Therapists in Palo Alto, CA

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Photo of Farooq Malik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Farooq Malik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I provide therapy for those experiencing a wide range of life challenges including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, trauma recovery, grief and loss, life transitions and relationship concerns. With my background in Technology and corporate work (over a decade) I am very conversant and knowledgeable of that world. I have extensive experience and expertise in working with Anxiety, relationship issues and highly sensitive people.
I provide therapy for those experiencing a wide range of life challenges including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, trauma recovery, grief and loss, life transitions and relationship concerns. With my background in Technology and corporate work (over a decade) I am very conversant and knowledgeable of that world. I have extensive experience and expertise in working with Anxiety, relationship issues and highly sensitive people.
(415) 964-3281 View (415) 964-3281
Photo of Karin Schlanger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Karin Schlanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Lic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
"What is the trouble that brings you in today?" I always start our conversation this way. I begin sessions by focusing on the here and now and filling in the past as needed. I help individuals struggling to create relationships that are fulfilling enough, work with parents, teens, couples and individuals trying to find satisfying relationships, be effective in the workplace or school and channel their behavior productively. You are likely frustrated and have tried a to get results for yourself or a loved one: try something else! .My style is warm, pragmatic and grounded in meeting you where you are hurting most to cultivate change.
"What is the trouble that brings you in today?" I always start our conversation this way. I begin sessions by focusing on the here and now and filling in the past as needed. I help individuals struggling to create relationships that are fulfilling enough, work with parents, teens, couples and individuals trying to find satisfying relationships, be effective in the workplace or school and channel their behavior productively. You are likely frustrated and have tried a to get results for yourself or a loved one: try something else! .My style is warm, pragmatic and grounded in meeting you where you are hurting most to cultivate change.
(650) 334-1591 View (650) 334-1591
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving, but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving, but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(650) 480-3572 View (650) 480-3572
Photo of Susan Che, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Susan Che
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
There are times in our lives when we can benefit from having a therapist to help guide us through various life challenges. I approach my work with individuals by developing a therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively towards their treatment goals. My focus is to help individuals work through their unresolved issues that may be interfering in their present lives, reduce negative emotions, identify and build on their strengths, increase insight/awareness of themselves, and develop positive coping skills they can use to successfully manage life stressors.
There are times in our lives when we can benefit from having a therapist to help guide us through various life challenges. I approach my work with individuals by developing a therapeutic alliance and work collaboratively towards their treatment goals. My focus is to help individuals work through their unresolved issues that may be interfering in their present lives, reduce negative emotions, identify and build on their strengths, increase insight/awareness of themselves, and develop positive coping skills they can use to successfully manage life stressors.
(510) 288-9963 View (510) 288-9963
Photo of Jessica Arneson, Counselor in Palo Alto, CA
Jessica Arneson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who takes a holistic approach to mental health treatment. I find that our experiences impact different parts of our life (i.e., social, mental, physical, spiritual, sexual, etc.), and attention needs to be paid to each area. The first thing we work on, no matter what the problem, is establishing a trusting relationship where you feel comfortable and safe.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who takes a holistic approach to mental health treatment. I find that our experiences impact different parts of our life (i.e., social, mental, physical, spiritual, sexual, etc.), and attention needs to be paid to each area. The first thing we work on, no matter what the problem, is establishing a trusting relationship where you feel comfortable and safe.
(650) 609-3692 View (650) 609-3692
Photo of Lorretta J. Abbott, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Lorretta J. Abbott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Unhappy with your relationships? Challenges at work or school? Feeling like something needs to change? You've come to the right place. Find your inner strength and discover your true potential through therapy. It takes courage to reach out when you need help. Call me for a 15-minute complimentary consultation to determine your options.
Welcome to my practice! Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Unhappy with your relationships? Challenges at work or school? Feeling like something needs to change? You've come to the right place. Find your inner strength and discover your true potential through therapy. It takes courage to reach out when you need help. Call me for a 15-minute complimentary consultation to determine your options.
(650) 399-7388 View (650) 399-7388
Photo of Open Doors Therapy, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Palo Alto, CA
Open Doors Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
I specialize in strengths based and solution-focused approaches, mindfulness and narrative therapy, while utilizing a person-centered approach to meet the needs of each individual and the unique parts of themselves. I recognize every person is different in terms of goals, aspirations, and the pursuit of happiness, and that everyone’s path to peace of mind is different. I strive to help each client realize their strengths, values, and ultimate potential. I particularly appreciate and enjoy when individuals begin to see and express the strengths they often overlook in themselves, and finds it an honor to be witness to their journey.
I specialize in strengths based and solution-focused approaches, mindfulness and narrative therapy, while utilizing a person-centered approach to meet the needs of each individual and the unique parts of themselves. I recognize every person is different in terms of goals, aspirations, and the pursuit of happiness, and that everyone’s path to peace of mind is different. I strive to help each client realize their strengths, values, and ultimate potential. I particularly appreciate and enjoy when individuals begin to see and express the strengths they often overlook in themselves, and finds it an honor to be witness to their journey.
(650) 547-8972 View (650) 547-8972
Photo of Wellmind, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Wellmind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, PsyD, PMHNP-B, MD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
Wellmind helps people like you achieve better health, find happiness and discover their purpose in life. How? Providers on the Wellmind platform work with you holistically—body, mind, and spirit—to achieve whole-person wellness. These therapists, psychiatrists and mindfulness teachers support you in identifying and releasing unhealthy patterns and building pathways towards healing, meaning and, ultimately, joy.
Wellmind helps people like you achieve better health, find happiness and discover their purpose in life. How? Providers on the Wellmind platform work with you holistically—body, mind, and spirit—to achieve whole-person wellness. These therapists, psychiatrists and mindfulness teachers support you in identifying and releasing unhealthy patterns and building pathways towards healing, meaning and, ultimately, joy.
(650) 563-5898 x1 View (650) 563-5898 x1
Photo of Fanshen Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Fanshen Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
My style of therapy is warm, authentic, direct, and down-to-earth. My approach in sessions is to assist clients to connect with the strengths and resilience they may or may not be aware they have and support them to utilize those to make changes in their lives that are consistent with their goals in therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to be sure that therapy feels meaningful and beneficial. I believe strongly that each human has the capacity to heal, no matter how large or small their challenge appears.
My style of therapy is warm, authentic, direct, and down-to-earth. My approach in sessions is to assist clients to connect with the strengths and resilience they may or may not be aware they have and support them to utilize those to make changes in their lives that are consistent with their goals in therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to be sure that therapy feels meaningful and beneficial. I believe strongly that each human has the capacity to heal, no matter how large or small their challenge appears.
(310) 362-2207 View (310) 362-2207
Photo of Margo Roa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Margo Roa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. I hope to walk alongside you through this journey toward healing. There is so much unknown in our daily lives and when we mix in emotions, trials, and stress we can feel derailed. You are not alone. I take a collaborative and empathetic approach with my clients that allows for open, non-judgmental, and safe space to explore feelings.
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. I hope to walk alongside you through this journey toward healing. There is so much unknown in our daily lives and when we mix in emotions, trials, and stress we can feel derailed. You are not alone. I take a collaborative and empathetic approach with my clients that allows for open, non-judgmental, and safe space to explore feelings.
(650) 668-3610 View (650) 668-3610
Photo of Susanne Ebert-Khosla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Susanne Ebert-Khosla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Life experiences shape who we are and influence how we see the world and people around us. Certain experiences can get in the way of us fulfilling our deepest longings, hopes and dreams, and of being the authentic, confident and happy person we always wanted to be. I work with a culturally diverse population of individuals and couples who may be struggling with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, anger, depression, panic, low self-esteem, procrastination, unexplained somatic symptoms, trauma, grief or loss. I am here to help you resolve the challenges that keep you stuck and make your life so miserable.
Life experiences shape who we are and influence how we see the world and people around us. Certain experiences can get in the way of us fulfilling our deepest longings, hopes and dreams, and of being the authentic, confident and happy person we always wanted to be. I work with a culturally diverse population of individuals and couples who may be struggling with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, anger, depression, panic, low self-esteem, procrastination, unexplained somatic symptoms, trauma, grief or loss. I am here to help you resolve the challenges that keep you stuck and make your life so miserable.
(650) 753-6363 View (650) 753-6363
Photo of Dr. Z. Seda Şahin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Dr. Z. Seda Şahin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help can be scary but it's also very courageous. Congratulations on taking the first step. It would be my honor to work with you. In individual, couple, or family sessions, I work with my clients to create inner and outer peace using evidence-based modalities. I believe that the healing journey is about creating awareness of our already existing inner resources and adding more to our resource toolbox so we can live our best life. I often work with clients facing life transitions, conflict, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we discuss how to increase positivity and find confidence in one’s own abilities.
Reaching out for help can be scary but it's also very courageous. Congratulations on taking the first step. It would be my honor to work with you. In individual, couple, or family sessions, I work with my clients to create inner and outer peace using evidence-based modalities. I believe that the healing journey is about creating awareness of our already existing inner resources and adding more to our resource toolbox so we can live our best life. I often work with clients facing life transitions, conflict, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we discuss how to increase positivity and find confidence in one’s own abilities.
(650) 374-0292 View (650) 374-0292
Photo of Judith Wilson, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Judith Wilson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Not accepting new clients
I have been in practice for over twenty five years, working with people of diverse backgrounds and a wide array of issues. I use both Spanish and English in my practice, which generally includes people suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting issues. My practice includes both individual therapy with adults and older adolescents as well as couple's therapy. I am currently seeing patients face to face in my office and remotely in online sessions.
I have been in practice for over twenty five years, working with people of diverse backgrounds and a wide array of issues. I use both Spanish and English in my practice, which generally includes people suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting issues. My practice includes both individual therapy with adults and older adolescents as well as couple's therapy. I am currently seeing patients face to face in my office and remotely in online sessions.
(415) 320-6844 View (415) 320-6844
Photo of Leif Griffin, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Leif Griffin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
My passion is working with those who keenly feel and live with the pain of not being "enough," or of being defective in some way. There's a variety of reasons that people come to suffer in this way, including the impact of childhood experiences, discrimination, and living within systems that encourage disconnection from ourselves and others. My approach is to work collaboratively to bring light and healing to hidden wounds. Far from being "too much to handle," learning to care for these tender parts is the path towards greater freedom, connection, and possibility.
My passion is working with those who keenly feel and live with the pain of not being "enough," or of being defective in some way. There's a variety of reasons that people come to suffer in this way, including the impact of childhood experiences, discrimination, and living within systems that encourage disconnection from ourselves and others. My approach is to work collaboratively to bring light and healing to hidden wounds. Far from being "too much to handle," learning to care for these tender parts is the path towards greater freedom, connection, and possibility.
(510) 616-9564 View (510) 616-9564
Photo of Nina M Poletika, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Nina M Poletika
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Do you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementia and are feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. I specialize in helping caregivers (adult children or spouses) with their complex emotional reactions, ongoing loss & grief, and finding better ways to cope. Having a difficult time when trying to navigate cognitive decline is central to being a helping family member. Professionally, I am experienced and well trained. Personally, I have been on a similar journey with my own mother who had dementia for 10 years.
Do you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementia and are feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. I specialize in helping caregivers (adult children or spouses) with their complex emotional reactions, ongoing loss & grief, and finding better ways to cope. Having a difficult time when trying to navigate cognitive decline is central to being a helping family member. Professionally, I am experienced and well trained. Personally, I have been on a similar journey with my own mother who had dementia for 10 years.
(650) 276-5441 View (650) 276-5441
Photo of Madhur Kulkarni, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Madhur Kulkarni
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to helping you get unstuck and create a more fulfilling life. I will help you to overcome obstacles, build on your unique strengths, and teach you new skills needed for long-term change. My approach integrates a warm, thoughtful, and direct style with well-researched, therapeutic techniques. I have a strong background in treating trauma/posttraumatic stress (e.g., family/community violence, unexpected deaths, war) and substance use/addiction.
I am committed to helping you get unstuck and create a more fulfilling life. I will help you to overcome obstacles, build on your unique strengths, and teach you new skills needed for long-term change. My approach integrates a warm, thoughtful, and direct style with well-researched, therapeutic techniques. I have a strong background in treating trauma/posttraumatic stress (e.g., family/community violence, unexpected deaths, war) and substance use/addiction.
(650) 763-0358 View (650) 763-0358
Photo of Dr. Dorothy Pang, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Dr. Dorothy Pang
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, LSSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life often brings moments of overwhelm, dissatisfaction, and uncertainty, making us feel unsure of how to move forward. You may be frustrated with how you perceive yourself, relate to your body and food, respond to triggers or seemingly unchangeable interpersonal dynamics, or how you cope with stressors. Having a warm, trusted person who is dedicated to provide a safe space to help you heal and grow can make a world of difference. I'm here to help you experience compassion for how you've tried to survive unmet needs, challenge unhelpful thoughts, develop more effective coping tools, and empower you to live aligned with your values.
Life often brings moments of overwhelm, dissatisfaction, and uncertainty, making us feel unsure of how to move forward. You may be frustrated with how you perceive yourself, relate to your body and food, respond to triggers or seemingly unchangeable interpersonal dynamics, or how you cope with stressors. Having a warm, trusted person who is dedicated to provide a safe space to help you heal and grow can make a world of difference. I'm here to help you experience compassion for how you've tried to survive unmet needs, challenge unhelpful thoughts, develop more effective coping tools, and empower you to live aligned with your values.
(628) 348-4425 View (628) 348-4425
Photo of Lisa Shumway, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Lisa Shumway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Everyone deserves to feel like themselves. Sometimes life gets ahead of us and we can feel lost, stuck and/or disconnected. It can be distressing and cause suffering. Maybe it is a major life event or role change, a spiraling negative thought pattern, mounting academic or career pressure, or parenting or relationship challenges. Whatever the reason, it takes courage to seek help and effort to imagine change and improvement. You have taken the first step. Your next steps will be joined by a therapist who will treat you with respect and work diligently to address your presenting problem.
Everyone deserves to feel like themselves. Sometimes life gets ahead of us and we can feel lost, stuck and/or disconnected. It can be distressing and cause suffering. Maybe it is a major life event or role change, a spiraling negative thought pattern, mounting academic or career pressure, or parenting or relationship challenges. Whatever the reason, it takes courage to seek help and effort to imagine change and improvement. You have taken the first step. Your next steps will be joined by a therapist who will treat you with respect and work diligently to address your presenting problem.
(650) 275-5479 View (650) 275-5479
Photo of Richard D Abbey, Psychologist in Palo Alto, CA
Richard D Abbey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306
What do I do if my child can focus on interesting things but takes 3 hours to do 30 minutes of homework? What if my child doesn't seem to be doing as well as I thought they would in school, can something be done? How do I stop feeling so down and blue, or anxious? What if I had a concussion and I am not getting better, but the doctor told me to just rest and do nothing, are there ways for me to improve my condition? Do I have the early signs of dementia? what can be done if I do? My child went to college and failed, is there hope for them to get better? I provide solutions to these questions and more!
What do I do if my child can focus on interesting things but takes 3 hours to do 30 minutes of homework? What if my child doesn't seem to be doing as well as I thought they would in school, can something be done? How do I stop feeling so down and blue, or anxious? What if I had a concussion and I am not getting better, but the doctor told me to just rest and do nothing, are there ways for me to improve my condition? Do I have the early signs of dementia? what can be done if I do? My child went to college and failed, is there hope for them to get better? I provide solutions to these questions and more!
(650) 353-9221 View (650) 353-9221
Photo of Gabriela S Buendia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palo Alto, CA
Gabriela S Buendia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
My focus and goal as a clinician is to create a warm, safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their personal issues and find meaning and purpose in their lives. I specialize in working with young children, parents, couples and individual clients going through significant life transitions. It is in the therapist/client relationship where my clients can begin to explore their issues, challenges and needs and also discover their strengths and internal resources in order to have a better understanding of who they are and reach their goals.
My focus and goal as a clinician is to create a warm, safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their personal issues and find meaning and purpose in their lives. I specialize in working with young children, parents, couples and individual clients going through significant life transitions. It is in the therapist/client relationship where my clients can begin to explore their issues, challenges and needs and also discover their strengths and internal resources in order to have a better understanding of who they are and reach their goals.
(650) 276-4633 View (650) 276-4633

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Palo Alto, CA

900+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Palo Alto, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

58% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth
45% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Palo Alto, CA see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Palo Alto?

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.