Therapists in Garner, NC

Photo of Cicely Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Cicely Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Life brings about many different challenges. Perhaps you’ve had a life altering event that you’re trying to make sense of. Maybe you’re trying to figure out if you can heal or trust again after this experience. Maybe you’re a mother who is trying to find some ways to bond with your little one. Or maybe just a parent who needs some new tools in their parenting tool belt. Maybe you’re struggling to connect your spiritual and mental wellness. Whatever challenges you are facing, you want to see some change. We are here to help with that.
Life brings about many different challenges. Perhaps you’ve had a life altering event that you’re trying to make sense of. Maybe you’re trying to figure out if you can heal or trust again after this experience. Maybe you’re a mother who is trying to find some ways to bond with your little one. Or maybe just a parent who needs some new tools in their parenting tool belt. Maybe you’re struggling to connect your spiritual and mental wellness. Whatever challenges you are facing, you want to see some change. We are here to help with that.
(984) 228-2535 View (984) 228-2535
Photo of Karen Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Karen Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
For those seeking therapy and are ready to take active steps forward to lead a more authentic and fulfilled life, I am more than willing to guide and be a supportive asset in their journey.
For those seeking therapy and are ready to take active steps forward to lead a more authentic and fulfilled life, I am more than willing to guide and be a supportive asset in their journey.
(919) 583-6388 View (919) 583-6388
Photo of Jasmine N Johnson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, NC
Jasmine N Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
If you are a woman experiencing trauma, challenges or pressures from your present or past. Let me be of service to you. I want to help you through your healing journey, so that you can fulfill your God given purpose on the Earth. Are you in a place where you believe that life, your past, and trauma has shaped who you are or where you are going? It is my goal to empower and provide women with positive change which will redefine, reshape, reignite the imprints of their past to press towards a positive hope for their future.
If you are a woman experiencing trauma, challenges or pressures from your present or past. Let me be of service to you. I want to help you through your healing journey, so that you can fulfill your God given purpose on the Earth. Are you in a place where you believe that life, your past, and trauma has shaped who you are or where you are going? It is my goal to empower and provide women with positive change which will redefine, reshape, reignite the imprints of their past to press towards a positive hope for their future.
(984) 201-7516 View (984) 201-7516
Photo of Maurice Edward Fairley, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, NC
Maurice Edward Fairley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Maurice Fairley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Maurice’s experience includes working with adolescents and adults treating symptoms of trauma, depression, anger and anxiety. Maurice also has over 20 years working with the juvenile justice population at Wake Juvenile Detention Center.
Maurice Fairley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Maurice’s experience includes working with adolescents and adults treating symptoms of trauma, depression, anger and anxiety. Maurice also has over 20 years working with the juvenile justice population at Wake Juvenile Detention Center.
(919) 849-3561 View (919) 849-3561
Photo of Julia Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Julia Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
My name is Julia Smith. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and full time a tele-health therapist who is dedicated to helping individuals enhance their emotional well-being. My areas of clinical expertise include, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I have a wealth of experience treating emotional and behavioral issues affecting teens, parents, and young adults. I possess specialized training in evidenced based practices including: Brainspotting Phase I & II (pursuing certification), Trauma Focused-CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
My name is Julia Smith. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and full time a tele-health therapist who is dedicated to helping individuals enhance their emotional well-being. My areas of clinical expertise include, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I have a wealth of experience treating emotional and behavioral issues affecting teens, parents, and young adults. I possess specialized training in evidenced based practices including: Brainspotting Phase I & II (pursuing certification), Trauma Focused-CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
(919) 769-6377 View (919) 769-6377
Photo of Vicki Shawl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garner, NC
Vicki Shawl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
When the stress of everyday life feels too big to handle on your own, counseling is a safe, confidential way to work though the struggles, challenges and trauma. At Balanced Mind Counseling and Wellness, we will walk together on a journey of growth and personal discovery while healing past and present hurts. I believe in honesty, compassion and challenging thinking that often limits our own personal growth. Through Telehealth Counseling sessions we can work together to find strategies, solutions and new ways to view your struggles.
When the stress of everyday life feels too big to handle on your own, counseling is a safe, confidential way to work though the struggles, challenges and trauma. At Balanced Mind Counseling and Wellness, we will walk together on a journey of growth and personal discovery while healing past and present hurts. I believe in honesty, compassion and challenging thinking that often limits our own personal growth. Through Telehealth Counseling sessions we can work together to find strategies, solutions and new ways to view your struggles.
(984) 300-3156 View (984) 300-3156
Photo of Lastenia Francis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Lastenia Francis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you redefine who you are, and make meaningful change.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you redefine who you are, and make meaningful change.
(919) 246-8771 View (919) 246-8771
Photo of Nicole McMinn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Nicole McMinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Waitlist for new clients
There are many reasons you may have for seeking help. Maybe you or your loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about the person you are or the person you want to become. Perhaps you are seeking to navigate discussions about sexual health with your teens, loved ones, or intimate partner. There are a multitude of stressors and hardships these days, and we want to assure you that we are here for you.
There are many reasons you may have for seeking help. Maybe you or your loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or uncertainty about the person you are or the person you want to become. Perhaps you are seeking to navigate discussions about sexual health with your teens, loved ones, or intimate partner. There are a multitude of stressors and hardships these days, and we want to assure you that we are here for you.
(919) 759-5306 View (919) 759-5306
Photo of Alice Hasty Verstrat, Psychologist in Garner, NC
Alice Hasty Verstrat
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
First session is offered as a free consultation. Providing individual therapy for adults, adolescents and children. All treatment is adapted and customized to fit individual needs. Dr. Verstrat uses a variety of treatment methods that integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic and attachment theories. She believes in therapy as a collaborative process of healing and positive change. She has had a very diverse client background in age, religion, race, ethnicity, and sexuality.
First session is offered as a free consultation. Providing individual therapy for adults, adolescents and children. All treatment is adapted and customized to fit individual needs. Dr. Verstrat uses a variety of treatment methods that integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic and attachment theories. She believes in therapy as a collaborative process of healing and positive change. She has had a very diverse client background in age, religion, race, ethnicity, and sexuality.
(984) 459-7592 View (984) 459-7592
Photo of Raven Armstrong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Raven Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Your plate may be full and it may also seem difficult managing it all. Life is hard and it's also hard to make time for therapy, but your future self will thank you. My goal is to create a non-judgmental, supportive environment to foster positive growth and healing. I view therapy with a collaborative lens and value the rapport built between therapist and client to identify needs and concerns and work towards therapeutic goals.
Your plate may be full and it may also seem difficult managing it all. Life is hard and it's also hard to make time for therapy, but your future self will thank you. My goal is to create a non-judgmental, supportive environment to foster positive growth and healing. I view therapy with a collaborative lens and value the rapport built between therapist and client to identify needs and concerns and work towards therapeutic goals.
(919) 893-0434 View (919) 893-0434
Photo of Morgan Traynham Taylor, LCSW Associate in Garner, NC
Morgan Traynham Taylor
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Accepting new clients. If you are facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, life changes that make it hard to adjust or grief & loss of a loved one of any type, I'm here for you. I am a practicing licensed clinical social work associate with nine years experience in the social work field working with family, adults, adolescents and children. I work with my clients to motivate change in a gentle, but direct approach to therapy. I will help to encourage self actualization and insight that can be difficult to do on our own.
Accepting new clients. If you are facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, life changes that make it hard to adjust or grief & loss of a loved one of any type, I'm here for you. I am a practicing licensed clinical social work associate with nine years experience in the social work field working with family, adults, adolescents and children. I work with my clients to motivate change in a gentle, but direct approach to therapy. I will help to encourage self actualization and insight that can be difficult to do on our own.
(984) 368-4747 View (984) 368-4747
Photo of Janelle A. Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Janelle A. Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing a great disruption that seems too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. We are committed to helping you do just that.
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing a great disruption that seems too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. We are committed to helping you do just that.
(919) 514-2273 View (919) 514-2273
Photo of Layla A Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Layla A Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes this thing called life can be difficult to navigate! Job change, relationships, change in family dynamic. etc. all of these things can be difficult to navigate & often require another person or set of ears to help us navigate these life's stressors. Mental health is an important aspect of our lives that often gets overlooked. It can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to tackling your mental health and discovering a better version of yourself. I'm here to help you navigate this journey by providing guidance and support along the way.
Sometimes this thing called life can be difficult to navigate! Job change, relationships, change in family dynamic. etc. all of these things can be difficult to navigate & often require another person or set of ears to help us navigate these life's stressors. Mental health is an important aspect of our lives that often gets overlooked. It can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to tackling your mental health and discovering a better version of yourself. I'm here to help you navigate this journey by providing guidance and support along the way.
(919) 975-4200 View (919) 975-4200
Photo of Tammy Spears Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Tammy Spears Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Hello! Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in coping with life's challenges. If you are looking for an interactive, caring therapist that genuinely wants to partner with you to achieve your goals, I would love to meet with you. My approach is personalized and strength-based; you can trust we will get busy working towards your goals right away. Please take a look at www.newsolutionscounseling-nc.com to learn more about services, and our counselors.
Hello! Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in coping with life's challenges. If you are looking for an interactive, caring therapist that genuinely wants to partner with you to achieve your goals, I would love to meet with you. My approach is personalized and strength-based; you can trust we will get busy working towards your goals right away. Please take a look at www.newsolutionscounseling-nc.com to learn more about services, and our counselors.
(919) 261-1694 View (919) 261-1694
Photo of Multi-Cultural Counseling & Wellness Clinic, PLLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Garner, NC
Multi-Cultural Counseling & Wellness Clinic, PLLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC, CTHP-A, PhD CAN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
I am Retired Army. I worked for 15 years with adolescents in mental health care for over 20 years. My hope is to save those in need of help from Suicide as it is increasingly rising in our Military and Black communities. Our Clinic provides a culturally sensitive therapeutic treatment environment. Receive the care you deserve. I believe that a firm understanding of an individual’s cultural background has a significant impact on the person's worldview and behavior. As a Company, we focus on the multi-cultures in our community. Now working with victims of Homicide in Group & Individual grief sessions.
I am Retired Army. I worked for 15 years with adolescents in mental health care for over 20 years. My hope is to save those in need of help from Suicide as it is increasingly rising in our Military and Black communities. Our Clinic provides a culturally sensitive therapeutic treatment environment. Receive the care you deserve. I believe that a firm understanding of an individual’s cultural background has a significant impact on the person's worldview and behavior. As a Company, we focus on the multi-cultures in our community. Now working with victims of Homicide in Group & Individual grief sessions.
(984) 205-4281 View (984) 205-4281
Photo of Carin Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Carin Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solutions-Focused Therapy, and psychotherapy in addition to other treatment modalities in order to assist in decreasing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, behavioral and emotional dysregulation, poor self-esteem, relationship conflict, poor stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness. I aim to assist patients with building effective coping skills. I believe that my skills and kind personality allow the people I serve to feel supported, hopeful, empowered and more capable of addressing and reducing their symptoms.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solutions-Focused Therapy, and psychotherapy in addition to other treatment modalities in order to assist in decreasing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, behavioral and emotional dysregulation, poor self-esteem, relationship conflict, poor stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness. I aim to assist patients with building effective coping skills. I believe that my skills and kind personality allow the people I serve to feel supported, hopeful, empowered and more capable of addressing and reducing their symptoms.
(919) 529-5557 x4 View (919) 529-5557 x4
Photo of Christine Sande, Counselor in Garner, NC
Christine Sande
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. EMDR trained therapist! Offering virtual visits. Have you been feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or having difficulties in your relationship, or adjusting to life changes, or having difficulty processing a past/present traumatic event? If so, allow me to partner in your healing journey and becoming a better you. Ultimately, you already have the ability to change your circumstances, therapy should be a safe place for you to receive encouragement, support, accountability, and vision on how to achieve life goals. I believe everyone has a past, a history, and everyone can change and re-write their story!
Accepting new clients. EMDR trained therapist! Offering virtual visits. Have you been feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or having difficulties in your relationship, or adjusting to life changes, or having difficulty processing a past/present traumatic event? If so, allow me to partner in your healing journey and becoming a better you. Ultimately, you already have the ability to change your circumstances, therapy should be a safe place for you to receive encouragement, support, accountability, and vision on how to achieve life goals. I believe everyone has a past, a history, and everyone can change and re-write their story!
(919) 887-6104 View (919) 887-6104
Photo of Sarah R. Coates, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, NC
Sarah R. Coates
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I specialize in treating female Adults & Adolescents with Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders, Divorce/Separation, Abuse, Trauma, PTSD and other Women's issues including Maternal Mental Health. I strongly believe in Empowering women to become their very best, so that if their world crumbles they remain standing! The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance in counseling and through the trusting rapport we establish, my client's are able to facilitate positive change and growth in their lives. I also provide Christian counseling upon request.
I specialize in treating female Adults & Adolescents with Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders, Divorce/Separation, Abuse, Trauma, PTSD and other Women's issues including Maternal Mental Health. I strongly believe in Empowering women to become their very best, so that if their world crumbles they remain standing! The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance in counseling and through the trusting rapport we establish, my client's are able to facilitate positive change and growth in their lives. I also provide Christian counseling upon request.
(919) 263-3103 View (919) 263-3103
Photo of Kathy Elias, MA, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, NC
Kathy Elias, MA
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
(919) 443-5817 View (919) 443-5817
Photo of Enfinity Dobson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Enfinity Dobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, QP, MS, LCAS-A, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
The journey begins with you! You have made it this far but may not know where to go from here. Well that’s okay! Challenges, interactions, experiences, and daily life has all impacted us in various forms. Whether you are a friend, partner, sibling, parent, or professional, the art of therapy can be life changing. Though therapy may not always be sunshine and rainbows, I can promise you that your future will thank you. It will thank you for challenging yourself, it will thank you for your strength, and it will also will thank you for the growth that you will obtain just by participating in therapy.
The journey begins with you! You have made it this far but may not know where to go from here. Well that’s okay! Challenges, interactions, experiences, and daily life has all impacted us in various forms. Whether you are a friend, partner, sibling, parent, or professional, the art of therapy can be life changing. Though therapy may not always be sunshine and rainbows, I can promise you that your future will thank you. It will thank you for challenging yourself, it will thank you for your strength, and it will also will thank you for the growth that you will obtain just by participating in therapy.
(919) 873-4845 View (919) 873-4845

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Garner, NC

100+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Garner, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
79% Self Esteem
78% Coping Skills
76% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Aetna
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Garner, NC see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Garner?

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.