Therapists in Pleasantville, NY

Photo of Justine Gervacio, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Justine Gervacio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Whether it is your first time looking for support or if this is a part of a longer process, I would like to meet you where that is. I work with individuals from childhood through adulthood who are seeking support for various reasons such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, personal identity, stress, and relationships. With your goals in mind, I draw from a variety of evidence based therapies such as psychodynamic and play, as well as cognitive and dialectical behavioral. I have expertise in grief and loss, caregiving, physical health related problems, and cultural identity.
Whether it is your first time looking for support or if this is a part of a longer process, I would like to meet you where that is. I work with individuals from childhood through adulthood who are seeking support for various reasons such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, personal identity, stress, and relationships. With your goals in mind, I draw from a variety of evidence based therapies such as psychodynamic and play, as well as cognitive and dialectical behavioral. I have expertise in grief and loss, caregiving, physical health related problems, and cultural identity.
(914) 477-2643 View (914) 477-2643
Photo of Lara Sonia Fastman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Lara Sonia Fastman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
We all need help sometimes. You might be a mother struggling with postpartum depression, juggling the stress of kids and work, or coming to grips with an empty nest. You might be a student dealing with the pressures of high school or college, facing the demands of maintaining your grades and social life at the same time. Or maybe you’re someone battling the damage of addiction, staring at the loss of your friends, your job and even your own identity. Whatever the story, life can challenge us all.
We all need help sometimes. You might be a mother struggling with postpartum depression, juggling the stress of kids and work, or coming to grips with an empty nest. You might be a student dealing with the pressures of high school or college, facing the demands of maintaining your grades and social life at the same time. Or maybe you’re someone battling the damage of addiction, staring at the loss of your friends, your job and even your own identity. Whatever the story, life can challenge us all.
(914) 265-2242 View (914) 265-2242
Photo of Jacqueline C Cherry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Jacqueline C Cherry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570  (Online Only)
I am a dynamic and interactive therapist who utilizes DBT/CBT training. This model of treatment supports people understanding their thoughts and behavior patterns that may be unhelpful in being their best selves. Who are you “being”? How can we expand your tool box of skills to support improved functioning in your familial relationships, partnerships, at school/work and your community?
I am a dynamic and interactive therapist who utilizes DBT/CBT training. This model of treatment supports people understanding their thoughts and behavior patterns that may be unhelpful in being their best selves. Who are you “being”? How can we expand your tool box of skills to support improved functioning in your familial relationships, partnerships, at school/work and your community?
(914) 402-9233 View (914) 402-9233
Photo of Michaela D'Urso in Pleasantville, NY
Michaela D'Urso
MS
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
View
Photo of Carolyn S. Lanfredi, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Carolyn S. Lanfredi
Psychologist, PhD, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
It's hard to be a kid these days! There are so many challenges that our children face, from anxiety and depression to school pressure and the effects of social media. Young people are resilient, but they need support and the skills to manage and cope with the adversity they encounter.
It's hard to be a kid these days! There are so many challenges that our children face, from anxiety and depression to school pressure and the effects of social media. Young people are resilient, but they need support and the skills to manage and cope with the adversity they encounter.
(914) 266-9790 View (914) 266-9790
Photo of Deborah A Fatone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Deborah A Fatone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Thanks for stopping by! Life can be so damn tough sometimes. Not having anyone to talk to about your struggles can make it tougher. Being stuck in your own head can feel like a relentless loop of confusion. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. If you are looking for a therapist you have taken the first step to try to make your life better. Good for you! Are you struggling with pandemic fatigue, anxiety/panic that is limiting the things you want to enjoy in life, depression? Are you sober curious but not sure if your drinking or recreational drug use is problematic? Together maybe we can sort some of this out.
Thanks for stopping by! Life can be so damn tough sometimes. Not having anyone to talk to about your struggles can make it tougher. Being stuck in your own head can feel like a relentless loop of confusion. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. If you are looking for a therapist you have taken the first step to try to make your life better. Good for you! Are you struggling with pandemic fatigue, anxiety/panic that is limiting the things you want to enjoy in life, depression? Are you sober curious but not sure if your drinking or recreational drug use is problematic? Together maybe we can sort some of this out.
(914) 290-5591 View (914) 290-5591
Photo of Eleonora Labun, Counselor in Pleasantville, NY
Eleonora Labun
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Do you feel anxious, unable to calm down, sad, or misunderstood? I look forward to meeting you. I work with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, psychological and physical aftermaths of complex trauma. I help individuals who experience significant distress because of the hard relationships with their toxic parents or partner. In fact, the hidden wounds of childhood might provoke our excessive worries, intrusive unpleasant thoughts, mood problems, relational difficulties as well as physical pain. However, even if your intense emotions are rooted in genetics or trauma, that doesn't mean the problem can't be overcome.
Do you feel anxious, unable to calm down, sad, or misunderstood? I look forward to meeting you. I work with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, psychological and physical aftermaths of complex trauma. I help individuals who experience significant distress because of the hard relationships with their toxic parents or partner. In fact, the hidden wounds of childhood might provoke our excessive worries, intrusive unpleasant thoughts, mood problems, relational difficulties as well as physical pain. However, even if your intense emotions are rooted in genetics or trauma, that doesn't mean the problem can't be overcome.
(914) 449-4615 View (914) 449-4615
Photo of Christina Repp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Christina Repp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Hello and welcome. For over 30+ years I have helped tweens, teens and adults negotiate their world. At times people can feel worried, frustrated and overwhelmed about their life, work, and relationships. We all have been there. It takes courage to find the guidance for getting out of a bad spot, feeling less stressed out, and just trying to live a better life. I have helped many people at different stages in life, with different situations. Let me help you and yours reduce negative life stressors, find some relief, and create a life worth living.
Hello and welcome. For over 30+ years I have helped tweens, teens and adults negotiate their world. At times people can feel worried, frustrated and overwhelmed about their life, work, and relationships. We all have been there. It takes courage to find the guidance for getting out of a bad spot, feeling less stressed out, and just trying to live a better life. I have helped many people at different stages in life, with different situations. Let me help you and yours reduce negative life stressors, find some relief, and create a life worth living.
(914) 984-4530 View (914) 984-4530
Photo of Phyllis Kosminsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Phyllis Kosminsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I have been working with people faced with significant loss for the past thirty years. People often ask me if this work is depressing - I always say that the stories I hear are not only stories of loss - they are love stories. We grieve becaue we love. Sometimes that love is complicated, and so the grief is complicated. Sometimes the loss changes us in ways that we feel are unbearable and unsustainable. My work is about helping you move from a state of deep pain and preoccupation with loss to a place where you can reengage with life.
I have been working with people faced with significant loss for the past thirty years. People often ask me if this work is depressing - I always say that the stories I hear are not only stories of loss - they are love stories. We grieve becaue we love. Sometimes that love is complicated, and so the grief is complicated. Sometimes the loss changes us in ways that we feel are unbearable and unsustainable. My work is about helping you move from a state of deep pain and preoccupation with loss to a place where you can reengage with life.
(914) 595-2846 View (914) 595-2846
Photo of Megan Kordenbrock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Megan Kordenbrock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I understand healing to be a process, a continuous evolution. And at the core of it is the practice of expanding the capacity to feel whatever you are feeling, safely. For so many of us, the ability to feel our feelings and the related sensations in our body is lost or gets taken from us as we are faced with overwhelming life experiences. When this happens we might disconnect, or find other ways of coping that allow us to move forward the best we can.
I understand healing to be a process, a continuous evolution. And at the core of it is the practice of expanding the capacity to feel whatever you are feeling, safely. For so many of us, the ability to feel our feelings and the related sensations in our body is lost or gets taken from us as we are faced with overwhelming life experiences. When this happens we might disconnect, or find other ways of coping that allow us to move forward the best we can.
(914) 344-6730 View (914) 344-6730
Photo of Susan Rudnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Susan Rudnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Hello, whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you are looking for a fresh perspective, it is important to find the right fit. I bring thirty years of experience, listening, and thinking to help us build a relationship of mutual trust. Sometimes when you really feel heard, you begin to hear yourself differently, and surprising new directions emerge. If appropriate I may use Focusing, as developed by Eugene Gendlin, to help you find next steps, when you gently bring your awareness into your "body knowing" of a situation. Depression and anxiety may then lessen.
Hello, whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you are looking for a fresh perspective, it is important to find the right fit. I bring thirty years of experience, listening, and thinking to help us build a relationship of mutual trust. Sometimes when you really feel heard, you begin to hear yourself differently, and surprising new directions emerge. If appropriate I may use Focusing, as developed by Eugene Gendlin, to help you find next steps, when you gently bring your awareness into your "body knowing" of a situation. Depression and anxiety may then lessen.
(917) 655-4752 View (917) 655-4752
Photo of Mallory Winter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Mallory Winter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
My goal is to help clients better understand how their life histories and relationships impact the present-day though open dialogue, reflection, and engagement. My aim is to support individuals in finding their voice, building confidence in personal and professional relationships, and coping with stressors. I believe that everyone can benefit from devoting time each week to focus on themselves and their relationships, and I prioritize creating a warm, supportive environment for my clients.
My goal is to help clients better understand how their life histories and relationships impact the present-day though open dialogue, reflection, and engagement. My aim is to support individuals in finding their voice, building confidence in personal and professional relationships, and coping with stressors. I believe that everyone can benefit from devoting time each week to focus on themselves and their relationships, and I prioritize creating a warm, supportive environment for my clients.
(914) 344-6401 View (914) 344-6401
Photo of Pilar B Wellansky, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Pilar B Wellansky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am a New York State licensed psychologist who specializes in anxiety, depression & mood disorders, stress management, and relationship issues. Since 2000, my private practice in Pleasantville has been dedicated to helping individuals, families and couples lead fulfilling lives with satisfying relationships. I have a Master's degree in School Psychology and a Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from Yeshiva University. I work with children, adolescents and adults. Although I do not accept any insurance plan directly, I do send out monthly insurance-friendly receipts that can be submitted to your insurance company.
I am a New York State licensed psychologist who specializes in anxiety, depression & mood disorders, stress management, and relationship issues. Since 2000, my private practice in Pleasantville has been dedicated to helping individuals, families and couples lead fulfilling lives with satisfying relationships. I have a Master's degree in School Psychology and a Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) from Yeshiva University. I work with children, adolescents and adults. Although I do not accept any insurance plan directly, I do send out monthly insurance-friendly receipts that can be submitted to your insurance company.
(914) 930-6422 View (914) 930-6422
Photo of Melinda Ferraraccio, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pleasantville, NY
Melinda Ferraraccio
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCAT-lp
Not Verified Not Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt rooted in one spot unable to pull your feet out of the heavy mud and move forward? Maybe you had a recent disappointment? Perhaps you or your child have experienced a tragedy or loss? Or possibly, you have great ideas just waiting to surface! My goal is to create a safe space where you can develop your creative problem solving skills, renew your sense of adventure, and strengthen your sense of self. I believe in the importance of our mind-body connection and the healing nature of self expression and communication through art making.
Have you ever felt rooted in one spot unable to pull your feet out of the heavy mud and move forward? Maybe you had a recent disappointment? Perhaps you or your child have experienced a tragedy or loss? Or possibly, you have great ideas just waiting to surface! My goal is to create a safe space where you can develop your creative problem solving skills, renew your sense of adventure, and strengthen your sense of self. I believe in the importance of our mind-body connection and the healing nature of self expression and communication through art making.
(914) 350-5886 View (914) 350-5886
Photo of Lily Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Lily Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am passionate about helping individuals feel supported and make meaningful changes in their lives. During this time of uncertainty, you may be trying to balance so much, such as work, school, childcare, relationships, and anxieties about the pandemic. Who wouldn’t be overwhelmed? Whatever life challenge you’re struggling with, I am here to listen with patience and empathy. I strive to create a trusting environment in which you feel safe to explore feelings, thoughts, and experiences. I enjoy helping clients set realistic goals, find patterns in their way of thinking or acting, and try new strategies to cope and overcome obstacles.
I am passionate about helping individuals feel supported and make meaningful changes in their lives. During this time of uncertainty, you may be trying to balance so much, such as work, school, childcare, relationships, and anxieties about the pandemic. Who wouldn’t be overwhelmed? Whatever life challenge you’re struggling with, I am here to listen with patience and empathy. I strive to create a trusting environment in which you feel safe to explore feelings, thoughts, and experiences. I enjoy helping clients set realistic goals, find patterns in their way of thinking or acting, and try new strategies to cope and overcome obstacles.
(914) 685-8541 View (914) 685-8541
Photo of Haley Kastner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
View
Photo of Susan Fitzsimmons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Susan Fitzsimmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I’m pleased to be in network with several insurance plans, and have immediate availability through confidential Telehealth. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker who works with people aged 18 and older who experience depression, stress, anxiety, grief, trauma and loss. I have worked in psychiatric settings and rehabilitation centers with clients who were in emotional crisis, and those working on recovery from substance abuse while also treating mental illness.
I’m pleased to be in network with several insurance plans, and have immediate availability through confidential Telehealth. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker who works with people aged 18 and older who experience depression, stress, anxiety, grief, trauma and loss. I have worked in psychiatric settings and rehabilitation centers with clients who were in emotional crisis, and those working on recovery from substance abuse while also treating mental illness.
(914) 745-7039 View (914) 745-7039
Photo of Hayley Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Hayley Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am a couples and family therapist who offers collaborative partnership based in curiosity, respect, and empathy. I believe in empowering, honoring, and celebrating your authentic self. My clients often begin therapy as they need support managing mood symptoms/disorders (anxiety, depression), attention difficulties, gender/sexuality concerns, family dynamics, life transitions and events, marital and premarital conflict, trauma, peer relationships, and school issues. With my guidance we'll explore the intersecting layers of your identity to understand how to make positive, healthy changes that will allow you to achieve your goals!
I am a couples and family therapist who offers collaborative partnership based in curiosity, respect, and empathy. I believe in empowering, honoring, and celebrating your authentic self. My clients often begin therapy as they need support managing mood symptoms/disorders (anxiety, depression), attention difficulties, gender/sexuality concerns, family dynamics, life transitions and events, marital and premarital conflict, trauma, peer relationships, and school issues. With my guidance we'll explore the intersecting layers of your identity to understand how to make positive, healthy changes that will allow you to achieve your goals!
(914) 743-3212 View (914) 743-3212
Photo of Alexis R. Bramswig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Alexis R. Bramswig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570  (Online Only)
Hi there! I have experience working with children and adults ranging in ages 4-62. I have worked with multiple diagnoses including but not limited to; Developmental Disability's, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc. My goal is always to help all of my clients find the best way to better manage the challenges they are experiencing in their lives.
Hi there! I have experience working with children and adults ranging in ages 4-62. I have worked with multiple diagnoses including but not limited to; Developmental Disability's, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc. My goal is always to help all of my clients find the best way to better manage the challenges they are experiencing in their lives.
(914) 297-6349 View (914) 297-6349
Photo of Ahimsa Luciano, Art Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Ahimsa Luciano
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Are you are a young adult in college or grad school, or a new professional role feeling slightly overwhelmed or excited, but facing scenarios that are not what you were expecting? Change is hard, even when it’s exactly what you may have wanted. I work with clients who may be feeling unsatisfied or stuck in their lives. Sometimes we may simply want a safe and objective space that is solely their own for regular check-ins on their lives. I love working with creatives, high achievers, and people just embarking on their adult lives to find connection to themselves and what they hope to accomplish.
Are you are a young adult in college or grad school, or a new professional role feeling slightly overwhelmed or excited, but facing scenarios that are not what you were expecting? Change is hard, even when it’s exactly what you may have wanted. I work with clients who may be feeling unsatisfied or stuck in their lives. Sometimes we may simply want a safe and objective space that is solely their own for regular check-ins on their lives. I love working with creatives, high achievers, and people just embarking on their adult lives to find connection to themselves and what they hope to accomplish.
(914) 380-7068 View (914) 380-7068

See more therapy options for Pleasantville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pleasantville, NY

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Pleasantville, NY who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
90% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
65% Grief
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Pleasantville, NY see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pleasantville?

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.