Photo of Alice Perez Blackburn, MA, LCMHC
Alice Perez Blackburn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
Many of my clients find that people pleasing and trying to be perfect all the time are no longer working for them. They struggle to set boundaries, communicate assertively and get in touch with how they feel and what they need. Maybe you're tired and confused by conflicting mental health tips on social media? You need a safe and compassionate environment to dig into some of the trauma you've experienced without being overwhelmed by it. Or maybe you're a millennial parent navigating reparenting yourself while parenting your children and you need some support. My clients prefer a therapist who is warm, real and uses humor in session.
Many of my clients find that people pleasing and trying to be perfect all the time are no longer working for them. They struggle to set boundaries, communicate assertively and get in touch with how they feel and what they need. Maybe you're tired and confused by conflicting mental health tips on social media? You need a safe and compassionate environment to dig into some of the trauma you've experienced without being overwhelmed by it. Or maybe you're a millennial parent navigating reparenting yourself while parenting your children and you need some support. My clients prefer a therapist who is warm, real and uses humor in session.
(828) 532-6520 View (828) 532-6520
Photo of Jeff H Thompson, MA, LCMHC
Jeff H Thompson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
We all struggle with some degree of anxiety, trauma, some kinds of interpersonal challenges. It really helps to have someone to help us navigate these struggles and build skills. As a therapist, I offer lots of ideas and practices, and the folks who get the most out of our work are willing to try things out on their own. I offer these approaches with kindness, authenticity, and a sense of humor. There’s no reason therapy can’t be fun!
We all struggle with some degree of anxiety, trauma, some kinds of interpersonal challenges. It really helps to have someone to help us navigate these struggles and build skills. As a therapist, I offer lots of ideas and practices, and the folks who get the most out of our work are willing to try things out on their own. I offer these approaches with kindness, authenticity, and a sense of humor. There’s no reason therapy can’t be fun!
(828) 944-8113 View (828) 944-8113
Photo of Tina Okpych, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Tina Okpych
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I enjoy working with individuals as they navigate their way through challenging life experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients are able to develop a better understanding of themselves and their world. I feel it is imperative to form relationships built on trust, and believe that real progress can only be achieved when such a relationship exists.
I enjoy working with individuals as they navigate their way through challenging life experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients are able to develop a better understanding of themselves and their world. I feel it is imperative to form relationships built on trust, and believe that real progress can only be achieved when such a relationship exists.
(828) 501-0918 View (828) 501-0918
Photo of Karen S. Cottingham, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen S. Cottingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
Sometimes it's hard to relax when you feel tired, stuck and overwhelmed. It's your turn to feel better. I can help you learn the tools to manage anxiety so you can relax, feel less stress and increase your energy. Give yourself the opportunity to discover new ways to overcome the difficult challenges. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sometimes it's hard to relax when you feel tired, stuck and overwhelmed. It's your turn to feel better. I can help you learn the tools to manage anxiety so you can relax, feel less stress and increase your energy. Give yourself the opportunity to discover new ways to overcome the difficult challenges. I look forward to hearing from you.
(828) 826-1546 View (828) 826-1546
Photo of Caroline Miller, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Hi! Does your child or teenager need help with anxiety or depression? Do they need coping skills or help managing life's many changes? Is your kid having trouble learning social skills? Life is hard for all of us, but sometimes our children and teens need extra help learning how to manage big feelings while they try to figure out who they are.
Hi! Does your child or teenager need help with anxiety or depression? Do they need coping skills or help managing life's many changes? Is your kid having trouble learning social skills? Life is hard for all of us, but sometimes our children and teens need extra help learning how to manage big feelings while they try to figure out who they are.
(828) 827-4972 View (828) 827-4972
Photo of Naomi McDonald, LCMHC, Counselor
Naomi McDonald
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Naomi McDonald, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who lived in the mountains of Western NC for more than 25 years. I'm a mom of an adult daughter and have so enjoyed her and the parenting experience. I've been licensed for 12 years and enjoy working with teens and adults who have addictions, eating disorders, family/relationship issues , anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach and also enjoy incorporating spirituality into sessions whether it be by mindfulness meditation, breathing meditations, or Christian principles. I'm currently seeing clients by telehealth only.
Hi, I'm Naomi McDonald, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who lived in the mountains of Western NC for more than 25 years. I'm a mom of an adult daughter and have so enjoyed her and the parenting experience. I've been licensed for 12 years and enjoy working with teens and adults who have addictions, eating disorders, family/relationship issues , anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach and also enjoy incorporating spirituality into sessions whether it be by mindfulness meditation, breathing meditations, or Christian principles. I'm currently seeing clients by telehealth only.
(828) 761-3084 View (828) 761-3084
Photo of Hunter Waldrop, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hunter Waldrop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Change can be difficult. Therapy provides support as you adapt to life's countless changes and curveballs. As a clinical social worker, I have spent time working alongside teens, young adults, and adults as they work through issues varying from hospitalization to exploring substance use and its effects on daily life, behavioral issues, and family conflict. I draw extensively from Maslow's hierarchy of needs and help clients explore their immediate basic needs and safety while addressing love and belonging, self-esteem, and spiritual aspects of daily life.
Change can be difficult. Therapy provides support as you adapt to life's countless changes and curveballs. As a clinical social worker, I have spent time working alongside teens, young adults, and adults as they work through issues varying from hospitalization to exploring substance use and its effects on daily life, behavioral issues, and family conflict. I draw extensively from Maslow's hierarchy of needs and help clients explore their immediate basic needs and safety while addressing love and belonging, self-esteem, and spiritual aspects of daily life.
(828) 622-4797 View (828) 622-4797
Photo of David Shelton, LCMHC-A, Ed S, Counselor
David Shelton
Counselor, LCMHC-A, Ed S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task, especially if you don't have a clear understanding of what to expect, or even why you are looking. Often, we find ourselves saying out loud "I really should get a therapist" almost on impulse when things feel, well, off. Then, we get a little further along and we decide "actually, I think I'm good". Other times, someone in our life has told us we should get therapy, and we have decided to finally give it a go. Together, we will begin to identify patterns, learn to interact in new ways, and improve the quality of our lives both when we feel disrupted and when we feel in control.
Seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task, especially if you don't have a clear understanding of what to expect, or even why you are looking. Often, we find ourselves saying out loud "I really should get a therapist" almost on impulse when things feel, well, off. Then, we get a little further along and we decide "actually, I think I'm good". Other times, someone in our life has told us we should get therapy, and we have decided to finally give it a go. Together, we will begin to identify patterns, learn to interact in new ways, and improve the quality of our lives both when we feel disrupted and when we feel in control.
(828) 809-4237 View (828) 809-4237
Photo of Hannah Farman, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Hannah Farman
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
I am passionate about helping women navigate major life transitions such as getting married, entering motherhood, changing careers, moving, or processing the ending of a relationship. It is easy to lose ourselves when taking on a new role and I love helping women reconnect with who they truly are and find joy again. In addition to treatment for anxiety, depression, and life transitions, I offer the unique focus of career counseling. I really enjoy helping others find true fulfillment in their vocations, as I have found that many mental health and relationship challenges often stem from an unhealthy work life.
I am passionate about helping women navigate major life transitions such as getting married, entering motherhood, changing careers, moving, or processing the ending of a relationship. It is easy to lose ourselves when taking on a new role and I love helping women reconnect with who they truly are and find joy again. In addition to treatment for anxiety, depression, and life transitions, I offer the unique focus of career counseling. I really enjoy helping others find true fulfillment in their vocations, as I have found that many mental health and relationship challenges often stem from an unhealthy work life.
(828) 827-4563 View (828) 827-4563
Photo of Dr. Ali Davis, PhD, LCMHCS, LMHC
Dr. Ali Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. I am honored to walk with individuals and families on their journey to find hope, a fresh perspective, and new paths to achieve their goals. Helping to navigate life changes is my specialty. My approach is warm and direct and I utilize a tailored approach of cognitive and dialectical behavioral interventions to assist clients struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. I am honored to walk with individuals and families on their journey to find hope, a fresh perspective, and new paths to achieve their goals. Helping to navigate life changes is my specialty. My approach is warm and direct and I utilize a tailored approach of cognitive and dialectical behavioral interventions to assist clients struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(828) 475-8653 View (828) 475-8653
Photo of Leighton E Hannah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leighton E Hannah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including divorce, childhood trauma, depression, loss, mood disorders, etc. I support curious, motivated adults who are ready to dig in and do the work of unpacking childhood trauma and/ or life’s ups and downs. I also specialize in helping women in transition with both life and relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents as they manage their challenging life stages and work to become fully confident adults. I also love to work with parents as they support their adolescent children.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including divorce, childhood trauma, depression, loss, mood disorders, etc. I support curious, motivated adults who are ready to dig in and do the work of unpacking childhood trauma and/ or life’s ups and downs. I also specialize in helping women in transition with both life and relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents as they manage their challenging life stages and work to become fully confident adults. I also love to work with parents as they support their adolescent children.
(828) 519-1658 View (828) 519-1658
Photo of Lk Kauffman Bissell, MA, LCMHC, NCC, LMHC
Lk Kauffman Bissell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
If you are reading this, I imagine you are exploring ways to find healing, growth, and change in some aspect of your life or for someone you care for deeply. The process of finding a therapist may feel challenging and overwhelming. Welcome, I am hopeful that I can provide some help and support in exploring if we will be a good match for your healing journey. The clients I work with are often experiencing anxiety, depression, self-doubt and low self-esteem, PTSD, interpersonal struggles, and relationship struggles.
If you are reading this, I imagine you are exploring ways to find healing, growth, and change in some aspect of your life or for someone you care for deeply. The process of finding a therapist may feel challenging and overwhelming. Welcome, I am hopeful that I can provide some help and support in exploring if we will be a good match for your healing journey. The clients I work with are often experiencing anxiety, depression, self-doubt and low self-esteem, PTSD, interpersonal struggles, and relationship struggles.
(828) 522-9183 View (828) 522-9183
Photo of Alex VanDyke, LCMHCA
Alex VanDyke
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
Healing isn't linear, it's a courageous journey with ups and downs. Wherever you are along that journey, whatever trials and tribulations you have faced, and wherever you aim to land, you have already made the vulnerable choice to show up for yourself by seeking support. There is immense strength in doing so. I believe that resilience is not just a trait we possess; it's something we actively uncover and cultivate in ourselves. I am dedicated to walking alongside you as you uncover the resilience that already resides within you.
Healing isn't linear, it's a courageous journey with ups and downs. Wherever you are along that journey, whatever trials and tribulations you have faced, and wherever you aim to land, you have already made the vulnerable choice to show up for yourself by seeking support. There is immense strength in doing so. I believe that resilience is not just a trait we possess; it's something we actively uncover and cultivate in ourselves. I am dedicated to walking alongside you as you uncover the resilience that already resides within you.
(828) 600-5031 View (828) 600-5031
Photo of Damaris Cortes-Figueroa - DC Wellness, LCMHC, MS/P, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DC Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MS/P, NCC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Damaris works as an outpatient/school-based counselor providing services to both children and adults in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Damaris loves to listen to people and guide them to identify and build their strengths on what they truly love. Some of the issues she currently addresses include understanding and managing anxiety, defiant behaviors, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as navigating new mental health and physical health diagnosis, grief or divorce.
Damaris works as an outpatient/school-based counselor providing services to both children and adults in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Damaris loves to listen to people and guide them to identify and build their strengths on what they truly love. Some of the issues she currently addresses include understanding and managing anxiety, defiant behaviors, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as navigating new mental health and physical health diagnosis, grief or divorce.
(828) 385-5535 View (828) 385-5535
Photo of Rebecca Branistareanu, LCASA, MS-OT/L
Rebecca Branistareanu
LCSW Associate, LCASA, MS-OT/L
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome, I am glad you are here. Seeking therapy takes courage, but it can also offer the greatest fulfillment known to humans - to truly know & trust yourSelf. My name is Rebecca, I am an IFS-informed therapist who is passionate about serving others in finding & fulfilling their heart's deepest purpose & desires. By working through my own CPTSD obstacles I experientially learned how to create a more meaningful life & would love to be alongside you in doing the same. I currently serve folks working through addiction, trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, mental illness, health issues, or other daily life stressors.
Welcome, I am glad you are here. Seeking therapy takes courage, but it can also offer the greatest fulfillment known to humans - to truly know & trust yourSelf. My name is Rebecca, I am an IFS-informed therapist who is passionate about serving others in finding & fulfilling their heart's deepest purpose & desires. By working through my own CPTSD obstacles I experientially learned how to create a more meaningful life & would love to be alongside you in doing the same. I currently serve folks working through addiction, trauma, relational issues, depression, anxiety, mental illness, health issues, or other daily life stressors.
(828) 675-7291 View (828) 675-7291
Photo of Greg Ostler, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CASUDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Greg Ostler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CASUDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The journey of discovering a true and deep understanding of oneself is a shaped by life's challenges and triumphs. With a direct focus on triggers and lived experiences, this is an opportunity to build the supportive framework needed for lasting transformation. With my commitment to fostering curiosity and wonderment, I create a neutral space where you can explore your experiences with empathy and compassion. Together, we can embark on a relational journey to address and navigate life's complexities with safety and care. Let's collaborate to cultivate personal growth and development work towards becoming the best version of you!
The journey of discovering a true and deep understanding of oneself is a shaped by life's challenges and triumphs. With a direct focus on triggers and lived experiences, this is an opportunity to build the supportive framework needed for lasting transformation. With my commitment to fostering curiosity and wonderment, I create a neutral space where you can explore your experiences with empathy and compassion. Together, we can embark on a relational journey to address and navigate life's complexities with safety and care. Let's collaborate to cultivate personal growth and development work towards becoming the best version of you!
(828) 662-3705 View (828) 662-3705
Photo of Michael James Tui- II, MSCP, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Michael James Tui- II
Counselor, MSCP, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be such a challenge especially if we find ourselves walking our path alone. On this journey, my hope is to help guide and provide skill training that will help you increase confidence, self-worth, and self-empowerment. I serve all ages and have specialized training to address disorders and challenges in ages 3 years old - 100+ My love and passion is supporting the health of our families. I passionately that by healing our families we heal the world.
Life can be such a challenge especially if we find ourselves walking our path alone. On this journey, my hope is to help guide and provide skill training that will help you increase confidence, self-worth, and self-empowerment. I serve all ages and have specialized training to address disorders and challenges in ages 3 years old - 100+ My love and passion is supporting the health of our families. I passionately that by healing our families we heal the world.
(828) 523-8936 View (828) 523-8936
Photo of Sherry A. McKisson, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherry A. McKisson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
If you're overwhelmed, anxious, or feel you've lost your way, therapy can help. You can take your power back. I help people who have experienced trauma and/or stress regain control of their lives. Extreme stress (trauma) can make it hard to cope and move past the experience. Circumstances like personal crisis, injury/pain (physical and emotional), and helplessness make it feel difficult to move forward. You've survived the traumatic event; you can heal and improve your life! I can walk with you so you're not alone.
If you're overwhelmed, anxious, or feel you've lost your way, therapy can help. You can take your power back. I help people who have experienced trauma and/or stress regain control of their lives. Extreme stress (trauma) can make it hard to cope and move past the experience. Circumstances like personal crisis, injury/pain (physical and emotional), and helplessness make it feel difficult to move forward. You've survived the traumatic event; you can heal and improve your life! I can walk with you so you're not alone.
(828) 355-4401 View (828) 355-4401
Photo of Kimberly Davis, LCMHC
Kimberly Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck, disconnected, or in despair can overshadow even a life that looks perfect on paper. If you're harboring thoughts and emotions that seem too heavy to share, I'm here to assure you: You're not alone, and you're certainly not crazy. Together, we'll navigate these challenging waters to not only address what you need at this moment but also to construct a future that currently seems out of reach. You deserve a life filled with happiness, love, and safety—and I'm committed to helping you build it.
Feeling stuck, disconnected, or in despair can overshadow even a life that looks perfect on paper. If you're harboring thoughts and emotions that seem too heavy to share, I'm here to assure you: You're not alone, and you're certainly not crazy. Together, we'll navigate these challenging waters to not only address what you need at this moment but also to construct a future that currently seems out of reach. You deserve a life filled with happiness, love, and safety—and I'm committed to helping you build it.
(828) 347-9042 View (828) 347-9042
Photo of Aubrey Baptista, MA, LCMHC, QS, ATR-BC
Aubrey Baptista
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Welcoming New Clients. Those of us with ADHD often feel like we're not enough. We have so many interests and not enough time, leaving us feeling scattered and frustrated with our performance. Or worse, completely frozen, unable to get to the things we have interests in. Oftentimes, people misunderstand our intentions but we mean well. If only you could feel more confident, get along with people better, and more calm. Being neurodiverse is cool, but it's hard too!
Welcoming New Clients. Those of us with ADHD often feel like we're not enough. We have so many interests and not enough time, leaving us feeling scattered and frustrated with our performance. Or worse, completely frozen, unable to get to the things we have interests in. Oftentimes, people misunderstand our intentions but we mean well. If only you could feel more confident, get along with people better, and more calm. Being neurodiverse is cool, but it's hard too!
(828) 360-9668 View (828) 360-9668
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28791

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 28791 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
73% Coping Skills
73% Self Esteem
72% Stress
70% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 28791 see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
29% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28791?

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.