Therapists in Saint Cloud, MN

Photo of Kevin Hooker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Cloud, MN
Kevin Hooker
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
No one problem or situation is the same. The clients I see or have seen, suffer from a wide range of things from relational problems to anxiety or depression or sleep issues. Addictions such as sex, pornography, the internet, and video games are all prevalent in today's world and I see these clients as well. If you have goals, are driven to improve, and are open and honest, therapy will work well no matter who your therapist is. As long as that is something you want, you can go anywhere, and I'd be happy to go on that journey with you.
No one problem or situation is the same. The clients I see or have seen, suffer from a wide range of things from relational problems to anxiety or depression or sleep issues. Addictions such as sex, pornography, the internet, and video games are all prevalent in today's world and I see these clients as well. If you have goals, are driven to improve, and are open and honest, therapy will work well no matter who your therapist is. As long as that is something you want, you can go anywhere, and I'd be happy to go on that journey with you.
(763) 247-4780 View (763) 247-4780
Photo of Kayla M Ward, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Kayla M Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
It's normal to get stuck, and it's normal to struggle. It's not a good place stay. Are you tired of struggling and ready to start being healthy and happy? Imagine your ideal life: you have insight, you know how to manage daily struggles in a healthy way, you make sound decisions, your relationships are warm, and your thoughts are positive! I will help you realize the solutions you already hold inside. I'll also help you develop skills that will help you be who you most want to be regardless of what life throws your way.
It's normal to get stuck, and it's normal to struggle. It's not a good place stay. Are you tired of struggling and ready to start being healthy and happy? Imagine your ideal life: you have insight, you know how to manage daily struggles in a healthy way, you make sound decisions, your relationships are warm, and your thoughts are positive! I will help you realize the solutions you already hold inside. I'll also help you develop skills that will help you be who you most want to be regardless of what life throws your way.
(320) 227-3284 View (320) 227-3284
Photo of Carrie Gapinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Carrie Gapinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISCW
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Carrie has extensive experience working with children and families in the mental health community. Her experiences have included in-home services, county mental health, as well as school social work. Carrie’s approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative. She utilizes strength-based, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and family-systems models to meet the needs of her clients. Carrie is available to see clients of any age; however, her specialty is working with children and adolescents.
Carrie has extensive experience working with children and families in the mental health community. Her experiences have included in-home services, county mental health, as well as school social work. Carrie’s approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative. She utilizes strength-based, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and family-systems models to meet the needs of her clients. Carrie is available to see clients of any age; however, her specialty is working with children and adolescents.
(320) 364-4008 View (320) 364-4008
Photo of Linda C Scherer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Linda C Scherer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56304
Seeking counseling to find our way through challenges requires courage and strength. I help people cope with loss and trauma and manage life transitions. Sometimes feelings of anxiety and depression arise and show us what needs healing. I want to help you find that connection to your own sense of welbeing so that you can best manage whatever changes come. I have been a licensed therapy provider for 22 years working with adolescents and adults. I offer individual counseling, couples counseling, and an 8 week Mind Body Skills Group which teaches methods of mindfulness, use of imagery, accessing intuition, and self expression.
Seeking counseling to find our way through challenges requires courage and strength. I help people cope with loss and trauma and manage life transitions. Sometimes feelings of anxiety and depression arise and show us what needs healing. I want to help you find that connection to your own sense of welbeing so that you can best manage whatever changes come. I have been a licensed therapy provider for 22 years working with adolescents and adults. I offer individual counseling, couples counseling, and an 8 week Mind Body Skills Group which teaches methods of mindfulness, use of imagery, accessing intuition, and self expression.
(320) 434-2094 View (320) 434-2094
Photo of Kelly Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Kelly Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
Are you having difficulty figuring out how to move on from a difficult or traumatic experience? Maybe you find yourself constantly thinking about it, or maybe the thoughts sneak up on you when you're not expecting them. You might find that it's negatively impacting your ability to function in certain areas of your life, like having difficulty maintaining a romantic relationship, being unsuccessful at work, or feeling physically unwell. Life can feel so heavy and unfulfilling when it seems like everyday you're just surviving. My goal is for therapy to be a place where you learn to thrive!
Are you having difficulty figuring out how to move on from a difficult or traumatic experience? Maybe you find yourself constantly thinking about it, or maybe the thoughts sneak up on you when you're not expecting them. You might find that it's negatively impacting your ability to function in certain areas of your life, like having difficulty maintaining a romantic relationship, being unsuccessful at work, or feeling physically unwell. Life can feel so heavy and unfulfilling when it seems like everyday you're just surviving. My goal is for therapy to be a place where you learn to thrive!
(320) 207-4885 View (320) 207-4885
Photo of Britt Werre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Britt Werre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You're not broken, you're just human. We all experience difficulty throughout our lives, and when life feels hard, it can be so easy to get caught up in thoughts like, "It'll never get better," or to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and discouraged. Before too long, you might realize you're far from the life you'd imagined, or the person you'd hoped to be.
You're not broken, you're just human. We all experience difficulty throughout our lives, and when life feels hard, it can be so easy to get caught up in thoughts like, "It'll never get better," or to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and discouraged. Before too long, you might realize you're far from the life you'd imagined, or the person you'd hoped to be.
(320) 441-0505 View (320) 441-0505
Photo of Pam Walz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Pam Walz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in supporting children and caregivers in understanding and managing behavioral concerns, emotions, trauma experiences, attachment and relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression. Bringing 25 years in the field of early childhood into my work, I approach therapy with a developmental, attachment, and family systems lens, while working to improve the functioning of individuals and family they are part of.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in supporting children and caregivers in understanding and managing behavioral concerns, emotions, trauma experiences, attachment and relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression. Bringing 25 years in the field of early childhood into my work, I approach therapy with a developmental, attachment, and family systems lens, while working to improve the functioning of individuals and family they are part of.
(320) 348-1298 View (320) 348-1298
Photo of Krista Vosberg PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Krista Vosberg PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
I provide individual, couples and family therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing a number of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and marital problems, sexual issues, behavior problems, anger, life transitions, separation and divorce, family conflict, parenting issues, and grief and loss. I worked for 3 years at an inpatient treatment program for high risk adolescents and 15 years at an outpatient mental health clinic before starting my own practice.
I provide individual, couples and family therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing a number of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and marital problems, sexual issues, behavior problems, anger, life transitions, separation and divorce, family conflict, parenting issues, and grief and loss. I worked for 3 years at an inpatient treatment program for high risk adolescents and 15 years at an outpatient mental health clinic before starting my own practice.
(320) 289-5401 View (320) 289-5401
Photo of Anna Bailey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Anna Bailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303  (Online Only)
Teletherapy allows me to work with clients across MN. Therapy shouldn't be awkward or complicated, are you ready to do things differently? Do you know that you have the power to make the changes you want in your life? I'm here to walk alongside you on this journey, while you take the steps towards the life and relationships you WANT. Let's break old cycles, write new stories, and discover what's next. You don’t have to stay stuck where you are today. But only YOU are capable of making that happen. If you’re ready to stop simply asking questions and start discovering answers, reach out today to set up a free consultation.
Teletherapy allows me to work with clients across MN. Therapy shouldn't be awkward or complicated, are you ready to do things differently? Do you know that you have the power to make the changes you want in your life? I'm here to walk alongside you on this journey, while you take the steps towards the life and relationships you WANT. Let's break old cycles, write new stories, and discover what's next. You don’t have to stay stuck where you are today. But only YOU are capable of making that happen. If you’re ready to stop simply asking questions and start discovering answers, reach out today to set up a free consultation.
(320) 853-1579 View (320) 853-1579
Photo of Vincent Miles, Psychologist in Saint Cloud, MN
Vincent Miles
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Not accepting new clients
I'm a clinical psychologist operating a private practice in St. Cloud and serving Central Minnesota. My training is in clinical health psychology and along with helping clients with various mental health needs, I also have a specific interest in helping individuals with medical and health-related conditions. I provide a full range of psychological services, from general counseling and therapy to testing and bariatric surgery evaluations.
I'm a clinical psychologist operating a private practice in St. Cloud and serving Central Minnesota. My training is in clinical health psychology and along with helping clients with various mental health needs, I also have a specific interest in helping individuals with medical and health-related conditions. I provide a full range of psychological services, from general counseling and therapy to testing and bariatric surgery evaluations.
(320) 262-8323 View (320) 262-8323
Photo of Michael Jacob, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Cloud, MN
Michael Jacob
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
Want to be more authentic? As a gay man, I understand how difficult it can be to understand and feel confident in your identity. I bring that lived experience and empathy to my therapeutic work. Gender identity, sex and sexuality, relationships, body image and self-esteem, along with depression and anxiety that tangle with them, are things that I can help you work through. My goal is to help you be more kind to yourself, and to help you find your authentic self so you can live the life you want.
Want to be more authentic? As a gay man, I understand how difficult it can be to understand and feel confident in your identity. I bring that lived experience and empathy to my therapeutic work. Gender identity, sex and sexuality, relationships, body image and self-esteem, along with depression and anxiety that tangle with them, are things that I can help you work through. My goal is to help you be more kind to yourself, and to help you find your authentic self so you can live the life you want.
(320) 207-4955 View (320) 207-4955
Photo of Nicolette Johnson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Saint Cloud, MN
Nicolette Johnson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC, LMAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
Not accepting new clients
I believe therapy is for everyone and that it can address anything; there is no topic off the table! I specialize in trauma, substance use, and sexuality. I am currently pursuing AASECT certification which requires advanced and intensive training as well as supervision. Additionally, I have training and experience to address a number of concerns including but not limited to stress, life transitions, anger, mood, anxiety, thought disorders, relationships, self-esteem, grief/loss, and spirituality. I hold the perspective that you are the expert and know what is right for you. As your therapist I will partner with you where you are at.
I believe therapy is for everyone and that it can address anything; there is no topic off the table! I specialize in trauma, substance use, and sexuality. I am currently pursuing AASECT certification which requires advanced and intensive training as well as supervision. Additionally, I have training and experience to address a number of concerns including but not limited to stress, life transitions, anger, mood, anxiety, thought disorders, relationships, self-esteem, grief/loss, and spirituality. I hold the perspective that you are the expert and know what is right for you. As your therapist I will partner with you where you are at.
(320) 526-1378 View (320) 526-1378
Photo of Sandra Kroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Sandra Kroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
For many clients, my approach results in resolution of their challenges in 3-4 months. I believe you can improve your mental health by tackling your problems head-on and looking at your situation from new angles. Life transitions (divorce, medical challenges, retirement, parenthood, emerging adulthood) are many times highly stressful. I can help you find balance and happiness in these trying times, by examining your choices and values. Clients often tell me, “I’ve never thought about it that way before." I named my practice “Refreshing Perspectives” because that’s what you’ll find when you come to me.
For many clients, my approach results in resolution of their challenges in 3-4 months. I believe you can improve your mental health by tackling your problems head-on and looking at your situation from new angles. Life transitions (divorce, medical challenges, retirement, parenthood, emerging adulthood) are many times highly stressful. I can help you find balance and happiness in these trying times, by examining your choices and values. Clients often tell me, “I’ve never thought about it that way before." I named my practice “Refreshing Perspectives” because that’s what you’ll find when you come to me.
(320) 428-0288 View (320) 428-0288
Photo of Richard Chandler, Counselor in Saint Cloud, MN
Richard Chandler
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56304  (Online Only)
Have you experienced infidelity, loss of trust, low intimacy, low sex or sexless marriage, hurtful arguing, silent treatment, anger, or threats of separation and divorce? I have helped couples improve their communication & intimacy. I seek to bring clarity to your relationship and, if possible, help you renew the attraction & romance that first brought you together. Couple's transformation packages for anger, divorce & infidelity. I specialize in strength-based, online teletherapy for couples & individual counseling. Please text, call, or email for a short phone or online conversation to see if working together is right for you.
Have you experienced infidelity, loss of trust, low intimacy, low sex or sexless marriage, hurtful arguing, silent treatment, anger, or threats of separation and divorce? I have helped couples improve their communication & intimacy. I seek to bring clarity to your relationship and, if possible, help you renew the attraction & romance that first brought you together. Couple's transformation packages for anger, divorce & infidelity. I specialize in strength-based, online teletherapy for couples & individual counseling. Please text, call, or email for a short phone or online conversation to see if working together is right for you.
(320) 358-6455 View (320) 358-6455
Photo of Terri Fedorenko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Terri Fedorenko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
Sometimes life gets hard, and we get lost; it is my desire that no one is alone during those times. Therapy is not a magical healing but rather as Mary Pipher wrote, "Therapy gives clients a safe relationship in which to explore their inner world and to consider taking risks in their external one." I work with couples to enhance their marriages, parents as they raise their children, and individuals to process grief, establish healthy relationships, thinking patterns, and boundaries to overcome anger, anxiety, or depression.
Sometimes life gets hard, and we get lost; it is my desire that no one is alone during those times. Therapy is not a magical healing but rather as Mary Pipher wrote, "Therapy gives clients a safe relationship in which to explore their inner world and to consider taking risks in their external one." I work with couples to enhance their marriages, parents as they raise their children, and individuals to process grief, establish healthy relationships, thinking patterns, and boundaries to overcome anger, anxiety, or depression.
(320) 245-4096 View (320) 245-4096
Photo of Sarah Bengtson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Sarah Bengtson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303  (Online Only)
"Instead of waiting for the storm to pass, learn how to dance in the rain" (author unknown). Time is precious and you deserve to maximize your quality of life. Are you struggling with adjustments in life, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, trauma, anger, relationships, generational issues, or communication? I can help! I look forward to hearing from you so we can start your journey together!
"Instead of waiting for the storm to pass, learn how to dance in the rain" (author unknown). Time is precious and you deserve to maximize your quality of life. Are you struggling with adjustments in life, depression, anxiety, substance use issues, trauma, anger, relationships, generational issues, or communication? I can help! I look forward to hearing from you so we can start your journey together!
(320) 335-7898 View (320) 335-7898
Photo of Heather's Counseling Service, LLC, Counselor in Saint Cloud, MN
Heather's Counseling Service, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
Hello, my name is Heather and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have been providing counseling services for the past 11 years. I have helped many client rebuild their self-esteem, confidence and relationships. I have also helped clients set goals to better their lifestyle, help reduce their depression, and anxiety to have a more positive future.
Hello, my name is Heather and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have been providing counseling services for the past 11 years. I have helped many client rebuild their self-esteem, confidence and relationships. I have also helped clients set goals to better their lifestyle, help reduce their depression, and anxiety to have a more positive future.
(320) 852-5696 View (320) 852-5696
Photo of Pam Beckering, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Saint Cloud, MN
Pam Beckering
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
As the client, you have experienced stress, dysregulation, emotions, and feelings that are challenging, sleep issues, trauma (past or present), major life transitions, or have felt the aftermath of the pandemic in healthcare. As a child, you have experiences that have made you feel unsafe, vulnerable, and dysregulated. You will be heard and validated therapeutically throughout the healing process, along with the space being safe and centered on you. As your therapist, I will provide a supportive environment where you feel understood and empowered to work through your problems and needs at your own pace.
As the client, you have experienced stress, dysregulation, emotions, and feelings that are challenging, sleep issues, trauma (past or present), major life transitions, or have felt the aftermath of the pandemic in healthcare. As a child, you have experiences that have made you feel unsafe, vulnerable, and dysregulated. You will be heard and validated therapeutically throughout the healing process, along with the space being safe and centered on you. As your therapist, I will provide a supportive environment where you feel understood and empowered to work through your problems and needs at your own pace.
(320) 244-2525 x603 View (320) 244-2525 x603
Photo of Anna Clavin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Cloud, MN
Anna Clavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, IECMH-E, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Waitlist for new clients
If this is an emergency please call 911 or 988 Suicide Helpline. I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families by supporting hope and growth through a family systems perspective and trauma informed care. My passion is attachment, relationships, and development and their impact on functioning throughout one’s life. I find encouragement in my work through helping others find hope, strength, and healing within their environment and relationships.
If this is an emergency please call 911 or 988 Suicide Helpline. I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families by supporting hope and growth through a family systems perspective and trauma informed care. My passion is attachment, relationships, and development and their impact on functioning throughout one’s life. I find encouragement in my work through helping others find hope, strength, and healing within their environment and relationships.
(320) 313-1644 View (320) 313-1644
Photo of Karen Hutchins, Counselor in Saint Cloud, MN
Karen Hutchins
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
We all need a helping hand at times, and I have had a passion for helping people for as long as I can remember. You want to feel happier, less anxious, and do more than just “get through each day”. You deserve a safe space to discover who you truly are, and uncover what is keeping you from experiencing more joy, contentment and ease in your life. When we sit down together and discuss all that you’ve been through we will also discover your many inner strengths, and together we can build on the resiliency within you. I want you to see all that you are capable of - all the things that you can do to help yourself be happier.
We all need a helping hand at times, and I have had a passion for helping people for as long as I can remember. You want to feel happier, less anxious, and do more than just “get through each day”. You deserve a safe space to discover who you truly are, and uncover what is keeping you from experiencing more joy, contentment and ease in your life. When we sit down together and discuss all that you’ve been through we will also discover your many inner strengths, and together we can build on the resiliency within you. I want you to see all that you are capable of - all the things that you can do to help yourself be happier.
(320) 337-7315 View (320) 337-7315

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Cloud, MN

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Saint Cloud, MN who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
85% Depression
84% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
78% Coping Skills
76% Stress
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% HealthPartners of MN and WI
74% Medica

How Therapists in Saint Cloud, MN see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
10% Male
7% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Cloud?

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.