Therapists in Urbana, MD

Photo of Renee Hoeckel, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Hoeckel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
We have all struggled with something in our lives, and all too often we are kept busy by the stressors and demands of everyday life. Therapy can be a space to take pause and work to understand our individual challenges. As a psychodynamically trained therapist, I can help you explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences to gain insight into "stuck points" that you may be facing.
We have all struggled with something in our lives, and all too often we are kept busy by the stressors and demands of everyday life. Therapy can be a space to take pause and work to understand our individual challenges. As a psychodynamically trained therapist, I can help you explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences to gain insight into "stuck points" that you may be facing.
(410) 627-4013 View (410) 627-4013
Photo of Lisa Hausman Davison, LCPC, NCC, MS, MBA, Counselor
Lisa Hausman Davison
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704
It can be frustrating and scary when you are struggling and don't know where to find the support you need. You may feel that you have tried everything and you are concerned that things may get worse. It can be difficult to ask for help. Feeling vulnerable is never easy but leads to greater personal connection and overall joy. My style is collaborative and goal oriented. I strive to provide my clients greater self-awareness through insight. Through the therapeutic process, change is possible.
It can be frustrating and scary when you are struggling and don't know where to find the support you need. You may feel that you have tried everything and you are concerned that things may get worse. It can be difficult to ask for help. Feeling vulnerable is never easy but leads to greater personal connection and overall joy. My style is collaborative and goal oriented. I strive to provide my clients greater self-awareness through insight. Through the therapeutic process, change is possible.
(240) 839-6889 View (240) 839-6889
Photo of Donna Troisi - Donna Troisi, LCSW-C, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Troisi, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704
I bring a knowledge of family systems thinking to consultations to broaden your understanding of the challenges experienced in your social, emotional, and physical functioning, as they are opportunities to evolve and increase our Best Self. One aspect of my role is to challenge automatic thinking and perceptions to promote better thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making by developing: a broader way of thinking about and solving relationship problems, ways of managing Self in anxious situations, principles that can guide you in your actions.
I bring a knowledge of family systems thinking to consultations to broaden your understanding of the challenges experienced in your social, emotional, and physical functioning, as they are opportunities to evolve and increase our Best Self. One aspect of my role is to challenge automatic thinking and perceptions to promote better thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making by developing: a broader way of thinking about and solving relationship problems, ways of managing Self in anxious situations, principles that can guide you in your actions.
(240) 560-5762 View (240) 560-5762
Photo of Kimberly DiGiorgio, PhD, Psychologist
Kimberly DiGiorgio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Individual therapy is a way for people to explore their thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental and healing therapeutic setting. You may aspire toward growth and development, may seek to learn ways to cope with ongoing stressors, or may be searching for ways to achieve mind-body connectedness. I consider myself to be eclectic in my approach to psychotherapy, and will often use components from different treatment modalities based on your needs. My goal is to help you feel a sense of empowerment over your psychological well-being.
Individual therapy is a way for people to explore their thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental and healing therapeutic setting. You may aspire toward growth and development, may seek to learn ways to cope with ongoing stressors, or may be searching for ways to achieve mind-body connectedness. I consider myself to be eclectic in my approach to psychotherapy, and will often use components from different treatment modalities based on your needs. My goal is to help you feel a sense of empowerment over your psychological well-being.
(240) 594-9836 x102 View (240) 594-9836 x102
Photo of Anna K Soisson, LCPC, CSC-AD
Anna K Soisson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSC-AD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
I am a licensed professional counselor and certified addictions counselor and have worked with adults and adolescents since 1997. My current and former experience has taken place in various locations including high schools, colleges, outpatient substance abuse rehabilitation, and both group and individual private practices. Whether you are working through a tough situation or wish to explore patterns that create difficulties, we will collaborate using curiosity and compassion to gain a better understanding of your story and your strengths.
I am a licensed professional counselor and certified addictions counselor and have worked with adults and adolescents since 1997. My current and former experience has taken place in various locations including high schools, colleges, outpatient substance abuse rehabilitation, and both group and individual private practices. Whether you are working through a tough situation or wish to explore patterns that create difficulties, we will collaborate using curiosity and compassion to gain a better understanding of your story and your strengths.
(301) 679-7815 View (301) 679-7815
Mark Springston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704
Now accepting Medicare and BC/BS. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over twenty years of psychotherapy experience treating adults, children, and adolescents with all types of mental health problems, including severe conditions and co-occurring disorders. If you or your child are suffering from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, problems in relationships----I have a lot of experience helping these get better. I have expertise in the treatment of substance abuse/addictions, adolescents, domestic violence and anger management, and health psychology. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and trained in EMDR.
Now accepting Medicare and BC/BS. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over twenty years of psychotherapy experience treating adults, children, and adolescents with all types of mental health problems, including severe conditions and co-occurring disorders. If you or your child are suffering from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, problems in relationships----I have a lot of experience helping these get better. I have expertise in the treatment of substance abuse/addictions, adolescents, domestic violence and anger management, and health psychology. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and trained in EMDR.
(301) 850-6736 View (301) 850-6736
Photo of Kara Smith, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kara Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704
Availability is between 9-3 on weekdays. At this time, I am only taking clients facing infidelity in their relationship. I am a solution-focused therapist who offers a safe space for clients to examine maladaptive patterns, understand why they evolved, and find solutions so they can be more fulfilled in life and in their relationships. The therapeutic process can be challenging - but I will support you through the hard work because with effort comes growth and clarity. I specialize in:
Availability is between 9-3 on weekdays. At this time, I am only taking clients facing infidelity in their relationship. I am a solution-focused therapist who offers a safe space for clients to examine maladaptive patterns, understand why they evolved, and find solutions so they can be more fulfilled in life and in their relationships. The therapeutic process can be challenging - but I will support you through the hard work because with effort comes growth and clarity. I specialize in:
(301) 658-2006 View (301) 658-2006
Photo of Tami Koepp, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tami Koepp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
Not accepting new clients
Do You Need Help Making Peace With Your Past and Letting Go? Are you anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed on the inside, yet work hard to remain competent and in control on the outside? I specialize in helping people recover/discover a calm, secure experience of life. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional or physical pain; whether you've had trauma in your past, or experienced a recent loss, break-up, illness or accident - I will help you understand what is happening, resolve disturbing feelings, and apply new skills and solutions.
Do You Need Help Making Peace With Your Past and Letting Go? Are you anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed on the inside, yet work hard to remain competent and in control on the outside? I specialize in helping people recover/discover a calm, secure experience of life. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional or physical pain; whether you've had trauma in your past, or experienced a recent loss, break-up, illness or accident - I will help you understand what is happening, resolve disturbing feelings, and apply new skills and solutions.
(301) 514-4745 View (301) 514-4745
Photo of Jen Sherwin, LCPC
Jen Sherwin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
I have over twenty years of experience specializing in the mental health treatment of adults and adolescents. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, life transitions, infertility, pregnancy loss, postpartum depression, divorce and self-esteem issues. I have worked in numerous settings including outpatient clinics, hospitals, schools and rehab programs.
I have over twenty years of experience specializing in the mental health treatment of adults and adolescents. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, life transitions, infertility, pregnancy loss, postpartum depression, divorce and self-esteem issues. I have worked in numerous settings including outpatient clinics, hospitals, schools and rehab programs.
(321) 248-3910 View (321) 248-3910
Photo of Katie Marsh Lyburn, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Marsh Lyburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
You can be happy and healthy! I believe there is power and potential in all of us for healing and growth. Therapy can be hard work and it can also be a shelter in the storm. Together we will work through old patterns, shame, trauma, fear, insecurities, etc.. Through deepening self-awareness, compassion and acceptance, you will be able to take better care of yourself and others, set heathy boundaries, and have deeper relationships. We will work to accept and let go of what holds you back so you can live more authentically and make the most of this life. Your story has indeed shaped you but you get to decide how the rest of it goes.
You can be happy and healthy! I believe there is power and potential in all of us for healing and growth. Therapy can be hard work and it can also be a shelter in the storm. Together we will work through old patterns, shame, trauma, fear, insecurities, etc.. Through deepening self-awareness, compassion and acceptance, you will be able to take better care of yourself and others, set heathy boundaries, and have deeper relationships. We will work to accept and let go of what holds you back so you can live more authentically and make the most of this life. Your story has indeed shaped you but you get to decide how the rest of it goes.
(240) 818-8090 View (240) 818-8090
Photo of Elise G Abromson, PsyD, Psychologist
Elise G Abromson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
My ability to easily relate with and connect to children and teens provides them with a comfortable space in which they can express themselves. Working with individuals and families is my passion. I believe that each child is an individual with individual needs; therefore, each treatment plan is customized to meet the unique needs of your child and family. My goal is to help children and families learn the skills necessary to have healthy, happy lives.
My ability to easily relate with and connect to children and teens provides them with a comfortable space in which they can express themselves. Working with individuals and families is my passion. I believe that each child is an individual with individual needs; therefore, each treatment plan is customized to meet the unique needs of your child and family. My goal is to help children and families learn the skills necessary to have healthy, happy lives.
(301) 712-9015 x1018 View (301) 712-9015 x1018
Photo of Lynn Bevilacqua, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Bevilacqua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
I have a warm, down to earth logical approach to helping clients meet their goals. I strongly believe in learning a client's perspective for issues brought to therapy. I use cognitive and behavioral modalities with a sense of humor, combined with a strong intuition to assist client's meet their treatment goals and improve their quality of life.
I have a warm, down to earth logical approach to helping clients meet their goals. I strongly believe in learning a client's perspective for issues brought to therapy. I use cognitive and behavioral modalities with a sense of humor, combined with a strong intuition to assist client's meet their treatment goals and improve their quality of life.
(301) 691-4955 View (301) 691-4955
Photo of Pamela Richardson Shepp, MS, LCPC, NCC
Pamela Richardson Shepp
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
Not accepting new clients
By the time you make the call for counseling, Life has taken a toll in some serious regard. Brokenness has come upon you in relationship, in spirit, in feeling overwhelmed by challenges. In a serendipitous manner, we come together, as you seek healing and I, as your counselor, strive to be a help and an encourager into a new and brighter day. It is a deep honor and privilege for me to embrace the broken soul and to be trusted to join in the journey from being lost, stuck, or in pain into the possibility of wellness and joy.
By the time you make the call for counseling, Life has taken a toll in some serious regard. Brokenness has come upon you in relationship, in spirit, in feeling overwhelmed by challenges. In a serendipitous manner, we come together, as you seek healing and I, as your counselor, strive to be a help and an encourager into a new and brighter day. It is a deep honor and privilege for me to embrace the broken soul and to be trusted to join in the journey from being lost, stuck, or in pain into the possibility of wellness and joy.
(301) 620-8700 x112 View (301) 620-8700 x112
Photo of Lori Ochs - Frederick Christian Counseling, MSW, LCSW-C, BCPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frederick Christian Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704
As Board Certified Professional Christian Counselors (BCPCC), we offer care that is distinctively Christian & clinically excellent. We have been extensively evaluated by the AACC & NACC in areas of personal integrity, Biblical principles, personal spiritual journey & walk with Jesus Christ, beliefs about the Bible, & clinical skills. We believe in bringing problems in to the light & applying biblical truth. We are encouragers: lending hope to the hopeless, prescribing interventions, teaching healthy coping skills, & challenging old ways of thinking. We believe therapy is the method, but that ONLY Jesus is the healer.
As Board Certified Professional Christian Counselors (BCPCC), we offer care that is distinctively Christian & clinically excellent. We have been extensively evaluated by the AACC & NACC in areas of personal integrity, Biblical principles, personal spiritual journey & walk with Jesus Christ, beliefs about the Bible, & clinical skills. We believe in bringing problems in to the light & applying biblical truth. We are encouragers: lending hope to the hopeless, prescribing interventions, teaching healthy coping skills, & challenging old ways of thinking. We believe therapy is the method, but that ONLY Jesus is the healer.
(301) 945-8284 View (301) 945-8284
Photo of Leslee Bry - Mindful Marriage and Family Therapy, LLC, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mindful Marriage and Family Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
At Mindful Marriage and Family Therapy we believe that meaningful, healthy relationships and systems are the foundation of a fulfilling life. Whether you’re an adult seeking personal growth, have a teen longing to be heard and understood, a couple navigating the complexities of partnership, or a family striving for harmony, we are here to guide you every step of the way. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the holistic dynamics that shape connection, our dedicated team of experts are committed to helping you build the relationships you seek with yourself and your community.
At Mindful Marriage and Family Therapy we believe that meaningful, healthy relationships and systems are the foundation of a fulfilling life. Whether you’re an adult seeking personal growth, have a teen longing to be heard and understood, a couple navigating the complexities of partnership, or a family striving for harmony, we are here to guide you every step of the way. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the holistic dynamics that shape connection, our dedicated team of experts are committed to helping you build the relationships you seek with yourself and your community.
(301) 485-5256 View (301) 485-5256
Photo of Carol Mettus - Carol Mettus LLC, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Mettus LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck suffering with anxiety and depression ?Are you dealing with a relationship, work/college issue, or going through a life change such as a divorce, recent move, or loss? Are negative feelings stopping you from living the life you want to live? If so, you are not alone in this. It is possible to change your life. I will help you to heal yourself and learn the skills to change. Change is possible and there is always Hope.
Do you feel stuck suffering with anxiety and depression ?Are you dealing with a relationship, work/college issue, or going through a life change such as a divorce, recent move, or loss? Are negative feelings stopping you from living the life you want to live? If so, you are not alone in this. It is possible to change your life. I will help you to heal yourself and learn the skills to change. Change is possible and there is always Hope.
(240) 823-5198 View (240) 823-5198
Photo of Pam McDonald, LCSW-C, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
Not accepting new clients
Is life nudging you to change? Sometimes an unexpected loss, trauma, health issue, or job or relationship change upends your life and leaves you wondering, "what's next?" Or maybe you are ready to grow out of unhealthy emotional or behavioral habits that are keeping you from your true potential. Dealing with change can be scary, disorienting, emotionally and physically draining. Who do you turn to? Have you tried to move forward on your own, but got stuck in the same old patterns? I have the skills to compassionately assist you to awaken and live your best life.
Is life nudging you to change? Sometimes an unexpected loss, trauma, health issue, or job or relationship change upends your life and leaves you wondering, "what's next?" Or maybe you are ready to grow out of unhealthy emotional or behavioral habits that are keeping you from your true potential. Dealing with change can be scary, disorienting, emotionally and physically draining. Who do you turn to? Have you tried to move forward on your own, but got stuck in the same old patterns? I have the skills to compassionately assist you to awaken and live your best life.
(301) 321-7755 View (301) 321-7755
Photo of Jess Albright, NCC, LCPC, ACS
Jess Albright
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
Being human can be so freaking heavy and hard! I’m Jess, and I’m what I like to call mama-thentic. I’m a mama, and I’m authentic! I invite you to come as you are and allow me to walk alongside you on your journey of self-discovery. I will listen, guide, and support as you work towards peace, change, and growth. The greatest gift you can give yourself (and your children) is the most healed version of yourself. Allow me to help so that your past no longer controls your present.
Being human can be so freaking heavy and hard! I’m Jess, and I’m what I like to call mama-thentic. I’m a mama, and I’m authentic! I invite you to come as you are and allow me to walk alongside you on your journey of self-discovery. I will listen, guide, and support as you work towards peace, change, and growth. The greatest gift you can give yourself (and your children) is the most healed version of yourself. Allow me to help so that your past no longer controls your present.
(240) 896-2090 View (240) 896-2090
Photo of Victoria Wachter Seward, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Wachter Seward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704
Waitlist for new clients
For the past 16 yrs I've worked primarily with children & adolescents* on the autism spectrum. Of course working with children means working with parents; partnering with parents is essential so that the progress we make in sessions carries over to everyday family life. There is nothing better than finding the "secret" to reaching a child and seeing them blossom before your eyes. It might not happen overnight, but believe me, it happens. To make the most progress, children should begin therapy as early as possible. * I can see adult clients and couples, wkdays between 11 am - 2 pm.
For the past 16 yrs I've worked primarily with children & adolescents* on the autism spectrum. Of course working with children means working with parents; partnering with parents is essential so that the progress we make in sessions carries over to everyday family life. There is nothing better than finding the "secret" to reaching a child and seeing them blossom before your eyes. It might not happen overnight, but believe me, it happens. To make the most progress, children should begin therapy as early as possible. * I can see adult clients and couples, wkdays between 11 am - 2 pm.
(301) 684-5147 View (301) 684-5147
Photo of Allison Griffin - Allison Griffin, LCSW-C, LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Griffin, LCSW-C, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
Life can bring us many ups and downs, which often leaves us feeling confused, overwhelmed and out of control. I believe you have an ability to identify solutions to your problems, but may have become stuck. I will assist you to identify your strengths and work on your personal goals, to feel empowered and move forward in your life. Through a collaborative approach I use a strengths-based approach using cognitive behavior techniques,mindfulness,and play therapy with children. I provide a safe and confidential setting where you feel understood and validated.
Life can bring us many ups and downs, which often leaves us feeling confused, overwhelmed and out of control. I believe you have an ability to identify solutions to your problems, but may have become stuck. I will assist you to identify your strengths and work on your personal goals, to feel empowered and move forward in your life. Through a collaborative approach I use a strengths-based approach using cognitive behavior techniques,mindfulness,and play therapy with children. I provide a safe and confidential setting where you feel understood and validated.
(240) 512-9156 View (240) 512-9156
1

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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Urbana, MD

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Urbana, MD who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
81% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
70% Life Transitions
68% Women's Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

72% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% CareFirst
55% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Urbana, MD see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Urbana?

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.