Therapists in Westhampton, MA

Irene H Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westhampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
My years of experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, clinical therapy. I provide supportive space to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in treating people for anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, grief, substance abuse, school phobia, learning disabilities and neurological and cognitive differences. As an adjunct to traditional talk therapy, I am certified in and use the following techniques to enhance treatment as needed: Clinical Hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) and ear acupressure as part of therapy sessions.
My years of experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, clinical therapy. I provide supportive space to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in treating people for anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, grief, substance abuse, school phobia, learning disabilities and neurological and cognitive differences. As an adjunct to traditional talk therapy, I am certified in and use the following techniques to enhance treatment as needed: Clinical Hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) and ear acupressure as part of therapy sessions.
(413) 531-1943 View (413) 531-1943
Photo of Meredith Lagoy - Northeast Center for Youth & Families, LICSW, LMHC
Northeast Center for Youth & Families
LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westhampton, MA 01027
NCYF offers a wide range of clinical options to children, teens, adults, and families. All of our clinical services are informed by evidence-based practices and services are delivered in a way that focuses on compassion and a respect for an individual's past trauma.
NCYF offers a wide range of clinical options to children, teens, adults, and families. All of our clinical services are informed by evidence-based practices and services are delivered in a way that focuses on compassion and a respect for an individual's past trauma.
(413) 624-7070 View (413) 624-7070
Photo of Patricia McGuinness, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia McGuinness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westhampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
For the past 30 years, I have been providing mental health services to adolescents, college students, adults, and families. My approach would be to work collaboratively with you focusing on your strengths and your capacity for resilience.
For the past 30 years, I have been providing mental health services to adolescents, college students, adults, and families. My approach would be to work collaboratively with you focusing on your strengths and your capacity for resilience.
(413) 485-7444 View (413) 485-7444
Photo of Kimberly McGuigan, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Kimberly McGuigan
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Westhampton, MA 01027
Not accepting new clients
Are you ready to take the first step toward change? If so, I am here to guide you through the steps along the way. Therapy is a journey, and with guidance you can traverse the obstacles and winding paths. I aim to provide a space where you can explore yourself, identify your strengths and develop the skills to navigate you through your path for change.
Are you ready to take the first step toward change? If so, I am here to guide you through the steps along the way. Therapy is a journey, and with guidance you can traverse the obstacles and winding paths. I aim to provide a space where you can explore yourself, identify your strengths and develop the skills to navigate you through your path for change.
(413) 287-6688 View (413) 287-6688
Photo of Stacey Alynn Glick - Cape & Islands Cognitive Behavioral Institute, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Cape & Islands Cognitive Behavioral Institute
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westhampton, MA 01027
I believe that we all have the power to change our lives by identifying and connecting with our true values and letting this guide our actions instead of our fears. Clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms can learn how to shift their focus from negative thoughts and behaviors toward a more fulfilling relationship with themselves and others. Utilizing a trauma-informed and mindful approach I help clients develop their own treatment goals and make lasting behavioral and emotional changes.
I believe that we all have the power to change our lives by identifying and connecting with our true values and letting this guide our actions instead of our fears. Clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, and trauma related symptoms can learn how to shift their focus from negative thoughts and behaviors toward a more fulfilling relationship with themselves and others. Utilizing a trauma-informed and mindful approach I help clients develop their own treatment goals and make lasting behavioral and emotional changes.
(508) 388-1597 View (508) 388-1597

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ann G Wilson, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Ann G Wilson
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist with 30 years of experience in helping others move through difficulties. My work is shaped by the knowledge that we all have the capacity to grow and learn though our life experiences. I believe that sometimes our most difficult experiences can bring us our greatest life lessons. I work collaboratively with adults, 18 years and older, to build on strengths, develop new strategies and work to remove or reduce internal obstacles such as negative beliefs.
I am a psychotherapist with 30 years of experience in helping others move through difficulties. My work is shaped by the knowledge that we all have the capacity to grow and learn though our life experiences. I believe that sometimes our most difficult experiences can bring us our greatest life lessons. I work collaboratively with adults, 18 years and older, to build on strengths, develop new strategies and work to remove or reduce internal obstacles such as negative beliefs.
(413) 424-3686 View (413) 424-3686
Photo of Meghan Royal, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Royal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
My primary focuses include; working with young adults, people going through separation/divorce, and people experiencing work fatigue. I work collaboratively with clients, offering outside perspective and insight, while also encouraging self-reflection. I help provide clients with the time, space, and tools to access their own place of wisdom. I take Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Harvard Pilgrim, United, Optum, and private pay clients with a sliding scale (sometimes sessions can still be reimbursed by your insurance out-of-network). I do not take Anthem. Please reach out by email to schedule a phone consult, where we can chat further.
My primary focuses include; working with young adults, people going through separation/divorce, and people experiencing work fatigue. I work collaboratively with clients, offering outside perspective and insight, while also encouraging self-reflection. I help provide clients with the time, space, and tools to access their own place of wisdom. I take Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Harvard Pilgrim, United, Optum, and private pay clients with a sliding scale (sometimes sessions can still be reimbursed by your insurance out-of-network). I do not take Anthem. Please reach out by email to schedule a phone consult, where we can chat further.
(413) 423-0434 View (413) 423-0434
Photo of Laresa Wood, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laresa Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easthampton, MA 01027
Feeling stuck? Stressed? Not feeling like yourself? If you are not sure what to do next, seeking support is an excellent first step. My work as a relational psychodynamic therapist is dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages in their journey toward healing, growth, and connection. Together we can explore and understand the root causes of your struggles, navigate complex emotions, and develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.
Feeling stuck? Stressed? Not feeling like yourself? If you are not sure what to do next, seeking support is an excellent first step. My work as a relational psychodynamic therapist is dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages in their journey toward healing, growth, and connection. Together we can explore and understand the root causes of your struggles, navigate complex emotions, and develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.
(413) 216-6420 View (413) 216-6420
Photo of Judith Wolf, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Wolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on empowering people to connect with their values and strengths and to heal and grow through challenges. You may be suffering with stress in a relationship, school, or work. You may be transitioning through a difficult stage of life, or wrestling with issues of identity. You may feel stuck in old patterns that hold you back while you are yearning to move forward. Drawing on mindfulness-based practice, informed especially by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental and collaborative approach to psychotherapy.
I focus on empowering people to connect with their values and strengths and to heal and grow through challenges. You may be suffering with stress in a relationship, school, or work. You may be transitioning through a difficult stage of life, or wrestling with issues of identity. You may feel stuck in old patterns that hold you back while you are yearning to move forward. Drawing on mindfulness-based practice, informed especially by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental and collaborative approach to psychotherapy.
(413) 429-4885 View (413) 429-4885
Photo of Arielle Jessop-Humpage, LMHC, ATR-P, Counselor
Arielle Jessop-Humpage
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
Life can really be something else, huh? Whatever it is you're navigating, let's talk it out! I work primarily with emerging adults and adults. I strive to act as a guide and supportive presence, creating safety and a foundation for you to begin this therapeutic adventure. If you are interested in exploring all parts of yourself and finding compassion and resilience within yourself I would be honored to embark on that journey with you. I enjoy helping people find their path and gain insight into the power they have within themselves to generate change and self-acceptance.
Life can really be something else, huh? Whatever it is you're navigating, let's talk it out! I work primarily with emerging adults and adults. I strive to act as a guide and supportive presence, creating safety and a foundation for you to begin this therapeutic adventure. If you are interested in exploring all parts of yourself and finding compassion and resilience within yourself I would be honored to embark on that journey with you. I enjoy helping people find their path and gain insight into the power they have within themselves to generate change and self-acceptance.
(413) 779-8718 View (413) 779-8718
Photo of Gail Fries - Gail Fries, LICSW, SEP, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Fries, LICSW, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
(NOTE: I have little to no availability. ) Do you struggle with the effects of a difficult childhood, have an addiction, had a life-changing accident, or experienced an abusive or controlling relationship? If so, you probably don't enjoy life as much as you'd like. Our work will be both a partnership and an exploration, working at your pace. I'm trained as a psychotherapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. I value working collaboratively, at your pace, towards building greater resilience, feeling safer, and resolving areas of difficulty so that you can enjoy yourself, your relationships and your life more.
(NOTE: I have little to no availability. ) Do you struggle with the effects of a difficult childhood, have an addiction, had a life-changing accident, or experienced an abusive or controlling relationship? If so, you probably don't enjoy life as much as you'd like. Our work will be both a partnership and an exploration, working at your pace. I'm trained as a psychotherapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. I value working collaboratively, at your pace, towards building greater resilience, feeling safer, and resolving areas of difficulty so that you can enjoy yourself, your relationships and your life more.
(413) 314-3177 View (413) 314-3177
Photo of Ellen J Carlino - Ellen J Carlino, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen J Carlino, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
There's a delicate balance between accepting oneself as you are and making the changes you deeply desire. Cultivating quiet and stillness allows you to listen to your inner knowing and the answers you are seeking. My own spiritual practice informs me as I honor and support your personal journey. What's most essential for healing is the relationship between client and therapist. Clients have described their experience with me as open, deeply caring, respectful, irreverent, collaborative, both gentle and direct, grounding and real.
There's a delicate balance between accepting oneself as you are and making the changes you deeply desire. Cultivating quiet and stillness allows you to listen to your inner knowing and the answers you are seeking. My own spiritual practice informs me as I honor and support your personal journey. What's most essential for healing is the relationship between client and therapist. Clients have described their experience with me as open, deeply caring, respectful, irreverent, collaborative, both gentle and direct, grounding and real.
(413) 241-6712 View (413) 241-6712
Photo of Peggy O'Neill, PhD, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
Welcome! Seeking a therapist is an important process and not always an easy one. It can take courage to take the first steps to connect with a therapist – even if you have been in therapy before. I see the therapy relationship as a collaborative relationship and one that can serve as a foundation for positive and healthy change in your life. It is important that you find a therapist you believe you can work with in order to tend to your needs and interests.
Welcome! Seeking a therapist is an important process and not always an easy one. It can take courage to take the first steps to connect with a therapist – even if you have been in therapy before. I see the therapy relationship as a collaborative relationship and one that can serve as a foundation for positive and healthy change in your life. It is important that you find a therapist you believe you can work with in order to tend to your needs and interests.
(413) 420-5290 View (413) 420-5290
Photo of Shanna T Fishel, LICSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanna T Fishel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is hard work. Acknowledging the challenges, I embrace the potential for healing and personal growth. At the core of my therapeutic approach, I prioritize honesty and a non-judgmental attitude on the journey toward well-being. My clients often seek support for various challenges, including anxiety, depression, the effects of trauma, and a desire to explore a more fulfilling way of life. Through collaborative therapeutic methods, I maintain a sense of curiosity and unwavering compassion, holding a space to explore hurt parts of self and work towards your version of wellness and wholeness.
Therapy is hard work. Acknowledging the challenges, I embrace the potential for healing and personal growth. At the core of my therapeutic approach, I prioritize honesty and a non-judgmental attitude on the journey toward well-being. My clients often seek support for various challenges, including anxiety, depression, the effects of trauma, and a desire to explore a more fulfilling way of life. Through collaborative therapeutic methods, I maintain a sense of curiosity and unwavering compassion, holding a space to explore hurt parts of self and work towards your version of wellness and wholeness.
(413) 287-9961 View (413) 287-9961
Photo of Jennifer L Griswold - Jennifer L Griswold LICSW Counseling Services, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L Griswold LICSW Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life transitions are inherent in the human experience. Sometimes we are resilient and are able to navigate life’s’ difficulties and other times we need to talk to someone who can truly hear us. I offer individual, family and couples counseling for adults of any age and provide a safe, supportive and empathic setting in which you will feel respected and heard regardless of race, gender identity/expression and sexual orientation.
Life transitions are inherent in the human experience. Sometimes we are resilient and are able to navigate life’s’ difficulties and other times we need to talk to someone who can truly hear us. I offer individual, family and couples counseling for adults of any age and provide a safe, supportive and empathic setting in which you will feel respected and heard regardless of race, gender identity/expression and sexual orientation.
(413) 779-3177 View (413) 779-3177
Photo of M. Sarah Carr, MA, LMHC, Counselor
M. Sarah Carr
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
I am a somatic psychotherapist specializing in body-based healing. I enjoy working with clients who want to step out of disempowering narratives and embrace their own capacity. I have 20+ years of experience working with many populations and conditions. Recently I have specialized in couples therapy using the Developmental Model and Attachment work. I only work with a limited number of couples at this time, but these approaches deeply inform my work, even with individuals. I have recently narrowed my practice to focus on clients in acute need or looking to do more focused chapters of work or growth vs ongoing maintenance therapy.
I am a somatic psychotherapist specializing in body-based healing. I enjoy working with clients who want to step out of disempowering narratives and embrace their own capacity. I have 20+ years of experience working with many populations and conditions. Recently I have specialized in couples therapy using the Developmental Model and Attachment work. I only work with a limited number of couples at this time, but these approaches deeply inform my work, even with individuals. I have recently narrowed my practice to focus on clients in acute need or looking to do more focused chapters of work or growth vs ongoing maintenance therapy.
(413) 863-6681 View (413) 863-6681
Photo of Scot Coar, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scot Coar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easthampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
My 14+ years working in a therapeutic milieu as well as my time in private practice working with individuals, couples and families has contributed to developing an approach that seeks to help clients better navigate their systems (Families, Schools, Jobs, Relationships, Peer groups, etc.) as well as the issues they might be struggling with individually. Incorporating cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, narrative and mindfulness based techniques, I strive to help the people I work with develop coping skills, improve self esteem/assertiveness, reduce anxiety/depression, cope with loss and trauma as well as improve relationships and overall sense of well being.
My 14+ years working in a therapeutic milieu as well as my time in private practice working with individuals, couples and families has contributed to developing an approach that seeks to help clients better navigate their systems (Families, Schools, Jobs, Relationships, Peer groups, etc.) as well as the issues they might be struggling with individually. Incorporating cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, narrative and mindfulness based techniques, I strive to help the people I work with develop coping skills, improve self esteem/assertiveness, reduce anxiety/depression, cope with loss and trauma as well as improve relationships and overall sense of well being.
(413) 340-0528 View (413) 340-0528
Photo of Mowie Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mowie Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easthampton, MA 01027
Waitlist for new clients
I support folks in reconnecting with what our bodies have to tell us about our hurts and healing. I am a somatic and Gestalt-trained therapist, meaning that I have particular experience leading folks in reconnecting to their bodies, + working with their nervous systems to access new possibilities for healing. I often work with individuals navigating anxiety, relational difficulties, obsessive compulsive patternings, chronic illness, and grief + loss. I especially enjoy working with folks who have a mindfulness/meditation practice, are curious about embodiment, and interested in cultivating deeper intimacy with themselves and others.
I support folks in reconnecting with what our bodies have to tell us about our hurts and healing. I am a somatic and Gestalt-trained therapist, meaning that I have particular experience leading folks in reconnecting to their bodies, + working with their nervous systems to access new possibilities for healing. I often work with individuals navigating anxiety, relational difficulties, obsessive compulsive patternings, chronic illness, and grief + loss. I especially enjoy working with folks who have a mindfulness/meditation practice, are curious about embodiment, and interested in cultivating deeper intimacy with themselves and others.
(413) 259-0531 View (413) 259-0531
Photo of Sarah Towers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Towers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
We all have a story to tell and we are all driven to make meaning of our lives. Much of our suffering—those times of depression, anxiety, and discontent—arises when the weight of the past and the pressures of the present become overwhelming and we lose our sense of being the author of our own story. I have found that when we are allowed to speak in a compassionate space, to be heard, and to welcome our true selves—even the parts of ourselves that we struggle with—we uncover strengths we didn't know we had. We discover possibilities for change and new relationships, and freedom from old and limiting beliefs. We regain our storyline.
We all have a story to tell and we are all driven to make meaning of our lives. Much of our suffering—those times of depression, anxiety, and discontent—arises when the weight of the past and the pressures of the present become overwhelming and we lose our sense of being the author of our own story. I have found that when we are allowed to speak in a compassionate space, to be heard, and to welcome our true selves—even the parts of ourselves that we struggle with—we uncover strengths we didn't know we had. We discover possibilities for change and new relationships, and freedom from old and limiting beliefs. We regain our storyline.
(413) 420-5278 View (413) 420-5278
Photo of Amanda Sposato, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Sposato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
Not accepting new clients
I believe that every person makes sense in context. You might wonder why you often feel anxious, unfulfilled, or discontent. You might be curious about the patterns in your relationships or your reactions to others or events. You may wish to explore the ways you feel simultaneously connected and disconnected from yourself or the world. I'd love to work with you to help cultivate a curious stance to better understand yourself in the fuller context of your life. We will work together to expand your feelings of aliveness and acceptance while also helping you to more flexibly express needs, manage emotions, and deepen relationships.
I believe that every person makes sense in context. You might wonder why you often feel anxious, unfulfilled, or discontent. You might be curious about the patterns in your relationships or your reactions to others or events. You may wish to explore the ways you feel simultaneously connected and disconnected from yourself or the world. I'd love to work with you to help cultivate a curious stance to better understand yourself in the fuller context of your life. We will work together to expand your feelings of aliveness and acceptance while also helping you to more flexibly express needs, manage emotions, and deepen relationships.
(413) 588-7108 View (413) 588-7108

See more therapy options for Westhampton

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westhampton, MA

< 10

Therapists in Westhampton, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Coping Skills
100% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
80% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

34 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
75% Harvard Pilgrim

How Therapists in Westhampton, MA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westhampton?

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.