Therapists in Emeryville, CA

Photo of Lisa Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Lisa Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
My professional career started in 2004 and I continue to love helping people progress to their goals. I have a holistic approach to health and wellness. Therapeutically speaking, my primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Solutions Focused, and Strengths-based therapies; however, I believe every person and circumstance should be individualized based on the client's wants and needs. I like to meet people where they are and draw off of their strengths to guide them in improving their circumstances and overall quality of life.
My professional career started in 2004 and I continue to love helping people progress to their goals. I have a holistic approach to health and wellness. Therapeutically speaking, my primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Solutions Focused, and Strengths-based therapies; however, I believe every person and circumstance should be individualized based on the client's wants and needs. I like to meet people where they are and draw off of their strengths to guide them in improving their circumstances and overall quality of life.
(415) 969-5753 View (415) 969-5753
Photo of Kimberly Medina, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Kimberly Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94662  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a licensed therapist I am continually inspired by witnessing clients make sense of difficult life experiences, past or present. Maybe this is a starting point for you and you are new to therapy, or recommitting to therapy after a break. Perhaps mental health issues (like depression or anxiety) were not discussed in the family or community in which you grew up, or you have had difficulty reaching out for help for other reasons. Sometimes what holds people back from seeking help is self judgment (‘I should be able to handle this’), or fear that things won’t improve. You are certainly not alone, and help is available.
Welcome! As a licensed therapist I am continually inspired by witnessing clients make sense of difficult life experiences, past or present. Maybe this is a starting point for you and you are new to therapy, or recommitting to therapy after a break. Perhaps mental health issues (like depression or anxiety) were not discussed in the family or community in which you grew up, or you have had difficulty reaching out for help for other reasons. Sometimes what holds people back from seeking help is self judgment (‘I should be able to handle this’), or fear that things won’t improve. You are certainly not alone, and help is available.
(510) 327-3339 View (510) 327-3339
Photo of Mercy De Vault, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Mercy De Vault
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I choose to use an approach that is respectful, non-blaming, and collaborative. We live our lives through stories. Often times, these stories no longer align with our values and beliefs. This is where problems emerge and attach themselves to our stories. By gaining some distance from the problem, we can begin to change our relationship with the problem and discover preferred ways of being that closely align with our beliefs. I aim to empower my clients by positioning them as experts in their lives in a non-pathologizing, inclusive environment, where the problem is the problem and we together find the solution.
I choose to use an approach that is respectful, non-blaming, and collaborative. We live our lives through stories. Often times, these stories no longer align with our values and beliefs. This is where problems emerge and attach themselves to our stories. By gaining some distance from the problem, we can begin to change our relationship with the problem and discover preferred ways of being that closely align with our beliefs. I aim to empower my clients by positioning them as experts in their lives in a non-pathologizing, inclusive environment, where the problem is the problem and we together find the solution.
(510) 422-1767 View (510) 422-1767
Photo of Cecily Kaballo, Psychologist in Emeryville, CA
Cecily Kaballo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I recognize and honor that everyone is unique and processes at their own pace. I am warm and collaborative, and I emphasize building a strong therapeutic alliance and identifying a client’s short- and long-term goals. I provide an eclectic range of evidence-based approaches that can be tailored for each individual.
I recognize and honor that everyone is unique and processes at their own pace. I am warm and collaborative, and I emphasize building a strong therapeutic alliance and identifying a client’s short- and long-term goals. I provide an eclectic range of evidence-based approaches that can be tailored for each individual.
(510) 369-1246 View (510) 369-1246
Photo of Maegan Willan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Maegan Willan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Whatever you have lived through--healing is possible. I provide therapy for people living outside of the mainstream, whether because of values and ideals or personal identity. Therapy with me doesn't require that you or I believe there is anything wrong with you. Instead it is a place where both of us work collaboratively and creatively to develop an environment where you can take more and more risks to be yourself. It is a place to keep growing. It is a place to get real about what matters to you and what challenges you. Keywords: radical, queer, artists, activists, social justice, progressive
Whatever you have lived through--healing is possible. I provide therapy for people living outside of the mainstream, whether because of values and ideals or personal identity. Therapy with me doesn't require that you or I believe there is anything wrong with you. Instead it is a place where both of us work collaboratively and creatively to develop an environment where you can take more and more risks to be yourself. It is a place to keep growing. It is a place to get real about what matters to you and what challenges you. Keywords: radical, queer, artists, activists, social justice, progressive
(510) 248-4807 View (510) 248-4807
Photo of Aleiya Cherry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Aleiya Cherry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I work from a relational, holistic approach because I believe making sure my clients have a safe space to fully show up as themselves, while taking into account all aspects of their lives that could be contributing to their presenting challenges, is of high importance. All of you Matters. My approach to therapy is Client-Centered and Integrative. I incorporate other evidence-based techniques including Narrative, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California.
I work from a relational, holistic approach because I believe making sure my clients have a safe space to fully show up as themselves, while taking into account all aspects of their lives that could be contributing to their presenting challenges, is of high importance. All of you Matters. My approach to therapy is Client-Centered and Integrative. I incorporate other evidence-based techniques including Narrative, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California.
(510) 826-2323 View (510) 826-2323
Photo of Shannon McHenry-Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Shannon McHenry-Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I work with individuals to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
I work with individuals to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
(415) 707-7928 View (415) 707-7928
Photo of Maude Davis, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Emeryville, CA
Maude Davis
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, PhD(c), RDT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Sometimes, when we hear the call of fate, we listen with an inner ear for quiet whispers of the soul. This call arrives in many forms. My consultation practice brings together Jungian analysis with expressive arts therapy. I offer a safe place for you to recognize your unique identity. In our work together, we will follow the varied threads of your story so you can weave and shape your own destiny. My approach uses verbal and non-verbal methods, encouraging spontaneity and the healing influence of the imagination. These sensorial processes lead to an aesthetic and spiritual understanding of soul.
Sometimes, when we hear the call of fate, we listen with an inner ear for quiet whispers of the soul. This call arrives in many forms. My consultation practice brings together Jungian analysis with expressive arts therapy. I offer a safe place for you to recognize your unique identity. In our work together, we will follow the varied threads of your story so you can weave and shape your own destiny. My approach uses verbal and non-verbal methods, encouraging spontaneity and the healing influence of the imagination. These sensorial processes lead to an aesthetic and spiritual understanding of soul.
(510) 306-7074 View (510) 306-7074
Photo of Brian Kornobis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Brian Kornobis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can reconnect with your inner strengths to overcome obstacles standing between you and your goals. Whether you are dealing with a relationship difficulty, career dilemma, recent loss, depression, or anxiety, choosing to begin therapy is a courageous step toward growth and healing.
I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can reconnect with your inner strengths to overcome obstacles standing between you and your goals. Whether you are dealing with a relationship difficulty, career dilemma, recent loss, depression, or anxiety, choosing to begin therapy is a courageous step toward growth and healing.
(510) 422-1569 View (510) 422-1569
Photo of John Hal Brownson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
John Hal Brownson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Anxiety. It's part of the human experience, but too much of it, experienced for too long, wears us down, affecting both our mental and physical health. If you are isolating, cutting yourself off from friends and the world; if you spend too much of your time trying to mute your anxiety with drugs, TV, the internet; if you lie awake counting catastrophes and replaying the day's missteps, I can help. Take a couple of long, slow, deep breaths, and call me. Let's talk.
Anxiety. It's part of the human experience, but too much of it, experienced for too long, wears us down, affecting both our mental and physical health. If you are isolating, cutting yourself off from friends and the world; if you spend too much of your time trying to mute your anxiety with drugs, TV, the internet; if you lie awake counting catastrophes and replaying the day's missteps, I can help. Take a couple of long, slow, deep breaths, and call me. Let's talk.
(510) 757-9657 View (510) 757-9657
Photo of Martha Ton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Martha Ton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
As a Latina therapist, I have ample experience assisting the LGBTQIA+ population, immigrant people, and couples having difficulty becoming parents or transitioning to parenthood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach for clients to find well-being. I have also worked with the elderly population to help them discover new meaning in life. Helping individuals find empowerment and joy in their new phase of life is a true joy as a provider. I am passionate about helping people increase their support systems, self-esteem, and assertive communication.
As a Latina therapist, I have ample experience assisting the LGBTQIA+ population, immigrant people, and couples having difficulty becoming parents or transitioning to parenthood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach for clients to find well-being. I have also worked with the elderly population to help them discover new meaning in life. Helping individuals find empowerment and joy in their new phase of life is a true joy as a provider. I am passionate about helping people increase their support systems, self-esteem, and assertive communication.
(415) 996-1863 View (415) 996-1863
Photo of Lori Silver-Favors, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Lori Silver-Favors
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I have successfully helped people recovering from addiction issues, depression, childhood issues that are unresolved and conflict in primary relationships whether it is with a family member or a co-worker. I work from a strength-based model in that I help people identity coping skills that are working and apply these skills to areas of life that are more difficult. I view people from a humanistic perspective and am non-authoritarian in my style. I have a relaxed and friendly style and put people at ease.
I have successfully helped people recovering from addiction issues, depression, childhood issues that are unresolved and conflict in primary relationships whether it is with a family member or a co-worker. I work from a strength-based model in that I help people identity coping skills that are working and apply these skills to areas of life that are more difficult. I view people from a humanistic perspective and am non-authoritarian in my style. I have a relaxed and friendly style and put people at ease.
(510) 947-8414 View (510) 947-8414
Barbara Jean A Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
(510) 949-3983 View (510) 949-3983
Photo of Katherine Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Katherine Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Katherine Roberts is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy) degree from the University of San Francisco. Katherine utilizes an eclectic approach to assist individuals in improving functioning and increasing feelings of well-being. Her goal is to provide a safe space for people to explore their emotions and better understand their behaviors.
Katherine Roberts is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy) degree from the University of San Francisco. Katherine utilizes an eclectic approach to assist individuals in improving functioning and increasing feelings of well-being. Her goal is to provide a safe space for people to explore their emotions and better understand their behaviors.
(510) 714-3295 View (510) 714-3295
Photo of Kurt Vaillancourt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Kurt Vaillancourt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
For nearly 20 years, I have worked with adults, families, and couples both individually and in group settings. Some of the areas I have provided treatment for include substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and adjustment disorders due to life transitions. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and obtained a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) in 2005.
For nearly 20 years, I have worked with adults, families, and couples both individually and in group settings. Some of the areas I have provided treatment for include substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and adjustment disorders due to life transitions. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and obtained a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) in 2005.
(408) 340-9952 View (408) 340-9952
Photo of Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94662  (Online Only)
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
(510) 421-0320 View (510) 421-0320
Photo of Kasey Varga, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Kasey Varga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
Are you feeling heartbroken or utterly confused by a romantic relationship? Are you a parent who is endlessly stirred up by your child's behavior? I offer an opportunity to utilize heartbreak in service of growth and to begin to untangle the reality of your current relationships from the residue of your history. I challenge parents to advocate for their own needs while also strongly considering the needs of their children. I teach them how to facilitate the full expression of emotion in children. In light of a great deal of training and personal experience I bring a deep respect for the unknown and a willingness to land in mystery.
Are you feeling heartbroken or utterly confused by a romantic relationship? Are you a parent who is endlessly stirred up by your child's behavior? I offer an opportunity to utilize heartbreak in service of growth and to begin to untangle the reality of your current relationships from the residue of your history. I challenge parents to advocate for their own needs while also strongly considering the needs of their children. I teach them how to facilitate the full expression of emotion in children. In light of a great deal of training and personal experience I bring a deep respect for the unknown and a willingness to land in mystery.
(628) 227-5522 View (628) 227-5522
Photo of Melanie Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Melanie Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be I am dedicated to helping you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey. I am passionate about understanding, accepting, and empathizing with my clients. I approach therapy holistically, which encompasses spirit, body, and mind.
Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be I am dedicated to helping you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey. I am passionate about understanding, accepting, and empathizing with my clients. I approach therapy holistically, which encompasses spirit, body, and mind.
(310) 744-6232 View (310) 744-6232
Photo of Sairanet Oliveros, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Sairanet Oliveros
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Sairanet Oliveros is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated with a Master of Art's in Counseling. Sairanet's therapeutic approach is deeply relational and warm. Her goal is to offer an authentic and compassionate space that will support your navigation through life’s complexities and create lasting transformation. Outside of work, Sairanet enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors in nature, and watching Netflix.
Sairanet Oliveros is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated with a Master of Art's in Counseling. Sairanet's therapeutic approach is deeply relational and warm. Her goal is to offer an authentic and compassionate space that will support your navigation through life’s complexities and create lasting transformation. Outside of work, Sairanet enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors in nature, and watching Netflix.
(510) 984-9452 View (510) 984-9452
Photo of Roni Alperin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Roni Alperin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I believe that no matter how difficult of a time you're having, I can help you find your balance and power. I know that rage; shame, confusion and helplessness can make you feel stuck, lost and hopeless. I also know that there is a way out. In my therapy office you will feel safe and supported to unravel your feelings and thoughts, identify patterns, themes, get clear on what brought you to the place you are currently in and make intelligent new choices.
I believe that no matter how difficult of a time you're having, I can help you find your balance and power. I know that rage; shame, confusion and helplessness can make you feel stuck, lost and hopeless. I also know that there is a way out. In my therapy office you will feel safe and supported to unravel your feelings and thoughts, identify patterns, themes, get clear on what brought you to the place you are currently in and make intelligent new choices.
(408) 628-1776 View (408) 628-1776

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Emeryville, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$190

Therapists in Emeryville, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Grief
60% Self Esteem
58% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
55% Anthem | Elevance
52% MHN | Health Net

How Therapists in Emeryville, CA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Emeryville?

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.