Therapists in 28657

Photo of Jody R Gardner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jody R Gardner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing since 2005. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing since 2005. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
(828) 358-1737 View (828) 358-1737
Photo of Craig B McKinney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Craig B McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years in the field with experience treating a wide range of psychological issues. I have experience working with people of all ages including college students . I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Additionally, I have enjoyed working with people experiencing the more severe symptoms of mental health so that they may live a more stable and fulfilling life. I am located in Boone NC but can offer Telehealth services to those in need anywhere in North Carolina
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years in the field with experience treating a wide range of psychological issues. I have experience working with people of all ages including college students . I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Additionally, I have enjoyed working with people experiencing the more severe symptoms of mental health so that they may live a more stable and fulfilling life. I am located in Boone NC but can offer Telehealth services to those in need anywhere in North Carolina
(828) 268-3692 View (828) 268-3692
Photo of Abigail Eason, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Abigail Eason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Serves Area
The bulk of my practice has been in community mental health where I have worked with adults, youth, and families. I also interned at a local domestic violence center and as a chaplain and what I have learned is that almost everyone has been touched by trauma in some way and that we all struggle at times - to resolve conflict, to adjust to life changes, to fully understand ourselves and those around us, to achieve our goals. Whether you have experienced significant challenges in life or simply need a listening ear, my goal is to create a safe environment where you can find the support you need to make the progress you desire.
The bulk of my practice has been in community mental health where I have worked with adults, youth, and families. I also interned at a local domestic violence center and as a chaplain and what I have learned is that almost everyone has been touched by trauma in some way and that we all struggle at times - to resolve conflict, to adjust to life changes, to fully understand ourselves and those around us, to achieve our goals. Whether you have experienced significant challenges in life or simply need a listening ear, my goal is to create a safe environment where you can find the support you need to make the progress you desire.
(828) 752-8012 View (828) 752-8012
Photo of Peter Paglen - Better Days and Nights, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCSW, LCMHCA, LCSWA
Better Days and Nights, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCSW, LCMHCA, LCSWA
Serves Area
We are a group practice, we take many different insurances, and file your claims for you. Our therapists will work with you to help find understanding, a solution or a change for you or your situation. Counseling/Therapy is based on you and your situation alone. Everyone is different and everyone's situation is different, so we will create an individual plan for you and your specific concerns. There is no use of a template or generalized formula. The therapeutic formula we decide on will come from you and your concerns. The counseling experience will be unique to you and your situation.
We are a group practice, we take many different insurances, and file your claims for you. Our therapists will work with you to help find understanding, a solution or a change for you or your situation. Counseling/Therapy is based on you and your situation alone. Everyone is different and everyone's situation is different, so we will create an individual plan for you and your specific concerns. There is no use of a template or generalized formula. The therapeutic formula we decide on will come from you and your concerns. The counseling experience will be unique to you and your situation.
(828) 266-0407 View (828) 266-0407
Photo of Melissa R Parlier - Melissa R. Parlier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melissa R. Parlier, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you having difficulty bouncing back after a traumatic experience? Are you having difficulties in a relationship? I can help! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience providing trauma-informed services to children, adults, families, and couples. Areas of specialization include: anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, grief and loss, child/adolescent behavior problems, adjustment and phase of life issues, and interpersonal relationship problems.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you having difficulty bouncing back after a traumatic experience? Are you having difficulties in a relationship? I can help! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience providing trauma-informed services to children, adults, families, and couples. Areas of specialization include: anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, grief and loss, child/adolescent behavior problems, adjustment and phase of life issues, and interpersonal relationship problems.
(828) 394-4320 View (828) 394-4320
Photo of Andrea M Marsh - Mountain Lotus Therapy Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Mountain Lotus Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Serves Area
My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
(828) 457-8757 View (828) 457-8757
Photo of Kristin Mignogna, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NCC
Kristin Mignogna
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy for adults, aged 25+, who are struggling with chronic pain/illness, complex trauma, and/or neurodivergence (primarily ADHD and ASD). I utilize experiential, relational, and cognitive-behavioral techniques, catering my approach to each individual client's needs. This means that I help my clients process their emotions, heal relationships, and shift toward more adaptive thought and behavioral patterns. Above all, I strive to create a space of trust, non-judgment, and safety in which clients can heal, grow, and develop self-compassion. I aim to help clients gain a sense of empowerment, fulfillment, and contentment.
I provide therapy for adults, aged 25+, who are struggling with chronic pain/illness, complex trauma, and/or neurodivergence (primarily ADHD and ASD). I utilize experiential, relational, and cognitive-behavioral techniques, catering my approach to each individual client's needs. This means that I help my clients process their emotions, heal relationships, and shift toward more adaptive thought and behavioral patterns. Above all, I strive to create a space of trust, non-judgment, and safety in which clients can heal, grow, and develop self-compassion. I aim to help clients gain a sense of empowerment, fulfillment, and contentment.
(828) 752-8448 View (828) 752-8448
Photo of Dr. Luisa Jimenez-Ruble, Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Dr. Luisa Jimenez-Ruble
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Dr. Luisa Jimenez-Ruble and I am a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist in North Carolina. I have over five years of experience working with adults across the age spectrum with a wide range of concerns, diverse backgrounds, and treatment goals. I have extensive experience working with a variety of presenting concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic and progressive medical conditions, emotional regulation difficulties, first-generation issues, and life transitions.
Welcome! My name is Dr. Luisa Jimenez-Ruble and I am a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist in North Carolina. I have over five years of experience working with adults across the age spectrum with a wide range of concerns, diverse backgrounds, and treatment goals. I have extensive experience working with a variety of presenting concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic and progressive medical conditions, emotional regulation difficulties, first-generation issues, and life transitions.
(828) 457-8022 View (828) 457-8022
Photo of Mkayla Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mkayla Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
At the core of my work is the belief that healing begins in the context of a safe and supportive relationship. I prioritize creating a trauma informed therapeutic space - one that honors your story, centers your voices, and supports you in showing up as your full, authentic self. I recognize that our individual experiences are shaped not only by personal history, but also by the broader systems we live within - systems that include oppression, marginalization, and inequality. I approach therapy with an awareness of how our identities and experiences within our environments intersect with mental health.
At the core of my work is the belief that healing begins in the context of a safe and supportive relationship. I prioritize creating a trauma informed therapeutic space - one that honors your story, centers your voices, and supports you in showing up as your full, authentic self. I recognize that our individual experiences are shaped not only by personal history, but also by the broader systems we live within - systems that include oppression, marginalization, and inequality. I approach therapy with an awareness of how our identities and experiences within our environments intersect with mental health.
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Photo of Pete Paglen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS
Pete Paglen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
(828) 457-8331 View (828) 457-8331
Photo of Nathan Bates, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Nathan Bates
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Online Only
I'm glad you found me. I approach therapy as a partnership to address the concerns you face in daily life. I have worked extensively with some of the most pressing issues that people can face, including childhood and adult trauma and addiction and I consider it a privilege to have had many people trust me in their darkest moments. I work best with people who are seeking positive changes and wanting to understand themselves and their world. I know that you are the expert in your life, and want to help you examine your experiences, make your strengths work for you, and build new skills to reach your goals.
I'm glad you found me. I approach therapy as a partnership to address the concerns you face in daily life. I have worked extensively with some of the most pressing issues that people can face, including childhood and adult trauma and addiction and I consider it a privilege to have had many people trust me in their darkest moments. I work best with people who are seeking positive changes and wanting to understand themselves and their world. I know that you are the expert in your life, and want to help you examine your experiences, make your strengths work for you, and build new skills to reach your goals.
(828) 537-8475 View (828) 537-8475
Photo of Taylor Gabriel, Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Taylor Gabriel
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I see adults at the individual level and some of my specialties include Trauma, ADHD/Autism, anxiety, religious deconstruction, and working though some good ole crippling existential dread. I work well with clients who have hit a wall with talk therapy and want to go deeper and shift things talk therapy couldn’t. When I asked my clients what they liked most about me some of the things they said were they like that I am a safe person who is easy to connect with, I laugh and joke a lot, genuinely care about them, and actually use tools to help them in a way others did not.
Welcome! I see adults at the individual level and some of my specialties include Trauma, ADHD/Autism, anxiety, religious deconstruction, and working though some good ole crippling existential dread. I work well with clients who have hit a wall with talk therapy and want to go deeper and shift things talk therapy couldn’t. When I asked my clients what they liked most about me some of the things they said were they like that I am a safe person who is easy to connect with, I laugh and joke a lot, genuinely care about them, and actually use tools to help them in a way others did not.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sara N Lowery - Essential Waters Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Essential Waters Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Marion, NC 28752
I am Sara Lowery, a person-centered, trauma-informed, harm-reduction therapist at Essential Waters Counseling. I bring authenticity, kindness, realism, and attention to detail to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. I help clients explore life’s challenges, gain insight into patterns, build meaningful connections, and grow in self-awareness and resilience. Together, we uncover your strengths and help you navigate change at a pace that feels safe and comfortable.
I am Sara Lowery, a person-centered, trauma-informed, harm-reduction therapist at Essential Waters Counseling. I bring authenticity, kindness, realism, and attention to detail to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. I help clients explore life’s challenges, gain insight into patterns, build meaningful connections, and grow in self-awareness and resilience. Together, we uncover your strengths and help you navigate change at a pace that feels safe and comfortable.
(828) 332-5388 View (828) 332-5388
Photo of Melinda A. Palmer, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Melinda A. Palmer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Morganton, NC 28655
I have a passion for coming alongside women with complex needs including trauma, domestic violence, PTSD and cPTSD, faith-based abuse, struggles with midlife and identity, anxiety, and depression. I believe therapy is a journey, and my role is to walk beside you—offering support, insight, and empowerment as you find your way toward healing and wholeness.
I have a passion for coming alongside women with complex needs including trauma, domestic violence, PTSD and cPTSD, faith-based abuse, struggles with midlife and identity, anxiety, and depression. I believe therapy is a journey, and my role is to walk beside you—offering support, insight, and empowerment as you find your way toward healing and wholeness.
(828) 344-5998 View (828) 344-5998
Photo of Marie N Gannon, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Marie N Gannon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Serves Area
I love helping women through times of transition. When I look at my own life the times of transition were often the most painful and also the places where the most growth and change happened. If you find yourself needing extra support as your try to become pregnant, struggle with mood issues during your pregnancy or postpartum; need help transitioning into parenthood; want to improve yourself and your relationships, or any other of life's many transitions I would love to help you along your journey.
I love helping women through times of transition. When I look at my own life the times of transition were often the most painful and also the places where the most growth and change happened. If you find yourself needing extra support as your try to become pregnant, struggle with mood issues during your pregnancy or postpartum; need help transitioning into parenthood; want to improve yourself and your relationships, or any other of life's many transitions I would love to help you along your journey.
(828) 888-0299 View (828) 888-0299
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Holmes, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Sarah Elizabeth Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Boone, NC 28607
My approach is focussed on helping you feel understood and empowered to make positive changes in your relationships with others and with yourself. I bring a systemic view to my practice to help you identify patterns that are not working for you and help you develop healthier patterns that lead to more fulfilling relationships. I believe in infusing our sessions with warmth, honesty, a sprinkle of humor, and the latest reseach-backed techniques to help you reach your goals.
My approach is focussed on helping you feel understood and empowered to make positive changes in your relationships with others and with yourself. I bring a systemic view to my practice to help you identify patterns that are not working for you and help you develop healthier patterns that lead to more fulfilling relationships. I believe in infusing our sessions with warmth, honesty, a sprinkle of humor, and the latest reseach-backed techniques to help you reach your goals.
(828) 382-8527 View (828) 382-8527
Photo of Karen Piekarski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Piekarski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Boone, NC 28607
We are all unique individuals and your journey is unique as well, as is my approach. I am here to assist you in finding your own sense of well-being and to support you every step of the way in your exploration of self. I believe that life is about finding balance and learning to navigate our paths with mindfulness and joy. In our sessions, we will work together to uncover your strengths, explore new perspectives, and develop practical strategies to help you achieve your therapeutic goals.
We are all unique individuals and your journey is unique as well, as is my approach. I am here to assist you in finding your own sense of well-being and to support you every step of the way in your exploration of self. I believe that life is about finding balance and learning to navigate our paths with mindfulness and joy. In our sessions, we will work together to uncover your strengths, explore new perspectives, and develop practical strategies to help you achieve your therapeutic goals.
(828) 760-8830 View (828) 760-8830
Photo of Liz Burrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Liz Burrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Therapy offers a safe place to turn when life feels overwhelming. People often come with concerns around trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or substance use. Beneath these struggles is often a desire to feel at home in their body, to quiet self-doubt, and to experience more connection. Together, we can create a path toward healing, resilience, and greater compassion- for yourself and in your relationships.
Therapy offers a safe place to turn when life feels overwhelming. People often come with concerns around trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or substance use. Beneath these struggles is often a desire to feel at home in their body, to quiet self-doubt, and to experience more connection. Together, we can create a path toward healing, resilience, and greater compassion- for yourself and in your relationships.
(828) 501-9181 View (828) 501-9181
Photo of Debra Kay Peters - Wisdom Path, PLLC, Psychologist
Wisdom Path, PLLC
Psychologist
Morganton, NC 28655
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
(828) 475-8940 View (828) 475-8940
Photo of Scot Robinson, Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA
Scot Robinson
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA
Marion, NC 28752
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move past life’s challenges? Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, struggling with persistent feelings of anxiety or depression, or just feel like you aren’t reaching your fullest potential, I am here to help. I believe that healing starts with being truly heard. As an active listener and a compassionate source of support, I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unable to move past life’s challenges? Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, struggling with persistent feelings of anxiety or depression, or just feel like you aren’t reaching your fullest potential, I am here to help. I believe that healing starts with being truly heard. As an active listener and a compassionate source of support, I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings.
(828) 576-3425 View (828) 576-3425

See more therapy options for 28657

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28657

10+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 28657 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
83% Relationship Issues
83% Depression
83% Self Esteem
83% Stress
75% Grief

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 28657 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

55% Female
45% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28657?

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.