Therapists in Lebanon, ME

Photo of Blanca Obregón, MA LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blanca Obregón
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Verified Verified
Lebanon, ME 04027  (Online Only)
Immediate Openings! I am a licensed professional counselor both in Maine and Az. Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, growth and bringing thoughts/behaviors into awareness. Whether you need help navigating relationship difficulties, or letting go of things that no longer serve you; or you are looking for more balance, well-being, and meaning in your life. It takes courage to seek help when experiencing a life changing event such as death, divorce, or illness. I take a creative and empathic approach to therapy. I aim to help you tell your story, become self-aware, find your strengths, make viable choices, & face change creatively.
Immediate Openings! I am a licensed professional counselor both in Maine and Az. Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, growth and bringing thoughts/behaviors into awareness. Whether you need help navigating relationship difficulties, or letting go of things that no longer serve you; or you are looking for more balance, well-being, and meaning in your life. It takes courage to seek help when experiencing a life changing event such as death, divorce, or illness. I take a creative and empathic approach to therapy. I aim to help you tell your story, become self-aware, find your strengths, make viable choices, & face change creatively.
(207) 393-2672 View (207) 393-2672
Photo of Nicole Bates, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lebanon, ME 04027  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you going through a significant life transition or dealing with loss? Maybe you are questioning your choices and consider yourself an "overthinker". Have you found yourself not participating in activities you used to enjoy? It feels like things are going well, but you are not feeling content. These are common issues rhe individuals I work with. I want to support you in reaching your goals and increasing your ability to handle the stressors in your life. You are able to make the necessary changes and find success, allow me to help you discover and tap into your potential to create the life you want.
Are you going through a significant life transition or dealing with loss? Maybe you are questioning your choices and consider yourself an "overthinker". Have you found yourself not participating in activities you used to enjoy? It feels like things are going well, but you are not feeling content. These are common issues rhe individuals I work with. I want to support you in reaching your goals and increasing your ability to handle the stressors in your life. You are able to make the necessary changes and find success, allow me to help you discover and tap into your potential to create the life you want.
(603) 847-7156 View (603) 847-7156

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Juleen Ann Chiaradonna, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Juleen Ann Chiaradonna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, ME 04073  (Online Only)
Hello! If you are reading this and looking for help you are right where you need to be :) I like to think of myself as an "UNshrink" . I believe in helping to de-pathologize you and whatever it is that you are struggling w, and helping you to experience your self, situation, and LIFE in a whole new way. I'm usually a good fit for ppl that aren't into traditional "therapy" for whatever reason: anxiety, skepticism, bad or unsuccessful past experiences, if you think you, your family, everything is/are beyond hope, or if you are interested in something completely "outside the box", bc that is me.
Hello! If you are reading this and looking for help you are right where you need to be :) I like to think of myself as an "UNshrink" . I believe in helping to de-pathologize you and whatever it is that you are struggling w, and helping you to experience your self, situation, and LIFE in a whole new way. I'm usually a good fit for ppl that aren't into traditional "therapy" for whatever reason: anxiety, skepticism, bad or unsuccessful past experiences, if you think you, your family, everything is/are beyond hope, or if you are interested in something completely "outside the box", bc that is me.
(603) 387-4388 View (603) 387-4388
Photo of Amanda M Richard, Pastoral Counselor
Amanda M Richard
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, ME 04073
I believe we are all put here to fulfil the plans and purpose the Lord has for our lives. Sometimes along the way, we can get a little derailed or just not know how to quantify that. As we heal past hurts and areas of conflict, we can begin to dream again and find right where we need to be. It would be an honor to walk alongside you in your journey! I am an Ordained Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and a Certified Temperament Christian Counselor through the National Christian Counselors Association (NCCA).
I believe we are all put here to fulfil the plans and purpose the Lord has for our lives. Sometimes along the way, we can get a little derailed or just not know how to quantify that. As we heal past hurts and areas of conflict, we can begin to dream again and find right where we need to be. It would be an honor to walk alongside you in your journey! I am an Ordained Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and a Certified Temperament Christian Counselor through the National Christian Counselors Association (NCCA).
(207) 640-2830 View (207) 640-2830
Photo of Carrie Kahl - Thornapple Therapy and Consulting LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thornapple Therapy and Consulting LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springvale, ME 04083  (Online Only)
Carrie (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Kink, ethical non-monogamy, and gender diversity. She practices from a place of radical non-judgmentalism, as well as value exploration and affirmation. She is passionate about disability rights, secularism, abortion access, harm reduction, antiracist practice, trans rights, and sexual liberation. Proximity to privilege statement- Carrie is a white, cis gender woman from a middle class background
Carrie (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Kink, ethical non-monogamy, and gender diversity. She practices from a place of radical non-judgmentalism, as well as value exploration and affirmation. She is passionate about disability rights, secularism, abortion access, harm reduction, antiracist practice, trans rights, and sexual liberation. Proximity to privilege statement- Carrie is a white, cis gender woman from a middle class background
View
Photo of Oliver Parkes, MS, LCPC-C, Counselor
Oliver Parkes
Counselor, MS, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwick, ME 03901
The mask you put out into the world doesn’t quite match your inner self. People don’t see you how you see yourself, you don’t know how you see yourself —it’s exhausting, isolating, and often debilitating. You are wondering how to navigate this life with all its trials. You might by wondering if you are living a life that has meaning for you. Now, imagine living true to yourself, and the joy of life without a mask. Visualize yourself with greater self-awareness, emotional understanding, and the ability to negotiate life from a more centered and present perspective. This is the courage to be, and it already resides inside of you.
The mask you put out into the world doesn’t quite match your inner self. People don’t see you how you see yourself, you don’t know how you see yourself —it’s exhausting, isolating, and often debilitating. You are wondering how to navigate this life with all its trials. You might by wondering if you are living a life that has meaning for you. Now, imagine living true to yourself, and the joy of life without a mask. Visualize yourself with greater self-awareness, emotional understanding, and the ability to negotiate life from a more centered and present perspective. This is the courage to be, and it already resides inside of you.
(207) 708-8194 View (207) 708-8194
Photo of Judy Gagnon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Gagnon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springvale, ME 04083
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and survive trauma. I also believe in the importance of the therapist client relationship in the therapy process. When client’s feel safe, heard, and supported they are able to tap into their own strengths and find the courage to examine and address the issues in their life. I use a strengths-based approach that helps clients identify and utilize their own strengths to resolve whatever issues their struggling with. Combining client strengths with evidence-based therapy gives clients the tools they need to overcome their challenges.
I believe in the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and survive trauma. I also believe in the importance of the therapist client relationship in the therapy process. When client’s feel safe, heard, and supported they are able to tap into their own strengths and find the courage to examine and address the issues in their life. I use a strengths-based approach that helps clients identify and utilize their own strengths to resolve whatever issues their struggling with. Combining client strengths with evidence-based therapy gives clients the tools they need to overcome their challenges.
(207) 218-0517 View (207) 218-0517
Photo of Kathleen Hebden, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Hebden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, ME 04073
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with sadness, anxiety or depression? Is communication a problem in your relationship? Have the wounds and hurt experienced as a child held you back? I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years to adolescents and adults. I have worked in substance abuse treatment centers with dual-diagnosis clients, public school systems providing counseling to adolescents as well as their parents. I received my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work at Barry University in Miami, Florida. Professional Certification in life and career coaching from University of New Hampshire,
Are you struggling with sadness, anxiety or depression? Is communication a problem in your relationship? Have the wounds and hurt experienced as a child held you back? I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years to adolescents and adults. I have worked in substance abuse treatment centers with dual-diagnosis clients, public school systems providing counseling to adolescents as well as their parents. I received my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work at Barry University in Miami, Florida. Professional Certification in life and career coaching from University of New Hampshire,
(207) 420-2145 View (207) 420-2145
Photo of Deb Hamilton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, ME 04073
Not accepting new clients
Feeling anxious, burnt out and overwhelmed? Lost someone close to you, or have had a change in your life and you’re feeling depressed or stuck? Time is precious and you deserve to live your best life. Let’s explore what that looks like for you, uncover patterns in your life that may not be healthy, and build on your strengths. Take the first step to wellness. Contact me. Let’s talk and see if it’s a good fit.
Feeling anxious, burnt out and overwhelmed? Lost someone close to you, or have had a change in your life and you’re feeling depressed or stuck? Time is precious and you deserve to live your best life. Let’s explore what that looks like for you, uncover patterns in your life that may not be healthy, and build on your strengths. Take the first step to wellness. Contact me. Let’s talk and see if it’s a good fit.
(207) 742-1873 View (207) 742-1873
Michael W Bean
Counselor, LCPC, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Sanford, ME 04073
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in empowering yourself through balance, awareness, knowledge and skills that enable you to gain a sense of meaning in your life.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in empowering yourself through balance, awareness, knowledge and skills that enable you to gain a sense of meaning in your life.
(207) 222-7765 View (207) 222-7765
Photo of Nannette Nero, MS, CAGS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nannette Nero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, CAGS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Springvale, ME 04083
Currently, my primary work is with Individual Adults, in Kennebunk, Maine and Telehealth in Maine, Massachusetts and Florida. We all want to be happy. And many of us are happy much of the time as ordinary events pass through us without leaving a mark. And then, something happens and we're stuck. These events narrow our view of ourselves, our world and keep us from living to our full potential. Your problems affect who you are today and you want things to change. I can help you reduce what keeps you stuck so that you can move forward living your life in a more fulfilling and meaningful way.
Currently, my primary work is with Individual Adults, in Kennebunk, Maine and Telehealth in Maine, Massachusetts and Florida. We all want to be happy. And many of us are happy much of the time as ordinary events pass through us without leaving a mark. And then, something happens and we're stuck. These events narrow our view of ourselves, our world and keep us from living to our full potential. Your problems affect who you are today and you want things to change. I can help you reduce what keeps you stuck so that you can move forward living your life in a more fulfilling and meaningful way.
(207) 518-7851 View (207) 518-7851
Photo of Susan H Lombardo, LADC, MHRT-C, DEEP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Susan H Lombardo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, MHRT-C, DEEP
Verified Verified
Sanford, ME 04073
Not accepting new clients
With more than 30 years of experience in the field of substance abuse, I am committed to helping those wanting to live healthier, more productive lives in their journey of recovery. I have a great deal of experience with both adolescents and adults, especially those struggling with legal issues related to their use. I am also interested in providing support for those affected by others' substance use. Please call and ask me how I can help you achieve your goals of repairing relationships, becoming physically and emotionally healthy and dealing with any of the life challenges brought about by substance abuse.
With more than 30 years of experience in the field of substance abuse, I am committed to helping those wanting to live healthier, more productive lives in their journey of recovery. I have a great deal of experience with both adolescents and adults, especially those struggling with legal issues related to their use. I am also interested in providing support for those affected by others' substance use. Please call and ask me how I can help you achieve your goals of repairing relationships, becoming physically and emotionally healthy and dealing with any of the life challenges brought about by substance abuse.
(207) 306-2953 View (207) 306-2953
Photo of Daisy Cassidy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daisy Cassidy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwick, ME 03901
I believe that one of the most important things a therapist can do is offer a place where people feel accepted for exactly who they are. When people feel accepted they are more comfortable sharing their stories, working towards change, and accepting themselves. With the support of a therapist, it is possible to gain a better understanding of one’s self, improve relationships, effectively manage stress, see things from a different perspective, and replace what is not working with what might work better. Please visit my website at www.birchhavennh.com for more information.
I believe that one of the most important things a therapist can do is offer a place where people feel accepted for exactly who they are. When people feel accepted they are more comfortable sharing their stories, working towards change, and accepting themselves. With the support of a therapist, it is possible to gain a better understanding of one’s self, improve relationships, effectively manage stress, see things from a different perspective, and replace what is not working with what might work better. Please visit my website at www.birchhavennh.com for more information.
(978) 482-7571 View (978) 482-7571
Photo of Toni Bennett, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, ME 04073
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
(207) 560-0905 View (207) 560-0905
Photo of Jennifer Laferriere - Serenity Counseling PLLC, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwick, ME 03901  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships that affect your day-to-day life, ability to function at home or work? Do you feel exhausted/ overwhelmed by what it means to live up to someone else’s standards, getting through the day, completing household tasks, or responding to text messages? Do you question if relationships or ability to function day to day could feel easier? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed about overcoming difficult relationships, working through a loss, or finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships that affect your day-to-day life, ability to function at home or work? Do you feel exhausted/ overwhelmed by what it means to live up to someone else’s standards, getting through the day, completing household tasks, or responding to text messages? Do you question if relationships or ability to function day to day could feel easier? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed about overcoming difficult relationships, working through a loss, or finding their place in life.
(603) 828-2991 View (603) 828-2991
Photo of Eileen Sutherland, MSW, MBA
Eileen Sutherland
MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Berwick, ME 03901
I work with WOMEN seeking support around a variety of issues - self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, work, parenting, and more. My approach is positive, strengths-based, and solution-focused. I firmly believe that in every person and situation, there is hope. When you are ready, I will gently help you move from where you are to where you want to be.
I work with WOMEN seeking support around a variety of issues - self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, work, parenting, and more. My approach is positive, strengths-based, and solution-focused. I firmly believe that in every person and situation, there is hope. When you are ready, I will gently help you move from where you are to where you want to be.
(603) 686-7762 View (603) 686-7762
Photo of Jody Jansen, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jody Jansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Springvale, ME 04083
Not accepting new clients
While the avenues of our lives seem very predictable, all too often that predictability falls to the way side. We summon the resources we know from our past. A feeling of being off balance, overwhelmed, misunderstood and at times alone can pressure our basic instincts. I am grateful to the individual who chooses to explore with me the answers they may already hold. The process of bringing concerns to the room and taking the time to look, study and explore individual needs and strengths begins the journey to self acceptance.
While the avenues of our lives seem very predictable, all too often that predictability falls to the way side. We summon the resources we know from our past. A feeling of being off balance, overwhelmed, misunderstood and at times alone can pressure our basic instincts. I am grateful to the individual who chooses to explore with me the answers they may already hold. The process of bringing concerns to the room and taking the time to look, study and explore individual needs and strengths begins the journey to self acceptance.
(207) 518-7514 View (207) 518-7514
Photo of Stefanie Berry, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefanie Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Berwick, ME 03901
Not accepting new clients
Life is filled with many ups and many downs. Unfortunately, it is the downs that we tend to focus on which can lead us to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and hopeless. I respect and validate the struggles my clients have endured and help them realize they have the ability to make change and live a better life. My goal is for my clients to gain knowledge, coping strategies, and to feel empowered to overcome challenges. I work with my clients to make treatment as simple, realistic, and light hearted as possible.
Life is filled with many ups and many downs. Unfortunately, it is the downs that we tend to focus on which can lead us to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and hopeless. I respect and validate the struggles my clients have endured and help them realize they have the ability to make change and live a better life. My goal is for my clients to gain knowledge, coping strategies, and to feel empowered to overcome challenges. I work with my clients to make treatment as simple, realistic, and light hearted as possible.
(603) 392-7999 View (603) 392-7999
Photo of Ashleigh Locklear, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashleigh Locklear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Sanford, ME 04073
Not accepting new clients
***Not accepting new clients at this time*** As a therapist, my passion is helping women navigate the many stresses and curveballs life throws at us. Society expects a lot of women and its impossible to meet all of those expectations. I am here to help you determine what makes you thrive and help build your confidence to take the steps to reach your dreams. Together we will find your calm, bring out your inner strength, and work to balance the many roles you have.
***Not accepting new clients at this time*** As a therapist, my passion is helping women navigate the many stresses and curveballs life throws at us. Society expects a lot of women and its impossible to meet all of those expectations. I am here to help you determine what makes you thrive and help build your confidence to take the steps to reach your dreams. Together we will find your calm, bring out your inner strength, and work to balance the many roles you have.
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Photo of Bette J Freedson, LICSW, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bette J Freedson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Berwick, ME 03901  (Online Only)
I am Bette Freedson. Besides being a licensed individual, couples and group therapist, I am also a Psychic. My specialty is in intuitive development. I can give you a one-time intuitive reading and/or teach you how to apply intuition for more effective coping. I have expertise with stress management, 12-step program, co-dependency, trauma issues, eating issues, & parenting issues. My sessions are interactive, expressive and experiential. I am also offering groups and workshops for improved coping via intuitive development. I no longer accept insurance. I do have a PayPal option.
I am Bette Freedson. Besides being a licensed individual, couples and group therapist, I am also a Psychic. My specialty is in intuitive development. I can give you a one-time intuitive reading and/or teach you how to apply intuition for more effective coping. I have expertise with stress management, 12-step program, co-dependency, trauma issues, eating issues, & parenting issues. My sessions are interactive, expressive and experiential. I am also offering groups and workshops for improved coping via intuitive development. I no longer accept insurance. I do have a PayPal option.
(207) 222-7262 View (207) 222-7262

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lebanon, ME

< 10

Therapists in Lebanon, ME who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Divorce
100% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

28 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth
50% Harvard Pilgrim

How Therapists in Lebanon, ME see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lebanon?

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.