Therapists in Surprise, AZ

Photo of Wendy J Pauluk, PsyD, Psychologist
Wendy J Pauluk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379  (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, & coping w/ situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of Psychological credential in Psychology & Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, & coping w/ situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of Psychological credential in Psychology & Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
(928) 267-6122 View (928) 267-6122
Photo of Mears Amundson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mears Amundson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to let go of past hurts? Resolve fears? Restore relationships? Rediscover joy and have more energy? Whether you are facing something unexpected, feeling emotionally overwhelmed, or trying to make sense of your past, seeking help can be the first step in committing to healing. Everyone has unique strengths that can be used to overcome difficult situations leading to greater happiness and healthier relationships. With the right support, you can begin to improve your life one day at a time and feel more like yourself again.
Are you ready to let go of past hurts? Resolve fears? Restore relationships? Rediscover joy and have more energy? Whether you are facing something unexpected, feeling emotionally overwhelmed, or trying to make sense of your past, seeking help can be the first step in committing to healing. Everyone has unique strengths that can be used to overcome difficult situations leading to greater happiness and healthier relationships. With the right support, you can begin to improve your life one day at a time and feel more like yourself again.
(602) 428-9435 View (602) 428-9435
Photo of Sarah Schultz, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
Do you need professional feedback and guidance with a variety of stressors, life changes, or behavioral health needs? Do you need to learn skills to manage a variety of mental health symptoms? Do you need someone to talk to or receive therapeutic support from? Have you experienced a trauma, a loss, or a dysfunction of any kind that impacted you? Life is full of stressors and transitional moments based on the complexity of everyday life. I provide assistance to those who are on a therapeutic journey to achieve optimal mental health, physical, or even spiritual wellness.
Do you need professional feedback and guidance with a variety of stressors, life changes, or behavioral health needs? Do you need to learn skills to manage a variety of mental health symptoms? Do you need someone to talk to or receive therapeutic support from? Have you experienced a trauma, a loss, or a dysfunction of any kind that impacted you? Life is full of stressors and transitional moments based on the complexity of everyday life. I provide assistance to those who are on a therapeutic journey to achieve optimal mental health, physical, or even spiritual wellness.
(928) 662-0453 View (928) 662-0453
Photo of Joanna Cohen, MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85379  (Online Only)
We all have an innate need to be heard, be seen, be validated. This can feel impossible when we are surrounded by people, places, cultural norms, or systems that limit our voices. I provide a safe space for you to figure out who you are, what your meaning is, what your why has always been. Ready to discover your authentic self? Let's start doing the work!
We all have an innate need to be heard, be seen, be validated. This can feel impossible when we are surrounded by people, places, cultural norms, or systems that limit our voices. I provide a safe space for you to figure out who you are, what your meaning is, what your why has always been. Ready to discover your authentic self? Let's start doing the work!
(623) 624-9745 View (623) 624-9745
Photo of Donald Hupp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donald Hupp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
My experience has been treating people who suffer from: Anxiety Depression Mood Disorders Thoughts Disorders Chemical Dependency Issues Sexual Addictions In addition to the above, I have vast experience working with people who have: Basic life issues Marital problems Family stress Job stress Low self-esteem Sexual problems Social anxiety Sexuality identification. I want you to feel as if you are having a conversation with me. It is important for me to feel that you can comfortably open up to me so we can work together to solve whatever issue or need that you would like to work on.
My experience has been treating people who suffer from: Anxiety Depression Mood Disorders Thoughts Disorders Chemical Dependency Issues Sexual Addictions In addition to the above, I have vast experience working with people who have: Basic life issues Marital problems Family stress Job stress Low self-esteem Sexual problems Social anxiety Sexuality identification. I want you to feel as if you are having a conversation with me. It is important for me to feel that you can comfortably open up to me so we can work together to solve whatever issue or need that you would like to work on.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Philip Wade Stanfield - Insideout Wellness Center LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Insideout Wellness Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85378  (Online Only)
Healing takes place from the inside out. All of us have the ability and strength to move into our trauma, process past memories and heal negative self-beliefs that cause us pain. With a focus on developing a strong therapeutic relationship and applying research-based therapy techniques, I look forward to helping you through the healing process.
Healing takes place from the inside out. All of us have the ability and strength to move into our trauma, process past memories and heal negative self-beliefs that cause us pain. With a focus on developing a strong therapeutic relationship and applying research-based therapy techniques, I look forward to helping you through the healing process.
(623) 294-1223 View (623) 294-1223
Photo of Bonnie A DenDooven, EMDR, CBT, ISTDP, LPC, Brief, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie A DenDooven
Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR, CBT, ISTDP, LPC, Brief
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
I'm passionate about helping people heal. I'll meet you where you are in pain, SEVERE DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, life struggles. My approach is SHORT-TERM with ISTDP -- "Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy" -- based on empathy, genuineness, and it works QUICKLY to facilitate permanent change -- sometimes in a single session. Dramatic change in less than 5 sessions. Compassion and Empathy for you. Let's try something different to make a change in life. . . . . . . . . . . . “The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.” —William James.
I'm passionate about helping people heal. I'll meet you where you are in pain, SEVERE DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, life struggles. My approach is SHORT-TERM with ISTDP -- "Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy" -- based on empathy, genuineness, and it works QUICKLY to facilitate permanent change -- sometimes in a single session. Dramatic change in less than 5 sessions. Compassion and Empathy for you. Let's try something different to make a change in life. . . . . . . . . . . . “The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.” —William James.
(623) 552-3868 View (623) 552-3868
Photo of Jackie Henretig, Psychologist
Jackie Henretig
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
Life can be extremely difficult to navigate at times, especially when going through major life transitions. Therapy can be a time that you get to focus completely on you and reflect on what is getting in the way of you living your best life. I can help by giving you the tools and skills that help manage life challenges. I graduated from California Lutheran University with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology. I am licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in California and Arizona.
Life can be extremely difficult to navigate at times, especially when going through major life transitions. Therapy can be a time that you get to focus completely on you and reflect on what is getting in the way of you living your best life. I can help by giving you the tools and skills that help manage life challenges. I graduated from California Lutheran University with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology. I am licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in California and Arizona.
(928) 599-4356 View (928) 599-4356
Photo of Jayme Scarfo, LPC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jayme Scarfo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85387  (Online Only)
As a counselor, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you are not just seen and heard, but also actively involved in your healing and positive change. Therapy is a collaborative journey that acknowledges your experiences and helps you move forward with hope and optimism. Together, we will identify and overcome any obstacles you may be facing, empowering you to take control of your own happiness. The clients I work with often face challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and eating disorders.
As a counselor, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you are not just seen and heard, but also actively involved in your healing and positive change. Therapy is a collaborative journey that acknowledges your experiences and helps you move forward with hope and optimism. Together, we will identify and overcome any obstacles you may be facing, empowering you to take control of your own happiness. The clients I work with often face challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and eating disorders.
(623) 471-5028 View (623) 471-5028
Photo of Christina Van Arsdale - Wolfpack Counseling, LLC, CCFC, NCC, LAC
Wolfpack Counseling, LLC
CCFC, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
(623) 526-8510 View (623) 526-8510
Photo of Jessica Kaffer, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Jessica Kaffer
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
Virtual appointments only- I am dedicated to providing the best quality of care by assessing each client's individual needs and assisting them in developing the skills necessary to get back to a more enjoyable and fulfilling place in life. I am able to provide teletherapy services to the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia (D.C.), Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia
Virtual appointments only- I am dedicated to providing the best quality of care by assessing each client's individual needs and assisting them in developing the skills necessary to get back to a more enjoyable and fulfilling place in life. I am able to provide teletherapy services to the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia (D.C.), Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia
(623) 303-9858 View (623) 303-9858
Photo of Tasha Moran, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tasha Moran
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85388  (Online Only)
If you feel overwhelmed, stressed out, hopeless, and full of worry, I am here to help you work through it! My goal is to help you reframe your stressors to help you identify more effective coping skills.
If you feel overwhelmed, stressed out, hopeless, and full of worry, I am here to help you work through it! My goal is to help you reframe your stressors to help you identify more effective coping skills.
(623) 887-7394 View (623) 887-7394
Photo of Ashleigh Lange, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashleigh Lange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85379  (Online Only)
Ashleigh Lange, MSW, LCSW, devoted clinician with over 15 years of wide-ranging experience in the field of Social Work. Skilled in working with Geriatric, Adult and Adolescent populations. My background includes Crisis Intervention; Trauma informed care; Individual, Family and Group Therapies in Behavioral Health, Child Welfare, and in Educational settings.
Ashleigh Lange, MSW, LCSW, devoted clinician with over 15 years of wide-ranging experience in the field of Social Work. Skilled in working with Geriatric, Adult and Adolescent populations. My background includes Crisis Intervention; Trauma informed care; Individual, Family and Group Therapies in Behavioral Health, Child Welfare, and in Educational settings.
(623) 304-3845 View (623) 304-3845
Photo of Cassidy Gallimore, LPC, CFRC, CMCC, Counselor
Cassidy Gallimore
Counselor, LPC, CFRC, CMCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374
Not accepting new clients
Are you a First Responder, Veteran, or medical professional constantly witnessing human suffering, risking your life for others, have an intense work-load, make life or death decisions regularly, have severe anxiety, constant stress, depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, have suicidal or unwanted thoughts, relational issues, fail to communicate effectively or appropriately? Are you a family member to one of these mentioned professions? These are few of many things I can help reduce the symptoms of that may be controlling your life and keeping you from living happily and fulfilled. Let’s find growth in your storm!
Are you a First Responder, Veteran, or medical professional constantly witnessing human suffering, risking your life for others, have an intense work-load, make life or death decisions regularly, have severe anxiety, constant stress, depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, have suicidal or unwanted thoughts, relational issues, fail to communicate effectively or appropriately? Are you a family member to one of these mentioned professions? These are few of many things I can help reduce the symptoms of that may be controlling your life and keeping you from living happily and fulfilled. Let’s find growth in your storm!
(623) 263-5427 View (623) 263-5427
Photo of Shelley Wolfe, Psychologist
Shelley Wolfe
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
Hello, I have over 30 years of experience in a wide range of settings, populations, and age groups. I enjoy working with issues such as LGBTQIA+ issues including gender identity and the coming out process, mood disorders, and health and wellness. I have a broad range of experience. I’ve worked with individuals across the life span from toddlers through geriatric patients in many different settings. At this time I am working with adults age 18 and older, primarily in individual therapy. My approach is Person Centered along with motivational interviewing and at times techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy or mindfulness therapy
Hello, I have over 30 years of experience in a wide range of settings, populations, and age groups. I enjoy working with issues such as LGBTQIA+ issues including gender identity and the coming out process, mood disorders, and health and wellness. I have a broad range of experience. I’ve worked with individuals across the life span from toddlers through geriatric patients in many different settings. At this time I am working with adults age 18 and older, primarily in individual therapy. My approach is Person Centered along with motivational interviewing and at times techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy or mindfulness therapy
(623) 462-1599 View (623) 462-1599
Photo of April E Lain, MEd, LISAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
April E Lain
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LISAC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
Not accepting new clients
There are times when life's challenges become overwhelming and it is hard to cope. This is when we need extra support, someone to talk to, sort things out and learn positive ways of coping. I offer a safe and supportive environment in which to identify and process your needs and move towards resolution. My approach to counseling is client centered, meaning I will meet you where you are and together we will move forward. You are not alone, I am here to help.
There are times when life's challenges become overwhelming and it is hard to cope. This is when we need extra support, someone to talk to, sort things out and learn positive ways of coping. I offer a safe and supportive environment in which to identify and process your needs and move towards resolution. My approach to counseling is client centered, meaning I will meet you where you are and together we will move forward. You are not alone, I am here to help.
(623) 432-0668 View (623) 432-0668
Photo of Victoria Weaver, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374
New clients, please email for availability. Hello, and welcome to Pathfinder Counseling. My name is Victoria and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to provide you with a safe space and resources to help you understand yourself and create the life you want. I work with adults and specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression and PTSD.
New clients, please email for availability. Hello, and welcome to Pathfinder Counseling. My name is Victoria and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to provide you with a safe space and resources to help you understand yourself and create the life you want. I work with adults and specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression and PTSD.
(623) 469-7362 View (623) 469-7362
Photo of Karen L Atkinson, LMFT, LPC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen L Atkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that people are the experts of their own lives. Sometimes, past events or current situations cause upheaval and individuals begin to live according to unhelpful narratives which begin to define who they are or believe they should be. Living according to these unhelpful narratives becomes restrictive and uncomfortable, much like wearing shoes that are three sizes too small.
I believe that people are the experts of their own lives. Sometimes, past events or current situations cause upheaval and individuals begin to live according to unhelpful narratives which begin to define who they are or believe they should be. Living according to these unhelpful narratives becomes restrictive and uncomfortable, much like wearing shoes that are three sizes too small.
(623) 224-2489 View (623) 224-2489
Photo of Matthew Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
I am a Masters of Social Work graduate of Arizona State University (2009) with 14 years of experience in the mental health field. I am an Air Force Veteran, the son of a Vietnam Veteran, and have worked as a Social Worker for the Department of Veteran Affairs for the great majority of my professional career. I have approximately 10 years experience working with adolescents with emotional and behavioral issues. I have experience helping clients to address depression and anxiety through Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I have specialized extensive experience in the treatment of substance use disor
I am a Masters of Social Work graduate of Arizona State University (2009) with 14 years of experience in the mental health field. I am an Air Force Veteran, the son of a Vietnam Veteran, and have worked as a Social Worker for the Department of Veteran Affairs for the great majority of my professional career. I have approximately 10 years experience working with adolescents with emotional and behavioral issues. I have experience helping clients to address depression and anxiety through Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I have specialized extensive experience in the treatment of substance use disor
(928) 770-8391 View (928) 770-8391
Photo of Elizabeth Crowley, LAC, CCTP, Counselor
Elizabeth Crowley
Counselor, LAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374
Being vulnerable, sharing trauma, facing fears, and experiencing change can feel overwhelming and isolating. However, I believe that with the right person by your side, growth and change are possible for everyone. Making it important to meet each individual where they are and build a strong foundation from there. Requiring sessions tailored to individual needs through collaborative efforts. And providing you with coping skills to manage your daily stressors. With varied experiences, I have a personal familiarity with (but not limited to) foster care and adoption, first responders (police, fire, EMS), and the field of education.
Being vulnerable, sharing trauma, facing fears, and experiencing change can feel overwhelming and isolating. However, I believe that with the right person by your side, growth and change are possible for everyone. Making it important to meet each individual where they are and build a strong foundation from there. Requiring sessions tailored to individual needs through collaborative efforts. And providing you with coping skills to manage your daily stressors. With varied experiences, I have a personal familiarity with (but not limited to) foster care and adoption, first responders (police, fire, EMS), and the field of education.
(623) 343-6055 View (623) 343-6055
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Surprise, AZ

200+

Average cost per session

$132

Therapists in Surprise, AZ who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
89% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
73% Stress
68% Relationship Issues
65% Self Esteem
62% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Surprise, AZ see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Surprise?

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.