Therapists in Purcellville, VA

Photo of Tami Nelson, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Tami Nelson
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in anxiety and PTSD treatment for adults, expats, Foreign Service members, and military veterans. I also routinely conduct psychological testing for ADHD, PTSD, and differential diagnosis of other mental health concerns. I believe that a collaborative and empathic approach to psychological care empowers people to create lasting and meaningful change. In this approach, I utilize a combination of evidence-based practice and clinical expertise in order to promote your personal strengths, to enhance your resiliency, and to achieve your goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in anxiety and PTSD treatment for adults, expats, Foreign Service members, and military veterans. I also routinely conduct psychological testing for ADHD, PTSD, and differential diagnosis of other mental health concerns. I believe that a collaborative and empathic approach to psychological care empowers people to create lasting and meaningful change. In this approach, I utilize a combination of evidence-based practice and clinical expertise in order to promote your personal strengths, to enhance your resiliency, and to achieve your goals.
(571) 200-1788 View (571) 200-1788
Photo of Carissa Francis, LCSW, LISW-CP, ICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carissa Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, ICSW
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
Waitlist for new clients. Carissa provides in-person sessions in Purcellville, Virginia and virtual therapy to those residing in West Virginia, Virginia, & Washington, DC. She enjoys working with adolescents, teens, & adults. Carissa uses light humor and warmth to connect with clients and create a safe place for their healing and self-discovery. She is trained in many evidenced-based treatments to empower clients to identify obstacles and build skills to achieve their goals. Modalities used in sessions are determined based on the needs of the individual.
Waitlist for new clients. Carissa provides in-person sessions in Purcellville, Virginia and virtual therapy to those residing in West Virginia, Virginia, & Washington, DC. She enjoys working with adolescents, teens, & adults. Carissa uses light humor and warmth to connect with clients and create a safe place for their healing and self-discovery. She is trained in many evidenced-based treatments to empower clients to identify obstacles and build skills to achieve their goals. Modalities used in sessions are determined based on the needs of the individual.
(540) 889-3487 View (540) 889-3487
Photo of Jessica Jones, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
At times, life doesn't unfold as expected, and we may find ourselves in need of guidance to navigate challenges or break free from feeling stuck. I firmly believe that there's no universal approach to therapy. That's why I draw upon a variety of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, and existential therapy. This flexibility ensures that I can tailor our sessions to best meet your unique needs.
At times, life doesn't unfold as expected, and we may find ourselves in need of guidance to navigate challenges or break free from feeling stuck. I firmly believe that there's no universal approach to therapy. That's why I draw upon a variety of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, and existential therapy. This flexibility ensures that I can tailor our sessions to best meet your unique needs.
(540) 453-8352 View (540) 453-8352
Photo of Debra Babarsky, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Babarsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Purcellville, VA 20132
With decades of experience, I have helped many families, couples and individuals heal from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, etc. by examining their beliefs, feelings, and behaviors; building and strengthening tools and skills; and learning how to create healthy relationships within themselves and with others. The therapeutic benefits of counseling allow you to transform and grow, Counseling opens the door for new possibilities in your life. The positive changes that occur are the outcome of exploring yourself with curiosity, building inner resources, and learning how to make choices that nourish and fulfill you.
With decades of experience, I have helped many families, couples and individuals heal from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, etc. by examining their beliefs, feelings, and behaviors; building and strengthening tools and skills; and learning how to create healthy relationships within themselves and with others. The therapeutic benefits of counseling allow you to transform and grow, Counseling opens the door for new possibilities in your life. The positive changes that occur are the outcome of exploring yourself with curiosity, building inner resources, and learning how to make choices that nourish and fulfill you.
(540) 338-0620 View (540) 338-0620
Photo of Holly Ameen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Ameen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
Holly Ameen is a licensed professional counselor who has 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree at James Madison University in 2001 and Master's degree from Marymount University in 2005. Holly feels confident working with clients who have complex mental health or behavioral challenges. Therapy modalities used in treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and animal assisted therapy.
Holly Ameen is a licensed professional counselor who has 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree at James Madison University in 2001 and Master's degree from Marymount University in 2005. Holly feels confident working with clients who have complex mental health or behavioral challenges. Therapy modalities used in treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and animal assisted therapy.
(540) 698-4879 View (540) 698-4879
Photo of Sophia Gause, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sophia Gause
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
I am passionate about helping others heal and take control of their mental health, whether through processing emotions and experiences, reaching goals, or having a safe space to talk. I use a person-centered approach to therapy as I believe our sessions should be personally tailored to fit your unique needs as an individual. I value providing the best care for my clients, which is why I receive weekly supervision from licensed LPC, Kimberly Van Etten.
I am passionate about helping others heal and take control of their mental health, whether through processing emotions and experiences, reaching goals, or having a safe space to talk. I use a person-centered approach to therapy as I believe our sessions should be personally tailored to fit your unique needs as an individual. I value providing the best care for my clients, which is why I receive weekly supervision from licensed LPC, Kimberly Van Etten.
(540) 515-5513 View (540) 515-5513
Photo of Nancy Paz Welsh, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Paz Welsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132  (Online Only)
Nancy Paz Welsh is a first-generation American of Salvadorian descent who is a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland and Virginia. She is a strong advocate and educator in mental health development and insightfulness, while also normalizing the importance of mental health therapy.
Nancy Paz Welsh is a first-generation American of Salvadorian descent who is a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland and Virginia. She is a strong advocate and educator in mental health development and insightfulness, while also normalizing the importance of mental health therapy.
(540) 779-1079 View (540) 779-1079
Photo of Mary Ann Rapp, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Ann Rapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
Mary Ann earned a Master's in Community Counseling from The George Washington University and has many years experience in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexual Trauma, Women's Issues and Substance Use Disorders. She spent 18 months working for Inova Behavioral Health in Leesburg in 2019 - She is a seasoned therapist who was born and raised in Northern Virginia. Mary Ann loves traveling, gardening, cherishing her two cats and spending time with cherished friends.
Mary Ann earned a Master's in Community Counseling from The George Washington University and has many years experience in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexual Trauma, Women's Issues and Substance Use Disorders. She spent 18 months working for Inova Behavioral Health in Leesburg in 2019 - She is a seasoned therapist who was born and raised in Northern Virginia. Mary Ann loves traveling, gardening, cherishing her two cats and spending time with cherished friends.
(540) 755-3465 View (540) 755-3465
Photo of Tina M Pascua, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina M Pascua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
I specialize in Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I can provide in person, telehealth services in Virginia and telehealth services in WV. Our ideal client at Heartstrings Mended Counseling may be grappling with the challenges of life, striving for fulfilling relationships and seeking emotional well-being. They might be individuals aiming for self-discovery, couples yearning for deeper emotional connections, or families navigating complex dynamics. Their goals center around trust, love, mutual respect, and understanding, all in pursuit of a holistic journey of contentment and well-being.
I specialize in Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I can provide in person, telehealth services in Virginia and telehealth services in WV. Our ideal client at Heartstrings Mended Counseling may be grappling with the challenges of life, striving for fulfilling relationships and seeking emotional well-being. They might be individuals aiming for self-discovery, couples yearning for deeper emotional connections, or families navigating complex dynamics. Their goals center around trust, love, mutual respect, and understanding, all in pursuit of a holistic journey of contentment and well-being.
(540) 358-8412 View (540) 358-8412
Photo of Karina McGovern Chace, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karina McGovern Chace
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Purcellville, VA 20132
I am a depth psychologist and psychotherapist with a peaceful therapy studio in Purcellville, Virginia. I excel in bereavement, adolescents, military families, and women's issues including fertility. My goal is to provide a sanctuary for you to explore and discover who you authentically are. In this safe space, you will be encouraged to unveil your strengths, and to confidently present the "real you" to the world. My style of therapy is uniquely comfortable, creative, and grounding. I can help you safely work through trauma and confusion related to life changes and identity, helping to clear obstacles in your path.
I am a depth psychologist and psychotherapist with a peaceful therapy studio in Purcellville, Virginia. I excel in bereavement, adolescents, military families, and women's issues including fertility. My goal is to provide a sanctuary for you to explore and discover who you authentically are. In this safe space, you will be encouraged to unveil your strengths, and to confidently present the "real you" to the world. My style of therapy is uniquely comfortable, creative, and grounding. I can help you safely work through trauma and confusion related to life changes and identity, helping to clear obstacles in your path.
(503) 446-3243 View (503) 446-3243
Mary Ann Rapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
Mary Ann graduated from The George Washington University with her Master's in Counseling and currently does individual therapy with Lifestance Health, both in person and by televisit. She also holds a Master's in Interdisciplinary Studies from George Mason University. Her areas of expertise include PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Substance Abuse. Prior to coming to Lifestance, Mary Ann worked for Inova Loudoun Hospital as well as spent 9 years at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. She enjoys gardening, travel and snorkeling as hobbies.
Mary Ann graduated from The George Washington University with her Master's in Counseling and currently does individual therapy with Lifestance Health, both in person and by televisit. She also holds a Master's in Interdisciplinary Studies from George Mason University. Her areas of expertise include PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Substance Abuse. Prior to coming to Lifestance, Mary Ann worked for Inova Loudoun Hospital as well as spent 9 years at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. She enjoys gardening, travel and snorkeling as hobbies.
(540) 401-8476 View (540) 401-8476
Photo of Melissa Stevens - Cup of Tea Counseling, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cup of Tea Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Purcellville, VA 20132  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Melissa. I have been described as "calm, gentle, soft-spoken, serene, an excellent listener, non-judgmental, open, kind, thoughtful, accepting, welcoming and heartfelt." Together, we can create a safe space for you to set down your burdens, invite your emotions for a cup of tea and conversation, and begin exploring all of the possibilities and potential that life has to offer you. "I wish I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.” - The poet Hafez of Persia
Welcome! My name is Melissa. I have been described as "calm, gentle, soft-spoken, serene, an excellent listener, non-judgmental, open, kind, thoughtful, accepting, welcoming and heartfelt." Together, we can create a safe space for you to set down your burdens, invite your emotions for a cup of tea and conversation, and begin exploring all of the possibilities and potential that life has to offer you. "I wish I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.” - The poet Hafez of Persia
(540) 565-5799 View (540) 565-5799
Photo of Glenn Horwitz, PhD, Psychologist
Glenn Horwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
As a psychotherapist, I cultivate a safe & supportive atmosphere in which my clients explore thoughts and feelings about the important areas in their lives that may be broken, or not working as well as one hoped and planned. Adults often address major life changes, symptoms of anxiety and depression, relationship issues, as well as struggles with substance misuse and alcoholism. To schedule an initial consult, please cut/paste link to Calendly here into your browser > calendly.com/drglennphd
As a psychotherapist, I cultivate a safe & supportive atmosphere in which my clients explore thoughts and feelings about the important areas in their lives that may be broken, or not working as well as one hoped and planned. Adults often address major life changes, symptoms of anxiety and depression, relationship issues, as well as struggles with substance misuse and alcoholism. To schedule an initial consult, please cut/paste link to Calendly here into your browser > calendly.com/drglennphd
(571) 399-5847 View (571) 399-5847
Photo of Devon Viar, MA
Devon Viar
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Purcellville, VA 20132
Devon is passionate about helping kids heal, thrive, and become the best version of themselves. With an integrative approach, Devon incorporates different counseling theories and uses games, drawing, music, and other creative outlets in sessions. With years of experience providing care for children, Devon is well-versed in all ages, stages, and challenges from early childhood through adolescence. Whether a child is struggling with behavioral issues, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, social skills, or adjustment issues, Devon can help.
Devon is passionate about helping kids heal, thrive, and become the best version of themselves. With an integrative approach, Devon incorporates different counseling theories and uses games, drawing, music, and other creative outlets in sessions. With years of experience providing care for children, Devon is well-versed in all ages, stages, and challenges from early childhood through adolescence. Whether a child is struggling with behavioral issues, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, social skills, or adjustment issues, Devon can help.
(540) 515-5795 View (540) 515-5795
Photo of Kellie Boyle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kellie Boyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
Kellie is a LPC who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from JMU with a degree in Psychology & Family Studies, earned her Master’s in Counseling at UNC Charlotte, and completed post- master’s work in professional counseling at VCU. Kellie thoroughly enjoys learning about her client’s backgrounds and life experiences. She became EMDR trained in September 2023; being completely inspired by the research and outcomes of this treatment area. She is eager to continue her training, development, and advocacy in EMDR. Kellie also uses a great deal of Cognitive Behavioral techniques.
Kellie is a LPC who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from JMU with a degree in Psychology & Family Studies, earned her Master’s in Counseling at UNC Charlotte, and completed post- master’s work in professional counseling at VCU. Kellie thoroughly enjoys learning about her client’s backgrounds and life experiences. She became EMDR trained in September 2023; being completely inspired by the research and outcomes of this treatment area. She is eager to continue her training, development, and advocacy in EMDR. Kellie also uses a great deal of Cognitive Behavioral techniques.
(540) 889-3748 View (540) 889-3748
Photo of Katrina Clayton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katrina Clayton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
Katrina Clayton works with individuals, couples, and groups. Specialty areas include Christian counseling, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, betrayal trauma, couples, family dysfunction, and relationship difficulties. Katrina uses multiple therapeutic techniques to best meet the needs of her client. This may include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Attachment Therapy, and Solutions-Focused Therapy. She also will integrate Biblical principles for those who want a combination of faith-based counseling with therapeutic techniques.
Katrina Clayton works with individuals, couples, and groups. Specialty areas include Christian counseling, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, betrayal trauma, couples, family dysfunction, and relationship difficulties. Katrina uses multiple therapeutic techniques to best meet the needs of her client. This may include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Attachment Therapy, and Solutions-Focused Therapy. She also will integrate Biblical principles for those who want a combination of faith-based counseling with therapeutic techniques.
(540) 712-8424 View (540) 712-8424
Photo of Sherry Hall - Sherry Hall, LPC, NCC, Board Approved Supervisor, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherry Hall, LPC, NCC, Board Approved Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Purcellville, VA 20132  (Online Only)
My clients find me warm and welcoming. Everyone needs someone to listen to them as they work through challenging situations and I am here to help. My personal experiences and extensive educational background help me relate as you are navigating around, or through, life's twists and turns. You can call, text, or email me at shallcounseling@aol.com to get the conversation started. For more information, please visit my website: www.sherryhallcounseling.com
My clients find me warm and welcoming. Everyone needs someone to listen to them as they work through challenging situations and I am here to help. My personal experiences and extensive educational background help me relate as you are navigating around, or through, life's twists and turns. You can call, text, or email me at shallcounseling@aol.com to get the conversation started. For more information, please visit my website: www.sherryhallcounseling.com
(571) 512-3834 View (571) 512-3834
Photo of Eileen Mulcahy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Mulcahy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
Eileen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who works primarily with children, teens, adults, and families. She has over 28 years of professional experience that she uses to assist clients suffering from stress, family conflict, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, trauma, PTSD, and more. She completed her Master's in Social Work from the University of Maryland-Baltimore, specializing in families and children, and earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Women's Studies from Goddard College.
Eileen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who works primarily with children, teens, adults, and families. She has over 28 years of professional experience that she uses to assist clients suffering from stress, family conflict, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, trauma, PTSD, and more. She completed her Master's in Social Work from the University of Maryland-Baltimore, specializing in families and children, and earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Women's Studies from Goddard College.
(540) 501-7183 View (540) 501-7183
Photo of Cynthia W Hayes, PhD, Psychologist
Cynthia W Hayes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
I have a broad practice in which I work with adults, adolescents and children on a variety of issues including, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, ADHD, learning and developmental difficulties. I also conduct psychoeducational and gifted and talented testing.
I have a broad practice in which I work with adults, adolescents and children on a variety of issues including, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, ADHD, learning and developmental difficulties. I also conduct psychoeducational and gifted and talented testing.
(703) 468-8426 View (703) 468-8426
Photo of Sara R Ablard-Parella, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara R Ablard-Parella
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132
My passion as a therapist is helping couples and families establish a safe, secure connection. This often involves healing a past injury. I have extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an empirically validated therapy based in attachment theory. I also work with individuals to help recover from depression and establish ways to manage anxiety. Parenting, including co-parenting for divorced couples is another passion of mine.
My passion as a therapist is helping couples and families establish a safe, secure connection. This often involves healing a past injury. I have extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an empirically validated therapy based in attachment theory. I also work with individuals to help recover from depression and establish ways to manage anxiety. Parenting, including co-parenting for divorced couples is another passion of mine.
(703) 596-8470 View (703) 596-8470
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Purcellville, VA

80+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Purcellville, VA who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
81% Depression
70% Trauma and PTSD
68% Relationship Issues
67% Self Esteem
63% Coping Skills
60% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

61% Aetna
61% BlueCross and BlueShield
61% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Purcellville, VA see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Purcellville?

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.