Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Lisette Heidtke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lisette Heidtke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I specialize in providing psychotherapy to those in career/college development, life transitions, or experiencing symptoms, utilizing a holistic and relational approach. I believe every individual has the ability to define and cultivate a path towards their ideal life. My primary focus is to help clients overcome barriers to growth by understanding the origin of their symptoms and concerns through psychoanalysis. Through this self-awareness and applied psychoeducational techniques, clients are able to move forward in their lives building upon their inherent strengths and skills with confidence.
Hello! I specialize in providing psychotherapy to those in career/college development, life transitions, or experiencing symptoms, utilizing a holistic and relational approach. I believe every individual has the ability to define and cultivate a path towards their ideal life. My primary focus is to help clients overcome barriers to growth by understanding the origin of their symptoms and concerns through psychoanalysis. Through this self-awareness and applied psychoeducational techniques, clients are able to move forward in their lives building upon their inherent strengths and skills with confidence.
(971) 299-2791 View (971) 299-2791
Photo of Angelica Nenchev, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Angelica Nenchev
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-A, CADCI
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I am a POC therapist using somatic & talk therapy to help you work through barriers to connecting to your authentic self. I provide adults who struggle with problematic substance use, disordered eating, trauma and other mental health concerns with the education and integrative clinical care to support their goals in creating and sustaining change. Our work will be a collaborative partnership centered around your own values,
I am a POC therapist using somatic & talk therapy to help you work through barriers to connecting to your authentic self. I provide adults who struggle with problematic substance use, disordered eating, trauma and other mental health concerns with the education and integrative clinical care to support their goals in creating and sustaining change. Our work will be a collaborative partnership centered around your own values,
(503) 739-9056 View (503) 739-9056
Photo of Han Bertrand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Han Bertrand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy prioritizes understanding my clients' needs and creating a welcoming and safe space for their emotions. I work with adults seeking therapy to overcome persistent anxieties and deep-rooted feelings of insecurity and inadequacy. Together, we can help you develop self-esteem to undo the impact of trauma, leading to more satisfying relationships and a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs. I specialize in psychodynamic therapy, also known as psychoanalysis. This is a depth-oriented therapy that aims to resolve deep-seated issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My approach to therapy prioritizes understanding my clients' needs and creating a welcoming and safe space for their emotions. I work with adults seeking therapy to overcome persistent anxieties and deep-rooted feelings of insecurity and inadequacy. Together, we can help you develop self-esteem to undo the impact of trauma, leading to more satisfying relationships and a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs. I specialize in psychodynamic therapy, also known as psychoanalysis. This is a depth-oriented therapy that aims to resolve deep-seated issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Photo of Theresa Halter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Theresa Halter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that everyone has the ability to live a balanced and fulfilling life. Change is inevitable and natural. During challenging times, we seek the path back to our inner wisdom. As a school counselor and teacher for twenty five years, I learned a great deal about how unique our learning and personality styles are. I enjoy helping adults embrace who they are to gain clarity, improve relationships, cope with stress, and regain a sense of well-being.
I believe that everyone has the ability to live a balanced and fulfilling life. Change is inevitable and natural. During challenging times, we seek the path back to our inner wisdom. As a school counselor and teacher for twenty five years, I learned a great deal about how unique our learning and personality styles are. I enjoy helping adults embrace who they are to gain clarity, improve relationships, cope with stress, and regain a sense of well-being.
(458) 236-5887 View (458) 236-5887
Photo of Heidi Brockman-Astrue, Counselor in Portland, OR
Heidi Brockman-Astrue
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
There is hope! Things can be better... I like to begin with an idea of how things might be improve in a client's life, if the identified problems were addressed. Together, we will find paths to healing. My pragmatic, nurturing approach seems to help clients who are struggling with feelings of being overwhelmed or just plain stuck. I believe that my clients deserve to be heard and participate actively in their therapeutic process to facilitate great change.
There is hope! Things can be better... I like to begin with an idea of how things might be improve in a client's life, if the identified problems were addressed. Together, we will find paths to healing. My pragmatic, nurturing approach seems to help clients who are struggling with feelings of being overwhelmed or just plain stuck. I believe that my clients deserve to be heard and participate actively in their therapeutic process to facilitate great change.
(971) 251-4689 View (971) 251-4689
Photo of Beverly Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Beverly Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266
Not accepting new clients
I want you to know that I see you. You’re struggling, feeling lost or down, or finding yourself dealing with trauma, which makes you anxious, jumpy, and often triggered in your everyday life. Maybe you are feeling stressed and take care of others while putting yourself on the back burner, or have lost touch with the wise nurturing part of yourself. But things can get better.
I want you to know that I see you. You’re struggling, feeling lost or down, or finding yourself dealing with trauma, which makes you anxious, jumpy, and often triggered in your everyday life. Maybe you are feeling stressed and take care of others while putting yourself on the back burner, or have lost touch with the wise nurturing part of yourself. But things can get better.
(503) 486-3477 View (503) 486-3477
Photo of Miranda York, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Miranda York
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who reside in California or Oregon. I offer clinical supervision to associates residing and working in the state of California. As a psychotherapist, I am flexible and tailor my approach to the need of each client. I have been trained in many modalities that offer various benefits, depending on your needs and preferences (EMDR, AEDP, Sensorimotor, Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic, Somatic). As a clinical supervisor, I supervise from a primarily psychodynamic orientation. My practice is anti oppression and trauma informed.
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who reside in California or Oregon. I offer clinical supervision to associates residing and working in the state of California. As a psychotherapist, I am flexible and tailor my approach to the need of each client. I have been trained in many modalities that offer various benefits, depending on your needs and preferences (EMDR, AEDP, Sensorimotor, Psychodynamic/Psychoanalytic, Somatic). As a clinical supervisor, I supervise from a primarily psychodynamic orientation. My practice is anti oppression and trauma informed.
(971) 314-6752 View (971) 314-6752
Photo of Satya Gaia Grace, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Satya Gaia Grace
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CHT, RM, TRY
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Our work together involves tending to the root of imbalance, alchemizing pain into medicine, and re-orienting artistic creation and mothers as the center of life. As a relational, intuitive, and earth-centered practitioner, I believe reality can be imagined, gestated, and birthed anew. We can meet in my office in Portland, our local forests, or virtually. May we remember healing is belonging within the village of our hearts, our communities, and our planet.
Our work together involves tending to the root of imbalance, alchemizing pain into medicine, and re-orienting artistic creation and mothers as the center of life. As a relational, intuitive, and earth-centered practitioner, I believe reality can be imagined, gestated, and birthed anew. We can meet in my office in Portland, our local forests, or virtually. May we remember healing is belonging within the village of our hearts, our communities, and our planet.
(503) 738-1633 View (503) 738-1633
Photo of Samuel Stem, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Samuel Stem
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
Not accepting new clients
I am a Kink-knowledgeable, LGBTQ-friendly, insight-oriented practitioner. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions and emotional regulation concerns. I offer an initial free consultation to help you decide if I may be a good fit, as well as a generous sliding scale. Located in NE Portland, close to public transit, with weekend and evening hours available.
I am a Kink-knowledgeable, LGBTQ-friendly, insight-oriented practitioner. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions and emotional regulation concerns. I offer an initial free consultation to help you decide if I may be a good fit, as well as a generous sliding scale. Located in NE Portland, close to public transit, with weekend and evening hours available.
(503) 444-8917 View (503) 444-8917
Photo of Josiah Barnett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Josiah Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I am adept at meeting people where they are at and being mentally flexible with whatever they bring to the table. I have some innate skills regarding empathy, guidance and being a good listener. My education and experience (both life experience and professional experience) has helped fine tune those skills for therapy. I enjoy helping people feel comfortable, accepted and capable just as they are. I offer personable and practical support to the people I work with. I strive to be as useful and intelligent as I am kind, patient and caring.
I am adept at meeting people where they are at and being mentally flexible with whatever they bring to the table. I have some innate skills regarding empathy, guidance and being a good listener. My education and experience (both life experience and professional experience) has helped fine tune those skills for therapy. I enjoy helping people feel comfortable, accepted and capable just as they are. I offer personable and practical support to the people I work with. I strive to be as useful and intelligent as I am kind, patient and caring.
(406) 313-8997 View (406) 313-8997
Photo of Emma Slater, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Emma Slater
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
There are many different approaches to therapy. What works for one person might not work for another. By developing a strong therapeutic relationship we will find what works best. I approach sessions in a warm, interactive, collaborative and individualized way. It is my goal to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment to explore and process the things that are impacting you in your daily life. We all have a history and are doing the best we can with what we know, if we address barriers and unhelpful behaviors we can continue to improve and live a more satisfying life.
There are many different approaches to therapy. What works for one person might not work for another. By developing a strong therapeutic relationship we will find what works best. I approach sessions in a warm, interactive, collaborative and individualized way. It is my goal to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment to explore and process the things that are impacting you in your daily life. We all have a history and are doing the best we can with what we know, if we address barriers and unhelpful behaviors we can continue to improve and live a more satisfying life.
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Photo of Tikhon Markov, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Tikhon Markov
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe everyone can find healing in an atmosphere of non-judgment, validation, and empathy. Acceptance and honesty can perform miracles. My theoretical orientation is rooted in the Humanistic-Existential approach. It means that I believe that every individual has the best expert of themselves and is in power to shape their present, future, and even the past. We all hold the key to our happiness. However, the traumas we hold, injustice, oppression, and cultural stereotypes make us feel overwise. It makes us feel powerless over our own lives. My role as a therapist is to help my clients to remember that they are in charge.
I believe everyone can find healing in an atmosphere of non-judgment, validation, and empathy. Acceptance and honesty can perform miracles. My theoretical orientation is rooted in the Humanistic-Existential approach. It means that I believe that every individual has the best expert of themselves and is in power to shape their present, future, and even the past. We all hold the key to our happiness. However, the traumas we hold, injustice, oppression, and cultural stereotypes make us feel overwise. It makes us feel powerless over our own lives. My role as a therapist is to help my clients to remember that they are in charge.
(971) 260-9400 View (971) 260-9400
Photo of Marc Parker, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Marc Parker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
I provide psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessment for older adults. These evaluations can be useful in providing diagnostic clarity, and in exploring changes in memory and cognitive functioning. All assessments include a feedback session, during which I go over my findings and make recommendations for improving quality of life. I also write a detailed report, which I can send to other medical providers with a signed release.
I provide psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessment for older adults. These evaluations can be useful in providing diagnostic clarity, and in exploring changes in memory and cognitive functioning. All assessments include a feedback session, during which I go over my findings and make recommendations for improving quality of life. I also write a detailed report, which I can send to other medical providers with a signed release.
(503) 227-3090 View (503) 227-3090
Photo of Colleen Odell MS LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Colleen Odell MS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
PLEASE NOTE: I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS. I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in treating individuals with relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; and grief. I can provide you with a safe space and a trusting relationship with a caring mental health professional to resolve emotional pain, depression, worry or sadness. Our first step is to identify the core issues affecting your life; then we'll focus on making key changes to improve your life and relationships. You will find me to be caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and effective.
PLEASE NOTE: I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS. I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in treating individuals with relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; and grief. I can provide you with a safe space and a trusting relationship with a caring mental health professional to resolve emotional pain, depression, worry or sadness. Our first step is to identify the core issues affecting your life; then we'll focus on making key changes to improve your life and relationships. You will find me to be caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and effective.
(503) 545-6312 View (503) 545-6312
Photo of Tabi Evans, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Tabi Evans
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227  (Online Only)
Regular books closed - accepting clients for gender-affirming letters of support. The past few years have led to major increases in stress, social isolation and depression or anxiety, and collective trauma (often leaving an unequal burden on Black, Indigenous, and other people of color). This can make it difficult to find joy, experience pleasure, and be active participants in our own lives. I provide evidenced-based supportive therapy for trans and gender-nonconforming young people (6-18 years old) and young adults (18-30s) who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or difficulty adjusting to significant life events.
Regular books closed - accepting clients for gender-affirming letters of support. The past few years have led to major increases in stress, social isolation and depression or anxiety, and collective trauma (often leaving an unequal burden on Black, Indigenous, and other people of color). This can make it difficult to find joy, experience pleasure, and be active participants in our own lives. I provide evidenced-based supportive therapy for trans and gender-nonconforming young people (6-18 years old) and young adults (18-30s) who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or difficulty adjusting to significant life events.
(971) 252-7360 View (971) 252-7360
Photo of Karim Dabliz, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Karim Dabliz
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Professional Counseling Associate located in Portland, Oregon. I help individuals heal their trauma, increase awareness and work toward cultivating meaningful connections in their most important relationships. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I believe in understanding the parts of yourself that make you who you are, rather than removing them. I specialize in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds. I am also experienced in helping self esteem, navigating body image, and working on the importance of boundaries.
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Professional Counseling Associate located in Portland, Oregon. I help individuals heal their trauma, increase awareness and work toward cultivating meaningful connections in their most important relationships. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I believe in understanding the parts of yourself that make you who you are, rather than removing them. I specialize in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds. I am also experienced in helping self esteem, navigating body image, and working on the importance of boundaries.
(971) 571-5721 View (971) 571-5721
Photo of Mind Map Psychoeducational Services, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Mind Map Psychoeducational Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
We are a psychological assessment clinic that specializes in conducting assessments for children, teens, and young adults including those for learning disabilities (such as Dyslexia), Autism, ADHD, giftedness, anxiety, and depression. Our approach is compassionate, collaborative, and thorough. One of the goals of the assessment is to provide an in-depth understanding of the young person’s strengths and to uncover the causes of their challenges. Another goal is to provide families, teachers, and other individuals who work with the student with evidence-based recommendations so that they can succeed and thrive in their life.
We are a psychological assessment clinic that specializes in conducting assessments for children, teens, and young adults including those for learning disabilities (such as Dyslexia), Autism, ADHD, giftedness, anxiety, and depression. Our approach is compassionate, collaborative, and thorough. One of the goals of the assessment is to provide an in-depth understanding of the young person’s strengths and to uncover the causes of their challenges. Another goal is to provide families, teachers, and other individuals who work with the student with evidence-based recommendations so that they can succeed and thrive in their life.
(503) 461-1239 View (503) 461-1239
Photo of Cynthia J Song, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Cynthia J Song
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist in MA & OR. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked as a public interest attorney, and as a psychologist, I see the importance of being conscious of context in the therapy room. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy -an evidence-based treatment- to illuminate how the past and present, external and internal, mutually influence one another. I also integrate tools from other therapy modalities to support the unique needs of each individual.
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist in MA & OR. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked as a public interest attorney, and as a psychologist, I see the importance of being conscious of context in the therapy room. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy -an evidence-based treatment- to illuminate how the past and present, external and internal, mutually influence one another. I also integrate tools from other therapy modalities to support the unique needs of each individual.
(503) 487-5909 View (503) 487-5909
Photo of Nicole McDonald in Portland, OR
Nicole McDonald
MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
>Now accepting new clients!< You matter. And simply because you exist, you belong. This can be difficult to believe though if you have felt marginalized due to your neurodiversity, sexuality, or gender. I’m interested in exploring the marginalization you feel and helping you to find a sense of belonging in the world and in yourself. I want you to feel seen, heard, and understood. We might explore creatively through dreams, meditation, archetypes, enneagram type, or through somatic awareness.
>Now accepting new clients!< You matter. And simply because you exist, you belong. This can be difficult to believe though if you have felt marginalized due to your neurodiversity, sexuality, or gender. I’m interested in exploring the marginalization you feel and helping you to find a sense of belonging in the world and in yourself. I want you to feel seen, heard, and understood. We might explore creatively through dreams, meditation, archetypes, enneagram type, or through somatic awareness.
(971) 257-1606 View (971) 257-1606
Photo of Blake Locher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Blake Locher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
As we navigate transitions and answer our inner call for change, we often need additional support. I am an interpersonal-focused therapist that works with you to create an empowering space in which you are free to be yourself, discover blind spots that may be getting in your way, and reclaim ownership of your life and what you want to do with it. My particular areas of work include shame, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life transitions, and adjusting to the effects of disabilities, as well as facilitating self-exploration and authentic identity development.
As we navigate transitions and answer our inner call for change, we often need additional support. I am an interpersonal-focused therapist that works with you to create an empowering space in which you are free to be yourself, discover blind spots that may be getting in your way, and reclaim ownership of your life and what you want to do with it. My particular areas of work include shame, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life transitions, and adjusting to the effects of disabilities, as well as facilitating self-exploration and authentic identity development.
(971) 279-7484 View (971) 279-7484

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

55% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.