Therapists in Tempe, AZ

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Photo of Shannon J Schiefer, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Shannon J Schiefer
Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Waitlist for new clients
Are you your own worst enemy? Does your inner voice say, "What's wrong with me" "Why did I do that" "I should(n't)..." "I'm not good enough" Together, we can find a different way to relate to yourself. I invite you to consider, when you learn to offer yourself love and compassion, you deepen intimacy, connection and respect within your relationships, increase confidence, achieve goals, and attract your dreams. Once we choose love for ourselves, everything changes! "Our wounds are often openings into the best and most beautiful part of us" ~ Richo
Are you your own worst enemy? Does your inner voice say, "What's wrong with me" "Why did I do that" "I should(n't)..." "I'm not good enough" Together, we can find a different way to relate to yourself. I invite you to consider, when you learn to offer yourself love and compassion, you deepen intimacy, connection and respect within your relationships, increase confidence, achieve goals, and attract your dreams. Once we choose love for ourselves, everything changes! "Our wounds are often openings into the best and most beautiful part of us" ~ Richo
(480) 420-7524 View (480) 420-7524
Photo of Kim Watkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Kim Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
My name is Kim Watkins. I hold a Specialist in Education degree in Community Counseling and have been a therapist for 11+ years. Through my experience in community mental health, substance abuse, and private practice, I believe we all do the best we can with the knowledge and skills that we have. When navigating life’s challenges becomes difficult, counseling can help. I utilize a combination of modalities to assist clients in developing skills to manage depression, anxiety, trauma, and an array of other mental health concerns, while improving problem solving and communication skills. Reach out to start your progress today.
My name is Kim Watkins. I hold a Specialist in Education degree in Community Counseling and have been a therapist for 11+ years. Through my experience in community mental health, substance abuse, and private practice, I believe we all do the best we can with the knowledge and skills that we have. When navigating life’s challenges becomes difficult, counseling can help. I utilize a combination of modalities to assist clients in developing skills to manage depression, anxiety, trauma, and an array of other mental health concerns, while improving problem solving and communication skills. Reach out to start your progress today.
(480) 660-0710 View (480) 660-0710
Photo of Dr. Brian Sillanpaa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Dr. Brian Sillanpaa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
We all have challenges. Admittedly some are objectively harder than others but our own challenges are unique to each of us and can seem devastating from our perspective. I would like to help you work through yours. I am not going to give you platitudes. Instead, I want to help you learn to accept, cope, cry if you need to, and then get back up! It’s not easy, but you can do hard things! As a college professor, and my background in medicine, my natural instinct is to make sure you understand both the biological and psychological reasons behind your troubles and then we work together to put YOU back in control of your life.
We all have challenges. Admittedly some are objectively harder than others but our own challenges are unique to each of us and can seem devastating from our perspective. I would like to help you work through yours. I am not going to give you platitudes. Instead, I want to help you learn to accept, cope, cry if you need to, and then get back up! It’s not easy, but you can do hard things! As a college professor, and my background in medicine, my natural instinct is to make sure you understand both the biological and psychological reasons behind your troubles and then we work together to put YOU back in control of your life.
(480) 568-2784 x101 View (480) 568-2784 x101
Photo of Mikayla Dibelka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Mikayla Dibelka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I know that you are looking for an accepting, individualized environment to heal and grow through past experiences and current challenges. You may feel like you don’t understand what is happening in your life, you may start to notice patterns and make connections, but find that you don’t know where to go from here, how to build healthier habits and new understandings of the world, or just generally feel overwhelmed and all around not great.
I know that you are looking for an accepting, individualized environment to heal and grow through past experiences and current challenges. You may feel like you don’t understand what is happening in your life, you may start to notice patterns and make connections, but find that you don’t know where to go from here, how to build healthier habits and new understandings of the world, or just generally feel overwhelmed and all around not great.
(480) 906-4210 x1 View (480) 906-4210 x1
Photo of Makiya Badada, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Makiya Badada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Are you a young adult or a woman feeling anxious, sad, or overwhelmed while navigating major life transitions? If you are on a journey to enhance your self-esteem and reduce anxiety and depression. I am here to support you in your journey. As your therapist, I aim to nurture an environment where you feel heard, validated, and free to express your true self. Together, we'll focus on reducing your anxiety and depression. I offer you practical steps needed to attain your goals, all while improving your overall quality of life.
Are you a young adult or a woman feeling anxious, sad, or overwhelmed while navigating major life transitions? If you are on a journey to enhance your self-esteem and reduce anxiety and depression. I am here to support you in your journey. As your therapist, I aim to nurture an environment where you feel heard, validated, and free to express your true self. Together, we'll focus on reducing your anxiety and depression. I offer you practical steps needed to attain your goals, all while improving your overall quality of life.
(480) 418-0293 View (480) 418-0293
Photo of Latricia Bea Andrews-Gilman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Latricia Bea Andrews-Gilman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
Waitlist for new clients
Clinical Social Work is a collaboration between the therapist and the client. The client identifies the issues and stated goal(s), and with the therapist develops strategies for achieving success. The therapist provides a variety of methods to help the client achieve a healthier lifestyle. In any partnership, the success or failure depends upon cooperation, good understanding and mutual effort.
Clinical Social Work is a collaboration between the therapist and the client. The client identifies the issues and stated goal(s), and with the therapist develops strategies for achieving success. The therapist provides a variety of methods to help the client achieve a healthier lifestyle. In any partnership, the success or failure depends upon cooperation, good understanding and mutual effort.
(480) 462-5816 View (480) 462-5816
Photo of Valerie Niemela, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Valerie Niemela
Counselor, LMHCA, LAC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85288
Hello! Life can become messy, with struggles and failures. I believe in the therapeutic process to find meaning during life’s difficulties. I have worked in crisis settings and have experience de-escalating individuals with imminent and passive suicidal thoughts. I have special interest in working with individuals who live with disability; children, teens, and young adults who feel alone on their pathway of life and wonder what meaning is left.
Hello! Life can become messy, with struggles and failures. I believe in the therapeutic process to find meaning during life’s difficulties. I have worked in crisis settings and have experience de-escalating individuals with imminent and passive suicidal thoughts. I have special interest in working with individuals who live with disability; children, teens, and young adults who feel alone on their pathway of life and wonder what meaning is left.
(520) 779-7453 View (520) 779-7453
Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) I can provide personalized and integrative therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is safe, non-judgmental, and fosters the growth of my clients. I will utilize evidenced based approaches and can work with you to address various challenges such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Let's work together to transform your relationships!
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) I can provide personalized and integrative therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is safe, non-judgmental, and fosters the growth of my clients. I will utilize evidenced based approaches and can work with you to address various challenges such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Let's work together to transform your relationships!
(480) 470-1709 View (480) 470-1709
Photo of William L. Bradley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tempe, AZ
William L. Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the Phoenix area for the last 30 years. I have a complete knowledge of the resources within the community. My experience includes work with troubled teens in a variety of contexts. I have 15 years experience as a provider for the courts providing mediation, counseling, therapeutic supervision and evaluations for families in the transitions of divorce. I am also a skilled relationship and marital therapist. I specialize in men's issues. I have also had extensive experience in anger management, depression and anxiety disorders.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the Phoenix area for the last 30 years. I have a complete knowledge of the resources within the community. My experience includes work with troubled teens in a variety of contexts. I have 15 years experience as a provider for the courts providing mediation, counseling, therapeutic supervision and evaluations for families in the transitions of divorce. I am also a skilled relationship and marital therapist. I specialize in men's issues. I have also had extensive experience in anger management, depression and anxiety disorders.
(480) 921-3711 View (480) 921-3711
Photo of Roger Kelly Wallmueller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Roger Kelly Wallmueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I believe that counseling is about empowering us to make the positive changes in our lives that we believe we need to live a fulfilling and happy life. Sometimes we have learned dysfunctional thought processes from the experiences life has provided us. Having a trusted professional to help us sift through our beliefs and thoughts in a non judgmental way can provide us with a different perspective, can enables us to make the changes that we already know we need to make, but have been unable to make happen.
I believe that counseling is about empowering us to make the positive changes in our lives that we believe we need to live a fulfilling and happy life. Sometimes we have learned dysfunctional thought processes from the experiences life has provided us. Having a trusted professional to help us sift through our beliefs and thoughts in a non judgmental way can provide us with a different perspective, can enables us to make the changes that we already know we need to make, but have been unable to make happen.
(480) 680-8508 View (480) 680-8508
Photo of Jacob Benites, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Jacob Benites
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Hello! My name is Jacob Benites, and I hope to accompany you on your journey towards living a fulfilling life. If you've ever felt like your brain won’t leave you alone, or your feelings prevent you from living the life you want to live, then you are not alone. I love helping people identify their values, pull meaning from their emotions, and learn how to work with their brain, rather than against it. I’m here to help you be present and enjoy the life you’ve got, as well as make steps toward creating a better future.
Hello! My name is Jacob Benites, and I hope to accompany you on your journey towards living a fulfilling life. If you've ever felt like your brain won’t leave you alone, or your feelings prevent you from living the life you want to live, then you are not alone. I love helping people identify their values, pull meaning from their emotions, and learn how to work with their brain, rather than against it. I’m here to help you be present and enjoy the life you’ve got, as well as make steps toward creating a better future.
(480) 631-6999 View (480) 631-6999
Photo of Claire Coonrod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Claire Coonrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
Can't stop thinking about the "what if's"? Or maybe you find yourself spending too much time obsessing about what people think of you. Sometimes you get to a point where enjoying the present is difficult and you just can’t seem to shake the feeling of being “on edge.” You may even get a sinking feeling in your stomach when Sunday rolls around knowing you have work or school ahead of you. Feelings and thoughts like this may seem like roadblocks to achieving your goals; however, change is possible.
Can't stop thinking about the "what if's"? Or maybe you find yourself spending too much time obsessing about what people think of you. Sometimes you get to a point where enjoying the present is difficult and you just can’t seem to shake the feeling of being “on edge.” You may even get a sinking feeling in your stomach when Sunday rolls around knowing you have work or school ahead of you. Feelings and thoughts like this may seem like roadblocks to achieving your goals; however, change is possible.
(928) 260-0401 View (928) 260-0401
Nicole Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist who finds healing in humor, travel, diversity, great food, and a whole lot of bad words. I enjoy working with adults 18+ on a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, vocational and academic concerns, relationship distress, travel fatigue, immigration and cultural concerns, parenting, and more. If you feel lost, out of touch, have a case of the "blahs", or just really don't know where those pieces of happiness are hiding in your life, I've got therapy GPS...so let's go find them.
I am an experienced therapist who finds healing in humor, travel, diversity, great food, and a whole lot of bad words. I enjoy working with adults 18+ on a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, vocational and academic concerns, relationship distress, travel fatigue, immigration and cultural concerns, parenting, and more. If you feel lost, out of touch, have a case of the "blahs", or just really don't know where those pieces of happiness are hiding in your life, I've got therapy GPS...so let's go find them.
(480) 470-0389 View (480) 470-0389
Photo of June Lin-Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tempe, AZ
June Lin-Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MEd, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Life can throw hardships at us, and our pain is so real and deep. My passion is to walk alongside clients through healing, gaining strength, and building resilience during tough times. I want to help individuals and families find solutions and hope for wise, healthy, and meaningful living. We will turn hardships into growth opportunities by sorting out internal and external sources of distress leading to anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. We will design an individual and family healing plan to restore freedom and peace and live out the more significant potential in life.
Life can throw hardships at us, and our pain is so real and deep. My passion is to walk alongside clients through healing, gaining strength, and building resilience during tough times. I want to help individuals and families find solutions and hope for wise, healthy, and meaningful living. We will turn hardships into growth opportunities by sorting out internal and external sources of distress leading to anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. We will design an individual and family healing plan to restore freedom and peace and live out the more significant potential in life.
(928) 267-6209 View (928) 267-6209
Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, Psychologist in Tempe, AZ
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(480) 933-1369 View (480) 933-1369
Photo of ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic in Tempe, AZ
ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic
DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
(602) 693-1243 View (602) 693-1243
Photo of Benjamin Meyer, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Benjamin Meyer
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Do you find yourself wondering why you do what you do? Repeating the same patterns? You are not alone. In my practice, I'll guide you to learn why these things occur and what you can do to change them. We’ll take a deep dive into your childhood and reconcile the experiences you had then with the ones you’re having now. We'll take a look at how your awareness is shaped by these kinds of powerful forces and help you get to point where you can start making the types of decisions you can feel proud of.
Do you find yourself wondering why you do what you do? Repeating the same patterns? You are not alone. In my practice, I'll guide you to learn why these things occur and what you can do to change them. We’ll take a deep dive into your childhood and reconcile the experiences you had then with the ones you’re having now. We'll take a look at how your awareness is shaped by these kinds of powerful forces and help you get to point where you can start making the types of decisions you can feel proud of.
(480) 613-7256 View (480) 613-7256
Photo of Jael Harper, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Jael Harper
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
I recognize that there are many difficulties that a person may go through in their lives, whether they be related to relationships, anxiety, trauma, or other life stressors. I believe that with the help of therapy these difficulties can become lessened, and you can learn the skills needed to live a more fulfilled life. I work with people from diverse backgrounds and consider myself a member of the queer community. I believe that it is important to create a safe space for all people to seek to help without fear of judgement.
I recognize that there are many difficulties that a person may go through in their lives, whether they be related to relationships, anxiety, trauma, or other life stressors. I believe that with the help of therapy these difficulties can become lessened, and you can learn the skills needed to live a more fulfilled life. I work with people from diverse backgrounds and consider myself a member of the queer community. I believe that it is important to create a safe space for all people to seek to help without fear of judgement.
(602) 491-9730 View (602) 491-9730
Photo of Andrew Houston Hough, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Andrew Houston Hough
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
I thrive working with clients learning to understand and heal from addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, church hurt, individuals questioning sexuality, persons working through career transitions, and couples navigating how to communicate and deepen emotional and physical intimacy. My aim is to provide a space where you can connect with yourself, feel accepted, whole, and human, and a place where you can learn to thrive again.
I thrive working with clients learning to understand and heal from addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, church hurt, individuals questioning sexuality, persons working through career transitions, and couples navigating how to communicate and deepen emotional and physical intimacy. My aim is to provide a space where you can connect with yourself, feel accepted, whole, and human, and a place where you can learn to thrive again.
(602) 894-9654 x16 View (602) 894-9654 x16
Photo of Christina Kafalas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Christina Kafalas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling lost or unsure of yourself? Do you feel like you’re drifting through life with little meaning or purpose? I specialize in working with people who want to improve their self-esteem and sense of self. I offer an affirming space for people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community and polyamory/ethical non-monogamy community. I specialize in working with children and families and provide quality care for a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, social challenges, and identity issues. I’m also fluent in American Sign Language and can incorporate it into therapy sessions.
Have you been feeling lost or unsure of yourself? Do you feel like you’re drifting through life with little meaning or purpose? I specialize in working with people who want to improve their self-esteem and sense of self. I offer an affirming space for people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community and polyamory/ethical non-monogamy community. I specialize in working with children and families and provide quality care for a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, social challenges, and identity issues. I’m also fluent in American Sign Language and can incorporate it into therapy sessions.
(602) 362-6739 View (602) 362-6739

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Tempe, AZ

700+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Tempe, AZ who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Self Esteem
77% Trauma and PTSD
76% Relationship Issues
75% Coping Skills
74% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Tempe, AZ see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Tempe?

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.