Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

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Photo of Sherry Merriam, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Sherry Merriam
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
(612) 473-3190 View (612) 473-3190
Photo of Erin Schoenecker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Erin Schoenecker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Not accepting new clients
It takes strength and courage to seek counseling, and I am so happy you found me. Whether or not you decide to contact me, you have already taken a step toward a healthier you. People come to counseling because of their problems - they are not defined by their problems. People I work with are committed to their lives and relationships. As a therapist, my job is to provide a safe and non judgmental space while bringing curiosity and respect for your knowledge and experiences.
It takes strength and courage to seek counseling, and I am so happy you found me. Whether or not you decide to contact me, you have already taken a step toward a healthier you. People come to counseling because of their problems - they are not defined by their problems. People I work with are committed to their lives and relationships. As a therapist, my job is to provide a safe and non judgmental space while bringing curiosity and respect for your knowledge and experiences.
(612) 712-4690 View (612) 712-4690
Photo of Jessica Belter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Jessica Belter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55418  (Online Only)
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide telehealth for each of those states. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you are feeling stuck in your relationships, career, family, or any other aspect of life perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide telehealth for each of those states. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you are feeling stuck in your relationships, career, family, or any other aspect of life perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short.
(612) 260-1593 View (612) 260-1593
Photo of Brenna McGee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Brenna McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401
There is no "one size fits all" in effective therapy. While we may be all facing some common stressors, each person, couple, or family is different and I adapt accordingly to help foster growth and wellness that fits your life. I am committed to creating a genuine and supportive environment to explore your goals, feelings, and stuck points by integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities. Together we will alleviate stress and interpersonal strain, build balance, and promote long-term wellness. Please visit my website at www.brennamcgee.com for additional information and I look forward to meeting you!
There is no "one size fits all" in effective therapy. While we may be all facing some common stressors, each person, couple, or family is different and I adapt accordingly to help foster growth and wellness that fits your life. I am committed to creating a genuine and supportive environment to explore your goals, feelings, and stuck points by integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities. Together we will alleviate stress and interpersonal strain, build balance, and promote long-term wellness. Please visit my website at www.brennamcgee.com for additional information and I look forward to meeting you!
(612) 324-8175 View (612) 324-8175
Photo of Travis Mathias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Travis Mathias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55402
I'm a licensed mental health professional, holding an MSW from the University of Northern Iowa (2017) and dual bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Sociology (2014). My treatment approach prioritizes evidence-based methods that emphasize skill development and practical behavioral solutions.
I'm a licensed mental health professional, holding an MSW from the University of Northern Iowa (2017) and dual bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Sociology (2014). My treatment approach prioritizes evidence-based methods that emphasize skill development and practical behavioral solutions.
(763) 230-0679 View (763) 230-0679
Photo of James Edwin Chadwick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
James Edwin Chadwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
It’s difficult enough to figure out what you want. But saying it out loud to a partner? That can be even scarier. What if we don’t want the same things? Or, worse still, what if I hurt them? Does any of this sound familiar? Many people live in silence to avoid the pain of hurting another. But at some point that backs up on you. Therapy is your place to give voice to those feelings and decide what, if anything, you want to do with them..
It’s difficult enough to figure out what you want. But saying it out loud to a partner? That can be even scarier. What if we don’t want the same things? Or, worse still, what if I hurt them? Does any of this sound familiar? Many people live in silence to avoid the pain of hurting another. But at some point that backs up on you. Therapy is your place to give voice to those feelings and decide what, if anything, you want to do with them..
(612) 448-3159 View (612) 448-3159
Photo of Sharon Elizabeth Burris-Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Sharon Elizabeth Burris-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
My intention is to provide a safe, supportive environment within the therapeutic relationship. My philosophy is strengths-based and holistic: I believe people have the capacity for resilience, creativity and resourcefulness. My role is to help my clients get to that place of knowing this for themselves so they can move forward in their lives and thrive. I am trained in mindfulness-based-stress reduction, and I am a Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach who has worked with a wide range of people on stress release, weight, exercise and nutrition. I am also a Licensed Clinical Independent Social Worker.
My intention is to provide a safe, supportive environment within the therapeutic relationship. My philosophy is strengths-based and holistic: I believe people have the capacity for resilience, creativity and resourcefulness. My role is to help my clients get to that place of knowing this for themselves so they can move forward in their lives and thrive. I am trained in mindfulness-based-stress reduction, and I am a Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach who has worked with a wide range of people on stress release, weight, exercise and nutrition. I am also a Licensed Clinical Independent Social Worker.
(612) 284-6798 View (612) 284-6798
Photo of Lauren Cummins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Lauren Cummins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Are you feeling lost, uncertain about who you are, or your direction in life? Do you find yourself confused about the things you have experienced and the impact they continue to have on you? Are you seeking a new direction, a way to feel better? Here's some good news: you already have the answers. You are the expert on your own life and deep inside, you already know what you need to heal yourself. My role in our therapeutic relationship will be to help you locate those answers and utilize the wisdom already within you. It would be my honor to partner with you on your journey; to assist you in locating your own internal guiding star.
Are you feeling lost, uncertain about who you are, or your direction in life? Do you find yourself confused about the things you have experienced and the impact they continue to have on you? Are you seeking a new direction, a way to feel better? Here's some good news: you already have the answers. You are the expert on your own life and deep inside, you already know what you need to heal yourself. My role in our therapeutic relationship will be to help you locate those answers and utilize the wisdom already within you. It would be my honor to partner with you on your journey; to assist you in locating your own internal guiding star.
(612) 712-3745 View (612) 712-3745
Photo of Chad T. Allen, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Chad T. Allen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55402
I believe the problems we experience in living are woven into the fabric of our lives and rooted in enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating to others. These problems develop in relationship to others over the course of our lives. And it is in relationship—a relationship in which the attentive presence of another is truly and deeply felt—that these problems can be healed. In an atmosphere of curiosity and acceptance, we will work together to deepen your awareness and understanding of your needs, desires, and patterns of relating so you may experience greater freedom and fulfillment in your life.
I believe the problems we experience in living are woven into the fabric of our lives and rooted in enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating to others. These problems develop in relationship to others over the course of our lives. And it is in relationship—a relationship in which the attentive presence of another is truly and deeply felt—that these problems can be healed. In an atmosphere of curiosity and acceptance, we will work together to deepen your awareness and understanding of your needs, desires, and patterns of relating so you may experience greater freedom and fulfillment in your life.
(612) 424-3315 View (612) 424-3315
Photo of Ann Murphy O'Fallon, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Ann Murphy O'Fallon
Psychologist, BSN, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55409
Not accepting new clients
In my lifetime, I have learned the value of letting go of habits that harm me and developing perspectives that open me to love and hope. I enjoy exploring therapy in partnership with people who are going through difficult and challenging times. I believe that by working together lasting change can be realized. My experience has brought me expertise in grief and loss, parenting, aging, anxiety, depression, professional challenges and interpersonal conflicts. I am a good listener, hold much compassion and have a sense of humor about life.
In my lifetime, I have learned the value of letting go of habits that harm me and developing perspectives that open me to love and hope. I enjoy exploring therapy in partnership with people who are going through difficult and challenging times. I believe that by working together lasting change can be realized. My experience has brought me expertise in grief and loss, parenting, aging, anxiety, depression, professional challenges and interpersonal conflicts. I am a good listener, hold much compassion and have a sense of humor about life.
(612) 712-3116 View (612) 712-3116
Photo of Elora D Riggs Lyksett, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Elora D Riggs Lyksett
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Oftentimes people seek out therapy because they are seeking a place to heal, learn and grow; perhaps one or all those reasons fit why you are here today. Reaching out for support can feel daunting, vulnerable, and uncertain. My hope is to create caring and healing spaces for people to learn and grow in. I believe in whole-hearted, non-judgmental and empathic care. I see building trust as an essential component to cultivating a space that is healing; I strive to move at the pace of trust and encourage you to set the pace.
Oftentimes people seek out therapy because they are seeking a place to heal, learn and grow; perhaps one or all those reasons fit why you are here today. Reaching out for support can feel daunting, vulnerable, and uncertain. My hope is to create caring and healing spaces for people to learn and grow in. I believe in whole-hearted, non-judgmental and empathic care. I see building trust as an essential component to cultivating a space that is healing; I strive to move at the pace of trust and encourage you to set the pace.
(952) 260-3142 View (952) 260-3142
Photo of Cara Story Beames, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Cara Story Beames
Psychologist, MA, LP, ABD
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55405
Waitlist for new clients
My work is rooted in a life-long desire to understand more fully who we are and why we are who we are. I work to help clients reflect on patterns of thinking, feeling, behaving, reacting emotionally, struggling with internal conflicts, and using psychological defenses that seem to protect but are often limiting and out of conscious awareness. My training is rooted in Family Systems Theory, Relational Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Experiential Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Attachment Theory, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and Neuroscience. I believe that each person I work with is unique and we have to have a relationship that fosters safety and trust.
My work is rooted in a life-long desire to understand more fully who we are and why we are who we are. I work to help clients reflect on patterns of thinking, feeling, behaving, reacting emotionally, struggling with internal conflicts, and using psychological defenses that seem to protect but are often limiting and out of conscious awareness. My training is rooted in Family Systems Theory, Relational Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Experiential Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Attachment Theory, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and Neuroscience. I believe that each person I work with is unique and we have to have a relationship that fosters safety and trust.
(612) 351-6533 View (612) 351-6533
Photo of Marya Samuelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Marya Samuelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I provide a safe and secure environment where you can feel safe to share deeply personal thoughts and feelings. My psychodynamic process requires both courage and motivation to change. You will move from where you are to where you want to be. Initial concerns may be about self esteem, work or relationships but effective psychodynamic process identifies hidden patterns and themes that cloud the present and hinder the future. Patients describe the process as "empowering" and "life changing", leaving them with increased energy, confidence and creativity for their lives.
I provide a safe and secure environment where you can feel safe to share deeply personal thoughts and feelings. My psychodynamic process requires both courage and motivation to change. You will move from where you are to where you want to be. Initial concerns may be about self esteem, work or relationships but effective psychodynamic process identifies hidden patterns and themes that cloud the present and hinder the future. Patients describe the process as "empowering" and "life changing", leaving them with increased energy, confidence and creativity for their lives.
(612) 509-8267 View (612) 509-8267
Photo of Ginny Aumann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Ginny Aumann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55415  (Online Only)
My therapy style is relational and casual. I like to use humor and aim to be collaborative—if there’s something I can do or learn about to better help you, I want to hear it. Likewise, we all make mistakes, including therapists, so I strive to talk those through with you and help build a stronger therapeutic relationship. I hope to challenge the client/therapist power dynamic, meaning you are the expert on your life and our sessions should be guided by what you want and need. I love working with folks on exploring aspects of their identity and discussing ways oppressive systems show up in our lives.
My therapy style is relational and casual. I like to use humor and aim to be collaborative—if there’s something I can do or learn about to better help you, I want to hear it. Likewise, we all make mistakes, including therapists, so I strive to talk those through with you and help build a stronger therapeutic relationship. I hope to challenge the client/therapist power dynamic, meaning you are the expert on your life and our sessions should be guided by what you want and need. I love working with folks on exploring aspects of their identity and discussing ways oppressive systems show up in our lives.
(612) 999-2702 View (612) 999-2702
Photo of Karen Willette, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Karen Willette
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have 35 years of experience helping a wide variety of people find their way to living a richer and more satisfying life. I have a deep respect for the mind and emotional life and believe it's difficult to change without resolving the internal conflicts (which are often out of our awareness) that lead to emotional distress, unwanted behaviors or physical symptoms.
I have 35 years of experience helping a wide variety of people find their way to living a richer and more satisfying life. I have a deep respect for the mind and emotional life and believe it's difficult to change without resolving the internal conflicts (which are often out of our awareness) that lead to emotional distress, unwanted behaviors or physical symptoms.
(612) 294-8207 View (612) 294-8207
Photo of Nadia Hecker-O'Brien, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Nadia Hecker-O'Brien
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Waitlist for new clients
From an early age we learn ways of being from the people in our lives and from our circumstances. My approach to therapy is to honor where you’ve been, while helping you move toward growth that starts with your present conditions and perspectives. We often feel like silencing what troubles us is less painful– I join with clients to access this part of ourselves gently and with great care. I see the therapeutic relationship as a place to practice new dynamics and change past patterns of behavior that no longer serve us. Essential to my philosophy is that individuals are impacted by larger, systemic forces.
From an early age we learn ways of being from the people in our lives and from our circumstances. My approach to therapy is to honor where you’ve been, while helping you move toward growth that starts with your present conditions and perspectives. We often feel like silencing what troubles us is less painful– I join with clients to access this part of ourselves gently and with great care. I see the therapeutic relationship as a place to practice new dynamics and change past patterns of behavior that no longer serve us. Essential to my philosophy is that individuals are impacted by larger, systemic forces.
(612) 482-8564 View (612) 482-8564
Tasks Unlimited Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Tasks Unlimited Counseling Clinic provides individual and family therapy services for adults and adolescents 16+. Additionally, walk-in services may be available to individuals for up to three sessions. Services are provided both in-person and via telehealth. Therapy is provided by licensed professionals and clinical trainees under supervision. We strive to strengthen our community by creating opportunities for individuals and families to live emotionally healthy and independent lives to achieve personal growth and mental wellness.
Tasks Unlimited Counseling Clinic provides individual and family therapy services for adults and adolescents 16+. Additionally, walk-in services may be available to individuals for up to three sessions. Services are provided both in-person and via telehealth. Therapy is provided by licensed professionals and clinical trainees under supervision. We strive to strengthen our community by creating opportunities for individuals and families to live emotionally healthy and independent lives to achieve personal growth and mental wellness.
(612) 446-0569 View (612) 446-0569
Photo of Christine Lindholm, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Christine Lindholm
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSE, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
I am a psychotherapist and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). I work from a person centered, trauma informed, harm reduction, sex positive based lens. My specialty is working with individuals who struggle with substance use, addiction, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harm and family/relationship concerns.
I am a psychotherapist and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). I work from a person centered, trauma informed, harm reduction, sex positive based lens. My specialty is working with individuals who struggle with substance use, addiction, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harm and family/relationship concerns.
(651) 409-5735 View (651) 409-5735
Photo of Nicole Englund Heffron, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Nicole Englund Heffron
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. Maybe you want to change but don't know where to begin. Perhaps you are unhappy with your relationships. Maybe you feel your past interferes in your life but have felt too scared to "go there." Maybe depression and anxiety are a part of your daily life. I know where to start. My first step is to create a safe place where you can learn to do things differently, where you can flourish instead of just surviving.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. Maybe you want to change but don't know where to begin. Perhaps you are unhappy with your relationships. Maybe you feel your past interferes in your life but have felt too scared to "go there." Maybe depression and anxiety are a part of your daily life. I know where to start. My first step is to create a safe place where you can learn to do things differently, where you can flourish instead of just surviving.
(651) 760-8277 View (651) 760-8277
Photo of Therapy Uprising, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Therapy Uprising
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
Making change and asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’m Jenna (She/Her), and my work focuses on building connection and holding a safe space for clients to feel the full range of their experiences. Finding comfort in the uncomfortable, we can change old patterns that don’t serve us anymore, communicate our needs, and cultivate social justice and joy. I am here to celebrate and support your unique passions, and to learn from you what matters most in your life. I work with clients to build resilience and self-esteem, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and achieve greater self-awareness.
Making change and asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’m Jenna (She/Her), and my work focuses on building connection and holding a safe space for clients to feel the full range of their experiences. Finding comfort in the uncomfortable, we can change old patterns that don’t serve us anymore, communicate our needs, and cultivate social justice and joy. I am here to celebrate and support your unique passions, and to learn from you what matters most in your life. I work with clients to build resilience and self-esteem, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and achieve greater self-awareness.
(612) 999-1473 View (612) 999-1473

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

1,000+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Minneapolis, MN who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% UCare
67% Aetna

How Therapists in Minneapolis, MN see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
21% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Minneapolis?

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.