Therapists in Fayetteville, NC

Photo of Nicole Marie Sinnigen, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Nicole Marie Sinnigen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28306  (Online Only)
I work most frequently with those who may be experiencing anxiety, work stress/changes, relationship issues, divorce, grief and loss, traumatic experiences, military lifestyle challenges, parenting/co-parenting struggles, or women's issues. These situations can make one feel anxious, sad, overwhelmed, angry, stressed, hopeless, or alone, making everyday life tasks even harder. It's not a sign of weakness to ask for help and I look forward to the opportunity to help you feel more like yourself again.
I work most frequently with those who may be experiencing anxiety, work stress/changes, relationship issues, divorce, grief and loss, traumatic experiences, military lifestyle challenges, parenting/co-parenting struggles, or women's issues. These situations can make one feel anxious, sad, overwhelmed, angry, stressed, hopeless, or alone, making everyday life tasks even harder. It's not a sign of weakness to ask for help and I look forward to the opportunity to help you feel more like yourself again.
(910) 569-9498 View (910) 569-9498
Photo of Jeffrey Smith - Playful Minds Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC
Playful Minds Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
We are here to help you navigate your feelings, whether they be depression, anxiety, trauma, fear, or any other emotion. Our office is small but we have three therapists, one male and two females. We have a certified play therapist who sees children as young as 3, and a registered trauma specialist who also sees children as young as 3. We offer not therapy, but also supervised visitation, supervised parental hand-offs, and supervised phone calls.
We are here to help you navigate your feelings, whether they be depression, anxiety, trauma, fear, or any other emotion. Our office is small but we have three therapists, one male and two females. We have a certified play therapist who sees children as young as 3, and a registered trauma specialist who also sees children as young as 3. We offer not therapy, but also supervised visitation, supervised parental hand-offs, and supervised phone calls.
(910) 631-6101 View (910) 631-6101
Photo of Marina Johnson, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Life can be challenging at times and healthy coping skills are vital to being able to navigate through life and manage daily issues and problems effectively. Many people see seeking therapy as an admission of weakness. I believe that one of the bravest things someone can do is realize that they cannot face everything alone and to ask for help. Therapy doesn't have to be always a painful experience. If you want to achieve personal growth and healing, then it is time to call me for help. My ideal client is someone who is actively seeking to get healthy and willing to put in the effort necessary to try and accomplish it.
Life can be challenging at times and healthy coping skills are vital to being able to navigate through life and manage daily issues and problems effectively. Many people see seeking therapy as an admission of weakness. I believe that one of the bravest things someone can do is realize that they cannot face everything alone and to ask for help. Therapy doesn't have to be always a painful experience. If you want to achieve personal growth and healing, then it is time to call me for help. My ideal client is someone who is actively seeking to get healthy and willing to put in the effort necessary to try and accomplish it.
(910) 407-0581 View (910) 407-0581
Photo of Kimberly (Kim) Cook, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly (Kim) Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28306
Kim works with families, couples, individuals, groups on many issues, including relationships, mental health, spiritual growth, behavioral problems, trauma, parenting, adoption/foster care, play therapy & crisis response. She has 20+ yrs experience helping children, teens, adults, professionals, ministers, & leadership in non-profit organizations. Univ of MD, School of Social Work; Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Messiah College; Approved Supervisor for Clinical /Licensure Supervision (SW'ers). Kim is on faculty at Covenant College & Dordt University teaching social work & counseling.
Kim works with families, couples, individuals, groups on many issues, including relationships, mental health, spiritual growth, behavioral problems, trauma, parenting, adoption/foster care, play therapy & crisis response. She has 20+ yrs experience helping children, teens, adults, professionals, ministers, & leadership in non-profit organizations. Univ of MD, School of Social Work; Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Messiah College; Approved Supervisor for Clinical /Licensure Supervision (SW'ers). Kim is on faculty at Covenant College & Dordt University teaching social work & counseling.
(910) 665-8396 x102 View (910) 665-8396 x102
Photo of Ellen Jones McMillian - T&T Helping Hands, LLC, MSW, LCSW-A, CSW/RI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
T&T Helping Hands, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A, CSW/RI
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28306
The ideal client is someone who is willing and wants to work in therapy and is open to change. The client is flexible willing to try new things and adapt to change. The client is committed to making therapy a priority in their life.
The ideal client is someone who is willing and wants to work in therapy and is open to change. The client is flexible willing to try new things and adapt to change. The client is committed to making therapy a priority in their life.
(910) 714-9256 View (910) 714-9256
Photo of Jenny Massol, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Massol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
If you're looking for guidance and support with challenging situations I can assist you to achieve your goals. By using a variety of techniques that will help you change negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
If you're looking for guidance and support with challenging situations I can assist you to achieve your goals. By using a variety of techniques that will help you change negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(910) 370-1028 View (910) 370-1028
Photo of Karen Smith, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303  (Online Only)
As a clinician, I embrace a strength-based approach and I borrow from many different cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy theories. I believe that building a positive therapeutic relationship is of great importance in the therapeutic process and that our time together should feel supportive and safe. I utilize dialogue, psychoeducation, relaxation/ mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts and positive decision making.
As a clinician, I embrace a strength-based approach and I borrow from many different cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy theories. I believe that building a positive therapeutic relationship is of great importance in the therapeutic process and that our time together should feel supportive and safe. I utilize dialogue, psychoeducation, relaxation/ mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts and positive decision making.
(910) 387-0623 View (910) 387-0623
Photo of Kari Whirry, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Whirry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305  (Online Only)
As a clinical social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment that helps you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself. I have a casual approach to therapy and believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I want to work collaboratively, combining our shared expertise to help you become the most healthy version of yourself.
As a clinical social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment that helps you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself. I have a casual approach to therapy and believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I want to work collaboratively, combining our shared expertise to help you become the most healthy version of yourself.
(910) 877-8990 View (910) 877-8990
Photo of Crystal DePietro, MSW, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal DePietro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Whether you are working within a diagnosis, processing a situation, confronting a new normal, or planning for change, Cypress Counseling Center wants to know how you’re really doing. Our therapists are committed to helping you work through your current circumstances.
Whether you are working within a diagnosis, processing a situation, confronting a new normal, or planning for change, Cypress Counseling Center wants to know how you’re really doing. Our therapists are committed to helping you work through your current circumstances.
(910) 229-3888 View (910) 229-3888
Photo of Kristin Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28311
Hello! It's great to meet you! My name is Kristin Hammond, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, and some adolescence. I work with many issues, including anxiety, health anxiety, panic, depression, life stressors, family dysfunction, relationship issues, self-esteem, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I mainly draw from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Holistic, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Supportive therapies. I believe one of the biggest keys to success in treatment is having a connection with your therapist.
Hello! It's great to meet you! My name is Kristin Hammond, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, and some adolescence. I work with many issues, including anxiety, health anxiety, panic, depression, life stressors, family dysfunction, relationship issues, self-esteem, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I mainly draw from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Holistic, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Supportive therapies. I believe one of the biggest keys to success in treatment is having a connection with your therapist.
(980) 409-2857 View (980) 409-2857
Photo of Kelly Jo Hart, LCMHC-S
Kelly Jo Hart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28306  (Online Only)
Are you in the place in your life where you just feel done? You feel alone. Every relationship ends in disaster and heartbreak. Whether it is a romantic relationship or a friendship you just seem to pick the wrong people. You often feel disposable and rejected because all the people you want end up leaving you. You hear about people that have found their people and you wonder when will it be your day. When will you find the right relationships that bring you the quality relationships you dream of having. You feel too weak and paralyzed to try again only to find more heartbreak.
Are you in the place in your life where you just feel done? You feel alone. Every relationship ends in disaster and heartbreak. Whether it is a romantic relationship or a friendship you just seem to pick the wrong people. You often feel disposable and rejected because all the people you want end up leaving you. You hear about people that have found their people and you wonder when will it be your day. When will you find the right relationships that bring you the quality relationships you dream of having. You feel too weak and paralyzed to try again only to find more heartbreak.
(910) 335-2652 View (910) 335-2652
Photo of Leah Diaz, MA, LCMHC, Trauma, 500ERYT, YACEP, Counselor
Leah Diaz
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, Trauma, 500ERYT, YACEP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28312
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
(910) 909-4135 View (910) 909-4135
Photo of Diona Patrice Covington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diona Patrice Covington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my purpose is to guide individuals on a transformative journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery. I believe that everyone possesses the innate strength and resilience to overcome life's challenges, and my role is to empower my clients to tap into their own potential.
As a therapist, my purpose is to guide individuals on a transformative journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery. I believe that everyone possesses the innate strength and resilience to overcome life's challenges, and my role is to empower my clients to tap into their own potential.
(910) 857-5102 View (910) 857-5102
Photo of Janna Shelley Williams, MSW, LCSW-A, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janna Shelley Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314  (Online Only)
There are times in life when the stressors and pressures pile on and it happens to everyone. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use, or relationship problems, everyone needs a little help from time to time. I want to be that source of help for you by using evidence-based practice methods of therapy. Through sound therapy modalities, you and I work together to help you reach your goals and strive to be your best. Therapy can be one of the greatest and most worthwhile journeys within yourself and it can truly transform you to become the best version of you!
There are times in life when the stressors and pressures pile on and it happens to everyone. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use, or relationship problems, everyone needs a little help from time to time. I want to be that source of help for you by using evidence-based practice methods of therapy. Through sound therapy modalities, you and I work together to help you reach your goals and strive to be your best. Therapy can be one of the greatest and most worthwhile journeys within yourself and it can truly transform you to become the best version of you!
(910) 841-1990 View (910) 841-1990
Photo of Ione Renee LaFata - DrRenee Online Psychotherapy, PhD, MEd, MA, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
DrRenee Online Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28312  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychotherapist, I wholeheartedly encourage women over 30 to actively consider seeking spiritual counseling. While it is important to acknowledge that each individual's journey is unique. In a world often marked by uncertainty and adversity, spiritual counseling equips women with valuable tools to build resilience and self-empowerment. By tapping into their spiritual resources, women can develop coping strategies, enhance their problem-solving skills, and foster a sense of inner strength. This enables them to overcome obstacles, embrace change, and lead fulfilling lives.
As a licensed psychotherapist, I wholeheartedly encourage women over 30 to actively consider seeking spiritual counseling. While it is important to acknowledge that each individual's journey is unique. In a world often marked by uncertainty and adversity, spiritual counseling equips women with valuable tools to build resilience and self-empowerment. By tapping into their spiritual resources, women can develop coping strategies, enhance their problem-solving skills, and foster a sense of inner strength. This enables them to overcome obstacles, embrace change, and lead fulfilling lives.
(910) 557-8084 View (910) 557-8084
Photo of Jordan Klett, LMSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Klett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28306  (Online Only)
I want to encourage those looking right now. Considering therapy and starting therapy is a huge step and there is hope. I approach each client as an individual, working with their strengths to find real solutions to the issues they are facing. It is important to me to really understand each client and hear them, rather than labeling them. I have work with clients struggling with behavioral concerns and emotional disruptions, stemming from life experiences and trauma. I strive to bring hope and healing to help clients THRIVE.
I want to encourage those looking right now. Considering therapy and starting therapy is a huge step and there is hope. I approach each client as an individual, working with their strengths to find real solutions to the issues they are facing. It is important to me to really understand each client and hear them, rather than labeling them. I have work with clients struggling with behavioral concerns and emotional disruptions, stemming from life experiences and trauma. I strive to bring hope and healing to help clients THRIVE.
(910) 679-9501 View (910) 679-9501
Photo of Denotra J. Winston, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I, NCC
Denotra J. Winston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
We are accepting new clients! We have over 15 years of experience working with families and individuals who have anxiety, depression, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, addictions and substance use concerns. We like to adapt sessions to assist clients in identifying stressors, identify motivations, build support systems, and increase functioning. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship with each individual while striving to create a safe, non -judgmental space to foster the healing.
We are accepting new clients! We have over 15 years of experience working with families and individuals who have anxiety, depression, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, addictions and substance use concerns. We like to adapt sessions to assist clients in identifying stressors, identify motivations, build support systems, and increase functioning. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship with each individual while striving to create a safe, non -judgmental space to foster the healing.
(336) 804-8632 View (336) 804-8632
Photo of Candace Melvin, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Candace Melvin
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28312
Discovering our truth can be difficult and a challenge. At times, we just need some additional support to help us get through daily challenges. Take a moment and think about what you can do to take more control of your situation. By reading this and thinking about what you can do; you have already taken the first step in discovering your truth and starting your journey of healing. My experience as a therapist includes providing services to a diverse population, from children to adults with a range of diagnoses. I have a background in working with individuals who have challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, and grief.
Discovering our truth can be difficult and a challenge. At times, we just need some additional support to help us get through daily challenges. Take a moment and think about what you can do to take more control of your situation. By reading this and thinking about what you can do; you have already taken the first step in discovering your truth and starting your journey of healing. My experience as a therapist includes providing services to a diverse population, from children to adults with a range of diagnoses. I have a background in working with individuals who have challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, and grief.
(910) 463-9540 View (910) 463-9540
Photo of Lynette Davis, LCMHC
Lynette Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28306  (Online Only)
Exploring the stuck places of your life with someone who is nonjudgmental and goal-focused can be a real game changer, moving you forward toward your hopes and dreams. I not only listen, but help you to solve problems. I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and families to reduce mood, relationship conflicts, and parenting concerns. We target specific goals of change and identify steps toward those goals. I use science-based interventions exploring past and current patterns that hold you back from making progress. Most of my clinical experience has been treating depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
Exploring the stuck places of your life with someone who is nonjudgmental and goal-focused can be a real game changer, moving you forward toward your hopes and dreams. I not only listen, but help you to solve problems. I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and families to reduce mood, relationship conflicts, and parenting concerns. We target specific goals of change and identify steps toward those goals. I use science-based interventions exploring past and current patterns that hold you back from making progress. Most of my clinical experience has been treating depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
(910) 387-4393 View (910) 387-4393
Photo of Odyessey Webb, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Odyessey Webb
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
We all can experience a range of emotions, from fear and excitement to exhilaration and anticipation as we navigate the twists and turns of the ride. Whether you or a family member are grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, family-related concerns, or other emotional and psychological obstacles, rest assured that I am here to offer my support. My unwavering commitment to assisting others has always been a driving force in my life. My mission is to address your Behavioral Health and Counseling needs with genuine empathy and steadfast commitment to providing high-quality care.
We all can experience a range of emotions, from fear and excitement to exhilaration and anticipation as we navigate the twists and turns of the ride. Whether you or a family member are grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, family-related concerns, or other emotional and psychological obstacles, rest assured that I am here to offer my support. My unwavering commitment to assisting others has always been a driving force in my life. My mission is to address your Behavioral Health and Counseling needs with genuine empathy and steadfast commitment to providing high-quality care.
(910) 485-6336 View (910) 485-6336
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fayetteville, NC

400+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Fayetteville, NC who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
72% Coping Skills
69% Self Esteem
67% Stress
66% Relationship Issues
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Fayetteville, NC see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fayetteville?

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.