life increase happiness and motivation to do what you desire. Learning to reduce stress levels in exposure to trauma helps you relax and focus on healing your mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Kevin Berry, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8e9386b-af6d-4840-9299-4a966e56835f/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a mental health counselor, I love having the opportunity to help individuals, and couples work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated by someone who genuinely cares, can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. In truth, we all have moments of feeling overwhelmed by life. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive and have positive relationships. I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples. I hope that you will allow me to help you too!
As a mental health counselor, I love having the opportunity to help individuals, and couples work through the challenges that life can bring. Having a safe place to express ourselves and feel supported and validated by someone who genuinely cares, can be a primary and meaningful catalyst to healing. In truth, we all have moments of feeling overwhelmed by life. Adverse experiences and past trauma can have a far-reaching impact on our ability to thrive and have positive relationships. I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples. I hope that you will allow me to help you too!
![Photo of Sage Kirk - The Sage Counseling Center, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f610e717-84fe-4983-8d48-47b46b5e55af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I’m so glad you found us and you’re here. We are radically honest therapists. At The Sage Counseling Center we are real people for real change. No judgment, no hidden agenda. We don’t sit behind a wall and you wonder if you’re being heard yet again. No! We believe in active, direct, and honest conversations and tools that help you live your best life. Counseling can work for what you’re going through because it’s worked for us too. That’s why we believe in it and dedicate our lives to its practice. At The Sage Counseling Center we are real people for real change.
Welcome! I’m so glad you found us and you’re here. We are radically honest therapists. At The Sage Counseling Center we are real people for real change. No judgment, no hidden agenda. We don’t sit behind a wall and you wonder if you’re being heard yet again. No! We believe in active, direct, and honest conversations and tools that help you live your best life. Counseling can work for what you’re going through because it’s worked for us too. That’s why we believe in it and dedicate our lives to its practice. At The Sage Counseling Center we are real people for real change.
![Photo of Gina Claxton - Qualified Lcsw Supervisor, LCSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94488260-a564-4215-aa9d-de883789360d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gina Claxton - Qualified Lcsw Supervisor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33815
Hey there! My name is Gina Claxton and I have been working as a counselor/therapist for over 10 years. I work in private practice and I am also a professor at a local university where I help graduate students become counselors themselves. My counseling style is warm, client-focused and non-judgmental. I aim to create a comfortable and safe space for my clients, where they can express themselves without fear of being judged.
Hey there! My name is Gina Claxton and I have been working as a counselor/therapist for over 10 years. I work in private practice and I am also a professor at a local university where I help graduate students become counselors themselves. My counseling style is warm, client-focused and non-judgmental. I aim to create a comfortable and safe space for my clients, where they can express themselves without fear of being judged.
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![Photo of Hillary Venables, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/007f8fa9-68e4-499b-98ec-702fe6f33752/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hillary Venables
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Hillary and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I completed my undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida. I have been a social worker for 11 years working primarily with teenagers and young adults. Much of my experience has been in the school setting and non-profit sector, working closely with individuals and families during times of crisis. I believe in client-centered, self-directed care. I am not here to make decisions for you, but to guide your growth, empowering you to make decisions for yourself.
Hi! My name is Hillary and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I completed my undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida. I have been a social worker for 11 years working primarily with teenagers and young adults. Much of my experience has been in the school setting and non-profit sector, working closely with individuals and families during times of crisis. I believe in client-centered, self-directed care. I am not here to make decisions for you, but to guide your growth, empowering you to make decisions for yourself.
![Photo of Cyndi Roberts-Morey, LCSW, MCAP, SAP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ee79d5f-d05f-4629-af79-abd768b0c7cc/1/320x400.png)
Cyndi Roberts-Morey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, SAP, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33813
Do you want to change destructive patterns and cycles that have not worked for you? Do you find yourself repeating the same mistakes over and over? Have you suffered from trauma or other issues that have made life difficult? There is help and hope! I have practiced for over 20 years and have the experience to help you learn skills to change unwanted patterns and help you enjoy life.
Do you want to change destructive patterns and cycles that have not worked for you? Do you find yourself repeating the same mistakes over and over? Have you suffered from trauma or other issues that have made life difficult? There is help and hope! I have practiced for over 20 years and have the experience to help you learn skills to change unwanted patterns and help you enjoy life.
![Photo of Michael James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0068d575-107a-4f74-8544-585e62d24f4f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33803 (Online Only)
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.
![Photo of Sama Patel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d91c552b-b1ce-4da6-adce-4daa5dca69e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage/Couples and Family Therapist. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help combat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, dysphoria, trauma & behavioral and mood disorders. I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who enjoys guiding, empowering, and education my clients. I believe it is import to hold the feelings and trust the process of healing. I have a history serving minority populations ranging from race to gender and sexuality. My goal is to make your therapy space a welcoming and a safe environment. We are all on this journey of life and I would love to walk with you if you want me to.
I am a Licensed Marriage/Couples and Family Therapist. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help combat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, dysphoria, trauma & behavioral and mood disorders. I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who enjoys guiding, empowering, and education my clients. I believe it is import to hold the feelings and trust the process of healing. I have a history serving minority populations ranging from race to gender and sexuality. My goal is to make your therapy space a welcoming and a safe environment. We are all on this journey of life and I would love to walk with you if you want me to.
![Photo of Michael Brown, MEd, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d5fb983-6fed-45d7-87bd-165a572cdbd4/1/320x400.png)
I have 40 years experience in mental health. I have a Masters and Specialist Degree in Educational and Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide therapy for children from ages 3-10 years old. I use Parent Child Interaction Therapy.
I have 40 years experience in mental health. I have a Masters and Specialist Degree in Educational and Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide therapy for children from ages 3-10 years old. I use Parent Child Interaction Therapy.
![Photo of Marie Elanus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70e05acb-9ab5-4572-a6fe-f7e19b80be3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marie Elanus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am glad you took the time to devote and invest in your mental health. Kudos to you! This is a huge step and not to be taken lightly. Thank you for believing in yourself to seek additional support. I live in the beautiful sunshine state, Florida. I am licensed in the states of FL, D.C., and MA. As a Christian, I believe in the gift of freedom. If you would like to incorporate Biblical principles within our sessions, we most definitely can. My therapeutic approach involves compassion, care, and understanding.
Welcome! I am glad you took the time to devote and invest in your mental health. Kudos to you! This is a huge step and not to be taken lightly. Thank you for believing in yourself to seek additional support. I live in the beautiful sunshine state, Florida. I am licensed in the states of FL, D.C., and MA. As a Christian, I believe in the gift of freedom. If you would like to incorporate Biblical principles within our sessions, we most definitely can. My therapeutic approach involves compassion, care, and understanding.
![Photo of Lauren Dentler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02480a06-1d90-450d-8887-964a219f36fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Dentler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33813 (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist, my highest priority is to build a warm, trusting relationship with clients. I work with adults who are seeking support in emotional wellness, goal attainment, stressful transitions, and stages of grief. My hope is to partner with an individual to improve quality of life- no matter the stressor.
As a licensed therapist, my highest priority is to build a warm, trusting relationship with clients. I work with adults who are seeking support in emotional wellness, goal attainment, stressful transitions, and stages of grief. My hope is to partner with an individual to improve quality of life- no matter the stressor.
![Photo of Mayelly Alexandra Casal, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c266b1f7-0fea-493d-8902-70505103d455/2/320x400.jpeg)
Loving yourself is not about being self-centered; It's about being CENTERED IN SELF.
Loving yourself is not about being self-centered; It's about being CENTERED IN SELF.
![Photo of Bianca K Strudwick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/263d92e8-b932-4ffd-9b1e-6b0572934b60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bianca K Strudwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33810 (Online Only)
Are you someone who frequently worries and wrestles with anxiety, particularly in your relationships with others? Do you struggle with feelings of being less than worthy, leading you to give a lot more of yourself in hopes of feeling validated? If so, I specialize in helping individuals like you improve their relationship with themselves, get untangled from societal expectations, learn to navigate their anxiety, get empowered to set boundaries, put yourself first and find fulfillment in healthier, more balanced connections with others.
Are you someone who frequently worries and wrestles with anxiety, particularly in your relationships with others? Do you struggle with feelings of being less than worthy, leading you to give a lot more of yourself in hopes of feeling validated? If so, I specialize in helping individuals like you improve their relationship with themselves, get untangled from societal expectations, learn to navigate their anxiety, get empowered to set boundaries, put yourself first and find fulfillment in healthier, more balanced connections with others.
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Number of Therapists in Lakeland, FL
200+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in Lakeland, FL who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
74% | Coping Skills |
74% | Self Esteem |
66% | Stress |
65% | Relationship Issues |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | Aetna |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Lakeland, FL see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Lakeland?
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
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.
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.
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.