Therapists in Louisville, KY

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Photo of Jane M Owens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Louisville, KY
Jane M Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40206
My approach to helping my clients includes providing a safe emotional space, empathy, understanding how thoughts impact our feelings and behavior and implementing mindfulness to promote positive change. Whether it is individual therapy for yourself, couples therapy to strengthen a relationship, or family therapy to make home a healthier emotional environment, I can help you work through issues that may have been simmering for years. Even small changes in thinking and perspective along with learning appropriate communication and life skills can make a joyful difference.
My approach to helping my clients includes providing a safe emotional space, empathy, understanding how thoughts impact our feelings and behavior and implementing mindfulness to promote positive change. Whether it is individual therapy for yourself, couples therapy to strengthen a relationship, or family therapy to make home a healthier emotional environment, I can help you work through issues that may have been simmering for years. Even small changes in thinking and perspective along with learning appropriate communication and life skills can make a joyful difference.
(502) 771-4686 View (502) 771-4686
Photo of Tiffany Pierson, Counselor in Louisville, KY
Tiffany Pierson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40291
As someone that, at different times in my life, has sought out therapy I can appreciate how difficult taking that first step to reach out can be. During these unprecedented times, many people are enduring feelings of depression, grief, and anxiety. My goal is to help you address these feelings and to develop appropriate coping skills to handle these times. I believe in a client/therapist relationship that helps you to be your best "you" by nurturing the tools and skills that already exist and helping you build a bigger "tool box" to work with.
As someone that, at different times in my life, has sought out therapy I can appreciate how difficult taking that first step to reach out can be. During these unprecedented times, many people are enduring feelings of depression, grief, and anxiety. My goal is to help you address these feelings and to develop appropriate coping skills to handle these times. I believe in a client/therapist relationship that helps you to be your best "you" by nurturing the tools and skills that already exist and helping you build a bigger "tool box" to work with.
(502) 237-9559 View (502) 237-9559
Photo of Dr. Melissa Gibson, Psychologist in Louisville, KY
Dr. Melissa Gibson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating teens and young adults with anxiety disorders and eating disorders. I am passionate about helping people who are stuck in strong feelings, unhelpful habits or relationship patterns. After assessing your symptoms, I focus on building a trusting & collaborative relationship to help you understand your “stuckness”, clarify your values, and use evidenced based treatment to help you create meaningful change in your life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating teens and young adults with anxiety disorders and eating disorders. I am passionate about helping people who are stuck in strong feelings, unhelpful habits or relationship patterns. After assessing your symptoms, I focus on building a trusting & collaborative relationship to help you understand your “stuckness”, clarify your values, and use evidenced based treatment to help you create meaningful change in your life.
(502) 717-1137 View (502) 717-1137
Photo of Angela Hall -Therapy For Women, Marriage & Family Therapist in Louisville, KY
Angela Hall -Therapy For Women
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Accepting new clients! I'm Angela Hall, a psychotherapist for women. My therapeutic approach is holistic, spiritual, clinical, collaborative & trauma informed and is rooted in neuroscience. Have traditional approaches such as antidepressants, meditation, faith & prayer, yoga, journaling, relaxation strategies, etc., not proven effective for you? Has relationship loss left you feeling hopeless, angry or in overwhelming grief? Are you weary in managing physical/emotional symptoms of anxiety and panic? Are you ready to find fulfillment and individuality following a lifetime of people-pleasing, codependence or religious trauma?
Accepting new clients! I'm Angela Hall, a psychotherapist for women. My therapeutic approach is holistic, spiritual, clinical, collaborative & trauma informed and is rooted in neuroscience. Have traditional approaches such as antidepressants, meditation, faith & prayer, yoga, journaling, relaxation strategies, etc., not proven effective for you? Has relationship loss left you feeling hopeless, angry or in overwhelming grief? Are you weary in managing physical/emotional symptoms of anxiety and panic? Are you ready to find fulfillment and individuality following a lifetime of people-pleasing, codependence or religious trauma?
(502) 547-0152 View (502) 547-0152
Photo of Bridge To Restoration LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Bridge To Restoration LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
Taking the first step towards healing from childhood trauma can be challenging, but it's a powerful decision. If you're struggling with anxiety or depression and suspect it may be rooted in past experiences, you're not alone. At Bridge To Restoration, we offer compassionate online therapy for individuals (preteens to adults) residing in Kentucky and Indiana. We specialize in trauma-informed therapy utilizing CBT and narrative therapy to help you: Understand and process your past experiences. Manage difficult emotions like anger, sadness, and anxiety.
Taking the first step towards healing from childhood trauma can be challenging, but it's a powerful decision. If you're struggling with anxiety or depression and suspect it may be rooted in past experiences, you're not alone. At Bridge To Restoration, we offer compassionate online therapy for individuals (preteens to adults) residing in Kentucky and Indiana. We specialize in trauma-informed therapy utilizing CBT and narrative therapy to help you: Understand and process your past experiences. Manage difficult emotions like anger, sadness, and anxiety.
(270) 279-0034 View (270) 279-0034
Photo of Melanie Hettinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Melanie Hettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
I have been practicing in the Louisville area since 2002. My experience ranges from acute inpatient care to out-patient therapy; working with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples. Through my experience I am hoping to further apply my skills working with those who may be dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depressive/mood disorders, grief/death/dying issues, self esteem issues, peer conflicts, ADHD/ADD, social skills, parent/child relationships, and parenting skills. I want to work together to develop a therapeutic relationship that addresses your area of needs combined with empathetic understanding and validation of feelings.
I have been practicing in the Louisville area since 2002. My experience ranges from acute inpatient care to out-patient therapy; working with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples. Through my experience I am hoping to further apply my skills working with those who may be dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depressive/mood disorders, grief/death/dying issues, self esteem issues, peer conflicts, ADHD/ADD, social skills, parent/child relationships, and parenting skills. I want to work together to develop a therapeutic relationship that addresses your area of needs combined with empathetic understanding and validation of feelings.
(502) 265-3930 View (502) 265-3930
Photo of Margaret Stephanie Ruanto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Margaret Stephanie Ruanto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40241  (Online Only)
Margaret "Stephanie" Ruanto is a licensed clinical social worker. Stephanie understands that it can be overwhelming to seek treatment. Asking for help is a tough decision for many people and trusting a therapist with their personal feelings and information is often anxiety-producing. Stephanie offers support and a listening ear as her patients find relief from the burdens of emotional distress. Her goal is to foster growth in her patients so they can find solutions to improve their quality of life.
Margaret "Stephanie" Ruanto is a licensed clinical social worker. Stephanie understands that it can be overwhelming to seek treatment. Asking for help is a tough decision for many people and trusting a therapist with their personal feelings and information is often anxiety-producing. Stephanie offers support and a listening ear as her patients find relief from the burdens of emotional distress. Her goal is to foster growth in her patients so they can find solutions to improve their quality of life.
(502) 680-8332 View (502) 680-8332
Photo of Sarah Lucich, Counselor in Louisville, KY
Sarah Lucich
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Sarah Lucich is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Sarah believes that building a strong therapeutic alliance with the client is fundamental to efficacy of therapy. She is dedicated to empowering and building up each client so that they can take their power back and live the life they want to live. Sarah loves to incorporate movement and client interests into therapy to facilitate increasing client insight and self-awareness. She is straight-forward in order to increase transparency when partnering with clients when working toward client goals for treatment.
Sarah Lucich is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. Sarah believes that building a strong therapeutic alliance with the client is fundamental to efficacy of therapy. She is dedicated to empowering and building up each client so that they can take their power back and live the life they want to live. Sarah loves to incorporate movement and client interests into therapy to facilitate increasing client insight and self-awareness. She is straight-forward in order to increase transparency when partnering with clients when working toward client goals for treatment.
(502) 369-7802 View (502) 369-7802
Photo of Cheyenne Hubbard, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Louisville, KY
Cheyenne Hubbard
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40243
With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My goal is to support you in gaining insight, finding solutions, and developing the tools to navigate life's challenges. I have a passion for helping individuals heal and grow, drawing from my experience and training in CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, I'm dedicated to working with you to achieve your goals.
With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My goal is to support you in gaining insight, finding solutions, and developing the tools to navigate life's challenges. I have a passion for helping individuals heal and grow, drawing from my experience and training in CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, I'm dedicated to working with you to achieve your goals.
(502) 586-2589 View (502) 586-2589
Photo of The Beautiful Soul Asylum, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Louisville, KY
The Beautiful Soul Asylum
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, CPCS, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40205
Not accepting new clients
The Beautiful Soul Asylum provides a landing for those who seek comfort and care for their mental health. At the Asylum, you'll find understanding, insight, and validation. I am more than a listening ear, I am a listening heart that desires to provide you support and validation as you confront your challenges, struggles, and experiences. I work holistically in healing the soul (mind) and the spirit (conscience). Through empowering experiences, counseling, assessment, and non-talk approaches I assist people in embracing themselves without condition. All souls need a place to retreat, rejuvenate, and restore.
The Beautiful Soul Asylum provides a landing for those who seek comfort and care for their mental health. At the Asylum, you'll find understanding, insight, and validation. I am more than a listening ear, I am a listening heart that desires to provide you support and validation as you confront your challenges, struggles, and experiences. I work holistically in healing the soul (mind) and the spirit (conscience). Through empowering experiences, counseling, assessment, and non-talk approaches I assist people in embracing themselves without condition. All souls need a place to retreat, rejuvenate, and restore.
(478) 221-7483 View (478) 221-7483
Photo of Alicia Lacy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Alicia Lacy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40217  (Online Only)
I can help my clients meet their goals through my experience, education, and available tools.
I can help my clients meet their goals through my experience, education, and available tools.
(502) 200-1407 View (502) 200-1407
Photo of Carol A Niehaus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Carol A Niehaus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40272  (Online Only)
I have a great deal of experience working with people who have chronic illness, depression, anxiety and co-dependency. I work with many people who are the caregivers to their families. I’ve observed that caregivers are often wonderful about taking care of everyone except themselves. As a therapist I will help you prioritize self care. I will support you in setting limits and boundaries and keeping that backbone when then temptation is to please others at your own expense. It is OK to say “No”. It is OK to put yourself first for a change. It is important that you feel seen and heard. Your feelings matter.
I have a great deal of experience working with people who have chronic illness, depression, anxiety and co-dependency. I work with many people who are the caregivers to their families. I’ve observed that caregivers are often wonderful about taking care of everyone except themselves. As a therapist I will help you prioritize self care. I will support you in setting limits and boundaries and keeping that backbone when then temptation is to please others at your own expense. It is OK to say “No”. It is OK to put yourself first for a change. It is important that you feel seen and heard. Your feelings matter.
(502) 878-7079 View (502) 878-7079
Photo of Jesslyn Bacon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Jesslyn Bacon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
You pour into others daily, but feel empty when the day is done. You wonder if the thankless tasks of daily life will ever be enjoyable again. Do you feel like you're ready for someone to pour into you? I specialize in anxiety, stress management, burnout/compassion fatigue that members of the helping profession (teachers, medical providers, mental health providers, etc) experience, and life transitions for high school and college students. Let's prioritize YOU together. Allow me to help you navigate through these moments in your life.
You pour into others daily, but feel empty when the day is done. You wonder if the thankless tasks of daily life will ever be enjoyable again. Do you feel like you're ready for someone to pour into you? I specialize in anxiety, stress management, burnout/compassion fatigue that members of the helping profession (teachers, medical providers, mental health providers, etc) experience, and life transitions for high school and college students. Let's prioritize YOU together. Allow me to help you navigate through these moments in your life.
(502) 549-1164 View (502) 549-1164
Photo of Lindsey M Lowe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisville, KY
Lindsey M Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
The most common form of suffering I see in people is when they no longer trust themselves. If you are struggling with habits that are harmful; whether it be drug or alcohol addiction, eating or spending money in harmful ways, there is hope that you can trust yourself again. Suffering comes in many forms, but for all in pain there is a way to heal and to feel safe again. My job is to help you find that.
The most common form of suffering I see in people is when they no longer trust themselves. If you are struggling with habits that are harmful; whether it be drug or alcohol addiction, eating or spending money in harmful ways, there is hope that you can trust yourself again. Suffering comes in many forms, but for all in pain there is a way to heal and to feel safe again. My job is to help you find that.
(502) 215-3338 View (502) 215-3338
Photo of Shereka Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Shereka Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling to cope with a traumatic event? Do you feel like life is beating you up? Are you feeling defeated before your day gets started? Life’s hardships can be difficult to maneuver and can cause a decline in day to day functioning. That decline may show up in mood changes, increased anxiety, difficulty connecting with others, or lack of interest in the things you once enjoyed. If you’re feeling like life is beating you, don’t fight that battle alone. You can overcome these hardships, take back your life, and prevail.
Are you struggling to cope with a traumatic event? Do you feel like life is beating you up? Are you feeling defeated before your day gets started? Life’s hardships can be difficult to maneuver and can cause a decline in day to day functioning. That decline may show up in mood changes, increased anxiety, difficulty connecting with others, or lack of interest in the things you once enjoyed. If you’re feeling like life is beating you, don’t fight that battle alone. You can overcome these hardships, take back your life, and prevail.
(502) 237-1145 View (502) 237-1145
Photo of Isaac Martin Hout, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Louisville, KY
Isaac Martin Hout
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
I believe in a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy, tailoring my interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. By fostering a warm and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, I create a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Drawing from evidence-based modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and positive psychology, I empower individuals to develop resilience, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate healthier coping strategies. I work primarily with adolescents and younger adults, but I am open to all age groups.
I believe in a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy, tailoring my interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. By fostering a warm and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, I create a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Drawing from evidence-based modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and positive psychology, I empower individuals to develop resilience, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate healthier coping strategies. I work primarily with adolescents and younger adults, but I am open to all age groups.
(502) 878-7067 View (502) 878-7067
Photo of Charles Smiley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Charles Smiley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, CSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
Hey you, yes you!.! If you’re struggling with life, school, relationships, family, work, or even prioritizing yourself then you’ve come to the right place. I generally work with children and adolescents but have an extensive experience working with adults as well. From at risk populations, to self-care and boundaries; from traumatic experiences, to difficulty coping with indescribable emotions, this may be your stop.
Hey you, yes you!.! If you’re struggling with life, school, relationships, family, work, or even prioritizing yourself then you’ve come to the right place. I generally work with children and adolescents but have an extensive experience working with adults as well. From at risk populations, to self-care and boundaries; from traumatic experiences, to difficulty coping with indescribable emotions, this may be your stop.
(502) 237-4742 View (502) 237-4742
Photo of William C Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
William C Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW, AAMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40299
Life can be stressful and throw us curves, from job to relationships to children to parent/elder care to grief and loss. Using the client's special/ unique skills, I work collaboratively to solve existing problems. With over 25 years of experience, I especially enjoy working with families and couples of all ages. I also work with Domestic Violence perpetrators and victims, with the goal of the perpetrator becoming a nonviolent, respectful partner and/or parent.
Life can be stressful and throw us curves, from job to relationships to children to parent/elder care to grief and loss. Using the client's special/ unique skills, I work collaboratively to solve existing problems. With over 25 years of experience, I especially enjoy working with families and couples of all ages. I also work with Domestic Violence perpetrators and victims, with the goal of the perpetrator becoming a nonviolent, respectful partner and/or parent.
(502) 466-3161 View (502) 466-3161
Photo of Necole L Richardson, Counselor in Louisville, KY
Necole L Richardson
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40202  (Online Only)
You've taken the first step! Is your trauma becoming more of a problem for you? Are you struggling with motivation and feeling more overwhelmed. Are you using unsustainable or unhealthy ways to cope with life? You are not alone. Life is pretty complex and sometimes presents us with challenges that require extra support. Being curious or even feed up enough to look for extra support for your struggles shows a lot of courage. Congratulations to you for not allowing those old fears to consume you and taking the first step to improve your life.
You've taken the first step! Is your trauma becoming more of a problem for you? Are you struggling with motivation and feeling more overwhelmed. Are you using unsustainable or unhealthy ways to cope with life? You are not alone. Life is pretty complex and sometimes presents us with challenges that require extra support. Being curious or even feed up enough to look for extra support for your struggles shows a lot of courage. Congratulations to you for not allowing those old fears to consume you and taking the first step to improve your life.
(423) 295-7760 View (423) 295-7760
Photo of Tyler Horn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisville, KY
Tyler Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40218
Waitlist for new clients
I know that if you have a concern about your child, it can keep you up at night. Maybe you've tried internet searches or self-help books - but lately, you're feeling ready for some professional help. I take pride in meeting your family where they are with professional, helpful, and immediate suggestions. I am a great fit for families who feel they have not been informed enough about their child's therapy in the past.
I know that if you have a concern about your child, it can keep you up at night. Maybe you've tried internet searches or self-help books - but lately, you're feeling ready for some professional help. I take pride in meeting your family where they are with professional, helpful, and immediate suggestions. I am a great fit for families who feel they have not been informed enough about their child's therapy in the past.
(502) 912-8889 View (502) 912-8889

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Louisville, KY

1,000+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Louisville, KY who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
71% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
59% Relationship Issues
57% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

72% Aetna
70% Humana
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Louisville, KY see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Louisville?

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.