Photo of Ian Murray, MEd, LCMHC
Ian Murray
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27420
Parenting adolescents is challenging. As your teen gets older, they may show signs of struggling in some or many areas of their lives. You may notice personality changes, or they no longer have the same interests or no longer seem motivated. You’ve read books, tried different strategies and tried to communicate with your teen, but there has not been sustained change. You know that your teen has potential, but how do you help them find it? Looking for outside help, can be a scary step, with many questions. Will someone be able to connect with my teen, am I able to trust that person/will my teen be able to?
Parenting adolescents is challenging. As your teen gets older, they may show signs of struggling in some or many areas of their lives. You may notice personality changes, or they no longer have the same interests or no longer seem motivated. You’ve read books, tried different strategies and tried to communicate with your teen, but there has not been sustained change. You know that your teen has potential, but how do you help them find it? Looking for outside help, can be a scary step, with many questions. Will someone be able to connect with my teen, am I able to trust that person/will my teen be able to?
(980) 409-4994 View (980) 409-4994
Photo of Jourdan Brickey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jourdan Brickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Does it feel like you're constantly in a pattern of being misunderstood, undervalued, and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you know “better” but don't always "do better?" Does it feel like no matter how well you are doing in one part of your life, others are chaotic? Starting therapy doesn't always have to be done while in crisis. I know firsthand what it feels like to show up for myself, even when I don’t feel it. I specialize in working to support clients in developing a sense of stability and confidence, self-esteem and personal growth, overcoming intimacy issues, and becoming the best version of themselves.
Does it feel like you're constantly in a pattern of being misunderstood, undervalued, and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you know “better” but don't always "do better?" Does it feel like no matter how well you are doing in one part of your life, others are chaotic? Starting therapy doesn't always have to be done while in crisis. I know firsthand what it feels like to show up for myself, even when I don’t feel it. I specialize in working to support clients in developing a sense of stability and confidence, self-esteem and personal growth, overcoming intimacy issues, and becoming the best version of themselves.
(704) 270-6586 View (704) 270-6586

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Jonathan Schmalz, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Jonathan Schmalz
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
(336) 962-6565 View (336) 962-6565
Photo of Gwen Higgins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Are you a teen or adult struggling with depression, anxiety or finding it hard to face life's challenges? If so, you have come to the right professional. Allow me to introduce Gwen, a licensed clinical social worker with a knack for helping individuals like yourself. With a friendly approach combined with her vast experience, Gwen believes in empowering her clients to make the change they desire. She is committed to assisting you to take those challenging steps towards achieving your personal goals.
Are you a teen or adult struggling with depression, anxiety or finding it hard to face life's challenges? If so, you have come to the right professional. Allow me to introduce Gwen, a licensed clinical social worker with a knack for helping individuals like yourself. With a friendly approach combined with her vast experience, Gwen believes in empowering her clients to make the change they desire. She is committed to assisting you to take those challenging steps towards achieving your personal goals.
(984) 600-6326 View (984) 600-6326
Photo of Nicole Heller, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Heller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength. Making your mental health a priority is one of the strongest things you can do for yourself. My number one goal as a therapist is to help you learn healthy ways to navigate difficult emotions and situations. Everyone needs and deserves a safe space to vent, brainstorm and ask for help without judgment. My job is to offer a different perspective to your current struggles and challenge you to build more effective ways of dealing with tough emotions & life changes.
Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength. Making your mental health a priority is one of the strongest things you can do for yourself. My number one goal as a therapist is to help you learn healthy ways to navigate difficult emotions and situations. Everyone needs and deserves a safe space to vent, brainstorm and ask for help without judgment. My job is to offer a different perspective to your current struggles and challenge you to build more effective ways of dealing with tough emotions & life changes.
(336) 803-7983 View (336) 803-7983
Photo of Elbisa Lindov, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Elbisa Lindov
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, NC 27215
Waitlist for new clients
When it comes to counseling one of the most courageous actions one may take is moving forward towards growth, healing, and acceptance of one's life challenges. I believe that therapy is where one may be able to flourish and create a new path towards achieving life goals. Whether the struggles are currently present or have occurred in the past it is the current movement and strength that will ultimately create a new chapter towards positivity and growth. If given the opportunity to work with you as your counselor I believe that you are the expert in your life. I am here to provide the support you may need within your journey.
When it comes to counseling one of the most courageous actions one may take is moving forward towards growth, healing, and acceptance of one's life challenges. I believe that therapy is where one may be able to flourish and create a new path towards achieving life goals. Whether the struggles are currently present or have occurred in the past it is the current movement and strength that will ultimately create a new chapter towards positivity and growth. If given the opportunity to work with you as your counselor I believe that you are the expert in your life. I am here to provide the support you may need within your journey.
(336) 800-3432 x9 View (336) 800-3432 x9
Photo of Tyela Tyler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyela Tyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Adjusting to and coping with life changes impacts us all, making normal tasks and routines difficult to follow through with. Oftentimes, it can feel like we do not know how to navigate these changes. However, I believe that as we work together to identify your strengths, you will find the methods and answers within you, and begin working toward living your life to the fullest. I have extensive experience working with clients attempting to cope with anxiety, depression, severe mental health disorders, life changes, relationship problems, and physical and emotional trauma.
Adjusting to and coping with life changes impacts us all, making normal tasks and routines difficult to follow through with. Oftentimes, it can feel like we do not know how to navigate these changes. However, I believe that as we work together to identify your strengths, you will find the methods and answers within you, and begin working toward living your life to the fullest. I have extensive experience working with clients attempting to cope with anxiety, depression, severe mental health disorders, life changes, relationship problems, and physical and emotional trauma.
(980) 280-1344 View (980) 280-1344
Photo of Krista Sabbagh, LCMHCA, Counselor
Krista Sabbagh
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
Those who consider themselves highly sensitive and often feel misunderstood can expect space to develop a better understanding of their experience and utilize the gift of high sensitivity. Being highly sensitive in today's world can feel more difficult than ever, however, it also provides the opportunity for immense growth and purpose. If you are looking to explore the inclusion of spiritual/faith-based beliefs and principles into your therapeutic journey, you have come to the right place.
Those who consider themselves highly sensitive and often feel misunderstood can expect space to develop a better understanding of their experience and utilize the gift of high sensitivity. Being highly sensitive in today's world can feel more difficult than ever, however, it also provides the opportunity for immense growth and purpose. If you are looking to explore the inclusion of spiritual/faith-based beliefs and principles into your therapeutic journey, you have come to the right place.
(704) 610-5470 View (704) 610-5470
Photo of Micah Wyatt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Micah Wyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Is your marriage struggling in areas of infidelity, trust, loss of relationship interest and other marital barriers. Or maybe you’re and Individual dealing with issues of anxiety, increased levels of stress, and low sense of belonging. This isn’t the end for you. Together, we can rebuild hope and trust between you and and your partner. We can redevelop the intimacy that may have been lost along the way. Together, we can develop your personal goals and ensure they materialize to realities for the life you desire to live. Everyone deserves happiness! Let’s work together to build that happiness for you!
Is your marriage struggling in areas of infidelity, trust, loss of relationship interest and other marital barriers. Or maybe you’re and Individual dealing with issues of anxiety, increased levels of stress, and low sense of belonging. This isn’t the end for you. Together, we can rebuild hope and trust between you and and your partner. We can redevelop the intimacy that may have been lost along the way. Together, we can develop your personal goals and ensure they materialize to realities for the life you desire to live. Everyone deserves happiness! Let’s work together to build that happiness for you!
(984) 223-5010 View (984) 223-5010
Photo of Gaither M Terrell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gaither M Terrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27262
Not accepting new clients
I have a lot of experience as a therapist and you have a lot of experience at being you. Let's put our heads together and figure things out. My approach is insight-oriented and based on psychodynamic theory. We can work well together if you're curious about yourself and willing to engage that curiosity with me in understanding how you came to be who you are, where you are now and how you can get to where you want to be.
I have a lot of experience as a therapist and you have a lot of experience at being you. Let's put our heads together and figure things out. My approach is insight-oriented and based on psychodynamic theory. We can work well together if you're curious about yourself and willing to engage that curiosity with me in understanding how you came to be who you are, where you are now and how you can get to where you want to be.
(336) 481-0288 View (336) 481-0288
Photo of Kristi Brim Rakes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Brim Rakes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Telehealth ONLY. Accepting clients in NC, SC and VA. Life is hard and everyone deserves to have an outlet to talk about their feelings. I approach my practice with compassion, empathy and nonjudgmental understanding. With my holistic mindset, I seek to help people navigate stress, mental health issues and "life" in general. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years. I have extensive training in mental health diagnosis, end of life care, and Women's issues. I am also certified in Trauma Focused CBT.
Telehealth ONLY. Accepting clients in NC, SC and VA. Life is hard and everyone deserves to have an outlet to talk about their feelings. I approach my practice with compassion, empathy and nonjudgmental understanding. With my holistic mindset, I seek to help people navigate stress, mental health issues and "life" in general. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years. I have extensive training in mental health diagnosis, end of life care, and Women's issues. I am also certified in Trauma Focused CBT.
(336) 891-9646 View (336) 891-9646
Photo of Rich Patterson, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rich Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27262
Hello! Thank you for your interest in me as a counselor. I know it is hard to guess who a good match for you may be based on a short introduction, but I will try my best to let you know who I am and how I can help. My goal is to meet you where you are, make a plan to help you make your life better and get to work making it happen.
Hello! Thank you for your interest in me as a counselor. I know it is hard to guess who a good match for you may be based on a short introduction, but I will try my best to let you know who I am and how I can help. My goal is to meet you where you are, make a plan to help you make your life better and get to work making it happen.
(336) 891-3358 View (336) 891-3358
Photo of Amelia Mathis, MS, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Amelia Mathis
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I joined the counseling profession to support clients experiencing life's challenges while navigating their healing journey. Clients may be young adults or adults grappling with past or current trauma, grief, ADHD, eating disorders, or life transitions. They might be first responders, active duty military, veterans or part of a veteran's family, survivors of religious trauma or sexual abuse, or individuals exploring their spirituality. I aim to listen, support, and empower my clients while walking alongside them through their healing journey.
I joined the counseling profession to support clients experiencing life's challenges while navigating their healing journey. Clients may be young adults or adults grappling with past or current trauma, grief, ADHD, eating disorders, or life transitions. They might be first responders, active duty military, veterans or part of a veteran's family, survivors of religious trauma or sexual abuse, or individuals exploring their spirituality. I aim to listen, support, and empower my clients while walking alongside them through their healing journey.
(336) 892-8106 View (336) 892-8106
Photo of Matthew Owen Sixberry, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Owen Sixberry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and I earned my degree from Amridge University. I have extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families to achieve wellness and balance within the family unit. I enjoy working with couples in marital and premarital therapy along with blended families. I am a veteran with 8 years in the US. Army and I understand the difficulties of transitioning to civilian life. In addition, I have worked for 20+ years in the corporate environment and I am acutely aware of the stress of the working environment, job loss, and transition to a new career.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and I earned my degree from Amridge University. I have extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families to achieve wellness and balance within the family unit. I enjoy working with couples in marital and premarital therapy along with blended families. I am a veteran with 8 years in the US. Army and I understand the difficulties of transitioning to civilian life. In addition, I have worked for 20+ years in the corporate environment and I am acutely aware of the stress of the working environment, job loss, and transition to a new career.
(336) 715-3056 View (336) 715-3056
Photo of Laura Brotherton - Kernersville Counseling Center, MA, LCMHC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kernersville Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Kernersville, NC 27284
I enjoy providing individuals with the opportunity to address problems in a safe and supportive environment that encourages growth toward self-awareness, coping and overall wellness. I have experience in offering counseling for a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. I am especially interested in helping families to create or restore peace within their home by utilizing play therapy techniques with children and strengthening parenting skills with adults. I also enjoy helping people overcome the effects of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have training in EMDR and I am a Certified TF-CBT therapist.
I enjoy providing individuals with the opportunity to address problems in a safe and supportive environment that encourages growth toward self-awareness, coping and overall wellness. I have experience in offering counseling for a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. I am especially interested in helping families to create or restore peace within their home by utilizing play therapy techniques with children and strengthening parenting skills with adults. I also enjoy helping people overcome the effects of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have training in EMDR and I am a Certified TF-CBT therapist.
(336) 554-7245 x5 View (336) 554-7245 x5
Photo of Rebecca Crabtree, LCMHC
Rebecca Crabtree
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Not accepting new clients
I recognize the courage it takes to pursue therapy and am truly honored to come along side you on your journey toward emotional health and well being. I believe in treating each individual with respect, kindness, and compassion. I strive to create a safe environment for you to feel heard. It is my goal to empower each person with the self-awareness and self-confidence necessary to express their voice and advocate for themself.
I recognize the courage it takes to pursue therapy and am truly honored to come along side you on your journey toward emotional health and well being. I believe in treating each individual with respect, kindness, and compassion. I strive to create a safe environment for you to feel heard. It is my goal to empower each person with the self-awareness and self-confidence necessary to express their voice and advocate for themself.
(336) 815-4621 View (336) 815-4621
Photo of J. Sophia Cory, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
J. Sophia Cory
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Waitlist for new clients
Thanks for taking a look at my page! I'm a queer, trans, and neurodivergent counselor in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, NC. I'm passionate about helping others develop new skills, find self-acceptance, and engage in a process of personal transformation. Whatever you are bringing to the table, I am here to be with you in your experience and help you along the way. Through authentic, healing relationships, I believe that we can begin to let go of barriers that keep us distant from others and our sources of meaning in life.
Thanks for taking a look at my page! I'm a queer, trans, and neurodivergent counselor in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, NC. I'm passionate about helping others develop new skills, find self-acceptance, and engage in a process of personal transformation. Whatever you are bringing to the table, I am here to be with you in your experience and help you along the way. Through authentic, healing relationships, I believe that we can begin to let go of barriers that keep us distant from others and our sources of meaning in life.
(336) 649-4551 View (336) 649-4551
Photo of Valencia Sandersdavis - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(919) 373-6068 View (919) 373-6068
Photo of Janelle Hoover-Pollock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janelle Hoover-Pollock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mayodan, NC 27027
I’ve been in the mental health field for over 20 years and have been providing clinical care since 2011. I’ve worked with first responders crisis settings and provided services to first responders in a therapeutic environment. I work a lot with domestic violence, sexual trauma, and human trafficking. I pull from several modalities including CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, solutions focused, strength-based, and reality therapy. I like working with people who are motivated to improve their lives. Because I work with such a wide range of issues, I can be helpful and supportive in many different areas.
I’ve been in the mental health field for over 20 years and have been providing clinical care since 2011. I’ve worked with first responders crisis settings and provided services to first responders in a therapeutic environment. I work a lot with domestic violence, sexual trauma, and human trafficking. I pull from several modalities including CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, solutions focused, strength-based, and reality therapy. I like working with people who are motivated to improve their lives. Because I work with such a wide range of issues, I can be helpful and supportive in many different areas.
(980) 677-4451 View (980) 677-4451
Photo of Kirby Jones, LCMHCA, MDiv, Counselor
Kirby Jones
Counselor, LCMHCA, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! If you or your child is struggling with the challenges of being human in today's world, I am here for you. I strive to empower clients who are reauthoring the limiting stories in their lives and creating new narratives of growth, healing, and self-compassion. My experiences working with children, adolescents, and young adults in a variety of school and community settings have provided a wonderful foundation for my clinical work, but I will always treat YOU as the most important resource in your healing journey.
Welcome! If you or your child is struggling with the challenges of being human in today's world, I am here for you. I strive to empower clients who are reauthoring the limiting stories in their lives and creating new narratives of growth, healing, and self-compassion. My experiences working with children, adolescents, and young adults in a variety of school and community settings have provided a wonderful foundation for my clinical work, but I will always treat YOU as the most important resource in your healing journey.
(336) 559-5502 View (336) 559-5502

See more therapy options for 27420

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 27420

< 10

Therapists in 27420 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Parenting
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Divorce
100% Family Conflict

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Oxford

How Therapists in 27420 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 27420?

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.