Therapists in New York, NY

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Photo of Yuan Zhang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Yuan Zhang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10065  (Online Only)
Starting motherhood is exciting and challenging. Sometimes, you feel joyful and contented. Other times, you don't feel like yourself. You lose your temper for tiny things; you hate your postpartum body and cannot stand to look at yourself in the mirror; you feel guilty when you prioritize your needs and doubt if you can be a good mom. From a psychological view, I think all those thoughts are understandable because your body, career, relationships, and personal identity are all affected by your new role as a mother. Some unresolved psychological issues (such as attachment issues) you carry along can also get triggered under stress.
Starting motherhood is exciting and challenging. Sometimes, you feel joyful and contented. Other times, you don't feel like yourself. You lose your temper for tiny things; you hate your postpartum body and cannot stand to look at yourself in the mirror; you feel guilty when you prioritize your needs and doubt if you can be a good mom. From a psychological view, I think all those thoughts are understandable because your body, career, relationships, and personal identity are all affected by your new role as a mother. Some unresolved psychological issues (such as attachment issues) you carry along can also get triggered under stress.
(347) 505-2641 View (347) 505-2641
Photo of Julie Alcorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Julie Alcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012  (Online Only)
The initial phone call or email to a therapist can sometimes feel like a daunting first step, and I aim to greet you with warmth and compassion. I view therapy as a journey of self discovery and a safe place to explore the relationship you have with yourself and others. I look forward to walking you through the process of getting started and finding a treatment that works best for you. Some of my specialties include the treatment of binge-eating, bulimia, anorexia and other food and weight-related problems, as well as generalized anxiety and depression, difficulty with life transitions, low self esteem and general life stressors.
The initial phone call or email to a therapist can sometimes feel like a daunting first step, and I aim to greet you with warmth and compassion. I view therapy as a journey of self discovery and a safe place to explore the relationship you have with yourself and others. I look forward to walking you through the process of getting started and finding a treatment that works best for you. Some of my specialties include the treatment of binge-eating, bulimia, anorexia and other food and weight-related problems, as well as generalized anxiety and depression, difficulty with life transitions, low self esteem and general life stressors.
(617) 600-6772 View (617) 600-6772
Photo of Rev. Peter Acevedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rev. Peter Acevedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10029  (Online Only)
We are living in challenging times. The degree of uncertainty we face is enough to cause thoughts and feelings that interfere with our daily functioning. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic issues of depression, anxiety, domestic violence, substance abuse, and suicide were already problems many people struggled with. For many, COVID has caused or intensified these conditions and created a need for additional resources. Resources that lead them to thrive and enjoy time with family and friends.
We are living in challenging times. The degree of uncertainty we face is enough to cause thoughts and feelings that interfere with our daily functioning. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic issues of depression, anxiety, domestic violence, substance abuse, and suicide were already problems many people struggled with. For many, COVID has caused or intensified these conditions and created a need for additional resources. Resources that lead them to thrive and enjoy time with family and friends.
(914) 730-5940 View (914) 730-5940
Photo of Patricia Bagnall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Patricia Bagnall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
"A healed you is there inside, waiting to be released from the past and ushered into a healthy reality." - Anonymous. Psychotherapy will provide you with the opportunity to heal emotionally, mentally and spiritually. As a therapist, I provide a supportive and empathic environment where it feels safe to explore the influence of the past on the present and to make changes in the here and now. Together we will understand the psychological and behavioral patterns of relating which are preventing you from moving forward into the life you were meant to live. You will learn to connect with yourself and others in new healthier ways.
"A healed you is there inside, waiting to be released from the past and ushered into a healthy reality." - Anonymous. Psychotherapy will provide you with the opportunity to heal emotionally, mentally and spiritually. As a therapist, I provide a supportive and empathic environment where it feels safe to explore the influence of the past on the present and to make changes in the here and now. Together we will understand the psychological and behavioral patterns of relating which are preventing you from moving forward into the life you were meant to live. You will learn to connect with yourself and others in new healthier ways.
(646) 494-0537 View (646) 494-0537
Photo of Olga Plotkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Olga Plotkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
I believe strongly in the positive effects of therapy at any stage of life. Therapy is an amazing healing experience. It provides the opportunity to discuss, relate and unburdan oneself in a confidential, non-judgmental and relaxed environment. While we can't change difficult situations in the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. Relationship and sex therapy can help you heal and determine what comes next.
I believe strongly in the positive effects of therapy at any stage of life. Therapy is an amazing healing experience. It provides the opportunity to discuss, relate and unburdan oneself in a confidential, non-judgmental and relaxed environment. While we can't change difficult situations in the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. Relationship and sex therapy can help you heal and determine what comes next.
(646) 791-2723 View (646) 791-2723
Photo of Cindy Kasovitz Sichel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Cindy Kasovitz Sichel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, worried about work, life, love and relationships? Do you want to learn new tools to solve chronic problems with your spouse, lover, teenager, boss, or other difficult people in your life? Are you tired of having the same old argument with the people you love most, and looking for new solutions for harmony and comfort in your close relationships?
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, worried about work, life, love and relationships? Do you want to learn new tools to solve chronic problems with your spouse, lover, teenager, boss, or other difficult people in your life? Are you tired of having the same old argument with the people you love most, and looking for new solutions for harmony and comfort in your close relationships?
(646) 490-9944 View (646) 490-9944
Photo of Laurie Skow, Counselor in New York, NY
Laurie Skow
Counselor, LMHC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping individuals, children and families restore, rebuild and transform their lives for the better. After working in a variety of mental health settings, I can say with confidence that you are not alone in your struggles. It is my goal to create an environment of support, acceptance and to provide a place to regain balance and find hope.
I am dedicated to helping individuals, children and families restore, rebuild and transform their lives for the better. After working in a variety of mental health settings, I can say with confidence that you are not alone in your struggles. It is my goal to create an environment of support, acceptance and to provide a place to regain balance and find hope.
(929) 470-2570 View (929) 470-2570
Photo of Gurdaya Sidhu, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Gurdaya Sidhu
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
My approach to therapy is person-centered; meaning that therapy is for you and defined by you. I aim to create a supportive, affirming, and warm therapeutic environment where you feel comfortable to show up authentically as you are. I believe that the best therapeutic work is done when you feel calm, respected, and heard by your therapist. My therapeutic style is eclectic and draws from several evidence-based modalities including Rogerian, Relational and Narrative Therapy. I also incorporate skills from CBT and DBT into my practice.
My approach to therapy is person-centered; meaning that therapy is for you and defined by you. I aim to create a supportive, affirming, and warm therapeutic environment where you feel comfortable to show up authentically as you are. I believe that the best therapeutic work is done when you feel calm, respected, and heard by your therapist. My therapeutic style is eclectic and draws from several evidence-based modalities including Rogerian, Relational and Narrative Therapy. I also incorporate skills from CBT and DBT into my practice.
(929) 262-3958 View (929) 262-3958
Photo of Fredric T Perlman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Fredric T Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, FIPA, FABP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I'm a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with more than 35 years of experience. My goal is to enable my clients to better understand themselves and their hidden emotional conflicts. Self-awareness and self-knowledge are empowering because our deepest desires for love, connectedness, and achievement are typically tangled up in bad feelings - like shame, guilt or anxiety -- that obstruct us from pursuing their fulfillment. These bad feelings are often based on unrealistic ideas, the residues of childhood experience. I work with clients to disentangle their vital wishes from these constraints so that they can live more authentic and creative lives.
I'm a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with more than 35 years of experience. My goal is to enable my clients to better understand themselves and their hidden emotional conflicts. Self-awareness and self-knowledge are empowering because our deepest desires for love, connectedness, and achievement are typically tangled up in bad feelings - like shame, guilt or anxiety -- that obstruct us from pursuing their fulfillment. These bad feelings are often based on unrealistic ideas, the residues of childhood experience. I work with clients to disentangle their vital wishes from these constraints so that they can live more authentic and creative lives.
(646) 430-9314 View (646) 430-9314
Photo of Marc A. Tallent, Psychologist in New York, NY
Marc A. Tallent
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Are you seeking better relationships, greater career success, or relief from emotional distress? I will work with you to overcome the obstacles to living the life you want. Understanding yourself and others in new ways can increase your ability to relate to people authentically and experience love. Reconsidering recurring patterns that once seemed inevitable or uncontrollable can help you eliminate self-defeating behaviors and discover new choices and options. Acquiring the psychological skills to direct your life more effectively can lead to making lasting changes. Developing your emotional intelligence can promote greater resilience, humor, and capacity for pleasure.
Are you seeking better relationships, greater career success, or relief from emotional distress? I will work with you to overcome the obstacles to living the life you want. Understanding yourself and others in new ways can increase your ability to relate to people authentically and experience love. Reconsidering recurring patterns that once seemed inevitable or uncontrollable can help you eliminate self-defeating behaviors and discover new choices and options. Acquiring the psychological skills to direct your life more effectively can lead to making lasting changes. Developing your emotional intelligence can promote greater resilience, humor, and capacity for pleasure.
(646) 351-1790 View (646) 351-1790
Photo of Elizabeth Armstrong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Elizabeth Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
I am an EMDR Trainer and Therapist, Certified Schema Therapist, and Certified Meditation Teacher with 20 years of experience helping clients heal and reclaim their lives. I received my training at Columbia University and The National Institute for The Psychotherapies (NIP). I provide a balance of empathy, gentle confrontation, and EMDR therapy to help my clients cope with painful past experiences, maximize their current potential, and set and achieve future goals..
I am an EMDR Trainer and Therapist, Certified Schema Therapist, and Certified Meditation Teacher with 20 years of experience helping clients heal and reclaim their lives. I received my training at Columbia University and The National Institute for The Psychotherapies (NIP). I provide a balance of empathy, gentle confrontation, and EMDR therapy to help my clients cope with painful past experiences, maximize their current potential, and set and achieve future goals..
(917) 525-2301 View (917) 525-2301
Photo of Alexandra Kagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Alexandra Kagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Not accepting new clients
I received my Master of Social Work from the New York University Silver School of Social Work. While at NYU, I completed my clinical internships at IVDU Boys’ School, a high school for Orthodox Jewish young men with developmental disabilities, and Bleuler Psychotherapy Center, an outpatient mental health clinic for children, adolescents, and adults.
I received my Master of Social Work from the New York University Silver School of Social Work. While at NYU, I completed my clinical internships at IVDU Boys’ School, a high school for Orthodox Jewish young men with developmental disabilities, and Bleuler Psychotherapy Center, an outpatient mental health clinic for children, adolescents, and adults.
(929) 299-2452 View (929) 299-2452
Photo of Lonette Belizaire, Psychologist in New York, NY
Lonette Belizaire
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024  (Online Only)
I work with with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, healthy boundaries, who are challenged with self-doubt and negative thinking, and who tend to worry and overthink. I specialize in mood regulation, mindful awareness, as well as, cross-cultural and and adjustment concerns. I work with diverse populations who represent a broad spectrum of presenting concerns. By increasing your insight, facilitating healthy communication and coping strategies, and strengthening relational skills, I will help you towards reaching your goals. We will work together to identify your goals.
I work with with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, healthy boundaries, who are challenged with self-doubt and negative thinking, and who tend to worry and overthink. I specialize in mood regulation, mindful awareness, as well as, cross-cultural and and adjustment concerns. I work with diverse populations who represent a broad spectrum of presenting concerns. By increasing your insight, facilitating healthy communication and coping strategies, and strengthening relational skills, I will help you towards reaching your goals. We will work together to identify your goals.
(646) 627-7322 View (646) 627-7322
Photo of Jenna Rosenberg Wolfson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jenna Rosenberg Wolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults in outpatient and hospital settings. I incorporate evidence-based strategies such as CBT and DBT as well as relational client-centered frameworks into my practice, where I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults in outpatient and hospital settings. I incorporate evidence-based strategies such as CBT and DBT as well as relational client-centered frameworks into my practice, where I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
(973) 928-7007 View (973) 928-7007
Photo of Anxiety Depression And Childhood Trauma Recovery Anna Kuyumcuoglu, Art Therapist in New York, NY
Anxiety Depression And Childhood Trauma Recovery Anna Kuyumcuoglu
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT , ATR-BC, ACCEP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10005
Transform Your Life Through Therapy. For over 15 years, I've cultivated a safe, judgment-free sanctuary for clients to self-discover and heal. As an attuned, compassionate therapist, I gently guide you through your journey. My integrative approach draws from evidenced-based methodologies like CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, Trauma and Attachment Based Therapies, mindfulness practices, and somatic psychotherapy. By rewiring your story, you'll experience a profound transformation that extends far beyond the therapy room.
Transform Your Life Through Therapy. For over 15 years, I've cultivated a safe, judgment-free sanctuary for clients to self-discover and heal. As an attuned, compassionate therapist, I gently guide you through your journey. My integrative approach draws from evidenced-based methodologies like CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, Trauma and Attachment Based Therapies, mindfulness practices, and somatic psychotherapy. By rewiring your story, you'll experience a profound transformation that extends far beyond the therapy room.
(646) 860-0624 View (646) 860-0624
Photo of Emily Lippman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Emily Lippman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! Therapy provides a non-judgemental space for authentic collaboration and growth. My work focuses on developing an empathic, trusting therapeutic relationship, which can be a profound source of solidarity and self-discovery. Together, we work to understand what brought you to therapy, who you want to be, and the life you want. As you weave insight, resilience, and joy into your life, we may notice certain patterns, untie old knots, and create new textures.
Welcome! Therapy provides a non-judgemental space for authentic collaboration and growth. My work focuses on developing an empathic, trusting therapeutic relationship, which can be a profound source of solidarity and self-discovery. Together, we work to understand what brought you to therapy, who you want to be, and the life you want. As you weave insight, resilience, and joy into your life, we may notice certain patterns, untie old knots, and create new textures.
(347) 727-0293 x715 View (347) 727-0293 x715
Photo of Counseling with Love with Vanessa Love, Licensed Professional Counselor in New York, NY
Counseling with Love with Vanessa Love
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, ATR, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Waitlist for new clients
What if at the end of your therapy session, you felt good, you felt empowered, and felt that you had a sense of direction? Counseling helps in various ways to work through the unspeakable events or emotions in a person's life. Clients are encouraged to create tangible goals for themselves to work on between sessions, which helps to create coping skills and continuity of healing/treatment outside of their sessions.
What if at the end of your therapy session, you felt good, you felt empowered, and felt that you had a sense of direction? Counseling helps in various ways to work through the unspeakable events or emotions in a person's life. Clients are encouraged to create tangible goals for themselves to work on between sessions, which helps to create coping skills and continuity of healing/treatment outside of their sessions.
(914) 350-6936 View (914) 350-6936
Photo of Kel Maisenbacher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Kel Maisenbacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Taking the first step to seek therapy can be scary, but the fact that you are taking that first step shows courage and strength. I will collaborate with you to increase the strengths you already have, build new coping techniques and improve your self-esteem. I work in a thoughtful and non-judgmental way. My aim is to give clients the tools necessary to build their inner strength and resilience.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Taking the first step to seek therapy can be scary, but the fact that you are taking that first step shows courage and strength. I will collaborate with you to increase the strengths you already have, build new coping techniques and improve your self-esteem. I work in a thoughtful and non-judgmental way. My aim is to give clients the tools necessary to build their inner strength and resilience.
(347) 830-7170 View (347) 830-7170
Photo of Samantha Fredericks, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Samantha Fredericks
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10028
No matter where you’re coming from, my goal will be to help you get to a place where you feel happy and healthy living your truth. I have a strong interest in helping those suffering from disordered eating. I believe that full recovery is not just possible, but is something we all have the power to achieve. We are more than the sum of the messages we’ve received from others and the beliefs we’ve built up about ourselves. Join me in a journey to move beyond stigma and your own preconceptions to discover contentment and live a life that you might not have dreamed was possible.
No matter where you’re coming from, my goal will be to help you get to a place where you feel happy and healthy living your truth. I have a strong interest in helping those suffering from disordered eating. I believe that full recovery is not just possible, but is something we all have the power to achieve. We are more than the sum of the messages we’ve received from others and the beliefs we’ve built up about ourselves. Join me in a journey to move beyond stigma and your own preconceptions to discover contentment and live a life that you might not have dreamed was possible.
(929) 254-3651 View (929) 254-3651
Photo of Wendy Belice, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Wendy Belice
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025
Hello, I'm Wendy Belice, committed to guiding you towards mental and emotional well-being. With a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling, I offer more than therapy; I'm your partner in personal growth Customized Therapeutic Approach: My practice values your individuality. Whether facing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, or relationship challenges, I use a blend of CBT, ACT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing for a unique therapy experience. A Respectful and Understanding Environment: In our sessions, you're a valued individual, where every voice is heard.
Hello, I'm Wendy Belice, committed to guiding you towards mental and emotional well-being. With a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling, I offer more than therapy; I'm your partner in personal growth Customized Therapeutic Approach: My practice values your individuality. Whether facing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, or relationship challenges, I use a blend of CBT, ACT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing for a unique therapy experience. A Respectful and Understanding Environment: In our sessions, you're a valued individual, where every voice is heard.
(914) 350-6742 View (914) 350-6742

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

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.