Therapists in Barry County, MO

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Photo of Amy J Cole, DBH, LPC, Counselor
Amy J Cole
Counselor, DBH, LPC
Verified Verified
Cassville, MO 65625
I focus on helping my clients overcome the barriers that keep them from reaching their healthiest person. I get to know my clients inside out so I may provide the most appropriate counseling sessions and resources to assist in them in identifying and coping with their own individual needs. I assist my clients in digging deep within themselves and finding their own abilities to overcome obstacles, develop self-worth, and move towards their healthiest person.
I focus on helping my clients overcome the barriers that keep them from reaching their healthiest person. I get to know my clients inside out so I may provide the most appropriate counseling sessions and resources to assist in them in identifying and coping with their own individual needs. I assist my clients in digging deep within themselves and finding their own abilities to overcome obstacles, develop self-worth, and move towards their healthiest person.
(417) 265-5197 View (417) 265-5197
Photo of Janice Bushong, LPC, Counselor
Janice Bushong
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Monett, MO 65708  (Online Only)
My name is Janice Bushong, I am a Licensed Professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I have a history of working in substance abuse, individual therapy, group therapy and couple's therapy. Types of clients I most typically work with are substance abuse, anxiety disorder, depression, anger management and bipolar disorder. I very much enjoy working with the addictive personality group of clients,
My name is Janice Bushong, I am a Licensed Professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I have a history of working in substance abuse, individual therapy, group therapy and couple's therapy. Types of clients I most typically work with are substance abuse, anxiety disorder, depression, anger management and bipolar disorder. I very much enjoy working with the addictive personality group of clients,
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Rebecca Deason, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Deason
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cassville, MO 65625
Imagine a place where your emotions find understanding and your struggles meet compassion. Therapy can be that place. Your journey is completely your own, and I'm here to honor and respect every part of it. In our therapeutic space, there's no judgment—just a genuine understanding of what you've been through and how you feel. Your thoughts and feelings are valued, and will play a crucial role in our sessions. We'll explore the opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation together, creating a space where your journey is met with understanding, support, and the possibility of meaningful change.
Imagine a place where your emotions find understanding and your struggles meet compassion. Therapy can be that place. Your journey is completely your own, and I'm here to honor and respect every part of it. In our therapeutic space, there's no judgment—just a genuine understanding of what you've been through and how you feel. Your thoughts and feelings are valued, and will play a crucial role in our sessions. We'll explore the opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation together, creating a space where your journey is met with understanding, support, and the possibility of meaningful change.
(573) 763-2360 View (573) 763-2360
Photo of Leina L Hoyt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leina L Hoyt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monett, MO 65708
I have been licensed as an LMFT in California since 2005. I am also licensed in Missouri and Utah. I founded a non-profit community mental health agency and am a co-founder of Mending Trauma, a holistic mental health company that specializes in trauma recovery using a whole-health approach via a telehealth platform. My specialty is trauma and I have worked with mass trauma, individual trauma, PTSD, cPTSD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain and other diagnosis that have trauma as a common underlying condition.
I have been licensed as an LMFT in California since 2005. I am also licensed in Missouri and Utah. I founded a non-profit community mental health agency and am a co-founder of Mending Trauma, a holistic mental health company that specializes in trauma recovery using a whole-health approach via a telehealth platform. My specialty is trauma and I have worked with mass trauma, individual trauma, PTSD, cPTSD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain and other diagnosis that have trauma as a common underlying condition.
(916) 226-4545 View (916) 226-4545
Photo of Stacia Turner, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacia Turner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, MO 64874
I am a clinical graduate intern counselor under the supervision of Crystal Joseph, (LCPC, LPC, ACS). I have training and experience working with pregnant and postpartum individuals, neurodivergent people of color, college students, and those experiencing grief. I provide thoughtful insights and creative problem-solving strategies. My counseling approach is social justice oriented. If you're ready to take a new approach to learning about yourself and reimagining how to address your issues and challenges, I am eager to connect with you.
I am a clinical graduate intern counselor under the supervision of Crystal Joseph, (LCPC, LPC, ACS). I have training and experience working with pregnant and postpartum individuals, neurodivergent people of color, college students, and those experiencing grief. I provide thoughtful insights and creative problem-solving strategies. My counseling approach is social justice oriented. If you're ready to take a new approach to learning about yourself and reimagining how to address your issues and challenges, I am eager to connect with you.
(240) 698-3536 View (240) 698-3536
Photo of Karla Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monett, MO 65708
My name is Karla Smith and I am the owner of Moving Forward Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have experience working with a variety of mental health diagnosis with children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about helping patients explore healthier ways to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships to live a mindful and authentic life.
My name is Karla Smith and I am the owner of Moving Forward Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have experience working with a variety of mental health diagnosis with children, adolescents, and adults. I am passionate about helping patients explore healthier ways to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships to live a mindful and authentic life.
(417) 759-5879 View (417) 759-5879
Photo of Audra Bell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audra Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cassville, MO 65625  (Online Only)
My name is Audra Bell and I am a Psychotherapist certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with clients throughout Missouri via telehealth. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or other life stressors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Theory. I find it most helpful to start where the client feels comfortable and work right away towards helping clients find progress and relief quickly.
My name is Audra Bell and I am a Psychotherapist certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with clients throughout Missouri via telehealth. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or other life stressors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Theory. I find it most helpful to start where the client feels comfortable and work right away towards helping clients find progress and relief quickly.
(636) 303-1667 View (636) 303-1667
Photo of Kelly Dundon, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Dundon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monett, MO 65708  (Online Only)
A cornerstone of my approach is trauma-informed care, where I create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore and address past traumas. Whether it's navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, or working through challenges related to personality disorders, I'm dedicated to helping clients reclaim their agency and resilience. I enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQAI+ -identifying folks, and women or femme-identifying individuals. My approach is grounded in authenticity, empathy, and empowerment. Together with my clients, we embark on a collaborative journey towards self-awareness, growth, and resilience.
A cornerstone of my approach is trauma-informed care, where I create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore and address past traumas. Whether it's navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, or working through challenges related to personality disorders, I'm dedicated to helping clients reclaim their agency and resilience. I enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQAI+ -identifying folks, and women or femme-identifying individuals. My approach is grounded in authenticity, empathy, and empowerment. Together with my clients, we embark on a collaborative journey towards self-awareness, growth, and resilience.
(479) 239-8759 View (479) 239-8759
Photo of Keith Weaver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keith Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shell Knob, MO 65747  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping people improve their lives, achieve more of a meaningful life, and realize their inherent potential and highest goals. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Missouri. I primarily work with young adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also work with a lot of business professionals working with balancing careers and businesses. I am an empathetic and compassionate counselor, that works to motivate clients to work on their improvement.
I am dedicated to helping people improve their lives, achieve more of a meaningful life, and realize their inherent potential and highest goals. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Missouri. I primarily work with young adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also work with a lot of business professionals working with balancing careers and businesses. I am an empathetic and compassionate counselor, that works to motivate clients to work on their improvement.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Melanie Shands, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Shands
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Purdy, MO 65734  (Online Only)
My name is Melanie Shands, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am a Registered Play Therapist and EMDRIA certified EMDR Therapist. I work with youth and adults in Missouri to help them reach their goals and improve their mental health. I believe every person has the ability to heal and improve their mental health when provided with a therapist who is invested in their success and takes the time to teach skills and process feelings, thoughts, and life events. I enjoy working with children and teens, as well as adults in all stages of life.
My name is Melanie Shands, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am a Registered Play Therapist and EMDRIA certified EMDR Therapist. I work with youth and adults in Missouri to help them reach their goals and improve their mental health. I believe every person has the ability to heal and improve their mental health when provided with a therapist who is invested in their success and takes the time to teach skills and process feelings, thoughts, and life events. I enjoy working with children and teens, as well as adults in all stages of life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Silvia Espinosa Ed.s, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Silvia Espinosa Ed.s
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monett, MO 65708
Have you been suffering in silence or struggling with relationships? Know that hope is near. We all have experienced pain that if left untreated, can keep us trapped, inhibiting our ability to enjoy life. There are three main areas that are dear to my heart: play therapy for children who’ve gone through adverse life experiences, marriage counseling for couples experiencing difficulty, and survivors of betrayal trauma: psychological/emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Know that it will take time to heal, courage to face the reality of your experience, and a steady commitment to your own healing.
Have you been suffering in silence or struggling with relationships? Know that hope is near. We all have experienced pain that if left untreated, can keep us trapped, inhibiting our ability to enjoy life. There are three main areas that are dear to my heart: play therapy for children who’ve gone through adverse life experiences, marriage counseling for couples experiencing difficulty, and survivors of betrayal trauma: psychological/emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Know that it will take time to heal, courage to face the reality of your experience, and a steady commitment to your own healing.
(417) 453-2767 View (417) 453-2767

Online Therapists

Photo of Adrian Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrian Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807  (Online Only)
Life shouldn’t be about surviving, it should be about enjoying every moment you were given. I want to help you feel like you again. I also believe therapy can help you accomplish this. Therapy with me will be a collaborative process where we are working together to improve the overall quality of your life.
Life shouldn’t be about surviving, it should be about enjoying every moment you were given. I want to help you feel like you again. I also believe therapy can help you accomplish this. Therapy with me will be a collaborative process where we are working together to improve the overall quality of your life.
(417) 759-5374 View (417) 759-5374
Photo of Nikki Pinkley, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikki Pinkley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Branson, MO 65616
Drawing on my own life challenges and supported by specialized training in EMDR for trauma, as well as certification as a Hope Restored Marriage therapist focused on improving communication and conflict resolution skills, I bring a unique perspective and deep empathy. Now, as a seasoned counselor in Branson, MO, I leverage this personal understanding to guide clients through their struggles with relationships, self-growth, and overcoming life's unexpected turns. With expertise in adolescent and adult therapy, as well as marriage counseling, I help clients restore and improve their emotional health and relationships.
Drawing on my own life challenges and supported by specialized training in EMDR for trauma, as well as certification as a Hope Restored Marriage therapist focused on improving communication and conflict resolution skills, I bring a unique perspective and deep empathy. Now, as a seasoned counselor in Branson, MO, I leverage this personal understanding to guide clients through their struggles with relationships, self-growth, and overcoming life's unexpected turns. With expertise in adolescent and adult therapy, as well as marriage counseling, I help clients restore and improve their emotional health and relationships.
(417) 203-2057 View (417) 203-2057
Photo of Beverly Vanover, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beverly Vanover
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Branson, MO 65616  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). After completing training in 2013 at John Brown University, Siloam Springs, Arkansas, I began practicing counseling. In addition to caring for patients through MDLIVE, I have experience practicing in Inpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Partial Hospitalization, School, Hospital, and private practice as a Board Certified Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH). My strengths are in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychoeducation about the polyvagal theory and attachment theory.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). After completing training in 2013 at John Brown University, Siloam Springs, Arkansas, I began practicing counseling. In addition to caring for patients through MDLIVE, I have experience practicing in Inpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Partial Hospitalization, School, Hospital, and private practice as a Board Certified Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH). My strengths are in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychoeducation about the polyvagal theory and attachment theory.
(417) 962-8269 View (417) 962-8269
Photo of Robert E Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert E Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65807  (Online Only)
There are several reasons why people feel stuck in their life story that prevent them from growing into the person they want to become... A past that continues to return to the present, patterns that are unbreakable alone, major life changes, uncontrollable circumstances, feelings of shame - the list goes on. I love working with clients looking to improve themselves, their relationships, and learn to face their struggles.
There are several reasons why people feel stuck in their life story that prevent them from growing into the person they want to become... A past that continues to return to the present, patterns that are unbreakable alone, major life changes, uncontrollable circumstances, feelings of shame - the list goes on. I love working with clients looking to improve themselves, their relationships, and learn to face their struggles.
(417) 222-2788 View (417) 222-2788
Photo of Allison Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Nixa, MO 65714  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Allison Davis. I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri. I have worked extensively with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, parenting and difficulties in relationships. As a therapist, I have seen therapy work for so many clients in so many different situations. I am ready to be there for you and will work together with you to find relief, healing, hope and support. I draw upon research-validated methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and others to customize treatment for each client's individual values, strengths and needs.
Hi! My name is Allison Davis. I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri. I have worked extensively with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, parenting and difficulties in relationships. As a therapist, I have seen therapy work for so many clients in so many different situations. I am ready to be there for you and will work together with you to find relief, healing, hope and support. I draw upon research-validated methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and others to customize treatment for each client's individual values, strengths and needs.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Alexia Thompson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexia Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
If you're a woman or non-binary individual struggling with low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, you're not alone. You might want to rebuild your self-worth and find emotional stability by understanding your past and present self. Your goals may include building self-esteem, developing coping skills, and learning about your mental health. You're motivated to heal from trauma and cultivate self-compassion, aiming for a fulfilling life. Together, we can address these needs and help you create a balanced, resilient sense of self with practical strategies for growth.
If you're a woman or non-binary individual struggling with low self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, you're not alone. You might want to rebuild your self-worth and find emotional stability by understanding your past and present self. Your goals may include building self-esteem, developing coping skills, and learning about your mental health. You're motivated to heal from trauma and cultivate self-compassion, aiming for a fulfilling life. Together, we can address these needs and help you create a balanced, resilient sense of self with practical strategies for growth.
(417) 541-2824 View (417) 541-2824
Photo of Peggy Bonas, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peggy Bonas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Nixa, MO 65714  (Online Only)
Peggy has helped clients through traumas and addictions. These struggles can also affect people in ways that present as anxiety, anger, depression, dysregulated emotions, grief, demotivation, lack of direction, isolation, and fear of going out of the home. Peggy has extensive training in therapy modalities that have shown to be effective in helping with all of these struggles. Peggy’s unique insight provides a bridge for clients to step out of the past wounds, see new solutions and adopt new behaviors that allow for living their best lives. Peggy provides a confidential client-specific approach that is respectful and goal-oriented.
Peggy has helped clients through traumas and addictions. These struggles can also affect people in ways that present as anxiety, anger, depression, dysregulated emotions, grief, demotivation, lack of direction, isolation, and fear of going out of the home. Peggy has extensive training in therapy modalities that have shown to be effective in helping with all of these struggles. Peggy’s unique insight provides a bridge for clients to step out of the past wounds, see new solutions and adopt new behaviors that allow for living their best lives. Peggy provides a confidential client-specific approach that is respectful and goal-oriented.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Brooke Nicole Watson, MS, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brooke Nicole Watson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Do you struggle to connect and communicate with your partner which affects the ability to live the life you desire? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and exhausted by the thought there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you wonder if your relationship could be better? Now more than ever, many couples, are feeling hopeless about attaining the relationship they desire. Real solutions, focused treatments, and hope for the future are what I work to provide for each and every client. No two people have walked the same path in life. I will feel honored to hear your story.
Do you struggle to connect and communicate with your partner which affects the ability to live the life you desire? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and exhausted by the thought there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you wonder if your relationship could be better? Now more than ever, many couples, are feeling hopeless about attaining the relationship they desire. Real solutions, focused treatments, and hope for the future are what I work to provide for each and every client. No two people have walked the same path in life. I will feel honored to hear your story.
(417) 557-3374 View (417) 557-3374
Photo of Margaret Skidmore, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Skidmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
I believe in a confidential, non-judgmental, relationship-centered counseling environment where individuals, families, and couples can openly and safely discuss their thoughts and feelings. Each client is treated with respect and supported to gain greater self-understanding and self-awareness. The client is at the center of therapy and determines the direction of therapy. I present different perspectives and ideas and help the client identify and develop their own ways to resolve blocks to personal growth and to improve communication and the relationships in their lives.
I believe in a confidential, non-judgmental, relationship-centered counseling environment where individuals, families, and couples can openly and safely discuss their thoughts and feelings. Each client is treated with respect and supported to gain greater self-understanding and self-awareness. The client is at the center of therapy and determines the direction of therapy. I present different perspectives and ideas and help the client identify and develop their own ways to resolve blocks to personal growth and to improve communication and the relationships in their lives.
(417) 840-3177 View (417) 840-3177

See more therapy options for Barry County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Barry County, MO

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Barry County, MO who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
82% Depression
64% Trauma and PTSD
55% Relationship Issues
55% Family Conflict
45% Life Coaching
45% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
70% Aetna
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Barry County, MO see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
11% Male
11% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Barry County?

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.