Therapists in Franklin, TN

Photo of A Different World Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
A Different World Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
(615) 240-2840 View (615) 240-2840
Photo of Bedford M Combs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Bedford M Combs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37069
I have had the privilege, for the last 40 years, of working with over 12,000 courageous folks who have taught me invaluable lessons over and over about the incredible resilience and possibilities of the human spirit. Utilizing our six day workshop for individuals and couples, individual, couples, group and family therapy, Heartstream Journeys treats issues around relationship struggles, historical trauma and the desire to create life in the most meaningful way in primary love relationships, parenting, with family and friends and within oneself and one's spiritual connection. It is my profound privilege to Journey with you.
I have had the privilege, for the last 40 years, of working with over 12,000 courageous folks who have taught me invaluable lessons over and over about the incredible resilience and possibilities of the human spirit. Utilizing our six day workshop for individuals and couples, individual, couples, group and family therapy, Heartstream Journeys treats issues around relationship struggles, historical trauma and the desire to create life in the most meaningful way in primary love relationships, parenting, with family and friends and within oneself and one's spiritual connection. It is my profound privilege to Journey with you.
(615) 538-0074 View (615) 538-0074
Photo of Brenda Anderson Menzies, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Brenda Anderson Menzies
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Counseling individuals and couples who are looking to improve their relationships, increase self awareness, and move towards greater levels of success and happiness in their personal and professional lives is my greatest source of fulfillment as a therapist. Modern life presents all of us with many challenges including anxiety, depression, and issues with core beliefs. Having an experienced, compassionate therapist to help navigate the journey of personal growth can make all the difference.
Counseling individuals and couples who are looking to improve their relationships, increase self awareness, and move towards greater levels of success and happiness in their personal and professional lives is my greatest source of fulfillment as a therapist. Modern life presents all of us with many challenges including anxiety, depression, and issues with core beliefs. Having an experienced, compassionate therapist to help navigate the journey of personal growth can make all the difference.
(615) 205-7558 View (615) 205-7558
Photo of William D Aldrich, Counselor in Franklin, TN
William D Aldrich
Counselor, EdS, LSPE, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Everyone faces challenges in today's fast-paced society. Sometimes, the challenges can feel overwhelming. Therapy can help address issues that interfere with our relationships, goals, happiness and ability to function. Change in behavior does not typically come easily, though. Established thinking and behavior patterns may get us through the day, but they also can prevent us from reaching our full potential. When a client establishes a therapeutic relationship with a counselor, they in essence are saying that merely functioning is not good enough. They want more: increased self-awareness, improved relationships, enhanced professional success, greater personal happiness.
Everyone faces challenges in today's fast-paced society. Sometimes, the challenges can feel overwhelming. Therapy can help address issues that interfere with our relationships, goals, happiness and ability to function. Change in behavior does not typically come easily, though. Established thinking and behavior patterns may get us through the day, but they also can prevent us from reaching our full potential. When a client establishes a therapeutic relationship with a counselor, they in essence are saying that merely functioning is not good enough. They want more: increased self-awareness, improved relationships, enhanced professional success, greater personal happiness.
(615) 281-9943 View (615) 281-9943
Photo of Lisa Masri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin, TN
Lisa Masri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
You’re seeing the warning signs that something is off with your child. It’s heartbreaking to watch them suffer with persistent sadness, extreme irritability and violent outbursts. What about the excessive worry, changes in mood and constant complaints of having a stomachache? Your family has been through so much lately, and the intense wave of transition has changed the dynamic in the home. Your child has a hard time communicating what they are feeling and might not even know what’s really bothering them. While everyone struggles to keep up with the changes, communication and connection have all but disappeared in the chaos.
You’re seeing the warning signs that something is off with your child. It’s heartbreaking to watch them suffer with persistent sadness, extreme irritability and violent outbursts. What about the excessive worry, changes in mood and constant complaints of having a stomachache? Your family has been through so much lately, and the intense wave of transition has changed the dynamic in the home. Your child has a hard time communicating what they are feeling and might not even know what’s really bothering them. While everyone struggles to keep up with the changes, communication and connection have all but disappeared in the chaos.
(615) 219-2538 View (615) 219-2538
Photo of Sarah Hulsey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Franklin, TN
Sarah Hulsey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37069
You may feel like you’re looking for a unicorn when finding the right clinician for you. Whether you are looking for someone who is well-versed in working with those who are neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, or have experienced trauma - my hope is that you find a supportive space to grow and heal. I enjoy helping clients work towards goals of self-acceptance, resilience, and empowerment. I hope to offer understanding and validation of your experiences in life as you work towards a better understanding of yourself in the world and of the world around you.
You may feel like you’re looking for a unicorn when finding the right clinician for you. Whether you are looking for someone who is well-versed in working with those who are neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, or have experienced trauma - my hope is that you find a supportive space to grow and heal. I enjoy helping clients work towards goals of self-acceptance, resilience, and empowerment. I hope to offer understanding and validation of your experiences in life as you work towards a better understanding of yourself in the world and of the world around you.
(629) 276-6765 View (629) 276-6765
Photo of Elizabeth Krause, Ph.D. Telehealth Psychology, Psychologist in Franklin, TN
Elizabeth Krause, Ph.D. Telehealth Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
Are you going through a challenging life circumstance making you vulnerable to depression or anxiety? Perhaps you're struggling with a medical diagnosis, trauma, chronic pain, or want to learn more about mindfulness or meditation. I am a dual licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. I have immediate openings for Telehealth sessions. I offer individual therapy for adults with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADD, Panic, Sleep Disorders, Chronic Pain, and Trauma. Additional services include Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) DBT, ACT, Self-Hypnosis, Meditation Training, and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
Are you going through a challenging life circumstance making you vulnerable to depression or anxiety? Perhaps you're struggling with a medical diagnosis, trauma, chronic pain, or want to learn more about mindfulness or meditation. I am a dual licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. I have immediate openings for Telehealth sessions. I offer individual therapy for adults with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADD, Panic, Sleep Disorders, Chronic Pain, and Trauma. Additional services include Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) DBT, ACT, Self-Hypnosis, Meditation Training, and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
(615) 527-8627 View (615) 527-8627
Photo of Annchristine Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Annchristine Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Often life can get overwhelming, and we can feel stuck. My passion is walking alongside of teens and adults as we sort through grief, loss, life changes, depression, anxiety, old wounds, or discovering your identity to find healing and clarity. I strive to create a safe, non judgmental environment and treat each client with respect and understanding. I also want to create a place where you can grow and begin resolving the issues that brought you into counseling. I tend to see counseling for each client as a journey, and my role is to encourage, guide, and help you develop the tools necessary to continue on your unique path.
Often life can get overwhelming, and we can feel stuck. My passion is walking alongside of teens and adults as we sort through grief, loss, life changes, depression, anxiety, old wounds, or discovering your identity to find healing and clarity. I strive to create a safe, non judgmental environment and treat each client with respect and understanding. I also want to create a place where you can grow and begin resolving the issues that brought you into counseling. I tend to see counseling for each client as a journey, and my role is to encourage, guide, and help you develop the tools necessary to continue on your unique path.
(615) 645-1545 View (615) 645-1545
Photo of Kyle M. Rigsby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Kyle M. Rigsby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I would love the chance to work with you on the areas of your life where you feel stuck. Anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD (I use EMDR Therapy to treat this), performance issues (both athletically, and professionally), relational issues with family, spirituality issues, grief and loss are all areas in which I have experience. My primary job is to walk with you through the areas you are struggling in and support you all along the way. My greatest desire as a therapist is to see my clients healthy in every sense of the word. I am ready now to help you.
I would love the chance to work with you on the areas of your life where you feel stuck. Anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD (I use EMDR Therapy to treat this), performance issues (both athletically, and professionally), relational issues with family, spirituality issues, grief and loss are all areas in which I have experience. My primary job is to walk with you through the areas you are struggling in and support you all along the way. My greatest desire as a therapist is to see my clients healthy in every sense of the word. I am ready now to help you.
(615) 671-4847 View (615) 671-4847
Photo of Kelcie N. Silva, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Kelcie N. Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37069
I offer in-person and telehealth sessions in the state of Tennessee and telehealth sessions in the state of Texas. I believe that we all have the capability to grow and move into a place of connectedness. My aim is to provide a safe space for clients to feel seen, heard, and valued. I believe that the therapy process empowers clients to move into a place of freedom, where they are free of burdens to be able to experience their authentic self.
I offer in-person and telehealth sessions in the state of Tennessee and telehealth sessions in the state of Texas. I believe that we all have the capability to grow and move into a place of connectedness. My aim is to provide a safe space for clients to feel seen, heard, and valued. I believe that the therapy process empowers clients to move into a place of freedom, where they are free of burdens to be able to experience their authentic self.
(615) 716-0134 View (615) 716-0134
Photo of Luke Brasel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Luke Brasel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Hi, I’m Luke. I help men, women, couples, and adolescents recover and live with heart. Your car needs a mechanic. Your home needs a repair man. How about your heart? This is where I come in. I am like a physician for your inner life. Specifically, I work with men, women, couples, adolescents, and families. My clients present with a wide variety of presenting problems. Regardless of what brings you in, I aim to walk alongside you as you move toward joy, connection, and living with deeper meaning. I offer a place for you to be known and the chance to make sense of your story.
Hi, I’m Luke. I help men, women, couples, and adolescents recover and live with heart. Your car needs a mechanic. Your home needs a repair man. How about your heart? This is where I come in. I am like a physician for your inner life. Specifically, I work with men, women, couples, adolescents, and families. My clients present with a wide variety of presenting problems. Regardless of what brings you in, I aim to walk alongside you as you move toward joy, connection, and living with deeper meaning. I offer a place for you to be known and the chance to make sense of your story.
(615) 490-0461 View (615) 490-0461
Photo of Ashley Elizabeth Johnston, Counselor in Franklin, TN
Ashley Elizabeth Johnston
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, and thanks for visiting! I take an integrative, holistic approach to therapy and consider all aspects of your health - mind, body, and spirit - in our work together. We don't need fixing; we need healing. I believe symptoms are messengers trying to take us inside to the places that need attention and compassion. I'll help you identify realistic therapy goals and gently encourage and assist you as you make the (often difficult) changes necessary to achieve them through psychoeducation, holistic interventions, and most importantly, a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship.
Hello, and thanks for visiting! I take an integrative, holistic approach to therapy and consider all aspects of your health - mind, body, and spirit - in our work together. We don't need fixing; we need healing. I believe symptoms are messengers trying to take us inside to the places that need attention and compassion. I'll help you identify realistic therapy goals and gently encourage and assist you as you make the (often difficult) changes necessary to achieve them through psychoeducation, holistic interventions, and most importantly, a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship.
(615) 490-0832 View (615) 490-0832
Photo of Tracy Steyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Tracy Steyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Rule, Family, Mediato
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Practice specialization is marital, divorce, and blended family orientations. Modalities utilized are designed for identifying issues related to effective communication, emotional triggers, and resolution of transgenerational family patterns.
Practice specialization is marital, divorce, and blended family orientations. Modalities utilized are designed for identifying issues related to effective communication, emotional triggers, and resolution of transgenerational family patterns.
(615) 671-4163 View (615) 671-4163
Photo of Cara Clarkson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Cara Clarkson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
My work is focused primarily on supporting individuals cope with and recover from debilitating anxiety. I am passionate about working with individuals who have been previously hesitant towards or suspicious of therapy (been there!) as well as individuals who are currently in couples therapy and are seeking further individual support. Whether you are anywhere from a teenager with social anxiety to an older adult navigating the stressors of life transitions, it is my goal to hold a space for you to identify what is happening within you as you tell your story and identify pain points along the way.
My work is focused primarily on supporting individuals cope with and recover from debilitating anxiety. I am passionate about working with individuals who have been previously hesitant towards or suspicious of therapy (been there!) as well as individuals who are currently in couples therapy and are seeking further individual support. Whether you are anywhere from a teenager with social anxiety to an older adult navigating the stressors of life transitions, it is my goal to hold a space for you to identify what is happening within you as you tell your story and identify pain points along the way.
(629) 209-5112 View (629) 209-5112
Photo of Nancy B Farris, Psychologist in Franklin, TN
Nancy B Farris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Dr. Nancy Farris has over thirty years of experience motivating people to realize their human potential. She is a highly successful psychologist and has a passion to help others to effectively increase their own powerful energy in their every day lives. Her expertise encompasses the fields of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Emotional Intelligence, and Counseling. She has graduate degrees in Clinical Psychology, is licensed to practice in several states and holds a Ph.D.
Dr. Nancy Farris has over thirty years of experience motivating people to realize their human potential. She is a highly successful psychologist and has a passion to help others to effectively increase their own powerful energy in their every day lives. Her expertise encompasses the fields of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Emotional Intelligence, and Counseling. She has graduate degrees in Clinical Psychology, is licensed to practice in several states and holds a Ph.D.
(615) 724-9381 View (615) 724-9381
Photo of Aaron Byrd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Aaron Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Are the things that once made you happy no longer making you happy? Have you been through a traumatic experience that left you feeling scared, lonely, or even doubting who you are? Maybe you’ve been through a series of little things that you believe shouldn’t be bothering you, but they are. Have you found yourself on Google trying to figure yourself out only to find article after article about “childhood trauma”? I feel you. You are not alone. Together, I believe we can reduce your suffering, find direction, and feel happiness once again. My office is a safe and affirming space for all LGBTQ+ people.
Are the things that once made you happy no longer making you happy? Have you been through a traumatic experience that left you feeling scared, lonely, or even doubting who you are? Maybe you’ve been through a series of little things that you believe shouldn’t be bothering you, but they are. Have you found yourself on Google trying to figure yourself out only to find article after article about “childhood trauma”? I feel you. You are not alone. Together, I believe we can reduce your suffering, find direction, and feel happiness once again. My office is a safe and affirming space for all LGBTQ+ people.
(615) 802-6733 View (615) 802-6733
Photo of Anita H Pringle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Anita H Pringle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
My passion is to journey with individuals who struggle in life - whether life-long or due to a recent situation. I work with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, sex addiction, faith issues, addiction and other mental health issues. My goal is to journey toward health and wholeness in one's life.
My passion is to journey with individuals who struggle in life - whether life-long or due to a recent situation. I work with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, sex addiction, faith issues, addiction and other mental health issues. My goal is to journey toward health and wholeness in one's life.
(615) 206-3783 View (615) 206-3783
Photo of Annabelle Bright, Pre-Licensed Professional in Franklin, TN
Annabelle Bright
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I believe that we as humans are wired for safety and connection and can experience difficulty within ourselves and our relationships when these needs are not met. I see that there is a need behind all behaviors, and I seek to approach the issues your child or teen is experiencing with curiosity and compassion. I recognize that you as a caregiver may be worn out, and as a thoughtful listener, I bring a welcoming spirit to hard conversations. In family systems work, I find value in empowering caregivers to understand their role and their individual children and teens more deeply.
I believe that we as humans are wired for safety and connection and can experience difficulty within ourselves and our relationships when these needs are not met. I see that there is a need behind all behaviors, and I seek to approach the issues your child or teen is experiencing with curiosity and compassion. I recognize that you as a caregiver may be worn out, and as a thoughtful listener, I bring a welcoming spirit to hard conversations. In family systems work, I find value in empowering caregivers to understand their role and their individual children and teens more deeply.
(615) 640-4798 View (615) 640-4798
Photo of David Vickery, Psychologist in Franklin, TN
David Vickery
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Let's talk about what is right about you......Let's name the good and let's begin the change. Most of us need help doing this as our day to day lives emphasize the negative and consequently we forget who we truly are. It is our hope at Positive Psychology Group that we may be of some help to you should you have retreated from an active participation in life by helping you rekindle the joy in life that has somehow been hidden and suppressed.
Let's talk about what is right about you......Let's name the good and let's begin the change. Most of us need help doing this as our day to day lives emphasize the negative and consequently we forget who we truly are. It is our hope at Positive Psychology Group that we may be of some help to you should you have retreated from an active participation in life by helping you rekindle the joy in life that has somehow been hidden and suppressed.
(615) 203-8064 View (615) 203-8064
Photo of Kimberly Van Buskirk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Kimberly Van Buskirk
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
My name is Kim, I am an honest, straight shooter, who will support you as you grow and develop your insights and self-awareness. I am passionate about helping people and believe that everyone is worthy of love, can make healthy changes and is deserving of a space all to themselves to take the steps towards self-discovery. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at, utilizing an integrative approach to therapy and building a strong and reliable relationship between therapist and client.
My name is Kim, I am an honest, straight shooter, who will support you as you grow and develop your insights and self-awareness. I am passionate about helping people and believe that everyone is worthy of love, can make healthy changes and is deserving of a space all to themselves to take the steps towards self-discovery. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at, utilizing an integrative approach to therapy and building a strong and reliable relationship between therapist and client.
(615) 437-2289 View (615) 437-2289

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Franklin, TN

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Franklin, TN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Relationship Issues
83% Depression
75% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
66% Grief
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Cigna and Evernorth
60% Aetna
56% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Franklin, TN see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Franklin?

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.