Therapists in Indianola, IA

Photo of Dacni Gabel, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dacni Gabel
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Indianola, IA 50125
My name is Dacni (pronounced Dak-nee). As a licensed mental health counselor, I provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space to allow for healing and growth. If you are a teen or woman going through a difficult situation, I can help you find your voice, build confidence, overcome self-doubt, and implement boundaries through effective communication.
My name is Dacni (pronounced Dak-nee). As a licensed mental health counselor, I provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space to allow for healing and growth. If you are a teen or woman going through a difficult situation, I can help you find your voice, build confidence, overcome self-doubt, and implement boundaries through effective communication.
(515) 400-0165 View (515) 400-0165
Photo of Ann VanDenTop - Peace of Mind Counseling Services, LLC, MSE, LMHC, NCC, BCTP-II, EMDR, Counselor
Peace of Mind Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MSE, LMHC, NCC, BCTP-II, EMDR
Verified Verified
Indianola, IA 50125
In the face of life's challenges, I am privileged to assist you on your path toward strength and resilience, guiding you to reclaim your Peace of Mind. Whether you are grappling with Life Transitions, Divorce, Work-related concerns, LGBTQAA+ related issues, Anger, Stress, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Relationship struggles, Trauma, or Abuse Recovery, I offer evidence-based services to assist you in processing and overcoming the impact these challenges have on your life.
In the face of life's challenges, I am privileged to assist you on your path toward strength and resilience, guiding you to reclaim your Peace of Mind. Whether you are grappling with Life Transitions, Divorce, Work-related concerns, LGBTQAA+ related issues, Anger, Stress, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Relationship struggles, Trauma, or Abuse Recovery, I offer evidence-based services to assist you in processing and overcoming the impact these challenges have on your life.
(515) 582-8841 View (515) 582-8841
Photo of Lynn Moore, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lynn Moore
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianola, IA 50125
If you are looking for help then you have some idea of how you would like things in your life to be different. It may be "I want to feel less depressed and more engaged with life." It may be related to eating issues; whether anorexia, bulimia, overeating, or obsession with healthy food. Depression, anxiety and other emotions are so much a part of eating issues and all will prevent you from making the changes you cannot seem to without help. Depression and anxiety in general can keep you from having the life you so desire and life losses can also keep you stuck in the past. We all want to find joy and meaning in our present life.
If you are looking for help then you have some idea of how you would like things in your life to be different. It may be "I want to feel less depressed and more engaged with life." It may be related to eating issues; whether anorexia, bulimia, overeating, or obsession with healthy food. Depression, anxiety and other emotions are so much a part of eating issues and all will prevent you from making the changes you cannot seem to without help. Depression and anxiety in general can keep you from having the life you so desire and life losses can also keep you stuck in the past. We all want to find joy and meaning in our present life.
(515) 320-8747 View (515) 320-8747
Photo of Tonya Gordon, LMHC, Counselor
Tonya Gordon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianola, IA 50125  (Online Only)
I am passionate about creating an accepting environment where clients feel safe sharing their emotional experiences and vulnerabilities while working through challenges. Guided by genuineness, non-bias, and person centered empathy, I sincerely believe clients are the experts within their own lives. Each and every individual possesses their own unique set of experiences, values, beliefs, family system and culture.
I am passionate about creating an accepting environment where clients feel safe sharing their emotional experiences and vulnerabilities while working through challenges. Guided by genuineness, non-bias, and person centered empathy, I sincerely believe clients are the experts within their own lives. Each and every individual possesses their own unique set of experiences, values, beliefs, family system and culture.
(515) 579-5705 View (515) 579-5705
Photo of Nan King, LMHC, CADC, Counselor
Nan King
Counselor, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Indianola, IA 50125
I provide a personalized approach tailored to each persons needs to help you attain the personal growth you desire. Most people experience difficulties at some point in their lives. If you are experiencing problems, there is hope. Counseling provides a safe, warm, supportive relationship where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings, find support, and learn new strategies for coping with situations and emotions. My desire is to work with you to develop new patterns in your life that can lead to healthier coping skills, increased confidence, and a greater sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
I provide a personalized approach tailored to each persons needs to help you attain the personal growth you desire. Most people experience difficulties at some point in their lives. If you are experiencing problems, there is hope. Counseling provides a safe, warm, supportive relationship where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings, find support, and learn new strategies for coping with situations and emotions. My desire is to work with you to develop new patterns in your life that can lead to healthier coping skills, increased confidence, and a greater sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
(515) 778-4440 View (515) 778-4440
Photo of Leanna Brady - Red Couch Counseling LLC., MEd, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Red Couch Counseling LLC.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Indianola, IA 50125
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
(515) 705-0288 View (515) 705-0288
Photo of Isaac Charles Deike, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isaac Charles Deike
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianola, IA 50125
Hello, I'm Isaac Deike, and I'm deeply passionate about supporting the growth and well-being of children and adolescents through social work. With a focus on utilizing solution-focused and strength-based approaches, alongside techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I strive to empower young individuals to navigate life's challenges and discover their inner resilience. I also enjoy working with college level athletes related to sports related stressors.
Hello, I'm Isaac Deike, and I'm deeply passionate about supporting the growth and well-being of children and adolescents through social work. With a focus on utilizing solution-focused and strength-based approaches, alongside techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I strive to empower young individuals to navigate life's challenges and discover their inner resilience. I also enjoy working with college level athletes related to sports related stressors.
(515) 585-6163 View (515) 585-6163
Photo of Amber Wilkins, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Wilkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianola, IA 50125
I have a passion to work with those experiencing challenges or need encouragement, insight and perspective. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to create positive changes and beliefs about your life based on goals you have set for yourself. Together, we can create a treatment plan that is a good fit for you in an effort to find your way to a fulfilling and satisfying life.
I have a passion to work with those experiencing challenges or need encouragement, insight and perspective. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to create positive changes and beliefs about your life based on goals you have set for yourself. Together, we can create a treatment plan that is a good fit for you in an effort to find your way to a fulfilling and satisfying life.
(515) 209-3106 View (515) 209-3106

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jacob Adal - Adal Heart2Heart Psychotherapy Services, Inc., PsyD, Psychologist
Adal Heart2Heart Psychotherapy Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ackworth, IA 50001  (Online Only)
Taking the first step towards personal growth can be incredibly difficult. It can feel overwhelming to acknowledge that you need help and take the necessary steps to seek it out. However, by reading this, you have already accomplished the hardest part of initiating treatment. It takes courage and strength to recognize that you need support, and I commend you for taking this step. One of the most important aspects of my work is creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are active participants in their own healing.
Taking the first step towards personal growth can be incredibly difficult. It can feel overwhelming to acknowledge that you need help and take the necessary steps to seek it out. However, by reading this, you have already accomplished the hardest part of initiating treatment. It takes courage and strength to recognize that you need support, and I commend you for taking this step. One of the most important aspects of my work is creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are active participants in their own healing.
(661) 964-4219 View (661) 964-4219

Online Therapists

Photo of Meagan Froehlich, tLMFT, CCLS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meagan Froehlich
Marriage & Family Therapist, tLMFT, CCLS
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I look forward to helping clients meet their desired goals and achieve personal growth. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Family Services. I then attended Iowa State University and received a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. For fourteen years, I worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist, supporting patients and families who were experiencing acute or chronic illness. I also worked in the Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) and maternity units.
I look forward to helping clients meet their desired goals and achieve personal growth. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Family Services. I then attended Iowa State University and received a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. For fourteen years, I worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist, supporting patients and families who were experiencing acute or chronic illness. I also worked in the Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) and maternity units.
(515) 518-8393 View (515) 518-8393
Photo of Tracy Liptak - Optimae Behavioral Health, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Optimae Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, IA 52556
Optimae Behavioral Health offers services throughout Iowa, including central, eastern, and southern Iowa counties. Our geographic area includes Des Moines, Ames, Marshalltown, Iowa City, Washington, Fairfield, Mt. Pleasant, Burlington, Ft. Madison, Newton, and Keokuk. A full service map can be found here: http://www.optimaelifeservices.com/locations
Optimae Behavioral Health offers services throughout Iowa, including central, eastern, and southern Iowa counties. Our geographic area includes Des Moines, Ames, Marshalltown, Iowa City, Washington, Fairfield, Mt. Pleasant, Burlington, Ft. Madison, Newton, and Keokuk. A full service map can be found here: http://www.optimaelifeservices.com/locations
(641) 200-6039 View (641) 200-6039
Photo of Nicole Scherle Scheidel, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Scherle Scheidel
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
(515) 368-8284 View (515) 368-8284
Photo of Allie Wirth Emdr, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allie Wirth Emdr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Accepting NEW clients starting 7/11/2024. In my practice, I am deeply committed to walking alongside individuals on their journey toward healing and wholeness. Drawing from my own experiences navigating life's challenges, I understand the courage it takes to confront past traumas and the importance of finding a supportive ally along the way. With empathy and compassion at the core of my approach, I create a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts and emotions without judgment or fear.
Accepting NEW clients starting 7/11/2024. In my practice, I am deeply committed to walking alongside individuals on their journey toward healing and wholeness. Drawing from my own experiences navigating life's challenges, I understand the courage it takes to confront past traumas and the importance of finding a supportive ally along the way. With empathy and compassion at the core of my approach, I create a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts and emotions without judgment or fear.
(515) 417-3212 View (515) 417-3212
Photo of Joseli Alves-Dunkerson - Relationship & Intimacy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist
Relationship & Intimacy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
We are starting to also see kids and teens for $40/session. Scheduling is available online through our website. Do you feel sad and worried? Are you seeking personal growth or facing a personal crisis? Are you feeling stuck with the pandemic? Or maybe trying to overcome past experiences? Maybe you are dealing with issues related to your relationships, or going through intimacy issues? Or trying to better understand the online dating scene? Or would you prefer to participate in online group therapy or workshops to learn practical life strategies to deal with common problems?
We are starting to also see kids and teens for $40/session. Scheduling is available online through our website. Do you feel sad and worried? Are you seeking personal growth or facing a personal crisis? Are you feeling stuck with the pandemic? Or maybe trying to overcome past experiences? Maybe you are dealing with issues related to your relationships, or going through intimacy issues? Or trying to better understand the online dating scene? Or would you prefer to participate in online group therapy or workshops to learn practical life strategies to deal with common problems?
(515) 297-7051 View (515) 297-7051
Photo of Tracy Swartzlander, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Swartzlander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Windsor Heights, IA 50324
I have worked with children and families for over 25 years in a multitude of capacities. I strive to meet my clients where they are and offer the most effective treatment approaches possible. I have extensive training and experience in working with those who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, Divorce and Blended Family Issues and parenting difficulties. I offer individual therapy and family therapy and work primarily with ages 10 to adult.
I have worked with children and families for over 25 years in a multitude of capacities. I strive to meet my clients where they are and offer the most effective treatment approaches possible. I have extensive training and experience in working with those who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, Divorce and Blended Family Issues and parenting difficulties. I offer individual therapy and family therapy and work primarily with ages 10 to adult.
(515) 606-1509 View (515) 606-1509
Photo of Heidi Lohff, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Lohff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional trauma, or self-doubt? I help people develop the coping and communication skills needed to effectively manage the symptoms of a mental health challenge. We’ll connect online via telehealth sessions designed to help you heal from past trauma, uncover strengths, improve relationships, and just feel better. I’m a therapist at Embrace Health, a virtual mental health clinic that connects people to therapists and psychiatric specialists. It’s easy to sign up and get started.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional trauma, or self-doubt? I help people develop the coping and communication skills needed to effectively manage the symptoms of a mental health challenge. We’ll connect online via telehealth sessions designed to help you heal from past trauma, uncover strengths, improve relationships, and just feel better. I’m a therapist at Embrace Health, a virtual mental health clinic that connects people to therapists and psychiatric specialists. It’s easy to sign up and get started.
(515) 972-9938 View (515) 972-9938
Photo of Emily M Johnson, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily M Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I enjoy working with teens (14+) through older adults who are going through life transitions, struggling with body image & self-esteem, managing stress, worrying about the future or feeling stuck in the past, feeling sad/down/out of it, having trouble with resentment or irritability, and/or having difficulty in relationships. I believe in treating others with kindness and compassion, collaboration with you, & supporting & guiding you within your current experiences by utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques to meet you where you're at in the moment. I especially enjoy incorporating humor into sessions.
I enjoy working with teens (14+) through older adults who are going through life transitions, struggling with body image & self-esteem, managing stress, worrying about the future or feeling stuck in the past, feeling sad/down/out of it, having trouble with resentment or irritability, and/or having difficulty in relationships. I believe in treating others with kindness and compassion, collaboration with you, & supporting & guiding you within your current experiences by utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques to meet you where you're at in the moment. I especially enjoy incorporating humor into sessions.
(515) 679-1916 x215 View (515) 679-1916 x215
Photo of Beverly Robinson, MS, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Beverly Robinson
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IA 50702  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed by intense bouts of guilt, anger, shame and fear? Trapped. I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Acute Life Challenges, Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression. Through our work together, clients will learn techniques to reduce intensity and practical resources to address persistent emotions. Allowing clients to be more present and achieve a new state of balance in their lives.
Overwhelmed by intense bouts of guilt, anger, shame and fear? Trapped. I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Acute Life Challenges, Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression. Through our work together, clients will learn techniques to reduce intensity and practical resources to address persistent emotions. Allowing clients to be more present and achieve a new state of balance in their lives.
(319) 220-0014 View (319) 220-0014
Photo of Jeni Nash - Jeni Nash,  LISW - Anxiety, Trauma and Depression, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeni Nash, LISW - Anxiety, Trauma and Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
(515) 221-8194 View (515) 221-8194
Photo of Dr. Tracy Mallett, PsyD, IPC, HSP, Psychologist
Dr. Tracy Mallett
Psychologist, PsyD, IPC, HSP
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
Welcome! >< Book with me now by clicking on my website! >< Do stress, anxiety, or uncertainty weigh you down? You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. As a compassionate psychologist, I specialize in helping individuals just like you find clarity and healing. I am Level II trained in the Gottman Method, and utilize this extensively with couples. My clients are learning to master such issues as overcoming depression; trauma recovery; anxiety reduction; managing existential and identity issues, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and improving communication.
Welcome! >< Book with me now by clicking on my website! >< Do stress, anxiety, or uncertainty weigh you down? You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. As a compassionate psychologist, I specialize in helping individuals just like you find clarity and healing. I am Level II trained in the Gottman Method, and utilize this extensively with couples. My clients are learning to master such issues as overcoming depression; trauma recovery; anxiety reduction; managing existential and identity issues, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and improving communication.
(515) 690-7312 View (515) 690-7312

See more therapy options for Indianola

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Indianola, IA

< 10

Therapists in Indianola, IA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
88% Depression
88% Trauma and PTSD
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
75% Life Transitions
63% Grief

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Wellmark BCBS
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Indianola, IA see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Indianola?

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.