Therapists in Exeter, NH

Photo of Donna McDermott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Donna McDermott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Donna McDermott is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker practicing in the seacoast area of New Hampshire. She graduated from The University of New Hampshire with a masters of social work. Donna is known for providing a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for individuals. Donna integrates her professional training with her life experience to help others heal and grow. Her main areas of of focus include depression, anxiety, attachment, divorce and trauma. Donna specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Donna McDermott is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker practicing in the seacoast area of New Hampshire. She graduated from The University of New Hampshire with a masters of social work. Donna is known for providing a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for individuals. Donna integrates her professional training with her life experience to help others heal and grow. Her main areas of of focus include depression, anxiety, attachment, divorce and trauma. Donna specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
(888) 290-2808 View (888) 290-2808
Photo of Allison Miller, Psychologist in Exeter, NH
Allison Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Waitlist for new clients
GROUP & CLASS openings only. No Availability for 1:1 right now. You may feel stuck, repeat patterns that no longer serve you, or feel at a loss regarding how to change. You may have forgotten, or never realized, your purpose. You may be anxious about the future, or the past. In our work together my aim is to help you develop clarity, compassion & curiosity about the true sources of suffering in your life. Through compassionate self-inquiry we explore what gives your life meaning, & what's missing. Integrating insight-oriented therapy, internal family systems, CBT tools, somatic mindfulness, yoga, nutrition, & time in nature.
GROUP & CLASS openings only. No Availability for 1:1 right now. You may feel stuck, repeat patterns that no longer serve you, or feel at a loss regarding how to change. You may have forgotten, or never realized, your purpose. You may be anxious about the future, or the past. In our work together my aim is to help you develop clarity, compassion & curiosity about the true sources of suffering in your life. Through compassionate self-inquiry we explore what gives your life meaning, & what's missing. Integrating insight-oriented therapy, internal family systems, CBT tools, somatic mindfulness, yoga, nutrition, & time in nature.
(351) 200-3466 View (351) 200-3466
Photo of Robyn Powley in Exeter, NH
Robyn Powley
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833  (Online Only)
Does your child's behavior leave you feeling overwhelmed? Behaviors can leave the whole family feeling stressed and disconnected. With over 30 years of experience in special education, working with families in both schools and homes to navigate a wide range of behaviors- from autism and emotional disorders to typical developmental stages and anxiety. I focus on creating supportive environments for your entire family. Using evidenced based strategies focused on positive reinforcement and replacement behaviors help individuals develop the skills they need to succeed.
Does your child's behavior leave you feeling overwhelmed? Behaviors can leave the whole family feeling stressed and disconnected. With over 30 years of experience in special education, working with families in both schools and homes to navigate a wide range of behaviors- from autism and emotional disorders to typical developmental stages and anxiety. I focus on creating supportive environments for your entire family. Using evidenced based strategies focused on positive reinforcement and replacement behaviors help individuals develop the skills they need to succeed.
(855) 908-6277 View (855) 908-6277
Kathryn Forbes-Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I have had the privilege of working in the mental health field for over 35 years, providing individual, group and family therapy for children, adolescents and adults as well as consultation to schools, physicians, legal professionals and family courts.
I have had the privilege of working in the mental health field for over 35 years, providing individual, group and family therapy for children, adolescents and adults as well as consultation to schools, physicians, legal professionals and family courts.
(603) 787-5369 x3 View (603) 787-5369 x3
Photo of Barbara Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Barbara Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
It can be difficult to imagine moving beyond the challenge of depression, anxiety, relationship and work concerns, aging or just feeling stuck. But, in each of us, there is always capacity to heal, to learn, to change and to grow. I strive to provide a setting that is warm, personal, accepting, and optimistic; a place to recognize and build on your unique strengths and capabilities. Drawing on a broad range of personal and professional experiences, my practice and therapeutic approach is pragmatic and solution focused, tailored to your current needs and concerns, always encouraging and supportive.
It can be difficult to imagine moving beyond the challenge of depression, anxiety, relationship and work concerns, aging or just feeling stuck. But, in each of us, there is always capacity to heal, to learn, to change and to grow. I strive to provide a setting that is warm, personal, accepting, and optimistic; a place to recognize and build on your unique strengths and capabilities. Drawing on a broad range of personal and professional experiences, my practice and therapeutic approach is pragmatic and solution focused, tailored to your current needs and concerns, always encouraging and supportive.
(603) 691-1172 View (603) 691-1172
Photo of Lauren Drinker, LCMHC, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Lauren Drinker, LCMHC
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Not accepting new clients
I feel honored and privileged to do this work and assist my clients in meeting their goals. I am experienced working with clients to improve mood, behavior and relationships. My focus is to identify the sources and patterns that stand between my patients and the outcomes they would like to see in their lives. Collaboratively, we develop a plan to overcome challenges and meet personal goals. Together, we can work to identify and overcome the challenges in your life too. See my website for full details. www.laurendrinker.com.
I feel honored and privileged to do this work and assist my clients in meeting their goals. I am experienced working with clients to improve mood, behavior and relationships. My focus is to identify the sources and patterns that stand between my patients and the outcomes they would like to see in their lives. Collaboratively, we develop a plan to overcome challenges and meet personal goals. Together, we can work to identify and overcome the challenges in your life too. See my website for full details. www.laurendrinker.com.
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Photo of Center for Integral Wellness, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Center for Integral Wellness
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, MLADC, MAC
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Wouldn't it be nice to be in the presence of an authentic, genuine person that has the capacity to listen deeply to your unique concerns and facilitate an experience of being understood? -- A person that welcomes you as a unique individual and has the capacity to work with you in a collaborative and creative manner. I am experienced in creating the kind of relationship that allows you to feel comfortable and safe with just being yourself. Grounded with this intention, we co-create the space and trust required for improving the quality of your life and wellness.
Wouldn't it be nice to be in the presence of an authentic, genuine person that has the capacity to listen deeply to your unique concerns and facilitate an experience of being understood? -- A person that welcomes you as a unique individual and has the capacity to work with you in a collaborative and creative manner. I am experienced in creating the kind of relationship that allows you to feel comfortable and safe with just being yourself. Grounded with this intention, we co-create the space and trust required for improving the quality of your life and wellness.
(603) 505-4695 View (603) 505-4695
Photo of Alyssa Hamel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Alyssa Hamel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Not accepting new clients
It is my belief that we are all seeking answers as to why we are here and what our purpose is. The only way to find these answers is to identify our values, strengths, weaknesses and barriers and also address what makes us suffer. I believe in healing and nurturing the very aspects of ourselves that make us unique and believe that through changes and transitions we learn how resilient and powerful we really are . With consistent therapy, we are able to step back, reflect and plan for how to respond and endure challenges that arise in our lives while learning appropriate coping techniques and routines.
It is my belief that we are all seeking answers as to why we are here and what our purpose is. The only way to find these answers is to identify our values, strengths, weaknesses and barriers and also address what makes us suffer. I believe in healing and nurturing the very aspects of ourselves that make us unique and believe that through changes and transitions we learn how resilient and powerful we really are . With consistent therapy, we are able to step back, reflect and plan for how to respond and endure challenges that arise in our lives while learning appropriate coping techniques and routines.
(603) 704-4614 View (603) 704-4614
Photo of Trish Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Trish Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I offer healing, strength based psychotherapy to people who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression. Oftentimes this may be the result of child abuse, bullying, sexual trauma, illness, death, domestic violence , natural disasters or everyday life challenges.
I offer healing, strength based psychotherapy to people who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression. Oftentimes this may be the result of child abuse, bullying, sexual trauma, illness, death, domestic violence , natural disasters or everyday life challenges.
(603) 239-2213 View (603) 239-2213
Photo of Rev. Steve Reddy, Pastoral Counselor in Exeter, NH
Rev. Steve Reddy
Pastoral Counselor, MA, CSD, CGE
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
My spiritual care practice is primarily centered on helping a person seeking spiritual help with life transitions caused by the death of a loved one and also grief around the loss of significant relationships. Sometimes, we can all feel off-center, which causes a distance from our true, authentic selves. Through conversation and reflection, I would like to help you on your journey of recovering your authentic self.
My spiritual care practice is primarily centered on helping a person seeking spiritual help with life transitions caused by the death of a loved one and also grief around the loss of significant relationships. Sometimes, we can all feel off-center, which causes a distance from our true, authentic selves. Through conversation and reflection, I would like to help you on your journey of recovering your authentic self.
(603) 207-3586 View (603) 207-3586
Photo of The Connected Couple, Counselor in Exeter, NH
The Connected Couple
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Is your relationship not where you would like it to be? Are there elements you'd like to see change or major conflicts within the relationship that need to be resolved? Let me help. I offer therapeutic counseling for couples who are struggling to resolve issues of ongoing conflict, challenges in communication and differences in personal development.
Is your relationship not where you would like it to be? Are there elements you'd like to see change or major conflicts within the relationship that need to be resolved? Let me help. I offer therapeutic counseling for couples who are struggling to resolve issues of ongoing conflict, challenges in communication and differences in personal development.
(603) 945-5556 View (603) 945-5556
Photo of Deborah Addario, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Deborah Addario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I work with adopted children and children who are in the foster care system. Treatment focuses on Attachment Theory and addresses trauma, abuse, loss, abandonment, and grief. This is a family centered approach and actively involves the child’s attachment figure(s) in treatment. I work with adolescents who are struggling with peers relationships, conflict with parents, transition issues, anxiety, stress, depression, self worth and self-esteem challenges. I also work with adults who are struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, employment stress, and parenting issues.
I work with adopted children and children who are in the foster care system. Treatment focuses on Attachment Theory and addresses trauma, abuse, loss, abandonment, and grief. This is a family centered approach and actively involves the child’s attachment figure(s) in treatment. I work with adolescents who are struggling with peers relationships, conflict with parents, transition issues, anxiety, stress, depression, self worth and self-esteem challenges. I also work with adults who are struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, employment stress, and parenting issues.
(603) 932-5696 View (603) 932-5696
Photo of Alissa Dillon, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Alissa Dillon
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I am accepting new patients! Now licensed in Vermont for telehealth! I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma & loss, whether it be a person, pet, job, a marriage, etc. All losses have a large impact on our lives. Let me help you cope with your grief, and heal the pain from a trauma. It's time you live the life that you deserve. Fees are $150 per session, 24 hr cancellation required to avoid a $75 fee To set up an appointment with me, please visit www.timetohealme.com and complete the forms. I look forward to working with you! I treat Veterans and First Responders for Free, even if you have insurance.
I am accepting new patients! Now licensed in Vermont for telehealth! I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma & loss, whether it be a person, pet, job, a marriage, etc. All losses have a large impact on our lives. Let me help you cope with your grief, and heal the pain from a trauma. It's time you live the life that you deserve. Fees are $150 per session, 24 hr cancellation required to avoid a $75 fee To set up an appointment with me, please visit www.timetohealme.com and complete the forms. I look forward to working with you! I treat Veterans and First Responders for Free, even if you have insurance.
(978) 857-6549 View (978) 857-6549
Photo of Cristina Rackliffe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Cristina Rackliffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling stuck, lost, or overwhelmed? Experiencing self-doubt, anxiety, or dysregulation? Maybe you notice yourself repeating troublesome patterns in your relationships, or your actions seem out of sync with your desires for your life? My approach honors the mind-body-spirit connection in addressing anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, grief and loss, spiritual growth, life transitions, and women’s issues. I appreciate the innate inner wisdom and unique strengths you bring to each session, believing that your True Self is seeking wholeness and expression.
Are you feeling stuck, lost, or overwhelmed? Experiencing self-doubt, anxiety, or dysregulation? Maybe you notice yourself repeating troublesome patterns in your relationships, or your actions seem out of sync with your desires for your life? My approach honors the mind-body-spirit connection in addressing anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, grief and loss, spiritual growth, life transitions, and women’s issues. I appreciate the innate inner wisdom and unique strengths you bring to each session, believing that your True Self is seeking wholeness and expression.
(603) 803-4368 View (603) 803-4368
Photo of Sue Schick, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Sue Schick
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Navigating our way through life can feel challenging at times! Yet we all have unique strengths that we can build upon. As a seasoned therapist it is an honor to work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, or challenging life transitions. Offering compassionate therapeutic intervention and support, I provide an opportunity for self exploration, goal setting, and celebration of personal growth and achievement. My scope of services is an integrated blend of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy.
Navigating our way through life can feel challenging at times! Yet we all have unique strengths that we can build upon. As a seasoned therapist it is an honor to work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, or challenging life transitions. Offering compassionate therapeutic intervention and support, I provide an opportunity for self exploration, goal setting, and celebration of personal growth and achievement. My scope of services is an integrated blend of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy.
(603) 333-1677 View (603) 333-1677
Photo of Kristen Vogelaar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Exeter, NH
Kristen Vogelaar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACO
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I have experience working with a wide range of clients with a diversity of needs and challenges, but all have had this in common: the human need to be understood, accepted, and known. Psychologist Carl Rogers said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself, just as I am, then I can change.” The people I work with are no more "broken" than others, though it may feel that way and that's a real experience. I work with people who are ready to embark on their own journey and come to know, understand, love and respect themselves and their experiences on the way, and discover the change that can grow out of that.
I have experience working with a wide range of clients with a diversity of needs and challenges, but all have had this in common: the human need to be understood, accepted, and known. Psychologist Carl Rogers said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself, just as I am, then I can change.” The people I work with are no more "broken" than others, though it may feel that way and that's a real experience. I work with people who are ready to embark on their own journey and come to know, understand, love and respect themselves and their experiences on the way, and discover the change that can grow out of that.
(603) 691-2458 View (603) 691-2458
Photo of John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC in Exeter, NH
John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC
BCBA-D, PsyD
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Welcome! My practice offers in-home behavioral consultation and treatment for adolescents. Together, guided by ABA and ACT therapies, we address areas of concern, set goals and develop in-home support to help your child build skills, improve behavior, and gain a sense of well-being. The impact on your child’s social/emotional functioning, self-esteem, and relationships, as well as the family dynamic, is profound. I have 30 years of experience helping adolescents, including 23 years as a school psychologist and behavior specialist in NH schools. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you! John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC.
Welcome! My practice offers in-home behavioral consultation and treatment for adolescents. Together, guided by ABA and ACT therapies, we address areas of concern, set goals and develop in-home support to help your child build skills, improve behavior, and gain a sense of well-being. The impact on your child’s social/emotional functioning, self-esteem, and relationships, as well as the family dynamic, is profound. I have 30 years of experience helping adolescents, including 23 years as a school psychologist and behavior specialist in NH schools. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you! John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC.
(603) 205-2783 View (603) 205-2783
Photo of Nadine Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Nadine Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833
Empowering individuals and families to explore, reframe, and share their narratives. As a LICSW (Smith College SSW) with over 30 years of experience, I help clients overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My approach emphasizes empowerment and storytelling, building healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering communication skills. I enjoy working with adults, particularly those navigating young adulthood, mid-life transitions and couples navigating their relationships and coping with loss and inevitable change. Are you ready to start your new chapter?
Empowering individuals and families to explore, reframe, and share their narratives. As a LICSW (Smith College SSW) with over 30 years of experience, I help clients overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My approach emphasizes empowerment and storytelling, building healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering communication skills. I enjoy working with adults, particularly those navigating young adulthood, mid-life transitions and couples navigating their relationships and coping with loss and inevitable change. Are you ready to start your new chapter?
(603) 810-8605 View (603) 810-8605
Photo of Jody Ransom, Psychologist in Exeter, NH
Jody Ransom
Psychologist, PsyD, PCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833  (Online Only)
Would you like to live your daily life in a way that feels more connected to and aligned with what matters most to you ? Would you prefer to be more accepting of your body and yourself? I offer Coaching and Psychological Services for those who would like to bring the practices of their daily lives into greater congruence with their deeply held values and aspirations, and also for those who would like to cultivate body acceptance and create balance with their eating and movement. I collaborate with clients to clarify their intentions and to create an atmosphere of acceptance and mindful awareness which facilitates positive change.
Would you like to live your daily life in a way that feels more connected to and aligned with what matters most to you ? Would you prefer to be more accepting of your body and yourself? I offer Coaching and Psychological Services for those who would like to bring the practices of their daily lives into greater congruence with their deeply held values and aspirations, and also for those who would like to cultivate body acceptance and create balance with their eating and movement. I collaborate with clients to clarify their intentions and to create an atmosphere of acceptance and mindful awareness which facilitates positive change.
(603) 952-4434 View (603) 952-4434
Photo of Nadine Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Nadine Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Nadine Thompson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 1991. She earned her Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Clinical Practice, from Smith College School of Social Work. She also has post-graduate certification in Addiction counseling, multicultural practice, DBT, and Couples and Family Therapy. Nadine is committed to helping people heal themselves by providing a safe space where they can explore their challenges, restore their mental health, and create the life that they want to live.
Nadine Thompson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 1991. She earned her Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Clinical Practice, from Smith College School of Social Work. She also has post-graduate certification in Addiction counseling, multicultural practice, DBT, and Couples and Family Therapy. Nadine is committed to helping people heal themselves by providing a safe space where they can explore their challenges, restore their mental health, and create the life that they want to live.
(888) 271-3912 View (888) 271-3912

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Exeter, NH

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Exeter, NH who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
82% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
65% Grief
62% Life Transitions
61% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
70% Optum
66% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Exeter, NH see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Exeter?

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.