Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

Photo of Kim Cote, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Kim Cote
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Accepting new In-person and Telehealth Clients at Mending Minds Counseling PLLC in Portsmouth, NH. I am a pre-licensed Clinical Mental Health therapist with several years of experience facilitating growth in adults, children and families seeking support for a variety of mental health issues. My experience is as follows but is not limited too; stress management, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD and Behavioral Disorders. I can assist individuals in identifying their problem(s) and working towards solutions to help live a more fulfilling and manageable life.
Accepting new In-person and Telehealth Clients at Mending Minds Counseling PLLC in Portsmouth, NH. I am a pre-licensed Clinical Mental Health therapist with several years of experience facilitating growth in adults, children and families seeking support for a variety of mental health issues. My experience is as follows but is not limited too; stress management, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD and Behavioral Disorders. I can assist individuals in identifying their problem(s) and working towards solutions to help live a more fulfilling and manageable life.
(833) 358-0469 View (833) 358-0469
Photo of Cheryl Withka, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Cheryl Withka
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist with over twenty years of experience. I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults. I draw from a variety of treatment approaches based on the needs and strengths of each individual including CBT, DBT, social skills training, psychodynamic psychotherapy, play therapy and brief therapeutic interventions. I believe in working collaboratively with clients and helping them identify and utilize their strengths.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist with over twenty years of experience. I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults. I draw from a variety of treatment approaches based on the needs and strengths of each individual including CBT, DBT, social skills training, psychodynamic psychotherapy, play therapy and brief therapeutic interventions. I believe in working collaboratively with clients and helping them identify and utilize their strengths.
(603) 821-0583 View (603) 821-0583
Photo of Emily Woodall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Emily Woodall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
My therapy practice is dedicated to creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore self-discovery and personal growth. I believe that therapy should be tailored to each individual's unique journey, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. My focus is on building a strong therapeutic relationship, ensuring that you feel seen and heard throughout our work together. I integrate techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based frameworks. I have a particular passion for supporting young adults and parents of young adults as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of this life stage.
My therapy practice is dedicated to creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore self-discovery and personal growth. I believe that therapy should be tailored to each individual's unique journey, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. My focus is on building a strong therapeutic relationship, ensuring that you feel seen and heard throughout our work together. I integrate techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based frameworks. I have a particular passion for supporting young adults and parents of young adults as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of this life stage.
(603) 782-0480 View (603) 782-0480
Photo of Eileen Sutherland in Portsmouth, NH
Eileen Sutherland
MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I work with WOMEN seeking support around a variety of issues - self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, work, parenting, and more. My approach is positive, strengths-based, and solution-focused. I firmly believe that in every person and situation, there is hope. When you are ready, I will gently help you move from where you are to where you want to be.
I work with WOMEN seeking support around a variety of issues - self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, work, parenting, and more. My approach is positive, strengths-based, and solution-focused. I firmly believe that in every person and situation, there is hope. When you are ready, I will gently help you move from where you are to where you want to be.
(603) 686-7762 View (603) 686-7762
Photo of Andrea Kelley Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Andrea Kelley Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
If you are here, it’s likely because you are in some state of struggle. Perhaps you are considering therapy for the first time and you are uncertain what to expect. Or maybe you are returning to therapy with a different purpose or goal. In either case, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, stuck or even defeated. However distressing your struggle may be, I suspect there is also a sense of hope… a feeling or wish that things could be better. That hope is part of your innate human drive to get to a better place even when faced with enormous adversity.
If you are here, it’s likely because you are in some state of struggle. Perhaps you are considering therapy for the first time and you are uncertain what to expect. Or maybe you are returning to therapy with a different purpose or goal. In either case, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, stuck or even defeated. However distressing your struggle may be, I suspect there is also a sense of hope… a feeling or wish that things could be better. That hope is part of your innate human drive to get to a better place even when faced with enormous adversity.
(833) 442-4896 View (833) 442-4896
Photo of Wendy Rowe, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Wendy Rowe
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a way for you to express your feelings, struggles, and experiences in a place where you feel safe, comfortable and accepted for who you are. I am client led and offer support and guidance as you process feelings related to issues that are getting in the way of you living a full and balanced life. Through the counseling process, my objective is for you to discover or re-discover your own power and ability to make the changes necessary for greater life satisfaction, balance and happiness.
Therapy is a way for you to express your feelings, struggles, and experiences in a place where you feel safe, comfortable and accepted for who you are. I am client led and offer support and guidance as you process feelings related to issues that are getting in the way of you living a full and balanced life. Through the counseling process, my objective is for you to discover or re-discover your own power and ability to make the changes necessary for greater life satisfaction, balance and happiness.
(603) 580-3055 View (603) 580-3055
Photo of Anita Remig, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Anita Remig
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Psychotherapy supports personal growth and emotional strength; it helps people solve problems and it builds motivation to get life-work done. I meet each person at their unique place on life's journey to discover how they want to grow. I support and promote growth. My specialty is psychotherapy with all adults. I work with people who have depression, bipolar, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, Eating Disorders. I have skills helping those with emotional problems, family conflict and relationship stress. A trusting relationship with a psychologist can help you know yourself better, set goals and create change. No Advantage Plans.
Psychotherapy supports personal growth and emotional strength; it helps people solve problems and it builds motivation to get life-work done. I meet each person at their unique place on life's journey to discover how they want to grow. I support and promote growth. My specialty is psychotherapy with all adults. I work with people who have depression, bipolar, anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, PTSD, Eating Disorders. I have skills helping those with emotional problems, family conflict and relationship stress. A trusting relationship with a psychologist can help you know yourself better, set goals and create change. No Advantage Plans.
(603) 605-1249 View (603) 605-1249
Photo of Meredith Orchard-Blowen, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Meredith Orchard-Blowen
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, MLADC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients at this time. Welcome to my 100 % telehealth practice. I provide psychotherapy and substance use services to individuals, couples and families. I am committed to working with diverse individuals (LGBTQ+), ages 14 and older, tailoring varied therapeutic methods as needed to best support them in creating meaningful change in their lives. I also work with couples; providing space and support to deepen their connection, further their communication skills and enable them to move more successfully through conflict. Additionally, I provide court ordered substance use treatment and evaluations.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Welcome to my 100 % telehealth practice. I provide psychotherapy and substance use services to individuals, couples and families. I am committed to working with diverse individuals (LGBTQ+), ages 14 and older, tailoring varied therapeutic methods as needed to best support them in creating meaningful change in their lives. I also work with couples; providing space and support to deepen their connection, further their communication skills and enable them to move more successfully through conflict. Additionally, I provide court ordered substance use treatment and evaluations.
(603) 678-4304 View (603) 678-4304
Photo of Peg Correia, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Peg Correia
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, MLADC, CCFC, CCDVC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
Offering EMDR therapy in person or online. Ketamine Assisted Therapy in person. I am an EMDR therapist who specializes in working with clients who are struggling with issues such as trauma (sexual abuse, family violence, combat trauma, accidents, natural disasters), attachment and/or addiction. I am an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. I provide groups and individual services for therapists wanting to enhance their EMDR therapy practice both on-line and in person. Other areas of expertise include Substance Use Disorders.
Offering EMDR therapy in person or online. Ketamine Assisted Therapy in person. I am an EMDR therapist who specializes in working with clients who are struggling with issues such as trauma (sexual abuse, family violence, combat trauma, accidents, natural disasters), attachment and/or addiction. I am an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. I provide groups and individual services for therapists wanting to enhance their EMDR therapy practice both on-line and in person. Other areas of expertise include Substance Use Disorders.
(603) 718-3945 View (603) 718-3945
Photo of Adrienne Cress, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Adrienne Cress
Counselor, LCMHC, REAT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Life is not always an easy road to navigate and sometimes we need a guide to help us find our way again. In my work I enjoy helping my clients heal the blocks to the true authentic Self. Our fears, wounds, self-criticisms and identity issues are not who we are, but we must resolve them before we can live the life that is waiting to be ours.
Life is not always an easy road to navigate and sometimes we need a guide to help us find our way again. In my work I enjoy helping my clients heal the blocks to the true authentic Self. Our fears, wounds, self-criticisms and identity issues are not who we are, but we must resolve them before we can live the life that is waiting to be ours.
(603) 787-5179 View (603) 787-5179
Photo of Tara Bianchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Tara Bianchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 18 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, families, and adults in diverse settings. I currently offer therapy services to help you process a variety of challenges; some may be strategies to handle difficult emotions and memories related to trauma, manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or relationship challenges, and guide you in developing strategies to help you feel more grounded and like yourself again.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 18 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, families, and adults in diverse settings. I currently offer therapy services to help you process a variety of challenges; some may be strategies to handle difficult emotions and memories related to trauma, manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or relationship challenges, and guide you in developing strategies to help you feel more grounded and like yourself again.
(855) 835-8660 View (855) 835-8660
Photo of Lisa Lawry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Lisa Lawry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Lisa Lawry is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2004. She graduated from The University of Southern Maine with a BA in Comparative Religion Studies and from the University of New England with a Masters in Social Work (MSW) and a graduate certificate in Addiction Studies. She has provided therapy in many settings including Community Mental Health, Crisis Services, Inpatient Mental Health, and outpatient practice. Lisa believes therapy should be a safe and supportive process inspiring and challenging you to be your true self.
Lisa Lawry is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2004. She graduated from The University of Southern Maine with a BA in Comparative Religion Studies and from the University of New England with a Masters in Social Work (MSW) and a graduate certificate in Addiction Studies. She has provided therapy in many settings including Community Mental Health, Crisis Services, Inpatient Mental Health, and outpatient practice. Lisa believes therapy should be a safe and supportive process inspiring and challenging you to be your true self.
(888) 491-5017 View (888) 491-5017
Photo of Clare Righini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Clare Righini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Everything changes, but the feeling of change. It can be hard to find the way on your own. Everyone can use a little extra support now and then. Especially if you have recently gone through a significant change in your life or you are anticipating one. By successfully working through these changes, you will not only find your way, but you will gain coping skills for future change.
Everything changes, but the feeling of change. It can be hard to find the way on your own. Everyone can use a little extra support now and then. Especially if you have recently gone through a significant change in your life or you are anticipating one. By successfully working through these changes, you will not only find your way, but you will gain coping skills for future change.
(207) 560-0152 View (207) 560-0152
Photo of Rebecca L Richards, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Rebecca L Richards
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Dr. Rebecca L. Richards is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2015. Dr. Richards specializes in adult and geriatric neuropsychology. She completed undergraduate training in psychology at Plymouth State University and went on to earn graduate degrees, a Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), in clinical psychology from Antioch University New England. She completed specialty training in neuropsychology during her clinical internship at Dartmouth Medical School, followed by a two-year postdoctoral residency at the VA Maine Healthcare System.
Dr. Rebecca L. Richards is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2015. Dr. Richards specializes in adult and geriatric neuropsychology. She completed undergraduate training in psychology at Plymouth State University and went on to earn graduate degrees, a Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), in clinical psychology from Antioch University New England. She completed specialty training in neuropsychology during her clinical internship at Dartmouth Medical School, followed by a two-year postdoctoral residency at the VA Maine Healthcare System.
(603) 803-6519 View (603) 803-6519
Photo of Judith Hatch-Orme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Judith Hatch-Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I offer consulting for parents to learn collaborative parenting (married or divorced). With over 37 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents to understand their children's behavior & needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. As parents struggle to meet their children's needs at a time of heightened tension, they need support and guidance. They must navigate a difficult grieving process, while they learn to transform their relationship from marital partners to business partners, sharing the "business" of raising their children together to ensure everyone thrives.
I offer consulting for parents to learn collaborative parenting (married or divorced). With over 37 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents to understand their children's behavior & needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. As parents struggle to meet their children's needs at a time of heightened tension, they need support and guidance. They must navigate a difficult grieving process, while they learn to transform their relationship from marital partners to business partners, sharing the "business" of raising their children together to ensure everyone thrives.
(603) 801-6382 View (603) 801-6382
Photo of Teresa Johnson, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Teresa Johnson
Psychologist, PhD, CST, ABS, BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a path toward more fulfillment personally and in your relationships? Engaging in a rich and meaningful life requires knowing ourselves deeply and acting on intentional choices guided by our core values, feelings, and desires. Our relationships can become more intimate as we develop both clarity about our needs and courage to be vulnerable with those we trust to meet us on this level. I love supporting women in deepening the capacity for presence, emotional intimacy, and pleasure through mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance.
Are you looking for a path toward more fulfillment personally and in your relationships? Engaging in a rich and meaningful life requires knowing ourselves deeply and acting on intentional choices guided by our core values, feelings, and desires. Our relationships can become more intimate as we develop both clarity about our needs and courage to be vulnerable with those we trust to meet us on this level. I love supporting women in deepening the capacity for presence, emotional intimacy, and pleasure through mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance.
(603) 865-1934 View (603) 865-1934
Photo of Julia E Ovalle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Julia E Ovalle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
My view of therapy is an opportunity to engage in a collaborative process by which the therapist and client work together towards enriching lifestyle, and enhancing overall well-being. Additional treatment modalities I draw from include cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques aimed to help reframe and replace negative thought patterns leading to healthier responses in challenging situations. Furthermore, I work from a strengths based perspective that amplifies each individual's unique qualities through the process of self-discovery, healing, acceptance and forgiveness of self and others.
My view of therapy is an opportunity to engage in a collaborative process by which the therapist and client work together towards enriching lifestyle, and enhancing overall well-being. Additional treatment modalities I draw from include cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques aimed to help reframe and replace negative thought patterns leading to healthier responses in challenging situations. Furthermore, I work from a strengths based perspective that amplifies each individual's unique qualities through the process of self-discovery, healing, acceptance and forgiveness of self and others.
(603) 732-9256 View (603) 732-9256
Photo of Charlene Curtis LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Charlene Curtis LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I see clients of all ages with a variety of needs, my current practice is approximately 50/50 with adults and children who are struggling with anxiety, issues of adjustment, general emotional discomfort, and children with behavioral concerns. In my practice with children, I work closely with parents. I work to develop a comfortable rapport focusing on strengths and supports available to your child. I begin the process by meeting with both parents so that I may learn about your child through your eyes and better understand how the concerns are impacting your child.
I see clients of all ages with a variety of needs, my current practice is approximately 50/50 with adults and children who are struggling with anxiety, issues of adjustment, general emotional discomfort, and children with behavioral concerns. In my practice with children, I work closely with parents. I work to develop a comfortable rapport focusing on strengths and supports available to your child. I begin the process by meeting with both parents so that I may learn about your child through your eyes and better understand how the concerns are impacting your child.
(603) 801-8404 View (603) 801-8404
Photo of Alan Nemetz, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Alan Nemetz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
It is a privilege to introduce myself to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire with more than 30 years of clinical experience in private practice, outpatient clinic, and inpatient settings. My clinical interests include mind-body medicine, health psychology, and optimal performance. I would describe myself as compassionate and thoughtful, with a good sense of humor.
It is a privilege to introduce myself to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire with more than 30 years of clinical experience in private practice, outpatient clinic, and inpatient settings. My clinical interests include mind-body medicine, health psychology, and optimal performance. I would describe myself as compassionate and thoughtful, with a good sense of humor.
(603) 502-1217 View (603) 502-1217
Photo of Nicole Bandera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Nicole Bandera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Do you remember the confusion of your teen years and the worries about "growing up"? Stressful, right? Being a teenager and emerging adult can feel overwhelming at times. There is so much to navigate with school, family, friend groups, relationships, peer pressure, social media, identity, work, expectations, life goals...adulting! Sometimes all of this mental clutter can be paralyzing and keep your young person feeling stuck. If you are looking for some extra support, I can help.
Do you remember the confusion of your teen years and the worries about "growing up"? Stressful, right? Being a teenager and emerging adult can feel overwhelming at times. There is so much to navigate with school, family, friend groups, relationships, peer pressure, social media, identity, work, expectations, life goals...adulting! Sometimes all of this mental clutter can be paralyzing and keep your young person feeling stuck. If you are looking for some extra support, I can help.
(978) 768-8330 View (978) 768-8330

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Portsmouth, NH who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
65% Stress
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
58% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Portsmouth, NH see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portsmouth?

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.