Therapists in West Hollywood, CA

Photo of Sam Elliott Pow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Elliott Pow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
(747) 271-2029 View (747) 271-2029
Photo of Victoria Anderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with past or present trauma that leaves you feeling anxious, depressed, disconnected or critical of yourself? Trauma work is my specialty. I support my clients in a healing, safe environment to do the toughest work they may face...healing their past. Are your relationships suffering? Maybe you've been struggling with addiction issues. We can explore your struggles in these areas to get you the clarity you desire, and an action plan for recovery.
Are you struggling with past or present trauma that leaves you feeling anxious, depressed, disconnected or critical of yourself? Trauma work is my specialty. I support my clients in a healing, safe environment to do the toughest work they may face...healing their past. Are your relationships suffering? Maybe you've been struggling with addiction issues. We can explore your struggles in these areas to get you the clarity you desire, and an action plan for recovery.
(323) 677-4137 View (323) 677-4137
Photo of Jeff Robinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069
I have been working with men for almost 20 years now. One of my clients recently expressed to me that he is "grateful to have this space to be vulnerable because he feels that his wife would not understand." As humans, we need that place to be authentic, raw and honest with ourselves. My clients are creatives, attorneys, financial and media executives, engineers, and students, to highlight a few. They are grappling with family and career pressures, while struggling to care for themselves. Some are struggling with a substance dependency. Some are finding themselves acting out in a manner that is not serving them emotionally.
I have been working with men for almost 20 years now. One of my clients recently expressed to me that he is "grateful to have this space to be vulnerable because he feels that his wife would not understand." As humans, we need that place to be authentic, raw and honest with ourselves. My clients are creatives, attorneys, financial and media executives, engineers, and students, to highlight a few. They are grappling with family and career pressures, while struggling to care for themselves. Some are struggling with a substance dependency. Some are finding themselves acting out in a manner that is not serving them emotionally.
(424) 234-2313 View (424) 234-2313
Photo of Adam Marshall, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Adam Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046
Early on, Adam was intrigued by how we connect with ourselves and the world around us. His interests led him to explore a diverse range of cultures and beliefs. He received his masters degree in psychology, and further delved into meditation, sound healing, and other consciousness ideologies. Today, he uses a variety of those tools to help those around him. In an atmosphere free of judgement, Adam helps guide each individual through their journey to understand and love themselves more fully.
Early on, Adam was intrigued by how we connect with ourselves and the world around us. His interests led him to explore a diverse range of cultures and beliefs. He received his masters degree in psychology, and further delved into meditation, sound healing, and other consciousness ideologies. Today, he uses a variety of those tools to help those around him. In an atmosphere free of judgement, Adam helps guide each individual through their journey to understand and love themselves more fully.
(615) 338-6045 View (615) 338-6045
Photo of Savannah Jennings Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Savannah Jennings Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Savannah's approach is deeply rooted in building authentic connections with her clients. She believes that every individual's journey is unique and deserves to be met with compassion, empathy, and respect. Savannah aims to create a safe space for exploration, growth, and healing.
Savannah's approach is deeply rooted in building authentic connections with her clients. She believes that every individual's journey is unique and deserves to be met with compassion, empathy, and respect. Savannah aims to create a safe space for exploration, growth, and healing.
(323) 968-8302 View (323) 968-8302
Photo of Mike L Migdat, LCSW, MSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike L Migdat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves an enriching life full of meaning and purpose regardless of the difficulties that may come our way. My goal is to provide an affirming space for you to develop a deep understanding of yourself, explore challenges you’re facing both internally and externally, and discover healthy ways to achieve your goals. No matter where our work together takes us, you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
Everyone deserves an enriching life full of meaning and purpose regardless of the difficulties that may come our way. My goal is to provide an affirming space for you to develop a deep understanding of yourself, explore challenges you’re facing both internally and externally, and discover healthy ways to achieve your goals. No matter where our work together takes us, you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
(424) 389-5092 View (424) 389-5092
Photo of Dr. Peter Achenbach, PsyD , Psychological Associate
Dr. Peter Achenbach
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069
I believe that taking the step to begin therapy is the most courageous, brave act one can take toward healing. It can be very intimidating and scary, trusting another person with some of the most painful feelings and experiences you have gone through. My work is highly compassionate and empathic, with a culturally sensitive approach to each individual. Through the therapeutic relationship we will explore how your past experiences have contributed to your current challenges. Therapy is a safe and sacred space to explore current and past traumas, to develop self-compassion and to create a deeper self-understanding.
I believe that taking the step to begin therapy is the most courageous, brave act one can take toward healing. It can be very intimidating and scary, trusting another person with some of the most painful feelings and experiences you have gone through. My work is highly compassionate and empathic, with a culturally sensitive approach to each individual. Through the therapeutic relationship we will explore how your past experiences have contributed to your current challenges. Therapy is a safe and sacred space to explore current and past traumas, to develop self-compassion and to create a deeper self-understanding.
(323) 973-2325 View (323) 973-2325
Photo of Samantha Juliene, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Juliene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Hi. I first want to welcome you to my practice and congratulate you on your courage! As a therapist, my goal is to provide a space for you to be authentically who you are without judgment. I provide support during the hard times, ask tough questions when necessary, and work with you to find practical solutions to your challenges. I aim to forge a deep and trusting relationship so that you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. There are no quick fixes, but developing the life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting deeply with loved ones are key in building wholeness in mind, body, and spirit!
Hi. I first want to welcome you to my practice and congratulate you on your courage! As a therapist, my goal is to provide a space for you to be authentically who you are without judgment. I provide support during the hard times, ask tough questions when necessary, and work with you to find practical solutions to your challenges. I aim to forge a deep and trusting relationship so that you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. There are no quick fixes, but developing the life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting deeply with loved ones are key in building wholeness in mind, body, and spirit!
(747) 207-4454 View (747) 207-4454
Photo of James Guay, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Guay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Emotional and psychological pain is what drives most people to therapy. This pain can show up in our lives in various ways: never feeling good enough, going to sleep feeling lonely or disconnected, being riddled with anxiety, relationship conflict/boredom, or having unhealthy patterns that never seems to go away. Your life changes when you open yourself up to love, transformation and the present moment. When we develop a better relationship with ourselves — with lots of self-compassion — we can live life more fully. My style is conversational, direct, and provides a courages space for assisted self-study.
Emotional and psychological pain is what drives most people to therapy. This pain can show up in our lives in various ways: never feeling good enough, going to sleep feeling lonely or disconnected, being riddled with anxiety, relationship conflict/boredom, or having unhealthy patterns that never seems to go away. Your life changes when you open yourself up to love, transformation and the present moment. When we develop a better relationship with ourselves — with lots of self-compassion — we can live life more fully. My style is conversational, direct, and provides a courages space for assisted self-study.
(310) 736-2093 View (310) 736-2093
Photo of Aaron Jimenez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aaron Jimenez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069
I am a psychotherapist (LMFT) who graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. My clinical experience has been honed at AIDS Project Los Angeles and The LA Gay and Lesbian Center, two widely renowned sites where I served the diverse populations of Los Angeles in the company of exceptionally skilled colleagues. I combine my professional knowledge and personal experience to create a safe and encouraging space for clients to grow, process and gain insight.
I am a psychotherapist (LMFT) who graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. My clinical experience has been honed at AIDS Project Los Angeles and The LA Gay and Lesbian Center, two widely renowned sites where I served the diverse populations of Los Angeles in the company of exceptionally skilled colleagues. I combine my professional knowledge and personal experience to create a safe and encouraging space for clients to grow, process and gain insight.
(619) 268-4995 View (619) 268-4995
Photo of Naz Asgarian, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Naz Asgarian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
With a specialized focus on treating eating disorders, I bring experience in supporting individuals dealing with body image issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I want to empower my clients, guiding them towards healing and personal growth. I am committed to providing an environment of collaboration and encouragement where you feel acknowledged, heard, and validated.
With a specialized focus on treating eating disorders, I bring experience in supporting individuals dealing with body image issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I want to empower my clients, guiding them towards healing and personal growth. I am committed to providing an environment of collaboration and encouragement where you feel acknowledged, heard, and validated.
(323) 688-6189 View (323) 688-6189
Photo of Rachel Krepack, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Krepack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
We often find ourselves in a place in our lives where we face challenges or uncertainty, making it hard to move on or cope with stressors. Perhaps it is a difficult job, relationship turmoil, loss of a loved one, or another major life transition. Perhaps you are feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or feeling stuck and unable to find clarity or move forward. This can negatively impact our overall well-being and happiness. Psychotherapy can provide a haven to explore your circumstances and allow for greater insight and progress to move forward with a clearer headspace and intention.
We often find ourselves in a place in our lives where we face challenges or uncertainty, making it hard to move on or cope with stressors. Perhaps it is a difficult job, relationship turmoil, loss of a loved one, or another major life transition. Perhaps you are feeling depressed, anxious, angry, or feeling stuck and unable to find clarity or move forward. This can negatively impact our overall well-being and happiness. Psychotherapy can provide a haven to explore your circumstances and allow for greater insight and progress to move forward with a clearer headspace and intention.
(747) 268-0015 View (747) 268-0015
Photo of Tricia M Clemente, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia M Clemente
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, orientations, and adults ages 15 and above. I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive therapeutic environment where clients feel accepted and understood. I have experience working with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, and self-esteem challenges. I have additional experience working with minority groups, as well as individuals in nonmonogamous/open/polyamorous relationships.
I welcome individuals of all backgrounds, orientations, and adults ages 15 and above. I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive therapeutic environment where clients feel accepted and understood. I have experience working with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, and self-esteem challenges. I have additional experience working with minority groups, as well as individuals in nonmonogamous/open/polyamorous relationships.
(442) 239-4986 View (442) 239-4986
Photo of Dina Parvaneh, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dina Parvaneh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046
"Out beyond ideas of wrong doing and right doing there is a field. I'll meet you there." Rumi. I have over 15 years of experience dealing with individuals, couples, groups in various issues. The heart of my work is to assist you to live an emotionally authentic life in relationship to yourself and others. In the process of discovering your true self you will learn how certain emotions, behaviors and beliefs have affected your life and your relationships and you will become empowered to make important changes. My style is warm, non-judgmental and at the same time direct and confrontative.
"Out beyond ideas of wrong doing and right doing there is a field. I'll meet you there." Rumi. I have over 15 years of experience dealing with individuals, couples, groups in various issues. The heart of my work is to assist you to live an emotionally authentic life in relationship to yourself and others. In the process of discovering your true self you will learn how certain emotions, behaviors and beliefs have affected your life and your relationships and you will become empowered to make important changes. My style is warm, non-judgmental and at the same time direct and confrontative.
(323) 997-8385 View (323) 997-8385
Photo of Luana R Turner, PsyD, Psychologist
Luana R Turner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
When someone has experienced psychosis, depression, trauma or anxiety, it can be very challenging to know how to manage and return to the life you had planned. Working with someone who understands these challenges and how to navigate a new path, can greatly improve understanding and awareness, which can be the first stage in moving toward recovery from these difficulties. Focusing on collaborative care from a strength-based approach can improve self-esteem and confidence as you move toward your goals. Understanding your strengths can be a powerful way to work on your objectives, and help you identify any changes you want to make.
When someone has experienced psychosis, depression, trauma or anxiety, it can be very challenging to know how to manage and return to the life you had planned. Working with someone who understands these challenges and how to navigate a new path, can greatly improve understanding and awareness, which can be the first stage in moving toward recovery from these difficulties. Focusing on collaborative care from a strength-based approach can improve self-esteem and confidence as you move toward your goals. Understanding your strengths can be a powerful way to work on your objectives, and help you identify any changes you want to make.
(323) 990-6988 View (323) 990-6988
Photo of Brandon Brissette, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brandon Brissette
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I work with couples and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship distress, phase of life issues, and loss of self. I also work with men on emotional tolerance, emotional expression, self-advocacy, crises of purpose, and gaining comfort with vulnerability. We all face our own unique challenges in our everyday lives. These challenges can range from inspiring to overwhelming, from motivating to diminishing, and anything in between. Sometimes it can be relatively easy to get lost in the vast ocean of life, and we may not even realize anything is off until we are already lost at sea, adrift amongst the waves.
I work with couples and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship distress, phase of life issues, and loss of self. I also work with men on emotional tolerance, emotional expression, self-advocacy, crises of purpose, and gaining comfort with vulnerability. We all face our own unique challenges in our everyday lives. These challenges can range from inspiring to overwhelming, from motivating to diminishing, and anything in between. Sometimes it can be relatively easy to get lost in the vast ocean of life, and we may not even realize anything is off until we are already lost at sea, adrift amongst the waves.
(323) 641-4602 View (323) 641-4602
Photo of Ken Howard - Gay Therapy LA (Ken Howard, LCSW, CST), MSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gay Therapy LA (Ken Howard, LCSW, CST)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
Are you a gay man who is trying to reduce conflict in your relationship? Do you have concerns about sexual frequency or performance/satisfaction? Do you want help in how to grow your career/income, cope with workplace stress, gain self-confidence in sex and dating, or cope with a medical or psychiatric challenge (depression, anxiety, ADD, OCD, PTSD)? Support for healing from a traumatic experience (violent crime, illness, accident), or recovering from difficult past experiences in your Family of Origin or past relationships? Recover from substance issues? I help gay men with all of these issues and more in my long (32 years) career.
Are you a gay man who is trying to reduce conflict in your relationship? Do you have concerns about sexual frequency or performance/satisfaction? Do you want help in how to grow your career/income, cope with workplace stress, gain self-confidence in sex and dating, or cope with a medical or psychiatric challenge (depression, anxiety, ADD, OCD, PTSD)? Support for healing from a traumatic experience (violent crime, illness, accident), or recovering from difficult past experiences in your Family of Origin or past relationships? Recover from substance issues? I help gay men with all of these issues and more in my long (32 years) career.
(310) 905-8997 View (310) 905-8997
Photo of Mark Chaney-Gay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Chaney-Gay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
The day to day can often lead to feeling stressed, overwhelmed and anxious for many people. For those dealing with physical disabilities, mental health or life challenges, navigating all of this can be even more challenging. Maybe you are facing a new disability or a continued one. Maybe you are LGBTQ and facing relationship or other stress. Maybe life has become overwhelming. You can meet these challenges.
The day to day can often lead to feeling stressed, overwhelmed and anxious for many people. For those dealing with physical disabilities, mental health or life challenges, navigating all of this can be even more challenging. Maybe you are facing a new disability or a continued one. Maybe you are LGBTQ and facing relationship or other stress. Maybe life has become overwhelming. You can meet these challenges.
(323) 615-2538 View (323) 615-2538
Photo of Marcus Alexander, BBA, MS, LPCC, NCC
Marcus Alexander
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, BBA, MS, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069  (Online Only)
Does a basic discussion turn into an all day argument? Do you feel like you are in a relationship with a stranger? Relationships, regardless of what kind, are the responsibility of both parties involved. Each relationship has its own fingerprints and no two are the same. I help couples along with individuals identify and resolve the underlying cause of their conflict whether it’s current or historic.
Does a basic discussion turn into an all day argument? Do you feel like you are in a relationship with a stranger? Relationships, regardless of what kind, are the responsibility of both parties involved. Each relationship has its own fingerprints and no two are the same. I help couples along with individuals identify and resolve the underlying cause of their conflict whether it’s current or historic.
(619) 393-4498 View (619) 393-4498
Photo of Shelly-Ann M Collins Rawle, PhD, NCC, Psychologist
Shelly-Ann M Collins Rawle
Psychologist, PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046
No one ever said it (life, relationships, career, school) would be easy but should it be this hard? Taking the first step to explore therapy can be challenging but it can be helpful to obtain support during times of transition or difficulty. If you are still unsure, or even if you are familiar with the therapeutic process, meeting me and getting more information about how I work just takes one session, and a consultation costs you nothing.
No one ever said it (life, relationships, career, school) would be easy but should it be this hard? Taking the first step to explore therapy can be challenging but it can be helpful to obtain support during times of transition or difficulty. If you are still unsure, or even if you are familiar with the therapeutic process, meeting me and getting more information about how I work just takes one session, and a consultation costs you nothing.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Hollywood, CA

600+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in West Hollywood, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Relationship Issues
88% Depression
79% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
66% Grief
64% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

60% Aetna
51% Cigna and Evernorth
47% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in West Hollywood, CA see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

54% Female
44% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in West Hollywood?

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.