Therapists in Austin, TX

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Photo of Lauren Jeanne Ryan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Jeanne Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My passions are helping adults, teens, children navigate ADHD, life transitions and developmental trauma. Navigating life with ADHD can be difficult at any age. I seek to help parents, children and adults learn to accept the gifts and manage the challenges of living a successful life with ADHD. Life transitions are major life events that can be difficult to work through. Developmental trauma occurs when we do not get what we need emotionally from our caregivers as children. Altough often intentional this can leave us feeling damaged and unloved. I seek to help you discover how to connect to and love yourself and others.
My passions are helping adults, teens, children navigate ADHD, life transitions and developmental trauma. Navigating life with ADHD can be difficult at any age. I seek to help parents, children and adults learn to accept the gifts and manage the challenges of living a successful life with ADHD. Life transitions are major life events that can be difficult to work through. Developmental trauma occurs when we do not get what we need emotionally from our caregivers as children. Altough often intentional this can leave us feeling damaged and unloved. I seek to help you discover how to connect to and love yourself and others.
(512) 982-9474 View (512) 982-9474
Photo of Kitty Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kitty Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy providing practical tools to help you navigate through life's inevitable losses and other challenges. I think of myself as a guide, assisting folks through stuck places or daunting challenges, allowing them to increase resilience and personal empowerment. We are living in fascinating times, which can be both exhilarating and terrifying. I encourage embracing the sometimes messy entirety of what life rolls out for each individual.
I enjoy providing practical tools to help you navigate through life's inevitable losses and other challenges. I think of myself as a guide, assisting folks through stuck places or daunting challenges, allowing them to increase resilience and personal empowerment. We are living in fascinating times, which can be both exhilarating and terrifying. I encourage embracing the sometimes messy entirety of what life rolls out for each individual.
(512) 649-0026 View (512) 649-0026
Photo of Taylor Maureen Barstad, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Maureen Barstad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I would describe my therapeutic style as personable, open, warm, accepting and thoughtful. I will always meet my clients where they’re at and include them while creating a personalized treatment plan.
I would describe my therapeutic style as personable, open, warm, accepting and thoughtful. I will always meet my clients where they’re at and include them while creating a personalized treatment plan.
(512) 882-0589 View (512) 882-0589
Photo of Jennifer Moore, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752
Are you feeling down or just not yourself? Are you overwhelmed or burdened by stress at home, work, or school? Whether you are challenged by life's transitions, relational concerns, grief/loss, anxiety, or depression, I am here to help! Everyone's experience is unique, and I work together with each client to process their current challenges and achieve the changes that they desire. You have it within you to reach your full potential and find the happiness you are seeking. I am EMDR trained and use the modality to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety and depression.
Are you feeling down or just not yourself? Are you overwhelmed or burdened by stress at home, work, or school? Whether you are challenged by life's transitions, relational concerns, grief/loss, anxiety, or depression, I am here to help! Everyone's experience is unique, and I work together with each client to process their current challenges and achieve the changes that they desire. You have it within you to reach your full potential and find the happiness you are seeking. I am EMDR trained and use the modality to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety and depression.
(512) 234-4655 View (512) 234-4655
Photo of W. Trent Schmiedehaus - Trent Schmiedehaus, LCSW-S, SEP, LCSW-S, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trent Schmiedehaus, LCSW-S, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is based first and foremost on offering you a safe, supportive space in which you can feel free to explore, change and heal. By examining your direct experience, we can observe the habitual reactions, limitations, and outdated stories that prevent you from feeling the full richness of life. Engaging your moment to moment experience will allow you to develop a full appreciation of who you are, and move you toward the life you want to live.
My approach is based first and foremost on offering you a safe, supportive space in which you can feel free to explore, change and heal. By examining your direct experience, we can observe the habitual reactions, limitations, and outdated stories that prevent you from feeling the full richness of life. Engaging your moment to moment experience will allow you to develop a full appreciation of who you are, and move you toward the life you want to live.
(512) 271-4876 View (512) 271-4876
Photo of Lashana Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lashana Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
(214) 380-1978 View (214) 380-1978
Photo of Mark Crawford Spacht, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Mark Crawford Spacht
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
Not accepting new clients
I am currently only accepting clients for Anger Management. Addiction is a beast without a heart. It can ruin many areas of our life. If you or a family member struggle with addiction, call me. You don't have to face this alone. There are many paths to recovery and working together we can find one that is right for you. I have been a licensed counselor for over 30 years. I have worked with men, women and adolescents to find sustainable recovery. I know the pain of addiction and I can help those struggling to find solutions. There is life beyond addiction.
I am currently only accepting clients for Anger Management. Addiction is a beast without a heart. It can ruin many areas of our life. If you or a family member struggle with addiction, call me. You don't have to face this alone. There are many paths to recovery and working together we can find one that is right for you. I have been a licensed counselor for over 30 years. I have worked with men, women and adolescents to find sustainable recovery. I know the pain of addiction and I can help those struggling to find solutions. There is life beyond addiction.
(512) 598-6511 View (512) 598-6511
Photo of Cathleen Kimmel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathleen Kimmel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
Hi, my name is Cathleen Kimmel and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience. I work with adults and adolescents in a very collaborative manner to help them find happiness and joy in life. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, bipolar, low self-esteem, relationship issues, pregnancy/postpartum, grief, LGBTQ+ and other life adjustments. I use a person-center approach with a mixture of CBT, DBT, and Emotionally Focused Therapy to help clients meet their treatment goals. I work collaboratively with my clients to ensure that progress is made and that clients are getting what they need from therapy.
Hi, my name is Cathleen Kimmel and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience. I work with adults and adolescents in a very collaborative manner to help them find happiness and joy in life. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, bipolar, low self-esteem, relationship issues, pregnancy/postpartum, grief, LGBTQ+ and other life adjustments. I use a person-center approach with a mixture of CBT, DBT, and Emotionally Focused Therapy to help clients meet their treatment goals. I work collaboratively with my clients to ensure that progress is made and that clients are getting what they need from therapy.
(281) 559-7581 View (281) 559-7581
Photo of Takiesha N Watson - Capturing Thoughts Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Capturing Thoughts Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
Is This You? Do you feel like you're juggling a million things at once, yet struggling to find balance and fulfillment? You're not alone. Are you tired of being unable to identify the triggers behind your emotions, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and helpless? Life can feel like an uphill battle when anxiety takes over, and those intrusive thoughts become an unwelcome, constant companion.
Is This You? Do you feel like you're juggling a million things at once, yet struggling to find balance and fulfillment? You're not alone. Are you tired of being unable to identify the triggers behind your emotions, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and helpless? Life can feel like an uphill battle when anxiety takes over, and those intrusive thoughts become an unwelcome, constant companion.
(512) 890-0096 View (512) 890-0096
Photo of Rachael L Fisher, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael L Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Are you asking what is my purpose? Harmed by your religion?- now you miss the feeling of connection with something bigger, maybe even simply your own spirit. -not who you became in order to please others. I offer day long nature intensive retreats. This gives you an opportunity to dive in deeper in a shorter amount of time with the assistance of Nature. Let's uncover any trauma that has been holding you back and gotten in the way of your freedom. I believe in connecting authentically, with an open heart, and assisting you in accessing your own intuition and inner guidance system.
Are you asking what is my purpose? Harmed by your religion?- now you miss the feeling of connection with something bigger, maybe even simply your own spirit. -not who you became in order to please others. I offer day long nature intensive retreats. This gives you an opportunity to dive in deeper in a shorter amount of time with the assistance of Nature. Let's uncover any trauma that has been holding you back and gotten in the way of your freedom. I believe in connecting authentically, with an open heart, and assisting you in accessing your own intuition and inner guidance system.
(737) 204-3014 View (737) 204-3014
Photo of Bianca Segura, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bianca Segura
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and struggling with relationships? Do intense emotions feel unmanageable? I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals ages 12 and up, including those from diverse backgrounds, to explore and validate their experiences. My approach helps you work towards self-acceptance and receive the emotional support you need. I specialize in helping you manage anxiety, process adverse childhood experiences, navigate relationship issues, and overcome low self-esteem.
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and struggling with relationships? Do intense emotions feel unmanageable? I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals ages 12 and up, including those from diverse backgrounds, to explore and validate their experiences. My approach helps you work towards self-acceptance and receive the emotional support you need. I specialize in helping you manage anxiety, process adverse childhood experiences, navigate relationship issues, and overcome low self-esteem.
(512) 599-9962 View (512) 599-9962
Photo of Joanna Menendez, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Menendez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Hola! If you have been putting in the hard work all your life, expecting to feel fulfilled, stress-free, and just plain happy- but instead find yourself feeling exhausted, silenced, or experiencing self-doubt; know that you are not alone. And hey, if you are nodding along, then you are definitely in the right place. You are here seeking support because you want to change that. No more feeling confused, stuck, or trying to fit into spaces that weren’t exactly made with you in mind. It is time to find your voice, increase your confidence, feel grounded, and own your sense of self and truth.
Welcome! Hola! If you have been putting in the hard work all your life, expecting to feel fulfilled, stress-free, and just plain happy- but instead find yourself feeling exhausted, silenced, or experiencing self-doubt; know that you are not alone. And hey, if you are nodding along, then you are definitely in the right place. You are here seeking support because you want to change that. No more feeling confused, stuck, or trying to fit into spaces that weren’t exactly made with you in mind. It is time to find your voice, increase your confidence, feel grounded, and own your sense of self and truth.
(512) 593-8326 View (512) 593-8326
Photo of Ilicia Balaban, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilicia Balaban
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
We all begin the therapeutic journey with our own set of strengths and needs. Sometimes our uniqueness promotes creativity, new perspectives, and collaboration. Other times our uniqueness can be terminal; leading to emptiness, feeling disconnected from self and others, and beliefs that mental health treatment may work for other people, but it won’t work for you. Therapy is not about “getting over” events and issues; it’s about understanding your triggers and learning how to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so that you can move forward and continue to build a fulfilling life.
We all begin the therapeutic journey with our own set of strengths and needs. Sometimes our uniqueness promotes creativity, new perspectives, and collaboration. Other times our uniqueness can be terminal; leading to emptiness, feeling disconnected from self and others, and beliefs that mental health treatment may work for other people, but it won’t work for you. Therapy is not about “getting over” events and issues; it’s about understanding your triggers and learning how to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so that you can move forward and continue to build a fulfilling life.
(512) 764-0744 View (512) 764-0744
Photo of Audrey Gordon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audrey Gordon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78747  (Online Only)
Audrey Gordon is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate LPC-A, who is being supervised by Christopher Hansen, LPC-S, and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). Audrey is also a military veteran who has a history of working with addiction and dual diagnoses. She specializes in treating adults experiencing alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety, PTSD, and military-related stress and issues. Audrey earned her Master's degree in Addiction Counseling from the Texas Tech University Health Science Center. She is also certified in accelerated art therapy (AAT).
Audrey Gordon is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate LPC-A, who is being supervised by Christopher Hansen, LPC-S, and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). Audrey is also a military veteran who has a history of working with addiction and dual diagnoses. She specializes in treating adults experiencing alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety, PTSD, and military-related stress and issues. Audrey earned her Master's degree in Addiction Counseling from the Texas Tech University Health Science Center. She is also certified in accelerated art therapy (AAT).
(512) 598-6457 View (512) 598-6457
Photo of Michael Braxton, LCSW, LCDC, MHPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Braxton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, MHPS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752
My name is Michael Braxton and for the past 15 years, I've dedicated my career to supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, incarceration, substance use, and grief and loss. I understand that reaching out for help can be a daunting step. My commitment is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. I believe in the power of trauma-informed care. This means I focus on understanding that trauma can leave deep scars, impacting how you see yourself and the world. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulty trusting others. I am here to help.
My name is Michael Braxton and for the past 15 years, I've dedicated my career to supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, incarceration, substance use, and grief and loss. I understand that reaching out for help can be a daunting step. My commitment is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. I believe in the power of trauma-informed care. This means I focus on understanding that trauma can leave deep scars, impacting how you see yourself and the world. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulty trusting others. I am here to help.
(512) 559-8941 View (512) 559-8941
Mary V Cunningham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78756
My practice is divided between therapy & assessment. I enjoy each and feel privileged to be able to do both - they are mutually enriching. My Ph.D. is from UT Austin. I have a B.S. in Biology (Santa Clara Univ.) and an M.P.A. (George Washington Univ.). I founded the National Organization to Treat A-T, which funds treatment research for a rare disease that my son had. My greatest privilege has been to be Mom to my three children.
My practice is divided between therapy & assessment. I enjoy each and feel privileged to be able to do both - they are mutually enriching. My Ph.D. is from UT Austin. I have a B.S. in Biology (Santa Clara Univ.) and an M.P.A. (George Washington Univ.). I founded the National Organization to Treat A-T, which funds treatment research for a rare disease that my son had. My greatest privilege has been to be Mom to my three children.
(512) 559-1547 View (512) 559-1547
Photo of Alexis Wolf, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Wolf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey, my name is Alexis! I have a master's degree in Counseling Psychology and 9 years experience in the field. My experience includes working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, and any unhappiness in life. I have worked with those who are or have been psychiatrically hospitalized, the formerly incarcerated, as well as veterans. I work with individuals as well as couples who are seeking help to navigate life.
Hey, my name is Alexis! I have a master's degree in Counseling Psychology and 9 years experience in the field. My experience includes working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, and any unhappiness in life. I have worked with those who are or have been psychiatrically hospitalized, the formerly incarcerated, as well as veterans. I work with individuals as well as couples who are seeking help to navigate life.
(512) 598-6834 View (512) 598-6834
Photo of Catherine Porter Glass, LCSW-S, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Porter Glass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MDiv
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Collaborative space to explore what you're experiencing - together with evidence-based interventions - offers possibility for dynamic change. I join with clients to move forward from traumatic experiences, better manage anxiety and depression, cope with new medical diagnoses or chronic illness For those who self harm or have suicidal tendencies, I teach coping skills. I support those going through family transitions, such as divorce and single parenting. I work with those experiencing existential, religious, or spiritual questions. Biweekly weekend availability.
Collaborative space to explore what you're experiencing - together with evidence-based interventions - offers possibility for dynamic change. I join with clients to move forward from traumatic experiences, better manage anxiety and depression, cope with new medical diagnoses or chronic illness For those who self harm or have suicidal tendencies, I teach coping skills. I support those going through family transitions, such as divorce and single parenting. I work with those experiencing existential, religious, or spiritual questions. Biweekly weekend availability.
(737) 252-1510 View (737) 252-1510
Photo of Ewa Marcinkiewicz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ewa Marcinkiewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78758  (Online Only)
I believe there is a higher wisdom within us all, and accessing this place of inner authority is essential to the process of healing and aligning with one’s authentic self.  My goal as a counselor is to help you connect with your personal wisdom and unlock your innate ability to heal. My invitation is for you to be curious with me about your experiences as I offer feedback to spark the discovery of your own answers.
I believe there is a higher wisdom within us all, and accessing this place of inner authority is essential to the process of healing and aligning with one’s authentic self.  My goal as a counselor is to help you connect with your personal wisdom and unlock your innate ability to heal. My invitation is for you to be curious with me about your experiences as I offer feedback to spark the discovery of your own answers.
(512) 648-5124 View (512) 648-5124
Photo of Erie Hebert, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erie Hebert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Social workers typically have an interesting life story and personal experiences with tragedy that tug at our heartstrings. I am no different. At times, I wonder "how is it that I have survived these mountains and valleys?" Despite personal tragedy, loss, and despair, influential people have served as beacons of hope throughout the years in my life.
Social workers typically have an interesting life story and personal experiences with tragedy that tug at our heartstrings. I am no different. At times, I wonder "how is it that I have survived these mountains and valleys?" Despite personal tragedy, loss, and despair, influential people have served as beacons of hope throughout the years in my life.
(737) 530-9772 View (737) 530-9772
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Austin, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
64% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Austin, TX see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Austin?

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.