Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Joel Bain, MEd, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joel Bain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Many individuals are confronted at certain times in their life with a set of challenges and difficulties that seem insurmountable or overwhelming. Others are seeking guidance or insight in how to rediscover a sense of direction or purpose in their lives. Seeking out help is an act of courage and self-validation. Stop putting it off.
Many individuals are confronted at certain times in their life with a set of challenges and difficulties that seem insurmountable or overwhelming. Others are seeking guidance or insight in how to rediscover a sense of direction or purpose in their lives. Seeking out help is an act of courage and self-validation. Stop putting it off.
(865) 205-6067 View (865) 205-6067
Photo of Josh Cochran, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josh Cochran
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Josh Cochran is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. He has a B.S. in Psychology from Maryville College and an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from University of Tennessee, Knoxville. With a foundation in person-centered, existential, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Josh seeks to help clients with a variety of presenting mental health concerns and life challenges. He believes in the importance of meeting clients where they are and forming a plan of treatment based on each client's individual goals, strengths, and needs.
Josh Cochran is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. He has a B.S. in Psychology from Maryville College and an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from University of Tennessee, Knoxville. With a foundation in person-centered, existential, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Josh seeks to help clients with a variety of presenting mental health concerns and life challenges. He believes in the importance of meeting clients where they are and forming a plan of treatment based on each client's individual goals, strengths, and needs.
(865) 424-2458 View (865) 424-2458
Photo of Maggie Klotz, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Maggie Klotz
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Accepting New Clients! To have someone open their heart in therapy and trust me with it, is truly an honor. Therapy can be hard. Often times people share things with me they haven’t shared with anyone else. Because of this, I believe the relationship between client and therapist is the most important factor in therapy and what I focus on building first with you. Moreover, I take an integrative approach to therapy, conceptualizing from psychodynamic and interpersonal theories while utilizing interventions from EFT, DBT, CBT and interpersonal theories. All of my work is grounded in multicultural and strength-based views.
Accepting New Clients! To have someone open their heart in therapy and trust me with it, is truly an honor. Therapy can be hard. Often times people share things with me they haven’t shared with anyone else. Because of this, I believe the relationship between client and therapist is the most important factor in therapy and what I focus on building first with you. Moreover, I take an integrative approach to therapy, conceptualizing from psychodynamic and interpersonal theories while utilizing interventions from EFT, DBT, CBT and interpersonal theories. All of my work is grounded in multicultural and strength-based views.
(865) 205-6286 View (865) 205-6286
Photo of Jibby L Redfield, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jibby L Redfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I can see new clients within two days. I bring a lot of experience in depression, anxiety, personal conflicts, relationships, OCD, phobias, etc. Real and lasting changes have already happened with many of my clients! They have described me as objective, warm, and solution focused. Together we can bring you to a better place! Take that first step and call me about a free 15 minute, no commitment consultation. By the way, you might be surprised that therapy can actually be enjoyable! (-:
I can see new clients within two days. I bring a lot of experience in depression, anxiety, personal conflicts, relationships, OCD, phobias, etc. Real and lasting changes have already happened with many of my clients! They have described me as objective, warm, and solution focused. Together we can bring you to a better place! Take that first step and call me about a free 15 minute, no commitment consultation. By the way, you might be surprised that therapy can actually be enjoyable! (-:
(865) 205-8030 View (865) 205-8030
Photo of Jennifer Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Jen Williams, LMFT Jen Williams is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2016. She has a BA in Art History and a Master's in Psychology with an emphasis on Art Therapy. Jen believes in working with individuals to reconnect with their sense of hope, their inner child and themselves using person centered modalities and art therapy. In her free time, Jen enjoys cooking, painting, reading, lifting weights, going on walks, and spending time with her spouse and pets.
Jen Williams, LMFT Jen Williams is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2016. She has a BA in Art History and a Master's in Psychology with an emphasis on Art Therapy. Jen believes in working with individuals to reconnect with their sense of hope, their inner child and themselves using person centered modalities and art therapy. In her free time, Jen enjoys cooking, painting, reading, lifting weights, going on walks, and spending time with her spouse and pets.
(865) 448-4314 View (865) 448-4314
Photo of Jessica Kahler, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Kahler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I believe a person is the expert of their own experiences and I take a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to treatment and meet you where you are on your journey. With careful and respectful listening, sessions are structured in a way in which you feel respected and understood and are able to share your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences as we work together to reach your therapy goals. I help individuals with issues such as self-esteem, stress, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, codependency, relationship issues & others. I can also integrate your Christian faith if this is something you find helpful in therapy.
I believe a person is the expert of their own experiences and I take a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to treatment and meet you where you are on your journey. With careful and respectful listening, sessions are structured in a way in which you feel respected and understood and are able to share your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences as we work together to reach your therapy goals. I help individuals with issues such as self-esteem, stress, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, codependency, relationship issues & others. I can also integrate your Christian faith if this is something you find helpful in therapy.
(865) 518-8259 View (865) 518-8259
Photo of Alexandra Harrell, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Harrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Often times life can be confusing, uncertain, and uneasy, which may cause daily tasks to feel unmanageable. We can experience stress, anxiety, withdrawal from friends or family, etc. As a therapist, I want to walk alongside of you and help you process, heal, and grow into the person you want to be.
Often times life can be confusing, uncertain, and uneasy, which may cause daily tasks to feel unmanageable. We can experience stress, anxiety, withdrawal from friends or family, etc. As a therapist, I want to walk alongside of you and help you process, heal, and grow into the person you want to be.
(865) 432-6946 View (865) 432-6946
Photo of Cindy Montoya, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cindy Montoya
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932
One of the most beautiful things about being human is our ability to change. Yet, from observation and personal experience, I know how easy it is to feel stuck in destructive thoughts and behaviors. The good news is that you do not have to remain in a pit. Whether you struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, trauma, etc., every individual is worthy of healing and peace. My favorite part about working with clients is walking alongside them as you continue to find the courage to live out this belief so that you can live a more hopeful, healthy, and whole life.
One of the most beautiful things about being human is our ability to change. Yet, from observation and personal experience, I know how easy it is to feel stuck in destructive thoughts and behaviors. The good news is that you do not have to remain in a pit. Whether you struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, trauma, etc., every individual is worthy of healing and peace. My favorite part about working with clients is walking alongside them as you continue to find the courage to live out this belief so that you can live a more hopeful, healthy, and whole life.
(865) 674-1784 View (865) 674-1784
Photo of Dr. Jaima E. Walton, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
Dr. Jaima E. Walton
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist, practicing in Knoxville, TN with Knoxville Behavioral & Mental Health Services (schedule more quickly through our clinic website). I am passionate about clinical work and appreciate the opportunity to join with children, families, and adults in therapy to help them overcome current challenges and plan for future success. My areas of interest include working with teens and adults presenting with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also enjoy working with parents of young children (2 to 7 years old) to improve challenging behavioral difficulties.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist, practicing in Knoxville, TN with Knoxville Behavioral & Mental Health Services (schedule more quickly through our clinic website). I am passionate about clinical work and appreciate the opportunity to join with children, families, and adults in therapy to help them overcome current challenges and plan for future success. My areas of interest include working with teens and adults presenting with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also enjoy working with parents of young children (2 to 7 years old) to improve challenging behavioral difficulties.
(865) 269-3149 View (865) 269-3149
Photo of Dr. Chandra Feltman, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Chandra Feltman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Being human is hard. It’s messy. And it can feel totally overwhelming at times. However, when we learn to give voice to these inner experiences, they start to become more manageable. We begin to realize the feelings and symptoms we experience aren’t random, they’re telling us something. As your therapist, I can help you learn how to better connect with, understand, and express painful emotions, while also providing tools to help you cope. Through it all, I will offer you compassion, warmth, empathy - maybe even a well timed curse word if necessary. I’ll bring my whole authentic self to the therapy room and invite you to do the same.
Being human is hard. It’s messy. And it can feel totally overwhelming at times. However, when we learn to give voice to these inner experiences, they start to become more manageable. We begin to realize the feelings and symptoms we experience aren’t random, they’re telling us something. As your therapist, I can help you learn how to better connect with, understand, and express painful emotions, while also providing tools to help you cope. Through it all, I will offer you compassion, warmth, empathy - maybe even a well timed curse word if necessary. I’ll bring my whole authentic self to the therapy room and invite you to do the same.
(865) 412-4138 View (865) 412-4138
Photo of Rachel Lucero, tLPC, Counselor
Rachel Lucero
Counselor, tLPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I am Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the states of New Mexico (LPCC), Pennsylvania (LPC), Colorado (LPC) and Tennessee (LPC-MHSP temp). Since 2016, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with mental health issues including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and more. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders in adults and teens and work with individuals and families to foster feeling from disordered eating.
I am Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the states of New Mexico (LPCC), Pennsylvania (LPC), Colorado (LPC) and Tennessee (LPC-MHSP temp). Since 2016, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with mental health issues including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and more. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders in adults and teens and work with individuals and families to foster feeling from disordered eating.
(865) 800-3841 View (865) 800-3841
Photo of Jessica Kyle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Kyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
(865) 518-4165 View (865) 518-4165
Photo of Tim Sutherland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
(865) 285-7339 View (865) 285-7339
Photo of Shelby Buffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Buffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Hey there, I'm Shelby. I know the decision to start therapy isn't always the easy one but I hope to provide a space for you to grow. In my practice, I focus on helping individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, relationship dynamic issues, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I focus on providing an environment that feels collaborative, welcoming, and supportive while I help individuals learn and grow.
Hey there, I'm Shelby. I know the decision to start therapy isn't always the easy one but I hope to provide a space for you to grow. In my practice, I focus on helping individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, relationship dynamic issues, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I focus on providing an environment that feels collaborative, welcoming, and supportive while I help individuals learn and grow.
(865) 503-5197 View (865) 503-5197
Photo of Laurence Welch, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurence Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes. Outside of work, Laurence enjoys puttering in her garden, concocting treats in her kitchen, and playing the piano poorly. She also takes great pleasure in her excessive collection of books, most of which she has thought about reading.
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes. Outside of work, Laurence enjoys puttering in her garden, concocting treats in her kitchen, and playing the piano poorly. She also takes great pleasure in her excessive collection of books, most of which she has thought about reading.
(865) 269-6595 View (865) 269-6595
Photo of Jeffrey Scarbrough, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeffrey Scarbrough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37918  (Online Only)
With over 16 years of experience in the field, I have helped many families, individuals, adolescents, and couples navigate difficult seasons in their lives. I offer faith-based, practical, personalized therapy to my clients and truly care about each person that comes to me for help. I know it’s not easy to reach out, and I consider it a privilege to be chosen by my clients.
With over 16 years of experience in the field, I have helped many families, individuals, adolescents, and couples navigate difficult seasons in their lives. I offer faith-based, practical, personalized therapy to my clients and truly care about each person that comes to me for help. I know it’s not easy to reach out, and I consider it a privilege to be chosen by my clients.
(865) 344-2185 View (865) 344-2185
Photo of Erin Holm, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Holm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37920  (Online Only)
Let's not say "therapy," let's call it what it is - developing Emotional Intelligence. Emotional Intelligence is the key to a positive lifestyle. You are not born with Emotional Intelligence, nor does it come naturally. It is a skill that develops over time. Throughout our life, we are exposed to stress, adverse events and life-changing situations. These experiences add up, accumulate, get filed away in our minds; only to arise at the most inconvenient times, impacting our ability to function with everyday life. Having a strong Emotional Intelligence helps you manage and get your life back on track.
Let's not say "therapy," let's call it what it is - developing Emotional Intelligence. Emotional Intelligence is the key to a positive lifestyle. You are not born with Emotional Intelligence, nor does it come naturally. It is a skill that develops over time. Throughout our life, we are exposed to stress, adverse events and life-changing situations. These experiences add up, accumulate, get filed away in our minds; only to arise at the most inconvenient times, impacting our ability to function with everyday life. Having a strong Emotional Intelligence helps you manage and get your life back on track.
(865) 355-8032 View (865) 355-8032
Photo of Codi Dawn Kyle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Codi Dawn Kyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37931  (Online Only)
I can help with symptom reduction from anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and mood swings, etc. As well as help improve your coping skills, increase awareness, improve self esteem and self confidence, interpersonal relationships, better work life balance, recovery from substance abuse and overall wellbeing and quality of life, etc.
I can help with symptom reduction from anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and mood swings, etc. As well as help improve your coping skills, increase awareness, improve self esteem and self confidence, interpersonal relationships, better work life balance, recovery from substance abuse and overall wellbeing and quality of life, etc.
(865) 375-8089 View (865) 375-8089
Photo of Kari Riddell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Riddell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Not accepting new clients
I'm Kari Riddell, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a compassionate therapist specializing in providing support for goal-oriented individuals who are seeking a safe and non-judgmental space to share their experiences and take actionable steps towards positive change. Whether you're a teenager or an adult, I'm here to guide you through life's complexities and help you achieve your personal goals.
I'm Kari Riddell, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a compassionate therapist specializing in providing support for goal-oriented individuals who are seeking a safe and non-judgmental space to share their experiences and take actionable steps towards positive change. Whether you're a teenager or an adult, I'm here to guide you through life's complexities and help you achieve your personal goals.
(865) 351-6342 View (865) 351-6342
Photo of Dr. Camden Morgante, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Camden Morgante
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Imagine feeling whole and integrated in your emotions, relationships, and faith. You might be dealing with problems in your relationships with your spouse, family, or friends. You may say “I don’t deal well with emotions” or struggle to set healthy boundaries. Maybe you feel stuck from past experiences, trauma, or negative beliefs you just can't move past. After a recent life change or relationship issue, such as a difficult marriage, motherhood, or divorce, you may feel like you don’t know who you are any more. Let's find YOU again. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationships, I am here to help.
Imagine feeling whole and integrated in your emotions, relationships, and faith. You might be dealing with problems in your relationships with your spouse, family, or friends. You may say “I don’t deal well with emotions” or struggle to set healthy boundaries. Maybe you feel stuck from past experiences, trauma, or negative beliefs you just can't move past. After a recent life change or relationship issue, such as a difficult marriage, motherhood, or divorce, you may feel like you don’t know who you are any more. Let's find YOU again. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationships, I am here to help.
(865) 426-1427 View (865) 426-1427

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
66% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.