Therapists in Studio City, CA

Photo of Barbara Schwarz, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Barbara Schwarz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
I understand the importance of relationships and the pain and distress involved in disconnection. I empathize with how destabilizing it can feel during relationship transitions. Whether it be having children, empty nesting, career transitions or even divorces, I can help you foster collaboration and find security.
I understand the importance of relationships and the pain and distress involved in disconnection. I empathize with how destabilizing it can feel during relationship transitions. Whether it be having children, empty nesting, career transitions or even divorces, I can help you foster collaboration and find security.
(818) 602-4459 View (818) 602-4459
Photo of Wendy M. Bauer, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy M. Bauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Most people come to me when problems have become unbearable. They feel alone and stuck and powerless to do anything about it. They come in hoping I can tell them what they need to do to feel better. I provide support and guidance so that my patients do not have to bear their struggles alone. We work collaboratively to understand what is not working and why. We examine past patterns of experience to help us to understand current feelings and behaviors. By addressing the underlying issues that are creating problems, we can create lasting change and transformation.
Most people come to me when problems have become unbearable. They feel alone and stuck and powerless to do anything about it. They come in hoping I can tell them what they need to do to feel better. I provide support and guidance so that my patients do not have to bear their struggles alone. We work collaboratively to understand what is not working and why. We examine past patterns of experience to help us to understand current feelings and behaviors. By addressing the underlying issues that are creating problems, we can create lasting change and transformation.
(323) 244-2996 View (323) 244-2996
Photo of Cheri Townsend, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheri Townsend
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Are you living a healthy and satisfied life? We sometimes get stuck in the same patterns that may result in poor decision-making, painful feelings, depressed mood, anxious mood, or unhealthy relationships. There are things you can do to gain self-awareness about your behavior and make positive changes. I can assist you as you take steps towards improving your relationship with others or make changes that may promote a more satisfying life. It is time to move towards your full potential and I can help you. Call me.
Are you living a healthy and satisfied life? We sometimes get stuck in the same patterns that may result in poor decision-making, painful feelings, depressed mood, anxious mood, or unhealthy relationships. There are things you can do to gain self-awareness about your behavior and make positive changes. I can assist you as you take steps towards improving your relationship with others or make changes that may promote a more satisfying life. It is time to move towards your full potential and I can help you. Call me.
(818) 860-7258 View (818) 860-7258
Photo of Lauren Duerson, MEd, LPCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Lauren Duerson
Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to navigate each day, weighed down by exhaustion, persistent low mood, excessive worry, or a state of hypervigilance? Have you battled anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use challenges, or struggled with your self-esteem? I want to assure you that you're not alone in your journey. I firmly believe that one of life's most courageous acts is to embark on a path of self-discovery, to gain insight into your personal journey, and to open the door to healing and growth. A central theme running through the modalities I utilize is mindfulness, self-compassion, and heightened awareness of both the body and emotions
Are you struggling to navigate each day, weighed down by exhaustion, persistent low mood, excessive worry, or a state of hypervigilance? Have you battled anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use challenges, or struggled with your self-esteem? I want to assure you that you're not alone in your journey. I firmly believe that one of life's most courageous acts is to embark on a path of self-discovery, to gain insight into your personal journey, and to open the door to healing and growth. A central theme running through the modalities I utilize is mindfulness, self-compassion, and heightened awareness of both the body and emotions
(310) 362-9418 View (310) 362-9418
Photo of Elisheva (Ellie) Dorfman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisheva (Ellie) Dorfman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Do you (or your child) struggle with food? Do you cycle through diet after diet and find yourself unable to stick to any? Do you binge eat? Are you afraid of food? Do you hate your body or wish it looked different? Do food and body issues take up a lot of your energy? Have you (or your child) been diagnosed with an eating disorder and you don't know where to turn?
Do you (or your child) struggle with food? Do you cycle through diet after diet and find yourself unable to stick to any? Do you binge eat? Are you afraid of food? Do you hate your body or wish it looked different? Do food and body issues take up a lot of your energy? Have you (or your child) been diagnosed with an eating disorder and you don't know where to turn?
(323) 892-8751 View (323) 892-8751
Photo of Nina Jordan Taubenfeld, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nina Jordan Taubenfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Are you a creative struggling with substance use issues? I have experience working with people in the arts, addiction, substance use disorder, 12-step, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues. I also specialize in supporting women who have been diagnosed with a BRCA gene mutation. Whether you're facing decisions about preventive measures, coping with the stress of regular screenings, or managing the impact on your personal and professional life, I am here to help you find clarity, resilience, and balance.
Are you a creative struggling with substance use issues? I have experience working with people in the arts, addiction, substance use disorder, 12-step, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues. I also specialize in supporting women who have been diagnosed with a BRCA gene mutation. Whether you're facing decisions about preventive measures, coping with the stress of regular screenings, or managing the impact on your personal and professional life, I am here to help you find clarity, resilience, and balance.
(747) 837-5423 View (747) 837-5423
Photo of Lisa Jonsson, PsyD, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Jonsson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about your work, home, or relationships? Are you considering discussing other stressors? Taking the first step to obtaining support can feel challenging. No matter what the reason, if you have decided to seek support, then I can work with you through a problem-solving approach. With a foundation of trust, together we can work on formulating goals and explore new solutions for the changes that you want. Together, we can also build a "joy list" to help maintain the balance that you need to recharge and have a happy, healthy life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about your work, home, or relationships? Are you considering discussing other stressors? Taking the first step to obtaining support can feel challenging. No matter what the reason, if you have decided to seek support, then I can work with you through a problem-solving approach. With a foundation of trust, together we can work on formulating goals and explore new solutions for the changes that you want. Together, we can also build a "joy list" to help maintain the balance that you need to recharge and have a happy, healthy life.
(323) 859-6315 View (323) 859-6315
Photo of Lori (Lo) LeChien, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lori (Lo) LeChien
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Welcome to a compassionate and creative space where your journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery is fully supported. I am a forward-thinking therapist passionate about working with adults, children, teens, couples, and families who are eager to make meaningful changes in their lives. Whether you’re navigating your identity, overcoming addiction or codependency, struggling with anxiety or depression, or healing from childhood or family trauma, you are not alone. Together, we can work to move beyond feelings of being stuck or hurt, break free from harmful patterns, and cultivate healthy, sustainable relationships.
Welcome to a compassionate and creative space where your journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery is fully supported. I am a forward-thinking therapist passionate about working with adults, children, teens, couples, and families who are eager to make meaningful changes in their lives. Whether you’re navigating your identity, overcoming addiction or codependency, struggling with anxiety or depression, or healing from childhood or family trauma, you are not alone. Together, we can work to move beyond feelings of being stuck or hurt, break free from harmful patterns, and cultivate healthy, sustainable relationships.
(323) 402-5873 View (323) 402-5873
Photo of Anjannette Padilla Ryan - Anjannette Padilla Ryan, PhD, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Anjannette Padilla Ryan, PhD
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
My clinical and research experience is largely based on mindfulness as a framework for psychotherapy. I have extensive experience working with anxiety and depression in adults, those suffering from chronic illness or pain, relationship and identity conflict, and those individuals overwhelmed with emotion or distant from their experience. My practice is goal oriented. I work intensely with clients to make changes in their personal lives, changes that they and others close to them can easily observe and acknowledge.
My clinical and research experience is largely based on mindfulness as a framework for psychotherapy. I have extensive experience working with anxiety and depression in adults, those suffering from chronic illness or pain, relationship and identity conflict, and those individuals overwhelmed with emotion or distant from their experience. My practice is goal oriented. I work intensely with clients to make changes in their personal lives, changes that they and others close to them can easily observe and acknowledge.
(323) 498-1262 View (323) 498-1262
Photo of Kaitlyn Peters, LPCC, Counselor
Kaitlyn Peters
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Taking the step to begin therapy can be pretty overwhelming, especially if you struggle with persistent intrusive thoughts that feel uncomfortable or scary. These unwanted thoughts might make you feel stuck in a difficult cycle of fear and anxiety. In my work, I honor this sensitive and individualized process by meeting you at your own pace while gently encouraging you to examine your thoughts mindfully, experience your feelings openly, and embrace the great unknown. My approach is warm and collaborative, offering space for authentic, human connection in the therapy room.
Taking the step to begin therapy can be pretty overwhelming, especially if you struggle with persistent intrusive thoughts that feel uncomfortable or scary. These unwanted thoughts might make you feel stuck in a difficult cycle of fear and anxiety. In my work, I honor this sensitive and individualized process by meeting you at your own pace while gently encouraging you to examine your thoughts mindfully, experience your feelings openly, and embrace the great unknown. My approach is warm and collaborative, offering space for authentic, human connection in the therapy room.
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Photo of Evelyn Gloria Ball, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evelyn Gloria Ball
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
When you are experiencing heightened stress, anxiety, grief, self-judgment, loneliness, or a sense of hopelessness, it's hard to know where to turn. These are symptoms that develop when internal parts are left unknown or are misunderstood. You are not alone. It is natural to feel confused, insecure, and overwhelmed when you can't see your way out. Help is available, and you have taken the first step. I am professionally trained in Internal Family Systems, Level 2. I can help you build an internal relationship that heals from within.
When you are experiencing heightened stress, anxiety, grief, self-judgment, loneliness, or a sense of hopelessness, it's hard to know where to turn. These are symptoms that develop when internal parts are left unknown or are misunderstood. You are not alone. It is natural to feel confused, insecure, and overwhelmed when you can't see your way out. Help is available, and you have taken the first step. I am professionally trained in Internal Family Systems, Level 2. I can help you build an internal relationship that heals from within.
(818) 423-4377 View (818) 423-4377
Photo of Sharon Furman, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Sharon Furman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
I work with adults of all ages, and couples. I have seen individuals who feel "something" is missing in their lives and are looking to find their path and passion in life. In both long-term and short-term therapy, we work connecting past issues when relevant to the present to understand why we make the choices we do. We also work to build tools to develop the life one wants to live.
I work with adults of all ages, and couples. I have seen individuals who feel "something" is missing in their lives and are looking to find their path and passion in life. In both long-term and short-term therapy, we work connecting past issues when relevant to the present to understand why we make the choices we do. We also work to build tools to develop the life one wants to live.
(310) 773-0282 View (310) 773-0282
Photo of Claudia de Garmo, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia de Garmo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, I have experienced great fulfillment in helping my clients work through issues of addiction, depression; grief and loss; anxiety; social discomfort; relationship conflict/divorce; loneliness; low self esteem; mid-life crises; and fear of change. Helping women and men who struggle with love addiction and co-dependence is an area of special interest. My goal is to help my clients find ways to live a more fulfilling life while strengthening their ability to withstand life's inherent challenges.
As a therapist, I have experienced great fulfillment in helping my clients work through issues of addiction, depression; grief and loss; anxiety; social discomfort; relationship conflict/divorce; loneliness; low self esteem; mid-life crises; and fear of change. Helping women and men who struggle with love addiction and co-dependence is an area of special interest. My goal is to help my clients find ways to live a more fulfilling life while strengthening their ability to withstand life's inherent challenges.
(310) 776-6167 View (310) 776-6167
Photo of Heidi Kim, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Let's be real - life often throws the hardest curveballs, which leave us feeling damaged, lost, and fearful of how to recover or return to "how things used to be." Too often, we feel unheard and alone in our darkness. What do you do when you feel so anxious and high-strung that it’s hard to breathe? Who will understand when you don’t have the energy to get out of bed, or you avoid certain places because it reminds you of a terrible memory?
Let's be real - life often throws the hardest curveballs, which leave us feeling damaged, lost, and fearful of how to recover or return to "how things used to be." Too often, we feel unheard and alone in our darkness. What do you do when you feel so anxious and high-strung that it’s hard to breathe? Who will understand when you don’t have the energy to get out of bed, or you avoid certain places because it reminds you of a terrible memory?
(323) 940-5184 View (323) 940-5184
Photo of Drew Merrill, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Drew Merrill
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Each person has walked a unique path throughout their life. I believe it is important to include these life differences in therapy, tailoring the therapeutic process to each individual’s needs. I also believe that you have the strength within you to be successful in reaching your goals. Together, we can further develop your own strengths as well as learn new skills in order to better manage problems you are currently facing.
Each person has walked a unique path throughout their life. I believe it is important to include these life differences in therapy, tailoring the therapeutic process to each individual’s needs. I also believe that you have the strength within you to be successful in reaching your goals. Together, we can further develop your own strengths as well as learn new skills in order to better manage problems you are currently facing.
(323) 694-7020 View (323) 694-7020
Photo of Elaine Oh, LMFT, ATR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Oh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I believe everyone has unique stories that need to be heard. As I listen with curiosity and support, individuals freely explore their stories, become more open to delving into meanings, and further empowered to define their sense of self that needed to be received. In my work with clients, I integrate evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). As a registered art therapist, I am also aware and appreciative of non-verbal expression and the benefit of using this creative form of expression.
I believe everyone has unique stories that need to be heard. As I listen with curiosity and support, individuals freely explore their stories, become more open to delving into meanings, and further empowered to define their sense of self that needed to be received. In my work with clients, I integrate evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). As a registered art therapist, I am also aware and appreciative of non-verbal expression and the benefit of using this creative form of expression.
(323) 576-4643 View (323) 576-4643
Photo of Laurie Hughes, MACLP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laurie Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MACLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Life’s transitions sometimes feel like roadblocks, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I work with adult individuals and couples to address the challenges that come with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, parenting, and healing from trauma. Together, we’ll face these obstacles and move toward positive change. My approach blends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to improve coping skills and shift negative thought patterns, with psychodynamic techniques for deeper exploration. This combination offers tools that will help you quickly while unearthing the roots of persistent issues to guide you toward lasting change.
Life’s transitions sometimes feel like roadblocks, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I work with adult individuals and couples to address the challenges that come with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, parenting, and healing from trauma. Together, we’ll face these obstacles and move toward positive change. My approach blends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to improve coping skills and shift negative thought patterns, with psychodynamic techniques for deeper exploration. This combination offers tools that will help you quickly while unearthing the roots of persistent issues to guide you toward lasting change.
(323) 827-7889 View (323) 827-7889
Photo of Jane H. Kwon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jane H. Kwon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
In today's fast-paced world, mental and emotional wellness is crucial for thriving. Let's embark on a journey of growth and healing together, moving toward the life you desire. We'll identify and transform unhelpful patterns, break free from distorted thoughts, and create a new path. In our sessions, expect a safe, non-judgmental space where your voice is heard and valued. My approach includes trauma-informed, client-centered therapy, CBT, IFS, narrative, solution-focused, and existential therapy to ensure optimal results.
In today's fast-paced world, mental and emotional wellness is crucial for thriving. Let's embark on a journey of growth and healing together, moving toward the life you desire. We'll identify and transform unhelpful patterns, break free from distorted thoughts, and create a new path. In our sessions, expect a safe, non-judgmental space where your voice is heard and valued. My approach includes trauma-informed, client-centered therapy, CBT, IFS, narrative, solution-focused, and existential therapy to ensure optimal results.
(818) 975-2285 View (818) 975-2285
Photo of Anthony J DiMaggio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anthony J DiMaggio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped in a cycle of anxiety, negative thoughts, and unfulfillment? Are you searching for relief, confidence, and a sense of purpose? Do you often compare yourself to others, which leaves you feeling behind and overwhelmed? Would you like to break free from these patterns, gain inner peace, and build resilience? Could you benefit from support in managing anxiety, cultivating self-compassion, and transforming your relationship with yourself? Are you seeking therapy to become the best version of yourself while embracing a fulfilling life with confidence and self-respect?
Do you feel trapped in a cycle of anxiety, negative thoughts, and unfulfillment? Are you searching for relief, confidence, and a sense of purpose? Do you often compare yourself to others, which leaves you feeling behind and overwhelmed? Would you like to break free from these patterns, gain inner peace, and build resilience? Could you benefit from support in managing anxiety, cultivating self-compassion, and transforming your relationship with yourself? Are you seeking therapy to become the best version of yourself while embracing a fulfilling life with confidence and self-respect?
(424) 373-8074 View (424) 373-8074
Photo of Iliyana Yonova, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Iliyana Yonova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist holding a Master’s degree in Clinical psychology with an emphasis on LGBTQ affirmative psychotherapy. My areas of work include: addiction, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, self-esteem. I utilize a range of contemporary psychological theories such as psychodynamic, humanistic, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My goal is to assist clients to connect to their authentic selves, overcome negative thinking, unhealthy behaviors, and reinforce positive self-talk.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist holding a Master’s degree in Clinical psychology with an emphasis on LGBTQ affirmative psychotherapy. My areas of work include: addiction, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, self-esteem. I utilize a range of contemporary psychological theories such as psychodynamic, humanistic, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My goal is to assist clients to connect to their authentic selves, overcome negative thinking, unhealthy behaviors, and reinforce positive self-talk.
(323) 366-4117 View (323) 366-4117
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Studio City, CA

400+

Average cost per session

$194

Therapists in Studio City, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
89% Relationship Issues
82% Self Esteem
71% Grief
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

55% Aetna
46% Cigna and Evernorth
41% Optum

How Therapists in Studio City, CA see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Studio City?

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.