Therapists in Prescott, AZ

Photo of Charlie A Walker, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlie A Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86305
Each client, has their own unique and individual needs. In our initial session and beyond, we are able to identify your specific issues, that brought you to therapy. We will explore what your current and future needs are, and co-create your treatment plan, to specifically focus on your own unique areas to explore, learn, and grow from .
Each client, has their own unique and individual needs. In our initial session and beyond, we are able to identify your specific issues, that brought you to therapy. We will explore what your current and future needs are, and co-create your treatment plan, to specifically focus on your own unique areas to explore, learn, and grow from .
(520) 210-5676 View (520) 210-5676
Photo of Dr. Steve Ater, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Steve Ater
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303  (Online Only)
Want more than typical therapy? My approach, The Human Boundaries Model, was created to facilitate the Deep Change you seek. Deep Change happens at the level of your identity and in the rules, assumptions, and beliefs you may hardly be aware of, but that dominate your life without your permission. Once you understand how that system works, you can work the system to make the real and lasting change you desire happen. Paint a new picture of the worth of yourself and others, pursue the goal of excellence in all you do, live life stronger than before and enjoy it more.
Want more than typical therapy? My approach, The Human Boundaries Model, was created to facilitate the Deep Change you seek. Deep Change happens at the level of your identity and in the rules, assumptions, and beliefs you may hardly be aware of, but that dominate your life without your permission. Once you understand how that system works, you can work the system to make the real and lasting change you desire happen. Paint a new picture of the worth of yourself and others, pursue the goal of excellence in all you do, live life stronger than before and enjoy it more.
(928) 543-6522 View (928) 543-6522
Photo of Lina Kanaley, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lina Kanaley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
I am an associate licensed marriage and family therapist that works with many different people. I am most passionate about helping couples navigate through their relationships as well as helping individuals overcome struggles in their everyday lives. I work with adolescents, couples, and individuals with various struggles such as ADHD, anxiety and depression
I am an associate licensed marriage and family therapist that works with many different people. I am most passionate about helping couples navigate through their relationships as well as helping individuals overcome struggles in their everyday lives. I work with adolescents, couples, and individuals with various struggles such as ADHD, anxiety and depression
(928) 683-7150 View (928) 683-7150
Photo of McLoughlin Counseling Group, MS, SEP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
McLoughlin Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, SEP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86303
McLoughlin Counseling Group has been honored to provide ethical and professional counseling services to the residents of Arizona for seven years now. We provide individual counseling sessions to a variety of ages and treat a wide range of mental health and trauma related concerns. We accept most major insurance plans. Please reach out to schedule an intake with one of our licensed counselors and social workers. Today is a good day to commit to bring positive change into your life. When one person commits to their own healing journey the entire community is positively impacted.
McLoughlin Counseling Group has been honored to provide ethical and professional counseling services to the residents of Arizona for seven years now. We provide individual counseling sessions to a variety of ages and treat a wide range of mental health and trauma related concerns. We accept most major insurance plans. Please reach out to schedule an intake with one of our licensed counselors and social workers. Today is a good day to commit to bring positive change into your life. When one person commits to their own healing journey the entire community is positively impacted.
(928) 756-0662 View (928) 756-0662
Photo of Natalie Webber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86305
Not accepting new clients
Are you overwhelmed and reacting poorly to the difficult things happening in your life? It is so hard when you want to be helpful and supportive of your friends and family but at the end of the day you have nothing left to give to anyone else. You go to bed with plans to cross things off of your to-do list and a commitment to being a kinder person tomorrow. Then four hours later you are still awake and frustrated because your brain will not shut off. No matter what you do this cycle repeats itself and you fall more behind everyday and feel disconnected. Feeling energized, content, and connected is achievable.
Are you overwhelmed and reacting poorly to the difficult things happening in your life? It is so hard when you want to be helpful and supportive of your friends and family but at the end of the day you have nothing left to give to anyone else. You go to bed with plans to cross things off of your to-do list and a commitment to being a kinder person tomorrow. Then four hours later you are still awake and frustrated because your brain will not shut off. No matter what you do this cycle repeats itself and you fall more behind everyday and feel disconnected. Feeling energized, content, and connected is achievable.
(520) 346-7501 View (520) 346-7501
Photo of Asya R Perkins - Asya Perkins Coaching & Consultation, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Asya Perkins Coaching & Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
Not accepting new clients
Not currently accepting new clients... Relief is about growth, and growth is about roots and repair. We'll utilize IFS, EMDR, sand tray, and talk therapy to discover the roots of your symptoms (ie., panic attacks, depression, insomnia) and how to heal them. Every person is different and together we'll discover the tools that work best with the way you think and emotionally process, working within a life-coaching model rather than focusing on diagnosis. I have been providing counseling services since 2011, completed EMDR training in 2017, and have received over 100 hours of continued education in Internal Family Systems.
Not currently accepting new clients... Relief is about growth, and growth is about roots and repair. We'll utilize IFS, EMDR, sand tray, and talk therapy to discover the roots of your symptoms (ie., panic attacks, depression, insomnia) and how to heal them. Every person is different and together we'll discover the tools that work best with the way you think and emotionally process, working within a life-coaching model rather than focusing on diagnosis. I have been providing counseling services since 2011, completed EMDR training in 2017, and have received over 100 hours of continued education in Internal Family Systems.
(520) 317-2837 View (520) 317-2837
Photo of Sabrina Jennifer Johnson, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Sabrina Jennifer Johnson
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86305
My focused intention as a pastoral/spiritual counselor is to offer clients the time and space to go within and explore the wonderous galaxies we each have inside of us. With this new information, one can become more consciously aware of how to choose to engage with others – as well as themselves – so that all aspects of the individual can evolve into a congruent harmonious wholeness. As the client "listens up," to what is shared in our sessions, they can then "listen in" as they pay attention and follow the guidance of their own inner "guru," which is the heart.
My focused intention as a pastoral/spiritual counselor is to offer clients the time and space to go within and explore the wonderous galaxies we each have inside of us. With this new information, one can become more consciously aware of how to choose to engage with others – as well as themselves – so that all aspects of the individual can evolve into a congruent harmonious wholeness. As the client "listens up," to what is shared in our sessions, they can then "listen in" as they pay attention and follow the guidance of their own inner "guru," which is the heart.
(928) 414-9466 View (928) 414-9466
Photo of Rachel Hodgson, MEd, LAC, NCC, CSC
Rachel Hodgson
Licensed Associate Counselor, MEd, LAC, NCC, CSC
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
Not accepting new clients
Trauma of all kinds can have lasting impact. I work to guide clients through their healing process with empathy and understanding. I recognize the complexity of trauma and offer personalized support to help individuals navigate their unique experiences. By fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere, I encourage clients to express their thoughts and emotions openly, facilitating exploration of underlying wounds and their effects on personal growth. Supporting clients in discovering their true selves allows for profound understanding of one's identity, leading to a more authentic and meaningful life.
Trauma of all kinds can have lasting impact. I work to guide clients through their healing process with empathy and understanding. I recognize the complexity of trauma and offer personalized support to help individuals navigate their unique experiences. By fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere, I encourage clients to express their thoughts and emotions openly, facilitating exploration of underlying wounds and their effects on personal growth. Supporting clients in discovering their true selves allows for profound understanding of one's identity, leading to a more authentic and meaningful life.
(928) 985-3396 View (928) 985-3396
Photo of Gabriel Murphy, LPC, Counselor
Gabriel Murphy
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86305
Psychotherapy can provide unique support to many life challenges; from navigating difficult transitions, to undoing patterns and beliefs that keep us stuck, to changing how we feel about ourselves and others, to healing past traumas that still haunt us in the present.
Psychotherapy can provide unique support to many life challenges; from navigating difficult transitions, to undoing patterns and beliefs that keep us stuck, to changing how we feel about ourselves and others, to healing past traumas that still haunt us in the present.
(520) 523-4596 View (520) 523-4596
Photo of Colleen M Tretton, LPC, SEP, RMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen M Tretton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP, RMT
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86305
Coping with the effects of a traumatic experience is like battling through a stream of thick mud, making you feel helpless and unsafe. On the outside you may appear fine, but on the inside, there is something dark and sad sitting just below the surface. The irritability, lack of connection to others and yourself, disinterest in the things you used to enjoy, and difficulty sleeping is enough to make you feel like there’s no end in sight. Perhaps you’ve turned to substances or other behaviors as a way to cope since nothing else seems to work. Seeking help is scary but with the right connection miracles can happen.
Coping with the effects of a traumatic experience is like battling through a stream of thick mud, making you feel helpless and unsafe. On the outside you may appear fine, but on the inside, there is something dark and sad sitting just below the surface. The irritability, lack of connection to others and yourself, disinterest in the things you used to enjoy, and difficulty sleeping is enough to make you feel like there’s no end in sight. Perhaps you’ve turned to substances or other behaviors as a way to cope since nothing else seems to work. Seeking help is scary but with the right connection miracles can happen.
(928) 248-8632 View (928) 248-8632
Photo of Christine Hayes, MS, LPC, CLL-E, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CLL-E
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
Is your life troubled with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, or difficulty managing stress in your life. Do you have a child, teenager, or family that is struggling in communication and/or building healthy relationships. Or, do you want to help your child/teenager be successful in their lives. As a therapist, I believe in empowering you as an individual and/or your family to be the best it can be and enjoy your journey along the way. I also want to help new therapists in reaching their goal of becoming independently licensed and provide clinical supervision so they can accomplish their dreams.
Is your life troubled with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, or difficulty managing stress in your life. Do you have a child, teenager, or family that is struggling in communication and/or building healthy relationships. Or, do you want to help your child/teenager be successful in their lives. As a therapist, I believe in empowering you as an individual and/or your family to be the best it can be and enjoy your journey along the way. I also want to help new therapists in reaching their goal of becoming independently licensed and provide clinical supervision so they can accomplish their dreams.
(928) 362-3070 View (928) 362-3070
Photo of Anna Seno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Seno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86301
www.annaseno.com I facilitate deep heart centered work. If you decide to join me on this journey, you're opting to delve into the profound depths of your being. Using 15 years of experience and a framework of developmental trauma, I specialize in both Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) and Shadow Work, addressing depression, anxiety, PTSD, pain, chronic illness, relational challenges, and anything else holding you back from living life fully and pursuing the path you want for yourself. I hold a safe space for you to explore the depths of your soul and discover the agency and empowerment within you.
www.annaseno.com I facilitate deep heart centered work. If you decide to join me on this journey, you're opting to delve into the profound depths of your being. Using 15 years of experience and a framework of developmental trauma, I specialize in both Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) and Shadow Work, addressing depression, anxiety, PTSD, pain, chronic illness, relational challenges, and anything else holding you back from living life fully and pursuing the path you want for yourself. I hold a safe space for you to explore the depths of your soul and discover the agency and empowerment within you.
(520) 353-2404 View (520) 353-2404
Photo of Monty Shultz - Monty Shultz Counseling, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monty Shultz Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
Monty Shultz Counseling prides itself in building relationships will all clients. I enjoy working with adults both on an individual basis as well as with couples/marital therapy. I am only scheduling appointments with adults ages 19 and over. I am a believer in client centered practice. After moving to Prescott from Nebraska in June 2023, I have immediate openings.
Monty Shultz Counseling prides itself in building relationships will all clients. I enjoy working with adults both on an individual basis as well as with couples/marital therapy. I am only scheduling appointments with adults ages 19 and over. I am a believer in client centered practice. After moving to Prescott from Nebraska in June 2023, I have immediate openings.
(928) 599-7842 View (928) 599-7842
Photo of Marie Amara Tueller, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marie Amara Tueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
Marie Tueller is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing as a therapist, coach, professional consultant, & board certified clinical supervisor. Marie’s education, professional & personal background in treating mental health issues, addiction, & trauma related disorders gives her a unique & effective approach to counseling. She provides clients with a highly individualized treatment experience that is trauma informed & culturally sensitive. Marie has worked in the behavioral health field since 2001 with a diverse range of professional experience.
Marie Tueller is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing as a therapist, coach, professional consultant, & board certified clinical supervisor. Marie’s education, professional & personal background in treating mental health issues, addiction, & trauma related disorders gives her a unique & effective approach to counseling. She provides clients with a highly individualized treatment experience that is trauma informed & culturally sensitive. Marie has worked in the behavioral health field since 2001 with a diverse range of professional experience.
(928) 756-0906 View (928) 756-0906
Photo of Marla E Jirak, PhD
Marla E Jirak
PhD
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
Are you feeling overwhelmed and in need of support and resources for a life transition? Whether it be a career, relationship, caring for a loved one, dealing with Long COVID or managing stress, there are always challenges. You may want to be an influential leader in your career or want to find a new career. Are you ending a relationship and don't know how to go about meeting other people? Or perhaps you are stressed by the daily responsibilities that go into taking care of someone. In a compassionte and caring environment I can help you find the road blocks that get in the way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and in need of support and resources for a life transition? Whether it be a career, relationship, caring for a loved one, dealing with Long COVID or managing stress, there are always challenges. You may want to be an influential leader in your career or want to find a new career. Are you ending a relationship and don't know how to go about meeting other people? Or perhaps you are stressed by the daily responsibilities that go into taking care of someone. In a compassionte and caring environment I can help you find the road blocks that get in the way.
(928) 371-7415 View (928) 371-7415
Photo of Jessica Roberts, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Roberts
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
Welcome to my profile, I am so glad you are here. Do you find yourself struggling with navigating through life due to anxiety, depression, or trauma? Do you feel stuck in the storms of life, full of fear, loneliness, or burdened with negativity invading your thoughts and emotions, leaving you with the feeling of being hopeless and helpless? You are not alone! Therapy is a place where you can explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental environment, a space that allows vulnerability, a place to share your story, and process many emotions that invade your day-to-day well-being with the goal of healing from trauma.
Welcome to my profile, I am so glad you are here. Do you find yourself struggling with navigating through life due to anxiety, depression, or trauma? Do you feel stuck in the storms of life, full of fear, loneliness, or burdened with negativity invading your thoughts and emotions, leaving you with the feeling of being hopeless and helpless? You are not alone! Therapy is a place where you can explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental environment, a space that allows vulnerability, a place to share your story, and process many emotions that invade your day-to-day well-being with the goal of healing from trauma.
(928) 327-6903 x710 View (928) 327-6903 x710
Photo of Greta B Stromberg, MS, LISAC , Counselor
Greta B Stromberg
Counselor, MS, LISAC
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86305
I offer client centered counseling honoring each clients needs for healing. My approach will help you reduce symptoms of trauma by resolving past issues that still cause unresolved feelings. I focus on helping you learn how to self regulate with body centered therapies including mindfulness. You are the expert on your own experience & my expertise can help you feel grounded in your strengths & increase resilience. I work with couples & individuals to discover boundaries, set limits & communicate effectively. Therapy goals might include forming & keeping connections through identifying feelings & needs.
I offer client centered counseling honoring each clients needs for healing. My approach will help you reduce symptoms of trauma by resolving past issues that still cause unresolved feelings. I focus on helping you learn how to self regulate with body centered therapies including mindfulness. You are the expert on your own experience & my expertise can help you feel grounded in your strengths & increase resilience. I work with couples & individuals to discover boundaries, set limits & communicate effectively. Therapy goals might include forming & keeping connections through identifying feelings & needs.
(520) 457-0357 View (520) 457-0357
Photo of Robert Browne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
As an accomplished therapist with 20 years in practice, I offer a safe, nurturing environment for healing. Stress, feelings of inadequacy, anxiety or depression are frequent sources of discouragement and suffering. Every individual is unique, with their own strengths and difficulties. In counseling, some clients have concrete goals. Others may feel confused and overwhelmed, unsure of how to find greater contentment in their lives. Individuals and couples come to me to identify and overcome obstacles to a better life. My empathy and non-judgmental listening will help you navigate a path to attainable goals.
As an accomplished therapist with 20 years in practice, I offer a safe, nurturing environment for healing. Stress, feelings of inadequacy, anxiety or depression are frequent sources of discouragement and suffering. Every individual is unique, with their own strengths and difficulties. In counseling, some clients have concrete goals. Others may feel confused and overwhelmed, unsure of how to find greater contentment in their lives. Individuals and couples come to me to identify and overcome obstacles to a better life. My empathy and non-judgmental listening will help you navigate a path to attainable goals.
(928) 414-9031 View (928) 414-9031
Photo of Joseph Paul McCaffrey, LPC, LMHC, MS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Paul McCaffrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86301
I offer Counseling for your Mind, Body, and Soul. Specializing in complex developmental trauma, my intention is to help you transform the pain and inner conflict so you can feel connected, safe, and alive within yourself and the world. My approach is trauma-informed, influenced by ecotherapy, mindfulness, and somatic work, grounded in The NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM). Together, we will work to identify what you deeply want for yourself and support you with successfully navigating what gets in the way of embodying and manifesting your heart’s desire.
I offer Counseling for your Mind, Body, and Soul. Specializing in complex developmental trauma, my intention is to help you transform the pain and inner conflict so you can feel connected, safe, and alive within yourself and the world. My approach is trauma-informed, influenced by ecotherapy, mindfulness, and somatic work, grounded in The NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM). Together, we will work to identify what you deeply want for yourself and support you with successfully navigating what gets in the way of embodying and manifesting your heart’s desire.
(928) 212-5328 View (928) 212-5328
Photo of Sheila Marie Huff, MS, LAC, Counselor
Sheila Marie Huff
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86301
Trauma is something most of us have struggled with but you don't have to feel like you're alone. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Domestic Violence. I would love to get to know you better, help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and help you discover the path to a more fulfilling life. I am currently accepting clients so please don't hesitate to reach out to Journey Within and ask for Sheila.
Trauma is something most of us have struggled with but you don't have to feel like you're alone. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Domestic Violence. I would love to get to know you better, help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and help you discover the path to a more fulfilling life. I am currently accepting clients so please don't hesitate to reach out to Journey Within and ask for Sheila.
(928) 260-5451 View (928) 260-5451

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Prescott, AZ

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Prescott, AZ who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
83% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
75% Relationship Issues
70% Self Esteem
66% Stress
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
79% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Prescott, AZ see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Prescott?

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.