Therapists in Altoona, IA
![Photo of Josh Vander Zwaag, LMSW, CFRA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56db87e6-6bae-4754-8d92-e4a4ca3e3655/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW Clients (Telehealth & In-Person) As a mental health therapist, and a former police officer, I have over 15 years of combined experience in law enforcement and clinical counseling, and a unique perspective to life challenges. My mission is to make a positive impact and a difference in the lives of my clients by creating a safe and comfortable environment where they can explore, grow, and heal. I am passionate about supporting and enhancing the mental health and well-being of individuals, couples, families, college students, first responders (active/retired), and military veterans (active/retired).
Accepting NEW Clients (Telehealth & In-Person) As a mental health therapist, and a former police officer, I have over 15 years of combined experience in law enforcement and clinical counseling, and a unique perspective to life challenges. My mission is to make a positive impact and a difference in the lives of my clients by creating a safe and comfortable environment where they can explore, grow, and heal. I am passionate about supporting and enhancing the mental health and well-being of individuals, couples, families, college students, first responders (active/retired), and military veterans (active/retired).
![Photo of Jessica Aldrich, MA, LMHC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b888a1b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Aldrich
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Altoona, IA 50009
Not accepting new clients
I believe we are all capable of growth & change. We have the power within ourselves to make the changes necessary to live life to its fullest. At times, we need help with achieving & maintaining these changes. Mental health therapy can help by promoting growth & helping find the strengths one already has within them. At Tranquility Counseling, I will support you with learning those strengths & develop new skills to promote growth & change with a new sense of confidence. I believe one can build this confidence with the support in a safe, comfortable environment & strong therapeutic relationship.
I believe we are all capable of growth & change. We have the power within ourselves to make the changes necessary to live life to its fullest. At times, we need help with achieving & maintaining these changes. Mental health therapy can help by promoting growth & helping find the strengths one already has within them. At Tranquility Counseling, I will support you with learning those strengths & develop new skills to promote growth & change with a new sense of confidence. I believe one can build this confidence with the support in a safe, comfortable environment & strong therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Annie Lass, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47336ce0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Lass
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Altoona, IA 50009
Not accepting new clients
As a clinician, I utilize a holistic and trauma-sensitive approach when meeting in sessions. I strive to develop an environment of connection, safety, and comfortability for you to be able to discuss your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to ensure that your goals are being met through the therapy process. My desire is for you to be able to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a clinician, I utilize a holistic and trauma-sensitive approach when meeting in sessions. I strive to develop an environment of connection, safety, and comfortability for you to be able to discuss your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to ensure that your goals are being met through the therapy process. My desire is for you to be able to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Cara Sanders - Healing Rock Counseling , Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dee23394-83a3-40bb-aab5-64fbfef96131/1/320x400.jpeg)
The providers are Healing Rock Counseling are committed to assisting you on your journey towards healing. We believe that you don't have to have it figured out to move forward. We have therapists available for individual, family, and couples counseling sessions.
The providers are Healing Rock Counseling are committed to assisting you on your journey towards healing. We believe that you don't have to have it figured out to move forward. We have therapists available for individual, family, and couples counseling sessions.
![Photo of Emma Hendricks, MA, LMHC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16fc5929-8bdb-471b-a5eb-34c804dc7282/3/320x400.jpeg)
My purpose as a counselor is to support you in making positive changes in your life. I strive to create a safe and open space to foster growth through meaningful self-reflection and empowerment. It is not uncommon to feel stuck at times and I believe the key to healing is through connection. I will work collaboratively with you to meet you where you are on your journey toward emotional wellness and stability.
My purpose as a counselor is to support you in making positive changes in your life. I strive to create a safe and open space to foster growth through meaningful self-reflection and empowerment. It is not uncommon to feel stuck at times and I believe the key to healing is through connection. I will work collaboratively with you to meet you where you are on your journey toward emotional wellness and stability.
![Photo of Cara Sanders, MS, NCC, LMHC , CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78002249-90d9-4077-a5dc-87aa83d66ae5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cara Sanders
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC , CADC
Verified Verified
Altoona, IA 50009
Not accepting new clients
"You don't have to have it figured out to move forward." I strive to provide client-centered and compassionate care to individuals ages 12+, couples, and families. I believe that at the heart of good client care is a healthy therapeutic relationship. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I am trained in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and utilize trauma-informed approaches in my therapy practice. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe that all individuals possess the power to heal themselves. I can assist you on that journey. I am now offering telehealth services.
"You don't have to have it figured out to move forward." I strive to provide client-centered and compassionate care to individuals ages 12+, couples, and families. I believe that at the heart of good client care is a healthy therapeutic relationship. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I am trained in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and utilize trauma-informed approaches in my therapy practice. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe that all individuals possess the power to heal themselves. I can assist you on that journey. I am now offering telehealth services.
![Photo of Brandy Stephen, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba6ac3f7-0e5b-4143-bb4e-1cef3bb0cfec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brandy Stephen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Altoona, IA 50009
Waitlist for new clients
We all make our own way through life's journey and encounter hardships, and while these circumstances are temporary their impact influences us for a lifetime. If anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment/change or other struggles are interfering with your life, therapy may help you become more self-aware, to learn to love and accept yourself, enhance relationships, and improve your overall quality and functioning in life. I have a passion for helping people navigate life's struggles and assist them toward realizing their goals; I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to assist others on their journey of self-reflection.
We all make our own way through life's journey and encounter hardships, and while these circumstances are temporary their impact influences us for a lifetime. If anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment/change or other struggles are interfering with your life, therapy may help you become more self-aware, to learn to love and accept yourself, enhance relationships, and improve your overall quality and functioning in life. I have a passion for helping people navigate life's struggles and assist them toward realizing their goals; I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to assist others on their journey of self-reflection.
![Photo of Angela Ruiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b72c6ef-469a-42b5-8cfc-0e6189af230d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! Life gives us many different experiences and from those experiences we become stronger and more knowledgeable. My experiences, personally and professionally, have made me competent in the areas of adoption, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD, autism, grief, and life transitions. I work with all ages and find it a privilege to work with everyone, regardless of age, race, religion and sexual orientation.
Hi there! Life gives us many different experiences and from those experiences we become stronger and more knowledgeable. My experiences, personally and professionally, have made me competent in the areas of adoption, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD, autism, grief, and life transitions. I work with all ages and find it a privilege to work with everyone, regardless of age, race, religion and sexual orientation.
![Photo of Brent Douglas, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4947a06a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Freedom and relief from emotional and relational struggles is possible. Anxiety, depression, and other internal conflicts are very real and more common than most people realize. You do not have to be alone in the struggle. I will come alongside you as you move towards a healthy and satisfying life.
Freedom and relief from emotional and relational struggles is possible. Anxiety, depression, and other internal conflicts are very real and more common than most people realize. You do not have to be alone in the struggle. I will come alongside you as you move towards a healthy and satisfying life.
![Photo of Kenneth Dwayne Cameron, MA, NCC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54dee0a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Today you are one step closer to achieving your goals and beginning a positive path toward growth and well-being. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work to better understand and resolve challenges in life. Applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will begin to change long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions holding you back from a more fulfilling and meaningful life.If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or ready to move in a new direction in life, I look forward to assisting you to achieve.
Today you are one step closer to achieving your goals and beginning a positive path toward growth and well-being. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work to better understand and resolve challenges in life. Applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will begin to change long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions holding you back from a more fulfilling and meaningful life.If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or ready to move in a new direction in life, I look forward to assisting you to achieve.
![Photo of Nan King, LMHC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdee298-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a personalized approach tailored to each persons needs to help you attain the personal growth you desire. Most people experience difficulties at some point in their lives. If you are experiencing problems, there is hope. Counseling provides a safe, warm, supportive relationship where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings, find support, and learn new strategies for coping with situations and emotions.
My desire is to work with you to develop new patterns in your life that can lead to healthier coping skills, increased confidence, and a greater sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
I provide a personalized approach tailored to each persons needs to help you attain the personal growth you desire. Most people experience difficulties at some point in their lives. If you are experiencing problems, there is hope. Counseling provides a safe, warm, supportive relationship where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings, find support, and learn new strategies for coping with situations and emotions.
My desire is to work with you to develop new patterns in your life that can lead to healthier coping skills, increased confidence, and a greater sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
![Photo of Michael Huff, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5512be0-ec5c-47dd-8e0c-ebe205d5b9ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Huff
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altoona, IA 50009
Not accepting new clients
Most people experience difficulties at some point in their lives. If you are experiencing problems, there is hope. Counseling provides a safe, warm and supportive relationship where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Learn to transform from a life where you survive to one where you thrive. Through individualized approach, focused on providing empathy and understanding, together we will magnify existing strengths and assistance to generate and implement a unique individualized solution to life's struggles and challenges.
Most people experience difficulties at some point in their lives. If you are experiencing problems, there is hope. Counseling provides a safe, warm and supportive relationship where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings. Learn to transform from a life where you survive to one where you thrive. Through individualized approach, focused on providing empathy and understanding, together we will magnify existing strengths and assistance to generate and implement a unique individualized solution to life's struggles and challenges.
![Photo of Anne Lolwing, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2420dee8-e484-43bd-9cc4-d55e95dfa476/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who works with individuals, couples and families who are struggling to manage life circumstances. I provide a non-judgmental, safe and supportive environment that offers guidance to help meet your goals through open and honest conversation.
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who works with individuals, couples and families who are struggling to manage life circumstances. I provide a non-judgmental, safe and supportive environment that offers guidance to help meet your goals through open and honest conversation.
![Photo of Angela Emerson - Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy, LISW, CCTP, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77c5d02d-db5b-43d1-a133-1f85ddbcd57d/1/320x400.png)
Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CCTP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Altoona, IA 50009
We know that many of us feel that we try so hard to find contentment and happiness in life, but ultimately feel that we either get lost in the maze of life, or we come to a dead end. Our office can be a way to assist you in discovering your path through the maze. Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy seeks to empower individuals to embrace their journey towards mental health wellness with compassionate care, personalized support, and evidence-based interventions. Our mission is to foster resilience, healing, and growth by providing accessible, inclusive, and holistic mental health services tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
We know that many of us feel that we try so hard to find contentment and happiness in life, but ultimately feel that we either get lost in the maze of life, or we come to a dead end. Our office can be a way to assist you in discovering your path through the maze. Pathways to Growth Psychotherapy seeks to empower individuals to embrace their journey towards mental health wellness with compassionate care, personalized support, and evidence-based interventions. Our mission is to foster resilience, healing, and growth by providing accessible, inclusive, and holistic mental health services tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
![Photo of Laurie Fein - Fein Therapy Services, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d01fbc2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
![Photo of Shelly Stewart-Sandusky-Therapy Group Inc., MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c77d01f-ad23-4c22-998f-6da1c63d58cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelly Stewart-Sandusky-Therapy Group Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altoona, IA 50009
Hello. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with couples and individuals needing help with relationship issues. I thrive on working with couples struggling with infidelity, rebuilding trust or communication/fair fighting and high conflict. The dynamic of a couple is unique and should be approached as such. I believe that every relationship can work and be healthy for both partners if both partners are willing to do the work and make changes. I am also certifified in treatment of personality disorders and am able to help in both individual and couples dynamics.
Hello. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with couples and individuals needing help with relationship issues. I thrive on working with couples struggling with infidelity, rebuilding trust or communication/fair fighting and high conflict. The dynamic of a couple is unique and should be approached as such. I believe that every relationship can work and be healthy for both partners if both partners are willing to do the work and make changes. I am also certifified in treatment of personality disorders and am able to help in both individual and couples dynamics.
![Photo of Jill R Sudak-Allison, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8bd2896-9f9f-467d-993a-0ebb25494b29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
![Photo of Eliza Lower, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ff97af-fa4e-4522-8ca3-84b4a9cd1f8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eliza Lower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altoona, IA 50009
Sometimes life is really hard and having someone to talk to, can make all the difference. Hello! My name is Eliza and I look forward to supporting you in your therapy journey. With over 15 years of experience as a mental health therapist, I specialize in working with adults and teens on challenges with everyday life stressors and changes, anxiety, trauma, body/image and grief/loss as well as therapy for other mental health providers. I am trained in a variety of modalities including EMDR, TF-CBT and DBT.
Sometimes life is really hard and having someone to talk to, can make all the difference. Hello! My name is Eliza and I look forward to supporting you in your therapy journey. With over 15 years of experience as a mental health therapist, I specialize in working with adults and teens on challenges with everyday life stressors and changes, anxiety, trauma, body/image and grief/loss as well as therapy for other mental health providers. I am trained in a variety of modalities including EMDR, TF-CBT and DBT.
![Photo of Myriah Brookhart, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9760c786-9d9c-4fa1-97af-f8405458aa18/2/320x400.jpeg)
Myriah Brookhart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altoona, IA 50009
It is my belief that everyone has the potential to grow. I am passionate about creating a safe space while empowering clients to identify and explore their emotional experiences, so they can live healthier and more satisfying lives.
It is my belief that everyone has the potential to grow. I am passionate about creating a safe space while empowering clients to identify and explore their emotional experiences, so they can live healthier and more satisfying lives.
![Photo of Marissa Franklin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/311aa56d-791d-48dc-9fc0-cb454bb8b06a/2/320x400.png)
Marissa Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altoona, IA 50009
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. Therapy services should focus on you. Your needs, Your barriers, Your voice. Your mental health. It’s all about YOU! As a therapist I want to provide a space that can be all about you. I strive to create a place that feels safe and welcoming for you to explore and initiate personal growth. I enjoy using a combination of approaches from client- centered, strengths- based, play therapy to meditation and mindfulness. Processing and healing from your experiences is a priority to me.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. Therapy services should focus on you. Your needs, Your barriers, Your voice. Your mental health. It’s all about YOU! As a therapist I want to provide a space that can be all about you. I strive to create a place that feels safe and welcoming for you to explore and initiate personal growth. I enjoy using a combination of approaches from client- centered, strengths- based, play therapy to meditation and mindfulness. Processing and healing from your experiences is a priority to me.
See more therapy options for Altoona
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Altoona, IA
20+
Average cost per session
$165
Therapists in Altoona, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Coping Skills |
85% | Relationship Issues |
85% | Grief |
85% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
81% | Wellmark BCBS |
62% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Altoona, IA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Altoona?
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.