Therapists in Vienna, VA

Photo of Anne C Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vienna, VA
Anne C Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22180  (Online Only)
Do you need support for problems in your life? Are you questioning things about yourself that you need help sorting out? Are you feeling anxious, irritable, stressed, confused, sad, or worried? Are you having problems in your relationship or struggling with leaving a relationship? Maybe you're not sure exactly what's wrong but you're not feeling as good as you would like. We can help you get back on track and enjoying life. If you've tried solving issues on your own or ignored them, but things have reached a point where you need help sorting them out, give me a call, we can talk about how we might help you to feel good again.
Do you need support for problems in your life? Are you questioning things about yourself that you need help sorting out? Are you feeling anxious, irritable, stressed, confused, sad, or worried? Are you having problems in your relationship or struggling with leaving a relationship? Maybe you're not sure exactly what's wrong but you're not feeling as good as you would like. We can help you get back on track and enjoying life. If you've tried solving issues on your own or ignored them, but things have reached a point where you need help sorting them out, give me a call, we can talk about how we might help you to feel good again.
(703) 389-1913 View (703) 389-1913
Photo of Virginia Family Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vienna, VA
Virginia Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
As the Director of Virginia Family Counseling, I work with a group of seasoned, highly skilled therapists who are caring, warm, dedicated and bring enthusiasm, humor, and over 20 years of experience to your healing process. We believe that people have wonderful strengths in many areas and can develop more by learning new tools through counseling. We believe that people usually do the best they can, but that normal life can be stressful and counseling can help people learn from painful situations. We believe in working as a partner with you to bring about the changes you want.
As the Director of Virginia Family Counseling, I work with a group of seasoned, highly skilled therapists who are caring, warm, dedicated and bring enthusiasm, humor, and over 20 years of experience to your healing process. We believe that people have wonderful strengths in many areas and can develop more by learning new tools through counseling. We believe that people usually do the best they can, but that normal life can be stressful and counseling can help people learn from painful situations. We believe in working as a partner with you to bring about the changes you want.
(703) 829-0982 View (703) 829-0982
Photo of Shelly Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vienna, VA
Shelly Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
Shelly enjoys helping individuals and families struggling to manage challenging life circumstances. She uses a strengths-based approach to encourage healing, life transitions and promoting a positive change in an individual’s life.
Shelly enjoys helping individuals and families struggling to manage challenging life circumstances. She uses a strengths-based approach to encourage healing, life transitions and promoting a positive change in an individual’s life.
(703) 255-7012 View (703) 255-7012
Photo of Chelsea Crawford in Vienna, VA
Chelsea Crawford
MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Chelsea, a Virginia-based psychotherapist dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive therapeutic space for young adults grappling with anxiety, depression, burnout, impostor syndrome, life/career transitions, self-medication with drugs and alcohol, or challenges creating meaningful relationships. I received my Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University, specializing in trauma-informed care and the profound ways in which macro-political, environmental, and systemic factors impact mental health.
Hi, I'm Chelsea, a Virginia-based psychotherapist dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive therapeutic space for young adults grappling with anxiety, depression, burnout, impostor syndrome, life/career transitions, self-medication with drugs and alcohol, or challenges creating meaningful relationships. I received my Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University, specializing in trauma-informed care and the profound ways in which macro-political, environmental, and systemic factors impact mental health.
(571) 562-7359 View (571) 562-7359
Photo of Kara Bath, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vienna, VA
Kara Bath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22180
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck or hopeless and not sure what to do? Having trouble with your spouse, child or other important people in your life? My passion is to collaboratively work with you to be better able to live life to its fullest and to foster healthier connections with the important people in your life. I am committed to teaming with you to foster the change and growth you want and deserve in your life.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck or hopeless and not sure what to do? Having trouble with your spouse, child or other important people in your life? My passion is to collaboratively work with you to be better able to live life to its fullest and to foster healthier connections with the important people in your life. I am committed to teaming with you to foster the change and growth you want and deserve in your life.
(703) 940-1945 View (703) 940-1945
Photo of Cori Leigh Guevara, Counselor in Vienna, VA
Cori Leigh Guevara
Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22182  (Online Only)
Cori is an person-centered therapist who specializes in Trauma Informed Art Therapy. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from Longwood University in 2017, and her Master of Science in Art Therapy and Counseling from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2019. She spent her counseling residency providing Trauma-Systems-Therapy for Refugees and Public School Counseling in Maine. Cori now holds a full license in Virginia and Maine, as well as, national licensure as a Board Certified Art Therapist. Currently, she is incorporating EMDR into virtual therapy sessions through Bridge to Wellness Centers LLC.
Cori is an person-centered therapist who specializes in Trauma Informed Art Therapy. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from Longwood University in 2017, and her Master of Science in Art Therapy and Counseling from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2019. She spent her counseling residency providing Trauma-Systems-Therapy for Refugees and Public School Counseling in Maine. Cori now holds a full license in Virginia and Maine, as well as, national licensure as a Board Certified Art Therapist. Currently, she is incorporating EMDR into virtual therapy sessions through Bridge to Wellness Centers LLC.
(804) 531-6865 View (804) 531-6865
Photo of David S Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vienna, VA
David S Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
Waitlist for new clients
Becoming a therapist came naturally to me.....from my parents. My Father imparted a genuine interest in people along with an engaging wit, and my Mother graced me with her patience, profound kindness and empathy for all living things. The balance of my preparation required planning: acquiring extensive professional experience and excellent clinical training that shaped me into the therapist that I currently am. It's my belief that the process of psychotherapy, done well, can be uplifting through many of the challenges, ordinary and extraordinary, that living can present.
Becoming a therapist came naturally to me.....from my parents. My Father imparted a genuine interest in people along with an engaging wit, and my Mother graced me with her patience, profound kindness and empathy for all living things. The balance of my preparation required planning: acquiring extensive professional experience and excellent clinical training that shaped me into the therapist that I currently am. It's my belief that the process of psychotherapy, done well, can be uplifting through many of the challenges, ordinary and extraordinary, that living can present.
(703) 596-8671 View (703) 596-8671
Photo of Miki Bakhtar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vienna, VA
Miki Bakhtar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22181
I, Hossein (Miki) Bakhtar, have been a counselor in the field of Psychology for over 25 years, working with individuals and couples to help them exchange intensity and drama or isolation and loneliness for intimacy, respect, appreciation and love. "My job is to get you well enough so that you don't need me anymore." Whether it be for a mental health issue, or relationship or other treatment, the philosophical vision of the right intervention program is critical in determining the right place for you or a family member to heal.
I, Hossein (Miki) Bakhtar, have been a counselor in the field of Psychology for over 25 years, working with individuals and couples to help them exchange intensity and drama or isolation and loneliness for intimacy, respect, appreciation and love. "My job is to get you well enough so that you don't need me anymore." Whether it be for a mental health issue, or relationship or other treatment, the philosophical vision of the right intervention program is critical in determining the right place for you or a family member to heal.
(703) 935-5701 View (703) 935-5701
Photo of Katie Rosenthal, Licensed Master's Social Worker in Vienna, VA
Katie Rosenthal
Licensed Master's Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182  (Online Only)
I believe in creating a calm, approachable, and non-judgmental space for clients to share their thoughts and emotions openly. Through empathy, acceptance, and support, I work from a holistic and strength-based perspective of clients' needs. By exploring and processing inner thoughts and feelings, clients can better understand their situation and ultimately move towards positive change. I offer insight into clients' patterns of behavior and help to identify and build new or existing skills with the purpose of uncovering clients' true potential.
I believe in creating a calm, approachable, and non-judgmental space for clients to share their thoughts and emotions openly. Through empathy, acceptance, and support, I work from a holistic and strength-based perspective of clients' needs. By exploring and processing inner thoughts and feelings, clients can better understand their situation and ultimately move towards positive change. I offer insight into clients' patterns of behavior and help to identify and build new or existing skills with the purpose of uncovering clients' true potential.
(571) 982-8613 View (571) 982-8613
Photo of Tania Alfaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vienna, VA
Tania Alfaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
I have a BA from Radford University and an MS in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I enjoy working with a broad spectrum of individuals from diverse backgrounds. I am bilingual, English and Spanish, and I offer a sliding fee scale. Providing tools, emotional support, and education to those in need is a passion of mine. I have experience working with adolescents and adults suffering from complex traumas as well as providing a variety of community support resources to individuals and families.
I have a BA from Radford University and an MS in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I enjoy working with a broad spectrum of individuals from diverse backgrounds. I am bilingual, English and Spanish, and I offer a sliding fee scale. Providing tools, emotional support, and education to those in need is a passion of mine. I have experience working with adolescents and adults suffering from complex traumas as well as providing a variety of community support resources to individuals and families.
(571) 620-6948 View (571) 620-6948
Photo of Myra Binns Bridgforth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vienna, VA
Myra Binns Bridgforth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22181
My goal is to help you get unstuck. You will begin to feel better just by taking the first step. Serious problems often need someone to both listen and offer alternative ways for thinking in order to make changes that last. Doing nothing and just hoping and wishing that things will get better doesn't work. I will prompt you and support you in taking concrete steps. I talk straight, listen closely and respectfully ask good questions. Starting with our first session, you will begin to figure out a new way to go. Let's talk soon about beginning.
My goal is to help you get unstuck. You will begin to feel better just by taking the first step. Serious problems often need someone to both listen and offer alternative ways for thinking in order to make changes that last. Doing nothing and just hoping and wishing that things will get better doesn't work. I will prompt you and support you in taking concrete steps. I talk straight, listen closely and respectfully ask good questions. Starting with our first session, you will begin to figure out a new way to go. Let's talk soon about beginning.
(571) 220-6270 View (571) 220-6270
Photo of Loretta McCommas, Resident in Counseling in Vienna, VA
Loretta McCommas
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
Worried, anxious, depressed, lonely, isolated, struggling with addiction, low self-esteem - these are the struggles of so many adults and teens in today's world. But you dont have to face the challenges of a difficult world alone. As a therapist my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can name and process your thoughts and emotions with honesty and compassion, and not be alone. If you are considering counseling but feel unsure, please feel free to reach out to me by emailing or calling with any questions. I would love the opportunity to meet you.
Worried, anxious, depressed, lonely, isolated, struggling with addiction, low self-esteem - these are the struggles of so many adults and teens in today's world. But you dont have to face the challenges of a difficult world alone. As a therapist my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can name and process your thoughts and emotions with honesty and compassion, and not be alone. If you are considering counseling but feel unsure, please feel free to reach out to me by emailing or calling with any questions. I would love the opportunity to meet you.
(571) 520-4587 View (571) 520-4587
Photo of Miriam Gibbs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vienna, VA
Miriam Gibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
My practice is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy where we examine how thoughts, feelings and behaviors all connect helping us to see core beliefs that may not be serving us. This leads to identifying and changing behavior patterns that are not working- ones that may ultimately hold you back from experiencing more fulfilling relationships and a more meaningful life. These powerful tools can be of great help in this important work.
My practice is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy where we examine how thoughts, feelings and behaviors all connect helping us to see core beliefs that may not be serving us. This leads to identifying and changing behavior patterns that are not working- ones that may ultimately hold you back from experiencing more fulfilling relationships and a more meaningful life. These powerful tools can be of great help in this important work.
(571) 207-9532 View (571) 207-9532
Photo of Laurie Nathan-Furtuna, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vienna, VA
Laurie Nathan-Furtuna
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
I approach my clients from a relational perspective. I value attachment and strength-based modalities in developing a genuine relationship with each client so that healing and lasting change can take place. Through this relational approach, clients have the opportunity to gain perspective on their experienced difficulties and expand their insight into the root causes of these difficulties. I also strongly believe in bringing a holistic perspective to understand and support my clients’ growth. I feel that all clients need a different clinical approach to best meet their unique needs.
I approach my clients from a relational perspective. I value attachment and strength-based modalities in developing a genuine relationship with each client so that healing and lasting change can take place. Through this relational approach, clients have the opportunity to gain perspective on their experienced difficulties and expand their insight into the root causes of these difficulties. I also strongly believe in bringing a holistic perspective to understand and support my clients’ growth. I feel that all clients need a different clinical approach to best meet their unique needs.
(571) 248-3352 View (571) 248-3352
Photo of Caroline Edgeton-Martin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vienna, VA
Caroline Edgeton-Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
I completed my BA in English and Journalism from Wake Forest University and my M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. My studies were multiculturally informed and focused on serving LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing mental health care to underserved communities, and relationship/intimacy counseling. I am currently a resident in counseling working towards LPC licensure in the state of Virginia. My aim is to create a brave space for you to feel safe being vulnerable without judgment. I provide a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach.
I completed my BA in English and Journalism from Wake Forest University and my M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling at the University of Pennsylvania. My studies were multiculturally informed and focused on serving LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing mental health care to underserved communities, and relationship/intimacy counseling. I am currently a resident in counseling working towards LPC licensure in the state of Virginia. My aim is to create a brave space for you to feel safe being vulnerable without judgment. I provide a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach.
(571) 554-5640 View (571) 554-5640
Photo of Helix Counseling & Coaching Services Samar Tehrai, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Vienna, VA
Helix Counseling & Coaching Services Samar Tehrai
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LSATP, CATCIV, CSAC
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22182
Helping you find your path, your reasons, and desires are the focus of my treatment approach. I believe treatment is a path and together we can walk along your discoveries to recover from addiction, that is my commitment to you. I have extensive experience in addiction counseling/co-occurring disorders. I believe in the disease model of addiction and the family model, and recognize that by strengthening the family structure, families live healthier lives. I also recognize that addictions can be a learned behavior which can be controlled. For that, I view the 12 step model as support for treatment.
Helping you find your path, your reasons, and desires are the focus of my treatment approach. I believe treatment is a path and together we can walk along your discoveries to recover from addiction, that is my commitment to you. I have extensive experience in addiction counseling/co-occurring disorders. I believe in the disease model of addiction and the family model, and recognize that by strengthening the family structure, families live healthier lives. I also recognize that addictions can be a learned behavior which can be controlled. For that, I view the 12 step model as support for treatment.
(571) 446-4468 View (571) 446-4468
Photo of Cecilia Graves, Resident in Counseling in Vienna, VA
Cecilia Graves
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180  (Online Only)
Maternal mental health has become my expertise, particularly in addressing the complexities of postpartum anxiety, depression, and relationship changes that happen postpartum. I have a strong passion for equipping parents with the vital skills required to cultivate a wholesome and nurturing environment for their children while also juggling the realitys of modern day living.
Maternal mental health has become my expertise, particularly in addressing the complexities of postpartum anxiety, depression, and relationship changes that happen postpartum. I have a strong passion for equipping parents with the vital skills required to cultivate a wholesome and nurturing environment for their children while also juggling the realitys of modern day living.
(571) 496-8156 View (571) 496-8156
Photo of Jennifer Byrnes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vienna, VA
Jennifer Byrnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
Did your ideal pregnancy and birth experience come to fruition, or were there unexpected complications and challenges that left you feeling distressed and confused? While it is the hope everyone will get to have the experience they wish for and deserve; unfortunately, many parents encounter complications or trauma before, during, and after this process. I want to do whatever I can to help mothers and parents avoid and/or heal from complications in the perinatal period. While I have a speciality in perinatal mental health, I also work well with non-perinatal clients who have experienced a myriad of traumatic experiences.
Did your ideal pregnancy and birth experience come to fruition, or were there unexpected complications and challenges that left you feeling distressed and confused? While it is the hope everyone will get to have the experience they wish for and deserve; unfortunately, many parents encounter complications or trauma before, during, and after this process. I want to do whatever I can to help mothers and parents avoid and/or heal from complications in the perinatal period. While I have a speciality in perinatal mental health, I also work well with non-perinatal clients who have experienced a myriad of traumatic experiences.
(571) 451-2200 View (571) 451-2200
Photo of Sallie Twentyman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vienna, VA
Sallie Twentyman, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22180
Not accepting new clients
NOTE:. As of Jan. 1, 2022, my practice is closed to new clients. Past clients should feel free to contact me to see if I have availability to see them but should be aware that I currently do only televideo sessions. Making the decision to seek therapy is an important one, and it generally stirs up a mixture of feelings, including both excitement and anxiety. I focus on helping my clients feel safe in sharing their difficulties and goals and in assessing their needs. I work to help clients to find meaning and strategies to move past old patterns to live well in the present.
NOTE:. As of Jan. 1, 2022, my practice is closed to new clients. Past clients should feel free to contact me to see if I have availability to see them but should be aware that I currently do only televideo sessions. Making the decision to seek therapy is an important one, and it generally stirs up a mixture of feelings, including both excitement and anxiety. I focus on helping my clients feel safe in sharing their difficulties and goals and in assessing their needs. I work to help clients to find meaning and strategies to move past old patterns to live well in the present.
(703) 991-5574 View (703) 991-5574
Photo of Despina Boudouvas-Mannos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vienna, VA
Despina Boudouvas-Mannos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22182
The cornerstone of successful therapy is the relationship developed between the client and therapist. I pride myself on developing trusting, supportive, and collaborative working relationships with clients. I tailor my approach to individual clients by helping them to identify and develop goals specific to their personal needs. In targeting identified areas of need, I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities. Families play a crucial role in the therapeutic process. I actively collaborate with parents to help them support their children working through their particular challenges. I work collaboratively with schools and other involved care providers to facilitate optimal treatment outcomes.
The cornerstone of successful therapy is the relationship developed between the client and therapist. I pride myself on developing trusting, supportive, and collaborative working relationships with clients. I tailor my approach to individual clients by helping them to identify and develop goals specific to their personal needs. In targeting identified areas of need, I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities. Families play a crucial role in the therapeutic process. I actively collaborate with parents to help them support their children working through their particular challenges. I work collaboratively with schools and other involved care providers to facilitate optimal treatment outcomes.
(703) 997-6183 View (703) 997-6183

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Vienna, VA

300+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Vienna, VA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
76% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
69% Coping Skills
67% Grief
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% Cigna and Evernorth
62% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Vienna, VA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Vienna?

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.