Therapists in Ballard, Seattle, WA

Photo of Stephanie Diltz, MSW, LICSW, SUDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Diltz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Do you feel stuck, confused, and unsure of your true purpose? Have difficulty communicating with confidence? Have a strong need and/or calling to explore your inner Self and discover who you truly are? Suffer chronic illness or repeated relationship, health, or job problems? Feel uninspired in a job/career that no longer serves you? You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning!
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Do you feel stuck, confused, and unsure of your true purpose? Have difficulty communicating with confidence? Have a strong need and/or calling to explore your inner Self and discover who you truly are? Suffer chronic illness or repeated relationship, health, or job problems? Feel uninspired in a job/career that no longer serves you? You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning!
(360) 515-9969 View (360) 515-9969
Photo of Nora Nasir, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nora Nasir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel that you may be getting in the way of yourself in your efforts to live a rich and fulfilling life? Maybe you feel unmotivated or disconnected from a sense of joy. Often, this results from a lack of clarity about what matters most to you or even well-intentioned efforts to escape feelings of pain and suffering. I believe that a rich, meaning-filled life includes both incredible highs and inevitable lows. Through the lens of that belief, I seek to help people mindfully, authentically, and compassionately embrace the range of ups and downs that they experience in their lives. Through this, true healing can occur.
Do you ever feel that you may be getting in the way of yourself in your efforts to live a rich and fulfilling life? Maybe you feel unmotivated or disconnected from a sense of joy. Often, this results from a lack of clarity about what matters most to you or even well-intentioned efforts to escape feelings of pain and suffering. I believe that a rich, meaning-filled life includes both incredible highs and inevitable lows. Through the lens of that belief, I seek to help people mindfully, authentically, and compassionately embrace the range of ups and downs that they experience in their lives. Through this, true healing can occur.
(206) 561-9221 View (206) 561-9221
Photo of Jean A Frinak, MDiv, LMFT
Jean A Frinak
MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
Hi. I have been a therapist in private practice for over 30 years. Experience matters in this field! Also I have continued to keep up with the very latest developments, methods and skills that continue to evolve in both individual and couple's work. I have a passion for this learning and contribution. I love my work. Some of the areas that I work with are: anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, grief, work and career transitions, sexuality, conflict, communication, chronic pain and other health challenges, aging, spirituality, creativity, desire for more aliveness and joy...I also teach, facilitate groups, and teach dance.
Hi. I have been a therapist in private practice for over 30 years. Experience matters in this field! Also I have continued to keep up with the very latest developments, methods and skills that continue to evolve in both individual and couple's work. I have a passion for this learning and contribution. I love my work. Some of the areas that I work with are: anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, grief, work and career transitions, sexuality, conflict, communication, chronic pain and other health challenges, aging, spirituality, creativity, desire for more aliveness and joy...I also teach, facilitate groups, and teach dance.
(206) 735-3561 View (206) 735-3561
Photo of Angelica Nevarez, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Angelica Nevarez
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
We have all been in the midst of deep personal and collective transformation over the past years. There is a greater awareness among us all about what is not working both personally and collectively. I am here as a guide to walk with you through this portal of change. I am a trauma-informed therapist and my approach to therapy acknowledges the impact that stressful experiences can have on our mind, body, and spirit. I can support you in releasing any deeply embedded patterns that limit your ability to feel connected and show up fully in the world.
We have all been in the midst of deep personal and collective transformation over the past years. There is a greater awareness among us all about what is not working both personally and collectively. I am here as a guide to walk with you through this portal of change. I am a trauma-informed therapist and my approach to therapy acknowledges the impact that stressful experiences can have on our mind, body, and spirit. I can support you in releasing any deeply embedded patterns that limit your ability to feel connected and show up fully in the world.
(206) 278-9324 View (206) 278-9324
Photo of Grace K. Lautman, MS, CN, LMHC, Counselor
Grace K. Lautman
Counselor, MS, CN, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
My professional life is influenced by my own understanding of what it’s like to seek help and to navigate through painful experiences. I have been described as warm, collaborative, and empathetic, and my priority is creating a space where my clients can truly be themselves. While I have experience supporting many different mental health concerns, I have expertise in eating disorders/disordered eating, trauma/PTSD, as well as anxiety/depression. Myself and the clinicians at my practice work with all identities and backgrounds and hold a value for social justice/anti-oppressive work.
My professional life is influenced by my own understanding of what it’s like to seek help and to navigate through painful experiences. I have been described as warm, collaborative, and empathetic, and my priority is creating a space where my clients can truly be themselves. While I have experience supporting many different mental health concerns, I have expertise in eating disorders/disordered eating, trauma/PTSD, as well as anxiety/depression. Myself and the clinicians at my practice work with all identities and backgrounds and hold a value for social justice/anti-oppressive work.
(206) 488-1696 View (206) 488-1696
Photo of Desey Tziortzis, PsyD, Psychologist
Desey Tziortzis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
Not accepting new clients
As a licensed psychologist, I am dedicated to working with clients to foster personal growth, healing, and overall well-being. I aim to provide a safe and trusting environment, and to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to help make personally meaningful and long-lasting changes. I have a passion for my work and it is an honor and a privilege to work with clients through their process of exploration, growth, and healing.
As a licensed psychologist, I am dedicated to working with clients to foster personal growth, healing, and overall well-being. I aim to provide a safe and trusting environment, and to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to help make personally meaningful and long-lasting changes. I have a passion for my work and it is an honor and a privilege to work with clients through their process of exploration, growth, and healing.
(206) 339-5885 View (206) 339-5885
Photo of Muirenn Leinster, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Muirenn Leinster
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
Accepting new clients for virtual afternoon appointments! Searching for a therapist is difficult, especially while trying to navigate the challenges that brought you here, so I commend you for taking this huge step towards working on your mental health. Living in a state of fight/flight, fear, anxiety, stress, uncertainty, and instability can wreak havoc on the mind and body. Therapy with me means you'll have the chance to gain deeper understandings, insights, and perspectives into what is going on, how to work with various stuck parts of yourself, how to recognize your own power and choices, and how to process difficult feelings.
Accepting new clients for virtual afternoon appointments! Searching for a therapist is difficult, especially while trying to navigate the challenges that brought you here, so I commend you for taking this huge step towards working on your mental health. Living in a state of fight/flight, fear, anxiety, stress, uncertainty, and instability can wreak havoc on the mind and body. Therapy with me means you'll have the chance to gain deeper understandings, insights, and perspectives into what is going on, how to work with various stuck parts of yourself, how to recognize your own power and choices, and how to process difficult feelings.
(206) 210-3957 View (206) 210-3957
Photo of Tom Eggert - Tom Eggert Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Tom Eggert Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
As I am transitioning my practice to work primarily with men and couples, please check back to my website in the near future for updates on that practice change. www.tomeggertcounseling.com
As I am transitioning my practice to work primarily with men and couples, please check back to my website in the near future for updates on that practice change. www.tomeggertcounseling.com
(206) 769-6377 View (206) 769-6377
Photo of Cher Anderton, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cher Anderton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
There is power in our voices, and we deserve spaces where we can learn to feel safe expressing our pain, our hopes and our truth. I consider it my life's work to help create sacred spaces for those seeking ways to let go of the weight of their trauma and/or simply learn how to live life well and more authentically. Trust fostered in therapeutic relationships can open doors for increased self-awareness and self-love, inviting you to create healthier beliefs about yourself, your relationships, your life, your choices and your potential.
There is power in our voices, and we deserve spaces where we can learn to feel safe expressing our pain, our hopes and our truth. I consider it my life's work to help create sacred spaces for those seeking ways to let go of the weight of their trauma and/or simply learn how to live life well and more authentically. Trust fostered in therapeutic relationships can open doors for increased self-awareness and self-love, inviting you to create healthier beliefs about yourself, your relationships, your life, your choices and your potential.
(401) 404-5932 View (401) 404-5932
Photo of Mallory Lowell, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mallory Lowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe space for healing and empowerment. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist who combines theraputic techniques, including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and IFS, with knowledge gained from ten years of non-profit work supporting survivors of violence on their journeys. My approach is rooted in a strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed philosophy, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.
Welcome to a safe space for healing and empowerment. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist who combines theraputic techniques, including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and IFS, with knowledge gained from ten years of non-profit work supporting survivors of violence on their journeys. My approach is rooted in a strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed philosophy, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.
(206) 649-5666 View (206) 649-5666
Photo of Jennifer Skorch, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Skorch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
You work hard to make sure everyone around you is taken care of. You have set aside your own goals, hopes, and dreams to prioritize others. At this point, you may not know what you want and need anymore. You may even feel resentful toward people you’re caring for because you have no time or energy left for you. As an individual and couples therapist, I have supported many people through this journey of rediscovering joy and meaning in their lives and relationships.
You work hard to make sure everyone around you is taken care of. You have set aside your own goals, hopes, and dreams to prioritize others. At this point, you may not know what you want and need anymore. You may even feel resentful toward people you’re caring for because you have no time or energy left for you. As an individual and couples therapist, I have supported many people through this journey of rediscovering joy and meaning in their lives and relationships.
(206) 202-0724 View (206) 202-0724
Photo of Devin McCabe, LMHC, MHP, CMHS, Counselor
Devin McCabe
Counselor, LMHC, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who might be struggling to make sense of the complicated world that we live in. Despite our connectivity, it seems that we live in a time in which individuals and families are more isolated than ever before. I truly believe that we all need and desire a village — a network of support and care to help us when needed. It is my aim to be that extra form of support. I am here to help individuals and families navigate the more difficult hurdles and to find ways to work towards creating more peaceful, authentic, and connected lives.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who might be struggling to make sense of the complicated world that we live in. Despite our connectivity, it seems that we live in a time in which individuals and families are more isolated than ever before. I truly believe that we all need and desire a village — a network of support and care to help us when needed. It is my aim to be that extra form of support. I am here to help individuals and families navigate the more difficult hurdles and to find ways to work towards creating more peaceful, authentic, and connected lives.
(206) 489-0728 View (206) 489-0728
Photo of Amelia M J Carroll, MS, LMHC, CT, Counselor
Amelia M J Carroll
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Working with people who are going through a life transition is where I thrive in my work. If you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed by the transitions that come with the human issues of life, I may be the right therapist for you. With life comes change, and with change we step into the unknown, which can bring up feelings of anxiety, depression, overwhelm, or just not knowing what step to take next or how to take it. I walk alongside you as you navigate these next steps in your life. You don’t have to do this alone! I provide a safe and supportive environment for your healing and growth to reduce symptoms and build confidence
Working with people who are going through a life transition is where I thrive in my work. If you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed by the transitions that come with the human issues of life, I may be the right therapist for you. With life comes change, and with change we step into the unknown, which can bring up feelings of anxiety, depression, overwhelm, or just not knowing what step to take next or how to take it. I walk alongside you as you navigate these next steps in your life. You don’t have to do this alone! I provide a safe and supportive environment for your healing and growth to reduce symptoms and build confidence
(253) 843-7138 View (253) 843-7138
Photo of Iris M Hogan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris M Hogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like you're in a never-ending game of "Whack-a-Mole," trying to balance work, kids, relationships, and self-care? As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I understand the unique challenges that women, especially moms of young kids, face when it comes to managing stress and anxiety. That's why I use evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and compassion-oriented to help you find the balance you need.
Do you feel like you're in a never-ending game of "Whack-a-Mole," trying to balance work, kids, relationships, and self-care? As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I understand the unique challenges that women, especially moms of young kids, face when it comes to managing stress and anxiety. That's why I use evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and compassion-oriented to help you find the balance you need.
(206) 279-9193 View (206) 279-9193
Photo of Jessica Wendling, ND
Jessica Wendling
ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
Stuck in a pattern that's no longer serving you? I offer neurofeedback treatments that can break you out of maladaptive cycles (anxiety, pain, depression, etc) in as little as one session. Whether you've been stuck for a couple of weeks or a few decades, you can expect to feel more energy, motivation, and focus, a stabilized mood, reduction in pain, better sleep, and/or fewer social barriers. These treatments are safe and effective for any age group and can also optimize athletic, school, or work performance.
Stuck in a pattern that's no longer serving you? I offer neurofeedback treatments that can break you out of maladaptive cycles (anxiety, pain, depression, etc) in as little as one session. Whether you've been stuck for a couple of weeks or a few decades, you can expect to feel more energy, motivation, and focus, a stabilized mood, reduction in pain, better sleep, and/or fewer social barriers. These treatments are safe and effective for any age group and can also optimize athletic, school, or work performance.
(206) 279-1091 View (206) 279-1091
Photo of Dr. Brittany King, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Brittany King
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
I specialize in working with people with trauma, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The cornerstones of my approach are based upon genuineness and warmth. I am an EMDR therapist, and I completed my EMDRIA-approved EMDR training and became specialized in EMDR in 2019. For OCD, I use ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and I-CBT as treatment models.
I specialize in working with people with trauma, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The cornerstones of my approach are based upon genuineness and warmth. I am an EMDR therapist, and I completed my EMDRIA-approved EMDR training and became specialized in EMDR in 2019. For OCD, I use ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and I-CBT as treatment models.
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Photo of Leonora P Cabrera, PhD, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Leonora P Cabrera
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us. -David Richo. Finding a place where you can safely express pain, sorrow, vulnerability, shame, confusion, anger, etc., will allow you to work through the emotions, and come out learning how to manage your life. I am a clinically trained therapist with a Ph.D. and MA in Clinical Psychology. I have experience in providing psychological and forensic mental health evaluations and individual psychotherapy.
Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us. -David Richo. Finding a place where you can safely express pain, sorrow, vulnerability, shame, confusion, anger, etc., will allow you to work through the emotions, and come out learning how to manage your life. I am a clinically trained therapist with a Ph.D. and MA in Clinical Psychology. I have experience in providing psychological and forensic mental health evaluations and individual psychotherapy.
(206) 745-3502 View (206) 745-3502
Photo of Dr. Britt Lindon, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma, Psychologist
Dr. Britt Lindon
Psychologist, PhD, Anxiety, Couples, Trauma
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
Modern relationships are HARD. It’s a struggle to find the right person OR to wonder if your current partner is possibly the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your path. Maybe you’ve even made choices or overlooked things you now regret. Or, maybe it’s a relationship with a boss or coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires or just avoiding things way more than you should. You’re past thinking that life’s fair. But, you never thought that things could go THIS wrong or get under your skin THIS much.
(206) 759-8955 View (206) 759-8955
Photo of Tracy Barrett Adams, CHT
Tracy Barrett Adams
CHT
Verified Verified
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Hypnosis creates a natural bridge between mind and body, and it's a proven method for relieving pain, improving sleep, releasing anxiety, and replacing self-sabotage with new choices. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention creating a heightened openness and awareness. This state allows the mind to gently access deep creative resources, and in clinical hypnosis, we can then apply these resources to your goals for change.
Hypnosis creates a natural bridge between mind and body, and it's a proven method for relieving pain, improving sleep, releasing anxiety, and replacing self-sabotage with new choices. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention creating a heightened openness and awareness. This state allows the mind to gently access deep creative resources, and in clinical hypnosis, we can then apply these resources to your goals for change.
(206) 800-7535 View (206) 800-7535
Photo of Julianna Astaire (Buckmiller), LICSW, CMHS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julianna Astaire (Buckmiller)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with clients from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on resilience development and a collaborative process. I take into consideration where the child or adolescent is truly at and what is going to best engage them—be it artistic expression, play therapy, narrative therapy, creative writing/journaling, or more structured interventions. I focus on the fulfilled development of the whole individual, taking into account a systems approach, intersectionality, and developmental psychology. My approach is deeply rooted in attachment theory; focusing on developing a healthy bond to better facilitate trust and overall growth.
I work with clients from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on resilience development and a collaborative process. I take into consideration where the child or adolescent is truly at and what is going to best engage them—be it artistic expression, play therapy, narrative therapy, creative writing/journaling, or more structured interventions. I focus on the fulfilled development of the whole individual, taking into account a systems approach, intersectionality, and developmental psychology. My approach is deeply rooted in attachment theory; focusing on developing a healthy bond to better facilitate trust and overall growth.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ballard, Seattle, WA

400+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Ballard, Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
86% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
69% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Premera
43% Aetna
43% First Choice Health | FCH

How Therapists in Ballard, Seattle, WA see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
14% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ballard, Seattle?

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.