Therapists in 22202

Photo of Brooke Leigh Williams, Occupational Therapist, MS, OTR/L, LSVT
Brooke Leigh Williams
Occupational Therapist, MS, OTR/L, LSVT
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
I help teens and adults who feel overwhelmed, scattered, or stuck. Many of my clients are navigating burnout, ADHD, autism, anxiety, or sensory overload. They’re tired of masking, falling behind, or feeling like they “should” be able to do more. They may struggle with emotional regulation, executive dysfunction, or daily routines, and they’re not looking for more talk therapy. They want real, functional support to feel more capable, calm, and in control of their life. If that’s you, you’re not alone, and occupational therapy might be the missing piece.
I help teens and adults who feel overwhelmed, scattered, or stuck. Many of my clients are navigating burnout, ADHD, autism, anxiety, or sensory overload. They’re tired of masking, falling behind, or feeling like they “should” be able to do more. They may struggle with emotional regulation, executive dysfunction, or daily routines, and they’re not looking for more talk therapy. They want real, functional support to feel more capable, calm, and in control of their life. If that’s you, you’re not alone, and occupational therapy might be the missing piece.
(571) 946-5374 View (571) 946-5374
Photo of Alexa Weatherly, Psychologist, PsyD
Alexa Weatherly
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety in its many forms, such as unrelenting worry, avoidance, and/or compulsions. I take a collaborative and cognitive-behavioral approach to quickly get my clients working toward a more appropriate level of functioning, which is different for everyone. We will work together to identify what is most important to you, and create goals that enable you to live a life that is more in line with your values. Treatment also entails gathering and analyzing data about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to better understand their relationship.
I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety in its many forms, such as unrelenting worry, avoidance, and/or compulsions. I take a collaborative and cognitive-behavioral approach to quickly get my clients working toward a more appropriate level of functioning, which is different for everyone. We will work together to identify what is most important to you, and create goals that enable you to live a life that is more in line with your values. Treatment also entails gathering and analyzing data about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to better understand their relationship.
(571) 518-5276 View (571) 518-5276
Photo of Keren Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor, L, P, C
Keren Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, L, P, C
Arlington, VA 22202
Going thru life transitions can be tough. Whether it's relocating to the DMV, changing careers (voluntarily or not), becoming a parent for the first time, dealing with a breakup, or simply finding yourself needing more support than before, you don't have to go thru it alone. Together we can explore how your needs have changed, what is no longer working, and a pathway forward.
Going thru life transitions can be tough. Whether it's relocating to the DMV, changing careers (voluntarily or not), becoming a parent for the first time, dealing with a breakup, or simply finding yourself needing more support than before, you don't have to go thru it alone. Together we can explore how your needs have changed, what is no longer working, and a pathway forward.
(571) 596-7606 View (571) 596-7606
Photo of Dr. Zeleyka Fowler - Dr. Zeleyka Fowler Licensed in VA, DC, and MD , Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Zeleyka Fowler Licensed in VA, DC, and MD
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
Making the decision to begin therapy can elicit a variety of emotions. I strive to inspire empowerment and creativity in a therapeutic space that is warm, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs. I have a plethora of experience working with people in various stages of their lives. In my career, I have worked closely with high achieving professionals, veterans, university students, couples, parents, and families. Together, we have navigated a wide array of life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual wellness, chronic health concerns, identity development, and legacy work.
Making the decision to begin therapy can elicit a variety of emotions. I strive to inspire empowerment and creativity in a therapeutic space that is warm, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs. I have a plethora of experience working with people in various stages of their lives. In my career, I have worked closely with high achieving professionals, veterans, university students, couples, parents, and families. Together, we have navigated a wide array of life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual wellness, chronic health concerns, identity development, and legacy work.
(571) 366-4404 View (571) 366-4404
Photo of Aaron M Valdes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Aaron M Valdes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Arlington, VA 22202
I have over 25 years of experience as a therapist and mental health professional in the Northern Virginia region. I specialize in child and adolescent issues and I have supported parents with skill-building throughout my career. If you are an individual struggling with day to day challenges, I can help you identify new skills and use your strengths to meet your needs. I am fully bilingual in Spanish and can conduct sessions is Spanish if preferred. For professionals seeking your VA license, I am a certified supervisor with extensive experience providing clinical supervision to meet your requirements as a Resident in Counseling.
I have over 25 years of experience as a therapist and mental health professional in the Northern Virginia region. I specialize in child and adolescent issues and I have supported parents with skill-building throughout my career. If you are an individual struggling with day to day challenges, I can help you identify new skills and use your strengths to meet your needs. I am fully bilingual in Spanish and can conduct sessions is Spanish if preferred. For professionals seeking your VA license, I am a certified supervisor with extensive experience providing clinical supervision to meet your requirements as a Resident in Counseling.
(571) 200-4668 View (571) 200-4668
Photo of Lauren Diaz, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Lauren Diaz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Arlington, VA 22202
Therapy is an intimate act of storytelling, and I aim to make therapy a safe and supportive space where you can explore your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences, and feel more grounded in who you are. I see therapy as a collaborative process where you and I can work together to understand your past, navigate the present, and move toward change in your future. I have experience working with adults, couples, and adolescents navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and interpersonal issues, and life transitions.
Therapy is an intimate act of storytelling, and I aim to make therapy a safe and supportive space where you can explore your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences, and feel more grounded in who you are. I see therapy as a collaborative process where you and I can work together to understand your past, navigate the present, and move toward change in your future. I have experience working with adults, couples, and adolescents navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and interpersonal issues, and life transitions.
(703) 782-5731 View (703) 782-5731
Photo of Candy Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, LSW, EMDR-T
Candy Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, LSW, EMDR-T
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
Hi, I’m Candy — a bilingual (Spanish/English) Latina therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and infertility. I help women who feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Whether you're navigating past trauma, chronic anxiety, depression, life transition stress, fertility struggles, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, you deserve a space where you feel supported and truly understood. I am in network with most insurances, feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Hi, I’m Candy — a bilingual (Spanish/English) Latina therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and infertility. I help women who feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Whether you're navigating past trauma, chronic anxiety, depression, life transition stress, fertility struggles, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, you deserve a space where you feel supported and truly understood. I am in network with most insurances, feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
(954) 932-7573 View (954) 932-7573
Photo of Philip Scrofani, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Philip Scrofani
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Arlington, VA 22202
Middle aged/senior issues; loss, illnesses, cancer, etc. A Christian/Catholic based approach to the dignity of the human person but I welcome people of all world views. Over 30 years of experience as a clinical psychologist, mental health administrator and graduate educator. I treat people individually and in groups from a family orientation.
Middle aged/senior issues; loss, illnesses, cancer, etc. A Christian/Catholic based approach to the dignity of the human person but I welcome people of all world views. Over 30 years of experience as a clinical psychologist, mental health administrator and graduate educator. I treat people individually and in groups from a family orientation.
(703) 348-0698 View (703) 348-0698
Photo of Kellie Zundel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kellie Zundel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
Living with an eating disorder can impact everything in your life in a negative way. You don't have to continue to feel so trapped. Maybe you struggle with binge eating or bulimia and each time you binge you tell yourself it will be the last time-but it never is. You feel tired of the constant battle. Or perhaps you struggle with anorexia and are terrified of gaining weight. Part of you may want recovery and part of you may feel really scared. You may not even remember what it felt like to "eat normally." Full recovery from an eating disorder is possible-I can help.
Living with an eating disorder can impact everything in your life in a negative way. You don't have to continue to feel so trapped. Maybe you struggle with binge eating or bulimia and each time you binge you tell yourself it will be the last time-but it never is. You feel tired of the constant battle. Or perhaps you struggle with anorexia and are terrified of gaining weight. Part of you may want recovery and part of you may feel really scared. You may not even remember what it felt like to "eat normally." Full recovery from an eating disorder is possible-I can help.
(571) 336-0958 View (571) 336-0958
Photo of Lyzbeth Monard-Eguren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lyzbeth Monard-Eguren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Arlington, VA 22202
I work with couples at all stages of their relationship- from those preparing for marriage to long-term partners navigating stress, conflict, or disconnection. Many of my clients are professionals balancing busy lives, parenting, and relationship demands. They often come to therapy feeling unheard or unsure how to move forward. My role is to help them find clarity, rebuild trust, and create a more satisfying partnership.I believe that healthy relationships are built on empathy, respect, and open communication. Everyone has the capacity to grow when given the right support.
I work with couples at all stages of their relationship- from those preparing for marriage to long-term partners navigating stress, conflict, or disconnection. Many of my clients are professionals balancing busy lives, parenting, and relationship demands. They often come to therapy feeling unheard or unsure how to move forward. My role is to help them find clarity, rebuild trust, and create a more satisfying partnership.I believe that healthy relationships are built on empathy, respect, and open communication. Everyone has the capacity to grow when given the right support.
(571) 609-5969 View (571) 609-5969
Photo of Bitna Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bitna Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
Welcome! I’m a millennial Asian therapist based in Texas and Virginia. I began seeing clients in 2014 and have been dedicated to the mental health field ever since. My ideal clients would be individuals who want to work on relationship trauma (romantic, social, or family), grief and loss, stress related to pregnancy or fertility treatments, cultural /identity concerns or life transitions. Even if your concerns don’t fall into these areas, that’s completely okay! I value working with clients on a wide range of issues. No matter your cultural background, I would be honored to hear your story.
Welcome! I’m a millennial Asian therapist based in Texas and Virginia. I began seeing clients in 2014 and have been dedicated to the mental health field ever since. My ideal clients would be individuals who want to work on relationship trauma (romantic, social, or family), grief and loss, stress related to pregnancy or fertility treatments, cultural /identity concerns or life transitions. Even if your concerns don’t fall into these areas, that’s completely okay! I value working with clients on a wide range of issues. No matter your cultural background, I would be honored to hear your story.
(737) 295-4189 View (737) 295-4189
Photo of Crystal Mari Bettenhausen-Bubulka - Strength In Service: Therapy and Clinical SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSG
Strength In Service: Therapy and Clinical SW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSG
Arlington, VA 22202
Life in the military is hard. Deployments stretch you thin. Moves uproot your life every few years. Your kids struggle to make friends. Your career feels impossible. TRICARE fails you when you need help most. And everyone keeps telling you to "be resilient"—like you haven't been resilient enough already. You Don't Have to Do This Alone.
Life in the military is hard. Deployments stretch you thin. Moves uproot your life every few years. Your kids struggle to make friends. Your career feels impossible. TRICARE fails you when you need help most. And everyone keeps telling you to "be resilient"—like you haven't been resilient enough already. You Don't Have to Do This Alone.
(800) 430-5844 x1 View (800) 430-5844 x1
Photo of Glen Robert Aitken Jr, Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC, CCPT
Glen Robert Aitken Jr
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC, CCPT
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
If you are struggling with emotional, interpersonal, and addiction issues or trying to manage the effects of a traumatic event just to make it through the day, it can be difficulty to navigate your life at times. These things can have you feeling lost and defeated and may change the way we see ourselves and the world around us. It can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. Our sense of spirituality and our relationships suffer the consequences of our mental health and decrease our quality of life. If any of this sounds familiar to you, it may be time to reach out.
If you are struggling with emotional, interpersonal, and addiction issues or trying to manage the effects of a traumatic event just to make it through the day, it can be difficulty to navigate your life at times. These things can have you feeling lost and defeated and may change the way we see ourselves and the world around us. It can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. Our sense of spirituality and our relationships suffer the consequences of our mental health and decrease our quality of life. If any of this sounds familiar to you, it may be time to reach out.
(561) 375-2827 View (561) 375-2827
Photo of Dr. Barbara J. Brown - CapitolHill Consortium Counseling & Consultation, Psychologist, PhD
CapitolHill Consortium Counseling & Consultation
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
Dr. Barbara J. Brown is a Psychologist/Founder/CEO of Capitol Hill Consortium for Counseling & Consultation LLC (CCCC). We have a multicultural staff to serve children, adolescents, and adults. We believe that psychotherapy is a right, not a privilege and we practice health equity by providing high quality care that is accessible and culturally responsive. We focus on the whole person and the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of the self. Those who have undergone the process are often healthier than those who have not. Please visit our website or call 202-544-5440 for an appointment.
Dr. Barbara J. Brown is a Psychologist/Founder/CEO of Capitol Hill Consortium for Counseling & Consultation LLC (CCCC). We have a multicultural staff to serve children, adolescents, and adults. We believe that psychotherapy is a right, not a privilege and we practice health equity by providing high quality care that is accessible and culturally responsive. We focus on the whole person and the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of the self. Those who have undergone the process are often healthier than those who have not. Please visit our website or call 202-544-5440 for an appointment.
(703) 413-3028 View (703) 413-3028
Photo of Monique Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CCTP-II, RPYT
Monique Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CCTP-II, RPYT
Arlington, VA 22202
I take a holistic, person center approach in treatment and enjoy meeting people where they are. I do utilize motivational interviewing skills and help in guiding towards healthy ways to cope. I enjoy working with all populations but specialize with 10+. I have a background working with dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA+, post crisis care treatment, grief, behavioral and mood disorders, eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, and trauma. If your preference is for in person, I have a waitlist with CapitolHill Consortium for Counseling & Consultation LLC information for the practice will be provided and coordination will be done on my part to assist.
I take a holistic, person center approach in treatment and enjoy meeting people where they are. I do utilize motivational interviewing skills and help in guiding towards healthy ways to cope. I enjoy working with all populations but specialize with 10+. I have a background working with dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA+, post crisis care treatment, grief, behavioral and mood disorders, eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, and trauma. If your preference is for in person, I have a waitlist with CapitolHill Consortium for Counseling & Consultation LLC information for the practice will be provided and coordination will be done on my part to assist.
(571) 609-6458 View (571) 609-6458
Photo of Helen Freiling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Helen Freiling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Arlington, VA 22202
A unique perspective of persons as inherently dignified, supported by philosophic and scientific education and study, informs my holistic view of the person sitting in front of me during the process of psychotherapy. With mindful attentiveness and by gently confronting obstacles and threats to emotional health and relational satisfaction in a collaborative manner, the patients I work with are able to experience an increase in personal resilience simultaneous to undergoing the process of cathartic healing. My use of techniques drawn from an array of professional proclivities creates a safe relationship that nourishes innate strengths
A unique perspective of persons as inherently dignified, supported by philosophic and scientific education and study, informs my holistic view of the person sitting in front of me during the process of psychotherapy. With mindful attentiveness and by gently confronting obstacles and threats to emotional health and relational satisfaction in a collaborative manner, the patients I work with are able to experience an increase in personal resilience simultaneous to undergoing the process of cathartic healing. My use of techniques drawn from an array of professional proclivities creates a safe relationship that nourishes innate strengths
(240) 541-5702 View (240) 541-5702
Photo of Fox Vernon, Psychologist, PhD
Fox Vernon
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a therapist and musician, I work to create a space that welcomes and inspires you to see new possibilities, discover your inner voice, create deeper connections in your life, and move steadily toward your dreams.
As a therapist and musician, I work to create a space that welcomes and inspires you to see new possibilities, discover your inner voice, create deeper connections in your life, and move steadily toward your dreams.
(703) 957-7601 View (703) 957-7601
Photo of Kristin S Swanson, Psychologist, PsyD
Kristin S Swanson
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Early childhood is a time of tremendous growth. Young children's ability to communicate, solve problems, socialize, and understand feelings is constantly evolving. They gain independence and confidence, experience joy in successes, and learn how to persevere. Ups and downs during this progression are normal, and your child's development can be smooth sailing one moment, and rocky the next. But, what happens when the moments of struggle overshadow the success? When your child experiences symptoms that impact his mood and behavior, social relationships, school performance, or your family's overall well-being, it may be time to seek help.
Early childhood is a time of tremendous growth. Young children's ability to communicate, solve problems, socialize, and understand feelings is constantly evolving. They gain independence and confidence, experience joy in successes, and learn how to persevere. Ups and downs during this progression are normal, and your child's development can be smooth sailing one moment, and rocky the next. But, what happens when the moments of struggle overshadow the success? When your child experiences symptoms that impact his mood and behavior, social relationships, school performance, or your family's overall well-being, it may be time to seek help.
(703) 991-6070 View (703) 991-6070
Photo of Dr. Chava Nerenberg, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Chava Nerenberg
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Chava Nerenberg is highly specialized in treating Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and developmental trauma resulting from prolonged adversity, as well as acute trauma and vicarious trauma. Dr. Nerenberg also offers LGBTQ+ affirming care for issues including gender affirmation, identity exploration, and minority stress. Using an integrative approach, she incorporates gold standard evidence based treatments to help clients break free from unhelpful patterns and build resilience. She also treats OCD using ERP and addresses mind-body concerns like insomnia (CBT-I) and chronic illness.
Dr. Chava Nerenberg is highly specialized in treating Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and developmental trauma resulting from prolonged adversity, as well as acute trauma and vicarious trauma. Dr. Nerenberg also offers LGBTQ+ affirming care for issues including gender affirmation, identity exploration, and minority stress. Using an integrative approach, she incorporates gold standard evidence based treatments to help clients break free from unhelpful patterns and build resilience. She also treats OCD using ERP and addresses mind-body concerns like insomnia (CBT-I) and chronic illness.
(240) 923-7864 View (240) 923-7864
Photo of Paola Rodriguez, Resident in Counseling, MA
Paola Rodriguez
Resident in Counseling, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Reaching out for support takes courage and you deserve to feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, therapy can be a space to reconnect with yourself and move toward the life you want. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can heal at your own pace and rediscover your inner strength.
Reaching out for support takes courage and you deserve to feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, therapy can be a space to reconnect with yourself and move toward the life you want. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can heal at your own pace and rediscover your inner strength.
(571) 609-5465 View (571) 609-5465

See more therapy options for 22202

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22202

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 22202 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
75% Stress
72% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
59% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
72% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 22202 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
15% Male
5% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22202?

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.