Therapists in Springfield, IL

Photo of Maria Isabel Hollo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Maria Isabel Hollo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Maria Hollo is a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor. She has experience doing assessment and counseling with individuals and groups. Maria can help people find the skills needed to improve coping with such as stress management, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss and addictions. Como terapeuta bicultural, entiendo cómo nuestras experiencias y la diferencia de cultura afecta a nuestra vida cotidiana . Haga su consulta telefónica gratuita de 15 minutos hoy, para poder escucharlo y explicarle a proceso terapeutico.
Maria Hollo is a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor. She has experience doing assessment and counseling with individuals and groups. Maria can help people find the skills needed to improve coping with such as stress management, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss and addictions. Como terapeuta bicultural, entiendo cómo nuestras experiencias y la diferencia de cultura afecta a nuestra vida cotidiana . Haga su consulta telefónica gratuita de 15 minutos hoy, para poder escucharlo y explicarle a proceso terapeutico.
(217) 759-1877 View (217) 759-1877
Photo of Kathryn Schultz in Springfield, IL
Kathryn Schultz
LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
I'm Katie. I've been in the counseling field since 2014. I have found that I connect best with children, adolescent and individuals emerging into adulthood. I have experience in working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, relationship concerns and whom would connect with a counselor who utilizes humor and play in sessions. I provide my clients with a space to feel comfortable and supported to help them work toward their goals.
I'm Katie. I've been in the counseling field since 2014. I have found that I connect best with children, adolescent and individuals emerging into adulthood. I have experience in working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, relationship concerns and whom would connect with a counselor who utilizes humor and play in sessions. I provide my clients with a space to feel comfortable and supported to help them work toward their goals.
(802) 466-2684 View (802) 466-2684
Photo of William Acton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
William Acton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
William Acton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. William has always been fascinated by stories. Whether on the big screen, on stage, or on the pages of a novel, he has loved watching the characters progress through challenges and come out changed on the other side. William believes that every person has their own story to tell, and they are in charge of writing the script. His goal as a therapist is to help people comprehend their backstories, but also to empower them to take control of their lives and rewrite their endings.
William Acton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. William has always been fascinated by stories. Whether on the big screen, on stage, or on the pages of a novel, he has loved watching the characters progress through challenges and come out changed on the other side. William believes that every person has their own story to tell, and they are in charge of writing the script. His goal as a therapist is to help people comprehend their backstories, but also to empower them to take control of their lives and rewrite their endings.
(217) 996-9139 View (217) 996-9139
Photo of Emily Baughman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Emily Baughman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Emily Baughman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has an MA in Human Development Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a BS and AA in Psychology. Emily is devoted to positively impacting the lives of her clients by helping them to develop skills necessary to survive and thrive in every season of life. She thrives in a collaborative therapeutic alliance that promotes safety, trust, and growth through supportive interactions with clients.
Emily Baughman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has an MA in Human Development Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a BS and AA in Psychology. Emily is devoted to positively impacting the lives of her clients by helping them to develop skills necessary to survive and thrive in every season of life. She thrives in a collaborative therapeutic alliance that promotes safety, trust, and growth through supportive interactions with clients.
(217) 628-7604 View (217) 628-7604
Photo of Jami Lynn Jamieson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Jami Lynn Jamieson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I have been working with families with children, adolescents, and young adults for ninteen years. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families that seek treatment for emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, grief and loss, and self-harm and aggressive behaviors. Many times, both adult and young members of a family need therapeutic support when emotional and behavioral issues are present. I also have experience working with clients to increase age appropriate communication and social skills in order to develop and maintain positive relationships. I am able to see clients with or without the members of their families.
I have been working with families with children, adolescents, and young adults for ninteen years. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families that seek treatment for emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, grief and loss, and self-harm and aggressive behaviors. Many times, both adult and young members of a family need therapeutic support when emotional and behavioral issues are present. I also have experience working with clients to increase age appropriate communication and social skills in order to develop and maintain positive relationships. I am able to see clients with or without the members of their families.
(217) 629-4045 View (217) 629-4045
Photo of Bill McKenzie, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Bill McKenzie
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Healing is always close to us, just undiscovered. Greetings - I'm Bill McKenzie, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, I have a Master's degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield in Human Development Counseling. I'm currently practicing at Springfield Psychological Center in Springfield, Illinois. I believe that therapy lights the steps that lead to inner health and happiness. Think of it as a courageous process of sorting through reflective questions about where and how you're stuck. Therapy above all else means having an objective, supportive partner to navigate life's troubling challenges with.
Healing is always close to us, just undiscovered. Greetings - I'm Bill McKenzie, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, I have a Master's degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield in Human Development Counseling. I'm currently practicing at Springfield Psychological Center in Springfield, Illinois. I believe that therapy lights the steps that lead to inner health and happiness. Think of it as a courageous process of sorting through reflective questions about where and how you're stuck. Therapy above all else means having an objective, supportive partner to navigate life's troubling challenges with.
(217) 600-2714 View (217) 600-2714
Photo of Julie Tucker-Ponder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Julie Tucker-Ponder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, MAATP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
(217) 909-9080 View (217) 909-9080
Photo of Julia Lopez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Julia Lopez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the State of Illinois with 17 years of clinical experience. I use a variety of techniques in therapy and match treatment techniques based on the individual needs of each client. I focus on areas of anxiety, trauma and PTSD, depression, relationship issues, and adolescent/teen issues. I incorporate techniques from Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Art Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the State of Illinois with 17 years of clinical experience. I use a variety of techniques in therapy and match treatment techniques based on the individual needs of each client. I focus on areas of anxiety, trauma and PTSD, depression, relationship issues, and adolescent/teen issues. I incorporate techniques from Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Art Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(217) 290-2359 View (217) 290-2359
Photo of Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Do you often ask yourself what is my life's purpose, is and struggle with emptiness each day? Are you struggling to make life decisions amid feelings of uncertainty, that you are always going to make a wrong decision? Do you question your current relationships, but struggle with relational patterns such as manipulations, attachment issues, co-dependency, problems setting boundaries, narcissism-controlled environments, and emotional abuse? At Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC we understand the pressures of life at these transition stages.
Do you often ask yourself what is my life's purpose, is and struggle with emptiness each day? Are you struggling to make life decisions amid feelings of uncertainty, that you are always going to make a wrong decision? Do you question your current relationships, but struggle with relational patterns such as manipulations, attachment issues, co-dependency, problems setting boundaries, narcissism-controlled environments, and emotional abuse? At Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC we understand the pressures of life at these transition stages.
(217) 795-9878 View (217) 795-9878
Photo of Katharine (Kathy) Martin, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Katharine (Kathy) Martin
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for taking the time to seek counseling for yourself or your family. I know it is not easy to seek help from someone you do not know. I have been told I have a direct approach to assist in getting through painful memories at a gentle pace. I believe old pains can be healed if allowed to be shared, explored, and understood. For appointments, I have daytime and some evening appointments and use text alerts for appointment reminders. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions.
Thank you for taking the time to seek counseling for yourself or your family. I know it is not easy to seek help from someone you do not know. I have been told I have a direct approach to assist in getting through painful memories at a gentle pace. I believe old pains can be healed if allowed to be shared, explored, and understood. For appointments, I have daytime and some evening appointments and use text alerts for appointment reminders. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions.
(217) 718-2528 View (217) 718-2528
Photo of Patricia Fehr, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Patricia Fehr
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Trish Fehr is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 1994. She earned her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Illinois State University and also holds a Bachelor's Degree from Eastern Illinois University. Trish offers patients a safe place to explore how their past is impacting their current choices. A judgement free journey to examine what is and is not working for them related to coping choices.
Trish Fehr is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 1994. She earned her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Illinois State University and also holds a Bachelor's Degree from Eastern Illinois University. Trish offers patients a safe place to explore how their past is impacting their current choices. A judgement free journey to examine what is and is not working for them related to coping choices.
(217) 829-2743 View (217) 829-2743
Photo of Ashley N Mesey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Ashley N Mesey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. I have been in the mental health field for some time, and in my journey I have found a passion for helping others, especially when there are many things to consider: physical health, mental health, spiritual health, recovery from addiction, etc... It's my belief to look at the person as a whole rather than a list of concerns.
Hello and welcome. I have been in the mental health field for some time, and in my journey I have found a passion for helping others, especially when there are many things to consider: physical health, mental health, spiritual health, recovery from addiction, etc... It's my belief to look at the person as a whole rather than a list of concerns.
(217) 834-8189 View (217) 834-8189
Photo of Jordan Grimm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Jordan Grimm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. I specialize in clients struggling with grief and loss. As a clinician I recognize that as we move through life many if not most experiences include loss, physical or otherwise. I also work with clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or birth trauma. I provide a safe space for clients to process experiences and emotions and navigate a path forward to healing. As a member of the Still Waters Counseling team I look forward to empowering my clients so they can live their lives to the fullest and heal from past trauma.
Accepting new clients. I specialize in clients struggling with grief and loss. As a clinician I recognize that as we move through life many if not most experiences include loss, physical or otherwise. I also work with clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or birth trauma. I provide a safe space for clients to process experiences and emotions and navigate a path forward to healing. As a member of the Still Waters Counseling team I look forward to empowering my clients so they can live their lives to the fullest and heal from past trauma.
(217) 269-1394 View (217) 269-1394
Photo of Melissa McCulloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Melissa McCulloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Not accepting new clients
Life is full of change. Some of these changes can be difficult to navigate alone. Whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one or feeling overwhelmed and anxious with life in general, I am here to help. It can be challenging to cope with your own grief let alone the grief your child is experiencing. I have years of experience helping individuals of all ages cope with life changes.
Life is full of change. Some of these changes can be difficult to navigate alone. Whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one or feeling overwhelmed and anxious with life in general, I am here to help. It can be challenging to cope with your own grief let alone the grief your child is experiencing. I have years of experience helping individuals of all ages cope with life changes.
(217) 764-7560 View (217) 764-7560
Photo of Kelly Crooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Kelly Crooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Kelly. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois. I received my MSW in Social Work from SIU Edwardsville in 2013 and got my LCSW in 2017. I have worked with children in all different settings since 2014. The LGBTQ community has been a part of my practice, especially when working in the most rural of areas. I have helped children and adults with different diagnoses over the course of my career and continue growing in my knowledge of how to serve each individual.
Hello! I'm Kelly. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois. I received my MSW in Social Work from SIU Edwardsville in 2013 and got my LCSW in 2017. I have worked with children in all different settings since 2014. The LGBTQ community has been a part of my practice, especially when working in the most rural of areas. I have helped children and adults with different diagnoses over the course of my career and continue growing in my knowledge of how to serve each individual.
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Photo of Latavia S Agada, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Latavia S Agada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker, who is compassionate and supportive in helping you overcome life challenges. I am a big believer in your ability to persevere and overcome life's challenges and sit with you as an interactive listener, source of support and also a challenger of thoughts. I strongly believe in trauma-informed care and my specialties are in trauma, grief, cultural issues and adjustments, amongst other presenting issues. You, your situation, and your life are very important and I want you to feel that way in your session.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, who is compassionate and supportive in helping you overcome life challenges. I am a big believer in your ability to persevere and overcome life's challenges and sit with you as an interactive listener, source of support and also a challenger of thoughts. I strongly believe in trauma-informed care and my specialties are in trauma, grief, cultural issues and adjustments, amongst other presenting issues. You, your situation, and your life are very important and I want you to feel that way in your session.
(815) 396-4403 View (815) 396-4403
Photo of Sarah Spurling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Sarah Spurling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Sarah Spurling (she/they) is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, holding an MSW from the University at Buffalo, SUNY. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and supporting LGBTQ+ populations, Sarah's practice is grounded in an identity-affirming, anti-oppressive framework that respects and validates diverse lived experiences. Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, humanistic, existential, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Sarah tailors her approach to each individual's unique needs and circumstances.
Sarah Spurling (she/they) is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, holding an MSW from the University at Buffalo, SUNY. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and supporting LGBTQ+ populations, Sarah's practice is grounded in an identity-affirming, anti-oppressive framework that respects and validates diverse lived experiences. Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, humanistic, existential, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Sarah tailors her approach to each individual's unique needs and circumstances.
(217) 834-1983 View (217) 834-1983
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, Psychologist in Springfield, IL
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(630) 506-3906 View (630) 506-3906
Photo of Hillary LaMontagne, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Hillary LaMontagne
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Hillary has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and offers therapy for individuals ages 13 and up dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. Hillary enjoys working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss through death and divorce, are healing from trauma, moms dealing with postpartum depression, and the LGBTQ community. Her specialty areas include substance abuse recovery and transgender transitions. She offers animal-assisted therapy with her dog, Holly, to create a relaxed and comforting environment during sessions.
Hillary has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and offers therapy for individuals ages 13 and up dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. Hillary enjoys working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss through death and divorce, are healing from trauma, moms dealing with postpartum depression, and the LGBTQ community. Her specialty areas include substance abuse recovery and transgender transitions. She offers animal-assisted therapy with her dog, Holly, to create a relaxed and comforting environment during sessions.
(217) 773-5417 View (217) 773-5417
Photo of Personal Counseling Services - Vicki Vandeveer, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist in Springfield, IL
Personal Counseling Services - Vicki Vandeveer, MA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCPC, CADC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
(217) 216-8284 View (217) 216-8284

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Springfield, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Springfield, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
67% Stress
64% Relationship Issues
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Springfield, IL see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
18% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Springfield?

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.