Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA

Photo of Samme Newman, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Samme Newman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99037  (Online Only)
Life can be hard but what’s even harder is trying to figure it out on your own. Trauma, depression, anxiety among other difficulties can be challenging to understand and cause chaos to our lives and relationships. We want to feel better, but feel as if everything and everyone is letting us down. What we want most is to feel strong and free from the burdens of life. Every person’s struggle is unique, but so are their strengths. My goal as a counselor is to help clients find their unique strengths and freedom from pain. I place great importance on assisting clients in finding the tools to succeed and find peace in their world.
Life can be hard but what’s even harder is trying to figure it out on your own. Trauma, depression, anxiety among other difficulties can be challenging to understand and cause chaos to our lives and relationships. We want to feel better, but feel as if everything and everyone is letting us down. What we want most is to feel strong and free from the burdens of life. Every person’s struggle is unique, but so are their strengths. My goal as a counselor is to help clients find their unique strengths and freedom from pain. I place great importance on assisting clients in finding the tools to succeed and find peace in their world.
(509) 402-1271 View (509) 402-1271
Photo of Kathleen D Roberts, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Kathleen D Roberts
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
I am a licensed mental health counselor and certified EMDR clinician. My approach is holistic which views the body, mind and spirit as interconnected. I help people to interact in more authentic ways in order to derive meaning and purpose from life, and to have more positive interactions with others. By examining patterns and habits that keep you stuck, you can increase your options and flexibility in your responses to life.
I am a licensed mental health counselor and certified EMDR clinician. My approach is holistic which views the body, mind and spirit as interconnected. I help people to interact in more authentic ways in order to derive meaning and purpose from life, and to have more positive interactions with others. By examining patterns and habits that keep you stuck, you can increase your options and flexibility in your responses to life.
(509) 571-2496 View (509) 571-2496
Photo of Rachel E Werner, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Rachel E Werner
Counselor, MS, MHP, LMHCA, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Sometimes, life can be stressful, and we don't always know how to handle it. Many of us have also encountered past hardships or traumatic events that feel impossible to move on from. If that is something you relate with, I can help. Using a client-centered approach, I provide a place where you can share about your struggles and learn coping skills in order to overcome the stress you might be facing. If you are having relationship problems, dealing with anger, feeling anxious, depressed, or having a difficult time managing past trauma, I want to provide a non-judgmental and safe space where you can process through your experience.
Sometimes, life can be stressful, and we don't always know how to handle it. Many of us have also encountered past hardships or traumatic events that feel impossible to move on from. If that is something you relate with, I can help. Using a client-centered approach, I provide a place where you can share about your struggles and learn coping skills in order to overcome the stress you might be facing. If you are having relationship problems, dealing with anger, feeling anxious, depressed, or having a difficult time managing past trauma, I want to provide a non-judgmental and safe space where you can process through your experience.
(509) 685-3201 View (509) 685-3201
Photo of Jordyn Claire Kuttner, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Spokane Valley, WA
Jordyn Claire Kuttner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate; drawing from various therapeutic models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and using elements from DBT, CPT, Play-Therapy, and IFS, I tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, sexual assault/childhood sexual assault survivors, and complex PTSD. Gottman Institute Level 2 Certified therapist and I'm trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) core skills. Furthermore, my ongoing training in EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate; drawing from various therapeutic models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and using elements from DBT, CPT, Play-Therapy, and IFS, I tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, sexual assault/childhood sexual assault survivors, and complex PTSD. Gottman Institute Level 2 Certified therapist and I'm trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) core skills. Furthermore, my ongoing training in EMDR.
(509) 236-8247 View (509) 236-8247
Photo of Mikayla Logue, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Mikayla Logue
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Life can be beautiful, challenging, inspiring, overwhelming, everything in between. Through life’s challenges, I believe there are opportunities for growth and healing through self-compassion, flexibility, and courage. As a counselor, I strive to step in and walk with you, wherever you are in your journey. Just as life is unique to the individual, the counseling journey is also personal to you. believe through exploring past patterns and creating flexibility to lean into the discomfort. Together we can dismantle disenfranchising stories and replace them with new and empowering stories that are aligned with your personal values.
Life can be beautiful, challenging, inspiring, overwhelming, everything in between. Through life’s challenges, I believe there are opportunities for growth and healing through self-compassion, flexibility, and courage. As a counselor, I strive to step in and walk with you, wherever you are in your journey. Just as life is unique to the individual, the counseling journey is also personal to you. believe through exploring past patterns and creating flexibility to lean into the discomfort. Together we can dismantle disenfranchising stories and replace them with new and empowering stories that are aligned with your personal values.
(509) 286-2310 x07 View (509) 286-2310 x07
Photo of Rhonda DelCarlo, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Rhonda DelCarlo
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99212  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt misunderstood? Have you tried to create relationships that are supportive and don't know why it's not working? Do you have dreams you want to tap into, but are afraid to step outside your comfort zone? As a therapist, I strive to empower individuals to find and develop their authentic path. I want to work with you to find the obstacles in your way so we can work together to help you achieve your goals. I strive to help you create a balance between work and play, to assist with coping skills and self-soothing techniques and help you create self-care for your busy life.
Have you ever felt misunderstood? Have you tried to create relationships that are supportive and don't know why it's not working? Do you have dreams you want to tap into, but are afraid to step outside your comfort zone? As a therapist, I strive to empower individuals to find and develop their authentic path. I want to work with you to find the obstacles in your way so we can work together to help you achieve your goals. I strive to help you create a balance between work and play, to assist with coping skills and self-soothing techniques and help you create self-care for your busy life.
(509) 587-1130 View (509) 587-1130
Photo of Brad Kubat Riverside Therapy Center, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Brad Kubat Riverside Therapy Center
Counselor, LMHC, LSUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
We are accepting new patients. My name is Bradley Kubat and I specialize in helping heal from trauma, whether that be from childhood, adolescent, or adult trauma. I am an army combat veteran which has given me a deep understanding of the active military and veteran experience. I have vast experience in multiple areas of life that can be utilized to help others. The ideal client would come to therapy to heal, move forward and grow to their full potential.
We are accepting new patients. My name is Bradley Kubat and I specialize in helping heal from trauma, whether that be from childhood, adolescent, or adult trauma. I am an army combat veteran which has given me a deep understanding of the active military and veteran experience. I have vast experience in multiple areas of life that can be utilized to help others. The ideal client would come to therapy to heal, move forward and grow to their full potential.
(509) 213-0183 View (509) 213-0183
Photo of Cindy Sahagun, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Cindy Sahagun
Counselor, LMHC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99037  (Online Only)
Hello there! I am passionate about intersectionality sensitivity and inclusivity and emphasize the importance of whole-person wellness. Humans are complex beings with emotional, physical, spiritual, and cultural needs with unique experiences. I find it important to incorporate a holistic understanding and collaborative approach to treatment to foster whole-person wellness. I am committed to holding a safe space for individuals to be their true authentic selves and foster unconditional positive regard in the therapeutic relationship.
Hello there! I am passionate about intersectionality sensitivity and inclusivity and emphasize the importance of whole-person wellness. Humans are complex beings with emotional, physical, spiritual, and cultural needs with unique experiences. I find it important to incorporate a holistic understanding and collaborative approach to treatment to foster whole-person wellness. I am committed to holding a safe space for individuals to be their true authentic selves and foster unconditional positive regard in the therapeutic relationship.
(509) 581-2550 View (509) 581-2550
Photo of Maggie Inge, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Maggie Inge
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Maggie has experience working with all ages from toddlers to adults. She has spent time working in private practice, a community mental health agency and in an inpatient drug and alcohol facility providing counseling and group therapy in the Spokane area. Maggie believes that counseling can be used in a variety of ways to help clients and their families utilize strengths, accomplish goals, gain empowerment, as well as achieve growth and positive change. Maggie views her counselor role as a guide for clients to assist them in accomplishing a positive outcome from treatment.
Maggie has experience working with all ages from toddlers to adults. She has spent time working in private practice, a community mental health agency and in an inpatient drug and alcohol facility providing counseling and group therapy in the Spokane area. Maggie believes that counseling can be used in a variety of ways to help clients and their families utilize strengths, accomplish goals, gain empowerment, as well as achieve growth and positive change. Maggie views her counselor role as a guide for clients to assist them in accomplishing a positive outcome from treatment.
(509) 646-7718 View (509) 646-7718
Photo of Ben Mandel, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Ben Mandel
Counselor, MC61310
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Counseling is a wonderful step toward desired change, and it can also be a bit daunting at first. That's why I take time to form the therapeutic relationship at a pace that is comfortable for you. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other various presenting problems. I am especially passionate about helping clients with relationship issues. We often engage in patterns that leave us feeling isolated or frustrated in our relationships. Learning new ways to tune into ourselves and our partner can help ease feelings of distress and improve connectedness.
Counseling is a wonderful step toward desired change, and it can also be a bit daunting at first. That's why I take time to form the therapeutic relationship at a pace that is comfortable for you. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other various presenting problems. I am especially passionate about helping clients with relationship issues. We often engage in patterns that leave us feeling isolated or frustrated in our relationships. Learning new ways to tune into ourselves and our partner can help ease feelings of distress and improve connectedness.
(509) 204-9782 View (509) 204-9782
Photo of (Not Accepting New Clients) Srae Christensen, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
(Not Accepting New Clients) Srae Christensen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe each of us has an innate desire to belong, to love, to be loved, and to find self-fulfillment — to reach our potential. Sometimes we are faced with challenges such as those brought about by anxiety or depression which can be distressing. My goal is to help my clients learn how to address and cope with stressors that may be blocking their growth and well-being. Through a person-centered counseling approach using trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, I help my clients find ways to adjust their feelings and behaviors to improve self-awareness and to work toward self-directed change.
I believe each of us has an innate desire to belong, to love, to be loved, and to find self-fulfillment — to reach our potential. Sometimes we are faced with challenges such as those brought about by anxiety or depression which can be distressing. My goal is to help my clients learn how to address and cope with stressors that may be blocking their growth and well-being. Through a person-centered counseling approach using trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, I help my clients find ways to adjust their feelings and behaviors to improve self-awareness and to work toward self-directed change.
(509) 233-4386 View (509) 233-4386
Photo of Ally Spangler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Spokane Valley, WA
Ally Spangler
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about supporting individuals in their mental health journey and bring a wealth of experience grounded in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). My focus lies in working with adults grappling with anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder. In our sessions, I create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. DBT serves as the foundation of my approach, guiding you towards healing and self-discovery. I believe in the power of collaboration and a client-centered therapeutic alliance, empowering you to build resilience, develop coping skills, and achieve change.
I am passionate about supporting individuals in their mental health journey and bring a wealth of experience grounded in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). My focus lies in working with adults grappling with anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder. In our sessions, I create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions. DBT serves as the foundation of my approach, guiding you towards healing and self-discovery. I believe in the power of collaboration and a client-centered therapeutic alliance, empowering you to build resilience, develop coping skills, and achieve change.
(509) 397-8749 View (509) 397-8749
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Traverse Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99216
We are accepting new clients. I specialize in helping individuals and families reach and stay in recovery from anxiety and other mood disorders, substance misuse, trauma, relationship conflicts and issues surrounding grief and loss.
We are accepting new clients. I specialize in helping individuals and families reach and stay in recovery from anxiety and other mood disorders, substance misuse, trauma, relationship conflicts and issues surrounding grief and loss.
(206) 741-0742 View (206) 741-0742
Photo of Gracie Klontz, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Gracie Klontz
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NBCC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
It is a great privilege to be entrusted with the sacred work of helping individuals navigate life's issues. The therapeutic relationship is unlike any relationship one will experience anywhere because, in the therapy room, they are unconditionally valued and empathically listened to with their best interests in mind, free from hidden agendas, discrimination, or personal gain. In this safe environment, clients are encouraged to develop compassionate curiosity toward the pieces of their life story, which grants insight into their present functioning and is an essential part of their growth journey.
It is a great privilege to be entrusted with the sacred work of helping individuals navigate life's issues. The therapeutic relationship is unlike any relationship one will experience anywhere because, in the therapy room, they are unconditionally valued and empathically listened to with their best interests in mind, free from hidden agendas, discrimination, or personal gain. In this safe environment, clients are encouraged to develop compassionate curiosity toward the pieces of their life story, which grants insight into their present functioning and is an essential part of their growth journey.
(509) 486-7962 View (509) 486-7962
Photo of Sarah Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spokane Valley, WA
Sarah Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Hello, I’m Sarah Walsh (she/her). I’m an associate licensed clinician social worker. My bachelor’s and master’s degrees are both in social work from Walden University and led to a clinical focus in my practice of social work. Before I was a therapist, I worked in roles such as caregiving, inpatient psychiatric care, crisis line work, and case management. I was intensively trained in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) through Behavioral Tech. Other modalities I have training in are internal family systems and the Gottman Method.
Hello, I’m Sarah Walsh (she/her). I’m an associate licensed clinician social worker. My bachelor’s and master’s degrees are both in social work from Walden University and led to a clinical focus in my practice of social work. Before I was a therapist, I worked in roles such as caregiving, inpatient psychiatric care, crisis line work, and case management. I was intensively trained in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) through Behavioral Tech. Other modalities I have training in are internal family systems and the Gottman Method.
(509) 245-1282 View (509) 245-1282
Photo of Rikki Jayne Miller, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Rikki Jayne Miller
Counselor, LMFTA, LMHC, PhD Stu
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, families, and children who are seeking healing and restoration. Whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, difficult family circumstances, trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, or other concerns, it would be my pleasure to walk with you in your journey. There is no circumstance to small to seek out professional help. Counseling can increase one's own understanding of their behaviors and thoughts, while also increasing their self-esteem and ability to communicate with those around them.
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, families, and children who are seeking healing and restoration. Whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, difficult family circumstances, trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, or other concerns, it would be my pleasure to walk with you in your journey. There is no circumstance to small to seek out professional help. Counseling can increase one's own understanding of their behaviors and thoughts, while also increasing their self-esteem and ability to communicate with those around them.
(509) 402-1575 View (509) 402-1575
Photo of Family Essentials Counseling - Valley, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Family Essentials Counseling - Valley
Counselor, PhD, MA, LMHC, LICSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
At Family Essentials Counseling we have the right counselor for you. Check out our website for a detailed information on providers available - FamilyEssentialsCounseling.com
At Family Essentials Counseling we have the right counselor for you. Check out our website for a detailed information on providers available - FamilyEssentialsCounseling.com
(509) 761-3150 View (509) 761-3150
Photo of Victoria Facciola Riverside Therapy Center, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Victoria Facciola Riverside Therapy Center
Counselor, PhDCand, LMHC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99016
Now accepting new clients! I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes! I want to honor that and I want to make your experience in therapy meaningful and purposeful in your life. We all experience mental health challenges throughout life and we are all deserving of help. I hope that you trust me with your life stories.
Now accepting new clients! I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes! I want to honor that and I want to make your experience in therapy meaningful and purposeful in your life. We all experience mental health challenges throughout life and we are all deserving of help. I hope that you trust me with your life stories.
(509) 774-3449 View (509) 774-3449
Jared Tawney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99212  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My ideal clients struggle with communication in their relationships, feeling disconnected and stuck in negative cycles. They seek practical ways to improve dialogue, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust. Their goals are to enhance their relationships for greater support and satisfaction. Sessions are online, providing flexibility for those with busy schedules or preferring the privacy of home. Through virtual therapy, clients learn effective communication skills and strategies to foster understanding and emotional well-being in a supportive environment.
My ideal clients struggle with communication in their relationships, feeling disconnected and stuck in negative cycles. They seek practical ways to improve dialogue, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust. Their goals are to enhance their relationships for greater support and satisfaction. Sessions are online, providing flexibility for those with busy schedules or preferring the privacy of home. Through virtual therapy, clients learn effective communication skills and strategies to foster understanding and emotional well-being in a supportive environment.
(509) 400-5025 View (509) 400-5025
Photo of Brent B Harris, Counselor in Spokane Valley, WA
Brent B Harris
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Life’s journey can be rich with meaning and promise, yet challenges and difficulties can sometimes obstruct our way. My passion is to help you to better understand the obstacles that hinder and to assist you in gaining the knowledge and skills needed to move toward the life you desire. I believe that growth takes place best in a warm atmosphere in which you feel genuinely cared about, truly listened to and completely accepted. I have had the privilege of working with individuals for many years and will work collaboratively with you to diagnose and treat emotional, mental and behavioral problems.
Life’s journey can be rich with meaning and promise, yet challenges and difficulties can sometimes obstruct our way. My passion is to help you to better understand the obstacles that hinder and to assist you in gaining the knowledge and skills needed to move toward the life you desire. I believe that growth takes place best in a warm atmosphere in which you feel genuinely cared about, truly listened to and completely accepted. I have had the privilege of working with individuals for many years and will work collaboratively with you to diagnose and treat emotional, mental and behavioral problems.
(509) 790-3508 View (509) 790-3508

See more therapy options for Spokane Valley

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$127

Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Premera
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna

How Therapists in Spokane Valley, WA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Spokane Valley?

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.