Therapists in Knoxville, TN

View neighborhoods in Knoxville
Photo of Kelly Gillette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Kelly Gillette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
It is my belief that every person has the ability to experience healing and personal growth if given the space and tools necessary. My goal is to offer a safe and collaborative environment to support my clients and encourage acceptance on their therapeutic journey. I welcome diversity of all kinds, including all genders, sexual orientations, races, cultures, faiths, abilities, sizes, and lifestyles.
It is my belief that every person has the ability to experience healing and personal growth if given the space and tools necessary. My goal is to offer a safe and collaborative environment to support my clients and encourage acceptance on their therapeutic journey. I welcome diversity of all kinds, including all genders, sexual orientations, races, cultures, faiths, abilities, sizes, and lifestyles.
(865) 509-9772 View (865) 509-9772
Photo of Angela Hill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Angela Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSSW, LMT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Healing begins when we learn to understand ourselves. I help adults, children, adolescents and families shine a compassionate light on their thoughts, feelings, and patterns of relating to find new possibilities beyond the habitual survival strategies that have helped you to defend against stress and trauma. Therapy can give you the tools and awareness to make the changes that you want to make while you learn to experience a greater sense of safety and resilience, recover from difficult experiences, find more acceptance, get your needs met with more clarity, balance connection with boundaries, and live life with greater meaning.
Healing begins when we learn to understand ourselves. I help adults, children, adolescents and families shine a compassionate light on their thoughts, feelings, and patterns of relating to find new possibilities beyond the habitual survival strategies that have helped you to defend against stress and trauma. Therapy can give you the tools and awareness to make the changes that you want to make while you learn to experience a greater sense of safety and resilience, recover from difficult experiences, find more acceptance, get your needs met with more clarity, balance connection with boundaries, and live life with greater meaning.
(865) 672-8363 View (865) 672-8363
Photo of Lindsey Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Lindsey Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Have you ever felt that anxious feeling in your stomach that robs your appetite, hijacks your breathing, and prevents you from stepping out into the world? Maybe you feel hopeless and stuck for any number of reasons or no expressible reason at all. I want you to know you are not alone, and there is hope! The journey of recovery may include resolving guilt, changing behavior, learning to have fun, communicating effectively, and a number of other desirable results. I orient my practice to provide space for my clients to share openly and confidentially about their concerns.
Have you ever felt that anxious feeling in your stomach that robs your appetite, hijacks your breathing, and prevents you from stepping out into the world? Maybe you feel hopeless and stuck for any number of reasons or no expressible reason at all. I want you to know you are not alone, and there is hope! The journey of recovery may include resolving guilt, changing behavior, learning to have fun, communicating effectively, and a number of other desirable results. I orient my practice to provide space for my clients to share openly and confidentially about their concerns.
(865) 658-4162 View (865) 658-4162
Photo of Tara Burgess, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Tara Burgess
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Hello! I am a graduate intern currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Johnson University. I graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2021 with a bachelor’s in Psychology. My desire to help and care for others has made me passionate about the therapeutic relationship and counseling profession. I typically see children ages 4-10, but also see clients ages 10 and older. I focus on phase of life issues, peer relationships, emotional regulation, stress management, and much more.
Hello! I am a graduate intern currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Johnson University. I graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2021 with a bachelor’s in Psychology. My desire to help and care for others has made me passionate about the therapeutic relationship and counseling profession. I typically see children ages 4-10, but also see clients ages 10 and older. I focus on phase of life issues, peer relationships, emotional regulation, stress management, and much more.
View
Photo of Dr. Jaima E. Walton, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Jaima E. Walton
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist, practicing in Knoxville, TN with Knoxville Behavioral & Mental Health Services (schedule more quickly through our clinic website). I am passionate about clinical work and appreciate the opportunity to join with children, families, and adults in therapy to help them overcome current challenges and plan for future success. My areas of interest include working with teens and adults presenting with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also enjoy working with parents of young children (2 to 7 years old) to improve challenging behavioral difficulties.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist, practicing in Knoxville, TN with Knoxville Behavioral & Mental Health Services (schedule more quickly through our clinic website). I am passionate about clinical work and appreciate the opportunity to join with children, families, and adults in therapy to help them overcome current challenges and plan for future success. My areas of interest include working with teens and adults presenting with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also enjoy working with parents of young children (2 to 7 years old) to improve challenging behavioral difficulties.
(865) 269-3149 View (865) 269-3149
Photo of Carrie Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Carrie Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
I am the co-owner of Wellspring Counseling and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 19 years' experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with clients individually, as well as with couples and/or families. I use my own humanity and presence to be supportive and warm while helping direct clients in ways to promote the healing and growth they're seeking. I am also fascinated by the collaboration Christian faith/spirituality with evidence-based psychology, but make it my goal to love people well where they are and am respectful to clients' beliefs and values.
I am the co-owner of Wellspring Counseling and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 19 years' experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with clients individually, as well as with couples and/or families. I use my own humanity and presence to be supportive and warm while helping direct clients in ways to promote the healing and growth they're seeking. I am also fascinated by the collaboration Christian faith/spirituality with evidence-based psychology, but make it my goal to love people well where they are and am respectful to clients' beliefs and values.
(865) 830-1905 x2 View (865) 830-1905 x2
Photo of Dustin Harvey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Dustin Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Dustin has worked with individuals across the lifespan throughout a variety of treatment settings, including in-home, outpatient, and residential treatment settings. While gaining this experience he has developed a passion for helping people find their way in a world that is rapidly changing. Dustin understands that every person takes a unique path through their development and has a variety of factors that are unique to each of their experiences.
Dustin has worked with individuals across the lifespan throughout a variety of treatment settings, including in-home, outpatient, and residential treatment settings. While gaining this experience he has developed a passion for helping people find their way in a world that is rapidly changing. Dustin understands that every person takes a unique path through their development and has a variety of factors that are unique to each of their experiences.
(865) 344-6715 View (865) 344-6715
Photo of Megan Hayes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Megan Hayes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feeling like it will never end? Are you feeling so weighed down by trauma and pain that you are unable to enjoy your daily life? Are you struggling in your relationship and looking for answers? Maybe you’re tired of looking around and seeing others happy and wondering what is wrong with you. Maybe you have a neurodivergent brain, and have no idea how to thrive in the adversity that comes along with it. Maybe you are trying to break the cycle of generational trauma, and looking for support.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feeling like it will never end? Are you feeling so weighed down by trauma and pain that you are unable to enjoy your daily life? Are you struggling in your relationship and looking for answers? Maybe you’re tired of looking around and seeing others happy and wondering what is wrong with you. Maybe you have a neurodivergent brain, and have no idea how to thrive in the adversity that comes along with it. Maybe you are trying to break the cycle of generational trauma, and looking for support.
(865) 424-2201 View (865) 424-2201
Photo of Hanley T. Roach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Hanley T. Roach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I have the schooling and credentialing required to be a good therapist. More importantly I have been married for 37 years and raised three children. I understand how difficult it is to make marriage work. Through supportive friends, involvement in my church community and a life-time of raising a family I have gained wisdom helpful in addressing relationship problems. I have treated people with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, couples struggling to hold their marriage together. When appropriate I integrate a Christian perspective into counseling. I believe that understanding hidden emotions helps couples care for each other. I work at listening and developing solutions.
I have the schooling and credentialing required to be a good therapist. More importantly I have been married for 37 years and raised three children. I understand how difficult it is to make marriage work. Through supportive friends, involvement in my church community and a life-time of raising a family I have gained wisdom helpful in addressing relationship problems. I have treated people with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, couples struggling to hold their marriage together. When appropriate I integrate a Christian perspective into counseling. I believe that understanding hidden emotions helps couples care for each other. I work at listening and developing solutions.
(865) 276-7017 View (865) 276-7017
Photo of Chiara Marrapodi in Knoxville, TN
Chiara Marrapodi
CCHt, HTI, HMI, BSc, MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37920  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck and don’t know how to move forward? Does it feel like you have tried many things but you have made little progress? Do you feel like you are not good enough? Are you looking for connection and have difficulty finding it and feeling it? My goal is to support you to discover a deeper and richer connection to yourself, the life you create and in your relationships. I specialize in reframing and releasing old traumas and patterns to find your authentic self and an aliveness and curiosity about life.
Do you feel stuck and don’t know how to move forward? Does it feel like you have tried many things but you have made little progress? Do you feel like you are not good enough? Are you looking for connection and have difficulty finding it and feeling it? My goal is to support you to discover a deeper and richer connection to yourself, the life you create and in your relationships. I specialize in reframing and releasing old traumas and patterns to find your authentic self and an aliveness and curiosity about life.
(760) 621-7925 View (760) 621-7925
Photo of Becki Livingston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Becki Livingston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual therapy for adults, with current availability for self-pay appointments. I approach therapy from the empowering perspective that we are not in control of what happens to us or around us, but we are responsible for the consequences of how we choose to allow these things to affect us and how we choose to respond. By making different choices, we can feel differently. In any given situation, we are doing the best we can with what we have, and, through therapy, we can build better ways to actively engage in life, instead of merely existing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual therapy for adults, with current availability for self-pay appointments. I approach therapy from the empowering perspective that we are not in control of what happens to us or around us, but we are responsible for the consequences of how we choose to allow these things to affect us and how we choose to respond. By making different choices, we can feel differently. In any given situation, we are doing the best we can with what we have, and, through therapy, we can build better ways to actively engage in life, instead of merely existing.
(865) 205-1577 View (865) 205-1577
Photo of Archway Counseling, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Archway Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Welcome to Knoxville's Premier Center for Counseling & Psychological Services. We have multiple licensed Psychologists who are currently accepting new patients. We are trained as generalists and therefore are able to work with a wide range of presenting concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, women's issues, perinatal issues, self-harm, OCD, sports performance issues and more. We provide individual, couples, and group therapy. Call today to schedule your first appointment!
Welcome to Knoxville's Premier Center for Counseling & Psychological Services. We have multiple licensed Psychologists who are currently accepting new patients. We are trained as generalists and therefore are able to work with a wide range of presenting concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, women's issues, perinatal issues, self-harm, OCD, sports performance issues and more. We provide individual, couples, and group therapy. Call today to schedule your first appointment!
(865) 344-1989 View (865) 344-1989
Photo of Taira Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Taira Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people pleasing humans who want to break the chains of self-doubt and overthinking. Through empowerment and goal-oriented therapy you will explore how your past as impacted your present. Together we will instill hope in order to take back control of your life.
I specialize in working with people pleasing humans who want to break the chains of self-doubt and overthinking. Through empowerment and goal-oriented therapy you will explore how your past as impacted your present. Together we will instill hope in order to take back control of your life.
(423) 380-0403 View (423) 380-0403
Photo of Erinn King, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Erinn King
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
My aim is to support you through whatever roadblocks you may be currently facing and join you in working towards your goals. I typically work with couples, and adult individuals. My own pursuit of authenticity looks like prioritizing deeply felt connection and a life ripe with meaning. I use an attachment based lens of Emotionally Focused Therapy to create a safe space to facilitate change and encourage the process of discovery. To learn more, please visit Healing Hearts Counseling.
My aim is to support you through whatever roadblocks you may be currently facing and join you in working towards your goals. I typically work with couples, and adult individuals. My own pursuit of authenticity looks like prioritizing deeply felt connection and a life ripe with meaning. I use an attachment based lens of Emotionally Focused Therapy to create a safe space to facilitate change and encourage the process of discovery. To learn more, please visit Healing Hearts Counseling.
(865) 328-2294 View (865) 328-2294
Photo of Linn A Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Linn A Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
(865) 234-4215 View (865) 234-4215
Photo of Matthew Gumb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Matthew Gumb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
Matthew Gumb brings years of experience in his counseling work with adults, children, and adolescents. Working to help individuals and families that suffer with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, anger management, inattentive/impulsive behavior, as well as other issues. His primary theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Existentialism and Person-Centered. Matthew also has trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for assisting individuals with OCD.
Matthew Gumb brings years of experience in his counseling work with adults, children, and adolescents. Working to help individuals and families that suffer with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, anger management, inattentive/impulsive behavior, as well as other issues. His primary theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Existentialism and Person-Centered. Matthew also has trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for assisting individuals with OCD.
(865) 674-4914 x813 View (865) 674-4914 x813
Photo of Terina Gillette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Terina Gillette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Are you struggling with stress or anxiety? Are you experiencing conflict in your relationships or marriage? Do you have a child that is struggling with focus, attention, or emotional regulation? Have you experienced grief, loss, or trauma? Are you uncertain about therapy because you are concerned the approach won't match your personal values? Do you wish you could find a therapist/coach that would be creative/unorthodox? I use a holistic and integrative approach to address areas of concern for families and individuals in a safe atmosphere of acceptance.
Are you struggling with stress or anxiety? Are you experiencing conflict in your relationships or marriage? Do you have a child that is struggling with focus, attention, or emotional regulation? Have you experienced grief, loss, or trauma? Are you uncertain about therapy because you are concerned the approach won't match your personal values? Do you wish you could find a therapist/coach that would be creative/unorthodox? I use a holistic and integrative approach to address areas of concern for families and individuals in a safe atmosphere of acceptance.
(865) 205-1074 View (865) 205-1074
Photo of Micah Riley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Micah Riley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I love counseling work with adults, adolescents, children (5 y/o+), and couples. Walking along with those experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, unwanted pornography habits, and spiritual concerns. I believe clients are unique in what they need from therapy. I tailor my work to the individual and integrate different approaches as they are helpful, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment theory, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
I love counseling work with adults, adolescents, children (5 y/o+), and couples. Walking along with those experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, unwanted pornography habits, and spiritual concerns. I believe clients are unique in what they need from therapy. I tailor my work to the individual and integrate different approaches as they are helpful, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment theory, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
(865) 234-3392 x809 View (865) 234-3392 x809
Photo of Kristina L Hall in Knoxville, TN
Kristina L Hall
MS, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Hello, Welcome! I am accepting new clients seeking to cope with anxiety, addiction, and depression. I also offer parenting and family counseling.You or your child may need help processing overwhelming core beliefs that bind you to unhealthy behavior or negative thought patterns. I utilize a CBT based program that allows you to rediscover joy, balance and peace. I believe the most important thing I offer is my experience, strength and hope, my humanness. With over 25 years of experience as a therapist, I can help you work through life’s challenges. You are not alone. Please take the next step and schedule an appointment today.
Hello, Welcome! I am accepting new clients seeking to cope with anxiety, addiction, and depression. I also offer parenting and family counseling.You or your child may need help processing overwhelming core beliefs that bind you to unhealthy behavior or negative thought patterns. I utilize a CBT based program that allows you to rediscover joy, balance and peace. I believe the most important thing I offer is my experience, strength and hope, my humanness. With over 25 years of experience as a therapist, I can help you work through life’s challenges. You are not alone. Please take the next step and schedule an appointment today.
(865) 375-8718 View (865) 375-8718
Photo of Metro Knoxville Social Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Metro Knoxville Social Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37929
I enjoy working with people young and old. I enjoy the one on one as well as family sessions. I love helping people reach their potential, their goals, etc. Be it young or old, youth or elderly. It's also a pleasure to me to get to meet new people and learn who they are.
I enjoy working with people young and old. I enjoy the one on one as well as family sessions. I love helping people reach their potential, their goals, etc. Be it young or old, youth or elderly. It's also a pleasure to me to get to meet new people and learn who they are.
(865) 276-8024 View (865) 276-8024

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
67% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.