Therapists in Falls Church, VA

Photo of Tracy McGowan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Tracy McGowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am committed to helping individuals and their families navigate challenges with relationships, transitions and stress. With a BA in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work with a Clinical Concentration, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in non-profit, community-based, and private practice settings. While I believe there is tremendous healing in simply being heard and understood, I also believe that meaningful change is possible when problematic patterns are identified, disrupted and replaced with new effective behaviors that are consistent with one’s goals and values. My approach is compassionate and optimistic.
I am committed to helping individuals and their families navigate challenges with relationships, transitions and stress. With a BA in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work with a Clinical Concentration, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in non-profit, community-based, and private practice settings. While I believe there is tremendous healing in simply being heard and understood, I also believe that meaningful change is possible when problematic patterns are identified, disrupted and replaced with new effective behaviors that are consistent with one’s goals and values. My approach is compassionate and optimistic.
(202) 998-7167 View (202) 998-7167
Photo of Angela J. Huebner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Angela J. Huebner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Huebner's approach is collaborative and experiential. She believes that clients have an innate ability to heal and strives to meet them where they are in a non-pathologizing way. She is certified as an Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and has completed advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), all empirically validated treatment approaches for adult individuals and couples. She has also received additional training in mindfulness practice and interpersonal neurobiology, both of which she draws upon to inform her clinical practice.
Dr. Huebner's approach is collaborative and experiential. She believes that clients have an innate ability to heal and strives to meet them where they are in a non-pathologizing way. She is certified as an Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and has completed advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), all empirically validated treatment approaches for adult individuals and couples. She has also received additional training in mindfulness practice and interpersonal neurobiology, both of which she draws upon to inform her clinical practice.
(703) 962-6218 View (703) 962-6218
Photo of Tara Amor, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Falls Church, VA
Tara Amor
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life, but were hesitant to reach out for help? Did you think your challenges fell short of warranting a mental health professional? If so, you would not be alone. Many people think therapy is for those in crisis. But preventative mental healthcare is for everyone! I work with diverse clients to develop skills and habits that support healthy cognitions, emotions, and improve relationships. I assist individuals, couples, and families experiencing personal or professional relationship conflicts, particularly those with histories of childhood adversity, trauma, or cultural conflict.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life, but were hesitant to reach out for help? Did you think your challenges fell short of warranting a mental health professional? If so, you would not be alone. Many people think therapy is for those in crisis. But preventative mental healthcare is for everyone! I work with diverse clients to develop skills and habits that support healthy cognitions, emotions, and improve relationships. I assist individuals, couples, and families experiencing personal or professional relationship conflicts, particularly those with histories of childhood adversity, trauma, or cultural conflict.
(571) 999-6989 View (571) 999-6989
Photo of Haley Latta, Resident in Counseling in Falls Church, VA
Haley Latta
Resident in Counseling, MEd, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Nourishing the parts of ourselves that have been hurt requires kindness and tenderness. As a therapist, I am honored to walk alongside you as we explore the issues that have brought you to counseling. I will work with you from a position of respect and curiosity, highlighting the strengths that have brought you this far. I am experienced working with couples, families, and individuals who are looking to create security and meaning in their relationships.
Nourishing the parts of ourselves that have been hurt requires kindness and tenderness. As a therapist, I am honored to walk alongside you as we explore the issues that have brought you to counseling. I will work with you from a position of respect and curiosity, highlighting the strengths that have brought you this far. I am experienced working with couples, families, and individuals who are looking to create security and meaning in their relationships.
(434) 830-4025 View (434) 830-4025
Photo of Madison Thomas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Madison Thomas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with topics such as anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues and trauma. I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship between myself and the client, and I work to foster a comfortable space for talking about possibly uncomfortable subjects.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with topics such as anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues and trauma. I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship between myself and the client, and I work to foster a comfortable space for talking about possibly uncomfortable subjects.
(571) 520-7766 View (571) 520-7766
Photo of Laura Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Laura Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22044
At some point or another, each of us comes up against sticking points, loss of direction, or painful experiences. It is not always the case that "time heals all wounds." Unresolved issues can impact us over our lifetime. Therapy is one tool to help you unlock your inner strengths for healing and growth. You may be seeking help for your child or teen or trying to understand and support your child better. You may be looking to start therapy for yourself either for the first time or after a long treatment history. Whatever brings you into my office, together we will work to find your unique path to your goals.
At some point or another, each of us comes up against sticking points, loss of direction, or painful experiences. It is not always the case that "time heals all wounds." Unresolved issues can impact us over our lifetime. Therapy is one tool to help you unlock your inner strengths for healing and growth. You may be seeking help for your child or teen or trying to understand and support your child better. You may be looking to start therapy for yourself either for the first time or after a long treatment history. Whatever brings you into my office, together we will work to find your unique path to your goals.
(703) 935-2859 View (703) 935-2859
Photo of Doug Fagen, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Doug Fagen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Life today can be overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, and self-doubt accompany many of us as we try to figure out who we are, and who we are trying to become. Trauma, grief, and loss are part of many people’s lives. It can be easy to lose our way. Fortunately, there are ways that we can regain our footing, find meaning in our lives, and develop healthy ways to cope with all of the challenges that come our way. This is the focus of my psychotherapy work. My practice specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, family conflict, and relationship difficulties.
Life today can be overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, and self-doubt accompany many of us as we try to figure out who we are, and who we are trying to become. Trauma, grief, and loss are part of many people’s lives. It can be easy to lose our way. Fortunately, there are ways that we can regain our footing, find meaning in our lives, and develop healthy ways to cope with all of the challenges that come our way. This is the focus of my psychotherapy work. My practice specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, family conflict, and relationship difficulties.
(571) 946-5255 View (571) 946-5255
Photo of Chereen Gamal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Chereen Gamal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RYT500, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22042  (Online Only)
Losing a loved one can be the most difficult time in your life. Emotions are often surprising in their strength or mildness. Grief often breaks a person completely from the inside out. Grieving is hard work, you can get worn out, and feel battered. It can take a lot longer to work through grief than most people realize. People around you may think it’s helpful for you to not talk or cry or focus on your loss but actually, this is just what people need to do. The goal is to not stay stuck, to move through it—and this is part of the process. Grief doesn’t get better by ignoring it and trying to ‘get over it.’
Losing a loved one can be the most difficult time in your life. Emotions are often surprising in their strength or mildness. Grief often breaks a person completely from the inside out. Grieving is hard work, you can get worn out, and feel battered. It can take a lot longer to work through grief than most people realize. People around you may think it’s helpful for you to not talk or cry or focus on your loss but actually, this is just what people need to do. The goal is to not stay stuck, to move through it—and this is part of the process. Grief doesn’t get better by ignoring it and trying to ‘get over it.’
(703) 215-2221 View (703) 215-2221
Photo of Judie Lomax, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Judie Lomax
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you constantly striving to be the best version of yourself but struggle in a few areas? Do you want to improve your relationships, boundaries, or coping skills? Perhaps you have questions about worthiness, love, or belonging. Or maybe you need a safe place to process previous experiences and explore who you are. I am a passionate and experienced psychologist who works with individuals at various stages of life with a wide range of psychological needs.
Are you constantly striving to be the best version of yourself but struggle in a few areas? Do you want to improve your relationships, boundaries, or coping skills? Perhaps you have questions about worthiness, love, or belonging. Or maybe you need a safe place to process previous experiences and explore who you are. I am a passionate and experienced psychologist who works with individuals at various stages of life with a wide range of psychological needs.
(571) 450-9642 View (571) 450-9642
Photo of Maya N Georgieva, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Maya N Georgieva
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LCPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I remember being in high-school; the world seemed both exciting and overwhelming. What I love about working with teens the most is that I get to witness their impressive resilience, refreshing sense of humor, and inspiring idealism. Adolescence can be a turbulent time for young people and their families. High school students struggle with the effects of social media, body image, fatigue, friendship issues, academic pressures; they don't always know how to reach out for support. The most valuable thing that I can offer is my unconditional positive regard for my teen clients and their families.
I remember being in high-school; the world seemed both exciting and overwhelming. What I love about working with teens the most is that I get to witness their impressive resilience, refreshing sense of humor, and inspiring idealism. Adolescence can be a turbulent time for young people and their families. High school students struggle with the effects of social media, body image, fatigue, friendship issues, academic pressures; they don't always know how to reach out for support. The most valuable thing that I can offer is my unconditional positive regard for my teen clients and their families.
(703) 348-2711 View (703) 348-2711
Photo of Radhika Barrett, Resident in Counseling in Falls Church, VA
Radhika Barrett
Resident in Counseling, MA, NBCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
We all have anxieties. We have defenses against hurt that we build up over time, that become solidified into unproductive patterns of behavior and prevent us from living our best lives. We all, from time to time, lose connection with ourselves and those around us, as we try and do the million things that daily life demands of us. It’s okay. You’re not alone.
We all have anxieties. We have defenses against hurt that we build up over time, that become solidified into unproductive patterns of behavior and prevent us from living our best lives. We all, from time to time, lose connection with ourselves and those around us, as we try and do the million things that daily life demands of us. It’s okay. You’re not alone.
(571) 487-7664 View (571) 487-7664
Photo of Debbie Beach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Debbie Beach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience. I specialize in couples therapy, Parenting Coordination and Collaborative Divorce Coaching. I am a certified Gottman Therapist and have studied and practice Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. I provide practical, research based skills to couples looking to improve their relationships. We typically seek therapy to relieve symptoms that are causing problems with physical health, relationships and daily living. When healing begins, we can live more peacefully in the present. I strive to create a safe and compassionate atmosphere where you can explore your life circumstances.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience. I specialize in couples therapy, Parenting Coordination and Collaborative Divorce Coaching. I am a certified Gottman Therapist and have studied and practice Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. I provide practical, research based skills to couples looking to improve their relationships. We typically seek therapy to relieve symptoms that are causing problems with physical health, relationships and daily living. When healing begins, we can live more peacefully in the present. I strive to create a safe and compassionate atmosphere where you can explore your life circumstances.
(703) 957-7343 View (703) 957-7343
Photo of Stephen Dicarlo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Stephen Dicarlo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am a trained, graduate level, mental health professional who offers a variety of approaches. I draw upon both my academic training and vast life experiences to help my clients. We will work together to tailor our work to your background/history, current presenting circumstances, and goals for growth. I work alongside you, addressing what gives your life meaning, while developing practical growth strategies that lead to positive and lasting change. With warmth and compassion, we will work together to understand and resolve your past and present challenges and empower you with skills and awareness for the future.
I am a trained, graduate level, mental health professional who offers a variety of approaches. I draw upon both my academic training and vast life experiences to help my clients. We will work together to tailor our work to your background/history, current presenting circumstances, and goals for growth. I work alongside you, addressing what gives your life meaning, while developing practical growth strategies that lead to positive and lasting change. With warmth and compassion, we will work together to understand and resolve your past and present challenges and empower you with skills and awareness for the future.
(571) 253-7262 View (571) 253-7262
Photo of OCD Associates, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
OCD Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
We specialize in Rumination-Focused ERP for OCD and anxiety disorders. This approach focuses on treating compulsive rumination, and provides a highly systematic yet gentler approach to exposure therapy. RF-ERP can be helpful to patients who have not made significant progress in other types of treatment, including individuals with Pure O or Sensorimotor OCD.
(917) 924-3987 View (917) 924-3987
Photo of Anxiety And Adult Autism Therapist Olivia Yellen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Anxiety And Adult Autism Therapist Olivia Yellen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Currently accepting new clients! Connection and comfortability play a key role in the success of therapy. Finding a therapist who has expertise in addressing your specific concerns is essential! I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), and autistic teens and adults, or those who think they may be neurodivergent. As a parent myself, I also enjoy working with parents of neurodivergent and/or high needs kids.
Currently accepting new clients! Connection and comfortability play a key role in the success of therapy. Finding a therapist who has expertise in addressing your specific concerns is essential! I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), and autistic teens and adults, or those who think they may be neurodivergent. As a parent myself, I also enjoy working with parents of neurodivergent and/or high needs kids.
(571) 348-9246 View (571) 348-9246
Photo of Sherry Sutherland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Sherry Sutherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Not accepting new clients
I believe in a safe, supportive collaborative alliance with my clients, helping them to better able identify and meet their needs and to experience themselves as utilizing their potential to live full and rewarding lives. I offer an integrative approach to psychotherapy which includes a blend of "body-centered" and "talk" therapies, along with other creative arts modalities, such as movement, writing, art-making, and sand tray. This unique blend of cognitive and experiential approaches is informed by a psychodynamic understanding of personality, growth, and development and years of study and practice in assisting others to heal from stress, etc.
I believe in a safe, supportive collaborative alliance with my clients, helping them to better able identify and meet their needs and to experience themselves as utilizing their potential to live full and rewarding lives. I offer an integrative approach to psychotherapy which includes a blend of "body-centered" and "talk" therapies, along with other creative arts modalities, such as movement, writing, art-making, and sand tray. This unique blend of cognitive and experiential approaches is informed by a psychodynamic understanding of personality, growth, and development and years of study and practice in assisting others to heal from stress, etc.
(540) 822-0921 View (540) 822-0921
Photo of Emily G Nagel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Emily G Nagel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Life was hard enough before corona. Now, as everyone struggles, some are hurting more than others. If that sounds like you, or your child/teen, let's talk. Issues that were already there may have gotten worse, or maybe you're being proactive and need support to now to prevent escalation. Whatever is going on, I am here to help and genuinely care about what is best for you.
Life was hard enough before corona. Now, as everyone struggles, some are hurting more than others. If that sounds like you, or your child/teen, let's talk. Issues that were already there may have gotten worse, or maybe you're being proactive and need support to now to prevent escalation. Whatever is going on, I am here to help and genuinely care about what is best for you.
(434) 280-4127 View (434) 280-4127
Photo of Caroline Conley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Caroline Conley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am an licensed independent clinical social work in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have worked on inpatient hospitals and outpatient therapy. I believe that therapy is an important part of the journey into wellness and self-actualization. I value authentic and genuine connection with my clients. My work aims to assist people in vulnerable times. I partner with you on this journey. Do you have work related stress? Have you been in a difficult transition? Do you have marital or couples issues? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression and adjustment issues? I can help.
I am an licensed independent clinical social work in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have worked on inpatient hospitals and outpatient therapy. I believe that therapy is an important part of the journey into wellness and self-actualization. I value authentic and genuine connection with my clients. My work aims to assist people in vulnerable times. I partner with you on this journey. Do you have work related stress? Have you been in a difficult transition? Do you have marital or couples issues? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression and adjustment issues? I can help.
(202) 365-5606 View (202) 365-5606
Photo of Lara Jaramillo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Lara Jaramillo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults who are impacted by ADHD, executive dysfunction, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, selective mutism, and general emotional/behavioral regulation difficulties. I have over 15 years of experience in comprehensive psychological assessment of school-aged children, and I value ongoing consultation with school professionals and parents to determine the most appropriate supports to improve children's outcomes.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults who are impacted by ADHD, executive dysfunction, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, selective mutism, and general emotional/behavioral regulation difficulties. I have over 15 years of experience in comprehensive psychological assessment of school-aged children, and I value ongoing consultation with school professionals and parents to determine the most appropriate supports to improve children's outcomes.
(571) 487-8912 View (571) 487-8912
Photo of Annah Mackin Applebaum, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Annah Mackin Applebaum
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Picking fights with loved ones. Worrying about how we're perceived. Reacting defensively to criticism. Ruminating over social interactions. Avoiding difficult conversations. Punishing others when we’re hurt. We do all these things for reasons, but often our reasons are emotional wounds too vulnerable to acknowledge. Many of our behaviors are motivated by deeply held beliefs about ourselves and what we can expect from others. Often, our behaviors are strategic habits we learned in formative relationships that had unhealthy dynamics and imbalances of power.
Picking fights with loved ones. Worrying about how we're perceived. Reacting defensively to criticism. Ruminating over social interactions. Avoiding difficult conversations. Punishing others when we’re hurt. We do all these things for reasons, but often our reasons are emotional wounds too vulnerable to acknowledge. Many of our behaviors are motivated by deeply held beliefs about ourselves and what we can expect from others. Often, our behaviors are strategic habits we learned in formative relationships that had unhealthy dynamics and imbalances of power.
(571) 475-8712 View (571) 475-8712

See more therapy options for Falls Church

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Falls Church, VA

500+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Falls Church, VA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
66% Stress
65% Coping Skills
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% CareFirst
53% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Falls Church, VA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Falls Church?

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.