Photo of Ashley J Holtsclaw, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS, NCC, CCTP, CDBT
Ashley J Holtsclaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS, NCC, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25302
Hi, I'm here to support anyone dealing with stress, anxiety, substance abuse, interpersonal difficulties, and various other challenges. Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. It takes courage to seek help, but I'm here to walk alongside you. My approach is centered on you, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. I offer and integrated Solutions-Focused and Humanistic Approach in which you are the expert of your life. I am a supportive guide to help you overcome adversities so that you can achieve results. Together, we'll tackle barriers and equip you with coping skills to navigate life confidently for balance and healing.
Hi, I'm here to support anyone dealing with stress, anxiety, substance abuse, interpersonal difficulties, and various other challenges. Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. It takes courage to seek help, but I'm here to walk alongside you. My approach is centered on you, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. I offer and integrated Solutions-Focused and Humanistic Approach in which you are the expert of your life. I am a supportive guide to help you overcome adversities so that you can achieve results. Together, we'll tackle barriers and equip you with coping skills to navigate life confidently for balance and healing.
(681) 201-1343 View (681) 201-1343
Photo of Allyson Hedges - Crescent Counseling Group, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALPS
Crescent Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25302
Not accepting new clients
There is no need to struggle in silence. Life can become overwhelming, confusing, and difficult to manage. Do you find yourself repeating past patterns and behaviors that are destructive? Therapy is a place to regain a sense of self and purpose. Together we will find your strengths, re-examine harmful patterns, and reconnect you to a healthy life where you feel connected and fulfilled. I have over twenty-four years of working as a licensed therapist (WV LPC). I am a Certified EMDR therapist. I also have training in other evidence-based treatment modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy and AEDP.
There is no need to struggle in silence. Life can become overwhelming, confusing, and difficult to manage. Do you find yourself repeating past patterns and behaviors that are destructive? Therapy is a place to regain a sense of self and purpose. Together we will find your strengths, re-examine harmful patterns, and reconnect you to a healthy life where you feel connected and fulfilled. I have over twenty-four years of working as a licensed therapist (WV LPC). I am a Certified EMDR therapist. I also have training in other evidence-based treatment modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy and AEDP.
(304) 316-6969 View (304) 316-6969
Photo of Ashley Holtsclaw - Inspiring Horizons Counseling & Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS, NCC, BC-TMH, ASDCS,
Inspiring Horizons Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS, NCC, BC-TMH, ASDCS,
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25302
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life! Our passion is to help others find positive ways to live a balanced life, reduce mental health stigma, and to promote healing.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life! Our passion is to help others find positive ways to live a balanced life, reduce mental health stigma, and to promote healing.
(304) 427-5596 View (304) 427-5596
Photo of Ben Redmond, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ben Redmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25302
Owner of Mind Mechanics Counseling. Feel stuck in your life, your past, your anxiety, depression, anger, apathy, overwhelm, grief, or PTSD? As a man, it's hard to seek help. You don't have to carry the weight of your struggles alone. All men feel sad, afraid, anxious, doubtful, amongst other feelings. You're still a man. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can find the guidance to fix the problem. If you fully commit to the process, expect to feel lighter, more powerful, effective, and clear about where you want to go and what you want to do with your life. While I specialize in men, I love serving people of all kinds.
Owner of Mind Mechanics Counseling. Feel stuck in your life, your past, your anxiety, depression, anger, apathy, overwhelm, grief, or PTSD? As a man, it's hard to seek help. You don't have to carry the weight of your struggles alone. All men feel sad, afraid, anxious, doubtful, amongst other feelings. You're still a man. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can find the guidance to fix the problem. If you fully commit to the process, expect to feel lighter, more powerful, effective, and clear about where you want to go and what you want to do with your life. While I specialize in men, I love serving people of all kinds.
(304) 892-8213 View (304) 892-8213
Photo of Briana Washington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Briana Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25302
Life is full of ups and downs. It can be overwhelming, confusing, challenging or just plain hard! We all need support to maneuver our way through the uncertainties that life can bring - traumatic experiences, loss of a loved one or even struggles with self esteem.  Having a safe space to sort out these thoughts and feelings is key. I will use my holistic approach to focus on healing the whole person. We will work together to build resilience and develop skills to help you on your journey so you can feel confident while facing life's challenges.
Life is full of ups and downs. It can be overwhelming, confusing, challenging or just plain hard! We all need support to maneuver our way through the uncertainties that life can bring - traumatic experiences, loss of a loved one or even struggles with self esteem.  Having a safe space to sort out these thoughts and feelings is key. I will use my holistic approach to focus on healing the whole person. We will work together to build resilience and develop skills to help you on your journey so you can feel confident while facing life's challenges.
(304) 318-7527 View (304) 318-7527
Photo of Stephanie Knight Clarke, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, P-MHC
Stephanie Knight Clarke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, P-MHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, WV 25302
Deciding you are ready to make a lifelong change can be a difficult decision, or maybe you are ready to start living the life you have envisioned and the choice is obvious. Either way, our team of qualified professionals is ready to work with you to help you determine specific goals that will improve your quality of life and enrich your relationships. We invite you into our comfortable environment. We will maintain a caring and non-judgmental stance, and will patiently follow your lead to your path to peace.
Deciding you are ready to make a lifelong change can be a difficult decision, or maybe you are ready to start living the life you have envisioned and the choice is obvious. Either way, our team of qualified professionals is ready to work with you to help you determine specific goals that will improve your quality of life and enrich your relationships. We invite you into our comfortable environment. We will maintain a caring and non-judgmental stance, and will patiently follow your lead to your path to peace.
(681) 201-1417 View (681) 201-1417
Photo of Margot Groenfeldt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Margot Groenfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charleston, WV 25302
Welcome! My name is Margot Groenfeldt. I am an LCSW and owner and founder of Yellow Rose Counseling. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families and I believe that the path to greater happiness and improved mental health is best discovered by focusing on your relationships. Whether they take the form of romantic partnerships, friendships, or your relationship to yourself, I believe that exploring the relationships that define your life will lead to improved well-being, and I am excited to accompany you on this journey.
Welcome! My name is Margot Groenfeldt. I am an LCSW and owner and founder of Yellow Rose Counseling. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families and I believe that the path to greater happiness and improved mental health is best discovered by focusing on your relationships. Whether they take the form of romantic partnerships, friendships, or your relationship to yourself, I believe that exploring the relationships that define your life will lead to improved well-being, and I am excited to accompany you on this journey.
(412) 946-0820 View (412) 946-0820
Photo of Joan Alden Pickett, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CSAC, EMDR
Joan Alden Pickett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CSAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am here to help you heal the distress you are feeling coming from anxiety, depression addiction, trauma, PTSD or family problems. It can be hard to connect with a therapist at first. You don't know this person and how are you going to feel trusting and secure with a stranger? Yet you are in pain and need help. It is just a first step, one that does not have to lead to commitment. You are in charge and are simply "auditioning" to see if this connection feels good and helpful.
I am here to help you heal the distress you are feeling coming from anxiety, depression addiction, trauma, PTSD or family problems. It can be hard to connect with a therapist at first. You don't know this person and how are you going to feel trusting and secure with a stranger? Yet you are in pain and need help. It is just a first step, one that does not have to lead to commitment. You are in charge and are simply "auditioning" to see if this connection feels good and helpful.
(703) 282-1642 View (703) 282-1642
Photo of Rebecca Boardman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Rebecca Boardman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, Let me introduce myself. My name is Rebecca Boardman, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), who has been working as a therapist, with a variety of clients, for the last 12 years. It is important to me that everyone be treated with respect and dignity no matter what they are dealing with in their life. It takes a great deal of courage to reach out for help when struggling emotionally, physically, and or behaviorally. If you are reaching out, I am here to help you.
Hello, Let me introduce myself. My name is Rebecca Boardman, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), who has been working as a therapist, with a variety of clients, for the last 12 years. It is important to me that everyone be treated with respect and dignity no matter what they are dealing with in their life. It takes a great deal of courage to reach out for help when struggling emotionally, physically, and or behaviorally. If you are reaching out, I am here to help you.
(304) 648-4086 View (304) 648-4086
Photo of Dr. Laurie C Covington, Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Dr. Laurie C Covington
Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Deciding to start therapy is not always easy. It takes courage, commitment and a desire to make a positive difference in your life. If you have decided you are ready to make lasting changes in your life then finding a therapist is your next step. How do you choose the right therapist for you? If you are looking for someone who will listen to you unconditionally, without judgment, who shows empathy regarding your situation, who is easy to talk with and provides a space where you can feel safe, then I might be the therapist for you.
Deciding to start therapy is not always easy. It takes courage, commitment and a desire to make a positive difference in your life. If you have decided you are ready to make lasting changes in your life then finding a therapist is your next step. How do you choose the right therapist for you? If you are looking for someone who will listen to you unconditionally, without judgment, who shows empathy regarding your situation, who is easy to talk with and provides a space where you can feel safe, then I might be the therapist for you.
(304) 937-0533 View (304) 937-0533
Photo of Travis Hogbin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Travis Hogbin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I want to help you be YOU. I want to help you find your voice, your agency, and your strengths. The better we know ourselves—the more honest we are with ourselves—the better we can make change. People are nuanced, complex, and more capable than we realize; the tools you need are already there, and I want to help you use them.
I want to help you be YOU. I want to help you find your voice, your agency, and your strengths. The better we know ourselves—the more honest we are with ourselves—the better we can make change. People are nuanced, complex, and more capable than we realize; the tools you need are already there, and I want to help you use them.
(304) 903-6487 View (304) 903-6487
Photo of Sherry Lord, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sherry Lord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Sherry Lord, a Licensed Independent Social Worker in West Virginia. I have been working in Behavioral health for more than 10 years in various capacities and have held clinical roles consistently since 2020. I see my role as a therapist as an Agent for Change, it is my role to help you change and grow into the vision you see for yourself, through the use of client centered, strength based and evidenced based practices in our session.
Hello, my name is Sherry Lord, a Licensed Independent Social Worker in West Virginia. I have been working in Behavioral health for more than 10 years in various capacities and have held clinical roles consistently since 2020. I see my role as a therapist as an Agent for Change, it is my role to help you change and grow into the vision you see for yourself, through the use of client centered, strength based and evidenced based practices in our session.
(304) 659-6717 View (304) 659-6717
Photo of Bryan M Stephey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, SAP
Bryan M Stephey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, SAP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I became a counselor after a close friend died suddenly. As part of my personal growth and empowerment, I have expanded my ability to better understand the incredible power of the indomitable spirit of the human condition and all what we are capable of doing. I enjoy working with my clients to identify and address issues that cause them discomfort, mental pain, or disruption in their lives so they can be happier, healthier, and ultimately more attuned and present in daily events, eventually leading to fulfillment and enrichment in their lives. ​
I became a counselor after a close friend died suddenly. As part of my personal growth and empowerment, I have expanded my ability to better understand the incredible power of the indomitable spirit of the human condition and all what we are capable of doing. I enjoy working with my clients to identify and address issues that cause them discomfort, mental pain, or disruption in their lives so they can be happier, healthier, and ultimately more attuned and present in daily events, eventually leading to fulfillment and enrichment in their lives. ​
(304) 513-3797 View (304) 513-3797
Photo of Emily Roxberry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Emily Roxberry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome, my name is Emily Roxberry, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker that utilizes an Empathetic approach, meeting client where they are at in their journey. I utilize Evidenced Base therapies with adult clients for positive client outcomes. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy to address symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction Issues. I have 20 years of experience working with adults ages 19 through 95. I have 17 years' experience working in Addictions Treatment as well as Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar, ADHD, Eating Disorders, PTSD and OCD.
Welcome, my name is Emily Roxberry, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker that utilizes an Empathetic approach, meeting client where they are at in their journey. I utilize Evidenced Base therapies with adult clients for positive client outcomes. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy to address symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction Issues. I have 20 years of experience working with adults ages 19 through 95. I have 17 years' experience working in Addictions Treatment as well as Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar, ADHD, Eating Disorders, PTSD and OCD.
(304) 944-5098 View (304) 944-5098
Photo of Dr. Jennifer E Kaufman Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CFRC, CCTS, CAGCS
Dr. Jennifer E Kaufman Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CFRC, CCTS, CAGCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a mental health professional, it is my responsibility to provide my clients with the same care I would want for my own family- a consistent, compassionate, & fully invested clinician. A doctor who calls you back, takes the time to answer your questions, has the flexibility to meet your busy schedule, and offers a safe, judgement-free space just for YOU!
As a mental health professional, it is my responsibility to provide my clients with the same care I would want for my own family- a consistent, compassionate, & fully invested clinician. A doctor who calls you back, takes the time to answer your questions, has the flexibility to meet your busy schedule, and offers a safe, judgement-free space just for YOU!
(571) 200-8785 View (571) 200-8785
Photo of Melanie Danielson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melanie Danielson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have devoted my life to helping people become to best versions of themselves. I provide Assessments, Screenings, Evolutions and Psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in Trauma, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Autism, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Substance Misuse and Behavioral Issues. I believe every person deserves a tailored approach that is conducive to their healing. I am Independently Licensed and see clients is three states, West Virginia, Ohio, and Florida. We are all unique and special. We have different needs, and different strengths.
I have devoted my life to helping people become to best versions of themselves. I provide Assessments, Screenings, Evolutions and Psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in Trauma, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Autism, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Substance Misuse and Behavioral Issues. I believe every person deserves a tailored approach that is conducive to their healing. I am Independently Licensed and see clients is three states, West Virginia, Ohio, and Florida. We are all unique and special. We have different needs, and different strengths.
(304) 486-3738 View (304) 486-3738
Photo of Linda Marie Goad - True Vine LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALPS, NCC
True Vine LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ALPS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, let me help be your guide to build a stronger bond with your partner. Seeing couples heal and repair and become secure is a beautiful dance.
As a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist, let me help be your guide to build a stronger bond with your partner. Seeing couples heal and repair and become secure is a beautiful dance.
(681) 201-1356 View (681) 201-1356
Photo of Mj Zink, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Mj Zink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hey You! I am so proud that you have chosen to take this courageous journey. The world is changing, and so are YOU! Let’s explore what’s been heavy on your heart. Therapy grounded in your personal values and unique experiences can bring forth the full/new YOU- Let’s embrace the next chapter of your story with courage and curiosity. I specialize in anxiety, stress- related transitions, self-esteem and body image, trauma, cognitive dysfunctions, and relationship issues. My mission is to provide a space where you can feel unburdened. I hope to bring humor, hope and connection through our sessions together.
Hey You! I am so proud that you have chosen to take this courageous journey. The world is changing, and so are YOU! Let’s explore what’s been heavy on your heart. Therapy grounded in your personal values and unique experiences can bring forth the full/new YOU- Let’s embrace the next chapter of your story with courage and curiosity. I specialize in anxiety, stress- related transitions, self-esteem and body image, trauma, cognitive dysfunctions, and relationship issues. My mission is to provide a space where you can feel unburdened. I hope to bring humor, hope and connection through our sessions together.
(304) 584-6512 View (304) 584-6512
Photo of Tiffany Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tiffany Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Restoring Hope Therapy Services is here to walk alongside you on your journey towards inner healing and meaningful connections. I am a compassionate therapist who offers personalized care rooted in evidence-based theories. My goal is to provide the support you need to embrace growth and create a fulfilling life. If this sounds like what you are looking for in a therapist, please reach to get started.
Restoring Hope Therapy Services is here to walk alongside you on your journey towards inner healing and meaningful connections. I am a compassionate therapist who offers personalized care rooted in evidence-based theories. My goal is to provide the support you need to embrace growth and create a fulfilling life. If this sounds like what you are looking for in a therapist, please reach to get started.
(615) 857-3755 View (615) 857-3755
Photo of Ambrosia Isely, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ambrosia Isely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ambrosia Isely, LCS, LICSW, PMH-C I start with an attachment/humanistic lens. I use a variety of tools depending on the preferences and needs of my clients. I work with children, parents, families and individuals. I have a certification in perinatal mental health. This equates to specialized training in managing the highs and lows of parenting and birth trauma.
Ambrosia Isely, LCS, LICSW, PMH-C I start with an attachment/humanistic lens. I use a variety of tools depending on the preferences and needs of my clients. I work with children, parents, families and individuals. I have a certification in perinatal mental health. This equates to specialized training in managing the highs and lows of parenting and birth trauma.
(304) 451-9187 View (304) 451-9187
1

See more therapy options for 25302

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 25302

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 25302 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
77% Coping Skills
73% Family Conflict
68% Grief
64% Trauma and PTSD
64% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Highmark
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 25302 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 25302?

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.