Therapists in Gearhart, OR

Photo of Delores Sullivan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Delores Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gearhart, OR 97138
When someone comes to therapy they want to feel heard. They want to feel safe. They want to know someone cares and can help them. They want to talk to someone who has the experience and skills to be present to their difficulties and who can bring about healing and resolution. Therapy is a unique human relationship based on compassion, empathy, and mutual collaboration.
When someone comes to therapy they want to feel heard. They want to feel safe. They want to know someone cares and can help them. They want to talk to someone who has the experience and skills to be present to their difficulties and who can bring about healing and resolution. Therapy is a unique human relationship based on compassion, empathy, and mutual collaboration.
(971) 251-4526 View (971) 251-4526
Photo of Rev. Dr. Glen Byron Maiden - Hope , PhD, DMin, LMHC, CSAT, CST, Counselor
Hope
Counselor, PhD, DMin, LMHC, CSAT, CST
Verified Verified
Gearhart, OR 97138
My passion recovers broken marriages and relationships. I am a board certified Christian sex therapist using the Bible as foundational theory in treatment. My PhD in Clinical Sexology focuses on the Book of Genesis as a sexual health primer for families. I have a Doctor of Ministry in the theology and treatment of addiction, trauma, and anxiety. My certifications include sex addiction and multi addiction therapy, and traumatic stress treatment. I also hold full licensure as a mental health counselor in the State of Washington.
My passion recovers broken marriages and relationships. I am a board certified Christian sex therapist using the Bible as foundational theory in treatment. My PhD in Clinical Sexology focuses on the Book of Genesis as a sexual health primer for families. I have a Doctor of Ministry in the theology and treatment of addiction, trauma, and anxiety. My certifications include sex addiction and multi addiction therapy, and traumatic stress treatment. I also hold full licensure as a mental health counselor in the State of Washington.
(971) 328-4329 View (971) 328-4329
Photo of Pam Barela, PhD, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Pam Barela
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gearhart, OR 97138
With me you will find a space to be open and vulnerable about topics that cause doubt, fear, discomfort, joy, curiosity, excitement, and more. The areas I focus my practice are: Individual Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy, Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Intimacy, Gender, Identity, and religion/deconstruction and reconstruction of faith. My passion is helping couples connect and develop a strong foundation from which they can take on any challenge, strengthen families of origin, helping blended families become deeply rooted, as well as helping individuals overcome personal struggles.
With me you will find a space to be open and vulnerable about topics that cause doubt, fear, discomfort, joy, curiosity, excitement, and more. The areas I focus my practice are: Individual Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy, Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Intimacy, Gender, Identity, and religion/deconstruction and reconstruction of faith. My passion is helping couples connect and develop a strong foundation from which they can take on any challenge, strengthen families of origin, helping blended families become deeply rooted, as well as helping individuals overcome personal struggles.
(503) 468-6964 View (503) 468-6964
Photo of Dorothy Jackie Beerger - New Beginnings, LPC, CEAT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Beginnings
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Gearhart, OR 97138
NOTE: I am now EMDR-Certified. When an individual feels safe and accepted and has the opportunity and intention to experience their emotions, their inner wisdom will facilitate discovery of solutions. My role is to support, guide, and calmly trust the unfolding process. I am passionate about the process of therapy, and honored to witness the awakening of trust as fear is transformed, faith is renewed, and energy is enhanced to create abundant health.
NOTE: I am now EMDR-Certified. When an individual feels safe and accepted and has the opportunity and intention to experience their emotions, their inner wisdom will facilitate discovery of solutions. My role is to support, guide, and calmly trust the unfolding process. I am passionate about the process of therapy, and honored to witness the awakening of trust as fear is transformed, faith is renewed, and energy is enhanced to create abundant health.
(503) 444-9442 View (503) 444-9442

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Annie 'jiahui' Chen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie 'jiahui' Chen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaside, OR 97138  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a clinician of color, someone with lived experience as a first-generational immigrant, or as an international student? Do you need support with family issues or a partner, cultural support, or support for mental health in a culture where stigma exists? I can help you with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, trauma, issues related to cultural adaptation, relationship issues, boundary setting, procrastination, life transitions and self worth. I also speak fluent Cantonese and Mandarin. Its never easy to walk alone in distress, feeling lost and helpless. Together, lets create a safe space for you to heal.
Are you seeking a clinician of color, someone with lived experience as a first-generational immigrant, or as an international student? Do you need support with family issues or a partner, cultural support, or support for mental health in a culture where stigma exists? I can help you with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, trauma, issues related to cultural adaptation, relationship issues, boundary setting, procrastination, life transitions and self worth. I also speak fluent Cantonese and Mandarin. Its never easy to walk alone in distress, feeling lost and helpless. Together, lets create a safe space for you to heal.
(503) 994-1469 View (503) 994-1469
Photo of Mel Langston - Mel Langston Professional Services, Inc., PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mel Langston Professional Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Seaside, OR 97138
I have worked in the mental health field for 30 years, with individuals and families of all ages. My professional training includes Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Psychology and Counseling and a PhD in Health Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon and hold state and national certifications in mental health and substance abuse. I believe in a holistic approach to counseling and respect the individuality of all human beings. We will work together to reach your stated goals of therapy. Whatever your presenting problem, however desperate you may feel, I am here to offer hope.
I have worked in the mental health field for 30 years, with individuals and families of all ages. My professional training includes Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Psychology and Counseling and a PhD in Health Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon and hold state and national certifications in mental health and substance abuse. I believe in a holistic approach to counseling and respect the individuality of all human beings. We will work together to reach your stated goals of therapy. Whatever your presenting problem, however desperate you may feel, I am here to offer hope.
(503) 406-3901 View (503) 406-3901
Photo of Terra Marzano, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terra Marzano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cannon Beach, OR 97110  (Online Only)
When we are hurting — whether it be from trauma, romantic heartbreak, a new physical illness, or longstanding feelings of self-doubt and worry — we can feel overwhelmed, disempowered and lost. The world isn't always easy on us and being human is hard! When it gets to be too much, having a dedicated therapeutic space to experience acceptance, nurturing, and emotional safety can bring deep feelings of relief. From that relieved place and through our work together, you'll rediscover your strong connection to yourself, creating space for possibility and transformation.
When we are hurting — whether it be from trauma, romantic heartbreak, a new physical illness, or longstanding feelings of self-doubt and worry — we can feel overwhelmed, disempowered and lost. The world isn't always easy on us and being human is hard! When it gets to be too much, having a dedicated therapeutic space to experience acceptance, nurturing, and emotional safety can bring deep feelings of relief. From that relieved place and through our work together, you'll rediscover your strong connection to yourself, creating space for possibility and transformation.
(971) 233-4669 View (971) 233-4669
Photo of Sarah Von Colditz - Shoreline Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shoreline Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaside, OR 97138
Use website link for our HIPAA secure contact form. We are currently seeing clients via telehealth and in person in Astoria, Oregon. At Shoreline Counseling we know you bring a unique understanding of your own world and the world around you. No person on this planet has gone through the same experiences that you have. Therapy begins by opening the layers of understanding around yourself and others. The goals is to focus on your individual experiences to get you to a better internal space. Most work is done through identifying thoughts, feelings or behaviors and processing how experiences in your past influence your current life.
Use website link for our HIPAA secure contact form. We are currently seeing clients via telehealth and in person in Astoria, Oregon. At Shoreline Counseling we know you bring a unique understanding of your own world and the world around you. No person on this planet has gone through the same experiences that you have. Therapy begins by opening the layers of understanding around yourself and others. The goals is to focus on your individual experiences to get you to a better internal space. Most work is done through identifying thoughts, feelings or behaviors and processing how experiences in your past influence your current life.
(503) 917-3292 View (503) 917-3292
Photo of Jenny Janssens, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Janssens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Seaside, OR 97138  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Arizona, Oregon and Colorado. I approach counseling with the understanding that all clients are doing the best they can with what they know. As an experienced therapist I explore with the client what is getting in the way of living a healthy and satisfying life. I use an integrated psychotherapy approach that is tailored to work with the client’s strengths, personality, and needs. My specialties are DBT skills training, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Cognitive processing, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, and mindfulness skills.
Hello, I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Arizona, Oregon and Colorado. I approach counseling with the understanding that all clients are doing the best they can with what they know. As an experienced therapist I explore with the client what is getting in the way of living a healthy and satisfying life. I use an integrated psychotherapy approach that is tailored to work with the client’s strengths, personality, and needs. My specialties are DBT skills training, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Cognitive processing, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, and mindfulness skills.
(928) 248-2981 View (928) 248-2981
Photo of Elizabeth Suarez Snow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Suarez Snow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seaside, OR 97138  (Online Only)
I teach about identifying emotions and learning to regulate emotions. Learning emotion regulation is helpful for everyone who is struggling with poor self-esteem, anxiety, depression, poor social skills, and relationships.
I teach about identifying emotions and learning to regulate emotions. Learning emotion regulation is helpful for everyone who is struggling with poor self-esteem, anxiety, depression, poor social skills, and relationships.
(503) 213-9292 View (503) 213-9292
Photo of Linda Robinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, OR 97146  (Online Only)
Sometimes life becomes overwhelming, and that can lead to feeling lost and alone. It can be difficult to know where to turn, and how to find the right help. I often work with people who are facing depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You might be experiencing sadness, discouragement, or anxiety that interferes with your everyday life. While each person has their own journey to go through, you are certainly not alone, and you don’t have to feel this way forever. With therapy you can begin to climb out of isolation and start feeling like yourself again.
Sometimes life becomes overwhelming, and that can lead to feeling lost and alone. It can be difficult to know where to turn, and how to find the right help. I often work with people who are facing depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You might be experiencing sadness, discouragement, or anxiety that interferes with your everyday life. While each person has their own journey to go through, you are certainly not alone, and you don’t have to feel this way forever. With therapy you can begin to climb out of isolation and start feeling like yourself again.
(503) 907-6238 View (503) 907-6238
Photo of Charlotte M Haefner - Manifest Counseling PDX, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Manifest Counseling PDX
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaside, OR 97138  (Online Only)
Are there old patterns stuck on repeat in your relationship that you’ve tried to change but can’t seem to? Is relationship stress or anxiety in general getting in the way of your feeling satisfied or in flow with your life? Maybe you feel invisible or unappreciated in your relationship. You may have even stopped trying due to repeated failures trying to "fix" what isn't working. The truth is every now and then we need support from someone who has the knowledge, training, and personal experience to help you with something like this. Imagine feeling more confident, calm, and in touch with yourself and in your relationships.
Are there old patterns stuck on repeat in your relationship that you’ve tried to change but can’t seem to? Is relationship stress or anxiety in general getting in the way of your feeling satisfied or in flow with your life? Maybe you feel invisible or unappreciated in your relationship. You may have even stopped trying due to repeated failures trying to "fix" what isn't working. The truth is every now and then we need support from someone who has the knowledge, training, and personal experience to help you with something like this. Imagine feeling more confident, calm, and in touch with yourself and in your relationships.
(503) 476-9475 View (503) 476-9475
Photo of Rory G Gerard-Govea - NC Counseling & Telehealth, NCC, LPC-TX, LPC-OR, CADC-OR, LMHC-WA, Licensed Professional Counselor
NC Counseling & Telehealth
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-TX, LPC-OR, CADC-OR, LMHC-WA
Verified Verified
Seaside, OR 97138  (Online Only)
**I no longer accept private or commercial insurance.** My cash fees are $50 for telehealth sessions payable at the beginning of the session. I offer, when appropriate, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy approaches. I take a practical solutions focused approach to behavioral health care and addiction recovery.
**I no longer accept private or commercial insurance.** My cash fees are $50 for telehealth sessions payable at the beginning of the session. I offer, when appropriate, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy approaches. I take a practical solutions focused approach to behavioral health care and addiction recovery.
(469) 457-2438 View (469) 457-2438
Photo of Brianne Crane, MA
Brianne Crane
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Cannon Beach, OR 97110  (Online Only)
Currently accepting NEW clients! Receiving teletherapy without leaving the comfort of your home is convenient for multiple obvious reasons; being in your own environment also offers several benefits that allow a natural process, greatly enhancing the therapeutic relationship. I enjoy working with adolescents, families, and adult individuals; ranging from a variety of metal health issues, to the daily highs and lows of life. My counseling style is to empathically meet my clients where they are throughout the therapeutic process, work alongside them while they navigate life, and offer insight for moving forward successfully.
Currently accepting NEW clients! Receiving teletherapy without leaving the comfort of your home is convenient for multiple obvious reasons; being in your own environment also offers several benefits that allow a natural process, greatly enhancing the therapeutic relationship. I enjoy working with adolescents, families, and adult individuals; ranging from a variety of metal health issues, to the daily highs and lows of life. My counseling style is to empathically meet my clients where they are throughout the therapeutic process, work alongside them while they navigate life, and offer insight for moving forward successfully.
(971) 265-8326 View (971) 265-8326
Photo of Miranda Robinson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miranda Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seaside, OR 97138  (Online Only)
Experienced trauma and having some sort of related struggle? Helping you work through past/present life experiences is one of the greatest rewards as a therapist. I enjoy helping you learn how to get grounded in the present and live your best life. We can all use someone to talk to who offers us a non-judgmental, objective relationship and that really listens and supports us where we are. I provide a warm, safe environment for you to identify and process struggles that prevent you from being the best version of yourself and living the life you want. I want to help you so you can live fully!
Experienced trauma and having some sort of related struggle? Helping you work through past/present life experiences is one of the greatest rewards as a therapist. I enjoy helping you learn how to get grounded in the present and live your best life. We can all use someone to talk to who offers us a non-judgmental, objective relationship and that really listens and supports us where we are. I provide a warm, safe environment for you to identify and process struggles that prevent you from being the best version of yourself and living the life you want. I want to help you so you can live fully!
(503) 213-9147 View (503) 213-9147
Photo of Steph Powers - Ivy Holistic Wellness, PLLC, MSc, LCDC, CADC II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Ivy Holistic Wellness, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSc, LCDC, CADC II
Verified Verified
Cannon Beach, OR 97110  (Online Only)
Intended for those in active recovery, seeking continued care. Ideal for post-treatment as a step-down service. Our goal is to empower individuals to live a more conscious/balanced lifestyle by ensuring that clients have the tools to incorporate a holistic approach to wellness and sobriety.
Intended for those in active recovery, seeking continued care. Ideal for post-treatment as a step-down service. Our goal is to empower individuals to live a more conscious/balanced lifestyle by ensuring that clients have the tools to incorporate a holistic approach to wellness and sobriety.
(503) 966-3156 View (503) 966-3156
Photo of Anna Long-Stokes - Held Space Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Held Space Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seaside, OR 97138
My name is Anna Long-Stokes and I specializes in helping fabulous people move through funky stuff. Life is FULL of ups and downs. Some expected and many not. Therapy is dedicated space to show up and process through everything that life throws at you. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to turn inwards and find some semblance of balance when the world around them feels very out of control. My clients are are typically seeking some type of change and they want a comfortable space to turn to help them process as they take steps towards creating these changes.
My name is Anna Long-Stokes and I specializes in helping fabulous people move through funky stuff. Life is FULL of ups and downs. Some expected and many not. Therapy is dedicated space to show up and process through everything that life throws at you. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to turn inwards and find some semblance of balance when the world around them feels very out of control. My clients are are typically seeking some type of change and they want a comfortable space to turn to help them process as they take steps towards creating these changes.
(971) 299-8061 View (971) 299-8061
Photo of Cheri S Havlena - Cheri Havlena Counseling, LLC, MSW, CSWA
Cheri Havlena Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cannon Beach, OR 97110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Thanks for stopping by my page! Taking the first step to finding help can feel overwhelming and even scary. I have been a social worker in the field since 2014 and look forward to supporting you on your path to wellness. I enjoy working with Adults, Children (13-18), and families by walking beside them on their path to find inner healing and their best self. Your goals are my goals. Let me be there for you on your journey.
Hello! Thanks for stopping by my page! Taking the first step to finding help can feel overwhelming and even scary. I have been a social worker in the field since 2014 and look forward to supporting you on your path to wellness. I enjoy working with Adults, Children (13-18), and families by walking beside them on their path to find inner healing and their best self. Your goals are my goals. Let me be there for you on your journey.
(503) 741-2451 View (503) 741-2451

Online Therapists

Photo of Seth Altshuler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seth Altshuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
It is my belief that therapy is most beneficial when trust is at its core. My practice is built around understanding, aligning, and growing in a strengths-based and safe environment. Narrative Therapy, CBT, Behavioral Interventions, and person-centered approaches are my focus areas. I have over 18 years experience in mental health, counseling, and alcohol and drug treatment. Adults and teens (16 and up) are welcome.
It is my belief that therapy is most beneficial when trust is at its core. My practice is built around understanding, aligning, and growing in a strengths-based and safe environment. Narrative Therapy, CBT, Behavioral Interventions, and person-centered approaches are my focus areas. I have over 18 years experience in mental health, counseling, and alcohol and drug treatment. Adults and teens (16 and up) are welcome.
(510) 662-0766 View (510) 662-0766
Photo of Cynthia Hiles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Hiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Cynthia Hiles, LCSW received her master's degree in Social Work from University of Southern California three decades ago. She has been a practicing Clinical Social Worker in private practice and in a neonatal intensive care unit in a medical setting. Working with individuals or families coping with a medical crisis or facing a life challenge is her primary focus. Utilizing various treatment modalities, she is able to tailor a tool kit to maximize the therapeutic process in a respectful and compassionate setting.
Cynthia Hiles, LCSW received her master's degree in Social Work from University of Southern California three decades ago. She has been a practicing Clinical Social Worker in private practice and in a neonatal intensive care unit in a medical setting. Working with individuals or families coping with a medical crisis or facing a life challenge is her primary focus. Utilizing various treatment modalities, she is able to tailor a tool kit to maximize the therapeutic process in a respectful and compassionate setting.
(503) 966-9117 View (503) 966-9117

See more therapy options for Gearhart

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Gearhart, OR

< 10

Therapists in Gearhart, OR who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Spirituality
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Divorce
100% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

29 Years

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male

How Therapists in Gearhart, OR see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Gearhart?

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.