Therapists in Forest, Buffalo, NY
![Photo of Danielle M Prester, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60dbbd40-0a0c-4ccb-93b6-b31830cd7aea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I provide a nonjudgmental space for you to relax, share and feel safe. I specialize in supporting individuals in exploring their identities, building confidence, developing healthy relationships and healing from various experiences. My hope is that our time together will be affirming and empowering. My goal is to provide the tools for you to create the life you desire and deserve.
Hello! I provide a nonjudgmental space for you to relax, share and feel safe. I specialize in supporting individuals in exploring their identities, building confidence, developing healthy relationships and healing from various experiences. My hope is that our time together will be affirming and empowering. My goal is to provide the tools for you to create the life you desire and deserve.
![Photo of Danielle Matias, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a96a53-f51e-493d-9e11-cad335019e9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
![Photo of Kristi Sokol, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b11ff197-9808-4e5f-96fb-e6cdb1ab3183/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristi Sokol
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, Buffalo, NY 14222 (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist specializing in women's issues, I strive to foster a safe and supportive environment for women to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I help navigate life transitions, tackle analysis paralysis, and explore the challenges of relationships and personal growth.
As a licensed therapist specializing in women's issues, I strive to foster a safe and supportive environment for women to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I help navigate life transitions, tackle analysis paralysis, and explore the challenges of relationships and personal growth.
![Photo of Jennifer Rook, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc513b39-343b-4298-96b4-bccdfdacba09/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help Women who are struggling with Anxiety and Maternal Mental Health issues overcome these obstacles. Anxiety, anger, unexpected fertility issues, pregnancy complications and post partum struggles make the journey of Motherhood even more difficult. Stressful days and sleepless nights give way to feelings of Depression, Anxiety and frustration. For many women, this is the unwanted reality they are faced with.
I help Women who are struggling with Anxiety and Maternal Mental Health issues overcome these obstacles. Anxiety, anger, unexpected fertility issues, pregnancy complications and post partum struggles make the journey of Motherhood even more difficult. Stressful days and sleepless nights give way to feelings of Depression, Anxiety and frustration. For many women, this is the unwanted reality they are faced with.
![Photo of Barbara Christman, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d36955e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Christman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Forest, Buffalo, NY 14222
I work with individuals and couples of all ages and backgrounds in therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, families and adults who are experiencing challenges in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, illness, grief and loss, and relationship and family problems. I provide treatment of self- esteem, stress, sexual identify and women's issues. I also provide cognitive, behavioral and supportive insight-oriented therapy. I work to create an environment that is at your pace and focused on creating a "safe space" for you. I look forward to speaking with you and hope to help you reach your fullest potential.
I work with individuals and couples of all ages and backgrounds in therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, families and adults who are experiencing challenges in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, illness, grief and loss, and relationship and family problems. I provide treatment of self- esteem, stress, sexual identify and women's issues. I also provide cognitive, behavioral and supportive insight-oriented therapy. I work to create an environment that is at your pace and focused on creating a "safe space" for you. I look forward to speaking with you and hope to help you reach your fullest potential.
![Photo of Caitlyn Kitts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c096db7c-c8ff-4f71-bcb1-73ea973e651e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlyn Kitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, Buffalo, NY 14222 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I understand that taking the first step toward therapy can be challenging, but it's a courageous move toward personal growth and change. My commitment is to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy, and respect, where you can feel heard and seen. In our work together, I emphasize a collaborative and client-centered approach. I believe that people are masters of their own lives. I value the notion that every person is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet your specific needs.
I understand that taking the first step toward therapy can be challenging, but it's a courageous move toward personal growth and change. My commitment is to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy, and respect, where you can feel heard and seen. In our work together, I emphasize a collaborative and client-centered approach. I believe that people are masters of their own lives. I value the notion that every person is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet your specific needs.
![Photo of Hidetoshi Hama - Kokoro Psychology, PLLC - Drs. LaLonde & Hama, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bcafd48-b29b-46c1-b643-6bc7c41e8a3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kokoro Psychology, PLLC - Drs. LaLonde & Hama
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest, Buffalo, NY 14213 (Online Only)
We specialize in Interpersonal Therapy, Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, ASD, College and Work Adjustments, identity-related (race, sexual) concerns, and emotion-focused work. As we navigate the complex landscapes of our hearts and relationships, our clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, such as feeling lost, isolated, or stuck, or overwhelming sense of pressure. Some might be recently diagnosed with ADHD and would not know quite where to begin. Kokoro’s compassionate attention and care seek to provide our clients a safe space to reflect, explore, and invest in themselves and relationships. We're here for you and your dreams.
We specialize in Interpersonal Therapy, Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, ASD, College and Work Adjustments, identity-related (race, sexual) concerns, and emotion-focused work. As we navigate the complex landscapes of our hearts and relationships, our clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, such as feeling lost, isolated, or stuck, or overwhelming sense of pressure. Some might be recently diagnosed with ADHD and would not know quite where to begin. Kokoro’s compassionate attention and care seek to provide our clients a safe space to reflect, explore, and invest in themselves and relationships. We're here for you and your dreams.
![Photo of Elisabeth Burn, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2294cfb3-a60c-463d-bf3b-3ba214419178/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting new clients. Elisabeth Burn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of New York. Are you currently feeling anxious, depressed or even stuck? I specialize in supporting individuals and couples in understanding their stories. I hope that I can be supportive to you in identifying the pieces of your story that have brought you to therapy. In doing so, we can work together to uncover patterns that might be keeping you from living the life you desire. Together we can find ways to unlock these past patterns and discover new pathways to promote a better relationship with yourself and with others.
I am currently accepting new clients. Elisabeth Burn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of New York. Are you currently feeling anxious, depressed or even stuck? I specialize in supporting individuals and couples in understanding their stories. I hope that I can be supportive to you in identifying the pieces of your story that have brought you to therapy. In doing so, we can work together to uncover patterns that might be keeping you from living the life you desire. Together we can find ways to unlock these past patterns and discover new pathways to promote a better relationship with yourself and with others.
![Photo of Carol Conklin - City Gate Life Recovery Center, Inc, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99a32f68-0b87-45a4-8052-f207d2f0f5aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
City Gate Life Recovery Center, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, Buffalo, NY 14222
Not accepting new clients
City Gate Life Recovery Center is a private agency with several therapists on staff. We deal primarily in relationship issues, substance/alcohol dependence and sexual addiction. At City Gate, men and women are guided through the stages of change, and can heal from past trauma. Evidence-based practice is utilized in a welcoming, confidential environment. If interested in pursuing your recovery and healing journey, please complete intake questionnaire at citygatelrc.com
City Gate Life Recovery Center is a private agency with several therapists on staff. We deal primarily in relationship issues, substance/alcohol dependence and sexual addiction. At City Gate, men and women are guided through the stages of change, and can heal from past trauma. Evidence-based practice is utilized in a welcoming, confidential environment. If interested in pursuing your recovery and healing journey, please complete intake questionnaire at citygatelrc.com
![Photo of Stephanie Pastore, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cb51fcc-57ba-4750-92d1-775fc855f835/1/320x400.jpeg)
There’s too many things in life that we simply cannot control. This can cause a great deal of stress and make life seem unmanageable. I am here to help you find ways to navigate these challenges by increasing self-awareness, understanding and finding a way to heal. I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with over 7 years of experience in providing counseling services. My approach to therapy is client-centered, focusing on creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges.
There’s too many things in life that we simply cannot control. This can cause a great deal of stress and make life seem unmanageable. I am here to help you find ways to navigate these challenges by increasing self-awareness, understanding and finding a way to heal. I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with over 7 years of experience in providing counseling services. My approach to therapy is client-centered, focusing on creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges.
![Photo of Erin Smith, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acfe2b38-e5b0-4096-8e47-c0fd759521a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am licensed in New York with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are in control of your story and that you have many strengths that will help you in overcoming your challenges. We can work together through cognitive behavioral therapy with an eclectic approach. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
I am licensed in New York with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are in control of your story and that you have many strengths that will help you in overcoming your challenges. We can work together through cognitive behavioral therapy with an eclectic approach. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Online Therapists
![Photo of Dr. Mason Weber - Mason Weber, Ph.D., MSW, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f2e9df8-f23e-4173-ac18-ba7eb7f1b895/1/320x400.png)
Mason Weber, Ph.D.
MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14203 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that our life and cultural experiences, especially our earliest ones, are fundamental in shaping the way we view ourselves and others. It is essential to understand my client's cultural identity (i.e., race, gender, gender identity, sexuality, class) and how it has shaped their development. Often negative life experiences can create problematic ways of coping and a skewed perception of who we are in the world. This can lead to a variety of issues related to anxiety, depression, shame, rejection, stress, relationship issues, identity development, grief/loss, and sexual intimacy.
I believe that our life and cultural experiences, especially our earliest ones, are fundamental in shaping the way we view ourselves and others. It is essential to understand my client's cultural identity (i.e., race, gender, gender identity, sexuality, class) and how it has shaped their development. Often negative life experiences can create problematic ways of coping and a skewed perception of who we are in the world. This can lead to a variety of issues related to anxiety, depression, shame, rejection, stress, relationship issues, identity development, grief/loss, and sexual intimacy.
![Photo of Samantha Stefaniak, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1a34a76-e8d6-4bf7-8835-cb620803af2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clients often seek my support when feeling "stuck" and overwhelmed. I empower them to break free from these patterns through strategic short-term goals and long-term healing solutions. I specialize in helping clients overcome anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenthood difficulties, and childhood trauma. I am a practicing Catholic Christian and offer therapy from the Christian worldview for those who seek it, but this is not exclusive. I help people integrate mental, physical, and spiritual wellness in general, no matter what those mean to you. Clients teach me as much as I teach them!
Clients often seek my support when feeling "stuck" and overwhelmed. I empower them to break free from these patterns through strategic short-term goals and long-term healing solutions. I specialize in helping clients overcome anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenthood difficulties, and childhood trauma. I am a practicing Catholic Christian and offer therapy from the Christian worldview for those who seek it, but this is not exclusive. I help people integrate mental, physical, and spiritual wellness in general, no matter what those mean to you. Clients teach me as much as I teach them!
![Photo of Kelly Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/917584f7-68d3-468b-bce6-b3cc7ae6cf25/2/320x400.jpeg)
First of all, I recognize that reaching out for help can be challenging for some and I applaud and appreciate people who can reach out for help when they need it. I think everyone is on some sort of wellness journey and I feel honored to be a part of that with my clients.
First of all, I recognize that reaching out for help can be challenging for some and I applaud and appreciate people who can reach out for help when they need it. I think everyone is on some sort of wellness journey and I feel honored to be a part of that with my clients.
![Photo of Samantha Kleinman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57e41a3e-e4af-4361-9b5d-e36cbd3a0ff8/2/320x400.png)
Samantha Kleinman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14204 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Samantha Kleinman and I have been a clinical social worker for more than 25 years. I have a dynamic and eclectic approach to therapy. It is important to be able to utilize multiple areas of practice to appropriately meet a client's needs. My specialties include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and short-term solution-focused therapy. My therapeutic approach is person-centered therapy. The most common therapeutic techniques I implement are cognitive behavioral therapy along with motivational interviewing.
Hi, my name is Samantha Kleinman and I have been a clinical social worker for more than 25 years. I have a dynamic and eclectic approach to therapy. It is important to be able to utilize multiple areas of practice to appropriately meet a client's needs. My specialties include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and short-term solution-focused therapy. My therapeutic approach is person-centered therapy. The most common therapeutic techniques I implement are cognitive behavioral therapy along with motivational interviewing.
![Photo of Nicole Jordan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30551944-4380-45a0-a0a4-89a009ce41b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Nicole Jordan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in a variety of diverse populations, which have included, Families, individuals, criminal background (juvenile and adult), and bariatric clients. My approach to therapy is a collaboration based on individualized solutions. The clients I work with may typically be dealing with anxiety which is interfering with daily life: parents and caregivers of children of all ages; individuals dealing with life cycle changes; individuals dealing with life stressors such as relationships, work, or demanding responsibilities;
My name is Nicole Jordan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in a variety of diverse populations, which have included, Families, individuals, criminal background (juvenile and adult), and bariatric clients. My approach to therapy is a collaboration based on individualized solutions. The clients I work with may typically be dealing with anxiety which is interfering with daily life: parents and caregivers of children of all ages; individuals dealing with life cycle changes; individuals dealing with life stressors such as relationships, work, or demanding responsibilities;
![Photo of Lisa Lutz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bca3702-2112-4493-8b80-a4065cd003bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you and your partner struggle to communicate with each other? Do you find yourself wishing that your partner truly heard you? Relationship therapy may provide the answers you seek. I offer an environment that is supportive to recovering the relationship that you and your partner desire. My goal is to work with you in a way that feels respectful, challenging and nurturing. I already believe that you have what it takes to bring positive change to your relationship.
Do you and your partner struggle to communicate with each other? Do you find yourself wishing that your partner truly heard you? Relationship therapy may provide the answers you seek. I offer an environment that is supportive to recovering the relationship that you and your partner desire. My goal is to work with you in a way that feels respectful, challenging and nurturing. I already believe that you have what it takes to bring positive change to your relationship.
![Photo of Atisha Bhuiyan, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17ad4b12-6da3-41b8-89e9-261c43ba9c21/1/320x400.jpeg)
I feel therapy is a process between the therapist and client to explore and understand what the client is experiencing, to come up with coping skills that best fits them and their circumstances. I feel therapy should also be a place where the client is provided a safe, judgement-free, insightful, and empathic environment. Anyone can be capable of healing and building resiliency to a better life.
I feel therapy is a process between the therapist and client to explore and understand what the client is experiencing, to come up with coping skills that best fits them and their circumstances. I feel therapy should also be a place where the client is provided a safe, judgement-free, insightful, and empathic environment. Anyone can be capable of healing and building resiliency to a better life.
![Photo of Allison Gagliardi, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db385991-5672-442e-9617-553e5e64a346/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with feeling stuck? Are you unable to move forward, yet feel uncomfortable standing still? This can be painful, and it is common to experience negative self-talk and self-doubt in these instances. These may be symptoms of your current circumstances, or perhaps these feelings are shaped by previous lived experiences. No matter the cause, we can all use support.
Do you struggle with feeling stuck? Are you unable to move forward, yet feel uncomfortable standing still? This can be painful, and it is common to experience negative self-talk and self-doubt in these instances. These may be symptoms of your current circumstances, or perhaps these feelings are shaped by previous lived experiences. No matter the cause, we can all use support.
![Photo of Julie M Marrero, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c455a455-92de-4cd4-8cf8-75ad2d3f478a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie M Marrero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14220 (Online Only)
Throughout your life, you will continue to evolve as an individual. I can assist by providing a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and actions in order to tap into your true potential.
Throughout your life, you will continue to evolve as an individual. I can assist by providing a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and actions in order to tap into your true potential.
Nearby Searches for Forest, Buffalo
- Albright
- Allentown
- Bryant
- Delaware Park
- Delaware-West Ferry
- Front Park
- Grant Ferry
- Hamlin Park
- Masten Park
- North Park
- Park Meadow
- Parkside
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Forest, Buffalo, NY
10+
Average cost per session
$112
Therapists in Forest, Buffalo, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
91% | Relationship Issues |
82% | Depression |
73% | Women's Issues |
73% | Stress |
73% | Life Transitions |
64% | Family Conflict |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
89% | Aetna |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Forest, Buffalo, NY see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
90% | Female | |
10% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Forest, Buffalo?
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
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.
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.
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.