Therapists in Vashon, WA

Photo of Marie Sohl, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Marie Sohl
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Specializing in serving Vashon Island helping adults heal anxiety, depression, stress which often originate from patterns learned in childhood or from trauma. Treatment goes back to heal the very beginning of these patterns through EMDR, IFS, and Hypnotherapy. Marie Sohl has been working with families and infants, toddler or preschooler ages 0-6 for over 20 years who are needing extra support through changes and transitions. The extensive history working with young children and their families are helpful in understanding healing for adults who have been affected by childhood events.
Specializing in serving Vashon Island helping adults heal anxiety, depression, stress which often originate from patterns learned in childhood or from trauma. Treatment goes back to heal the very beginning of these patterns through EMDR, IFS, and Hypnotherapy. Marie Sohl has been working with families and infants, toddler or preschooler ages 0-6 for over 20 years who are needing extra support through changes and transitions. The extensive history working with young children and their families are helpful in understanding healing for adults who have been affected by childhood events.
(206) 535-1859 View (206) 535-1859
Photo of Susa Holt, ND(ret), MA, LMHC, SEP, Counselor
Susa Holt
Counselor, ND(ret), MA, LMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
As humans, we are hardwired for connection, love and a felt sense of belonging. I can help you to create deeper connections in relationships that matter, with partners, friends, family, and most importantly, with yourself. Together we can create a space, for you to design what you want for your life. I offer compassionate guidance assisting individuals and couples, who have arrived at some sort of impasse in their lives. It takes courage to begin to examine one's life and relationships. Mary Oliver wrote in The Journey, "One day you finally knew what you had to do...and began."
As humans, we are hardwired for connection, love and a felt sense of belonging. I can help you to create deeper connections in relationships that matter, with partners, friends, family, and most importantly, with yourself. Together we can create a space, for you to design what you want for your life. I offer compassionate guidance assisting individuals and couples, who have arrived at some sort of impasse in their lives. It takes courage to begin to examine one's life and relationships. Mary Oliver wrote in The Journey, "One day you finally knew what you had to do...and began."
(206) 451-7925 View (206) 451-7925
Photo of Gretchen Burkholder - Gretchen Burkholder, MA, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Gretchen Burkholder
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
I believe everyone has the ability to transform and grow into their fullest potential. I bring compassion and intuitive wisdom to help you find the courage and healing to fully become your true authentic and thriving self. I create a compassionate and empathetic space in which you can feel safe to explore whatever brings you into therapy. I enjoy working with adults, with a special interest in individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and shame, or are adjusting to change.
I believe everyone has the ability to transform and grow into their fullest potential. I bring compassion and intuitive wisdom to help you find the courage and healing to fully become your true authentic and thriving self. I create a compassionate and empathetic space in which you can feel safe to explore whatever brings you into therapy. I enjoy working with adults, with a special interest in individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and shame, or are adjusting to change.
(206) 735-4867 View (206) 735-4867
Photo of Lanae Ayers - lanae ayers, MA, LMHC, EFT, Coach, Gottman, Counselor
lanae ayers
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EFT, Coach, Gottman
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
Nearly everyone finds themselves in need of help, support and professional guidance at some time in their lives. If this is such a moment for you, take the first step toward getting the help you need by visiting my website. The specific therapeutic approach depends upon issues to be resolved and the needs of each individual, couple or family. In every case, however, my focus is to acknowledge existing strengths, resources and past solutions. Together, we immediately begin to transform negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors to create change
Nearly everyone finds themselves in need of help, support and professional guidance at some time in their lives. If this is such a moment for you, take the first step toward getting the help you need by visiting my website. The specific therapeutic approach depends upon issues to be resolved and the needs of each individual, couple or family. In every case, however, my focus is to acknowledge existing strengths, resources and past solutions. Together, we immediately begin to transform negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors to create change
(253) 499-9078 View (253) 499-9078
Photo of Mark P Timken, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Mark P Timken
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
Welcome! This is a critical time for you, and finding the right therapist is fundamental as you learn to cultivate your wholeness and acquire self-healing skills. Maybe you have tried therapy before and been disappointed. Ultimately, my task as a soulcentric psychotherapist is to accompany you as you discover who you REALLY are and help uncover your deepest gifts for this world. I feel honored to be a part of this journey and am inspired by your courage to reach out for support. Contact me, and let's see if soulcentric therapy is right for you.
Welcome! This is a critical time for you, and finding the right therapist is fundamental as you learn to cultivate your wholeness and acquire self-healing skills. Maybe you have tried therapy before and been disappointed. Ultimately, my task as a soulcentric psychotherapist is to accompany you as you discover who you REALLY are and help uncover your deepest gifts for this world. I feel honored to be a part of this journey and am inspired by your courage to reach out for support. Contact me, and let's see if soulcentric therapy is right for you.
(206) 488-1597 View (206) 488-1597
Photo of Kari Hilwig, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Hilwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Have you or someone you love received a recent diagnosis of a serious or terminal illness such as cancer? Has coping with a chronic illness left you feeling isolated and struggling to make sense of yourself and the world around you? Has someone you loved died and you need extra support as you grieve? Do you experience disenfranchised grief, such as divorce, facing an empty nest as children enter adulthood, aging childless when having a child is something you wanted, or any other life transition that shakes our sense of meaning and identity?
Have you or someone you love received a recent diagnosis of a serious or terminal illness such as cancer? Has coping with a chronic illness left you feeling isolated and struggling to make sense of yourself and the world around you? Has someone you loved died and you need extra support as you grieve? Do you experience disenfranchised grief, such as divorce, facing an empty nest as children enter adulthood, aging childless when having a child is something you wanted, or any other life transition that shakes our sense of meaning and identity?
(206) 984-3430 View (206) 984-3430
Photo of Alison Winegardner, LMHCA, Counselor
Alison Winegardner
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself getting lost in your thoughts, overanalyzing situations, or feeling a consuming sense of doubt that makes you question if you can handle everything going on in your life? Perhaps this looming sense of uncertainty leaves you wondering if something bad will happen and leads to envisioning worst-case scenarios. Feelings of pressure and tension can make it increasingly difficult to cope with your daily responsibilities and self-care. You crave some relief and can’t seem to figure out where to start. I strive to create a personalized therapeutic journey that respects your pace and preferences.
Do you find yourself getting lost in your thoughts, overanalyzing situations, or feeling a consuming sense of doubt that makes you question if you can handle everything going on in your life? Perhaps this looming sense of uncertainty leaves you wondering if something bad will happen and leads to envisioning worst-case scenarios. Feelings of pressure and tension can make it increasingly difficult to cope with your daily responsibilities and self-care. You crave some relief and can’t seem to figure out where to start. I strive to create a personalized therapeutic journey that respects your pace and preferences.
(206) 569-5053 View (206) 569-5053
Photo of Rachel Lordkenaga, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Rachel Lordkenaga
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about the therapeutic relationship. This work entails identifying issues and concerns and processing them in a constructive way. I am interested in holding hope for you on this journey, even when you are feeling hopeless. I think it is important to understand the connection between the mind and the body as well as the past and the present as challenges are confronted. I find the use of creativity, both in art making and perspective changing, very healing. It is an honor to guide you in the process of creating the life you desire.
I am passionate about the therapeutic relationship. This work entails identifying issues and concerns and processing them in a constructive way. I am interested in holding hope for you on this journey, even when you are feeling hopeless. I think it is important to understand the connection between the mind and the body as well as the past and the present as challenges are confronted. I find the use of creativity, both in art making and perspective changing, very healing. It is an honor to guide you in the process of creating the life you desire.
(206) 203-4254 View (206) 203-4254
Photo of Kris Thompson, MA, she/her, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kris Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, she/her
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Waitlist for new clients
I am a systemic relational therapist. What does that mean? I believe everything is connected: people make up systems, and systems have patterns. I help my clients –individuals, couples, and families of all types— shift the patterns that no longer work for them. We identify the path they want to take forward, and together, we work toward that future.
I am a systemic relational therapist. What does that mean? I believe everything is connected: people make up systems, and systems have patterns. I help my clients –individuals, couples, and families of all types— shift the patterns that no longer work for them. We identify the path they want to take forward, and together, we work toward that future.
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Photo of Haley VandenHazel, LMHC, Counselor
Haley VandenHazel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
I offer year-round hiking therapy (walk and talk therapy) for older teens and adults on Vashon Island. I also have clients I see in office and via telehealth. During a hiking therapy session we often focus on personal goals, similar to what we might do in the office, and we get the added benefits of physical activity and time in nature.
I offer year-round hiking therapy (walk and talk therapy) for older teens and adults on Vashon Island. I also have clients I see in office and via telehealth. During a hiking therapy session we often focus on personal goals, similar to what we might do in the office, and we get the added benefits of physical activity and time in nature.
(360) 226-5197 View (360) 226-5197
Photo of Laurel Durrett, MFA, MSEd, LPC, LMHC, NARM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurel Durrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MSEd, LPC, LMHC, NARM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
When you listen to your mind and body about what you really want, you are aware that -above all else- you want freedom: freedom to be spontaneous, to fear less, to love yourself and others without hesitation, to be present to yourself rather than being caught in the past or the future...You struggle and you sense that others may not struggle as much as you do. You want closeness but you feel cut off from yourself; it doesn't feel possible to be close to others (not in the way you would like.) You want inner freedom and have no idea how to get from where you are now to that kind of experience. What would freedom even feel like?...
When you listen to your mind and body about what you really want, you are aware that -above all else- you want freedom: freedom to be spontaneous, to fear less, to love yourself and others without hesitation, to be present to yourself rather than being caught in the past or the future...You struggle and you sense that others may not struggle as much as you do. You want closeness but you feel cut off from yourself; it doesn't feel possible to be close to others (not in the way you would like.) You want inner freedom and have no idea how to get from where you are now to that kind of experience. What would freedom even feel like?...
(206) 210-1349 View (206) 210-1349
Photo of Susan M Ross - Susan Ross & Associates, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Ross & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Maybe you’ve ’just read “The Body Keeps the Score,” and are curious about trauma treatment. Possibly you feel overwhelmed. Addictions may have added to the mix. Shame, guilt, and suffering interfere with the life you imagine. I get it. My treatment approach is designed to help you release your restrictive heaviness and wounds in a timely manner. I offer neurofeedback and EMDR as well as talk therapy. When clients are offered these methods together, breakthroughs happen. We use cutting edge neuroscience with heart-centered therapy to help your brain and body align. Our treatment effectively works with all of you.
Maybe you’ve ’just read “The Body Keeps the Score,” and are curious about trauma treatment. Possibly you feel overwhelmed. Addictions may have added to the mix. Shame, guilt, and suffering interfere with the life you imagine. I get it. My treatment approach is designed to help you release your restrictive heaviness and wounds in a timely manner. I offer neurofeedback and EMDR as well as talk therapy. When clients are offered these methods together, breakthroughs happen. We use cutting edge neuroscience with heart-centered therapy to help your brain and body align. Our treatment effectively works with all of you.
(206) 489-3508 View (206) 489-3508
Photo of Kim Newall, MA, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Kim Newall
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8
(206) 429-6243 View (206) 429-6243
Photo of Jeffrey Tipp, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeffrey Tipp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
My therapy practice is client centered, so I place full attention on precisely what you hope for , what you dream of, and what gets in the way. I tailor our work to achieve meaningful change that will endure, regardless of outer circumstances.I combine Zen awareness training and cutting edge modalities that are innovative yet accessible and invite the inner courage of my clients.I recognize and honor the native wisdom of clients regarding their own lives. Clients report they experience the beginnings of change almost immediately. Over half of my clients work with me via Skype video conferencing.
My therapy practice is client centered, so I place full attention on precisely what you hope for , what you dream of, and what gets in the way. I tailor our work to achieve meaningful change that will endure, regardless of outer circumstances.I combine Zen awareness training and cutting edge modalities that are innovative yet accessible and invite the inner courage of my clients.I recognize and honor the native wisdom of clients regarding their own lives. Clients report they experience the beginnings of change almost immediately. Over half of my clients work with me via Skype video conferencing.
(206) 651-4972 View (206) 651-4972
Photo of Stephanie M Mustopich, MA, MHP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie M Mustopich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MHP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
Welcome! You've already taken the first step of searching for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I want to acknowledge how difficult that can be and am here to help support you through the rest of the journey. I see adolescents, adults and couples for a variety of issues such as family or relational conflict, anxiety, depression, self-compassion, codependency, and boundaries. I find it deeply rewarding to provide therapy to those who identify anywhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Building a trusting relationship is my first priority. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space together where you can meet your goals.
Welcome! You've already taken the first step of searching for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I want to acknowledge how difficult that can be and am here to help support you through the rest of the journey. I see adolescents, adults and couples for a variety of issues such as family or relational conflict, anxiety, depression, self-compassion, codependency, and boundaries. I find it deeply rewarding to provide therapy to those who identify anywhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Building a trusting relationship is my first priority. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space together where you can meet your goals.
(541) 372-6052 View (541) 372-6052
Photo of Michael Susanne Butler, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Michael Susanne Butler
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
You might be feeling stuck in your life, or perhaps struggling to be happy, to be connected with others, to be free of anxiety. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression and life transitions, in addition to identifying ways of being that keep you from moving forward in life. Your commitment to the difficult and sometimes painful work of looking honestly at your issues is made easier in the safe accepting environment I provide. We might even find ourselves celebrating your increased freedom to be yourself with joy and ease!
You might be feeling stuck in your life, or perhaps struggling to be happy, to be connected with others, to be free of anxiety. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression and life transitions, in addition to identifying ways of being that keep you from moving forward in life. Your commitment to the difficult and sometimes painful work of looking honestly at your issues is made easier in the safe accepting environment I provide. We might even find ourselves celebrating your increased freedom to be yourself with joy and ease!
(206) 496-0849 View (206) 496-0849
Photo of Holly Taylor, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Holly Taylor
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Integration of traumatic memories will elicit profound change, and enable us to feel and act from the love that is inherent in all people. I believe we are best able to become more aware of ourselves through studying our relationships. I will work with you to discover how you relate to others; we will study how your brain functions to bring past experiences into the present moment, distorting your sense of self and creating conflict. Clearing trauma can enable you to differentiate between then and now, so you are more free to make conscious choices about how you relate today.
Integration of traumatic memories will elicit profound change, and enable us to feel and act from the love that is inherent in all people. I believe we are best able to become more aware of ourselves through studying our relationships. I will work with you to discover how you relate to others; we will study how your brain functions to bring past experiences into the present moment, distorting your sense of self and creating conflict. Clearing trauma can enable you to differentiate between then and now, so you are more free to make conscious choices about how you relate today.
(206) 504-2246 View (206) 504-2246
Photo of Loren Cline, LMHC, Counselor
Loren Cline
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist based in the greater Seattle area. I’ve been in practice for over 25 years providing individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults ages 16 and up. My particular focus is on women ready to address unwanted patterns in their lives including but not limited to relationships with their bodies, partners, friendships, alcohol, marijuana, food, family, career and their inner navigation and intuition. With adolescents the focus often is on social anxiety, time management, and substance abuse including eating disorders, social media use and impact, and nervous system regulation skills.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist based in the greater Seattle area. I’ve been in practice for over 25 years providing individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults ages 16 and up. My particular focus is on women ready to address unwanted patterns in their lives including but not limited to relationships with their bodies, partners, friendships, alcohol, marijuana, food, family, career and their inner navigation and intuition. With adolescents the focus often is on social anxiety, time management, and substance abuse including eating disorders, social media use and impact, and nervous system regulation skills.
(206) 785-3934 View (206) 785-3934
Photo of Seven Dunsmore, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Seven Dunsmore
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
Consciousness is evolving. This is a wonderful time to be alive, but if there is something preventing you from achieving your potential -- I can help. I have over 20 years' experience working in community mental health and in private practice, and my specialties include working through the painful memories of trauma, childhood sexual abuse, family conflict/abuse, and other deprivations which create low self-esteem and cause depression and anxiety. I am also interested in how capitalist culture undermines our ability to express ourselves creatively, and how the pressure of modern life can thwart vitality and hope.
Consciousness is evolving. This is a wonderful time to be alive, but if there is something preventing you from achieving your potential -- I can help. I have over 20 years' experience working in community mental health and in private practice, and my specialties include working through the painful memories of trauma, childhood sexual abuse, family conflict/abuse, and other deprivations which create low self-esteem and cause depression and anxiety. I am also interested in how capitalist culture undermines our ability to express ourselves creatively, and how the pressure of modern life can thwart vitality and hope.
(206) 237-7718 View (206) 237-7718
Photo of Susan James, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
You may be dealing with a lot of anxiety and/or depression and find it hard to function well in many areas of your life. You experienced a traumatic event, or several traumas and the after-effects continue to trouble you. Maybe you've tried a lot of ways to feel better but still feel stuck.
You may be dealing with a lot of anxiety and/or depression and find it hard to function well in many areas of your life. You experienced a traumatic event, or several traumas and the after-effects continue to trouble you. Maybe you've tried a lot of ways to feel better but still feel stuck.
(253) 398-8097 View (253) 398-8097
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Vashon, WA

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Vashon, WA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
92% Depression
84% Trauma and PTSD
84% Self Esteem
79% Relationship Issues
71% Grief
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera Blue Cross
67% First Choice Health | FCH
61% Regence

How Therapists in Vashon, WA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
16% Male
5% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Vashon?

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.