Therapists in Woodstock, VA

Photo of Dr. Amy Butler Mitchell, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Amy Butler Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, VA 22664  (Online Only)
People can experience much pain in the navigation of their personal relationships. Turmoil in relating to others can cause stress & anxiety as we humans were created for healthy connection to others. Finding out who we are as individuals & strengthening our personal identity sets the stage for healthy family, friend, & romantic relationships. I assist my clients in identifying unhealthy patterns in their relational habits. Boundaries are difficult to set & keep, & I teach clients the skills needed to increase healthy relating to others which can help to reduce stress & increase joy in life.
People can experience much pain in the navigation of their personal relationships. Turmoil in relating to others can cause stress & anxiety as we humans were created for healthy connection to others. Finding out who we are as individuals & strengthening our personal identity sets the stage for healthy family, friend, & romantic relationships. I assist my clients in identifying unhealthy patterns in their relational habits. Boundaries are difficult to set & keep, & I teach clients the skills needed to increase healthy relating to others which can help to reduce stress & increase joy in life.
(540) 698-3423 View (540) 698-3423
Photo of Holly P. Markley, MEd, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly P. Markley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, VA 22664  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting telehealth clients in Virginia. It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. My approach is empathetic, supportive, direct, accepting, trauma-focused, and strength-based with a good dose of humor when appropriate.
Accepting telehealth clients in Virginia. It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. My approach is empathetic, supportive, direct, accepting, trauma-focused, and strength-based with a good dose of humor when appropriate.
(540) 506-3399 View (540) 506-3399
Photo of Deja Gordon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deja Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, VA 22664
I first want to say congratulations on taking a big step towards your mental health and putting what you need to heal first. In a safe and supportive atmosphere I strive to listen to the needs of each of my clients. I use a variety of methods and techniques to meet the needs of each client. My purpose is to help clients achieve success in their lives by providing tools for coping with their current situations. My goal is to provide you with the best mental health care possible in a courteous and efficient manner. I understand your need for confidentiality, trust and respect.
I first want to say congratulations on taking a big step towards your mental health and putting what you need to heal first. In a safe and supportive atmosphere I strive to listen to the needs of each of my clients. I use a variety of methods and techniques to meet the needs of each client. My purpose is to help clients achieve success in their lives by providing tools for coping with their current situations. My goal is to provide you with the best mental health care possible in a courteous and efficient manner. I understand your need for confidentiality, trust and respect.
(571) 605-6128 View (571) 605-6128
Photo of Lofton V Anderson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lofton V Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, VA 22664
I have nearly 35 years of experience working with older adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, dual diagnosis, gastric by-pass surgery, work-related injuries and trauma, digital health, personal growth, anger management, and issues associated with aging. I am committed to assisting clients in meeting their personal goals in a supportive, affirming, non-judgmental environment. I practice gender affirming therapy. For those who are comfortable with it, my canine partner Rocket (see the gallery) can join us for animal-assisted therapy.
I have nearly 35 years of experience working with older adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, dual diagnosis, gastric by-pass surgery, work-related injuries and trauma, digital health, personal growth, anger management, and issues associated with aging. I am committed to assisting clients in meeting their personal goals in a supportive, affirming, non-judgmental environment. I practice gender affirming therapy. For those who are comfortable with it, my canine partner Rocket (see the gallery) can join us for animal-assisted therapy.
(540) 870-5478 View (540) 870-5478
Photo of Deveney Elizabeth Quinney, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deveney Elizabeth Quinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Woodstock, VA 22664
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals and believe that the therapeutic relationship can be a catalyst for an array of life affirming changes. Every individual has the right to find peace, joy and satisfaction in life. Often our inner dialogues, messages we've received from others, as well as traumatic and painful life experiences can interfere with our ability to find peace. In our work together, my goal will be to assist you in reaching whatever it is that you define as the best life for you.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals and believe that the therapeutic relationship can be a catalyst for an array of life affirming changes. Every individual has the right to find peace, joy and satisfaction in life. Often our inner dialogues, messages we've received from others, as well as traumatic and painful life experiences can interfere with our ability to find peace. In our work together, my goal will be to assist you in reaching whatever it is that you define as the best life for you.
(540) 534-0313 View (540) 534-0313
Photo of Tracy Knight, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodstock, VA 22664
Are you struggling with grief, sadness, or depression? Do you feel like it takes extra effort to get things accomplished, or just to get through the day? Do you feel overwhelmed with anxiety about everything, or have trouble obtaining adequate sleep? Things can get better, but it is hard to do it alone. I am so thankful that you have chosen to reach out for support. I am a LPC specializing in work with adults. Therapy can be enlightening and transformative when you are paired with the right therapist for you.
Are you struggling with grief, sadness, or depression? Do you feel like it takes extra effort to get things accomplished, or just to get through the day? Do you feel overwhelmed with anxiety about everything, or have trouble obtaining adequate sleep? Things can get better, but it is hard to do it alone. I am so thankful that you have chosen to reach out for support. I am a LPC specializing in work with adults. Therapy can be enlightening and transformative when you are paired with the right therapist for you.
(540) 831-3982 View (540) 831-3982
Photo of Donna Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodstock, VA 22664
Are you ready to make changes in your life? Day to day life can be stressful and downright overwhelming. Add in past trauma and childhood wounds and you may feel you will never get better. I believe the best healing happens when we develop healthy relationships with ourselves and others. I offer a safe place and my compassionate presence so you can tell your story and learn to thrive. Making the first or next step in your healing takes courage and I would be honored to be part of your journey. You'll have the opportunity to explore connections with nature, horses and yourself while learning a variety of regulation skills.
Are you ready to make changes in your life? Day to day life can be stressful and downright overwhelming. Add in past trauma and childhood wounds and you may feel you will never get better. I believe the best healing happens when we develop healthy relationships with ourselves and others. I offer a safe place and my compassionate presence so you can tell your story and learn to thrive. Making the first or next step in your healing takes courage and I would be honored to be part of your journey. You'll have the opportunity to explore connections with nature, horses and yourself while learning a variety of regulation skills.
(540) 554-6792 View (540) 554-6792
Photo of Rachel Cerretani, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Cerretani
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, VA 22664
Do you find yourself overthinking? Are you a people pleaser who feels their needs are unimportant? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event. This can be exhausting and may be impacting your current relationships, job functioning, or daily mood. I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to trust and be vulnerable with others. My goal in our work together is that you can be yourself, while feeling supported and cared for.
Do you find yourself overthinking? Are you a people pleaser who feels their needs are unimportant? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event. This can be exhausting and may be impacting your current relationships, job functioning, or daily mood. I understand that sometimes it can be difficult to trust and be vulnerable with others. My goal in our work together is that you can be yourself, while feeling supported and cared for.
(540) 384-4435 View (540) 384-4435
Photo of Cheryl Beaudoin-Stehlin - Center for Counseling and Growth, PLC, LPC, NCC, , Licensed Professional Counselor
Center for Counseling and Growth, PLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodstock, VA 22664
We enjoy working with clients who are motivated to grow, change, and seek overall emotional health and wellness through the counseling process. We will create a safe and supportive environment so that our clients are able to set and meet their goals without feeling judged or criticized. Our clients "drive" the counseling process, while we gently support them on their road to personal growth.
We enjoy working with clients who are motivated to grow, change, and seek overall emotional health and wellness through the counseling process. We will create a safe and supportive environment so that our clients are able to set and meet their goals without feeling judged or criticized. Our clients "drive" the counseling process, while we gently support them on their road to personal growth.
(540) 246-0369 View (540) 246-0369
Photo of Lauren Hepler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Hepler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodstock, VA 22664  (Online Only)
Are you a mom who has found yourself feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or worried? Are you looking for support to help you cope with not feeling like yourself, low self-esteem, anxiety, parenting stress, or life as a newly postpartum mom? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, Psychotherapy for Women is the right place for you. Whether it's life stressors, limited support, relationships and parenting, pregnancy, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, worry, or changes in mood, Psychotherapy for Women is here to help.
Are you a mom who has found yourself feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or worried? Are you looking for support to help you cope with not feeling like yourself, low self-esteem, anxiety, parenting stress, or life as a newly postpartum mom? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, Psychotherapy for Women is the right place for you. Whether it's life stressors, limited support, relationships and parenting, pregnancy, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, worry, or changes in mood, Psychotherapy for Women is here to help.
(540) 274-0616 View (540) 274-0616
Photo of Travis Kessell, MA, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Travis Kessell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, VA 22664
In our lives, each of us will need the strength of another person, though, allowing another person to help takes great courage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a place where the courage to ask for help is met with compassion and patience as we embark on the path to healing together. I help clients with many common struggles (e.g., anxiety, depression, etc.) make the changes they want for a more fulfilling life. I work with children as young as 10 years old up through adults in individual, couple, and family settings.
In our lives, each of us will need the strength of another person, though, allowing another person to help takes great courage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a place where the courage to ask for help is met with compassion and patience as we embark on the path to healing together. I help clients with many common struggles (e.g., anxiety, depression, etc.) make the changes they want for a more fulfilling life. I work with children as young as 10 years old up through adults in individual, couple, and family settings.
(540) 426-3060 View (540) 426-3060

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brittany Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Maurertown, VA 22644
My name is Brittany Williams. I am an LPC in Virginia and I mostly use cognitive-behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide range of people of all ages and conditions from kids to teenagers to adults to older adults, who are experiencing anything from depression to anxiety to life changes such as grief and loss or anything in between! I look forward to working with you! I have worked with clients of all ages but enjoy mostly working with kids and teenagers. I feel like they have a lot going on in life that is very difficult to navigate and can have a lot of depression and anxiety on top of everything else.
My name is Brittany Williams. I am an LPC in Virginia and I mostly use cognitive-behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with a wide range of people of all ages and conditions from kids to teenagers to adults to older adults, who are experiencing anything from depression to anxiety to life changes such as grief and loss or anything in between! I look forward to working with you! I have worked with clients of all ages but enjoy mostly working with kids and teenagers. I feel like they have a lot going on in life that is very difficult to navigate and can have a lot of depression and anxiety on top of everything else.
(540) 712-6314 View (540) 712-6314
Photo of Lucy Banks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucy Banks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maurertown, VA 22644  (Online Only)
If you are feeling anxious, depressed, angry or confused.... If your relationships are not working well.... If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed.... If you are concerned about your child, teen, or young adult child.... These are some of the concerns that I work with clients to resolve every day. I will work with you to better understand the difficulty you are having and come up with strategies and solutions to improve your situation.
If you are feeling anxious, depressed, angry or confused.... If your relationships are not working well.... If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed.... If you are concerned about your child, teen, or young adult child.... These are some of the concerns that I work with clients to resolve every day. I will work with you to better understand the difficulty you are having and come up with strategies and solutions to improve your situation.
(540) 986-4183 View (540) 986-4183
Photo of Eva Pastalkova, PhD, Psychologist
Eva Pastalkova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Valley, VA 22652  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach involves delving into the root causes of a person's struggles and issues rather than just trying to swiftly alleviate the symptoms. Through careful exploration, we gain insights into the origins of these challenges, which then serve as a roadmap for addressing them effectively. I practice Jungian and Psychoanalytic psychotherapy, where we explore your emotions, the dynamics of your close relationships and friendships, the dynamics between you and me, your family history, and also pay attention to your daydreams and dreams.
My therapeutic approach involves delving into the root causes of a person's struggles and issues rather than just trying to swiftly alleviate the symptoms. Through careful exploration, we gain insights into the origins of these challenges, which then serve as a roadmap for addressing them effectively. I practice Jungian and Psychoanalytic psychotherapy, where we explore your emotions, the dynamics of your close relationships and friendships, the dynamics between you and me, your family history, and also pay attention to your daydreams and dreams.
(646) 859-2018 View (646) 859-2018
Photo of Alicia Garrison - Restoring Hope Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Restoring Hope Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strasburg, VA 22657  (Online Only)
I have 18+ years of experience with a wide range of populations and needs. I have helped clients of all ages however, work with only adults at this time. The needs and issues have ranged from at risk/early intervention, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, self esteem, crisis counseling, and many more. The goals of my clients have been to develop effective copings skills and to get help with their own personal mental health journey. Everyone wants to feel supported, not judged, and heard in order to gain back their hope and assurance in their future.
I have 18+ years of experience with a wide range of populations and needs. I have helped clients of all ages however, work with only adults at this time. The needs and issues have ranged from at risk/early intervention, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, self esteem, crisis counseling, and many more. The goals of my clients have been to develop effective copings skills and to get help with their own personal mental health journey. Everyone wants to feel supported, not judged, and heard in order to gain back their hope and assurance in their future.
(540) 235-5073 View (540) 235-5073
Photo of Cassandra Merrick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Merrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Maurertown, VA 22644
Hello! My name is Cassandra Merrick LPC. I am an African American female, who understands the challenges of work life balance. I live by the Golden Rule, of treating others the way I want to be treated. I am eager to help others discover or work through life's obstacles to gain optimum success. Everyone is different so my counseling style will vary depending on the individual.
Hello! My name is Cassandra Merrick LPC. I am an African American female, who understands the challenges of work life balance. I live by the Golden Rule, of treating others the way I want to be treated. I am eager to help others discover or work through life's obstacles to gain optimum success. Everyone is different so my counseling style will vary depending on the individual.
(804) 207-7394 View (804) 207-7394
Photo of Renee Tong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Tong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Valley, VA 22652
Hello, my name is Renee Tong and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Compassion with integrity is the core of my practice. I honor the unique path of everyone that I work with, creating a safe place to produce changes that promote a better quality of life. I work with individuals from ages 18-100 from all walks of life dealing with life transition to mood disorders. My communication style cores a compassionate tone towards my clients in practice. "Happiness can be found in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn the light on." - Albus Dumbledore
Hello, my name is Renee Tong and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Compassion with integrity is the core of my practice. I honor the unique path of everyone that I work with, creating a safe place to produce changes that promote a better quality of life. I work with individuals from ages 18-100 from all walks of life dealing with life transition to mood disorders. My communication style cores a compassionate tone towards my clients in practice. "Happiness can be found in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn the light on." - Albus Dumbledore
(571) 545-5980 View (571) 545-5980
Photo of Nathaniel Alexander, LPC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Nathaniel Alexander
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms Brook, VA 22660
Hi there! I am Nathaniel "Nate" Alexander, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 26 years of experience. I am also a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in Virginia. I specialize in the areas of addiction, codependency, life transitions, relapse prevention, and relationship issues, and I utilize treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral, Couples Therapy, Marital, Motivational Interviewing, and Relational therapies. I believe that if a person uses sound common sense, their decision-making efforts and life outcomes will improve.
Hi there! I am Nathaniel "Nate" Alexander, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 26 years of experience. I am also a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in Virginia. I specialize in the areas of addiction, codependency, life transitions, relapse prevention, and relationship issues, and I utilize treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral, Couples Therapy, Marital, Motivational Interviewing, and Relational therapies. I believe that if a person uses sound common sense, their decision-making efforts and life outcomes will improve.
(571) 427-0849 View (571) 427-0849

Online Therapists

Photo of Roxianna Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roxianna Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
Hi, I’m Roxi, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m a compassionate and approachable human and social services professional with more than thirty (30) years of experience supporting folks with disabilities including, mental health, substance abuse, social difficulties, and people in other special needs populations. I’ve assisted individuals, families, and couples as they navigate through trauma, depression, anxiety, and homelessness to a more functional way of life. I understand that we are all unique and experience life’s challenges in our own unique ways.
Hi, I’m Roxi, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m a compassionate and approachable human and social services professional with more than thirty (30) years of experience supporting folks with disabilities including, mental health, substance abuse, social difficulties, and people in other special needs populations. I’ve assisted individuals, families, and couples as they navigate through trauma, depression, anxiety, and homelessness to a more functional way of life. I understand that we are all unique and experience life’s challenges in our own unique ways.
(571) 487-7761 View (571) 487-7761
Photo of Margaret Moira Kappler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Moira Kappler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Not Accepting New Patients. Please reach out and see if there is another good fit at the practice. HMT has many wonderful clinicians! I am comfortable working with many different populations with varying levels of issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and military specific stressors are a small cross-section of the issues I treat. I am a sex-positive, kink informed and trauma informed clinician. I am a laid-back person with a robust, and admittedly sometimes immature, sense of humor who is a big believer in radical acceptance. You can expect these things, and many more during our sessions.
Not Accepting New Patients. Please reach out and see if there is another good fit at the practice. HMT has many wonderful clinicians! I am comfortable working with many different populations with varying levels of issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and military specific stressors are a small cross-section of the issues I treat. I am a sex-positive, kink informed and trauma informed clinician. I am a laid-back person with a robust, and admittedly sometimes immature, sense of humor who is a big believer in radical acceptance. You can expect these things, and many more during our sessions.
(540) 845-6940 View (540) 845-6940

See more therapy options for Woodstock

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Woodstock, VA

10+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Woodstock, VA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
82% Relationship Issues
82% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Family Conflict
73% Self Esteem
64% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
56% Aetna
56% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Woodstock, VA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Woodstock?

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.