Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Dr. Cheyenne Carter, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Dr. Cheyenne Carter
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients...I am passionate about healthy relationships and sexual intimacy. Over the past 20 years, I have worked with individuals and couples improving their connections with themselves and others. Clients often come to me desiring relief from relational disconnection, sexuality concerns, anxiety, infidelity, impact of childhood trauma, and career indecision. It is my goal that you leave our first session feeling truly seen and heard and feeling a renewed sense of hope that healing is possible. Together we will create a plan to help you achieve the level of wellness you desire.
Not accepting new clients...I am passionate about healthy relationships and sexual intimacy. Over the past 20 years, I have worked with individuals and couples improving their connections with themselves and others. Clients often come to me desiring relief from relational disconnection, sexuality concerns, anxiety, infidelity, impact of childhood trauma, and career indecision. It is my goal that you leave our first session feeling truly seen and heard and feeling a renewed sense of hope that healing is possible. Together we will create a plan to help you achieve the level of wellness you desire.
(336) 257-1767 View (336) 257-1767
Photo of Cindy Brown Stiltner, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Cindy Brown Stiltner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Unexpected loss, challenging situations, employment, parenting, illness-all of which can cause significant stress. A single stressful event or series of events could trigger the onset of depression or anxiety at any point in your life, even years after the event(s) have occurred. While we certainly cannot control the challenges life throws our way, we can control what we do about them. We have the right to use those challenges to learn and strengthen ourselves…to become a better version of ourselves.
Unexpected loss, challenging situations, employment, parenting, illness-all of which can cause significant stress. A single stressful event or series of events could trigger the onset of depression or anxiety at any point in your life, even years after the event(s) have occurred. While we certainly cannot control the challenges life throws our way, we can control what we do about them. We have the right to use those challenges to learn and strengthen ourselves…to become a better version of ourselves.
(336) 203-9643 View (336) 203-9643
Photo of Paul Flores, MSW LCSW PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Paul Flores, MSW LCSW PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Are your ready for "better"? Lets talk about ways to make that happen.
Are your ready for "better"? Lets talk about ways to make that happen.
(336) 802-1165 View (336) 802-1165
Photo of Ricky A Speller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Ricky A Speller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I am dedicated to knowing the client and building rapport based off culture, specific needs and the client's ways of expressing themselves and how they view assistance from therapy. At Virgie's Prayer Counseling Service PLLC, I strive to change individuals' opinion about therapy and provide personalized therapy sessions to address specific needs. I have experience working with children, teens and adults in various settings such as schools, office, probation and level III group homes. I have assisted clients to process trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, family issues, stress, and helped couples navigate through challenges.
I am dedicated to knowing the client and building rapport based off culture, specific needs and the client's ways of expressing themselves and how they view assistance from therapy. At Virgie's Prayer Counseling Service PLLC, I strive to change individuals' opinion about therapy and provide personalized therapy sessions to address specific needs. I have experience working with children, teens and adults in various settings such as schools, office, probation and level III group homes. I have assisted clients to process trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, family issues, stress, and helped couples navigate through challenges.
(336) 443-8865 View (336) 443-8865
Photo of Samara Cares Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Samara Cares Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Are you in a season where you are struggling with issues related to trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you trying to figure out what's next? Life is full of many seasons  and some are harder than others. It's time to pursue your healing and wholeness! My ideal client is between the ages of 15-25 years old and are struggling to find themselves in this crazy world that we're living in today. They may be facing some anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, addictions, and/or trauma symptoms and trying to heal from the inside out. I also work with adults, families, and couples.
Are you in a season where you are struggling with issues related to trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you trying to figure out what's next? Life is full of many seasons  and some are harder than others. It's time to pursue your healing and wholeness! My ideal client is between the ages of 15-25 years old and are struggling to find themselves in this crazy world that we're living in today. They may be facing some anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, addictions, and/or trauma symptoms and trying to heal from the inside out. I also work with adults, families, and couples.
(336) 800-3801 View (336) 800-3801
Photo of Tonya Moore, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis in Winston Salem, NC
Tonya Moore
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, NCC, LCMHCS, BCPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
There are times when there is the feeling that all hope is gone. I believe that God has a plan for your life, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...and will bring you back from captivity. My goal is simple: to help my clients discover that "plan", gain insight, make changes, and grow in God's grace. I am here to assist you in your journey back to wholeness: mentally, emotionally, relationally, and/or spiritually. Whether you're trying to restore a broken marriage, mend family relationships, pick up the pieces or seeking a fresh start, hope and healing awaits you.
There are times when there is the feeling that all hope is gone. I believe that God has a plan for your life, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...and will bring you back from captivity. My goal is simple: to help my clients discover that "plan", gain insight, make changes, and grow in God's grace. I am here to assist you in your journey back to wholeness: mentally, emotionally, relationally, and/or spiritually. Whether you're trying to restore a broken marriage, mend family relationships, pick up the pieces or seeking a fresh start, hope and healing awaits you.
(336) 223-5183 View (336) 223-5183
Photo of Heartspath Counseling and Wellness, PLLC, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Heartspath Counseling and Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
When life becomes difficult, either with long-standing challenges or those that just recently have surfaced, it can be scary and frustrating to know where to start in seeking help. I admire you for taking that first step in seeking out someone that can help you move through and make sense of life's challenges. I am eager to help you as you journey in dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief & loss, spirituality, identity development, body-image & self-esteem and relationship conflict.
When life becomes difficult, either with long-standing challenges or those that just recently have surfaced, it can be scary and frustrating to know where to start in seeking help. I admire you for taking that first step in seeking out someone that can help you move through and make sense of life's challenges. I am eager to help you as you journey in dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief & loss, spirituality, identity development, body-image & self-esteem and relationship conflict.
(336) 899-0198 View (336) 899-0198
Photo of Kristin Vergo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Kristin Vergo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Are you searching for more purpose in your life? Are your relationships unfulfilling? Do you feel disconnected to yourself and others? I help clients create a life and relationships that are more in line with what they value and feel more nourishing on a soul level.
Are you searching for more purpose in your life? Are your relationships unfulfilling? Do you feel disconnected to yourself and others? I help clients create a life and relationships that are more in line with what they value and feel more nourishing on a soul level.
(336) 900-0945 View (336) 900-0945
Photo of Annamarie Gallagher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Annamarie Gallagher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in NC with over 15 yrs of experience in community, higher education, supervision and group private practice settings. In my work, I draw from EMDR (eye movement desensitization), ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), brainspotting, mindfulness, expressive arts, internal family systems (IFS) and other trauma-informed practices through a social justice lens. With a deep commitment to equitable care celebrating gender, sexuality, race, and culture, my practice is LGBTQ+ allied and weight-inclusive.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in NC with over 15 yrs of experience in community, higher education, supervision and group private practice settings. In my work, I draw from EMDR (eye movement desensitization), ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), brainspotting, mindfulness, expressive arts, internal family systems (IFS) and other trauma-informed practices through a social justice lens. With a deep commitment to equitable care celebrating gender, sexuality, race, and culture, my practice is LGBTQ+ allied and weight-inclusive.
(336) 396-7827 View (336) 396-7827
Photo of Victoria Lydon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Victoria Lydon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
We all long for connection and belonging, and positive relationships are essential in helping us live happy, fulfilling lives. Yet old wounds and communication styles often keep us from finding satisfaction in our current relationships, leaving us feeling stuck & disillusioned. Life also has a way of pulling the rug from under our feet at times and we find ourselves feeling lost, broken, and questioning how we reached this point in our story.
We all long for connection and belonging, and positive relationships are essential in helping us live happy, fulfilling lives. Yet old wounds and communication styles often keep us from finding satisfaction in our current relationships, leaving us feeling stuck & disillusioned. Life also has a way of pulling the rug from under our feet at times and we find ourselves feeling lost, broken, and questioning how we reached this point in our story.
(980) 705-9925 View (980) 705-9925
Photo of Jordan Harrold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Jordan Harrold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy room is a place that is emotionally safe. It is a space free of judgment. Working with clients who are ready to show up for themselves authentically is a benefit for me being a therapist. No matter how, what or who causes our ‘wounds’, it is our responsibility to be intentional and work towards healing.
The therapy room is a place that is emotionally safe. It is a space free of judgment. Working with clients who are ready to show up for themselves authentically is a benefit for me being a therapist. No matter how, what or who causes our ‘wounds’, it is our responsibility to be intentional and work towards healing.
(336) 536-6307 View (336) 536-6307
Photo of Leah Dixon, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Leah Dixon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Being human can be difficult. I hope to provide a safe nonjudgmental space so you can feel heard and seen, a space to be honest and reflect on what’s meaningful, and to recognize the impacts of culture and society on your wellbeing. I encourage others to enter into vulnerability to do deeper work that can create lasting change. My desire is to help my clients find self-compassion to heal the old wounds that can keep us stuck and find peace. Being human can also be beautiful, and I hope to help you discover that beauty in your own life.
Being human can be difficult. I hope to provide a safe nonjudgmental space so you can feel heard and seen, a space to be honest and reflect on what’s meaningful, and to recognize the impacts of culture and society on your wellbeing. I encourage others to enter into vulnerability to do deeper work that can create lasting change. My desire is to help my clients find self-compassion to heal the old wounds that can keep us stuck and find peace. Being human can also be beautiful, and I hope to help you discover that beauty in your own life.
(336) 502-6072 View (336) 502-6072
Photo of Emily Ortiz Badalamente in Winston Salem, NC
Emily Ortiz Badalamente
MA, LCMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
If you're experiencing a major life transition, thinking about making a change, or feeling unfulfilled in your daily life, seeking therapy can help. I understand that change and growth can often be uncomfortable. By working with me, you can expect a safe and understanding place to explore current and past difficulties, process emotions, and achieve holistic wellbeing. I have training in art therapy, mindfulness, meditation, and trauma-informed approaches. I offer traditional talk counseling and art therapy to teens and adults experiencing life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
If you're experiencing a major life transition, thinking about making a change, or feeling unfulfilled in your daily life, seeking therapy can help. I understand that change and growth can often be uncomfortable. By working with me, you can expect a safe and understanding place to explore current and past difficulties, process emotions, and achieve holistic wellbeing. I have training in art therapy, mindfulness, meditation, and trauma-informed approaches. I offer traditional talk counseling and art therapy to teens and adults experiencing life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
(336) 559-3998 View (336) 559-3998
Photo of M. Elizabeth Doub, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
M. Elizabeth Doub
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC, RYT200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning. I use mindfulness, play, movement, and talk therapy in my work. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning. I use mindfulness, play, movement, and talk therapy in my work. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
(336) 794-6877 View (336) 794-6877
Photo of Carol Pulley , Psychological Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Carol Pulley
Psychological Associate, LPA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
Life can be hard ! The past few years have been challenging for everyone. Maybe you feel that you are struggling to gain balance or find peace. You are not alone, studies show that more people than ever feel anxious, sad and stressed. You and I will work together to understand and process the events and challenges of your life. Talking to someone can help you find ways to reconcile your feelings and figure out how heal and move forward to become your best self. Together we can develop the best strategies for you to meet your goals and change your life.
Life can be hard ! The past few years have been challenging for everyone. Maybe you feel that you are struggling to gain balance or find peace. You are not alone, studies show that more people than ever feel anxious, sad and stressed. You and I will work together to understand and process the events and challenges of your life. Talking to someone can help you find ways to reconcile your feelings and figure out how heal and move forward to become your best self. Together we can develop the best strategies for you to meet your goals and change your life.
(336) 360-5684 View (336) 360-5684
Photo of Kimberley Renee Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Kimberley Renee Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27127
Not accepting new clients
I know the world can be overwhelming and stressful. You may feel like no matter what you do it is never good enough or that you struggle coping with all the stressors in your life. This feeling of unworthiness can have a negative impact on how you view both yourself and the world around you. These thoughts and feelings influence your actions. My goal is for you to learn self-acceptance, personal empowerment and to find your truest self. I focus on building a strong alliance with you and building on those strengths.
I know the world can be overwhelming and stressful. You may feel like no matter what you do it is never good enough or that you struggle coping with all the stressors in your life. This feeling of unworthiness can have a negative impact on how you view both yourself and the world around you. These thoughts and feelings influence your actions. My goal is for you to learn self-acceptance, personal empowerment and to find your truest self. I focus on building a strong alliance with you and building on those strengths.
(336) 594-2669 View (336) 594-2669
Photo of Jamesetter L Credelll, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Jamesetter L Credelll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
I am glad you have taken a brave step towards seeking assistance for the issues that have been troubling you lately. There are many things in a person's life that may cause stress or a disruption in their routines and without seeking assistance their situation may become worse. It is very important to have positive mental health for a person to have good overall well-being. Specifically, my counseling approach is using cognitive-behavioral techniques and self-guided help.
I am glad you have taken a brave step towards seeking assistance for the issues that have been troubling you lately. There are many things in a person's life that may cause stress or a disruption in their routines and without seeking assistance their situation may become worse. It is very important to have positive mental health for a person to have good overall well-being. Specifically, my counseling approach is using cognitive-behavioral techniques and self-guided help.
(336) 490-9331 View (336) 490-9331
Photo of Kristin Redington Bennett in Winston Salem, NC
Kristin Redington Bennett
MAEd, PhD, NCED
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Many families have trusted advisers for health and finances. Now they can turn to ILLUMII for expertise about the educational, parenting, and career journey. Dr. Bennett, founder of ILLUMII, says, "Our ultimate goal is to form long-term relationships with the individuals and families we serve, and to stand in their corner with expert insights and advice when they need it most." ILLUMII’s team of experts works together to help children, teens, and young adults in a coordinated, caring, and personalized way. Our practice offers counseling, executive functional coaching, college/career planning, tutoring, and psychoeducational testing.
Many families have trusted advisers for health and finances. Now they can turn to ILLUMII for expertise about the educational, parenting, and career journey. Dr. Bennett, founder of ILLUMII, says, "Our ultimate goal is to form long-term relationships with the individuals and families we serve, and to stand in their corner with expert insights and advice when they need it most." ILLUMII’s team of experts works together to help children, teens, and young adults in a coordinated, caring, and personalized way. Our practice offers counseling, executive functional coaching, college/career planning, tutoring, and psychoeducational testing.
(336) 221-3730 View (336) 221-3730
Photo of Wellness Counseling PLLC in Winston Salem, NC
Wellness Counseling PLLC
LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
(844) 258-0947 View (844) 258-0947
Photo of Katherine Myers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Katherine Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Maybe you have waited a long time to seek help and suffered in silence. Perhaps you've become accustomed to this discomfort or a pain. Or maybe you desire change through seeking understanding and want a greater sense of wellbeing. Therapy may help you with this process of personal growth and healing. Whether you have a crisis, traumatic experience, significant life challenge or are wanting to experience greater fulfillment therapy may be for you.
Maybe you have waited a long time to seek help and suffered in silence. Perhaps you've become accustomed to this discomfort or a pain. Or maybe you desire change through seeking understanding and want a greater sense of wellbeing. Therapy may help you with this process of personal growth and healing. Whether you have a crisis, traumatic experience, significant life challenge or are wanting to experience greater fulfillment therapy may be for you.
(336) 203-0760 View (336) 203-0760

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Aetna
47% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.