Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Rachel Doyle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Doyle
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
My passion is to meet clients where they are today so that they can grow a better tomorrow. I work primarily with couples and individuals (age 13+) from a variety of circumstances. Throughout my career, I have developed a passion for empowering clients with tools to increase confidence, practical communication skills within relationships, and incorporating self-care practices to promote healing within the self.
My passion is to meet clients where they are today so that they can grow a better tomorrow. I work primarily with couples and individuals (age 13+) from a variety of circumstances. Throughout my career, I have developed a passion for empowering clients with tools to increase confidence, practical communication skills within relationships, and incorporating self-care practices to promote healing within the self.
(865) 302-3201 View (865) 302-3201
Photo of Alicia Lynn Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Alicia Lynn Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
My clients are focused on making their lives better through self-discovery and development of practical coping skills to deal with life issues. Most are seeking help with anxiety, OCD, trauma symptoms or other mood disorders that affect their ability to live life the way they want to live it.
My clients are focused on making their lives better through self-discovery and development of practical coping skills to deal with life issues. Most are seeking help with anxiety, OCD, trauma symptoms or other mood disorders that affect their ability to live life the way they want to live it.
(865) 635-4978 View (865) 635-4978
Photo of Amanda Gilliam, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Amanda Gilliam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932
Not accepting new clients
I am committed to working with children, adolescents, individuals and families who are in the midst of seeking understanding and guidance on the path towards healing. Everyone has a story to tell, and everyone deserves to be heard. When traumatic experiences occur, they can alter our view of ourselves and the world. Through therapy, we can work together to rewrite these narratives and beliefs. Who you are is greater than what you've done or had happen to you. I have worked intensely with trauma across the lifespan, adolescent and adult addiction and recovery, and a variety of mood and anxiety disorders.
I am committed to working with children, adolescents, individuals and families who are in the midst of seeking understanding and guidance on the path towards healing. Everyone has a story to tell, and everyone deserves to be heard. When traumatic experiences occur, they can alter our view of ourselves and the world. Through therapy, we can work together to rewrite these narratives and beliefs. Who you are is greater than what you've done or had happen to you. I have worked intensely with trauma across the lifespan, adolescent and adult addiction and recovery, and a variety of mood and anxiety disorders.
(865) 217-2602 View (865) 217-2602
Photo of Curtis B. Freed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Curtis B. Freed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSN, LPC, RN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37938  (Online Only)
We all experience events in our life that exceed our capacity to effectively cope. During those times we may need the support of a friend, or at times, a professional. Are you needing assistance to help you deal with difficulties in relationships, career, or other major decisions, the trauma of abuse, exposure to other traumatic events? Perhaps you are struggling daily with anxiety or depression or simply overwhelmed to the point of not being able to function effectively. If so, I will be glad to help.
We all experience events in our life that exceed our capacity to effectively cope. During those times we may need the support of a friend, or at times, a professional. Are you needing assistance to help you deal with difficulties in relationships, career, or other major decisions, the trauma of abuse, exposure to other traumatic events? Perhaps you are struggling daily with anxiety or depression or simply overwhelmed to the point of not being able to function effectively. If so, I will be glad to help.
(631) 459-4295 View (631) 459-4295
Photo of Claire Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Claire Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Hi there! I'm Claire, a licensed professional counselor living and working in Knoxville, TN. I know the journey to finding a therapist can be daunting and think you should be proud of yourself for taking this step! I have been working as a therapist for five years, three of those working exclusively with sexual trauma survivors. Through this experience, I realized my passion is creating safe spaces for people to explore their experiences without fear of judgment. I would consider it a privilege to create a space like this for you.
Hi there! I'm Claire, a licensed professional counselor living and working in Knoxville, TN. I know the journey to finding a therapist can be daunting and think you should be proud of yourself for taking this step! I have been working as a therapist for five years, three of those working exclusively with sexual trauma survivors. Through this experience, I realized my passion is creating safe spaces for people to explore their experiences without fear of judgment. I would consider it a privilege to create a space like this for you.
(865) 276-8289 View (865) 276-8289
Photo of Tamara Diaz-Hart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Tamara Diaz-Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Tammy has been practicing as a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist in Tennessee since 1999. She believes life is a journey and we all need supportive people. She strives to offer a non-judgmental and empathetic environment while teaching practical coping skills. Tammy counsels' individuals, families, parents, youth, and group therapy. Tammy provides therapy for depression and anxiety, addictions, chronic mental illness, anger management, ADHD, cultural and ethnic issues, parenting, spirituality, and grief. She offers individual therapy for thirteen and up, and family therapy for all ages.
Tammy has been practicing as a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist in Tennessee since 1999. She believes life is a journey and we all need supportive people. She strives to offer a non-judgmental and empathetic environment while teaching practical coping skills. Tammy counsels' individuals, families, parents, youth, and group therapy. Tammy provides therapy for depression and anxiety, addictions, chronic mental illness, anger management, ADHD, cultural and ethnic issues, parenting, spirituality, and grief. She offers individual therapy for thirteen and up, and family therapy for all ages.
(865) 205-6482 View (865) 205-6482
Photo of Beth Shoaff, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Beth Shoaff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Confiding in someone about your hardest times can be difficult and I am here to help guide you on that path, if you will have me! I wholeheartedly believe that everyone deserves a safe, comfortable space for self exploration. My hope is that you find a space in which you can be curious about yourself and your therapy process. I take an Interpersonal Process approach while also incorporating core concepts from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person Centered approaches. I believe to first start processing, we must build a strong foundation of skills and rapport.
Confiding in someone about your hardest times can be difficult and I am here to help guide you on that path, if you will have me! I wholeheartedly believe that everyone deserves a safe, comfortable space for self exploration. My hope is that you find a space in which you can be curious about yourself and your therapy process. I take an Interpersonal Process approach while also incorporating core concepts from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person Centered approaches. I believe to first start processing, we must build a strong foundation of skills and rapport.
(865) 674-4668 View (865) 674-4668
Photo of Lauren Wiest Barbian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Lauren Wiest Barbian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37920
I help Christian women who feel like life just isn't working out. Maybe you give constantly to others, but your relationships are still not satisfying. You work really hard to make things ok, but hard things keep happening, you aren't sure who you are, and you can't shake a sense of general disappointment with God, other people, and life in general. I'll work with you to overcome those hard things and disappointments in a way that lets you move toward healthy and connected relationships with God and other people.
I help Christian women who feel like life just isn't working out. Maybe you give constantly to others, but your relationships are still not satisfying. You work really hard to make things ok, but hard things keep happening, you aren't sure who you are, and you can't shake a sense of general disappointment with God, other people, and life in general. I'll work with you to overcome those hard things and disappointments in a way that lets you move toward healthy and connected relationships with God and other people.
(865) 234-3376 View (865) 234-3376
Photo of Catherine E. Zook-Bell, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Catherine E. Zook-Bell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
For more than twenty years I have had the privilege of working as a psychologist. My clients come to therapy with a number of different concerns and needs including mood disorders, trauma, relationship and family issues, transitions and personal growth. My intent is to work collaboratively with my clients toward symptom reduction and an improved sense of wellbeing and personal and relational healing.
For more than twenty years I have had the privilege of working as a psychologist. My clients come to therapy with a number of different concerns and needs including mood disorders, trauma, relationship and family issues, transitions and personal growth. My intent is to work collaboratively with my clients toward symptom reduction and an improved sense of wellbeing and personal and relational healing.
(865) 745-5041 View (865) 745-5041
Photo of Laura Gasparrini in Knoxville, TN
Laura Gasparrini
MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
You're a Heart-centered Creative⁠ who is walking the mystical path⁠ with practical feet.⁠ You’re called to make a change in your life, but up against questions of Permission & Capacity. ⁠ Can I . . .? Will I . . .?⁠ ⁠ You're in that potent space of Unknowing⁠ before Opening the Door⁠ and Walking into the New.⁠ ⁠ Welcome, Creative Soul.⁠ You've made your way here - to this threshold of Possibility and Promise. ⁠ If you'd like to connect more deeply with your Next Steps and your capacity to create an Artful Life that you Love, I can help.⁠ ⁠
You're a Heart-centered Creative⁠ who is walking the mystical path⁠ with practical feet.⁠ You’re called to make a change in your life, but up against questions of Permission & Capacity. ⁠ Can I . . .? Will I . . .?⁠ ⁠ You're in that potent space of Unknowing⁠ before Opening the Door⁠ and Walking into the New.⁠ ⁠ Welcome, Creative Soul.⁠ You've made your way here - to this threshold of Possibility and Promise. ⁠ If you'd like to connect more deeply with your Next Steps and your capacity to create an Artful Life that you Love, I can help.⁠ ⁠
(865) 509-8946 View (865) 509-8946
Photo of Rachel Mahler- Growth Mindset Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Mahler- Growth Mindset Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Welcoming New Clients. Did you know that if you have ADHD, you are more likely to struggle with anxiety & depression? You may also struggle with relationships, staying on task, managing emotions, and difficulties at work or school. You may feel like you are working against your brain versus with it. Having ADHD and it affecting your life daily feels exhausting. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel empowered throughout the therapeutic process. I approach therapy more as a conversation between the two of us and address any concerns or needs you feel are important. I approach each session with an open mind and without judgment.
Welcoming New Clients. Did you know that if you have ADHD, you are more likely to struggle with anxiety & depression? You may also struggle with relationships, staying on task, managing emotions, and difficulties at work or school. You may feel like you are working against your brain versus with it. Having ADHD and it affecting your life daily feels exhausting. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel empowered throughout the therapeutic process. I approach therapy more as a conversation between the two of us and address any concerns or needs you feel are important. I approach each session with an open mind and without judgment.
(865) 346-2209 View (865) 346-2209
Photo of Jessica Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Jessica Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Healing, Growth, Change.....Working toward these three things is the core of my therapeutic approach. I also believe in starting in the “Here and Now” to provide a foundation of coping with current happenings and difficult emotions. Once that foundation is built, we work toward “peeling away the layers” of unpacking the past or looking ahead to the future. Common themes that I address are self-esteem, communication, coping skills for depression and anxiety, success practices and stress management. I will provide a safe, nonjudgemental and nurturing space for you to process whatever it is that you need to work through.
Healing, Growth, Change.....Working toward these three things is the core of my therapeutic approach. I also believe in starting in the “Here and Now” to provide a foundation of coping with current happenings and difficult emotions. Once that foundation is built, we work toward “peeling away the layers” of unpacking the past or looking ahead to the future. Common themes that I address are self-esteem, communication, coping skills for depression and anxiety, success practices and stress management. I will provide a safe, nonjudgemental and nurturing space for you to process whatever it is that you need to work through.
(865) 337-8355 View (865) 337-8355
Photo of Roberta Wilbanks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Roberta Wilbanks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Life can feel like a struggle sometimes. We may have had negative experiences, and may find ourselves stuck in certain patterns or ways of reacting. As a therapist my goals are to explore and validate my clients’ experiences, help them better understand where our patterns come from and help to empower my clients to find new ways to move forward.
Life can feel like a struggle sometimes. We may have had negative experiences, and may find ourselves stuck in certain patterns or ways of reacting. As a therapist my goals are to explore and validate my clients’ experiences, help them better understand where our patterns come from and help to empower my clients to find new ways to move forward.
(865) 685-9875 View (865) 685-9875
Photo of Carrie Joy Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Carrie Joy Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921
Carrie's background and training is in Integrative Mental Health for Anxiety and Depression, Gender, and Substance Use (both abstinence and moderation goals) Therapy. After a very rewarding and joyful career of raising five children, Carrie discovered her passion for psychology, therapy, and the clients she has been honoured to work with. Nothing is quite as rewarding as watching a client during an "aha" moment or hearing about a particularly difficult challenge successfully overcome. Nothing touches the soul quite as much as someone trusting you with their deepest of pains.
Carrie's background and training is in Integrative Mental Health for Anxiety and Depression, Gender, and Substance Use (both abstinence and moderation goals) Therapy. After a very rewarding and joyful career of raising five children, Carrie discovered her passion for psychology, therapy, and the clients she has been honoured to work with. Nothing is quite as rewarding as watching a client during an "aha" moment or hearing about a particularly difficult challenge successfully overcome. Nothing touches the soul quite as much as someone trusting you with their deepest of pains.
(813) 541-0145 View (813) 541-0145
Photo of Camelia Guernsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Camelia Guernsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
My primary goal in working with clients is to build a trusting and transparent relationship where together we can explore the relationship they have with self, important people in their lives, and the unique environments they navigate. This means my approach is insight-driven and built on the belief that self-knowledge is an empowering tool needed to create a deeper understanding of patterns, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In my experience, this process creates space for the brain to consciously make the desired changes.
My primary goal in working with clients is to build a trusting and transparent relationship where together we can explore the relationship they have with self, important people in their lives, and the unique environments they navigate. This means my approach is insight-driven and built on the belief that self-knowledge is an empowering tool needed to create a deeper understanding of patterns, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In my experience, this process creates space for the brain to consciously make the desired changes.
(865) 280-1532 View (865) 280-1532
Photo of Anna Catherine Kill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Anna Catherine Kill
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC(t), NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! I’m Anna Catherine, and my ultimate goal is to support you in overcoming emotional obstacles, harmful cognitions, and painful experiences. I prioritize creating a safe space for my clients through an empathetic and adaptive therapeutic relationship, meeting you right where you are in your healing journey and honoring your unique mind, body, and spirit. I approach my clients with curiosity, celebrate their strengths, and highlight their resiliencies as they pursue their growth goals. I welcome clients of all social and cultural backgrounds.
Hello! I’m Anna Catherine, and my ultimate goal is to support you in overcoming emotional obstacles, harmful cognitions, and painful experiences. I prioritize creating a safe space for my clients through an empathetic and adaptive therapeutic relationship, meeting you right where you are in your healing journey and honoring your unique mind, body, and spirit. I approach my clients with curiosity, celebrate their strengths, and highlight their resiliencies as they pursue their growth goals. I welcome clients of all social and cultural backgrounds.
(865) 737-1902 View (865) 737-1902
Photo of Taira Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Taira Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people pleasing humans who want to break the chains of self-doubt and overthinking. Through empowerment and goal-oriented therapy you will explore how your past as impacted your present. Together we will instill hope in order to take back control of your life.
I specialize in working with people pleasing humans who want to break the chains of self-doubt and overthinking. Through empowerment and goal-oriented therapy you will explore how your past as impacted your present. Together we will instill hope in order to take back control of your life.
(423) 380-0403 View (423) 380-0403
Photo of Brooke L Denny, Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Brooke L Denny
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Not accepting new clients
Hello! My name is Brooke, and I am a licensed professional counselor with over 10 years in the field. I specialize in working with trauma- sexual, emotional and physical, as well as relationships issues, co-dependency, adjustment struggles, depression, anxiety, college mental health considerations, and compassion fatigue.. I work best with highly motivated individuals who are down to get to work on presenting issues, and approach all therapeutic relationships from the perspective of collaboration and transparency. It's my passion in life to create and hold space for healing, and provide the necessary tools for healing.
Hello! My name is Brooke, and I am a licensed professional counselor with over 10 years in the field. I specialize in working with trauma- sexual, emotional and physical, as well as relationships issues, co-dependency, adjustment struggles, depression, anxiety, college mental health considerations, and compassion fatigue.. I work best with highly motivated individuals who are down to get to work on presenting issues, and approach all therapeutic relationships from the perspective of collaboration and transparency. It's my passion in life to create and hold space for healing, and provide the necessary tools for healing.
(865) 217-2531 View (865) 217-2531
Photo of Nicole Shepherd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Nicole Shepherd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Nicole Shepherd is a licensed professional counselor who works to cultivate a warm and goal focused relationship with her clients. Nicole has been working as a therapist in a variety of residential and outpatient settings since 2012, serving those who have struggled with severe and persistent mental health needs. Nicole has a passion for working with those 13 and older who struggle with school and work stress, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief, self-esteem issues, autistic adults who have struggled to acclimate to the challenges and stressors that come with adulthood, and those who have a history of spiritual abuse.
Nicole Shepherd is a licensed professional counselor who works to cultivate a warm and goal focused relationship with her clients. Nicole has been working as a therapist in a variety of residential and outpatient settings since 2012, serving those who have struggled with severe and persistent mental health needs. Nicole has a passion for working with those 13 and older who struggle with school and work stress, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief, self-esteem issues, autistic adults who have struggled to acclimate to the challenges and stressors that come with adulthood, and those who have a history of spiritual abuse.
(865) 424-1862 View (865) 424-1862
Photo of Tony D. Weaver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Tony D. Weaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Tony is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has extensive experience treating both first responders and military personnel and their dependents for trauma-related issues as well as a host of other concerns. Tony and his family reside in West Knoxville and he is well versed in the Tennessee culture having been raised in East Tennessee. In addition to an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Tony earned a Master of Divinity and served for over 15 years in the pastoral setting. From his broad academic and experiential background he brings to the clinical setting a wealth of wisdom and skill with a unique perspective.
Tony is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has extensive experience treating both first responders and military personnel and their dependents for trauma-related issues as well as a host of other concerns. Tony and his family reside in West Knoxville and he is well versed in the Tennessee culture having been raised in East Tennessee. In addition to an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Tony earned a Master of Divinity and served for over 15 years in the pastoral setting. From his broad academic and experiential background he brings to the clinical setting a wealth of wisdom and skill with a unique perspective.
(865) 234-3426 View (865) 234-3426

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Optum

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.