Therapists in 27614

Photo of Allissa Marquez, Psychologist, PhD
Allissa Marquez
Psychologist, PhD
Raleigh, NC 27614
Are you someone who had always thought therapy wasn't for you? Did it seem too fluffy and uncomfortable? And yet, you find yourself here because you are at a stuck point in life and need to make a change. Sometimes we find ourselves moving through patterns that just aren't working for us anymore, or knowing exactly what we need to do but feeling lost about how to put it into practice. If this sounds like you, I'd like to help. Email is the Preferred Method of Contact.
Are you someone who had always thought therapy wasn't for you? Did it seem too fluffy and uncomfortable? And yet, you find yourself here because you are at a stuck point in life and need to make a change. Sometimes we find ourselves moving through patterns that just aren't working for us anymore, or knowing exactly what we need to do but feeling lost about how to put it into practice. If this sounds like you, I'd like to help. Email is the Preferred Method of Contact.
(984) 305-3797 View (984) 305-3797
Photo of Elizabeth Robinette, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Elizabeth Robinette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent-identifying folx navigate a world designed by and for a neurotypical brain. I am an ardent advocate for neurodiversity and view ADHD as a brain style. My focus, through empirically supported coaching and solution-focused counseling, is to transform “disorder” into an asset. I partner with my clients to develop skills that compensate for the difficult parts of their diagnosis, while celebrating the amazing qualities of their neurodivergent brain.
I am passionate about helping neurodivergent-identifying folx navigate a world designed by and for a neurotypical brain. I am an ardent advocate for neurodiversity and view ADHD as a brain style. My focus, through empirically supported coaching and solution-focused counseling, is to transform “disorder” into an asset. I partner with my clients to develop skills that compensate for the difficult parts of their diagnosis, while celebrating the amazing qualities of their neurodivergent brain.
(919) 858-2979 View (919) 858-2979
Photo of Sam Arbella, Counselor, LCMHCA
Sam Arbella
Counselor, LCMHCA
Online Only
Hey there! I’m a bicultural second-gen Latina passionate about working with other bicultural and minoritized clients as they explore their identity and break harmful generational cycles, especially within the context of first and second gen Latine experiences. I work with adults experiencing major life changes, anxiety, and stress. Together, we'll dive deep into your concerns, whether they stem from your family of origin, parental relationships, childhood environment, or the impacts of sexual and domestic violence. We'll also tackle that little voice inside your head, helping you reshape your self-talk into something empowering.
Hey there! I’m a bicultural second-gen Latina passionate about working with other bicultural and minoritized clients as they explore their identity and break harmful generational cycles, especially within the context of first and second gen Latine experiences. I work with adults experiencing major life changes, anxiety, and stress. Together, we'll dive deep into your concerns, whether they stem from your family of origin, parental relationships, childhood environment, or the impacts of sexual and domestic violence. We'll also tackle that little voice inside your head, helping you reshape your self-talk into something empowering.
(919) 213-1331 View (919) 213-1331
Photo of Perla Haros, Pre-Licensed Professional
Perla Haros
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
I'm Perla Haros, a dedicated educator passionate about supporting students in their learning journey and emotional development. I specialize in serving the English and Spanish populations. With a Bachelor's degree in Special Education focused on the intellectual area, I bring over a decade of experience working with children ages 5-17. Throughout my career in education, I often felt extremely rewarded when given the opportunity to aid a child in learning how to regulate his/her emotions. My Montessori certification has further enriched my counseling approaches, fostering independence, creativity, and critical thinking.
I'm Perla Haros, a dedicated educator passionate about supporting students in their learning journey and emotional development. I specialize in serving the English and Spanish populations. With a Bachelor's degree in Special Education focused on the intellectual area, I bring over a decade of experience working with children ages 5-17. Throughout my career in education, I often felt extremely rewarded when given the opportunity to aid a child in learning how to regulate his/her emotions. My Montessori certification has further enriched my counseling approaches, fostering independence, creativity, and critical thinking.
(984) 283-5006 View (984) 283-5006
Photo of Daniel Shawn Ayers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Daniel Shawn Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
Dedicated and accomplished behavioral health professional with 25 years of experience devoted to working with adults, children and families in a variety of settings. Specialize in working with Veterans, current Service members and families, couples and adults. Expertise in dealing with trauma related disorders, anxiety, depression, and relational distress.
Dedicated and accomplished behavioral health professional with 25 years of experience devoted to working with adults, children and families in a variety of settings. Specialize in working with Veterans, current Service members and families, couples and adults. Expertise in dealing with trauma related disorders, anxiety, depression, and relational distress.
(919) 849-3620 View (919) 849-3620
Photo of Sam Collis, Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Sam Collis
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Raleigh, NC 27614
I work with clients that range in age from 18 to 65. I am skilled and experienced in working with women and men on a wide variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief & loss, self-image and self-esteem, stress management, ADD/ADHD, life transitions, trauma, and couples & marital problems. I have special interests in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and other mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Gottman Level 1 certified, Prepare & Enrich certified, and SYMBIS certified.
I work with clients that range in age from 18 to 65. I am skilled and experienced in working with women and men on a wide variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief & loss, self-image and self-esteem, stress management, ADD/ADHD, life transitions, trauma, and couples & marital problems. I have special interests in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and other mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Gottman Level 1 certified, Prepare & Enrich certified, and SYMBIS certified.
(984) 203-6684 View (984) 203-6684
Photo of Betty A Brandon, MA, MACert, CCMA
Betty A Brandon
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
If your ready to be empowered, I offer comprehensive psychoeducational services that provide help to children, adolescents, parents & families on their journeys.I enjoy working with children & families who desire growth in any area, including academics, behavioral &/or those on the autism spectrum. I am an enthusiastic, compassionate clinician who believes that individuals can excel & reach their goals. Using proven methods as well as innovative & creative techniques, together we can progress & learn to overcome obstacles. Everyone is a unique individual & I take a tailor made approach with each client. Using strengths to overcome weaknesses...
If your ready to be empowered, I offer comprehensive psychoeducational services that provide help to children, adolescents, parents & families on their journeys.I enjoy working with children & families who desire growth in any area, including academics, behavioral &/or those on the autism spectrum. I am an enthusiastic, compassionate clinician who believes that individuals can excel & reach their goals. Using proven methods as well as innovative & creative techniques, together we can progress & learn to overcome obstacles. Everyone is a unique individual & I take a tailor made approach with each client. Using strengths to overcome weaknesses...
(919) 728-5767 View (919) 728-5767
Photo of Melissa Lancaster McCurry, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA
Melissa Lancaster McCurry
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMHC, LCMHC, LCASA
Raleigh, NC 27614
Accepting Clients! Do you struggle with feeling happy, communicating clearly, or building fulfilling relationships? Do you wonder how past trauma is still affecting you? Understanding your past can be the key to your future! Together, we will explore issues such as survival of interpersonal violence, an addicted parent, witnessing a violent event, natural disasters and other traumatic events that have contributed to your addictive behaviors, mental illness, or unhealthy relationships. With this knowledge we will discuss healthy coping skills, building a support network, and planning for safety in the face of your triggers.
Accepting Clients! Do you struggle with feeling happy, communicating clearly, or building fulfilling relationships? Do you wonder how past trauma is still affecting you? Understanding your past can be the key to your future! Together, we will explore issues such as survival of interpersonal violence, an addicted parent, witnessing a violent event, natural disasters and other traumatic events that have contributed to your addictive behaviors, mental illness, or unhealthy relationships. With this knowledge we will discuss healthy coping skills, building a support network, and planning for safety in the face of your triggers.
(984) 205-9133 View (984) 205-9133
Photo of Nancy Brito, LMFT Associate
Nancy Brito
LMFT Associate
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
In a relationship, “trauma” shows up when one or both partners’ find themselves triggered by the other—they become tense and anxious or somewhat disengaged. Communication breaks down. And the love and rhythms they once shared just don’t work anymore. They find themselves coping through life and marriage. Whether your trauma was shared or not, your relationship struggles through the consequences.
In a relationship, “trauma” shows up when one or both partners’ find themselves triggered by the other—they become tense and anxious or somewhat disengaged. Communication breaks down. And the love and rhythms they once shared just don’t work anymore. They find themselves coping through life and marriage. Whether your trauma was shared or not, your relationship struggles through the consequences.
(919) 893-0040 View (919) 893-0040
Photo of Jaclyn Sappah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Jaclyn Sappah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain? Do you live in CA/NC/NY?
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain? Do you live in CA/NC/NY?
(336) 396-7763 View (336) 396-7763
Photo of Leigh Ann Fernandez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Leigh Ann Fernandez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
I help clients understand and conquer stress responses in their body, once and for all, by neutralizing awful sensations and problematic core beliefs. Trauma leaves us feeling damaged, robbed of who we once were or could have been. You’re someone who deeply desires to feel safe and connected with yourself and others but still find yourself ruled by triggers, feeling out of control of your emotions and reactions. You may be feeling shame that you can’t “get over it." You have an idea of how you want to show up in your relationships and life but have no idea how to get there. I'd be honored to help you craft that safe place to land.
I help clients understand and conquer stress responses in their body, once and for all, by neutralizing awful sensations and problematic core beliefs. Trauma leaves us feeling damaged, robbed of who we once were or could have been. You’re someone who deeply desires to feel safe and connected with yourself and others but still find yourself ruled by triggers, feeling out of control of your emotions and reactions. You may be feeling shame that you can’t “get over it." You have an idea of how you want to show up in your relationships and life but have no idea how to get there. I'd be honored to help you craft that safe place to land.
(919) 864-2756 View (919) 864-2756
Photo of Judith Ann Stubanas, RN, MA, LCMHC
Judith Ann Stubanas
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
New clients accepted for teletherapy via a secure link. Please know you will receive ethical, non-judgmental, confidential and compassionate counseling. When any type of stress or trauma, PTSD or chronic pain becomes overwhelming, I will assist you assist you in finding ways to meet your overall physical and emotional needs in balance. I have an interest in addressing the impact of nutrition on mental and physical health. As a counselor and a nurse, I want to provide hope, resources and practical coping skills to live with life's challenges and experience peace, healing and joy.
New clients accepted for teletherapy via a secure link. Please know you will receive ethical, non-judgmental, confidential and compassionate counseling. When any type of stress or trauma, PTSD or chronic pain becomes overwhelming, I will assist you assist you in finding ways to meet your overall physical and emotional needs in balance. I have an interest in addressing the impact of nutrition on mental and physical health. As a counselor and a nurse, I want to provide hope, resources and practical coping skills to live with life's challenges and experience peace, healing and joy.
(919) 263-2903 x259 View (919) 263-2903 x259
Photo of Romayne Mappes - Off the Couch, LLC, Counselor, MA, LCPC-S, LCMHC
Off the Couch, LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC-S, LCMHC
Raleigh, NC 27614
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
(984) 266-2750 View (984) 266-2750
Photo of Cynthia J. D'Amico, Psychologist, PhD
Cynthia J. D'Amico
Psychologist, PhD
Raleigh, NC 27614
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and/or trauma that is interfering with achieving your personal or professional goals or a sense of well-being? Comparing yourself to everyone and feeling left behind? Having difficulty maintaining a sense of purpose or meaning in life? Late teen and young adult parenting issues? I specialize in life transition, relationship issues, parental alienation and grief therapies to address losses through death, divorce and estrangement. I will be your active partner, listening and problem-solving with you every step of the way.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and/or trauma that is interfering with achieving your personal or professional goals or a sense of well-being? Comparing yourself to everyone and feeling left behind? Having difficulty maintaining a sense of purpose or meaning in life? Late teen and young adult parenting issues? I specialize in life transition, relationship issues, parental alienation and grief therapies to address losses through death, divorce and estrangement. I will be your active partner, listening and problem-solving with you every step of the way.
(919) 283-1904 View (919) 283-1904
Photo of Caroline Rusk, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Caroline Rusk
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Online Only
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges. As someone who grew up in a large, blended, family, I have a deep appreciation for complex family dynamics and the challenges of adjustment. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand the difficulty of being in spaces where one cannot fully express their authentic self. My previous experience within a strict evangelical organization offers me perspective on healing from religious trauma. These lived experiences developed a natural compassion for others with these and other layered identities.
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges. As someone who grew up in a large, blended, family, I have a deep appreciation for complex family dynamics and the challenges of adjustment. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand the difficulty of being in spaces where one cannot fully express their authentic self. My previous experience within a strict evangelical organization offers me perspective on healing from religious trauma. These lived experiences developed a natural compassion for others with these and other layered identities.
(984) 310-8707 View (984) 310-8707
Photo of Mignon N Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mignon N Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or constantly anxious? Maybe you're struggling in your relationships—at home or at work—or feeling the weight of unhealed trauma. You deserve support that meets you where you are, without judgment. I provide a warm, holistic space where you can feel heard, helped, and truly begin to heal.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or constantly anxious? Maybe you're struggling in your relationships—at home or at work—or feeling the weight of unhealed trauma. You deserve support that meets you where you are, without judgment. I provide a warm, holistic space where you can feel heard, helped, and truly begin to heal.
(984) 313-9782 View (984) 313-9782
Photo of Mel Johnson-Norwood, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, EdD, CRC, NCC, BC-TMH
Mel Johnson-Norwood
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, EdD, CRC, NCC, BC-TMH
Online Only
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
(984) 369-9915 View (984) 369-9915
Photo of Dr. Lamont Barnett, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCASA , CPLC , MAC, CNHP
Dr. Lamont Barnett
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCASA , CPLC , MAC, CNHP
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
I specialize in helping you navigate through life's challenges, learn how to be more aware of your thoughts, feelings, emotions, surroundings, situations, & to reduce automatic responses. My clients are often experiencing stressors related to burnout, life transitions, life stagnation, relationships, perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome, high achievement/striving, challenging family dynamics, & struggling with managing anxiety/depression symptoms, addictions, or just feeling "stuck". The goal is to find your peace, recognize that you are not separated by your mental, physical, & spiritual health but interdependently connected by them.
I specialize in helping you navigate through life's challenges, learn how to be more aware of your thoughts, feelings, emotions, surroundings, situations, & to reduce automatic responses. My clients are often experiencing stressors related to burnout, life transitions, life stagnation, relationships, perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome, high achievement/striving, challenging family dynamics, & struggling with managing anxiety/depression symptoms, addictions, or just feeling "stuck". The goal is to find your peace, recognize that you are not separated by your mental, physical, & spiritual health but interdependently connected by them.
(919) 823-6602 View (919) 823-6602
Photo of Frances De Los Santos, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Frances De Los Santos
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Online Only
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
(919) 246-8753 View (919) 246-8753
Photo of Mary M Lloyd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Mary M Lloyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Online Only
Do you feel that something in your life is not working for you? Are you interested in exploring patterns and motivations that are problematic in your relationships or in your work? Through compassionate and collaborative exploration, my goal is to help you build increased self-awareness and form new understandings of your past and present. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for in-depth work with adults and couples.
Do you feel that something in your life is not working for you? Are you interested in exploring patterns and motivations that are problematic in your relationships or in your work? Through compassionate and collaborative exploration, my goal is to help you build increased self-awareness and form new understandings of your past and present. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for in-depth work with adults and couples.
(984) 207-3448 View (984) 207-3448

See more therapy options for 27614

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 27614

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 27614 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
75% Coping Skills
73% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
53% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 27614 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 27614?

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.