Therapists in New York, NY

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Photo of Elisa Hasrouni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Elisa Hasrouni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
Welcome to Monarch Therapy: Life can be overwhelming and sometimes we just want to be understood. We all want to feel like we are enough, accepted, and to find our sense of belonging. We are a compassionate, empathetic, and knowledgeable team of therapists ready to help you explore whatever seems to get in the way of living your best life possible. Please visit our practice website for more information about the team and what you can expect in our work together.
Welcome to Monarch Therapy: Life can be overwhelming and sometimes we just want to be understood. We all want to feel like we are enough, accepted, and to find our sense of belonging. We are a compassionate, empathetic, and knowledgeable team of therapists ready to help you explore whatever seems to get in the way of living your best life possible. Please visit our practice website for more information about the team and what you can expect in our work together.
(646) 791-4196 View (646) 791-4196
Photo of Pia C. Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Pia C. Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
Everyone has the potential for greatness, it's a matter of how we learn to use life's experiences, challenges and triumphs to actualize the best of who we are. My goal is to work together to build on your strengths to help make lasting changes and move towards leading a content and fulfilling life. Working in the mental health field for over 20 years, I have worked with a wide range of individuals specifically LGBTQ singles and couples. I use a straight forward and supportive approach to help you understand and work through your struggles.
Everyone has the potential for greatness, it's a matter of how we learn to use life's experiences, challenges and triumphs to actualize the best of who we are. My goal is to work together to build on your strengths to help make lasting changes and move towards leading a content and fulfilling life. Working in the mental health field for over 20 years, I have worked with a wide range of individuals specifically LGBTQ singles and couples. I use a straight forward and supportive approach to help you understand and work through your struggles.
(646) 760-8353 View (646) 760-8353
Photo of Jenny Mahlum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jenny Mahlum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdM, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
With formal training in CBT, AEDP, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method & psychodynamic therapy, I blend multiple evidence-based practices to create individualized approaches to change for couples and individuals. As an integrative psychotherapist with additional degrees from Harvard and Northwestern in Psychology & Human Development, I draw on deep knowledge of human behavior. I specialize in working with intimate partners and individuals. I work with individuals and couples to discover what matters most and set long and short-term goals together.
With formal training in CBT, AEDP, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method & psychodynamic therapy, I blend multiple evidence-based practices to create individualized approaches to change for couples and individuals. As an integrative psychotherapist with additional degrees from Harvard and Northwestern in Psychology & Human Development, I draw on deep knowledge of human behavior. I specialize in working with intimate partners and individuals. I work with individuals and couples to discover what matters most and set long and short-term goals together.
(347) 695-8840 View (347) 695-8840
Photo of Elyssa Scharaga, Psychologist in New York, NY
Elyssa Scharaga
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In my practice, I strive to help each patient understand their true potential and achieve their goals through comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and psychotherapy. My treatment and assessment practice is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and families. I provide clinical neuropsychological evaluations for a wide range of known or suspected cognitive disorders across the lifespan. I also provide psychotherapy to those suffering from life stressors related to medical conditions, caregiver burden, depression, and anxiety.
In my practice, I strive to help each patient understand their true potential and achieve their goals through comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and psychotherapy. My treatment and assessment practice is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and families. I provide clinical neuropsychological evaluations for a wide range of known or suspected cognitive disorders across the lifespan. I also provide psychotherapy to those suffering from life stressors related to medical conditions, caregiver burden, depression, and anxiety.
(516) 217-4516 View (516) 217-4516
Photo of Gabriella Hiatt in New York, NY
Gabriella Hiatt
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018
Therapy offers the opportunity to speak about that which may feel unspeakable, shameful, or muddled. The dual process of speaking and observing what emerges is useful for confronting a range of challenges and symptoms. Through careful listening and interpretation, I aim to foster insight and curiosity about your inner world. Over time, patterns emerge that invite exploration and open up the possibility for changes to be made.
Therapy offers the opportunity to speak about that which may feel unspeakable, shameful, or muddled. The dual process of speaking and observing what emerges is useful for confronting a range of challenges and symptoms. Through careful listening and interpretation, I aim to foster insight and curiosity about your inner world. Over time, patterns emerge that invite exploration and open up the possibility for changes to be made.
(646) 798-4907 View (646) 798-4907
Photo of Anne Heller in New York, NY
Anne Heller
MHC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Are you living the life you want? Stuck or unsatisfied in your relationships? Tired and depleted? Maybe you have friends, but find yourself wondering who you would really call in the middle of the night. Or your romantic relationship feels stuck, like you are repeating the same pattern over and over. We all know that deeper connection and intimacy are necessary for a more satisfying life, yet we feel that we are not getting what we need or want. Or maybe your pain is related to your job. You are working hard but not getting the recognition you crave. For many of us, we feel depleted or anxious and don't fully understand why.
Are you living the life you want? Stuck or unsatisfied in your relationships? Tired and depleted? Maybe you have friends, but find yourself wondering who you would really call in the middle of the night. Or your romantic relationship feels stuck, like you are repeating the same pattern over and over. We all know that deeper connection and intimacy are necessary for a more satisfying life, yet we feel that we are not getting what we need or want. Or maybe your pain is related to your job. You are working hard but not getting the recognition you crave. For many of us, we feel depleted or anxious and don't fully understand why.
(646) 916-5491 View (646) 916-5491
Photo of Tracy Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Tracy Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Volatile couples are often passionate couples. "We love each other and have a good relationship, why we do end up in the same hurtful arguments?" The passion in your relationship is energizing but can also turn into fights accompanied by extreme anger. Often this results in one person withdrawing and both left feeling hurt and misunderstood. I help couples turn volatility into versatility. Volatility is explosive energy; versatility means having choices and tools to use at the right moment while keeping healthy passion alive. My couples are people who have strong relationships but need help breaking patterns that lead them down a rabbit hole.
Volatile couples are often passionate couples. "We love each other and have a good relationship, why we do end up in the same hurtful arguments?" The passion in your relationship is energizing but can also turn into fights accompanied by extreme anger. Often this results in one person withdrawing and both left feeling hurt and misunderstood. I help couples turn volatility into versatility. Volatility is explosive energy; versatility means having choices and tools to use at the right moment while keeping healthy passion alive. My couples are people who have strong relationships but need help breaking patterns that lead them down a rabbit hole.
(646) 846-7242 View (646) 846-7242
Photo of Kate Feiner Lorenzoni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Kate Feiner Lorenzoni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024  (Online Only)
Therapy is going to the gym for your emotional and relational well-being, so I give you a ton of credit for being here, exploring how to get in shape! Throughout my work, I have developed a style that is warm, direct, and actively challenges you to evolve. I have a tremendous working knowledge of evidence-based models, including CBT, DBT, MST, and ACT, as well as psychodynamic theory and the Gottman Method. My commitment to staying updated on current research and utilizing evidence-based models is a testament to my resolve to deliver therapy that actually works to help you meet your goals and experience relief.
Therapy is going to the gym for your emotional and relational well-being, so I give you a ton of credit for being here, exploring how to get in shape! Throughout my work, I have developed a style that is warm, direct, and actively challenges you to evolve. I have a tremendous working knowledge of evidence-based models, including CBT, DBT, MST, and ACT, as well as psychodynamic theory and the Gottman Method. My commitment to staying updated on current research and utilizing evidence-based models is a testament to my resolve to deliver therapy that actually works to help you meet your goals and experience relief.
(914) 219-6821 View (914) 219-6821
Photo of Clare Gustavsson, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Clare Gustavsson
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MM, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation and connect with the authentic essence within you. Life's complexities can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, and disconnection, affecting relationships, career and your overall sense of well-being. External pressures fuel imposter syndrome and perfectionism. The relentless chatter of your inner critic is drowning out your inner sage. Together, let’s shed the burdens of “should” to find the clarity and confidence to be real and present in each moment. We’ll dive deep into questions about purpose, meaning, emotion, and authenticity, nurturing every nuance of your story.
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation and connect with the authentic essence within you. Life's complexities can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, and disconnection, affecting relationships, career and your overall sense of well-being. External pressures fuel imposter syndrome and perfectionism. The relentless chatter of your inner critic is drowning out your inner sage. Together, let’s shed the burdens of “should” to find the clarity and confidence to be real and present in each moment. We’ll dive deep into questions about purpose, meaning, emotion, and authenticity, nurturing every nuance of your story.
(646) 798-9515 View (646) 798-9515
Photo of Tima Hambleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Tima Hambleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Tima is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and incorporates the core components of DBT and DBT Skills into her practice. Tima has worked with people of all ages, with a specialty working with incarcerated populations and individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Tima’s previous experience includes working at inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient treatment clinics, jails and prisons, and NYC Criminal Courts.
Tima is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and incorporates the core components of DBT and DBT Skills into her practice. Tima has worked with people of all ages, with a specialty working with incarcerated populations and individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Tima’s previous experience includes working at inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient treatment clinics, jails and prisons, and NYC Criminal Courts.
(646) 832-4413 View (646) 832-4413
Photo of Michelle Back, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Michelle Back
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
My goal is to provide you the support and attention you deserve, with a kind intention in our space. Through your shared stories, we will face your life challenges together, and acknowledge positive strengths you hold, as well as negative beliefs that may hold you back. Many of my clients seek support for anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, childhood trauma, ptsd, grief, identity crises, low self-esteem, and more. Together, we will address your needs and explore your past, your present, and set you up for a future you are comfortable and confident with.
My goal is to provide you the support and attention you deserve, with a kind intention in our space. Through your shared stories, we will face your life challenges together, and acknowledge positive strengths you hold, as well as negative beliefs that may hold you back. Many of my clients seek support for anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, childhood trauma, ptsd, grief, identity crises, low self-esteem, and more. Together, we will address your needs and explore your past, your present, and set you up for a future you are comfortable and confident with.
(646) 350-3698 View (646) 350-3698
Photo of Joan S Ingalls, Counselor in New York, NY
Joan S Ingalls
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
People come to me with emotionally painful life issues - anxiety, depression, and troubled or failed relationships. I help them go beyond problem solving to creating richer, fuller lives. With over 30 years experience, I am an actively engaged therapist committed to helping my clients grow emotionally. Please contact me by email. I will respond promptly to email inquiries. If you prefer to text, please do so, but no voice messages please.
People come to me with emotionally painful life issues - anxiety, depression, and troubled or failed relationships. I help them go beyond problem solving to creating richer, fuller lives. With over 30 years experience, I am an actively engaged therapist committed to helping my clients grow emotionally. Please contact me by email. I will respond promptly to email inquiries. If you prefer to text, please do so, but no voice messages please.
(646) 351-1868 View (646) 351-1868
Photo of Ariel Goltche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Ariel Goltche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
Finding a new therapist can often feel daunting. My goal is to offer individuals a safe, non-judgmental space where they can speak freely about everything from daily challenges to the more nuanced, life-long issues. Therapy looks different for everyone, and I aim to provide a unique, personalized approach for each client. I acknowledge the importance of a trusting therapeutic relationship, and how meaningful it can be, over time, to truly connect with a therapist. Recognizing people are the experts of their own stories, I lead with compassion and understanding, with the intention of promoting self-agency and self-empowerment.
Finding a new therapist can often feel daunting. My goal is to offer individuals a safe, non-judgmental space where they can speak freely about everything from daily challenges to the more nuanced, life-long issues. Therapy looks different for everyone, and I aim to provide a unique, personalized approach for each client. I acknowledge the importance of a trusting therapeutic relationship, and how meaningful it can be, over time, to truly connect with a therapist. Recognizing people are the experts of their own stories, I lead with compassion and understanding, with the intention of promoting self-agency and self-empowerment.
(332) 248-1521 View (332) 248-1521
Photo of Brent Bounds, Psychologist in New York, NY
Brent Bounds
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I work collaboratively with my clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they are able to explore their most pressing concerns. My therapy practice is predominantly from a psychodynamic perspective, where I work with individual's current difficulties through the exploration of past and present experiences, influences and relationships. I also have an appreciation for cognitive-behavioral therapy and often use CBT skills to enhance my work with the client. I strive to meet clients where they are and help them articulate their expectations for therapy so that together we can create a positive and productive therapeutic relationship.
I work collaboratively with my clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they are able to explore their most pressing concerns. My therapy practice is predominantly from a psychodynamic perspective, where I work with individual's current difficulties through the exploration of past and present experiences, influences and relationships. I also have an appreciation for cognitive-behavioral therapy and often use CBT skills to enhance my work with the client. I strive to meet clients where they are and help them articulate their expectations for therapy so that together we can create a positive and productive therapeutic relationship.
(646) 350-0560 View (646) 350-0560
Photo of Beth Krone, Psychologist in New York, NY
Beth Krone
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Dr. Krone has highly specialized skills in diagnostic, cognitive, psycho-educational, and neuropsychological assessment. She is a skilled provider of evidence based and empirically supported therapies for children, adolescents, and adults who are adjusting to new diagnoses and chronic physical or mental health issues. For more than a decade, her work has focused on disorders in context of ADHD. She has helped hundreds of families learn to understand their 'new normal' in the face of life-changing diagnoses, manage their present situations, and develop skills to shape a better future and live to their fullest potential.
Dr. Krone has highly specialized skills in diagnostic, cognitive, psycho-educational, and neuropsychological assessment. She is a skilled provider of evidence based and empirically supported therapies for children, adolescents, and adults who are adjusting to new diagnoses and chronic physical or mental health issues. For more than a decade, her work has focused on disorders in context of ADHD. She has helped hundreds of families learn to understand their 'new normal' in the face of life-changing diagnoses, manage their present situations, and develop skills to shape a better future and live to their fullest potential.
(917) 540-5007 View (917) 540-5007
Photo of Mary Pender Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Mary Pender Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CGP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
For more than 20 years I have been an expert in working with adults and couples in a compassionate, respectful, non-judgmental way. I specialize in improving love and work relationships. I am a focused listener who provides a safe environment for discussing troubling feelings. I can help you learn more about yourself, identify your strengths, gain a new perspective, as well as recognize and change destructive behavior patterns. Together we will work on the issues that are interfering with your relationship satisfaction or career success and explore solutions. I can help you be your best self!
For more than 20 years I have been an expert in working with adults and couples in a compassionate, respectful, non-judgmental way. I specialize in improving love and work relationships. I am a focused listener who provides a safe environment for discussing troubling feelings. I can help you learn more about yourself, identify your strengths, gain a new perspective, as well as recognize and change destructive behavior patterns. Together we will work on the issues that are interfering with your relationship satisfaction or career success and explore solutions. I can help you be your best self!
(917) 267-0523 View (917) 267-0523
Photo of Anthony Graves, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Anthony Graves
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Waitlist for new clients
Inner conflicts regarding work, sexuality, or relationship dynamics can sometimes result in us feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed. Suffering in these ways can lead to feeling isolated, unmotivated, or anxious, lacking or even overwhelmed with energy, and above all, at a loss as to the root causes of these distressing feelings. Through talk therapy, we can work together to facilitate a creative understanding of your thought and emotional patterns that inhibit you or cause you pain.
Inner conflicts regarding work, sexuality, or relationship dynamics can sometimes result in us feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed. Suffering in these ways can lead to feeling isolated, unmotivated, or anxious, lacking or even overwhelmed with energy, and above all, at a loss as to the root causes of these distressing feelings. Through talk therapy, we can work together to facilitate a creative understanding of your thought and emotional patterns that inhibit you or cause you pain.
(929) 581-7142 View (929) 581-7142
Photo of Mikayla Greeley, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Mikayla Greeley
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I acknowledge that individuals often seek therapy to enhance their coping mechanisms, and understand that progress can be subjective for each client. I strive to collaboratively tailor treatment based on the specific challenges identified by each client, offering targeted techniques as clinically appropriate.
I acknowledge that individuals often seek therapy to enhance their coping mechanisms, and understand that progress can be subjective for each client. I strive to collaboratively tailor treatment based on the specific challenges identified by each client, offering targeted techniques as clinically appropriate.
(551) 257-0957 View (551) 257-0957
Photo of Alistair Blake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Alistair Blake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
My personal and professional understanding is that most people struggle with their decision to pursue psychotherapy. I understand the courage associated with your decision to see me today. Therefore, I would like to tell you about my training and my approach to psychotherapy. I am a New York State licensed psychotherapist and adjunct faculty at New York University. I hold a master's degree in clinical social work from Smith College School for School for Social Work.
My personal and professional understanding is that most people struggle with their decision to pursue psychotherapy. I understand the courage associated with your decision to see me today. Therefore, I would like to tell you about my training and my approach to psychotherapy. I am a New York State licensed psychotherapist and adjunct faculty at New York University. I hold a master's degree in clinical social work from Smith College School for School for Social Work.
(347) 566-9166 View (347) 566-9166
Photo of Dr. Brant Anderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Dr. Brant Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
You may have wondered whether therapy could be helpful to you. I offer a complimentary consultation to answer any questions you may have. I can help you explore your feelings, provide meaning to your experience, and developing your full potential. I can help become your own therapist by increasing your awareness, learning techniques, and coping strategies to deal with life's challenges. I work well with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, and body image issues. Clients frequently report improved well-being early on in therapy.
You may have wondered whether therapy could be helpful to you. I offer a complimentary consultation to answer any questions you may have. I can help you explore your feelings, provide meaning to your experience, and developing your full potential. I can help become your own therapist by increasing your awareness, learning techniques, and coping strategies to deal with life's challenges. I work well with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, and body image issues. Clients frequently report improved well-being early on in therapy.
(646) 828-1870 View (646) 828-1870

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

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.