Therapists in 20510

Photo of Diane Reis, Psychologist, PsyD, PLLC
Diane Reis
Psychologist, PsyD, PLLC
Serves Area
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
(202) 738-5745 View (202) 738-5745
Photo of Deborah P Hecker, Counselor, PhD
Deborah P Hecker
Counselor, PhD
Serves Area
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
Combining her backgrounds in psychoanalysis and couples' training, Dr. Deborah Hecker has created a cutting-edge counseling process called Yours, Mine, Ours: Partnership Done Right. Her goals with her clients are twofold: to simultaneously help people to develop their unique identities and how to successfully integrate them into outstanding relationships.
(202) 410-2671 View (202) 410-2671
Photo of Shawne Ellen Steiger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Shawne Ellen Steiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Active therapy for individuals and couples since 1992. I am a direct, high-engagement therapist based in Syracuse (in-person) and online across NY/DC. I don't follow rigid protocols; I integrate EMDR as a targeted tool within an experiential, emotion-focused framework. With over 30 years of experience, I focus on the blocks keeping you stuck to help you actually feel different.
Active therapy for individuals and couples since 1992. I am a direct, high-engagement therapist based in Syracuse (in-person) and online across NY/DC. I don't follow rigid protocols; I integrate EMDR as a targeted tool within an experiential, emotion-focused framework. With over 30 years of experience, I focus on the blocks keeping you stuck to help you actually feel different.
(680) 206-2402 View (680) 206-2402

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angela Brown - Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C., Marriage & Family Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling &Psychiatry Washington,D.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Washington, DC 20002
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 939-1906 View (855) 939-1906
Photo of Aaron W Severn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Aaron W Severn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with a diverse range of adults, couples and families. Many clients are high achievers experiencing anxiety, depression, overwhelm or loneliness as they juggle various demands. We often explore how dramatic societal or geo-political changes are exacerbating these challenges. In my work with you, I will bring a calm and warm approach, often interspersed with humor, to establish and build trust. Together we will gain a fuller understanding of your challenges or your patterns and habits you want to change. We will then take a therapeutic approach based on your unique experiences, strengths and values to achieve your goals.
I work with a diverse range of adults, couples and families. Many clients are high achievers experiencing anxiety, depression, overwhelm or loneliness as they juggle various demands. We often explore how dramatic societal or geo-political changes are exacerbating these challenges. In my work with you, I will bring a calm and warm approach, often interspersed with humor, to establish and build trust. Together we will gain a fuller understanding of your challenges or your patterns and habits you want to change. We will then take a therapeutic approach based on your unique experiences, strengths and values to achieve your goals.
(202) 559-0247 View (202) 559-0247
Photo of Dr. Damon J. Murphy, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Damon J. Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing care for individuals seeking change in a growth-enhancing direction. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, identity issues, or just the stress of everyday life, my practice is designed to work with you. Therapy can be a difficult experience for some individuals and therefore its important that I provide a safe, empathic, and collaborative relationship to facilitate the therapeutic work we do together. My major goal is to increase insight and action in clients using various modalities to deepen self-understanding and a shift in thinking, feeling, and behavior.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing care for individuals seeking change in a growth-enhancing direction. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, identity issues, or just the stress of everyday life, my practice is designed to work with you. Therapy can be a difficult experience for some individuals and therefore its important that I provide a safe, empathic, and collaborative relationship to facilitate the therapeutic work we do together. My major goal is to increase insight and action in clients using various modalities to deepen self-understanding and a shift in thinking, feeling, and behavior.
(703) 854-9223 View (703) 854-9223
Photo of Catherine Grothus, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST, CAC-I
Catherine Grothus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST, CAC-I
18 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I believe that each and every one of us has a truth, and that discussing those truths can be both a powerful and a painful experience. As a therapist, I am honored to help individuals uncover and rediscover what brings fulfillment, meaning, and connection with themselves and others.
I believe that each and every one of us has a truth, and that discussing those truths can be both a powerful and a painful experience. As a therapist, I am honored to help individuals uncover and rediscover what brings fulfillment, meaning, and connection with themselves and others.
(202) 932-6588 View (202) 932-6588
Photo of Sean C LeSane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Sean C LeSane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
My practice focuses on work with individuals, couples and groups to assist you in understanding how you can relate to others in as authentic a way as possible. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and have provided psychotherapy for the past 20 years. I have worked in various therapeutic environments with people who are dealing with varying degrees of mental health issues and life challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and grief and loss.
My practice focuses on work with individuals, couples and groups to assist you in understanding how you can relate to others in as authentic a way as possible. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and have provided psychotherapy for the past 20 years. I have worked in various therapeutic environments with people who are dealing with varying degrees of mental health issues and life challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and grief and loss.
(202) 681-3952 View (202) 681-3952
Photo of Carissa Francis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, ICSW
Carissa Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, ICSW
Serves Area
Thank you for visiting my profile! My practice is now dedicated exclusively to EMDR Intensives for adults in Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC. EMDR Intensives are an alternative to traditional weekly therapy, offering extended, focused sessions over one or more days instead of 50-minute weekly appointments. This immersive approach reduces the stop-and-start nature of therapy, allowing for deeper processing and meaningful progress in a shorter period of time. Each intensive is personalized to your goals, history, and unique needs.
Thank you for visiting my profile! My practice is now dedicated exclusively to EMDR Intensives for adults in Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC. EMDR Intensives are an alternative to traditional weekly therapy, offering extended, focused sessions over one or more days instead of 50-minute weekly appointments. This immersive approach reduces the stop-and-start nature of therapy, allowing for deeper processing and meaningful progress in a shorter period of time. Each intensive is personalized to your goals, history, and unique needs.
(540) 889-3487 View (540) 889-3487
Photo of Kirk Burke-Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, JDLLM, LCSWC, LICSW
Kirk Burke-Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, JDLLM, LCSWC, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
I help patients find hope in adversity. I explore a patient's need for external validation and identify old, negative motivators used to inspire achievement-based goals. I teach self-care and self-regulating practices while modeling healthy attunement. Together, we explore conflict-avoidant behaviors and healthy dependency. Being a highly sensitive person is not a weakness but an empathic strength. I explore the guilt, shame, and fear that cause "analysis paralysis." I analyze unhealthy habits and teach clients to build trust and reconnect with a traumatic body that no longer trusts. You are the expert and I am your guide.
I help patients find hope in adversity. I explore a patient's need for external validation and identify old, negative motivators used to inspire achievement-based goals. I teach self-care and self-regulating practices while modeling healthy attunement. Together, we explore conflict-avoidant behaviors and healthy dependency. Being a highly sensitive person is not a weakness but an empathic strength. I explore the guilt, shame, and fear that cause "analysis paralysis." I analyze unhealthy habits and teach clients to build trust and reconnect with a traumatic body that no longer trusts. You are the expert and I am your guide.
(202) 816-4428 View (202) 816-4428
Photo of Patrice Craigie, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
Patrice Craigie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I feel that it is important to explore each client's reality and make sense of his/her experiences. I work with clients who experience depression and anxiety. My role is to help clients identify triggers to their symptoms, explore their unexpressed feelings that contribute to these symptoms and teach coping skills. Additionally, I also have experience conducting couples and family therapy. I help these clients identify negative communication styles by exploring the interactional cycle and helping them repair this cycle.
I feel that it is important to explore each client's reality and make sense of his/her experiences. I work with clients who experience depression and anxiety. My role is to help clients identify triggers to their symptoms, explore their unexpressed feelings that contribute to these symptoms and teach coping skills. Additionally, I also have experience conducting couples and family therapy. I help these clients identify negative communication styles by exploring the interactional cycle and helping them repair this cycle.
(202) 856-9303 View (202) 856-9303
Photo of William Nation, Psychologist, PhD
William Nation
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Finding your place in the world when you don't fit the mold? I specialize in working with queer folks, neurodivergent folks, men, and gamers (often all four), especially grad students navigating identity, isolation, and 'what's the point of all this?' We'll use D&D, gaming, and your actual interests as clinical tools to address depression, anxiety, and existential drift. This is therapy that gets you, uses what you love, and actually fits how your brain works.
Finding your place in the world when you don't fit the mold? I specialize in working with queer folks, neurodivergent folks, men, and gamers (often all four), especially grad students navigating identity, isolation, and 'what's the point of all this?' We'll use D&D, gaming, and your actual interests as clinical tools to address depression, anxiety, and existential drift. This is therapy that gets you, uses what you love, and actually fits how your brain works.
(410) 888-0798 View (410) 888-0798
Photo of Judith Asner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Judith Asner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
This therapist opted out of Medicare & insurance panels. You may submit your bill to insurance, but not to Medicare— Why do people come to therapy? To learn to love & accept themselves, to change for the good, to live the way they want & to be their authentic selves. We go through a process of discovering how the difficulties of the past impact the present. We don’t just cut the weeds, we pull them out, so to speak.
This therapist opted out of Medicare & insurance panels. You may submit your bill to insurance, but not to Medicare— Why do people come to therapy? To learn to love & accept themselves, to change for the good, to live the way they want & to be their authentic selves. We go through a process of discovering how the difficulties of the past impact the present. We don’t just cut the weeds, we pull them out, so to speak.
(202) 746-4444 View (202) 746-4444
Photo of Shelby Asher Muhammedi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shelby Asher Muhammedi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Washington, DC 20016
Life doesn't always go the way we planned. Maybe you're a new parent feeling overwhelmed instead of overjoyed. Maybe your relationship has hit a rough patch and you're not sure how to reconnect. Or maybe you're just feeling stuck — like something is off, even if you can't quite name it. I'm Shelby, and I help people navigate these moments. I work with individuals and couples facing life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and the often-unspoken struggles of parenthood. I also offer preparation and integration support for those exploring psychedelic-assisted healing.
Life doesn't always go the way we planned. Maybe you're a new parent feeling overwhelmed instead of overjoyed. Maybe your relationship has hit a rough patch and you're not sure how to reconnect. Or maybe you're just feeling stuck — like something is off, even if you can't quite name it. I'm Shelby, and I help people navigate these moments. I work with individuals and couples facing life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and the often-unspoken struggles of parenthood. I also offer preparation and integration support for those exploring psychedelic-assisted healing.
(202) 930-9093 View (202) 930-9093
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 Ladan Eshkevari - Avesta Ketamine & Wellness , PhD, CRNA
Avesta Ketamine & Wellness
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Avesta Ketamine and Wellness is the premier provider of interventional psychiatric treatment, namely Ketamine infusions and Spravato, in DC, Virginia and Maryland for the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction and chronic pain such as EDS or CRPS. Our clinics have administered over 12,000 ketamine treatments since 2016 under the leadership of Dr. Ladan Eshkevari. As the longest-standing Ketamine and Spravato Clinic in DC, Maryland and Virginia and one of the first in the nation, our treatments are designed with the highest safety standards to assist you in achieving your optimal mental and physical wellness.
Avesta Ketamine and Wellness is the premier provider of interventional psychiatric treatment, namely Ketamine infusions and Spravato, in DC, Virginia and Maryland for the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction and chronic pain such as EDS or CRPS. Our clinics have administered over 12,000 ketamine treatments since 2016 under the leadership of Dr. Ladan Eshkevari. As the longest-standing Ketamine and Spravato Clinic in DC, Maryland and Virginia and one of the first in the nation, our treatments are designed with the highest safety standards to assist you in achieving your optimal mental and physical wellness.
(240) 986-3241 View (240) 986-3241
Photo of Joseph D. Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW , LCSW-C, LCSW
Joseph D. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW , LCSW-C, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Have you ever felt so "damaged" that when someone tries to offer you the love and care you deserve, it feels hard to accept? You're not alone, and healing is possible. I’m here to help you reclaim your sense of self-worth and build a meaningful, empowered future—no matter the pain of your past. I’m Joseph D. Williams, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, a Washington, DC-based Psychotherapist with over 23 years of experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, social anxiety, and substance use. I also provide Telehealth in MD, VA, & Georgia, so distance doesn't stop your path to wellness.
Have you ever felt so "damaged" that when someone tries to offer you the love and care you deserve, it feels hard to accept? You're not alone, and healing is possible. I’m here to help you reclaim your sense of self-worth and build a meaningful, empowered future—no matter the pain of your past. I’m Joseph D. Williams, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, a Washington, DC-based Psychotherapist with over 23 years of experience in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, social anxiety, and substance use. I also provide Telehealth in MD, VA, & Georgia, so distance doesn't stop your path to wellness.
(202) 951-9127 View (202) 951-9127
Photo of Andrea Mattison Fisher, Psychologist, PsyD
Andrea Mattison Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I work with children, teenagers, and adults facing some of life's most significant challenges- including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, family conflict, and the often complex work of identity and self-understanding. My work is grounded in psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that goes beyond managing symptoms to explore the deeper patterns, relationships, and experiences that shape how we think, feel, and move through the world. Regardless of age, my approach is warm and exploratory, guided by genuine curiosity about each person's inner world and a deep respect for their unique experience.
I work with children, teenagers, and adults facing some of life's most significant challenges- including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, family conflict, and the often complex work of identity and self-understanding. My work is grounded in psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that goes beyond managing symptoms to explore the deeper patterns, relationships, and experiences that shape how we think, feel, and move through the world. Regardless of age, my approach is warm and exploratory, guided by genuine curiosity about each person's inner world and a deep respect for their unique experience.
(202) 559-4850 View (202) 559-4850
Photo of Dr. Britt Lindon, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Britt Lindon
Psychologist, PhD
Washington, DC 20024
The pressure is relentless. So is the feeling that you're facing it alone. Maybe there's a constant hum of anxiety, a loneliness that lingers even when you have people around. You've tried things. They help, until they don't. Fair warning: I'm not what most people expect. But then again, neither are most of my clients. The bigger surprise, for most of them, is that something finally works. The medication that was supposed to fix it — didn't. Suggesting more journaling about it felt like an insult. I get it.
The pressure is relentless. So is the feeling that you're facing it alone. Maybe there's a constant hum of anxiety, a loneliness that lingers even when you have people around. You've tried things. They help, until they don't. Fair warning: I'm not what most people expect. But then again, neither are most of my clients. The bigger surprise, for most of them, is that something finally works. The medication that was supposed to fix it — didn't. Suggesting more journaling about it felt like an insult. I get it.
(202) 951-8662 View (202) 951-8662
Photo of Davene Ann Mathis - Coping Matters, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Coping Matters, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Serves Area
As a licensed clinical social worker in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Idaho, with over 13 years of clinical experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families, I am committed to helping you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether you're seeking help for yourself, your child, or your family, I offer a compassionate, collaborative, safe space for individual, group, and family counseling, both in-person and virtually, to ensure continued, accessible care that fits your life and needs.
As a licensed clinical social worker in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Idaho, with over 13 years of clinical experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families, I am committed to helping you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether you're seeking help for yourself, your child, or your family, I offer a compassionate, collaborative, safe space for individual, group, and family counseling, both in-person and virtually, to ensure continued, accessible care that fits your life and needs.
(540) 329-3921 View (540) 329-3921

See more therapy options for 20510

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20510

< 10

Therapists in 20510 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Marriage Counseling
67% Anxiety
67% Personality Disorders
67% Grief
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

35 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Therapists in 20510 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20510?

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.