Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

Photo of Brittany Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all". -Dale Carnegie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have years of experiencing treating children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in both outpatient and inpatient mental health settings. I have done pregnancy/parenting/adoption education and counseling, substance abuse/dependence counseling, and mental health counseling. I have worked with clients with a wide array of diagnosis or clients just needing help with life transitions or struggles.
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all". -Dale Carnegie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have years of experiencing treating children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in both outpatient and inpatient mental health settings. I have done pregnancy/parenting/adoption education and counseling, substance abuse/dependence counseling, and mental health counseling. I have worked with clients with a wide array of diagnosis or clients just needing help with life transitions or struggles.
(815) 635-8017 View (815) 635-8017
Photo of Patricia Brady, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hello, and welcome to my profile! If you are reading this, there is a good chance that you are searching for relief from a current issue or situation in your life that is causing you stress. Or maybe you are simply looking to explore where you are at, and where you are going. I am a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience in helping individuals in all walks of life and in a variety of mental health settings which include outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, inpatient substance abuse rehabilitation centers, and the Illinois Department of Corrections.
Hello, and welcome to my profile! If you are reading this, there is a good chance that you are searching for relief from a current issue or situation in your life that is causing you stress. Or maybe you are simply looking to explore where you are at, and where you are going. I am a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience in helping individuals in all walks of life and in a variety of mental health settings which include outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, inpatient substance abuse rehabilitation centers, and the Illinois Department of Corrections.
(815) 934-3252 View (815) 934-3252
Photo of Emily Catherine Benson - Lavender Hope, PLLC, MA, LCPC
Lavender Hope, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Have you felt tired, stuck, or burnt out for longer than you can remember? Sometimes looking in the mirror is hard because you no longer recognize the person staring back at you. Life has a way of pushing and pulling and it can feel as though you've lost control of your emotions, relationships, and direction in life. You're not sure where to start to make changes. Adding counseling to your schedule can feel like another thing you don't have time to do, but if not now, when? Aren't you ready to step back and asses what is not working to get control of your life back? Together we can take steps toward healing and finding YOU again.
Have you felt tired, stuck, or burnt out for longer than you can remember? Sometimes looking in the mirror is hard because you no longer recognize the person staring back at you. Life has a way of pushing and pulling and it can feel as though you've lost control of your emotions, relationships, and direction in life. You're not sure where to start to make changes. Adding counseling to your schedule can feel like another thing you don't have time to do, but if not now, when? Aren't you ready to step back and asses what is not working to get control of your life back? Together we can take steps toward healing and finding YOU again.
(815) 456-8646 View (815) 456-8646
Photo of Ruth Bartman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruth Bartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Ruth Bartman, LPC, is non-judgmental, providing a safe and healing space for clients to explore life's challenges. Compassion, empathy, and respect is incorporated, building therapeutic and trusting relationships. She focuses on client's strengths and resilience to assist with creating a healthy, happy, and productive life. Ruth aids clients age 5 and above with grief, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, transgender, and more. She's skilled with end of life concerns with focus on quality of life. Ruth is skillful supporting adolescents and adults with complex trauma.
Ruth Bartman, LPC, is non-judgmental, providing a safe and healing space for clients to explore life's challenges. Compassion, empathy, and respect is incorporated, building therapeutic and trusting relationships. She focuses on client's strengths and resilience to assist with creating a healthy, happy, and productive life. Ruth aids clients age 5 and above with grief, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, transgender, and more. She's skilled with end of life concerns with focus on quality of life. Ruth is skillful supporting adolescents and adults with complex trauma.
(815) 384-1045 View (815) 384-1045
Photo of Brandon Douglas, LCPC
Brandon Douglas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Are you ready to start experiencing life rather than just surviving day to day? Maybe symptoms like high anxiety or depression get in your way. It’s hard to thrive when you’re constantly worried about the past or overwhelmed by the present. I’ve seen so many gifted people unable to embrace their full potential. No matter what you’re going through you’re not defined by your diagnosis. With the right support you can overcome the obstacles that keep you from living a joyful and meaningful life. My job is to help you heal and build the confidence to do just that.
Are you ready to start experiencing life rather than just surviving day to day? Maybe symptoms like high anxiety or depression get in your way. It’s hard to thrive when you’re constantly worried about the past or overwhelmed by the present. I’ve seen so many gifted people unable to embrace their full potential. No matter what you’re going through you’re not defined by your diagnosis. With the right support you can overcome the obstacles that keep you from living a joyful and meaningful life. My job is to help you heal and build the confidence to do just that.
(815) 569-0943 View (815) 569-0943
Photo of Pamela A Ford - Pamela Ford Counseling, LCPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Ford Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Therapy can be both rewarding and difficult. At Pamela Ford Counseling what you can expect is a judgment free zone where you will be able to grow and heal at your own pace–This is a safe space. I have over 20 years of experience in the addictions field as well as mental health. I have continued my own personal journey of growth and understand what it’s like to sit in the client chair. My goal is that you will feel comfortable and have a safe place to expand and grow.
Therapy can be both rewarding and difficult. At Pamela Ford Counseling what you can expect is a judgment free zone where you will be able to grow and heal at your own pace–This is a safe space. I have over 20 years of experience in the addictions field as well as mental health. I have continued my own personal journey of growth and understand what it’s like to sit in the client chair. My goal is that you will feel comfortable and have a safe place to expand and grow.
(815) 336-4303 View (815) 336-4303
Photo of Andrea Lareau, MSW, MT-BC
Andrea Lareau
MSW, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
We know life is full of ups and down. Sometimes there are more days where you dread getting out of bed, when we hit snooze to avoid the stresses that everyday life brings; our work and/or school responsibilities become daunting, or your marriage is fragile. Anxiety may be preventing you from embracing life to the fullest; maybe you have lost a loved one and need time and space to grieve. You are already taking the first step in helping yourself by looking for a therapist who can met your needs!
We know life is full of ups and down. Sometimes there are more days where you dread getting out of bed, when we hit snooze to avoid the stresses that everyday life brings; our work and/or school responsibilities become daunting, or your marriage is fragile. Anxiety may be preventing you from embracing life to the fullest; maybe you have lost a loved one and need time and space to grieve. You are already taking the first step in helping yourself by looking for a therapist who can met your needs!
(815) 934-8932 View (815) 934-8932
Photo of Megan P, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan P
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Now accepting NEW clients! Please EMAIL to set up a new client intake appointment! I understand that all people ultimately strive to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their lives, but often times, life can get in the way of itself. I will help you recognize your value, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve the therapy outcomes you desire. I offer a warm, welcoming environment, with sessions structured to suit each client's own individual goals and needs.
Now accepting NEW clients! Please EMAIL to set up a new client intake appointment! I understand that all people ultimately strive to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their lives, but often times, life can get in the way of itself. I will help you recognize your value, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve the therapy outcomes you desire. I offer a warm, welcoming environment, with sessions structured to suit each client's own individual goals and needs.
(815) 768-2227 View (815) 768-2227
Photo of Nicole Roy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Nicole Roy graduated from Governors State University in 2013 with a Master's Degree in Community Counseling. She has spent time working in various settings including residential treatment and community counseling centers. Nicole uses a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet the needs of her clients. She typically utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy but also includes aspects of Supportive Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Nicole helps clients address a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life events.
Nicole Roy graduated from Governors State University in 2013 with a Master's Degree in Community Counseling. She has spent time working in various settings including residential treatment and community counseling centers. Nicole uses a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet the needs of her clients. She typically utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy but also includes aspects of Supportive Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Nicole helps clients address a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life events.
(815) 706-2807 View (815) 706-2807
Photo of Dr. Mary Ann Dier Zimmerman, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Mary Ann Dier Zimmerman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Not accepting new clients
Healing is a unique journey of transformation toward Wholeness, Peacefulness, and Happiness. I listen with full attention to show you compassion, empathy and care in a safe, confidential relationship. Your integrity will be respected. Whether you work on Depression, Grief, Relationships, LGBTQ issues, or Faith/Religious concerns we will journey toward healing of body, mind and spirit. Healing happens in connection, so we can also focus on healing relationships with family and friends, and your support system. You will receive an assessment and together we can explore enhancing and expanding your support systems.
Healing is a unique journey of transformation toward Wholeness, Peacefulness, and Happiness. I listen with full attention to show you compassion, empathy and care in a safe, confidential relationship. Your integrity will be respected. Whether you work on Depression, Grief, Relationships, LGBTQ issues, or Faith/Religious concerns we will journey toward healing of body, mind and spirit. Healing happens in connection, so we can also focus on healing relationships with family and friends, and your support system. You will receive an assessment and together we can explore enhancing and expanding your support systems.
(815) 556-9973 View (815) 556-9973
Photo of Sarah Willis, MA, NCC, LCPC
Sarah Willis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hi! Maybe this is your first time or maybe you’ve tried counseling in the past. It can be difficult to reach out and make that phone call, so I appreciate the time you are taking to read my profile. Life can be challenging bringing up many thoughts and feelings, sometimes from our past as well as the present.
Hi! Maybe this is your first time or maybe you’ve tried counseling in the past. It can be difficult to reach out and make that phone call, so I appreciate the time you are taking to read my profile. Life can be challenging bringing up many thoughts and feelings, sometimes from our past as well as the present.
(815) 889-0655 View (815) 889-0655
Photo of Janelle Bagley, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janelle Bagley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
First, praise yourself for taking that step to seek help. That's half the battle, so you're already half way there! It isn't easy, asking for help, but you are doing it. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been dedicated to the field of mental health for nearly 17 years now. In my approach I work hard to create an environment that encourages trust and the ability to build a positive rapport. From that foundation blossoms our joint exploration where you will begin to feel empowered to allow personal growth and healing, as you actively engage in your roadmap to satisfaction.
First, praise yourself for taking that step to seek help. That's half the battle, so you're already half way there! It isn't easy, asking for help, but you are doing it. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been dedicated to the field of mental health for nearly 17 years now. In my approach I work hard to create an environment that encourages trust and the ability to build a positive rapport. From that foundation blossoms our joint exploration where you will begin to feel empowered to allow personal growth and healing, as you actively engage in your roadmap to satisfaction.
(815) 205-0453 View (815) 205-0453
Photo of Kristin Bailey, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I am grateful you are taking this first step in your healing journey. I get this shit isn't easy! Do you ever notice when one part of you feels 'off', all of you feels off? This why I take an approach that looks at the whole person and all parts of life. How would it feel to believe in yourself? Feel less drained? It IS possible (read that again), and I am here to support you through this (messy) healing journey!
I am grateful you are taking this first step in your healing journey. I get this shit isn't easy! Do you ever notice when one part of you feels 'off', all of you feels off? This why I take an approach that looks at the whole person and all parts of life. How would it feel to believe in yourself? Feel less drained? It IS possible (read that again), and I am here to support you through this (messy) healing journey!
(815) 240-9159 View (815) 240-9159
Photo of Polly M Vaughn - Institute for Social and Emotional Learning, EdD, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Institute for Social and Emotional Learning
Counselor, EdD, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
(815) 768-3134 View (815) 768-3134
Photo of Ben Meils, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Meils
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Ben Meils, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, brings a wealth of experience across diverse mental health settings, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of the human experience. His professional journey includes invaluable roles in inpatient psychiatric settings, residential treatment, a university counseling center, private practice, addiction treatment, and community mental health, allowing him to adeptly navigate a wide spectrum of presenting issues. Armed with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Ben's therapeutic approach is person-centered, unconditionally accepting, and nonjudgmental.
Ben Meils, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, brings a wealth of experience across diverse mental health settings, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of the human experience. His professional journey includes invaluable roles in inpatient psychiatric settings, residential treatment, a university counseling center, private practice, addiction treatment, and community mental health, allowing him to adeptly navigate a wide spectrum of presenting issues. Armed with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Ben's therapeutic approach is person-centered, unconditionally accepting, and nonjudgmental.
(815) 706-2343 View (815) 706-2343
Photo of Michelle Flores, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Flores
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Michelle Flores is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Michelle offers clients a safe space to talk when they are struggling to manage life. She is reliable and provides clients with unconditional empathy. Michelle offers her clients the ability to feel comfortable while being vulnerable. Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her dogs and chickens. She loves to spend time in her vegetable garden that she grows every year. She loves to spend time outside. Her favorite thing to do is read a good book outside when the weather is nice.
Michelle Flores is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Michelle offers clients a safe space to talk when they are struggling to manage life. She is reliable and provides clients with unconditional empathy. Michelle offers her clients the ability to feel comfortable while being vulnerable. Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her dogs and chickens. She loves to spend time in her vegetable garden that she grows every year. She loves to spend time outside. Her favorite thing to do is read a good book outside when the weather is nice.
(815) 645-9185 View (815) 645-9185
Photo of Jared Coffman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jared Coffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
What if your anxiety or depression didn’t stand in your way from accomplishing what you wanted anymore? What if your stress was more manageable and you were in more control over what kind of thoughts stuck around in your mind? What if you understood more about yourself and who you are? What if you were able to move beyond your trauma and no longer let it define you? What if you and your partner were able to regain some of that excitement you had when you first met? If you would like to know the answers to any of those questions, I would love to hear from you.
What if your anxiety or depression didn’t stand in your way from accomplishing what you wanted anymore? What if your stress was more manageable and you were in more control over what kind of thoughts stuck around in your mind? What if you understood more about yourself and who you are? What if you were able to move beyond your trauma and no longer let it define you? What if you and your partner were able to regain some of that excitement you had when you first met? If you would like to know the answers to any of those questions, I would love to hear from you.
(815) 240-0752 View (815) 240-0752
Photo of Benay McCue, MA, LCPC
Benay McCue
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Want to live a more meaningful life? Would you like to be happier, more joyful? Not sure where you want to go or what to change? I am a more active therapist in partnership with you to help you become more self-aware and stronger, and to map out a new direction to a more fulfilling life. Whether you want to completely change your life or want to achieve greater understanding, even small changes can achieve big results!
Want to live a more meaningful life? Would you like to be happier, more joyful? Not sure where you want to go or what to change? I am a more active therapist in partnership with you to help you become more self-aware and stronger, and to map out a new direction to a more fulfilling life. Whether you want to completely change your life or want to achieve greater understanding, even small changes can achieve big results!
(815) 317-5055 View (815) 317-5055
Photo of Jamie J Beedle, MSW
Jamie J Beedle
Licensed Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I am a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in settings such as: public schools, alternative schools working with children ages preschool through adulthood.
I am a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in settings such as: public schools, alternative schools working with children ages preschool through adulthood.
(815) 605-7593 View (815) 605-7593
Photo of Andrew M Fisher, MA, LCPC, I/ECHMC, Counselor
Andrew M Fisher
Counselor, MA, LCPC, I/ECHMC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
So often, we experience a time in our life where we feel stuck, misunderstood, or perplexed of what to do next. Have you experienced an event in your life that is challenging to move past? Feeling at a loss of how to repair a relationship, whether adult or child? These situations can be overwhelming and bring up a whole host of emotions that impact us in many ways. I use a relational and attachment based approach to help individuals, couples and families establish and maintain healthy relationships and strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and children of all ages.
So often, we experience a time in our life where we feel stuck, misunderstood, or perplexed of what to do next. Have you experienced an event in your life that is challenging to move past? Feeling at a loss of how to repair a relationship, whether adult or child? These situations can be overwhelming and bring up a whole host of emotions that impact us in many ways. I use a relational and attachment based approach to help individuals, couples and families establish and maintain healthy relationships and strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and children of all ages.
(815) 281-5315 View (815) 281-5315
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
95% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
67% Grief
66% Self Esteem
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bourbonnais?

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.