Therapists in 22314

Photo of Jorge Wallace - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria, Counselor
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.
(571) 368-6526 View (571) 368-6526
Photo of Caroline Edgeton-Martin, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Caroline Edgeton-Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced the deep complexities of trauma, struggles in relationships, and the challenges that can come with identifying as, or questioning if they are, LGBTQIA+. Individuals may report feeling lonely, isolated, anxious, depressed, disconnected, confused, or insecure. While the specific needs of each individual are unique, my goal is for all individuals who work with me to feel that their needs are heard and supported in their healing journey.
I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced the deep complexities of trauma, struggles in relationships, and the challenges that can come with identifying as, or questioning if they are, LGBTQIA+. Individuals may report feeling lonely, isolated, anxious, depressed, disconnected, confused, or insecure. While the specific needs of each individual are unique, my goal is for all individuals who work with me to feel that their needs are heard and supported in their healing journey.
(571) 556-7026 View (571) 556-7026
Photo of Shelby Grant-Workman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Shelby Grant-Workman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Life is a journey of ups and downs. If you're facing uncertainty, feeling anxious/down, or navigating difficult transitions, you are not alone. Seeking support is a brave step toward finding change and fulfillment in your life. With a background as a preschool teacher and as a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a unique set of skills to create a safe space for children, teens, caregivers, and adults. In my practice, I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance with clients.
Life is a journey of ups and downs. If you're facing uncertainty, feeling anxious/down, or navigating difficult transitions, you are not alone. Seeking support is a brave step toward finding change and fulfillment in your life. With a background as a preschool teacher and as a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a unique set of skills to create a safe space for children, teens, caregivers, and adults. In my practice, I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance with clients.
(571) 554-5176 View (571) 554-5176
Photo of Jody Alperin, Psychologist, PsyD
Jody Alperin
Psychologist, PsyD
Alexandria, VA 22314
I have over 30 years of experience in private practice providing individual and couples therapy for adults. My work is grounded in a collaborative, integrative approach that is thoughtfully tailored to the unique needs of each client.
I have over 30 years of experience in private practice providing individual and couples therapy for adults. My work is grounded in a collaborative, integrative approach that is thoughtfully tailored to the unique needs of each client.
(703) 496-5860 View (703) 496-5860
Photo of Shabria Mayne, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Shabria Mayne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Presently not accepting new clients. Welcome to Mayne Counseling Services! Are you seeking support through a difficult season or need help gaining clarity in an area of your life? Do you have a teen who struggles with self-acceptance or the burdens of adolescence? My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space to allow for honest discussion about your concerns, struggles, and personal conflicts, hopes for your future, goals, and all other considerations pertaining to life.
Presently not accepting new clients. Welcome to Mayne Counseling Services! Are you seeking support through a difficult season or need help gaining clarity in an area of your life? Do you have a teen who struggles with self-acceptance or the burdens of adolescence? My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space to allow for honest discussion about your concerns, struggles, and personal conflicts, hopes for your future, goals, and all other considerations pertaining to life.
(571) 989-6784 View (571) 989-6784
Photo of Christina Madsen Fishback, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christina Madsen Fishback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
At Old Town Psychotherapy, the focus is maintaining confidentiality and privacy at all times in a caring, comfortable, and safe environment. My approach is based in humanistic therapy, which uses a positive approach to psychotherapy that focuses on a person's individual nature and looks at the whole person in their environment. I work collaboratively with clients to come up with a personalized approach that works for them. I have extensive experience with the military community, government community, and first responder commmunity.
At Old Town Psychotherapy, the focus is maintaining confidentiality and privacy at all times in a caring, comfortable, and safe environment. My approach is based in humanistic therapy, which uses a positive approach to psychotherapy that focuses on a person's individual nature and looks at the whole person in their environment. I work collaboratively with clients to come up with a personalized approach that works for them. I have extensive experience with the military community, government community, and first responder commmunity.
(571) 712-4390 View (571) 712-4390
Photo of Alyssa Goggan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Alyssa Goggan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Living with chronic illness can be deeply exhausting, affecting both the body and mind. Grief can feel isolating and heavy to hold. Life transitions may bring emotions that feel overwhelming or hard to articulate. Art therapy offers a creative, grounding way to process experiences beyond words while building tools for regulation, self-compassion, and long-term well-being. I work with children and adults, offering developmentally appropriate and trauma-informed counseling. If you're feeling stuck, are navigating grief or loss, or seeking to build healthy coping skills, I would be honored to support you.
Living with chronic illness can be deeply exhausting, affecting both the body and mind. Grief can feel isolating and heavy to hold. Life transitions may bring emotions that feel overwhelming or hard to articulate. Art therapy offers a creative, grounding way to process experiences beyond words while building tools for regulation, self-compassion, and long-term well-being. I work with children and adults, offering developmentally appropriate and trauma-informed counseling. If you're feeling stuck, are navigating grief or loss, or seeking to build healthy coping skills, I would be honored to support you.
(703) 997-6296 View (703) 997-6296
Photo of Petey Horton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Petey Horton
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Hey badasses and tenderhearts. I’m Petey, a sex educator and therapy intern making the taboo feel totally normal. I create inclusive, shame free spaces where you can show up as your full, messy, beautiful self. I work mostly with adults on sexual wellness, intimacy, identity, and unlearning sexual shame. I also support couples. I bring a mix of art and science to the therapy room with a background in bioethics, studio art, and counseling. If you are curious, questioning, healing, or just want to talk about the stuff no one else will, I am here for it. Let’s talk!
Hey badasses and tenderhearts. I’m Petey, a sex educator and therapy intern making the taboo feel totally normal. I create inclusive, shame free spaces where you can show up as your full, messy, beautiful self. I work mostly with adults on sexual wellness, intimacy, identity, and unlearning sexual shame. I also support couples. I bring a mix of art and science to the therapy room with a background in bioethics, studio art, and counseling. If you are curious, questioning, healing, or just want to talk about the stuff no one else will, I am here for it. Let’s talk!
(703) 457-8665 x1 View (703) 457-8665 x1
Photo of Pryndall M White, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Pryndall M White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Therapy is one's personal identified journey of trials, tribulations, highs-and-lows, and uncertainty. Clients who gravitate towards me are those who prefer transparency, engagement, no judgement, and genuine validation and assistance on their road to "who they themselves identify they want to be". Clients who work with me realize that days are difficult, as is change; however, they do not mind the reminders and encouraging sessions that enhance and challenge accountability and resiliency.
Therapy is one's personal identified journey of trials, tribulations, highs-and-lows, and uncertainty. Clients who gravitate towards me are those who prefer transparency, engagement, no judgement, and genuine validation and assistance on their road to "who they themselves identify they want to be". Clients who work with me realize that days are difficult, as is change; however, they do not mind the reminders and encouraging sessions that enhance and challenge accountability and resiliency.
(571) 200-8126 View (571) 200-8126
Photo of Chloe Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chloe Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Hi, I’m Chloe Wright, LCSW. I help adults and couples navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, identity issues, stress, and major life transitions. My approach is strengths-based and rooted in the person-in-environment framework, using CBT to foster growth and self-awareness. I strive to create a culturally aware and affirming space where every client, especially LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color, feels seen, supported, and empowered.
Hi, I’m Chloe Wright, LCSW. I help adults and couples navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, identity issues, stress, and major life transitions. My approach is strengths-based and rooted in the person-in-environment framework, using CBT to foster growth and self-awareness. I strive to create a culturally aware and affirming space where every client, especially LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color, feels seen, supported, and empowered.
(703) 783-3656 View (703) 783-3656
Photo of Abigail Levrini - Psych Ed Connections of Northern Virginia, Psychologist, PhD
Psych Ed Connections of Northern Virginia
Psychologist, PhD
6 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Looking for a proactive, goal-driven approach to therapy for ADHD, depression or anxiety? We are about action and getting things done. We use a pragmatic, behavioral, results-oriented approach. By focusing on strategies and tools to use in your daily life to improve behavior, we can connect your actions, thoughts, and emotions in new ways. Our program is a nationally recognized intervention and the topic of PEC owner, Dr. Abigail Levrini's second book, "ADHD Coaching: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals" (APA, 2015). We specialize in ADHD and Executive Function Disorders and related issues like depression and anxiety.
Looking for a proactive, goal-driven approach to therapy for ADHD, depression or anxiety? We are about action and getting things done. We use a pragmatic, behavioral, results-oriented approach. By focusing on strategies and tools to use in your daily life to improve behavior, we can connect your actions, thoughts, and emotions in new ways. Our program is a nationally recognized intervention and the topic of PEC owner, Dr. Abigail Levrini's second book, "ADHD Coaching: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals" (APA, 2015). We specialize in ADHD and Executive Function Disorders and related issues like depression and anxiety.
(571) 306-0952 View (571) 306-0952
Photo of Eliza Bonilla, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Eliza Bonilla
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life, or worried about your child’s well-being? You don’t have to go through it alone. Finding the right support can make all the difference. I work with children (ages 5+), teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and more. I also have experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those on the autism spectrum.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life, or worried about your child’s well-being? You don’t have to go through it alone. Finding the right support can make all the difference. I work with children (ages 5+), teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and more. I also have experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those on the autism spectrum.
(703) 705-2200 x1 View (703) 705-2200 x1
Photo of Kathryn Ziemer, Psychologist, PhD
Kathryn Ziemer
Psychologist, PhD
Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, infertility, and life coaching. What can you expect out of therapy? 1) Reducing symptoms: We’ll work together so you feel better as soon as possible by reducing your symptoms, whether it be feeling anxious or sleep problems. 2) Figuring out the root of your challenges: We’ll explore what caused you to feel this way in the first place so you can anticipate and prevent these challenges in the future. 3) Building your confidence going forward: You will learn and practice new skills that will help you feel confident overcoming future challenges.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, infertility, and life coaching. What can you expect out of therapy? 1) Reducing symptoms: We’ll work together so you feel better as soon as possible by reducing your symptoms, whether it be feeling anxious or sleep problems. 2) Figuring out the root of your challenges: We’ll explore what caused you to feel this way in the first place so you can anticipate and prevent these challenges in the future. 3) Building your confidence going forward: You will learn and practice new skills that will help you feel confident overcoming future challenges.
(571) 478-9499 View (571) 478-9499
Photo of Uma Kumar, Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R, NCC
Uma Kumar
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R, NCC
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Seeking therapy is difficult, and on top of that, trying to find the right therapist by clicking through profiles is daunting. Life presents us with challenges that leave us feeling out of control and unable to move forward. Therapy is about learning to speak about these issues, expressing your feelings, and learning healthy tools to cope and regain control. I bring experience working with diverse populations and issues, such as life transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and vocational stress. As an immigrant, I understand the complexities of balancing cultures, navigating environments, and striving for success.
Seeking therapy is difficult, and on top of that, trying to find the right therapist by clicking through profiles is daunting. Life presents us with challenges that leave us feeling out of control and unable to move forward. Therapy is about learning to speak about these issues, expressing your feelings, and learning healthy tools to cope and regain control. I bring experience working with diverse populations and issues, such as life transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and vocational stress. As an immigrant, I understand the complexities of balancing cultures, navigating environments, and striving for success.
(571) 506-3464 x1 View (571) 506-3464 x1
Photo of Dr. Anthony Koch, Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Dr. Anthony Koch
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
4 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Life can feel like carrying questions without answers, or living inside a story that doesn’t fully make sense. You may find yourself repeating patterns, feeling stuck, or longing for connection and ease. Beneath struggles with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or relational pain often lies a quiet wish to be seen, understood, and more fully alive. Therapy offers a space to listen to the hidden parts of your story, uncover what has been buried, and open new paths. Together we can build a relationship to explore your present concerns, gently unpack the past, and imagine the future with greater freedom.
Life can feel like carrying questions without answers, or living inside a story that doesn’t fully make sense. You may find yourself repeating patterns, feeling stuck, or longing for connection and ease. Beneath struggles with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or relational pain often lies a quiet wish to be seen, understood, and more fully alive. Therapy offers a space to listen to the hidden parts of your story, uncover what has been buried, and open new paths. Together we can build a relationship to explore your present concerns, gently unpack the past, and imagine the future with greater freedom.
(703) 596-3817 View (703) 596-3817
Photo of Judith Moses, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Judith Moses
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Alexandria, VA 22314
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure of where to turn next, you’re not alone. You deserve a space where you can slow down, breathe, and feel genuinely supported. I offer a calm, compassionate environment where you can share your story at your own pace and feel truly heard and understood. I help individuals, couples, and families move through anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, and life transitions with care and intention. My approach is warm, steady, and collaborative. Together, we gently explore what’s weighing on you and build practical tools that help you feel more grounded, connected, and emotionally safe.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure of where to turn next, you’re not alone. You deserve a space where you can slow down, breathe, and feel genuinely supported. I offer a calm, compassionate environment where you can share your story at your own pace and feel truly heard and understood. I help individuals, couples, and families move through anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, and life transitions with care and intention. My approach is warm, steady, and collaborative. Together, we gently explore what’s weighing on you and build practical tools that help you feel more grounded, connected, and emotionally safe.
(571) 982-8076 View (571) 982-8076
Photo of Binita Amin, Psychologist, Ph.D.
Binita Amin
Psychologist, Ph.D.
Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in working with high-functioning professionals who are succeeding by most external measures, yet privately feel overwhelmed, depleted, or disconnected from what matters most. Many of my clients work in demanding fields where performance expectations are high and vulnerability feels costly. Common concerns include chronic stress and burnout, high-functioning anxiety, depression, relationship strain, and navigating significant personal or professional transitions. My background working in corporate and government environments gives me firsthand familiarity with the pressures professionals in the DC-Virginia corridor face.
I specialize in working with high-functioning professionals who are succeeding by most external measures, yet privately feel overwhelmed, depleted, or disconnected from what matters most. Many of my clients work in demanding fields where performance expectations are high and vulnerability feels costly. Common concerns include chronic stress and burnout, high-functioning anxiety, depression, relationship strain, and navigating significant personal or professional transitions. My background working in corporate and government environments gives me firsthand familiarity with the pressures professionals in the DC-Virginia corridor face.
(571) 202-7052 View (571) 202-7052
Photo of Morgan Canner, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Morgan Canner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you wanting someone to speak with about the struggles you’ve been facing? I believe that one of the most important components to therapy is the client-counselor relationship. I aim to foster trusting relationships with all my clients so that they feel comfortable, safe, and supported in sharing any and all aspects of life. I have experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In working with my clients I utilize a Health at Every Size (HAES) approach and employ All Foods Fit and Intuitive Eating philosophies.
Are you wanting someone to speak with about the struggles you’ve been facing? I believe that one of the most important components to therapy is the client-counselor relationship. I aim to foster trusting relationships with all my clients so that they feel comfortable, safe, and supported in sharing any and all aspects of life. I have experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In working with my clients I utilize a Health at Every Size (HAES) approach and employ All Foods Fit and Intuitive Eating philosophies.
(703) 810-7322 View (703) 810-7322
Photo of Lazar Rodic, LPC Intern, LPC
Lazar Rodic
LPC Intern, LPC
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I approach each person’s story with respect for how their identities and life experiences shape who they are and how they move through the world. I often work with LGBTQIA+ clients and immigrants, and I understand the importance of creating a space where people feel seen, understood, and safe to be themselves.
I approach each person’s story with respect for how their identities and life experiences shape who they are and how they move through the world. I often work with LGBTQIA+ clients and immigrants, and I understand the importance of creating a space where people feel seen, understood, and safe to be themselves.
(703) 910-3674 View (703) 910-3674
Photo of Terra Dominguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Terra Dominguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Does your mind feel like it never shuts off—constantly overthinking, second-guessing, or trying to get everything “right”? You might replay conversations, analyze how you came across, or feel pressure to meet expectations, even when it’s exhausting. Small interactions can linger for hours, and your mind fills in the gaps with worst-case scenarios or self-criticism. Even when you try to let things go, your body stays tense, on edge, or unable to fully relax. From the outside, you seem put together; but internally, it feels like a constant loop of anxiety, pressure, and self-doubt you can’t turn off.
Does your mind feel like it never shuts off—constantly overthinking, second-guessing, or trying to get everything “right”? You might replay conversations, analyze how you came across, or feel pressure to meet expectations, even when it’s exhausting. Small interactions can linger for hours, and your mind fills in the gaps with worst-case scenarios or self-criticism. Even when you try to let things go, your body stays tense, on edge, or unable to fully relax. From the outside, you seem put together; but internally, it feels like a constant loop of anxiety, pressure, and self-doubt you can’t turn off.
(571) 617-7392 View (571) 617-7392

See more therapy options for 22314

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22314

800+

Average cost per session

$174

Therapists in 22314 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
96% Social Anxiety
96% Health Anxiety
96% Driving Anxiety
91% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Cigna and Evernorth
76% Aetna

How Therapists in 22314 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22314?

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.