Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Archway Counseling, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Archway Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Welcome to Knoxville's Premier Center for Counseling & Psychological Services. We have multiple licensed Psychologists who are currently accepting new patients. We are trained as generalists and therefore are able to work with a wide range of presenting concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, women's issues, perinatal issues, self-harm, OCD, sports performance issues and more. We provide individual, couples, and group therapy. Call today to schedule your first appointment!
Welcome to Knoxville's Premier Center for Counseling & Psychological Services. We have multiple licensed Psychologists who are currently accepting new patients. We are trained as generalists and therefore are able to work with a wide range of presenting concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, women's issues, perinatal issues, self-harm, OCD, sports performance issues and more. We provide individual, couples, and group therapy. Call today to schedule your first appointment!
(865) 344-1989 View (865) 344-1989
Photo of Hannah Wood, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Hannah Wood
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
(865) 830-1309 View (865) 830-1309
Photo of Kathy Paradis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Kathy Paradis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Now Accepting New Clients. Therapy is a collaborative endeavor. I partner with my clients to discover their goals and to identify the barriers that are obstructing their ability to move forward. It is an honor to be trusted by my clients, to hear their stories, and journey with them as they grow and find meaning in their lives. If you are interested in creating more authenticity in your life, it would be a privilege to partner with you.
Now Accepting New Clients. Therapy is a collaborative endeavor. I partner with my clients to discover their goals and to identify the barriers that are obstructing their ability to move forward. It is an honor to be trusted by my clients, to hear their stories, and journey with them as they grow and find meaning in their lives. If you are interested in creating more authenticity in your life, it would be a privilege to partner with you.
(865) 327-2407 View (865) 327-2407
Photo of April Ella, Counselor in Knoxville, TN
April Ella
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Grief counseling, toxic family relationships, narcissistic abuse by family, life transitions, relationship issues, ADHD issues, lack of self-esteem, self-awareness, and boundaries, depression and anxiety, fertility issues, loss of pregnancy, family/relationship trauma, feeling overwhelmed, chronic illness, personal women's issues, aging concerns (health, hair loss, autoimmune, relationship during different stages), sexuality/shame (abuse, emptiness, STD's).
Grief counseling, toxic family relationships, narcissistic abuse by family, life transitions, relationship issues, ADHD issues, lack of self-esteem, self-awareness, and boundaries, depression and anxiety, fertility issues, loss of pregnancy, family/relationship trauma, feeling overwhelmed, chronic illness, personal women's issues, aging concerns (health, hair loss, autoimmune, relationship during different stages), sexuality/shame (abuse, emptiness, STD's).
(865) 351-6215 View (865) 351-6215
Brad Jennings, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Brad has worked win the behavioral healthcare field since 2004. He spent over a decade providing and coordinating co-occurring treatment services for community mental healthcare agency; roles have included crisis clinician, residential and outpatient substance-use treatment provider, group and individual therapist, and program administrator/services coordinator. Though he's worn various hats over the years, Brad feel most at-home when facilitating group and individual therapy, creating and holding a safe space for his clients' journey.
Brad has worked win the behavioral healthcare field since 2004. He spent over a decade providing and coordinating co-occurring treatment services for community mental healthcare agency; roles have included crisis clinician, residential and outpatient substance-use treatment provider, group and individual therapist, and program administrator/services coordinator. Though he's worn various hats over the years, Brad feel most at-home when facilitating group and individual therapy, creating and holding a safe space for his clients' journey.
(865) 351-3884 View (865) 351-3884
Photo of Mona Marie Williams-Hayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Mona Marie Williams-Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Clients who have wounds, especially interpersonal ones, find that they feel heard without judgement when working with me. I don't get embarrassed or surprised and I think clients find I am warm, genuine, open-minded and respectful. My experience is heavily focused on trauma, especially interpersonal; anxiety; and parenting challenges. Talking with people in counseling is a gift people share with me and I am honored when I can be a part of someone's "story." With 20 years of clinical experience, I have had many opportunities to help people navigate changes in their lives. I believe in the importance of connectedness.
Clients who have wounds, especially interpersonal ones, find that they feel heard without judgement when working with me. I don't get embarrassed or surprised and I think clients find I am warm, genuine, open-minded and respectful. My experience is heavily focused on trauma, especially interpersonal; anxiety; and parenting challenges. Talking with people in counseling is a gift people share with me and I am honored when I can be a part of someone's "story." With 20 years of clinical experience, I have had many opportunities to help people navigate changes in their lives. I believe in the importance of connectedness.
(865) 830-6039 View (865) 830-6039
Photo of Josh Cochran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Josh Cochran
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Josh Cochran is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. He has a B.S. in Psychology from Maryville College and an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from University of Tennessee, Knoxville. With a foundation in person-centered, existential, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Josh seeks to help clients with a variety of presenting mental health concerns and life challenges. He believes in the importance of meeting clients where they are and forming a plan of treatment based on each client's individual goals, strengths, and needs.
Josh Cochran is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. He has a B.S. in Psychology from Maryville College and an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from University of Tennessee, Knoxville. With a foundation in person-centered, existential, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Josh seeks to help clients with a variety of presenting mental health concerns and life challenges. He believes in the importance of meeting clients where they are and forming a plan of treatment based on each client's individual goals, strengths, and needs.
(865) 424-2458 View (865) 424-2458
Photo of Matthew Gumb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Matthew Gumb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
Matthew Gumb brings years of experience in his counseling work with adults, children, and adolescents. Working to help individuals and families that suffer with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, anger management, inattentive/impulsive behavior, as well as other issues. His primary theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Existentialism and Person-Centered. Matthew also has trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for assisting individuals with OCD.
Matthew Gumb brings years of experience in his counseling work with adults, children, and adolescents. Working to help individuals and families that suffer with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, anger management, inattentive/impulsive behavior, as well as other issues. His primary theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Existentialism and Person-Centered. Matthew also has trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for assisting individuals with OCD.
(865) 674-4914 x813 View (865) 674-4914 x813
Photo of Sara F Cawood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sara F Cawood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Most people have difficulty navigating major changes at some stage of life. I treat individuals, couples and families with such developmental or adjustment difficulty or general mental health issues such as depression & anxiety. I offer counseling for marital and relationship issues either with the couple or one of the individuals if the other is resistant to couples therapy. Other frequently seen issues include dealing with loss of partner or friend or family member due to death or divorce, and the problems associated with work or school stress.
Most people have difficulty navigating major changes at some stage of life. I treat individuals, couples and families with such developmental or adjustment difficulty or general mental health issues such as depression & anxiety. I offer counseling for marital and relationship issues either with the couple or one of the individuals if the other is resistant to couples therapy. Other frequently seen issues include dealing with loss of partner or friend or family member due to death or divorce, and the problems associated with work or school stress.
(865) 229-1278 View (865) 229-1278
Photo of Sean M Ridge, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sean M Ridge
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37902
Life isn’t always easy - in fact, sometimes it is downright painful, evil, and overwhelming. It is good to have people to lean into during these difficult times. And sometimes, it is good to reach out to a professional to help along the way. I seek to be that type of helper. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression, identity distress or relationship problems, "Big T" trauma or "little t" trauma... whatever your situation - I hope you have hope for a better tomorrow. And if I can walk with you for a time along the way, please let me know.
Life isn’t always easy - in fact, sometimes it is downright painful, evil, and overwhelming. It is good to have people to lean into during these difficult times. And sometimes, it is good to reach out to a professional to help along the way. I seek to be that type of helper. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression, identity distress or relationship problems, "Big T" trauma or "little t" trauma... whatever your situation - I hope you have hope for a better tomorrow. And if I can walk with you for a time along the way, please let me know.
(865) 344-2495 View (865) 344-2495
Photo of Dr. Kristen Heil, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Kristen Heil
Psychologist, PhD, HSP, LP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
As the parent of a struggling child, it is quite possible you spend the majority of your waking moments trying to figure out ways to help them. Let me help you, your child, and your family. I am a licensed psychologist specializing in assessment and treatment of developmental, emotional, and behavioral challenges in young children, adolescents, and young adults.
As the parent of a struggling child, it is quite possible you spend the majority of your waking moments trying to figure out ways to help them. Let me help you, your child, and your family. I am a licensed psychologist specializing in assessment and treatment of developmental, emotional, and behavioral challenges in young children, adolescents, and young adults.
(865) 217-8971 View (865) 217-8971
Photo of Sharon E Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sharon E Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Life can be challenging and overwhelming. We all need someone to listen and guide us from time to time. I specialize in working with couples, individuals and families. I provide a safe, nurturing, non-judgmental environment that will allow the emotional support you need as we work together, through whatever issues you are facing.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming. We all need someone to listen and guide us from time to time. I specialize in working with couples, individuals and families. I provide a safe, nurturing, non-judgmental environment that will allow the emotional support you need as we work together, through whatever issues you are facing.
(865) 285-7455 View (865) 285-7455
Photo of Jaema Hayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jaema Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Please note: You will get a faster response by emailing rather than calling. I work individually with adults to provide empathy, guidance, and support as they navigate through difficult times in life. I have worked with clients suffering from a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationship conflict, parenting problems, unresolved trauma, grief/loss, addictions, LGBT issues, sexual/physical abuse, and more.
Please note: You will get a faster response by emailing rather than calling. I work individually with adults to provide empathy, guidance, and support as they navigate through difficult times in life. I have worked with clients suffering from a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationship conflict, parenting problems, unresolved trauma, grief/loss, addictions, LGBT issues, sexual/physical abuse, and more.
(865) 290-2870 View (865) 290-2870
Photo of Chelsea L Temple, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Chelsea L Temple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
My primary experience is working with adolescents and their families enduring a mental health or behavioral crisis. I enjoy working alongside each individual to assist with relieving symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, LGBTQ affirmation, and intrusive trauma reactions. I want to give you a laid back and judgement free space to process your past and present experiences while you build skills to successfully navigate life’s challenges. I’m a firm believer that every person possesses the strength and ability to reach their own version of success, and I thoroughly enjoy when I am allowed to be part of this process!
My primary experience is working with adolescents and their families enduring a mental health or behavioral crisis. I enjoy working alongside each individual to assist with relieving symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, LGBTQ affirmation, and intrusive trauma reactions. I want to give you a laid back and judgement free space to process your past and present experiences while you build skills to successfully navigate life’s challenges. I’m a firm believer that every person possesses the strength and ability to reach their own version of success, and I thoroughly enjoy when I am allowed to be part of this process!
(865) 535-7254 View (865) 535-7254
Photo of Heather Willard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Heather Willard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37912
Hello! My name is Heather Willard and I am a professional counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and other challenges. I partner with individuals and families to identify goals and develop a process that is complementary to each person’s needs and strengths. I love joining with individuals through counseling so they can be in a stronger place to grow, heal, and move toward wholeness. Therapy can be hard work, but it can also be fun and lead to strength and a deeper sense of joy.
Hello! My name is Heather Willard and I am a professional counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and other challenges. I partner with individuals and families to identify goals and develop a process that is complementary to each person’s needs and strengths. I love joining with individuals through counseling so they can be in a stronger place to grow, heal, and move toward wholeness. Therapy can be hard work, but it can also be fun and lead to strength and a deeper sense of joy.
(865) 674-9596 View (865) 674-9596
Photo of Tara Burgess, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Tara Burgess
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Hello! I am a graduate intern currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Johnson University. I graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2021 with a bachelor’s in Psychology. My desire to help and care for others has made me passionate about the therapeutic relationship and counseling profession. I typically see children ages 4-10, but also see clients ages 10 and older. I focus on phase of life issues, peer relationships, emotional regulation, stress management, and much more.
Hello! I am a graduate intern currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Johnson University. I graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2021 with a bachelor’s in Psychology. My desire to help and care for others has made me passionate about the therapeutic relationship and counseling profession. I typically see children ages 4-10, but also see clients ages 10 and older. I focus on phase of life issues, peer relationships, emotional regulation, stress management, and much more.
View
Photo of Casey Sturm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Casey Sturm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider working at Wildflower Children's Counseling. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Carson Newman University and am board certified. I am experienced in working with both children and adolescents. Through individual therapy, I treat issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relational conflict, foster care, and problematic child behaviors. I offer Christian counseling services upon request of the individual/parent and believe that faith plays a huge role in mental health.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider working at Wildflower Children's Counseling. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Carson Newman University and am board certified. I am experienced in working with both children and adolescents. Through individual therapy, I treat issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relational conflict, foster care, and problematic child behaviors. I offer Christian counseling services upon request of the individual/parent and believe that faith plays a huge role in mental health.
(865) 217-1624 View (865) 217-1624
Photo of Sabrina Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Sabrina Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Welcome to my practice! You inspire me! It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help and I admire that! Sometimes our expected life path shifts and it can feel extremely overwhelming to find our footing and get back on track to living the life we deserve. My blended therapeutic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness can help you do just that. I strongly believe that in order to make meaningful changes in our lives, we have to get to the core beliefs (both about the self and about the world we live in) that are driving our behaviors.
Welcome to my practice! You inspire me! It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help and I admire that! Sometimes our expected life path shifts and it can feel extremely overwhelming to find our footing and get back on track to living the life we deserve. My blended therapeutic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness can help you do just that. I strongly believe that in order to make meaningful changes in our lives, we have to get to the core beliefs (both about the self and about the world we live in) that are driving our behaviors.
(865) 737-2887 View (865) 737-2887
Photo of Kimberly Chasan Shrewsberry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Kimberly Chasan Shrewsberry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Not accepting new clients
Does it feel like you and your spouse are having the same fight over and over again? These recurring disagreements often provide little resolution, leaving us feeling misunderstood and disconnected. This relationship dynamic is not only frustrating, it starts to impact our own individual happiness and health. I assist couples by helping them step back and view their own relationship dynamic in a way that brings about their true voice and intentions in the moments of anger, blame, disconnection and withdrawal. In this way, each partner can begin to hear and experience one another in a way that builds intimacy, connection and hope.
Does it feel like you and your spouse are having the same fight over and over again? These recurring disagreements often provide little resolution, leaving us feeling misunderstood and disconnected. This relationship dynamic is not only frustrating, it starts to impact our own individual happiness and health. I assist couples by helping them step back and view their own relationship dynamic in a way that brings about their true voice and intentions in the moments of anger, blame, disconnection and withdrawal. In this way, each partner can begin to hear and experience one another in a way that builds intimacy, connection and hope.
(865) 351-6099 View (865) 351-6099
Photo of Aaron Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Aaron Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Greetings! My name is Aaron, and I sincerely appreciate your time in exploring my services. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my expertise lies in supporting children, teenagers, adults, and families for over a decade in enhancing their life quality, addressing complex concerns, and transcending traumas that hinder their well-being.
Greetings! My name is Aaron, and I sincerely appreciate your time in exploring my services. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my expertise lies in supporting children, teenagers, adults, and families for over a decade in enhancing their life quality, addressing complex concerns, and transcending traumas that hinder their well-being.
(865) 213-9087 View (865) 213-9087

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
88% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
67% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

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.