Therapists in 23508

Photo of Jessica Richards, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Jessica Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
I work with teens, college students, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. My office is located near Old Dominion University, making therapy especially accessible for students. I also have a special passion for supporting individuals in the perinatal and postpartum period, helping new parents feel more grounded, connected, and supported. I believe therapy works best when it feels real. My style is relational, collaborative, and empowering — I show up as a genuine person in the room, using both humor and honesty to create a safe, authentic space where you can do the same.
I work with teens, college students, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. My office is located near Old Dominion University, making therapy especially accessible for students. I also have a special passion for supporting individuals in the perinatal and postpartum period, helping new parents feel more grounded, connected, and supported. I believe therapy works best when it feels real. My style is relational, collaborative, and empowering — I show up as a genuine person in the room, using both humor and honesty to create a safe, authentic space where you can do the same.
(757) 997-1708 View (757) 997-1708
Photo of Dr. Alicia Tetteh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Dr. Alicia Tetteh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
13 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
Life is a marathon and I believe that it is all about endurance. Sometimes we have to get a little help along the way whether it be a change of shoes, re-uptake of protein or a water break. There is this idea that we are weak when we seek others to help us out, but I also know that in life we cannot always persevere without a helping hand. I look forward to being an option of that new running shoe or Gatorade as we stride through the finish line together.
Life is a marathon and I believe that it is all about endurance. Sometimes we have to get a little help along the way whether it be a change of shoes, re-uptake of protein or a water break. There is this idea that we are weak when we seek others to help us out, but I also know that in life we cannot always persevere without a helping hand. I look forward to being an option of that new running shoe or Gatorade as we stride through the finish line together.
(757) 280-4694 View (757) 280-4694
Lemuel N Powell
Licensed Mental Health Professional, DSW, CSAC, LMHP-E, QMHP
Norfolk, VA 23508
My ideal client has faced trauma, addiction, or instability but still hopes for change. They may feel overwhelmed or unsure, yet they’re seeking safety, healing, and direction. They want stability, self-worth, and healthier relationships. They don’t need to be fixed, they need to be seen, heard, and supported. I meet clients where they are, offering trauma-informed care, structure, and compassion. Together, we work toward peace, purpose, and the belief that they are capable of lasting change.
My ideal client has faced trauma, addiction, or instability but still hopes for change. They may feel overwhelmed or unsure, yet they’re seeking safety, healing, and direction. They want stability, self-worth, and healthier relationships. They don’t need to be fixed, they need to be seen, heard, and supported. I meet clients where they are, offering trauma-informed care, structure, and compassion. Together, we work toward peace, purpose, and the belief that they are capable of lasting change.
(757) 979-3875 View (757) 979-3875
Photo of Anthony George Ladikos, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anthony George Ladikos
Licensed Professional Counselor
Norfolk, VA 23508
Are you someone who is struggling to find a safe space to talk about your anxiety, depression, or grief? Have you been trying to cope with your relationship issues, stress, or trauma by yourself and have not found relief? By working together, we can tend to your individual needs. I specialize in working with family conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, and anger management. I incorporate positive coping skills in a judgment free environment that promotes self-growth which results in lifelong changes. I use cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and mindfulness therapy to help facilitate growth in my sessions.
Are you someone who is struggling to find a safe space to talk about your anxiety, depression, or grief? Have you been trying to cope with your relationship issues, stress, or trauma by yourself and have not found relief? By working together, we can tend to your individual needs. I specialize in working with family conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, and anger management. I incorporate positive coping skills in a judgment free environment that promotes self-growth which results in lifelong changes. I use cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and mindfulness therapy to help facilitate growth in my sessions.
(757) 801-3059 View (757) 801-3059
Photo of Christopher Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Christopher Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Norfolk, VA 23508
Are you a man struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to face these challenges by yourself. My name is Chris, and I specialize in supporting men as they navigate the pressures and expectations of modern life. I use CBT to help you recognize unhelpful patterns and develop healthier ways of thinking and acting. Together, we’ll work on building skills and confidence you need to become the best version of yourself. In our first few sessions, we’ll focus on getting to know each other, identifying your triggers, and starting to learn new coping skills.
Are you a man struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to face these challenges by yourself. My name is Chris, and I specialize in supporting men as they navigate the pressures and expectations of modern life. I use CBT to help you recognize unhelpful patterns and develop healthier ways of thinking and acting. Together, we’ll work on building skills and confidence you need to become the best version of yourself. In our first few sessions, we’ll focus on getting to know each other, identifying your triggers, and starting to learn new coping skills.
(757) 703-2055 View (757) 703-2055
Jeff Schlichter
Psychologist
Norfolk, VA 23508
A central guiding principle of my practice as a clinical psychologist is that anyone who seeks assistance from a mental health professional should be accorded the utmost respect. Seeking treatment outside one's family and/or friends is best viewed as recognition of the reality that none of us is an expert in every difficulty with which we are faced. Asking for help is viewed as a strength, not as a weakness. Sometimes, working with a mental health professional who does not render judgements about one's functioning but simply attempts to help one understand oneself is just what the doctor ordered.
A central guiding principle of my practice as a clinical psychologist is that anyone who seeks assistance from a mental health professional should be accorded the utmost respect. Seeking treatment outside one's family and/or friends is best viewed as recognition of the reality that none of us is an expert in every difficulty with which we are faced. Asking for help is viewed as a strength, not as a weakness. Sometimes, working with a mental health professional who does not render judgements about one's functioning but simply attempts to help one understand oneself is just what the doctor ordered.
(757) 863-2697 View (757) 863-2697
Photo of Matthew J Huddle - Latitude Neurofeedback - Matthew J. Huddle, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist, MSOT, OTR/L
Latitude Neurofeedback - Matthew J. Huddle, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist, MSOT, OTR/L
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
My ideal neurofeedback clients are individuals that have been working to overcome and thrive despite difficult backgrounds, mental health challenges, past traumas, high pressure careers, and the stressors of life in 2025. Often they have already done great work with counselors and psychotherapists, psychiatrists, occupational and physical therapists and other professionals. They may also have made improvement through exercise, dietary changes, massage, yoga, acupuncture, meditation, and the like.
My ideal neurofeedback clients are individuals that have been working to overcome and thrive despite difficult backgrounds, mental health challenges, past traumas, high pressure careers, and the stressors of life in 2025. Often they have already done great work with counselors and psychotherapists, psychiatrists, occupational and physical therapists and other professionals. They may also have made improvement through exercise, dietary changes, massage, yoga, acupuncture, meditation, and the like.
(757) 832-8299 View (757) 832-8299
Photo of Amy Garner, Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Amy Garner
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Norfolk, VA 23508
Working with active duty military, veterans, and their spouses, I offer a trauma-informed space to help you navigate the complex emotional and relational challenges that often come with military life. You are not alone in this journey — and healing is possible. Together, we will work to address PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles with compassion, understanding, and respect for your experiences.
Working with active duty military, veterans, and their spouses, I offer a trauma-informed space to help you navigate the complex emotional and relational challenges that often come with military life. You are not alone in this journey — and healing is possible. Together, we will work to address PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles with compassion, understanding, and respect for your experiences.
(757) 551-6744 View (757) 551-6744
Photo of Gregory Lemich - The Lemich Clinic: For Military Mental Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
The Lemich Clinic: For Military Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
The Lemich Clinic for military mental health was founded on the belief that everyone who serves in the military should have access to high quality, confidential, mental health care. Our clients are active duty members, military spouses, and recent veterans. We work with enlisted personnel and officers from all branches, a diversity of veterans, and those with all clearance levels. Located just 4 miles south of Naval Station Norfolk and 4 miles north of Portsmouth, we are your off-base home for military mental health.
The Lemich Clinic for military mental health was founded on the belief that everyone who serves in the military should have access to high quality, confidential, mental health care. Our clients are active duty members, military spouses, and recent veterans. We work with enlisted personnel and officers from all branches, a diversity of veterans, and those with all clearance levels. Located just 4 miles south of Naval Station Norfolk and 4 miles north of Portsmouth, we are your off-base home for military mental health.
(757) 505-7014 View (757) 505-7014
Photo of Kezia McNair, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Kezia McNair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Norfolk, VA 23508
Struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, or anger management? Navigating life’s stressors, including the unique challenges of military life, can feel overwhelming. I’m here to help. As a compassionate Clinical Licensed Professional Therapist, I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, and anger management. Together, we’ll create a personalized path to healing and resilience. With an empathetic, non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions while building effective coping strategies for lasting change.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, or anger management? Navigating life’s stressors, including the unique challenges of military life, can feel overwhelming. I’m here to help. As a compassionate Clinical Licensed Professional Therapist, I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, and anger management. Together, we’ll create a personalized path to healing and resilience. With an empathetic, non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions while building effective coping strategies for lasting change.
(757) 520-0982 View (757) 520-0982
Photo of Dr. Vannessa Gharbi - Outlier Counseling and Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Outlier Counseling and Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Norfolk, VA 23508
What would it be like for you to feel less stress, worry, anxiety, hopelessness, anger, guilt, overwhelm, or all the other difficult emotions that are bubbling up to the surface for you right now? Does it feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? Do you feel like no matter what you do, or how hard you try, you still feel emotionally exhausted and stressed? Are you feeling so overwhelmed with everything that’s going on in your life that you don’t know what to do? I can provide a compassionate space for you to be seen, heard, and understood. I use approachable strategies and support to help you find relief.
What would it be like for you to feel less stress, worry, anxiety, hopelessness, anger, guilt, overwhelm, or all the other difficult emotions that are bubbling up to the surface for you right now? Does it feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? Do you feel like no matter what you do, or how hard you try, you still feel emotionally exhausted and stressed? Are you feeling so overwhelmed with everything that’s going on in your life that you don’t know what to do? I can provide a compassionate space for you to be seen, heard, and understood. I use approachable strategies and support to help you find relief.
(336) 360-6084 View (336) 360-6084
Photo of Susan Truland - Ocean Counseling and Family Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Ocean Counseling and Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
We all have the power to impact our destiny when we choose to view ourselves and the world around us in a positive light. You have probably been searching for change in your life for some time now, reaching a point where you feel overwhelmed in managing your physical or emotional health. You might be struggling with your interpersonal relationships, work, school, or financial stressors. Change takes hard work, patience, and a conscious commitment. Don't give up! You will see that there is hope, and together, we will discover a path to "A healthy mind, a healthy you"!
We all have the power to impact our destiny when we choose to view ourselves and the world around us in a positive light. You have probably been searching for change in your life for some time now, reaching a point where you feel overwhelmed in managing your physical or emotional health. You might be struggling with your interpersonal relationships, work, school, or financial stressors. Change takes hard work, patience, and a conscious commitment. Don't give up! You will see that there is hope, and together, we will discover a path to "A healthy mind, a healthy you"!
(609) 642-4274 View (609) 642-4274
Photo of Lisa Olivia Gibbs - Time Two Heal LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Time Two Heal LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a dedicated and licensed professional counselor with a mission to provide, protect, and treat others with love and respect. I am committed to inspiring my clients to believe in themselves and fostering a positive and trusting therapeutic relationship. With a focus on creating a safe environment, I help her my clients process their feelings, address disappointments, and rebuild what is broken.
I am a dedicated and licensed professional counselor with a mission to provide, protect, and treat others with love and respect. I am committed to inspiring my clients to believe in themselves and fostering a positive and trusting therapeutic relationship. With a focus on creating a safe environment, I help her my clients process their feelings, address disappointments, and rebuild what is broken.
(540) 274-3038 View (540) 274-3038
Photo of Alice Marie Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, LPCC
Alice Marie Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, LPCC
10 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe strongly in the power of the human spirit and that the wisdom resides within each one of us on how best to facilitate our own healing, growth, and emancipation. My experience as a private music instructor and performing musician, as well as my work with many clients of varied backgrounds over the years, has solidified my belief in the healing power of the expressive arts. I will work with you through both verbal and non-verbal ways as a means of personal transformation and healing. I am honored to be a supportive part of your brave and transcendent journey to healing.
I believe strongly in the power of the human spirit and that the wisdom resides within each one of us on how best to facilitate our own healing, growth, and emancipation. My experience as a private music instructor and performing musician, as well as my work with many clients of varied backgrounds over the years, has solidified my belief in the healing power of the expressive arts. I will work with you through both verbal and non-verbal ways as a means of personal transformation and healing. I am honored to be a supportive part of your brave and transcendent journey to healing.
(757) 707-1556 View (757) 707-1556
Photo of Nancy Edenfield, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Nancy Edenfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) is a compassionate model of psychotherapy that helps people understand how they’ve come to take on certain beliefs and behaviors over the course of their lives. The focus is on healing the wounded parts and restoring balance and harmony by unburdening those beliefs and behaviors that have led one to experience unhappiness, interpersonal difficulties, and at times, dissatisfaction with life.
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) is a compassionate model of psychotherapy that helps people understand how they’ve come to take on certain beliefs and behaviors over the course of their lives. The focus is on healing the wounded parts and restoring balance and harmony by unburdening those beliefs and behaviors that have led one to experience unhappiness, interpersonal difficulties, and at times, dissatisfaction with life.
(757) 997-1190 View (757) 997-1190
Photo of Leah Gerber, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Gerber
Licensed Professional Counselor
Serves Area
I work with individuals with anxiety, grief, trauma, and issues with identity or self-esteem. I enjoy supporting clients through interpersonal challenges and difficult life transitions. My goal is to assist individuals in cultivating self-awareness and clarity through emotional processing and self-expression. I have a specific interest in holistic wellness and promoting nature for health and happiness.
I work with individuals with anxiety, grief, trauma, and issues with identity or self-esteem. I enjoy supporting clients through interpersonal challenges and difficult life transitions. My goal is to assist individuals in cultivating self-awareness and clarity through emotional processing and self-expression. I have a specific interest in holistic wellness and promoting nature for health and happiness.
(757) 974-8885 View (757) 974-8885
Photo of Rachel Micheletti, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rachel Micheletti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). I specialize in working with individuals to enhance their self-esteem and support them in becoming their favorite versions of themselves, including both gender and sexuality affirming care. Through personalized therapeutic approaches, I aim to empower my clients to overcome challenges and achieve their personal goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). I specialize in working with individuals to enhance their self-esteem and support them in becoming their favorite versions of themselves, including both gender and sexuality affirming care. Through personalized therapeutic approaches, I aim to empower my clients to overcome challenges and achieve their personal goals.
(757) 704-5405 View (757) 704-5405
Photo of Stephanie Cady, Resident in Counseling, LPC-R, CSAC, SOTP-T
Stephanie Cady
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R, CSAC, SOTP-T
Serves Area
I am a Resident in Counseling, Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and Sex Offender Treatment Provider-Trainee with extensive experience in the mental health and non-profit sectors. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including children, families, and adults—particularly those who are Spanish-speaking or currently incarcerated. I enjoy working within the family dynamic and helping couples navigate through different challenges. Soy Residente en Consejería, Consejera Certificada en Abuso de Sustancias y Proveedora en Entrenamiento para el Tratamiento de Delincuentes Sexuales.
I am a Resident in Counseling, Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and Sex Offender Treatment Provider-Trainee with extensive experience in the mental health and non-profit sectors. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including children, families, and adults—particularly those who are Spanish-speaking or currently incarcerated. I enjoy working within the family dynamic and helping couples navigate through different challenges. Soy Residente en Consejería, Consejera Certificada en Abuso de Sustancias y Proveedora en Entrenamiento para el Tratamiento de Delincuentes Sexuales.
(757) 863-6287 View (757) 863-6287
Photo of Megan Feeley, Resident in Counseling
Megan Feeley
Resident in Counseling
Serves Area
Almost everyone can benefit from counseling! Whether you're looking to sort through challenging emotions or experiences, improve your relationships, explore areas for personal growth, or develop skills to cope with stress, it helps to talk with someone whose only goal is to empathetically support you in making the changes you seek. Those who have experienced trauma often have difficulty regulating their emotions, building meaningful relationships, and coping with stress, and they tend to find that substances like alcohol and other drugs make hard things easier. These are not character flaws; this is a reasonable response to trauma.
Almost everyone can benefit from counseling! Whether you're looking to sort through challenging emotions or experiences, improve your relationships, explore areas for personal growth, or develop skills to cope with stress, it helps to talk with someone whose only goal is to empathetically support you in making the changes you seek. Those who have experienced trauma often have difficulty regulating their emotions, building meaningful relationships, and coping with stress, and they tend to find that substances like alcohol and other drugs make hard things easier. These are not character flaws; this is a reasonable response to trauma.
(757) 979-6119 View (757) 979-6119
Photo of Kyle S. Helwig, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kyle S. Helwig
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Are you struggling with mental or emotional difficulties & don’t know where to turn? Are you experiencing anxiety, stress, overwhelm, burnout, communication challenges, grief & loss, or a traumatic situation & haven’t felt like yourself? I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. I put your perspective first to build a holistic method of treatment with you, customized to you & your unique situation. I use an adaptive Person-Centered CBT approach grounded in compassion. My approach is informed by Jungian Psychodynamics, Inner Parts Work, Symbolic Archetypal processing, Dream Work, Logotherapy ACT, EMI, & TF-CBT.
Are you struggling with mental or emotional difficulties & don’t know where to turn? Are you experiencing anxiety, stress, overwhelm, burnout, communication challenges, grief & loss, or a traumatic situation & haven’t felt like yourself? I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. I put your perspective first to build a holistic method of treatment with you, customized to you & your unique situation. I use an adaptive Person-Centered CBT approach grounded in compassion. My approach is informed by Jungian Psychodynamics, Inner Parts Work, Symbolic Archetypal processing, Dream Work, Logotherapy ACT, EMI, & TF-CBT.
(757) 909-6798 View (757) 909-6798

See more therapy options for 23508

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 23508

70+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 23508 who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
93% Depression
77% Stress
72% Trauma and PTSD
67% Life Transitions
64% Coping Skills
61% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
79% Anthem
68% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 23508 see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 23508?

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.