Therapists in Ridgefield, WA

Photo of Patrice A Jacob, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Patrice A Jacob
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
You may be wondering how to find a therapist who is right for you. I believe you should feel respected, heard, and understood and be able to trust that your therapist can help you. I invite you to meet with me to find out if I am the right fit for you. My approach incorporates a variety of psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment therapy and Emotion-Focused therapy. I work with older teens, adults, and elder adults. We typically develop treatment strategies together.
You may be wondering how to find a therapist who is right for you. I believe you should feel respected, heard, and understood and be able to trust that your therapist can help you. I invite you to meet with me to find out if I am the right fit for you. My approach incorporates a variety of psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment therapy and Emotion-Focused therapy. I work with older teens, adults, and elder adults. We typically develop treatment strategies together.
(360) 228-2556 View (360) 228-2556
Magnolia Behavioral and Holistic Health
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Magnolia Behavioral and Holistic Health has current availability. Magnolia Behavioral and Holistic Health is an all inclusive, safe and non-judgmental telehealth agency. MBHH clinicians provide our clients with an individualized therapy experience of feeling understood, heard, and safe as you work towards your goals. Our clinicians have specialities with BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women’s issues, men’s issues, teen, adolescents, chronic health issues, couples, depression and life transitions.
Magnolia Behavioral and Holistic Health has current availability. Magnolia Behavioral and Holistic Health is an all inclusive, safe and non-judgmental telehealth agency. MBHH clinicians provide our clients with an individualized therapy experience of feeling understood, heard, and safe as you work towards your goals. Our clinicians have specialities with BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women’s issues, men’s issues, teen, adolescents, chronic health issues, couples, depression and life transitions.
(360) 938-5900 View (360) 938-5900
Photo of Jenny Sites, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jenny Sites
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Waitlist for new clients
One of the beautiful things about counseling is having the privilege to hear individual's stories. Each therapeutic interaction presents with unique history, strengths, and concerns. I operate primarily from an Interpersonal orientation which looks at the counseling relationship as a "safe haven" to facilitate the change each client desires. I believe that relationship - with self and with others - heals. I strive to hold space and actively participate with each client desiring change, counseling and working toward congruence of body, mind and spirit.
One of the beautiful things about counseling is having the privilege to hear individual's stories. Each therapeutic interaction presents with unique history, strengths, and concerns. I operate primarily from an Interpersonal orientation which looks at the counseling relationship as a "safe haven" to facilitate the change each client desires. I believe that relationship - with self and with others - heals. I strive to hold space and actively participate with each client desiring change, counseling and working toward congruence of body, mind and spirit.
(360) 499-0765 View (360) 499-0765
Photo of Linnea Miller, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Linnea Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
In this chaotic world, I want to help you be able to say "things may not be okay - but I'm okay". Let's work together to find your inner-peace and strength.
In this chaotic world, I want to help you be able to say "things may not be okay - but I'm okay". Let's work together to find your inner-peace and strength.
(360) 732-8371 View (360) 732-8371
Photo of Kathleen Anne Hittner-McConahy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Anne Hittner-McConahy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Hello my name is Kathleen and I am Marriage and Family Therapist offering in person and virtual appointments. I have a passion for providing a nonjudgmental and safe space. I offer a collaborative approach to working with others and value the importance of gaining a deep understanding of one’s emotional history and helping to align behaviors with values. I work with individuals ages 13 and up and use a variety of treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Family Systems Therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Hello my name is Kathleen and I am Marriage and Family Therapist offering in person and virtual appointments. I have a passion for providing a nonjudgmental and safe space. I offer a collaborative approach to working with others and value the importance of gaining a deep understanding of one’s emotional history and helping to align behaviors with values. I work with individuals ages 13 and up and use a variety of treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Family Systems Therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
(360) 900-1126 View (360) 900-1126
Photo of Samantha C Cunningham, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Samantha C Cunningham
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Not accepting new clients
People thrive when they are connected to others, but the pain, stress, and struggles of life often leave us feeling very alone. My practice includes individuals, couples, and families who are wanting to find solace in their experiences. I connect with clients by creating safety, understanding their unique point of view, focusing on their strengths, and collaborating with them to build a plan for treatment. My clients find space in their world to find hope in the midst of pain, courageously explore change, set goals, embrace healthy beliefs, learn new skills, make positive life choices, achieve balance, and heal.
People thrive when they are connected to others, but the pain, stress, and struggles of life often leave us feeling very alone. My practice includes individuals, couples, and families who are wanting to find solace in their experiences. I connect with clients by creating safety, understanding their unique point of view, focusing on their strengths, and collaborating with them to build a plan for treatment. My clients find space in their world to find hope in the midst of pain, courageously explore change, set goals, embrace healthy beliefs, learn new skills, make positive life choices, achieve balance, and heal.
(360) 234-3575 View (360) 234-3575
Photo of Christine S Suffield, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine S Suffield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
Life is not like a box of chocolates. Life is like a roller coaster with ups and downs, highs and lows, successes and failures. Therapy is about navigating through it. Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse and Early Childhood Traumas interfere with everyday functioning and cause us to make decisions that do not serve us well. At one point, most of our unhealthy coping tools were survival skills. They were beneficial and warranted at the time but now interfere with creating a life worth living. It's time to challenge those outdated coping tools with more useful, practical and efficient ones.
Life is not like a box of chocolates. Life is like a roller coaster with ups and downs, highs and lows, successes and failures. Therapy is about navigating through it. Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse and Early Childhood Traumas interfere with everyday functioning and cause us to make decisions that do not serve us well. At one point, most of our unhealthy coping tools were survival skills. They were beneficial and warranted at the time but now interfere with creating a life worth living. It's time to challenge those outdated coping tools with more useful, practical and efficient ones.
(661) 463-3746 View (661) 463-3746
Photo of Mary Kines, MA, LPC-A
Mary Kines
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
Therapy is not a one stop fix but a step towards unearthing self-efficacy, self-esteem, and reliance. Life can be hard, challenging, and difficult, no one should have to suffer and struggle through those obstacles and barriers because there is help. Many times the first step is the hardest, which is acknowledging a problem. I provide a listening experience with empathy and techniques to help in your journey of healing, discovery and understanding. With a variety of therapeutic modules to devise a treatment plan fashioned for your specific needs and requirements.
Therapy is not a one stop fix but a step towards unearthing self-efficacy, self-esteem, and reliance. Life can be hard, challenging, and difficult, no one should have to suffer and struggle through those obstacles and barriers because there is help. Many times the first step is the hardest, which is acknowledging a problem. I provide a listening experience with empathy and techniques to help in your journey of healing, discovery and understanding. With a variety of therapeutic modules to devise a treatment plan fashioned for your specific needs and requirements.
(360) 370-3969 View (360) 370-3969
Photo of Ashley Marie Bublitz, MA, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Ashley Marie Bublitz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
As a clinician, I believe that the therapeutic process is a collaborative one. You are the expert of your own life and experiences. Because of this, I believe that your therapy experience should be tailored to you and your needs. I specialize in working with individuals in relationships that don’t feel fulfilling or who struggle with feelings of depression, anxiety, disconnection from thoughts and emotions, low self-esteem, boundary setting, and grief.
As a clinician, I believe that the therapeutic process is a collaborative one. You are the expert of your own life and experiences. Because of this, I believe that your therapy experience should be tailored to you and your needs. I specialize in working with individuals in relationships that don’t feel fulfilling or who struggle with feelings of depression, anxiety, disconnection from thoughts and emotions, low self-esteem, boundary setting, and grief.
(253) 600-4401 View (253) 600-4401
Photo of Tinamarie Fish - Grief/Loss Trauma ADHD Tinamarie Fish LMHC, LMHC, MHP, CMHS, CCTP, Counselor
Grief/Loss Trauma ADHD Tinamarie Fish LMHC
Counselor, LMHC, MHP, CMHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
We have availability! I am the owner and Clinical Supervisor of Magnolia Behavioral and Holistic Health. As your clinician, I will provide a warm, safe, non judgmental space. My therapeutic perspective is a holistic and health minded approach to counseling while focusing on client’s individual needs. My approach may include some humor (at appropriate times), validate clients, witness their feelings, and to truly hear what they are experiencing. My specializations include trauma, grief/loss, women’s and teen issues.
We have availability! I am the owner and Clinical Supervisor of Magnolia Behavioral and Holistic Health. As your clinician, I will provide a warm, safe, non judgmental space. My therapeutic perspective is a holistic and health minded approach to counseling while focusing on client’s individual needs. My approach may include some humor (at appropriate times), validate clients, witness their feelings, and to truly hear what they are experiencing. My specializations include trauma, grief/loss, women’s and teen issues.
(360) 215-2798 View (360) 215-2798
Photo of Ty Benson, LSWAIC, CSWA, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ty Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, CSWA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
Assisting those with who have lived experience with trauma, oppression, relationships, addiction to substances/gambling and whatever difficulties or pain one may be experiencing. I appreciate being a position to be able to assist others with navigating through the healing and therapeutic process. As a therapist utilizing culturally relevant approaches to my clinical interventions is imperative to the services I provide. The service I will provide will be individualistic and together we will determine the best modalities to use moving forward. Assuring my client is respected and heard.
Assisting those with who have lived experience with trauma, oppression, relationships, addiction to substances/gambling and whatever difficulties or pain one may be experiencing. I appreciate being a position to be able to assist others with navigating through the healing and therapeutic process. As a therapist utilizing culturally relevant approaches to my clinical interventions is imperative to the services I provide. The service I will provide will be individualistic and together we will determine the best modalities to use moving forward. Assuring my client is respected and heard.
(360) 429-0821 View (360) 429-0821
Photo of Rachel Storm, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Rachel Storm
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Healing is possible. There have been times in my own life when it felt impossible to experience the life I was meant to live, the joy we are meant to experience, spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health. If you are there right now, or you feel like you are chained to your past and patterns that keep you from moving forward into hope, peace, and joy, you can overcome. I would love to partner with you on your journey forward.
Healing is possible. There have been times in my own life when it felt impossible to experience the life I was meant to live, the joy we are meant to experience, spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health. If you are there right now, or you feel like you are chained to your past and patterns that keep you from moving forward into hope, peace, and joy, you can overcome. I would love to partner with you on your journey forward.
(360) 276-9425 View (360) 276-9425
Photo of Mikaela Elaine Hines, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mikaela Elaine Hines
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Not accepting new clients
Hello, my name is Mikaela! I am a passionate and relational therapist who believes every individual has a unique and valuable story to tell. I aim to help individuals process their pain while also learning to celebrate their strengths and view themselves with greater acceptance, love, and compassion. In my work, I create space for you to share your story as you are ready, offering gentle direction and helpful coping skills as you learn to navigate life’s challenges.
Hello, my name is Mikaela! I am a passionate and relational therapist who believes every individual has a unique and valuable story to tell. I aim to help individuals process their pain while also learning to celebrate their strengths and view themselves with greater acceptance, love, and compassion. In my work, I create space for you to share your story as you are ready, offering gentle direction and helpful coping skills as you learn to navigate life’s challenges.
(360) 967-9946 View (360) 967-9946
Photo of Ariel Villaseñor, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Ariel Villaseñor
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Ariel! As a therapist, I consider it a joy and a privilege to partner with kids (11+), teens, and adults in working through the inevitable challenges of life. I believe that each person has the capacity to change and to heal no matter the hand they have been dealt or what they have experienced. With this perspective, I aim to collaboratively work with each person in gaining insight into their own strengths, as well as perspective on their pain, within the context of a safe relationship.
Hi, I’m Ariel! As a therapist, I consider it a joy and a privilege to partner with kids (11+), teens, and adults in working through the inevitable challenges of life. I believe that each person has the capacity to change and to heal no matter the hand they have been dealt or what they have experienced. With this perspective, I aim to collaboratively work with each person in gaining insight into their own strengths, as well as perspective on their pain, within the context of a safe relationship.
(360) 615-3487 View (360) 615-3487
Photo of Stephanie Podasca, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Podasca
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
I am here to help you overcome difficult experiences, connect to your authentic self, and find freedom so that you can build the life you truly want. I work with adults who are struggling with trauma-related emotional, relational, and behavioral issues such as anxiety, addiction, and relationship issues. The clients who have the best outcomes with me are open to exploring their difficult emotional patterns, behaviors, and relationships and are willing to try new things in and outside of our sessions. My ideal client wants to connect with a real person, reconnect to their mind and body and ultimately expand their coping tool kit!
I am here to help you overcome difficult experiences, connect to your authentic self, and find freedom so that you can build the life you truly want. I work with adults who are struggling with trauma-related emotional, relational, and behavioral issues such as anxiety, addiction, and relationship issues. The clients who have the best outcomes with me are open to exploring their difficult emotional patterns, behaviors, and relationships and are willing to try new things in and outside of our sessions. My ideal client wants to connect with a real person, reconnect to their mind and body and ultimately expand their coping tool kit!
(971) 206-6443 View (971) 206-6443
Photo of Dr. Greg Peterson, PhD, LPC, LMHC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Greg Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
I am a proud professional counselor. In the last ten years of my career I have worked with university students and individuals with severe persistent mental illness. I was drawn to working in higher education because university students are often times ready to change and dive into working on growing as people and developing new patterns of behavior. I enjoy helping anyone willing to take a few moments to try an experiment with their thoughts, or try something new. It may be a bit anxiety provoking at times but it helps us all to grow and change. I aspire to be an expert in helping clients find relief from their issues.
I am a proud professional counselor. In the last ten years of my career I have worked with university students and individuals with severe persistent mental illness. I was drawn to working in higher education because university students are often times ready to change and dive into working on growing as people and developing new patterns of behavior. I enjoy helping anyone willing to take a few moments to try an experiment with their thoughts, or try something new. It may be a bit anxiety provoking at times but it helps us all to grow and change. I aspire to be an expert in helping clients find relief from their issues.
(360) 873-5622 View (360) 873-5622
Photo of Elizabeth C Gentzkow, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth C Gentzkow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
Regain control from anxiety, find peace from feeling overwhelmed, develop healthier relationships, and align your life with values for greater meaning. How we experience our emotions, feelings, and thoughts has a profound impact on how we approach life. I will show you a way to break free from anxiety's control so you're better able to take steps toward the life you want.
Regain control from anxiety, find peace from feeling overwhelmed, develop healthier relationships, and align your life with values for greater meaning. How we experience our emotions, feelings, and thoughts has a profound impact on how we approach life. I will show you a way to break free from anxiety's control so you're better able to take steps toward the life you want.
(971) 339-0161 View (971) 339-0161
Photo of Christine Teresa Yoshida - Christine Yoshida Counseling, MS, NCC, LMHC, LPC, NBPT, Counselor
Christine Yoshida Counseling
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC, LPC, NBPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642  (Online Only)
Hi! I am so glad you found my page and are taking the time to explore what you may be needing in your life. I value the safety and trust created in the relationship between a therapist and client. I believe we are all humans and are wired for healing, growth and change. I would love to be part of your journey. I specialize in eating disorders and work with clients wanting to heal their relationship with food, fitness and body image. In addition, I help individuals come back or rediscover their core authentic selves, relationship dynamics, sex and navigate non-monogamy/polyamory.
Hi! I am so glad you found my page and are taking the time to explore what you may be needing in your life. I value the safety and trust created in the relationship between a therapist and client. I believe we are all humans and are wired for healing, growth and change. I would love to be part of your journey. I specialize in eating disorders and work with clients wanting to heal their relationship with food, fitness and body image. In addition, I help individuals come back or rediscover their core authentic selves, relationship dynamics, sex and navigate non-monogamy/polyamory.
(360) 979-1150 View (360) 979-1150
Photo of Chelsea S Bates, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsea S Bates
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
The common misconception is that therapy is for "crazy" or "sick" people. Instead I believe it is a chance to work with clients on how to use their challenges as opportunities for change and growth. It is also a time to better understand our view of the world, examine any relationship issues, and become better versions of ourselves. I focus on each individual's unique characteristics, instead of what a diagnosis may say about them.
The common misconception is that therapy is for "crazy" or "sick" people. Instead I believe it is a chance to work with clients on how to use their challenges as opportunities for change and growth. It is also a time to better understand our view of the world, examine any relationship issues, and become better versions of ourselves. I focus on each individual's unique characteristics, instead of what a diagnosis may say about them.
(360) 529-3301 View (360) 529-3301
Photo of Elizabeth Dammarell, LMHC, CDP, NCC, MA, Counselor
Elizabeth Dammarell
Counselor, LMHC, CDP, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Waitlist for new clients
Creating a safe space for individuals to thrive, grow, and find courage to tell their story, is what I believe my role to be as a counselor. Often times we run from our pain and avoid facing what has been hurting us all these years. It is my belief that counseling provides a neutral and compassionate environment to process through this pain, and finally discover the relief we have been looking for. My hope as your counselor is to help you develop a deeper awareness and personal insight so that you may live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Creating a safe space for individuals to thrive, grow, and find courage to tell their story, is what I believe my role to be as a counselor. Often times we run from our pain and avoid facing what has been hurting us all these years. It is my belief that counseling provides a neutral and compassionate environment to process through this pain, and finally discover the relief we have been looking for. My hope as your counselor is to help you develop a deeper awareness and personal insight so that you may live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
(360) 763-0549 View (360) 763-0549
1

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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ridgefield, WA

60+

Average cost per session

$155

Therapists in Ridgefield, WA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
85% Depression
84% Trauma and PTSD
81% Coping Skills
81% Self Esteem
77% Stress
76% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
62% PacificSource
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Ridgefield, WA see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
15% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ridgefield?

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.