Therapists in 20020

Photo of Kenneth H King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kenneth H King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Washington, DC 20020
At Echoes of Helen, we believe every person, youth, and family deserves a safe space for healing, growth, and transformation. Our ideal clients are those who are ready to take steps toward change but may feel weighed down by challenges beyond their control. Challenges You May Be Facing Feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, or unresolved grief. Navigating trauma from past or ongoing experiences. Struggling with family conflict, communication breakdowns, or intergenerational pain. Young people experiencing self-esteem issues, identity questions, or pressures from school and community
At Echoes of Helen, we believe every person, youth, and family deserves a safe space for healing, growth, and transformation. Our ideal clients are those who are ready to take steps toward change but may feel weighed down by challenges beyond their control. Challenges You May Be Facing Feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, or unresolved grief. Navigating trauma from past or ongoing experiences. Struggling with family conflict, communication breakdowns, or intergenerational pain. Young people experiencing self-esteem issues, identity questions, or pressures from school and community
(202) 816-7431 View (202) 816-7431
Photo of Chester Marshall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Chester Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20020
Chester Marshall has over 30 years of experience helping African American men and boys and others with relationship issues, depression, life transitions, trauma, and other mental health challenges. He is certified in NTU psychotherapy, trauma-informed psychotherapy, and rational emotive behavior therapy. His goal is to provide emancipatory interventions that lead to liberating actions in the lives of his consumers..
Chester Marshall has over 30 years of experience helping African American men and boys and others with relationship issues, depression, life transitions, trauma, and other mental health challenges. He is certified in NTU psychotherapy, trauma-informed psychotherapy, and rational emotive behavior therapy. His goal is to provide emancipatory interventions that lead to liberating actions in the lives of his consumers..
(888) 604-8327 View (888) 604-8327
Providing Resources to Empower People
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Washington, DC 20020
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual, family, couples, and group therapy. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stress, life transitions, and trauma. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I use evidence-based strategies to help you gain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and create healthier patterns in your life and relationships. My goal is to provide a safe space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual, family, couples, and group therapy. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stress, life transitions, and trauma. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I use evidence-based strategies to help you gain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and create healthier patterns in your life and relationships. My goal is to provide a safe space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
(202) 902-6275 View (202) 902-6275
Photo of Joy Muhammad - Joyful Living on Purpose, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Joyful Living on Purpose
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20020
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Have you ever felt lonely, lost, or as if you’re not fully living the life you were meant to? I help women step into the life of their dreams by equipping them with the tools they need to thrive. Sometimes, it’s not about knowing all the answers—it’s about discovering who you truly are and embracing the life God intended for you. I specialize in helping women and girls set healthy boundaries, take empowered risks, and focus on what truly matters to them. Let’s begin exactly where you are and grow into your next chapter with clarity and purpose. Schedule a consultation today.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Have you ever felt lonely, lost, or as if you’re not fully living the life you were meant to? I help women step into the life of their dreams by equipping them with the tools they need to thrive. Sometimes, it’s not about knowing all the answers—it’s about discovering who you truly are and embracing the life God intended for you. I specialize in helping women and girls set healthy boundaries, take empowered risks, and focus on what truly matters to them. Let’s begin exactly where you are and grow into your next chapter with clarity and purpose. Schedule a consultation today.
(202) 519-4986 View (202) 519-4986
Photo of Marycatherine Balcom, Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW, LMSW
Marycatherine Balcom
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20020
Hi! I am MaryCatherine Balcom, a Licensed Graduate Social worker (LGSW) located in the DMV. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. One of my key strengths lies in my ability to establish a trusting and nonjudgmental rapport with my clients, especially with children and adolescents. I believe in fostering an environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to express yourself authentically, however that might look for you!
Hi! I am MaryCatherine Balcom, a Licensed Graduate Social worker (LGSW) located in the DMV. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. One of my key strengths lies in my ability to establish a trusting and nonjudgmental rapport with my clients, especially with children and adolescents. I believe in fostering an environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to express yourself authentically, however that might look for you!
(833) 658-7969 View (833) 658-7969
Photo of Danielle Currie - Safe Space Therapy and Retreats, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Safe Space Therapy and Retreats
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Washington, DC 20020
We are an accomplished team of Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers and Licensed Master Social Workers. We are licensed in GA, MD, MS, TN, and DC. Our therapy style is warm, open, caring, and collaborative. We are dedicated to redefining the stigma of mental health while helping you identify and address triggers, patterns, and unwanted behaviors.
We are an accomplished team of Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers and Licensed Master Social Workers. We are licensed in GA, MD, MS, TN, and DC. Our therapy style is warm, open, caring, and collaborative. We are dedicated to redefining the stigma of mental health while helping you identify and address triggers, patterns, and unwanted behaviors.
(202) 759-8186 View (202) 759-8186
Photo of Brittany Cardoza, Counselor, ATR-BC, LGPC, LGAT
Brittany Cardoza
Counselor, ATR-BC, LGPC, LGAT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If life has felt especially overwhelming lately, know that you're not alone. Many of my clients are first-time therapy seekers looking for extra support during times of stress. I believe in empowering my clients through collaborative goal setting, providing an empathetic and non-judgmental space, and re-establishing a sense of hope for the future. I like to describe my style as warm, welcoming, and direct. Our time together will provide you with a trusted place to vent, coping strategies to expand your toolbox, and education on how our minds and bodies are wired to process our world.
If life has felt especially overwhelming lately, know that you're not alone. Many of my clients are first-time therapy seekers looking for extra support during times of stress. I believe in empowering my clients through collaborative goal setting, providing an empathetic and non-judgmental space, and re-establishing a sense of hope for the future. I like to describe my style as warm, welcoming, and direct. Our time together will provide you with a trusted place to vent, coping strategies to expand your toolbox, and education on how our minds and bodies are wired to process our world.
(202) 804-8320 View (202) 804-8320
Photo of Emily Harshaw, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Emily Harshaw
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Serves Area
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a client centered therapist, my goal is to help you develop your true potential and lead a life worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a client centered therapist, my goal is to help you develop your true potential and lead a life worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
(240) 303-3988 View (240) 303-3988
Photo of Tanya Taylor - Capitol Hill Counseling and Resource Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LPC, PsyD, PhD
Capitol Hill Counseling and Resource Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LPC, PsyD, PhD
Serves Area
At the Capitol Hill Counseling and Resource Center, we know life isn't always easy. At some point, many of us need a little help to work through the challenges we face. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or something else, there is hope. Initially, you may be hesitant to seek help thru therapy. Most people are, but when you do, you can be confident you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and a better you. We're ready to help you become the person you want to be. We offer help, healing and hope.
At the Capitol Hill Counseling and Resource Center, we know life isn't always easy. At some point, many of us need a little help to work through the challenges we face. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or something else, there is hope. Initially, you may be hesitant to seek help thru therapy. Most people are, but when you do, you can be confident you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and a better you. We're ready to help you become the person you want to be. We offer help, healing and hope.
(202) 318-6595 View (202) 318-6595
Photo of Oludamilola Shodeinde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC, LICSW
Oludamilola Shodeinde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You are a professional, a protector, and the heartbeat of your family—but lately, the weight of "carrying it all" has become too much. Whether you are navigating the emotional journey of pregnancy and postpartum, struggling with the silent pain of infertility, or feeling the persistent edge of burnout and anxiety, you don't have to carry the load alone. As a West African, BIPOC female clinician, I provide a space that is grounded, respectful, and deeply culturally aware.
You are a professional, a protector, and the heartbeat of your family—but lately, the weight of "carrying it all" has become too much. Whether you are navigating the emotional journey of pregnancy and postpartum, struggling with the silent pain of infertility, or feeling the persistent edge of burnout and anxiety, you don't have to carry the load alone. As a West African, BIPOC female clinician, I provide a space that is grounded, respectful, and deeply culturally aware.
(301) 389-2130 View (301) 389-2130
Photo of E Kimberly Dunbar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-C, LCSW
E Kimberly Dunbar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-C, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I bring over a decade of experiences and my therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in empathy, empowerment, and collaboration. I seamlessly integrate evidence-based modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy—with psychodynamic, mindfulness, and trauma-informed techniques. This personalized approach helps clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress while fostering lasting emotional well-being.
I bring over a decade of experiences and my therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in empathy, empowerment, and collaboration. I seamlessly integrate evidence-based modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy—with psychodynamic, mindfulness, and trauma-informed techniques. This personalized approach helps clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress while fostering lasting emotional well-being.
(240) 376-5130 View (240) 376-5130
Photo of Kevin T Thorne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, CPLC
Kevin T Thorne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, CPLC
Serves Area
You are not alone. Most people at some time in their life could benefit from seeing a professional therapist to help them through a difficult and stressful time. Therapy is often the last resort and people are naturally anxious talking about their difficulties with a stranger. To ease the process, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and caring environment to help you find your way through whatever is troubling you. I am a Licensed Clinician in Maryland, DC, and Virginia.
You are not alone. Most people at some time in their life could benefit from seeing a professional therapist to help them through a difficult and stressful time. Therapy is often the last resort and people are naturally anxious talking about their difficulties with a stranger. To ease the process, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and caring environment to help you find your way through whatever is troubling you. I am a Licensed Clinician in Maryland, DC, and Virginia.
(240) 219-3232 View (240) 219-3232
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(877) 706-7568 View (877) 706-7568
Photo of Okera Shepherd, Psychological Associate, PsyD
Okera Shepherd
Psychological Associate, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! I am Dr. Shepherd, a dedicated therapist who is passionate about supporting individuals from all backgrounds, with a special commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that therapy is a transformative journey, especially when grounded in compassion, understanding, and authenticity. Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ adolescents and adults. I am deeply aware of the unique challenges that Queer individuals may face, from navigating identity development and systemic challenges to building fulfilling relationships and finding spaces where one feels seen and valued.
Welcome! I am Dr. Shepherd, a dedicated therapist who is passionate about supporting individuals from all backgrounds, with a special commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that therapy is a transformative journey, especially when grounded in compassion, understanding, and authenticity. Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ adolescents and adults. I am deeply aware of the unique challenges that Queer individuals may face, from navigating identity development and systemic challenges to building fulfilling relationships and finding spaces where one feels seen and valued.
(202) 915-5222 View (202) 915-5222
Photo of LaRita Mullins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaRita Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serves Area
Hello, I'm LaRita, a licensed clinical social worker with over 24 years of experience working with adults and couples. My goal is to help you identify and understand the underlying factors contributing to your challenges. Together, we can develop personalized strategies and coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles, manage stress, and improve your overall well-being. By offering different viewpoints, I can help you gain new insights and perspectives on your challenges, leading to increased self-awareness, personal growth, and the ability to make healthier choices. I provide relevant information and resources to enhance your knowledge
Hello, I'm LaRita, a licensed clinical social worker with over 24 years of experience working with adults and couples. My goal is to help you identify and understand the underlying factors contributing to your challenges. Together, we can develop personalized strategies and coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles, manage stress, and improve your overall well-being. By offering different viewpoints, I can help you gain new insights and perspectives on your challenges, leading to increased self-awareness, personal growth, and the ability to make healthier choices. I provide relevant information and resources to enhance your knowledge
(202) 914-5229 View (202) 914-5229
Photo of Mark A Boothe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, SAP
Mark A Boothe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, SAP
Serves Area
Our life journey is challenging with unanticipated twists, turns, bumps and detours. How we choose to navigate these challenges will profoundly impact our ability to live a healthier, happier, and emotionally stable life.
Our life journey is challenging with unanticipated twists, turns, bumps and detours. How we choose to navigate these challenges will profoundly impact our ability to live a healthier, happier, and emotionally stable life.
(202) 796-7470 View (202) 796-7470
Photo of Simone Harris - Empowered Today Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Empowered Today Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Serves Area
Life can be hard, and sometimes you're simply looking for peace in the middle of the chaos. Therapy can help you better understand the challenges you're facing while learning practical tools to manage them more effectively. At Empowered Today Counseling, we offer a warm, supportive space where adolescents and adults can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, life transitions, or feeling stuck, we work together to identify patterns, build healthy coping skills, and create meaningful change. Through evidence-based therapy and a compassionate approach, our goal is to help you find greater
Life can be hard, and sometimes you're simply looking for peace in the middle of the chaos. Therapy can help you better understand the challenges you're facing while learning practical tools to manage them more effectively. At Empowered Today Counseling, we offer a warm, supportive space where adolescents and adults can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, life transitions, or feeling stuck, we work together to identify patterns, build healthy coping skills, and create meaningful change. Through evidence-based therapy and a compassionate approach, our goal is to help you find greater
(202) 918-2775 View (202) 918-2775
Photo of Dominique Davenport, Counselor, LGPC
Dominique Davenport
Counselor, LGPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Finding a safe and nurturing environment to support your mental health is essential in the therapeutic process. My name is Dominique, and I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland, dedicated to being a compassionate presence as you navigate your journey. Whether you are seeking support for a child or adolescent struggling with behavioral issues, anxiety, or depression, or if you’re an adult in need of a mental health check-in due to relationship stressors, anxiety, or feelings of loneliness, I am here to walk alongside you.
Finding a safe and nurturing environment to support your mental health is essential in the therapeutic process. My name is Dominique, and I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland, dedicated to being a compassionate presence as you navigate your journey. Whether you are seeking support for a child or adolescent struggling with behavioral issues, anxiety, or depression, or if you’re an adult in need of a mental health check-in due to relationship stressors, anxiety, or feelings of loneliness, I am here to walk alongside you.
(410) 835-4947 View (410) 835-4947
Photo of Antoine L. Crosby, Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Antoine L. Crosby
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Serves Area
Affirmative Spaces specializes in providing psychotherapy to LGBTQIA+ people of color and other marginalized groups. In treatment, I utilize a culturally informed approach and strive to create a space where you are free to be your unapologetic, authentic self and ensure your experiences are honored, affirmed, and handled with care. Additionally, I utilize a theoretical approach that explores the influence of early relationships on current functioning. In each therapy relationship, I collaborate with clients to gain insight into their unique experiences and how these experiences contribute to the current distress experienced.
Affirmative Spaces specializes in providing psychotherapy to LGBTQIA+ people of color and other marginalized groups. In treatment, I utilize a culturally informed approach and strive to create a space where you are free to be your unapologetic, authentic self and ensure your experiences are honored, affirmed, and handled with care. Additionally, I utilize a theoretical approach that explores the influence of early relationships on current functioning. In each therapy relationship, I collaborate with clients to gain insight into their unique experiences and how these experiences contribute to the current distress experienced.
(202) 866-2161 View (202) 866-2161
Photo of Veronica Brown - The Faith Solution of the DMV, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LMHC
The Faith Solution of the DMV, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LMHC
Serves Area
On paper, you built the life you wanted. The promotions came. The house, the cars, the markers of a couple who clearly made it. But somewhere in all the work, work, work, the two of you slowly became roommates running a household. The same argument cycles that never resolve. Marriage became obligation and just getting through things than about real connection. You coexist. What you want underneath it all is simple: to feel heard, to feel chosen, to feel like a team again. At the core of it, you both want to feel chosen, to feel valued, to be understood, to feel like a team again.
On paper, you built the life you wanted. The promotions came. The house, the cars, the markers of a couple who clearly made it. But somewhere in all the work, work, work, the two of you slowly became roommates running a household. The same argument cycles that never resolve. Marriage became obligation and just getting through things than about real connection. You coexist. What you want underneath it all is simple: to feel heard, to feel chosen, to feel like a team again. At the core of it, you both want to feel chosen, to feel valued, to be understood, to feel like a team again.
(240) 303-7803 View (240) 303-7803

See more therapy options for 20020

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20020

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 20020 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
94% Social Anxiety
94% Health Anxiety
94% Driving Anxiety
86% Depression
75% Stress
71% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 20020 see their clients

70% Online Only
30% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20020?

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.