Photo of Sarah Barkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Barkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
I am a 20 year private practice therapist specializing in women and older adolescent females. I take an active and challenging therapeutic approach; melding traditional psychological approaches, life coaching modalities, and trauma work to tap into the small and large ways significant (and seemingly small) events and historic negative beliefs about self may be holding you back. Therapy does NOT need to last for years if you have an experienced and passionate clinician who knows what works after 1000's of data points collected. I have developed techniques and approaches that work! We will move the dial on day 1!
I am a 20 year private practice therapist specializing in women and older adolescent females. I take an active and challenging therapeutic approach; melding traditional psychological approaches, life coaching modalities, and trauma work to tap into the small and large ways significant (and seemingly small) events and historic negative beliefs about self may be holding you back. Therapy does NOT need to last for years if you have an experienced and passionate clinician who knows what works after 1000's of data points collected. I have developed techniques and approaches that work! We will move the dial on day 1!
(303) 957-7221 View (303) 957-7221
Photo of Laura Sullivan, Laura Sullivan, MACP, LCMHCA, Counselor
Laura Sullivan
Counselor, Laura Sullivan, MACP, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I often support people who feel anxious, stressed, and disconnected from their own experience. Therapy is a place to be seen, known, and understood, so that you can relearn to come home to yourself. My hope is that through our work together you would come to have a living felt sense of your deep worth, as well as make meaning of your cohesive story, accepting all parts of who you have been, who you are, and who you want to be. My job as your therapist is to consistently offer non-judgmental kindness, insight and thoughtful interventions as we partner in moving you toward fuller and more satisfying participation in your own life.
I often support people who feel anxious, stressed, and disconnected from their own experience. Therapy is a place to be seen, known, and understood, so that you can relearn to come home to yourself. My hope is that through our work together you would come to have a living felt sense of your deep worth, as well as make meaning of your cohesive story, accepting all parts of who you have been, who you are, and who you want to be. My job as your therapist is to consistently offer non-judgmental kindness, insight and thoughtful interventions as we partner in moving you toward fuller and more satisfying participation in your own life.
(336) 933-6166 View (336) 933-6166
Photo of Katy Cooley, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Cooley
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
People generally seek counseling because where they are is not where they want to be. Moving from one place to the other can only happen if changes are made. I focus on creating a trusting and safe environment with an emphasis on collaboration to help ensure that the process to change, though possibly difficult and even painful, is ultimately rewarding and lasting. My focus is on treating you as an individual with unique needs and goals and I will work with you to develop strategies for change based on the information you bring to each session.
People generally seek counseling because where they are is not where they want to be. Moving from one place to the other can only happen if changes are made. I focus on creating a trusting and safe environment with an emphasis on collaboration to help ensure that the process to change, though possibly difficult and even painful, is ultimately rewarding and lasting. My focus is on treating you as an individual with unique needs and goals and I will work with you to develop strategies for change based on the information you bring to each session.
(828) 457-8207 View (828) 457-8207
Photo of Jake Philip Wilensky, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jake Philip Wilensky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I am effective working with adults who experience many different kinds of emotional health conditions. I work with people who are having relationship difficulties, issues with codependency, trouble navigating traumatic events, and looking for overall personal growth. I also have experience and enjoy working with people who are on the autism spectrum.
I am effective working with adults who experience many different kinds of emotional health conditions. I work with people who are having relationship difficulties, issues with codependency, trouble navigating traumatic events, and looking for overall personal growth. I also have experience and enjoy working with people who are on the autism spectrum.
(828) 471-4396 View (828) 471-4396
Photo of Madison Ericksen, LCMHC, Counselor
Madison Ericksen
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in acknowledging the humanness in each individual while providing a compassionate space to delve into the complicated existence of “being” in this world. I will walk alongside you as an advocate and support while you move through your journey of healing, growth and transformation. The foundation of my clinical work is person-centered, trauma-informed, and resiliency-focused. I am invested in my therapeutic relationships, and I feel immense amounts of gratitude to partner with individuals as they move through and process trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, attachment issues, self-esteem concerns, and life challenges.
I believe in acknowledging the humanness in each individual while providing a compassionate space to delve into the complicated existence of “being” in this world. I will walk alongside you as an advocate and support while you move through your journey of healing, growth and transformation. The foundation of my clinical work is person-centered, trauma-informed, and resiliency-focused. I am invested in my therapeutic relationships, and I feel immense amounts of gratitude to partner with individuals as they move through and process trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, attachment issues, self-esteem concerns, and life challenges.
(828) 295-1256 View (828) 295-1256
Photo of Kelly O’Connor, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kelly O’Connor
Counselor, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
Hi! Going to therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to create an authentic and accepting environment to help you feel seen, understood, and give you the confidence to try things differently. Vulnerability can be one of the scariest, most liberating and empowering acts, and takes courage – so I commend you for being here, wherever you are in your process.
Hi! Going to therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to create an authentic and accepting environment to help you feel seen, understood, and give you the confidence to try things differently. Vulnerability can be one of the scariest, most liberating and empowering acts, and takes courage – so I commend you for being here, wherever you are in your process.
(828) 332-5311 View (828) 332-5311
Photo of Melissa Bridges, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Bridges
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Stability can often be disrupted in life when you and your family are going through a major transition. This instability can bring about all kids of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. Regardless of the challenges you are currently facing, getting input from a professional outside perspective can hep you make sense of things, creating a clearer path back to stability. If you are looking for help right now, it means you have already begun to take proactive steps towards more peace in your life.
Stability can often be disrupted in life when you and your family are going through a major transition. This instability can bring about all kids of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. Regardless of the challenges you are currently facing, getting input from a professional outside perspective can hep you make sense of things, creating a clearer path back to stability. If you are looking for help right now, it means you have already begun to take proactive steps towards more peace in your life.
(828) 761-3733 View (828) 761-3733
Photo of Amber J Schwab - Amber St. Germain , MA MFT
Amber St. Germain
MA MFT
Verified Verified
Woodfin, NC 28804
Are you attracted to unavailable people? Are you continually struggling with your health? Does having a job you love feel impossible? Are you in an unhappy relationship? It can be heartbreaking not to have the relationship, health, or fulfilling work you want, despite your best efforts. Using Sex Therapy and Attachment Science, I can help you change your sex, relationship and money templates. Our sex, relationship and money templates are based on our experiences in life, especially in childhood, as well as inherited family stories and traumas. They inform everything we think, feel and attract and we can change them for the better.
Are you attracted to unavailable people? Are you continually struggling with your health? Does having a job you love feel impossible? Are you in an unhappy relationship? It can be heartbreaking not to have the relationship, health, or fulfilling work you want, despite your best efforts. Using Sex Therapy and Attachment Science, I can help you change your sex, relationship and money templates. Our sex, relationship and money templates are based on our experiences in life, especially in childhood, as well as inherited family stories and traumas. They inform everything we think, feel and attract and we can change them for the better.
(828) 373-1727 View (828) 373-1727
Photo of Deborah Barnett, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah Barnett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
You are creative, live life consciously, and have enjoyed success in many areas of life. You juggle your career, family, and friends. But it's not easy, is it? In fact, it's impossible when you feel stressed out and the imbalance is contributing to anxiety or depression that you may be experiencing. I'll help you find more balance and experience greater joy and harmony in your life. For couples, I will help you feel more deeply respected and honored by one another. Together, we'll reduce the conflict and tension in your relationship and bring back the fun and romance.
You are creative, live life consciously, and have enjoyed success in many areas of life. You juggle your career, family, and friends. But it's not easy, is it? In fact, it's impossible when you feel stressed out and the imbalance is contributing to anxiety or depression that you may be experiencing. I'll help you find more balance and experience greater joy and harmony in your life. For couples, I will help you feel more deeply respected and honored by one another. Together, we'll reduce the conflict and tension in your relationship and bring back the fun and romance.
(828) 649-6071 View (828) 649-6071
Photo of Wendy Romero, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Romero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad or stressed and don’t know what to do, therapy can help. Taking this first step takes courage, but reaching out to an experienced counselor will put you on the path towards creating a more meaningful and intentional life. The struggles of day to day living, as well as past trauma, can have a profound impact on fulfillment and leave you sometimes feeling incompetent and depleted. Juggling the demands of work, home, relationships and family can be exhausting. Learning to simplify, set boundaries and prioritize what is important is life-changing and sets the stage to shift from chaos to calm.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad or stressed and don’t know what to do, therapy can help. Taking this first step takes courage, but reaching out to an experienced counselor will put you on the path towards creating a more meaningful and intentional life. The struggles of day to day living, as well as past trauma, can have a profound impact on fulfillment and leave you sometimes feeling incompetent and depleted. Juggling the demands of work, home, relationships and family can be exhausting. Learning to simplify, set boundaries and prioritize what is important is life-changing and sets the stage to shift from chaos to calm.
View
Photo of Regina McNamee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina McNamee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I am a contemporary, psychodynamic/analytic oriented psychotherapist, who will work with you to move through emotional obstacles to create pathways for deeply fulfilling change in your personal and/or professional life. My approach is based on understanding the combination of your past experiences, current situation and future hopes. I am both supportive and analytic in helping you move into underlying causes of distress. I work with couples, adults and pre-teens/teens who suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, career considerations and major life transitions including fertility, parenting, sexuality, divorce, affairs, empty nest. I welcome the opportunity to discuss your situation and needs.
I am a contemporary, psychodynamic/analytic oriented psychotherapist, who will work with you to move through emotional obstacles to create pathways for deeply fulfilling change in your personal and/or professional life. My approach is based on understanding the combination of your past experiences, current situation and future hopes. I am both supportive and analytic in helping you move into underlying causes of distress. I work with couples, adults and pre-teens/teens who suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, career considerations and major life transitions including fertility, parenting, sexuality, divorce, affairs, empty nest. I welcome the opportunity to discuss your situation and needs.
(828) 372-0397 View (828) 372-0397
Photo of Tara Beardsley, MA, LCMHC
Tara Beardsley
MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
Not accepting new clients
I work best with individuals who are tired of feeling exhausted and weighed down by anxious thoughts. My clients often find themselves stuck in unhealthy cycles, struggling with the impacts of trauma, or having difficulty articulating their needs and desires or managing ADHD symptoms. They may feel lost and unsure of what they truly want, but they are ready for a change. As a guide, I focus on helping these individuals reconnect with their wise, compassionate, and loving selves. Through this process, my clients gain the clarity, confidence, and compassion they seek, fostering deeper connections both with themselves and others.
I work best with individuals who are tired of feeling exhausted and weighed down by anxious thoughts. My clients often find themselves stuck in unhealthy cycles, struggling with the impacts of trauma, or having difficulty articulating their needs and desires or managing ADHD symptoms. They may feel lost and unsure of what they truly want, but they are ready for a change. As a guide, I focus on helping these individuals reconnect with their wise, compassionate, and loving selves. Through this process, my clients gain the clarity, confidence, and compassion they seek, fostering deeper connections both with themselves and others.
(828) 332-5220 View (828) 332-5220
Photo of Michael Racine, MS, LCAS , CCS MAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Michael Racine
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS , CCS MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
There are times in life when we lose our way to our own truth and to our own sense of joy and purpose. There's a quality of presence within us all that can be deeply healing and empowering. Through this presence, we can connect with our unique sense of authenticity, creativity, and self-awareness. while stepping into life's challenges. We can find narratives that are no longer serving us and develop healthy narratives that can bring about healing and transformation. Your body and mind constitute an original and resilient Self, and we will base your therapy on its resources. You do not have to walk this path alone.
There are times in life when we lose our way to our own truth and to our own sense of joy and purpose. There's a quality of presence within us all that can be deeply healing and empowering. Through this presence, we can connect with our unique sense of authenticity, creativity, and self-awareness. while stepping into life's challenges. We can find narratives that are no longer serving us and develop healthy narratives that can bring about healing and transformation. Your body and mind constitute an original and resilient Self, and we will base your therapy on its resources. You do not have to walk this path alone.
(828) 360-8968 View (828) 360-8968
Photo of Michelle Stephan, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Michelle Stephan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
Life can feel so overwhelming when you’re carrying so much on your own. It’s easy to feel like no one truly understands, and those emotions we push aside can quietly grow until they feel impossible to handle. Before we know it, they spill over, leaving us feeling stuck, hurt, or disconnected—and sometimes those feelings show up in our relationships, making everything even harder.
Life can feel so overwhelming when you’re carrying so much on your own. It’s easy to feel like no one truly understands, and those emotions we push aside can quietly grow until they feel impossible to handle. Before we know it, they spill over, leaving us feeling stuck, hurt, or disconnected—and sometimes those feelings show up in our relationships, making everything even harder.
(828) 457-8007 View (828) 457-8007
Photo of Tori Essex, MS, LCMHCA
Tori Essex
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Feeling disconnected from yourself, wrestling with inner complexity, or longing for more authentic ways of living? You might be navigating anxiety, past traumas, life transitions, or just feeling like you've lost touch with your sense of purpose. If you're curious about your own growth, willing to explore your inner world, or craving deeper connections, you are not alone. Finding therapeutic support that's a good fit for you is a great next step. I'm here to help you slow down, reconnect with yourself, and rediscover your unique and meaningful ways of moving through the world.
Feeling disconnected from yourself, wrestling with inner complexity, or longing for more authentic ways of living? You might be navigating anxiety, past traumas, life transitions, or just feeling like you've lost touch with your sense of purpose. If you're curious about your own growth, willing to explore your inner world, or craving deeper connections, you are not alone. Finding therapeutic support that's a good fit for you is a great next step. I'm here to help you slow down, reconnect with yourself, and rediscover your unique and meaningful ways of moving through the world.
(828) 944-9621 View (828) 944-9621
Photo of Karla Harscheid, LCSWA , LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Harscheid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA , LCASA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I provide person centered care in a safe and open space for clients to explore their motives for seeking therapy. I understand and believe that you, like all humans, are multifaceted and therefore I intend to meet you where and how you are with the affirmation that 'you are the expert of your own experience'. I have a 20+ year background in teaching yoga which manifests as somatic therapeutic practices. Currently I am a Licensed Clinician Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) and registered Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCAS). Modalitites used : Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, CBT
I provide person centered care in a safe and open space for clients to explore their motives for seeking therapy. I understand and believe that you, like all humans, are multifaceted and therefore I intend to meet you where and how you are with the affirmation that 'you are the expert of your own experience'. I have a 20+ year background in teaching yoga which manifests as somatic therapeutic practices. Currently I am a Licensed Clinician Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) and registered Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCAS). Modalitites used : Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, CBT
(828) 400-5144 View (828) 400-5144
Photo of John May, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
John May
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I am currently accepting new clients. Whether you are single or partnered; I strive to help you navigate life’s most challenging times. As an affirming and accepting therapist I have experience working with folx from all kinds of backgrounds. Most of my professional experience includes working with childhood and religious trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression and personality disorders. So lets walk together along your healing journey and write that next best chapter for your life.
I am currently accepting new clients. Whether you are single or partnered; I strive to help you navigate life’s most challenging times. As an affirming and accepting therapist I have experience working with folx from all kinds of backgrounds. Most of my professional experience includes working with childhood and religious trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression and personality disorders. So lets walk together along your healing journey and write that next best chapter for your life.
(828) 373-8237 View (828) 373-8237
Photo of Linda Spielman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Spielman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
Linda completed her Masters in Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin. She has been practicing clinical social work for 25 years in a variety of clinical areas including mood disorders, trauma, self-injury, OCD and personality disorders. She specializes in Teen and Young Adult therapy.
Linda completed her Masters in Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin. She has been practicing clinical social work for 25 years in a variety of clinical areas including mood disorders, trauma, self-injury, OCD and personality disorders. She specializes in Teen and Young Adult therapy.
(828) 888-0683 View (828) 888-0683
Photo of Sheila Mary McKeon, MA, LPC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheila Mary McKeon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
I connect easily with clients to feel lighter and clearer in their minds, body, and Spirit. I work with people with stressful careers in medicine, law, finance, and small businesses. Knowing the necessity of keeping a clear head and calm body, yet have been struggling with heartbreak, anxiety, fears, loss and grief that has created overwhelming stress and expectations that limits functioning. It is a challenging balancing act with career, family, relationships, along with finding some quiet time to relax. I help you master these challenges with a very confidential, (no insurance or electronic records) safe, and caring environment.
I connect easily with clients to feel lighter and clearer in their minds, body, and Spirit. I work with people with stressful careers in medicine, law, finance, and small businesses. Knowing the necessity of keeping a clear head and calm body, yet have been struggling with heartbreak, anxiety, fears, loss and grief that has created overwhelming stress and expectations that limits functioning. It is a challenging balancing act with career, family, relationships, along with finding some quiet time to relax. I help you master these challenges with a very confidential, (no insurance or electronic records) safe, and caring environment.
(828) 536-4117 View (828) 536-4117
Photo of Tony Godwin, MA, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony Godwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
My orientation as a therapist is well suited for clients looking for deeper, clearer self-connection and awareness as well as the attuned, sensitive therapeutic relationship that supports this. My approach often includes the body's wisdom along with a kind of present moment, open and curious attention - mindfulness. Given enough safety, your awareness can relax and become less habitual, more rich and intuitive, as the session becomes a space for uncovering and revising the implicit learning and beliefs that hold you in place, including troubling patterns of thought related to past trauma, attachment wounding and addiction.
My orientation as a therapist is well suited for clients looking for deeper, clearer self-connection and awareness as well as the attuned, sensitive therapeutic relationship that supports this. My approach often includes the body's wisdom along with a kind of present moment, open and curious attention - mindfulness. Given enough safety, your awareness can relax and become less habitual, more rich and intuitive, as the session becomes a space for uncovering and revising the implicit learning and beliefs that hold you in place, including troubling patterns of thought related to past trauma, attachment wounding and addiction.
(828) 395-1374 View (828) 395-1374

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28804

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 28804 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
82% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Aetna
36% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 28804 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
27% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28804?

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.