Therapists in Harrisburg, PA

Photo of Sarah Kushnir, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Kushnir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
My ideal client would be someone that is willing to be present in treatment and open to the process of understanding themselves. I am open to treating anyone with a willingness to participate and collaborate with me as I view treatment as a journey of working together rather than me solely guiding treatment. I would want clients to be willing to learn skills and apply them in order to thrive in their lives rather than survive.
My ideal client would be someone that is willing to be present in treatment and open to the process of understanding themselves. I am open to treating anyone with a willingness to participate and collaborate with me as I view treatment as a journey of working together rather than me solely guiding treatment. I would want clients to be willing to learn skills and apply them in order to thrive in their lives rather than survive.
(717) 790-5367 View (717) 790-5367
Photo of Vivian Harris - Vivian Speaks LLC, LMSW, MSW, CADC, CCHW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vivian Speaks LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW, CADC, CCHW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
Life's changes can be crucial and consistent, especially within the last two years. Trying to deal with stressful situations can lead to depression and/or negative decision making. Any situation can be addressed and managed with positive results. Let's talk! With an open mind, a listening ear, and the appropriate tools, you can make changes in any obstacle in your life with confidence and a solution based outlook! The life changes that were once a struggle in your life may become the learning experience to make those goals successful!
Life's changes can be crucial and consistent, especially within the last two years. Trying to deal with stressful situations can lead to depression and/or negative decision making. Any situation can be addressed and managed with positive results. Let's talk! With an open mind, a listening ear, and the appropriate tools, you can make changes in any obstacle in your life with confidence and a solution based outlook! The life changes that were once a struggle in your life may become the learning experience to make those goals successful!
(223) 218-4334 View (223) 218-4334
Photo of Jessica Martin, MSW, LSW
Jessica Martin
MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17102  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or just feeling lost? Life can sometimes be very challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. I provide a confidential, safe, and trusting environment allowing children, adults, and families to engage in supportive and transformational change. My therapeutic approach is designed to help address the issues related to the challenges faced during life's journey. I am passionate and excited to help you unlock the life you have always wanted to live. Let me help you along in your journey to living your best life!
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or just feeling lost? Life can sometimes be very challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. I provide a confidential, safe, and trusting environment allowing children, adults, and families to engage in supportive and transformational change. My therapeutic approach is designed to help address the issues related to the challenges faced during life's journey. I am passionate and excited to help you unlock the life you have always wanted to live. Let me help you along in your journey to living your best life!
(717) 892-5804 View (717) 892-5804
Photo of Kareem L. Smith, MS,  CTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kareem L. Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CTP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Waitlist for new clients
We all want to be seen, heard, and have our feelings, thoughts, and life experiences validated. Treatment should be based on each individual needs and goals with a therapist-client relationship that is empathetic, genuine, respectful, and culturally sensitive. My goal is to implement a person-centered, strength-based, and cognitive-behavioral therapeutic approach that is tailored and empathic to your needs.
We all want to be seen, heard, and have our feelings, thoughts, and life experiences validated. Treatment should be based on each individual needs and goals with a therapist-client relationship that is empathetic, genuine, respectful, and culturally sensitive. My goal is to implement a person-centered, strength-based, and cognitive-behavioral therapeutic approach that is tailored and empathic to your needs.
(717) 963-2578 View (717) 963-2578
Photo of Gloria Ward, MA, MS, LAPC, BCC
Gloria Ward
Associate Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LAPC, BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Hi, I'm Gloria! Thank you for pausing here. Deciding to look for help was hard to begin with and finding the right helper seems even more difficult, I know. Whatever issues you are facing, perhaps its depression that is attached to your past, stress related to your present, or anxiety that is attaching itself to your future, I can help you work through it. It’s a privilege for me to be able to share lessons of hope and walk alongside my clients, until they have the breakthrough that they so desperately desire. My greatest joy is to see you step out from darkness into a brighter, lighter future – stronger, wiser, and hopeful!
Hi, I'm Gloria! Thank you for pausing here. Deciding to look for help was hard to begin with and finding the right helper seems even more difficult, I know. Whatever issues you are facing, perhaps its depression that is attached to your past, stress related to your present, or anxiety that is attaching itself to your future, I can help you work through it. It’s a privilege for me to be able to share lessons of hope and walk alongside my clients, until they have the breakthrough that they so desperately desire. My greatest joy is to see you step out from darkness into a brighter, lighter future – stronger, wiser, and hopeful!
(717) 647-5730 View (717) 647-5730
Photo of Carissa Shobe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa Shobe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Carissa is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 12 years of experience, specializing in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, personality disorders, and severe mental illness. She treats patients above the age of 14 by using a holistic, trauma-informed approach to support a person's strengths, reduce distress associated with maladaptive coping mechanisms, and develop ways to better manage stress. Carissa aims to provide individuals with the tools and skills to live a life in line with their goals related to personal growth.
Carissa is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 12 years of experience, specializing in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, PTSD, personality disorders, and severe mental illness. She treats patients above the age of 14 by using a holistic, trauma-informed approach to support a person's strengths, reduce distress associated with maladaptive coping mechanisms, and develop ways to better manage stress. Carissa aims to provide individuals with the tools and skills to live a life in line with their goals related to personal growth.
(717) 993-1885 View (717) 993-1885
Photo of Sarah Miller - Sarah Miller LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Miller LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Navigating these challenging times can often feel impossible. You’re not alone! Whether you are grieving the loss of a dear friend or loved one, coping with changes in relationships and routines, facing a chronic illness that is making it hard to even get out of bed some days, or you just feel stuck, overwhelmed, and don’t see a way through your circumstances, I’m here to help! Together, we can develop tools that will prove to be a steady anchor, restoring hope that you can weather life’s future storms.
Navigating these challenging times can often feel impossible. You’re not alone! Whether you are grieving the loss of a dear friend or loved one, coping with changes in relationships and routines, facing a chronic illness that is making it hard to even get out of bed some days, or you just feel stuck, overwhelmed, and don’t see a way through your circumstances, I’m here to help! Together, we can develop tools that will prove to be a steady anchor, restoring hope that you can weather life’s future storms.
(717) 937-8065 View (717) 937-8065
Photo of Vicki Glabb (Telehealth Only), MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vicki Glabb (Telehealth Only)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Vicki is proud to offer Telehealth services at Reigle Therapeutics Group to meet your every day needs! Psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings... Psychotherapeutic support to First Responder, Military, and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and and professional impacts of the work they do.
Vicki is proud to offer Telehealth services at Reigle Therapeutics Group to meet your every day needs! Psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings... Psychotherapeutic support to First Responder, Military, and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and and professional impacts of the work they do.
(717) 265-9790 View (717) 265-9790
Photo of Collaborative Mental Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Collaborative Mental Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
My name is Duronn Stern and I am the owner of Collaborative Mental Wellness. I know dealing with life can be difficult. Creating a pathway towards change to improve your life sometimes requires help without the fear of being judged. Allow me to collaborate with you a trustworthy, confidential, and therapeutic alliance. Together we can navigate issues and/or concerns that prevent you from fully thriving. Whether it be an obstacle you are currently facing, or past trauma, together we can do the work to help reposition you to reach your full potential. I know how important it is to be heard, understood, and accepted.
My name is Duronn Stern and I am the owner of Collaborative Mental Wellness. I know dealing with life can be difficult. Creating a pathway towards change to improve your life sometimes requires help without the fear of being judged. Allow me to collaborate with you a trustworthy, confidential, and therapeutic alliance. Together we can navigate issues and/or concerns that prevent you from fully thriving. Whether it be an obstacle you are currently facing, or past trauma, together we can do the work to help reposition you to reach your full potential. I know how important it is to be heard, understood, and accepted.
(717) 219-5349 View (717) 219-5349
Photo of Talayna Bowersox, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talayna Bowersox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Waitlist for new clients
The first step is recognizing your desire to change and having a therapist who can validate and empower you is very important. My primary goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and strength-based approaches to allow you to become more self-aware and grow in a positive direction. My focus is meeting you where you are at, helping you learn new approaches, viewing things in a different light, and achieving your goals.
The first step is recognizing your desire to change and having a therapist who can validate and empower you is very important. My primary goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and strength-based approaches to allow you to become more self-aware and grow in a positive direction. My focus is meeting you where you are at, helping you learn new approaches, viewing things in a different light, and achieving your goals.
(717) 949-7391 View (717) 949-7391
Photo of Jessi Nocella, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessi Nocella
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
Are you ready to prioritize your health and wellness? For over 20 years, I've had the privilege of helping clients like you achieve a sense of well-being and inner peace. In our therapy sessions, I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself, to talk openly, and make decisions about how to best reach your goals. Your thoughts and feelings are important to me, and I value the opportunity to build a genuine connection with you. My mission is to help uncover or rediscover your strengths, gain clarity and stability, and move forward in life.
Are you ready to prioritize your health and wellness? For over 20 years, I've had the privilege of helping clients like you achieve a sense of well-being and inner peace. In our therapy sessions, I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself, to talk openly, and make decisions about how to best reach your goals. Your thoughts and feelings are important to me, and I value the opportunity to build a genuine connection with you. My mission is to help uncover or rediscover your strengths, gain clarity and stability, and move forward in life.
(223) 229-5369 View (223) 229-5369
Photo of Sarah Du, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Du
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
My work focuses on making sense of what feels complex, placing it into words, and meaningful action. This can include struggling to balance personal wants and expectations of others, conflict due to living in dual cultures, trauma from substance abuse, racism, or worry and sadness. I provide therapy that is conversational with feedback, humor, curiosity, and partnership. The work we do together will consider all sociopolitical factors, community, beliefs, abilities, and all that is inherently important and has impacted you because who you are and what you need, reaches beyond your emotions.
My work focuses on making sense of what feels complex, placing it into words, and meaningful action. This can include struggling to balance personal wants and expectations of others, conflict due to living in dual cultures, trauma from substance abuse, racism, or worry and sadness. I provide therapy that is conversational with feedback, humor, curiosity, and partnership. The work we do together will consider all sociopolitical factors, community, beliefs, abilities, and all that is inherently important and has impacted you because who you are and what you need, reaches beyond your emotions.
(412) 284-6944 View (412) 284-6944
Photo of Peter Kozel, PsyD, Psychologist
Peter Kozel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
I enjoy working with clients with a wide range of backgrounds, presenting problems, and personality styles. To me, therapy is a way of not only reducing symptoms, but creating a life that allows for greater joy, psychological resilience, and fulfillment. Whether you have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, feelings of emptiness, questions of self-worth, difficulties with self-compassion and acceptance, having unsatisfying relationships, or just that something feels “off” in your life, my role is to collaborate with my clients and find that missing piece or inner peace that is essential for healing and growth.
I enjoy working with clients with a wide range of backgrounds, presenting problems, and personality styles. To me, therapy is a way of not only reducing symptoms, but creating a life that allows for greater joy, psychological resilience, and fulfillment. Whether you have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, feelings of emptiness, questions of self-worth, difficulties with self-compassion and acceptance, having unsatisfying relationships, or just that something feels “off” in your life, my role is to collaborate with my clients and find that missing piece or inner peace that is essential for healing and growth.
(717) 229-9468 View (717) 229-9468
Photo of Candace N Johnson - Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC., MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
My name is Candace Johnson and I am the owner of Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC. We are interested in helping you learn how to "Soar with Purpose" ,through the challenges you may be facing. Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; our mission is to help you learn practical skill to improve your life. We provide a compassionate non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows you to express yourself, uncover your barriers, and identify things standing in the way of your happiness.
My name is Candace Johnson and I am the owner of Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC. We are interested in helping you learn how to "Soar with Purpose" ,through the challenges you may be facing. Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; our mission is to help you learn practical skill to improve your life. We provide a compassionate non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows you to express yourself, uncover your barriers, and identify things standing in the way of your happiness.
(717) 366-6723 View (717) 366-6723
Photo of Teni Osundeko - Teni Counseling & Consulting Services, PhD, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teni Counseling & Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
Are you going through a life transition or feeling depressed, anxious or stressed? You don't have to struggle anymore. I will come along side you to work through life's challenges. I provide therapy with compasssion, respect and integrity to help you improve your emotional well being. I am deeply commited to assisting individuals make positive changes and develop emotional wellness. Using a strengths perspective, I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to share your concerns and begin to develop new solutions. My approach to therapy is client centered, goal oriented and solution focused.
Are you going through a life transition or feeling depressed, anxious or stressed? You don't have to struggle anymore. I will come along side you to work through life's challenges. I provide therapy with compasssion, respect and integrity to help you improve your emotional well being. I am deeply commited to assisting individuals make positive changes and develop emotional wellness. Using a strengths perspective, I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to share your concerns and begin to develop new solutions. My approach to therapy is client centered, goal oriented and solution focused.
(717) 469-5972 View (717) 469-5972
Photo of Odette Morris, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Odette Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Hello, and thank you for viewing my profile. I am a Master’s Level Licensed Professional Counselor with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Behavioral Sciences from Penn State University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. My clinical experience includes working in various settings, including outpatient mental health treatment, partial hospitalization, university substance abuse programming, within the prison system, and wraparound services with children, families, communities, and schools.
Hello, and thank you for viewing my profile. I am a Master’s Level Licensed Professional Counselor with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Behavioral Sciences from Penn State University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. My clinical experience includes working in various settings, including outpatient mental health treatment, partial hospitalization, university substance abuse programming, within the prison system, and wraparound services with children, families, communities, and schools.
(717) 640-3687 View (717) 640-3687
Photo of Becky Stoudt, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becky Stoudt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Life is a journey. Full of possibilities, choices, and opportunities to utilize personal strengths. The journey isn't solely about reaching the end point/destination. It's about the experience and what one may discover about self and personal potential. If you are interested in having support along some of the way, please feel free to reach out.
Life is a journey. Full of possibilities, choices, and opportunities to utilize personal strengths. The journey isn't solely about reaching the end point/destination. It's about the experience and what one may discover about self and personal potential. If you are interested in having support along some of the way, please feel free to reach out.
(717) 349-1584 View (717) 349-1584
Photo of Tony Reigle, PhD, CCTP-II, NLP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony Reigle
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CCTP-II, NLP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Reigle Therapeutics Group uses virtual and office based services to meet your every day needs! We provide psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings as well as specialize in psychotherapeutic support to First Responders, Veterans/Military and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and professional impacts of the work they do.
Reigle Therapeutics Group uses virtual and office based services to meet your every day needs! We provide psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings as well as specialize in psychotherapeutic support to First Responders, Veterans/Military and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and professional impacts of the work they do.
(717) 952-9508 View (717) 952-9508
Photo of Alexandria Lynn Jones, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria Lynn Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Alexandria is deeply passionate about sex, relationships, and fostering meaningful conversations to bring people closer to their individual self, partner(s), and groups. She wholeheartedly supports people in their healing to develop confidence and take meaningful steps in their life, relationships, intimacy, and sexuality. Alexandria also offers Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as well as Psychedelic Integration Therapy. Psychedelic integration therapy involves supporting you before and/or after an experience with psychedelic medicine.
Alexandria is deeply passionate about sex, relationships, and fostering meaningful conversations to bring people closer to their individual self, partner(s), and groups. She wholeheartedly supports people in their healing to develop confidence and take meaningful steps in their life, relationships, intimacy, and sexuality. Alexandria also offers Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as well as Psychedelic Integration Therapy. Psychedelic integration therapy involves supporting you before and/or after an experience with psychedelic medicine.
(717) 619-8394 View (717) 619-8394
Photo of Dan Karlow, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan Karlow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112  (Online Only)
Many of my clients are men or women who are going through some type of life challenge. Many of these individuals are looking to talk to someone about their relationship, their marriage, their divorce...many are fathers or mothers looking for advice. I have noticed more and more men have tried therapy in the last few years, Many people are at a breaking point, and need help. Sometimes it just takes one person who hears you, understands you and is there to help guide you. The next step is to reach out.
Many of my clients are men or women who are going through some type of life challenge. Many of these individuals are looking to talk to someone about their relationship, their marriage, their divorce...many are fathers or mothers looking for advice. I have noticed more and more men have tried therapy in the last few years, Many people are at a breaking point, and need help. Sometimes it just takes one person who hears you, understands you and is there to help guide you. The next step is to reach out.
(223) 332-4461 View (223) 332-4461
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Harrisburg, PA

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Harrisburg, PA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
66% Relationship Issues
66% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
76% Highmark
73% Optum

How Therapists in Harrisburg, PA see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Harrisburg?

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.