Therapists in Bellevue, WA

View neighborhoods in Bellevue
Photo of Lena Berg, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Lena Berg
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
I bring working knowledge and skill to helping you navigate difficult life transitions, navigate healthier relationships, workplace challenges, or questions of meaning and purpose. I welcome working with individuals thirteen years old and up and anyone in the LGBTIQA+ community.
I bring working knowledge and skill to helping you navigate difficult life transitions, navigate healthier relationships, workplace challenges, or questions of meaning and purpose. I welcome working with individuals thirteen years old and up and anyone in the LGBTIQA+ community.
(425) 689-7325 View (425) 689-7325
Photo of Alex A Gomez, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Alex A Gomez
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
I’m eager to help you find new ways to think about your struggles and to embrace your whole self so that you feel up to the challenges of life. I can assist you to develop the awareness to understand why you are stuck, where you became stuck and help you carefully imagine and explore pathways for moving forward, through the pain, struggle, and grief, to a more resilient, forgiving, and enlivened self.
I’m eager to help you find new ways to think about your struggles and to embrace your whole self so that you feel up to the challenges of life. I can assist you to develop the awareness to understand why you are stuck, where you became stuck and help you carefully imagine and explore pathways for moving forward, through the pain, struggle, and grief, to a more resilient, forgiving, and enlivened self.
(425) 272-6919 View (425) 272-6919
Photo of Carla Munger, Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Carla Munger
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98015  (Online Only)
You’ve got a ring on your finger and a date on your calendar, but you’re quickly realizing that wedding planning isn’t as blissful as you hoped. You’re overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, and exhausted. From decision fatigue to spotlight fright; family drama to bad bridesmaids; difficult vendors to tight budgets, and of course unpacking and letting go of the emotional baggage that you don’t want to carry into your marriage… engagement and wedding planning is an emotional maze. The truth is most brides feel tired, stressed, and often times isolated. Left untreated these feelings can develop into true anxiety, depression, and burnout.
You’ve got a ring on your finger and a date on your calendar, but you’re quickly realizing that wedding planning isn’t as blissful as you hoped. You’re overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, and exhausted. From decision fatigue to spotlight fright; family drama to bad bridesmaids; difficult vendors to tight budgets, and of course unpacking and letting go of the emotional baggage that you don’t want to carry into your marriage… engagement and wedding planning is an emotional maze. The truth is most brides feel tired, stressed, and often times isolated. Left untreated these feelings can develop into true anxiety, depression, and burnout.
(425) 541-7533 View (425) 541-7533
Photo of Jessica Butts in Bellevue, WA
Jessica Butts
MA, LLC, MBTI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98007
Now accepting new in person in Bellevue, Washington as well as online. I see individuals and couples. Are you struggling to understand why you are the way you are? I can help you to see it clearly and then provide tangible tools to get you tools to get to a new healed place. I help with family of origin issues, codependency, menopause, all relationship issues, and have experience with plant medicine. Seeing me is a little like seeing Gaby from Shrinking, I believe deeply in compassion while also telling it like it is. I am honored to do this important work with you.
Now accepting new in person in Bellevue, Washington as well as online. I see individuals and couples. Are you struggling to understand why you are the way you are? I can help you to see it clearly and then provide tangible tools to get you tools to get to a new healed place. I help with family of origin issues, codependency, menopause, all relationship issues, and have experience with plant medicine. Seeing me is a little like seeing Gaby from Shrinking, I believe deeply in compassion while also telling it like it is. I am honored to do this important work with you.
(425) 532-3167 View (425) 532-3167
Photo of Whitney Dickey, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Whitney Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008
I am an Individual and couples therapist, r at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. With a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Santa Barbara, and a license to practice in Washington State, I am dedicated to delivering trauma-informed therapeutic care. At the heart of my therapeutic practice is a recognition of the importance of each client's history, culture, beliefs, relationships, identities, and narrative. I am committed to building therapeutic relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and care, offering a safe and validating space for clients and their support networks.
I am an Individual and couples therapist, r at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. With a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Santa Barbara, and a license to practice in Washington State, I am dedicated to delivering trauma-informed therapeutic care. At the heart of my therapeutic practice is a recognition of the importance of each client's history, culture, beliefs, relationships, identities, and narrative. I am committed to building therapeutic relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and care, offering a safe and validating space for clients and their support networks.
(425) 292-1269 View (425) 292-1269
Photo of Ali Sokolow, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Ali Sokolow
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may simply not be living the most satisfying life. Or perhaps you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, which could be negatively impacting your relationships, your goals, or your general well-being. Life's challenges and obstacles are often difficult to overcome alone, but being able to cope and change behavior is possible with tools learned in counseling. Therapy can help to identify what is not working in your life, so that you can achieve your goals.
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may simply not be living the most satisfying life. Or perhaps you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, which could be negatively impacting your relationships, your goals, or your general well-being. Life's challenges and obstacles are often difficult to overcome alone, but being able to cope and change behavior is possible with tools learned in counseling. Therapy can help to identify what is not working in your life, so that you can achieve your goals.
(425) 318-7468 View (425) 318-7468
Photo of Jaclyn Watson, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Jaclyn Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am so glad you have decided to embark on this journey to live a fuller, happier, and purpose-filled life. I love working alongside clients to maximize their potential and help them find hope and healing for the many difficulties that come with life. My counseling approach integrates research supported techniques with your personal value system. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness.
I am so glad you have decided to embark on this journey to live a fuller, happier, and purpose-filled life. I love working alongside clients to maximize their potential and help them find hope and healing for the many difficulties that come with life. My counseling approach integrates research supported techniques with your personal value system. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness.
(253) 201-4069 View (253) 201-4069
Photo of Blair Schmautz UTurn Counseling, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Blair Schmautz UTurn Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State who received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University in 2005. I am also trained as a Sex Addiction Therapist through the Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals with an emphasis in treating sexual compulsivity and addiction. I specialize in helping clients find healing and growth from trauma, stress, difficult life changes, depression, anxiety, and I also currently work with those experiencing sexual addiction and their partners. I utilize various approaches to specifically design a treatment plan for your needs.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State who received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University in 2005. I am also trained as a Sex Addiction Therapist through the Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals with an emphasis in treating sexual compulsivity and addiction. I specialize in helping clients find healing and growth from trauma, stress, difficult life changes, depression, anxiety, and I also currently work with those experiencing sexual addiction and their partners. I utilize various approaches to specifically design a treatment plan for your needs.
(425) 979-7324 View (425) 979-7324
Photo of Shana Oconnor-Wolf, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Shana Oconnor-Wolf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I work with individuals, couples, parents, children and families experiencing a variety of issues, for example, general life stress, anxiety, OCD, emotional dysregulation, ADHD, ASD, parenting struggles, grief, religious/spiritual trauma. My approach is to create a collaborative safe space to express and find ways to feel better.
I work with individuals, couples, parents, children and families experiencing a variety of issues, for example, general life stress, anxiety, OCD, emotional dysregulation, ADHD, ASD, parenting struggles, grief, religious/spiritual trauma. My approach is to create a collaborative safe space to express and find ways to feel better.
(425) 541-1974 View (425) 541-1974
Photo of Sierra Beckers, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Sierra Beckers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
My ideal client knows they are suffering but may not know why. They know they need help but may not know what that will look like. They are an active participant in their own recovery and recognize that "active" can look different and feel different week to week. They are open to building trust, hearing feedback and ready to engage and be challenged. It is my priority to help you feel comfortable, supported, and heard. I have 10 years experience of treating a wide range of severe diagnoses, from major depression and anxiety to general stressors and day-to-day problems.
My ideal client knows they are suffering but may not know why. They know they need help but may not know what that will look like. They are an active participant in their own recovery and recognize that "active" can look different and feel different week to week. They are open to building trust, hearing feedback and ready to engage and be challenged. It is my priority to help you feel comfortable, supported, and heard. I have 10 years experience of treating a wide range of severe diagnoses, from major depression and anxiety to general stressors and day-to-day problems.
(206) 203-4211 View (206) 203-4211
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Traverse Therapy Services
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
We are currently accepting clients in-person and via telehealth. My name is Julie Bullock and I work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, work issues and chronic illness. Through our connection you will find relief from the bondage of isolation and of habits that no longer serve you. The opportunity for healing is in the telling so together we will carve a safe space for you to tell your story. Through time linked, measurable goals you will be able to see your growth and be proud of who you are becoming.
We are currently accepting clients in-person and via telehealth. My name is Julie Bullock and I work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, work issues and chronic illness. Through our connection you will find relief from the bondage of isolation and of habits that no longer serve you. The opportunity for healing is in the telling so together we will carve a safe space for you to tell your story. Through time linked, measurable goals you will be able to see your growth and be proud of who you are becoming.
(425) 264-8385 View (425) 264-8385
Photo of Marianne Marlow, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Marianne Marlow
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDWF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98007
Waitlist for new clients
For over 22 years, I have specialized in working with high performers with a special niche in first responder relationships. As a relationship therapist and coach, I listen and give you the tools to overcome limiting beliefs that keep you from achieving your most important relationship goals. Through open and honest communication, I challenge people to acknowledge each other’s intrinsic wholeness and worth to cultivate strong, genuine connections. My offerings use innovative relationship building techniques built on the latest research and scholarship to train couples how to have a thriving relationship.
For over 22 years, I have specialized in working with high performers with a special niche in first responder relationships. As a relationship therapist and coach, I listen and give you the tools to overcome limiting beliefs that keep you from achieving your most important relationship goals. Through open and honest communication, I challenge people to acknowledge each other’s intrinsic wholeness and worth to cultivate strong, genuine connections. My offerings use innovative relationship building techniques built on the latest research and scholarship to train couples how to have a thriving relationship.
(425) 529-5781 View (425) 529-5781
Photo of Nancy Tung RN - Practice for Systemic Wellness in Bellevue, WA
Nancy Tung RN - Practice for Systemic Wellness
RN
Not Verified Not Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
Are working on the same issues and going in circles? Are you in transition and feeling lost? Are you blaming yourself for not been able to reach your goals? Do you want to have clarity and confidence to move forward? Do you want someone who is an experienced coach to guide you through your life journey with ease and grace? If any of these statements resonate with you, contact Nancy!
Are working on the same issues and going in circles? Are you in transition and feeling lost? Are you blaming yourself for not been able to reach your goals? Do you want to have clarity and confidence to move forward? Do you want someone who is an experienced coach to guide you through your life journey with ease and grace? If any of these statements resonate with you, contact Nancy!
(360) 641-7144 View (360) 641-7144
Photo of Morgan Weiss, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Morgan Weiss
Counselor, MA, LMHCA , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98007  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy for college students, young adults, and adults in Washington State (telehealth). I work with individuals who are experiencing life transitions, burnout, anxiety, depression, day-to-day stress, relationship difficulties, and those who are family planning. My goal is to create a calm, grounding, and safe environment for you to feel comfortable while working toward changing behavioral patterns that are inhibiting you from living your best life. I will help explore and heal the parts of you that may feel unaligned, and work to improve your relationship with yourself and the world around you.
I provide individual therapy for college students, young adults, and adults in Washington State (telehealth). I work with individuals who are experiencing life transitions, burnout, anxiety, depression, day-to-day stress, relationship difficulties, and those who are family planning. My goal is to create a calm, grounding, and safe environment for you to feel comfortable while working toward changing behavioral patterns that are inhibiting you from living your best life. I will help explore and heal the parts of you that may feel unaligned, and work to improve your relationship with yourself and the world around you.
(425) 470-5589 View (425) 470-5589
Photo of Gerri Tay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Gerri Tay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
Something does not feel right, you are having a hard time. You’re stuck, conflicted, and can't decide what to do. Or maybe a part of you thinks one way and another part feels differently. You feel disconnected and alone. Others have tried to help, but you feel like they don't really get you and want you to "just get over it". Shame and frustration set in. Maybe you have a sense that some trauma from your past is blocking you from living the life that you want. You want to get unstuck, have a clear roadmap to know what to do next and how to go about healing. You want to experience real joy and connection again.
Something does not feel right, you are having a hard time. You’re stuck, conflicted, and can't decide what to do. Or maybe a part of you thinks one way and another part feels differently. You feel disconnected and alone. Others have tried to help, but you feel like they don't really get you and want you to "just get over it". Shame and frustration set in. Maybe you have a sense that some trauma from your past is blocking you from living the life that you want. You want to get unstuck, have a clear roadmap to know what to do next and how to go about healing. You want to experience real joy and connection again.
(425) 448-4614 View (425) 448-4614
M.Pinedo,PhD & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT, SOTP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am dedicated to providing supportive, healthy, caring services for people in pain. I understand that betrayal, trauma, abandonment create a deep emotional wound that is frightening to explore and distressing to consider. It is possible to heal by finding you own integrity and peace. I believe that the true aim of healing is to assist the client in bringing harmony to their soul, mind, and body. Servicios por gente que hablan Espanol que preferian obtener ayuda de personas Latinas. Creo que cual quier persona deben de ser tradados con respeto.
I am dedicated to providing supportive, healthy, caring services for people in pain. I understand that betrayal, trauma, abandonment create a deep emotional wound that is frightening to explore and distressing to consider. It is possible to heal by finding you own integrity and peace. I believe that the true aim of healing is to assist the client in bringing harmony to their soul, mind, and body. Servicios por gente que hablan Espanol que preferian obtener ayuda de personas Latinas. Creo que cual quier persona deben de ser tradados con respeto.
(425) 610-9971 View (425) 610-9971
Photo of Paula MacCormac, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Paula MacCormac
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe it is a great privilege and honor to be a part of the journey through an individual's most challenging and rewarding life experiences. It takes a great deal of courage to seek therapy and look inward to face the parts of ourselves we may be uncomfortable admitting exist. Within every individual is the power to heal themselves and working collaboratively in therapy will help facilitate that realization. My approach focuses on building resilience and hope through a blend of modalities including but not limited to Gestalt, attachment-based, emotion-focused, and existential therapy.
As a therapist, I believe it is a great privilege and honor to be a part of the journey through an individual's most challenging and rewarding life experiences. It takes a great deal of courage to seek therapy and look inward to face the parts of ourselves we may be uncomfortable admitting exist. Within every individual is the power to heal themselves and working collaboratively in therapy will help facilitate that realization. My approach focuses on building resilience and hope through a blend of modalities including but not limited to Gestalt, attachment-based, emotion-focused, and existential therapy.
(425) 276-7516 View (425) 276-7516
Photo of Brian Humphries, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brian Humphries
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Are you tired of breaking commitments to yourself and others about stopping your sexual addiction or compulsive porn use? Have you hurt your partner from infidelity or sexual betrayal and desperately want to save your relationship? If your sexual behavior feels out of control and you're unable to stop, despite the havoc it's creating in your life, I can help you. Together we can create a plan to stop the destructive cycle you are stuck in, target feelings of shame and hopelessness and regain control over your life. Let me show you how to live within your values and how to show up authentically to repair trust with your partner.
Are you tired of breaking commitments to yourself and others about stopping your sexual addiction or compulsive porn use? Have you hurt your partner from infidelity or sexual betrayal and desperately want to save your relationship? If your sexual behavior feels out of control and you're unable to stop, despite the havoc it's creating in your life, I can help you. Together we can create a plan to stop the destructive cycle you are stuck in, target feelings of shame and hopelessness and regain control over your life. Let me show you how to live within your values and how to show up authentically to repair trust with your partner.
(425) 292-1528 View (425) 292-1528
Photo of Linh Johanna Truong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Linh Johanna Truong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MedFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
I am an Asian family therapist, owner of Re-Story Child and Family Therapy. My clients regardless of ages have their own stories that shape how they view themselves, relate to the world and guide their daily decisions about life. These stories carrying family history, life crisis or transitions, illnesses, relationship or vocational stress, caring for loved ones with special needs and so on, often show up in conversations in my practice. My clients find it therapeutic discussing these narratives and where suitable, "Re-Story" them to allow new perspectives to emerge and to resolve matters initially described as stuck or unfinished.
I am an Asian family therapist, owner of Re-Story Child and Family Therapy. My clients regardless of ages have their own stories that shape how they view themselves, relate to the world and guide their daily decisions about life. These stories carrying family history, life crisis or transitions, illnesses, relationship or vocational stress, caring for loved ones with special needs and so on, often show up in conversations in my practice. My clients find it therapeutic discussing these narratives and where suitable, "Re-Story" them to allow new perspectives to emerge and to resolve matters initially described as stuck or unfinished.
(425) 321-5998 x800 View (425) 321-5998 x800
Photo of Elizabeth L Falls, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Elizabeth L Falls
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, APTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Waitlist for new clients
We all long for intimate human relationship but for many of us, we can't seem to shake this dull aching loneliness that resides in the pit of our souls. However, the inherent human need for meaningful relationships has remained elusive. Often, it feels easier to isolate than to face the intolerable reality. We have become experts at stifling our needs and desires. But when we enter into the presence of another, when we begin to tell our stories of heartache and pain, healing begins. We need a witness to our grief, someone to join alongside us as we lament. Above all, we need a place to experience belonging.
We all long for intimate human relationship but for many of us, we can't seem to shake this dull aching loneliness that resides in the pit of our souls. However, the inherent human need for meaningful relationships has remained elusive. Often, it feels easier to isolate than to face the intolerable reality. We have become experts at stifling our needs and desires. But when we enter into the presence of another, when we begin to tell our stories of heartache and pain, healing begins. We need a witness to our grief, someone to join alongside us as we lament. Above all, we need a place to experience belonging.
(425) 437-2351 View (425) 437-2351

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera
55% Regence
52% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.