Therapists in Vernon Hills, IL

Photo of Dr. John Jochem / Hawthorn Counseling Group, Psychologist in Vernon Hills, IL
Dr. John Jochem / Hawthorn Counseling Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I have practiced as a clinical psychologist for over 30 years and have had the privilege of serving as psychotherapist, diagnostician and mediator with many individuals, families and couples. One of the first things I always want to know is: what is happening that you are seeking help now? It is can be a difficult decision to reach out for professional guidance and I'll want to understand why you are seeking professional help at this point in time and the goals which are most meaningful to you. Together we will chart a course to help you move towards resolution of difficulties and acquisition of skills to sustain your growth.
I have practiced as a clinical psychologist for over 30 years and have had the privilege of serving as psychotherapist, diagnostician and mediator with many individuals, families and couples. One of the first things I always want to know is: what is happening that you are seeking help now? It is can be a difficult decision to reach out for professional guidance and I'll want to understand why you are seeking professional help at this point in time and the goals which are most meaningful to you. Together we will chart a course to help you move towards resolution of difficulties and acquisition of skills to sustain your growth.
(847) 916-8704 View (847) 916-8704
Photo of Kelly Poapst (Addiction Treatment), Licensed Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Kelly Poapst (Addiction Treatment)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(847) 654-9904 View (847) 654-9904
Photo of Stephanie Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
Stephanie Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Stephanie Ross is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University. She moved from New Mexico to Illinois in 2021 and is anxious to put down roots here. Stephanie believes the therapeutic relationship is an equal one, grounded in working together to find solution-focused, positive skills to cope with life challenges. She sees her job as assisting clients to meet their goals and become their authentic selves.
Stephanie Ross is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2010. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University. She moved from New Mexico to Illinois in 2021 and is anxious to put down roots here. Stephanie believes the therapeutic relationship is an equal one, grounded in working together to find solution-focused, positive skills to cope with life challenges. She sees her job as assisting clients to meet their goals and become their authentic selves.
(224) 219-0523 View (224) 219-0523
Photo of Matthew Marder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
Matthew Marder, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I am ready, willing, and able to provide a safe space to anyone in need of emotional support. You may have gone through a loss, or simply are experiencing difficulty in whatever life has thrown at you recently. No matter your situation, I am available to listen, and help you succeed and improve you, your relationship, or your family life.
I am ready, willing, and able to provide a safe space to anyone in need of emotional support. You may have gone through a loss, or simply are experiencing difficulty in whatever life has thrown at you recently. No matter your situation, I am available to listen, and help you succeed and improve you, your relationship, or your family life.
(847) 512-3923 View (847) 512-3923
Photo of Rick Egbert, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Rick Egbert
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
You deserve a life of hope and healing! If you're here, it's probably because you or someone you care about is being weighed down by life. Conflict in relationships, transitions in life, trauma, and everyday stress can chip away at our joy and vitality. Trust me - it doesn't have to be this way. Yes, counseling is hard work. Making that first, courageous step of getting started can be intimidating. I'll do everything I can to make you feel heard, seen, and accepted. I want you to have a safe, comfortable, and healing environment as we journey together.
You deserve a life of hope and healing! If you're here, it's probably because you or someone you care about is being weighed down by life. Conflict in relationships, transitions in life, trauma, and everyday stress can chip away at our joy and vitality. Trust me - it doesn't have to be this way. Yes, counseling is hard work. Making that first, courageous step of getting started can be intimidating. I'll do everything I can to make you feel heard, seen, and accepted. I want you to have a safe, comfortable, and healing environment as we journey together.
(847) 241-1129 View (847) 241-1129
Photo of China Oughton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
China Oughton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Not accepting new clients
China Oughton is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She completed her Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at The Family Institute at Northwestern University. She acquired a diverse range of clinical experience through training at The Family Institute's Bette D. Harris Family and Child Clinic and the Parents In Charge (PIC) Clinic located in Chicago, IL. She has experience in crisis and family intervention within therapeutic day school settings and is a trauma-informed and EMDR trained therapist. She has completed trainings and is experienced with reunification and court-ordered family therapy.
China Oughton is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She completed her Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at The Family Institute at Northwestern University. She acquired a diverse range of clinical experience through training at The Family Institute's Bette D. Harris Family and Child Clinic and the Parents In Charge (PIC) Clinic located in Chicago, IL. She has experience in crisis and family intervention within therapeutic day school settings and is a trauma-informed and EMDR trained therapist. She has completed trainings and is experienced with reunification and court-ordered family therapy.
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Photo of Laura Gebhardt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
Laura Gebhardt, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I will listen to your unique story and partner with you to use your strengths and insight to design the future that you desire and deserve. My role is to be a compassionate, non-judgmental, trusted, and supportive, mentor, advocate, and therapist. I will listen to understand and preserve confidentiality, and partner with you to decide your goals for the future. I can empower you to realize your potential.
I will listen to your unique story and partner with you to use your strengths and insight to design the future that you desire and deserve. My role is to be a compassionate, non-judgmental, trusted, and supportive, mentor, advocate, and therapist. I will listen to understand and preserve confidentiality, and partner with you to decide your goals for the future. I can empower you to realize your potential.
(224) 637-1603 View (224) 637-1603
Photo of Eileen Marie Rancharan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Eileen Marie Rancharan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Positive change in life is something we all long for. To grow in our relationships, to heal trauma from our past, and to arrive at the resilient individual we know that we can be. Change however, is hard and involves many steps. Sometimes we are plagued by our fears, and other times we are too overwhelmed to even know where to start. If you long for change, therapy is a step in the right direction.
Positive change in life is something we all long for. To grow in our relationships, to heal trauma from our past, and to arrive at the resilient individual we know that we can be. Change however, is hard and involves many steps. Sometimes we are plagued by our fears, and other times we are too overwhelmed to even know where to start. If you long for change, therapy is a step in the right direction.
(847) 443-5974 View (847) 443-5974
Photo of Sherry Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
Sherry Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I am a supportive and empathic therapist who cares deeply about individuals feeling better. Life can be extremely challenging and stressful. My goal is to offer guidance to help you or a family member through these difficult times with loving, nurturing care and support. I am a seasoned clinical social worker with more than forty years of experience. I worked at Stevenson High School as the Social Work Coordinator for eighteen years and recently as the Director for Clinical Services at a therapeutic day school.
I am a supportive and empathic therapist who cares deeply about individuals feeling better. Life can be extremely challenging and stressful. My goal is to offer guidance to help you or a family member through these difficult times with loving, nurturing care and support. I am a seasoned clinical social worker with more than forty years of experience. I worked at Stevenson High School as the Social Work Coordinator for eighteen years and recently as the Director for Clinical Services at a therapeutic day school.
(847) 851-4771 View (847) 851-4771
Photo of Rolanda Parks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Rolanda Parks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and defeated by the various challenges in your life? Need to make some changes so you can take back control of your life? Are you dealing with stress, anxiousness, or sadness? You are not alone and looking to speak with a therapeutic professional is the first step in the right direction.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and defeated by the various challenges in your life? Need to make some changes so you can take back control of your life? Are you dealing with stress, anxiousness, or sadness? You are not alone and looking to speak with a therapeutic professional is the first step in the right direction.
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Photo of Beth M Croley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Beth M Croley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
Everyone has a story. Our lives have many twists and turns that can take away a person's sense of peace and joy. I'd love to hear your story and help you on a path of your best life. I've been a therapist for twenty six years. I treat depression, anxiety, issues of loss, caregivers of those with special needs, sexual abuse and trauma work. I truly love what I do and the courageous people I meet along the way. When I'm not in a therapeutic setting, I enjoy trying new experiences, being creative, and laughing at pet videos.
Everyone has a story. Our lives have many twists and turns that can take away a person's sense of peace and joy. I'd love to hear your story and help you on a path of your best life. I've been a therapist for twenty six years. I treat depression, anxiety, issues of loss, caregivers of those with special needs, sexual abuse and trauma work. I truly love what I do and the courageous people I meet along the way. When I'm not in a therapeutic setting, I enjoy trying new experiences, being creative, and laughing at pet videos.
(847) 474-9487 View (847) 474-9487
Photo of Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry in Vernon Hills, IL
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
Photo of Lucy Atsaves, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Lucy Atsaves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
My ideal client is a family seeking support in navigating the complexities of childhood and adolescent mental health. They may be grappling with issues like trauma, anxiety, or communication barriers. Their needs center around understanding and healing, fostering resilience, and strengthening family bonds. Their goal is holistic well-being, where each member feels heard, supported, and empowered to thrive. They seek guidance to navigate challenges and cultivate a nurturing environment for growth and connection.
My ideal client is a family seeking support in navigating the complexities of childhood and adolescent mental health. They may be grappling with issues like trauma, anxiety, or communication barriers. Their needs center around understanding and healing, fostering resilience, and strengthening family bonds. Their goal is holistic well-being, where each member feels heard, supported, and empowered to thrive. They seek guidance to navigate challenges and cultivate a nurturing environment for growth and connection.
(224) 298-8373 View (224) 298-8373
Photo of Agnieszka Krzeminska, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Agnieszka Krzeminska
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
Through authentic and transparent collaboration, Agnes empowers the individual and promotes mental wellness through empathy and evidence-based strategies. She practices DBT-informed therapy and psychodynamic therapy using humanistic and trauma-informed lenses to tie her practice together. In addition, Agnes uses mindfulness, yoga, nature, and art therapy to help the individual heal and discover more about themselves. She guides the individual to uncover and uproot, sometimes unconscious, issues stemming from past experiences and conditioning that inform limiting beliefs and thought patterns that are causing dysfunction/discomfort.
Through authentic and transparent collaboration, Agnes empowers the individual and promotes mental wellness through empathy and evidence-based strategies. She practices DBT-informed therapy and psychodynamic therapy using humanistic and trauma-informed lenses to tie her practice together. In addition, Agnes uses mindfulness, yoga, nature, and art therapy to help the individual heal and discover more about themselves. She guides the individual to uncover and uproot, sometimes unconscious, issues stemming from past experiences and conditioning that inform limiting beliefs and thought patterns that are causing dysfunction/discomfort.
(224) 505-2522 View (224) 505-2522
Photo of Desarae Munoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
Desarae Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Desarae Munoz is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Desarae (you can call her Desi for short! ) has worked with children since she was 12 years old. Desarae has helped raise her brothers and sister, so she is comfortable working with all ages. She enjoys helping people work on their communication skills and find resources. Desarae has experience in behavioral health, so she is familiar with psychosis, etc. She has also worked with geriatric clients so she would say she is very diverse. If this sounds like a good fit, Desarae would love to be the help that you need!.
Desarae Munoz is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Desarae (you can call her Desi for short! ) has worked with children since she was 12 years old. Desarae has helped raise her brothers and sister, so she is comfortable working with all ages. She enjoys helping people work on their communication skills and find resources. Desarae has experience in behavioral health, so she is familiar with psychosis, etc. She has also worked with geriatric clients so she would say she is very diverse. If this sounds like a good fit, Desarae would love to be the help that you need!.
(847) 443-5152 View (847) 443-5152
Photo of Jaimee L McMullen, Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Jaimee L McMullen
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I specialize in clinical counseling and art therapy. I utilize my skills to increase clients' installation of hope, trust, and faith within themselves. These qualities are imperative to gain self-esteem, improve insight, and strengthen stability in our lives. "I strongly believe that the healing process begins when a therapeutic relationship is established and that the power of art is an important piece of this process." My ideal clients are ones who are willing to work hard, play hard, have fun and enjoy life with the assistance of myself and, the therapeutic process.
I specialize in clinical counseling and art therapy. I utilize my skills to increase clients' installation of hope, trust, and faith within themselves. These qualities are imperative to gain self-esteem, improve insight, and strengthen stability in our lives. "I strongly believe that the healing process begins when a therapeutic relationship is established and that the power of art is an important piece of this process." My ideal clients are ones who are willing to work hard, play hard, have fun and enjoy life with the assistance of myself and, the therapeutic process.
(847) 607-6774 View (847) 607-6774
Photo of Erin Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
Erin Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
In life, sometimes situations happen to us that we cannot control. As a licensed clinical social worker for nearly a decade, I have a passion for working with adolescents to focus on what they can control. In our sessions, I help foster self-confidence by way of teaching coping strategies and building individualized skills to handle the different situations life brings their way.
In life, sometimes situations happen to us that we cannot control. As a licensed clinical social worker for nearly a decade, I have a passion for working with adolescents to focus on what they can control. In our sessions, I help foster self-confidence by way of teaching coping strategies and building individualized skills to handle the different situations life brings their way.
(224) 487-7761 View (224) 487-7761
Photo of Peonita Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vernon Hills, IL
Peonita Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT, DWCF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
The Couple and Family Clinic is creating connections that heal. We specialize in relational conflict and trauma, partner betrayal trauma, sexual compulsion, cultural trauma and grief and loss. Pain and adjustment is a part of life. I am here to walk with you through the process so that you will arrive at your goal feeling healthy and whole. The client's experience from beginning to the end of treatment are all very important to me and the healing process. We all desire healthy, happy and loving relationships, and this takes courage and will pull us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes loving ourselves is the best place to start.
The Couple and Family Clinic is creating connections that heal. We specialize in relational conflict and trauma, partner betrayal trauma, sexual compulsion, cultural trauma and grief and loss. Pain and adjustment is a part of life. I am here to walk with you through the process so that you will arrive at your goal feeling healthy and whole. The client's experience from beginning to the end of treatment are all very important to me and the healing process. We all desire healthy, happy and loving relationships, and this takes courage and will pull us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes loving ourselves is the best place to start.
(847) 416-6625 View (847) 416-6625
Photo of Marina Borrero Bobadilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vernon Hills, IL
Marina Borrero Bobadilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Marina Borrero Bobadilla is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BA in Applied Behavioral Science and an MSED in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. When life is chaotic, Marina offers a soft place to land that is warm and welcoming. Through a person-centered lens, Marina utilizes various techniques and has found an alignment with Gestalt Theory. This theory views the human mind and behavior as a whole. Having this holistic approach allows the space to make connections to the complex layers of ourselves by processing the here and now.
Marina Borrero Bobadilla is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BA in Applied Behavioral Science and an MSED in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. When life is chaotic, Marina offers a soft place to land that is warm and welcoming. Through a person-centered lens, Marina utilizes various techniques and has found an alignment with Gestalt Theory. This theory views the human mind and behavior as a whole. Having this holistic approach allows the space to make connections to the complex layers of ourselves by processing the here and now.
(847) 238-9867 View (847) 238-9867
Photo of Terre Cohen Tripoli in Vernon Hills, IL
Terre Cohen Tripoli
MA, LCPC, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Terre has expertise in depression, chronic thought and mood disorders and relationship issues; regardless of how that relationship is defined. Dysfunctional thoughts and emotions destroy us and those around us. Let her help you, through new thoughts and ideas, finally move towards a life that works for you rather than against you. Her practice is inspiring, motivational and directive when needed. She believes that we are all one and share in common the challenges of living life on life's terms; while still understanding that each of us brings our unique expression of these challenges into the session.
Terre has expertise in depression, chronic thought and mood disorders and relationship issues; regardless of how that relationship is defined. Dysfunctional thoughts and emotions destroy us and those around us. Let her help you, through new thoughts and ideas, finally move towards a life that works for you rather than against you. Her practice is inspiring, motivational and directive when needed. She believes that we are all one and share in common the challenges of living life on life's terms; while still understanding that each of us brings our unique expression of these challenges into the session.
(847) 908-3219 View (847) 908-3219

See more therapy options for Vernon Hills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Vernon Hills, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Vernon Hills, IL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
70% Coping Skills
67% Grief
65% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% Aetna
47% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Vernon Hills, IL see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Vernon Hills?

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.