Therapists in Helena, MT

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Photo of Jadin Van Steenvort - Fire Tower Therapy, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Fire Tower Therapy
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Let me introduce myself to you. I graduated from University of Phoenix Utah in 2010 and moved back home to Helena Montana shortly after that. Since returning home I have been practicing therapy in Helena. My style is more solution focused brief therapy which focuses on improving strengths to help manage stressors. It is my opinion that the client is the expert with the answers, my job is to help the client find those answers. For over a year I have been bringing my Yello lab Frank to sessions with me and have found great success with him.
Let me introduce myself to you. I graduated from University of Phoenix Utah in 2010 and moved back home to Helena Montana shortly after that. Since returning home I have been practicing therapy in Helena. My style is more solution focused brief therapy which focuses on improving strengths to help manage stressors. It is my opinion that the client is the expert with the answers, my job is to help the client find those answers. For over a year I have been bringing my Yello lab Frank to sessions with me and have found great success with him.
(406) 296-5375 View (406) 296-5375
Photo of Katelyn Wilson, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Katelyn Wilson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59602
Not accepting new clients
I am committed to helping clients find their voice, empowering individuals, and inspiring them to pursue their passions. I work with clients that are struggling with anxiety, body image, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship issues and disordered eating/eating disorders. My hopes are to help clients reach their goals while helping them feel empowered and moving toward a full and meaningful life, doing this through support, therapy, use of coping skills and education. I work with a variety of clientele and enjoy working with individuals and couples through transitions and conflict that may be experiencing.
I am committed to helping clients find their voice, empowering individuals, and inspiring them to pursue their passions. I work with clients that are struggling with anxiety, body image, self-esteem, life transitions, relationship issues and disordered eating/eating disorders. My hopes are to help clients reach their goals while helping them feel empowered and moving toward a full and meaningful life, doing this through support, therapy, use of coping skills and education. I work with a variety of clientele and enjoy working with individuals and couples through transitions and conflict that may be experiencing.
(406) 412-1673 View (406) 412-1673
Photo of Hannah Nixon -Big River Psychology, PsyD, MP, Psychologist
Hannah Nixon -Big River Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, MP
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Waitlist for new clients
With Neuropsychological testing, I help patients understand the relationship between brain functions, emotions, and behaviors. Testing can assist in the diagnosis, symptom monitoring, and treatment of neurological, medical, and psychiatric conditions. I use use a variety of sources to answer questions about intelligence, memory, executive functioning, learning delays, language, visual motor integration, developmental delays, emotional functioning, and personality traits. Common diagnostic questions may be related to Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ODD, OCD, trauma, and behavioral issues etc.
With Neuropsychological testing, I help patients understand the relationship between brain functions, emotions, and behaviors. Testing can assist in the diagnosis, symptom monitoring, and treatment of neurological, medical, and psychiatric conditions. I use use a variety of sources to answer questions about intelligence, memory, executive functioning, learning delays, language, visual motor integration, developmental delays, emotional functioning, and personality traits. Common diagnostic questions may be related to Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ODD, OCD, trauma, and behavioral issues etc.
(406) 296-5393 View (406) 296-5393
Photo of Duane Cordiner - Perceptions Mental Health LLC, MMFT, LCPC, Counselor
Perceptions Mental Health LLC
Counselor, MMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Hello, and welcome to Perceptions Mental Health, LLC. My name is Duane Cordiner, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am trained in solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), as well as good ol’ talk therapy. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in the areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, grief, loss, relationship issues, as well as other general mental health concerns.
Hello, and welcome to Perceptions Mental Health, LLC. My name is Duane Cordiner, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am trained in solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), as well as good ol’ talk therapy. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in the areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, grief, loss, relationship issues, as well as other general mental health concerns.
(406) 416-5376 View (406) 416-5376
Photo of Jen A Mittelstadt, MSW, SWLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jen A Mittelstadt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a safe place for exploration and healing. I believe in the power of a strong client/therapist relationship, and I am dedicated to giving you the opportunity to show up, just as you are. I have worked with folks experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, thoughts of suicide, grief, and loss. It can be hard to face these challenges, and hard to reach out. I am happy to offer free in-person or over the phone consultation.
I offer a safe place for exploration and healing. I believe in the power of a strong client/therapist relationship, and I am dedicated to giving you the opportunity to show up, just as you are. I have worked with folks experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, thoughts of suicide, grief, and loss. It can be hard to face these challenges, and hard to reach out. I am happy to offer free in-person or over the phone consultation.
(406) 345-6604 View (406) 345-6604
Photo of Emilie A. Graham, BA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilie A. Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
If relationships are not fulfilling, self-esteem is faltering, coping is a challenge, a life change is coming your way, or you just need some guidance, I can help. We will work through these feelings to find the life you want to live. My job: direct but compassionate insight and feedback. Your job: be open and be you. Commutes/transportation/family life/work etc. often get in the way of making the time for self-care that we need. To accommodate such obstacles, I also offer sessions online through a secure, confidential website.
If relationships are not fulfilling, self-esteem is faltering, coping is a challenge, a life change is coming your way, or you just need some guidance, I can help. We will work through these feelings to find the life you want to live. My job: direct but compassionate insight and feedback. Your job: be open and be you. Commutes/transportation/family life/work etc. often get in the way of making the time for self-care that we need. To accommodate such obstacles, I also offer sessions online through a secure, confidential website.
(406) 800-0955 View (406) 800-0955
Photo of Theresa Clearman - Clearman Counseling & Mental Health Services LLC, LCPC, Counselor
Clearman Counseling & Mental Health Services LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
My therapeutic approach emphasizes a focus on subconscious motives & creativity forms of expression. I am Depth Psychologist with a PhD in Community, Liberation, and Eco psychology and a Masters in Counseling Psychology. I do not believe in fixing people, but instead in helping them explore the reasons symptoms and behaviors are coming forward, then working toward building stronger coping skills and resiliency. Evidence for the efficacy of depth psychological approaches to psychotherapy is growing as studies show that depth psychology has a longer-lasting and more profound impact than cognitive or behavioral psychologies alone.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes a focus on subconscious motives & creativity forms of expression. I am Depth Psychologist with a PhD in Community, Liberation, and Eco psychology and a Masters in Counseling Psychology. I do not believe in fixing people, but instead in helping them explore the reasons symptoms and behaviors are coming forward, then working toward building stronger coping skills and resiliency. Evidence for the efficacy of depth psychological approaches to psychotherapy is growing as studies show that depth psychology has a longer-lasting and more profound impact than cognitive or behavioral psychologies alone.
(406) 412-6451 View (406) 412-6451
Photo of Kathryn Ann Trucano - Kathryn Trucano lcpc llc, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Kathryn Trucano lcpc llc
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I enjoy working with individuals (young adults and older adults). Depression, anxiety, grief, life changes/crises, developmental growth, attachment, relational issues, adverse spiritual and religious experiences, and other concerns are my areas of focus. I am open to all faith traditions. In addition to being a licensed professional counselor, I am also an ordained Interfaith Minister (2006). I completed the training on religious abuse/trauma through the Global Center for Religious Research group and “Understanding Cults: A Foundational Course for Clinicians” through the Freedom of Mind Resource Center.
I enjoy working with individuals (young adults and older adults). Depression, anxiety, grief, life changes/crises, developmental growth, attachment, relational issues, adverse spiritual and religious experiences, and other concerns are my areas of focus. I am open to all faith traditions. In addition to being a licensed professional counselor, I am also an ordained Interfaith Minister (2006). I completed the training on religious abuse/trauma through the Global Center for Religious Research group and “Understanding Cults: A Foundational Course for Clinicians” through the Freedom of Mind Resource Center.
(406) 412-1631 View (406) 412-1631
Photo of Genevieve Massey - My Best Life, LLC, LCPC, Counselor
My Best Life, LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
We all experience times in our lives where we need a little extra support, empathy, compassion, and understanding. Navigating the ebb and flows of life can be tedious and can take a toll on your mind, body, and spirit. Working through the barriers that our work life and family life can present can be difficult.
We all experience times in our lives where we need a little extra support, empathy, compassion, and understanding. Navigating the ebb and flows of life can be tedious and can take a toll on your mind, body, and spirit. Working through the barriers that our work life and family life can present can be difficult.
(406) 313-3709 View (406) 313-3709
Photo of Adam Bobinski, PCLC, MS, LPC Intern
Adam Bobinski
LPC Intern, PCLC, MS
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Are you struggling with the complex nature of life and its many facets which often drive us into spirals of negative thinking? Are you struggling with the life you live and how it has unfolded so far? Do you often feel frustrated? Angry? In need of clarity and mental peace? Have you had a difficult time processing or dealing with your anxiety and depression? Do you wish for more positive thinking in your life? These are just a few of the issues I treat often as a counselor who has struggled with many of those same issues and come out of it with a better view of my own life and the world around me. Call today to see if I can help!
Are you struggling with the complex nature of life and its many facets which often drive us into spirals of negative thinking? Are you struggling with the life you live and how it has unfolded so far? Do you often feel frustrated? Angry? In need of clarity and mental peace? Have you had a difficult time processing or dealing with your anxiety and depression? Do you wish for more positive thinking in your life? These are just a few of the issues I treat often as a counselor who has struggled with many of those same issues and come out of it with a better view of my own life and the world around me. Call today to see if I can help!
(406) 743-3456 View (406) 743-3456
Photo of Jamie D Anesi, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jamie D Anesi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At this time, I am exclusively a Telehealth provider for Montana clients. It is one of the most profound honors of my life the last 18 years to have people trust me with their deepest wounds and to share their journeys of courage. I have learned the importance of being lost, the language of rain and storms, and the deep echoing of the mourning howl. I believe that by allowing and accepting the mystery of loss with it's own timing, we have a chance to claim our path, our symbols. In order to become whole, the shadow and the light must be recognized, all must be explored.
At this time, I am exclusively a Telehealth provider for Montana clients. It is one of the most profound honors of my life the last 18 years to have people trust me with their deepest wounds and to share their journeys of courage. I have learned the importance of being lost, the language of rain and storms, and the deep echoing of the mourning howl. I believe that by allowing and accepting the mystery of loss with it's own timing, we have a chance to claim our path, our symbols. In order to become whole, the shadow and the light must be recognized, all must be explored.
(406) 229-3082 View (406) 229-3082
Photo of William Evans, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I am a LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor, and have been in practice for over 30 years. I hold a MA degree in Social Science from the University of Chicago, and a MSW in Clinical Social Work from the University of Denver. I have served as president of the National Association of Social Workers, Montana Chapter, and on several national NASW committees. After serving as director of the local mental health center and teaching part time in the Sociology Department at Carroll College, I started my own private practice: Adult and Child Counseling Service.
I am a LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor, and have been in practice for over 30 years. I hold a MA degree in Social Science from the University of Chicago, and a MSW in Clinical Social Work from the University of Denver. I have served as president of the National Association of Social Workers, Montana Chapter, and on several national NASW committees. After serving as director of the local mental health center and teaching part time in the Sociology Department at Carroll College, I started my own private practice: Adult and Child Counseling Service.
(406) 412-2158 View (406) 412-2158
Photo of Bailie Hillen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bailie Hillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
It is powerful to feel heard, experience genuine connection, and to be understood. Our past experiences don’t have to define who we are, but we can explore them in a way to decrease shame and understand how they’ve shaped us today. Together we will recognize connections, identify patterns, and become aware of barriers to feeling successful, loved, and self-assured.
It is powerful to feel heard, experience genuine connection, and to be understood. Our past experiences don’t have to define who we are, but we can explore them in a way to decrease shame and understand how they’ve shaped us today. Together we will recognize connections, identify patterns, and become aware of barriers to feeling successful, loved, and self-assured.
(406) 720-8739 View (406) 720-8739
Photo of Rebekah Price Orr, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Rebekah Price Orr
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
My belief is that everyone is deserving and capable of a full and meaningful life. Therapy offers a unique opportunity to explore the aspects of life that can be difficult to hike through alone. I believe in the healing power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship and work to provide a warm, supportive and empowering environment where lasting growth and change can take place.
My belief is that everyone is deserving and capable of a full and meaningful life. Therapy offers a unique opportunity to explore the aspects of life that can be difficult to hike through alone. I believe in the healing power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship and work to provide a warm, supportive and empowering environment where lasting growth and change can take place.
(406) 770-2302 View (406) 770-2302
Photo of Julie Turman - Transcending Therapy with Julie Turman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transcending Therapy with Julie Turman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
I invite you to experience therapy through a collaborative relationship based on safety, trust and shared decision making. Whether you’re looking for support in navigating a difficult life transition, trauma treatment or management of mental health disorders, time in session should be responsive and individualized in a manner that makes sense to you.
I invite you to experience therapy through a collaborative relationship based on safety, trust and shared decision making. Whether you’re looking for support in navigating a difficult life transition, trauma treatment or management of mental health disorders, time in session should be responsive and individualized in a manner that makes sense to you.
(406) 612-4405 View (406) 612-4405
Photo of Allison Flynn, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Flynn
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCLC
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Thanks so much for checking out my page. I’m so glad you’re here! I believe the heart of counseling is the healing quality we find within our relationship with others. Through relationships, we experience catharsis, safe exploration of troubles, growth, and transformation into who we are meant to be. I am excited to assist clients in moving from being stuck in old patterns to walking in newfound freedom.
Thanks so much for checking out my page. I’m so glad you’re here! I believe the heart of counseling is the healing quality we find within our relationship with others. Through relationships, we experience catharsis, safe exploration of troubles, growth, and transformation into who we are meant to be. I am excited to assist clients in moving from being stuck in old patterns to walking in newfound freedom.
(406) 438-5675 View (406) 438-5675
Photo of Kristin Alvey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Alvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve been in the mental health field for over 25 years and take a relational approach considering the individual, environment, life experiences, personality, needs and strengths of each person. I enjoy supporting adults, children and families improve communication skills, self awareness, acceptance, and learn adaptive ways to regulate/ manage emotions and behaviors. We will work together to increase insight and awareness and you or your child's overall functioning, and reduce problematic symptoms/behaviors. My clients have expressed feeling safe and accepted and often share appreciating the depth of our work together.
I’ve been in the mental health field for over 25 years and take a relational approach considering the individual, environment, life experiences, personality, needs and strengths of each person. I enjoy supporting adults, children and families improve communication skills, self awareness, acceptance, and learn adaptive ways to regulate/ manage emotions and behaviors. We will work together to increase insight and awareness and you or your child's overall functioning, and reduce problematic symptoms/behaviors. My clients have expressed feeling safe and accepted and often share appreciating the depth of our work together.
(385) 206-6753 View (385) 206-6753
Photo of Ashley Browne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Are you looking for a space to create insight and grow interpersonally? Have you experienced loss and are trying to navigate grief, and a new version of normal? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life demands and struggling to find agency? Do you hope for connection and authenticity? I am trained to leverage our innate curiosity in search of the underlying need behind our behaviors. Do we need understanding, to feel worthy, to be understood, to feel valued and accepted? Let's dig into this and make meaning of our feelings.
Are you looking for a space to create insight and grow interpersonally? Have you experienced loss and are trying to navigate grief, and a new version of normal? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life demands and struggling to find agency? Do you hope for connection and authenticity? I am trained to leverage our innate curiosity in search of the underlying need behind our behaviors. Do we need understanding, to feel worthy, to be understood, to feel valued and accepted? Let's dig into this and make meaning of our feelings.
(406) 637-7303 View (406) 637-7303
Photo of Becky Oss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becky Oss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Helena, MT 59601
Not accepting new clients
We seek therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues,stress management and body image issues. Secondly, I also do clinical supervision for licensure hours and consult on private practice building.
We seek therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues,stress management and body image issues. Secondly, I also do clinical supervision for licensure hours and consult on private practice building.
(406) 290-9948 View (406) 290-9948
Photo of Krystle Gawel-Kulesa, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krystle Gawel-Kulesa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helena, MT 59601
Not accepting new clients
Do your current life circumstances have you feeling stuck, unmotivated or lacking hope? Looking into therapy is a brave first step into cultivating the change you desire. My therapeutic approach is built on a foundation of relationship, trust and empathy. I believe that every individual already possesses the innate skills to solve whatever stressful life events or challenges with which they are presented. It is my role as a therapist to assist individuals in discovering and strengthening those skills so they are able to overcome challenges and navigate their lives in a healthy and empowered manner.
Do your current life circumstances have you feeling stuck, unmotivated or lacking hope? Looking into therapy is a brave first step into cultivating the change you desire. My therapeutic approach is built on a foundation of relationship, trust and empathy. I believe that every individual already possesses the innate skills to solve whatever stressful life events or challenges with which they are presented. It is my role as a therapist to assist individuals in discovering and strengthening those skills so they are able to overcome challenges and navigate their lives in a healthy and empowered manner.
(406) 926-7256 View (406) 926-7256

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Helena, MT

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Helena, MT who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
83% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Allegiance
74% PacificSource

How Therapists in Helena, MT see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Helena?

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.