Therapists in 29073

Photo of Patrice K Jamerson, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Patrice K Jamerson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Lexington, SC 29073
Emotions can be overwhelming. Choices aren't always ideal or black and white. Navigating changes, life transitions and family dynamics can be hard when attempting to do so alone. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I'd like to be an added support as you develop healthy strategies and coping skills to address obstacles, conflict and dysfunction.
Emotions can be overwhelming. Choices aren't always ideal or black and white. Navigating changes, life transitions and family dynamics can be hard when attempting to do so alone. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I'd like to be an added support as you develop healthy strategies and coping skills to address obstacles, conflict and dysfunction.
(929) 345-3189 View (929) 345-3189
Photo of Amanda Jumper Bannister, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT, LMFT-A
Amanda Jumper Bannister
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT, LMFT-A
Lexington, SC 29073
After experiencing a life-altering trauma that reshaped my sense of safety, security, and hope, I found restoration—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—through the care of a wise and compassionate therapist. That journey not only brought healing but helped clarify my calling: to walk with others toward wholeness and renewed purpose. With over 20 years of experience in youth ministry, I returned to school, graduated in May '24, and in December '24 received my associate license in Marriage and Family Therapy. I offer a nurturing and faith-affirming space for children, teens, couples, families, and individuals seeking restoration.
After experiencing a life-altering trauma that reshaped my sense of safety, security, and hope, I found restoration—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—through the care of a wise and compassionate therapist. That journey not only brought healing but helped clarify my calling: to walk with others toward wholeness and renewed purpose. With over 20 years of experience in youth ministry, I returned to school, graduated in May '24, and in December '24 received my associate license in Marriage and Family Therapy. I offer a nurturing and faith-affirming space for children, teens, couples, families, and individuals seeking restoration.
(803) 919-2352 View (803) 919-2352
Photo of Rex Dula, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS/C
Rex Dula
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS/C
5 Endorsed
Lexington, SC 29073
Working with a diverse client population is what keeps me going and motivated each day. I enjoy getting to know the lives of each of my clients and learning what makes them tick. Each of us have so much to offer the world as well as each other and we sometimes lose sight of that. Whether you are struggling with issues around gender identity, your past traumas and their current effects, or looking to improve your family or intimate relationships, I would love to work with you as you grow and learn ways to improve your life on your terms.
Working with a diverse client population is what keeps me going and motivated each day. I enjoy getting to know the lives of each of my clients and learning what makes them tick. Each of us have so much to offer the world as well as each other and we sometimes lose sight of that. Whether you are struggling with issues around gender identity, your past traumas and their current effects, or looking to improve your family or intimate relationships, I would love to work with you as you grow and learn ways to improve your life on your terms.
(843) 874-8382 View (843) 874-8382
Photo of Louise S Duval, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, CAC
Louise S Duval
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, CAC
Lexington, SC 29073
Life is difficult, but it does not have to be hopeless. Living in a world in the midst of broken relationships, feelings of depression, stressful jobs and family situations, alcohol, drugs, and loss. It can be easy to loose hope and your sense of purpose. I don't believe there is a certain type of counseling that works for everyone. I will meet with you, find out where you are, where you want to be, and tailor my counseling to meet your individual needs. During my years of counseling I have learned many different techniques and how to use them with different types of people.
Life is difficult, but it does not have to be hopeless. Living in a world in the midst of broken relationships, feelings of depression, stressful jobs and family situations, alcohol, drugs, and loss. It can be easy to loose hope and your sense of purpose. I don't believe there is a certain type of counseling that works for everyone. I will meet with you, find out where you are, where you want to be, and tailor my counseling to meet your individual needs. During my years of counseling I have learned many different techniques and how to use them with different types of people.
(803) 373-8032 x6 View (803) 373-8032 x6
Photo of Thomasena Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADC
Thomasena Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADC
Lexington, SC 29073
Are you struggling with mental health challenges or addiction? Are you looking for a safe and welcoming space to discuss your concerns without judgment? My name is Thomasena Kelly, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. With several years of experience, I provide individual, family, and group therapy to help people navigate a variety of mental health and addiction challenges. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment, whether virtual or in-person, to ensure you are comfortable. I am eager to learn more about you and your journey.
Are you struggling with mental health challenges or addiction? Are you looking for a safe and welcoming space to discuss your concerns without judgment? My name is Thomasena Kelly, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. With several years of experience, I provide individual, family, and group therapy to help people navigate a variety of mental health and addiction challenges. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment, whether virtual or in-person, to ensure you are comfortable. I am eager to learn more about you and your journey.
(843) 920-4167 View (843) 920-4167
Photo of Sonyetta Young, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sonyetta Young
Licensed Professional Counselor
Lexington, SC 29073
You take you where ever you go; it may be beneficial to know exactly who is showing up! No one wakes up with plans to have a bum day, make bad decisions or spiral out of control, but sometimes- life happens- and we need a nudge, or two- to get our bearings straight.
You take you where ever you go; it may be beneficial to know exactly who is showing up! No one wakes up with plans to have a bum day, make bad decisions or spiral out of control, but sometimes- life happens- and we need a nudge, or two- to get our bearings straight.
(843) 493-4117 View (843) 493-4117
Photo of Jason Walker - Walker Behavioral Healthcare, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC
Walker Behavioral Healthcare, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC
Lexington, SC 29073
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
(980) 351-7572 View (980) 351-7572
Photo of Ayanna McNeil, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Ayanna McNeil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, or life stressors? Do you find yourself constantly thinking negative thoughts? Allow me to assist by helping you step beyond your current limitations and achieve your therapeutic goals. Ayanna received her Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Claflin University and earned her Masters of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. Ayanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina and certified as a National Certified Counselor by NBCC. Ayanna is dedicated to serve all populations.
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, or life stressors? Do you find yourself constantly thinking negative thoughts? Allow me to assist by helping you step beyond your current limitations and achieve your therapeutic goals. Ayanna received her Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Claflin University and earned her Masters of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. Ayanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina and certified as a National Certified Counselor by NBCC. Ayanna is dedicated to serve all populations.
(803) 620-6069 View (803) 620-6069
Photo of Stephanie Grover, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Stephanie Grover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello beautiful people! My main focus as a Gender and Sex therapist is to work alongside you and to meet you where you're at, finding peace, identifying resilience and feeling empowered while making progress, whatever that means for you. My approach is warm, interactive, and client-centered. I view the work as a collaborative process, continually checking in and creating a safe space as well as a place to look at holistic aspects of identity. I value transparency and authenticity. We may jive if you are self-reflective, are ready to work, are pleasure-positive, vaxxed, and believe Black Lives Matter.
Hello beautiful people! My main focus as a Gender and Sex therapist is to work alongside you and to meet you where you're at, finding peace, identifying resilience and feeling empowered while making progress, whatever that means for you. My approach is warm, interactive, and client-centered. I view the work as a collaborative process, continually checking in and creating a safe space as well as a place to look at holistic aspects of identity. I value transparency and authenticity. We may jive if you are self-reflective, are ready to work, are pleasure-positive, vaxxed, and believe Black Lives Matter.
(208) 266-2901 View (208) 266-2901
Photo of Lina Rose Brucks, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, CST
Lina Rose Brucks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, CST
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Lina, a Hispanic mom from Texas to 3 college students & a marriage veteran of over 21 yrs. I specialize in sex and relationship therapy and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate in North and South Carolina, a Clinical Sexologist, and a Certified Sex Therapist. I help individuals and couples understand and address the deeper patterns that shape how they experience relationships, intimacy, and sexuality.
Hello! My name is Lina, a Hispanic mom from Texas to 3 college students & a marriage veteran of over 21 yrs. I specialize in sex and relationship therapy and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate in North and South Carolina, a Clinical Sexologist, and a Certified Sex Therapist. I help individuals and couples understand and address the deeper patterns that shape how they experience relationships, intimacy, and sexuality.
(803) 805-8328 View (803) 805-8328
Photo of Ivey G Drawdy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ivey G Drawdy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Is your child and/or adolescent struggling to adapt to life's changes? Are they exhibiting behavioral, emotional, or cognitive problems that are beyond that of what is typically seen for their age? Being a parent is the hardest, yet most rewarding part of life. However, a parent's job becomes increasingly more difficult and complicated when your child is struggling to express feelings, explore relationships, and build self-esteem. It affects not only the child, but the family as a unit.
Is your child and/or adolescent struggling to adapt to life's changes? Are they exhibiting behavioral, emotional, or cognitive problems that are beyond that of what is typically seen for their age? Being a parent is the hardest, yet most rewarding part of life. However, a parent's job becomes increasingly more difficult and complicated when your child is struggling to express feelings, explore relationships, and build self-esteem. It affects not only the child, but the family as a unit.
(888) 537-2453 View (888) 537-2453
Photo of Alison Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alison Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can be hard, and sometimes we just need someone who is willing to sit in the trenches and offer hope in those moments. That is my desire with those that I counsel. I want to utilize my skillset and training to help you work through life's pains and frustrations.
Life can be hard, and sometimes we just need someone who is willing to sit in the trenches and offer hope in those moments. That is my desire with those that I counsel. I want to utilize my skillset and training to help you work through life's pains and frustrations.
(803) 941-5975 View (803) 941-5975
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD,, MPhil, LPCS
Dr. Jennifer Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD,, MPhil, LPCS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In addition to the general forms of therapy I offer on this site, I also use many techniques considered "out of the box." I believe you deserve to benefit from any technique or intervention I can provide or teach you to improve your function and quality of life, and to become the best version of yourself. even if it is not widely used by many therapists. Through my wide range of experiences in the counseling profession, working with veterans, first responders, and their families, I have identified which strategies are most effective in these situations, as researched for my doctorate in Crisis Response Leadership.
In addition to the general forms of therapy I offer on this site, I also use many techniques considered "out of the box." I believe you deserve to benefit from any technique or intervention I can provide or teach you to improve your function and quality of life, and to become the best version of yourself. even if it is not widely used by many therapists. Through my wide range of experiences in the counseling profession, working with veterans, first responders, and their families, I have identified which strategies are most effective in these situations, as researched for my doctorate in Crisis Response Leadership.
(803) 889-5703 View (803) 889-5703
Photo of Kendall Epting, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Kendall Epting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
Whether you are navigating the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy or new motherhood, struggling in your relationships, or carrying the weight of past trauma, I'm here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. I'm a licensed therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health, PTSD, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My practice is rooted in compassion, authenticity, and evidence-based care. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected—or you’ve lost pieces of yourself along the way. Together, we can work to reclaim your voice, rebuild trust in yourself, and create a space for healing and peace.
Whether you are navigating the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy or new motherhood, struggling in your relationships, or carrying the weight of past trauma, I'm here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. I'm a licensed therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health, PTSD, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My practice is rooted in compassion, authenticity, and evidence-based care. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected—or you’ve lost pieces of yourself along the way. Together, we can work to reclaim your voice, rebuild trust in yourself, and create a space for healing and peace.
(803) 721-4662 View (803) 721-4662
Photo of Linnette Mullin, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Linnette Mullin
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Serves Area
Linnette puts the client's needs first. As a LPC-A (Licensed Professional Counselor Associate) under the supervision of Paul Bishop, MA, LPC, LPC/S, she works at Bridge of Hope Counseling Center - Gaston. She counsels individual adults & groups, as well as advocates for women - especially those who have experienced relationship trauma. Her mission is to walk with clients who desire to move beyond their circumstances & learn how to live with purpose & meaning. Linnette strives to get to the heart of the client's issues & help them set goals for healing & growth, providing them with essential tools to aid the healing & growth process.
Linnette puts the client's needs first. As a LPC-A (Licensed Professional Counselor Associate) under the supervision of Paul Bishop, MA, LPC, LPC/S, she works at Bridge of Hope Counseling Center - Gaston. She counsels individual adults & groups, as well as advocates for women - especially those who have experienced relationship trauma. Her mission is to walk with clients who desire to move beyond their circumstances & learn how to live with purpose & meaning. Linnette strives to get to the heart of the client's issues & help them set goals for healing & growth, providing them with essential tools to aid the healing & growth process.
(803) 953-5760 View (803) 953-5760
Photo of Heather L. Coleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Heather L. Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm so glad you're here. Maybe you're high-functioning on the outside but barely holding it together on the inside. Perhaps you’ve been carrying a devastating secret for years, all the while wondering why life has been so hard. Or maybe, after a lifetime of struggle, you wonder if you’re just broken. When you feel this heavy for this long, it starts to show: exploding at small offenses, drinking more, sleeping less, or just giving up hope that things will ever change. Whatever is happening, here is the truth: You are not broken. There is hope. You can find relief.
I'm so glad you're here. Maybe you're high-functioning on the outside but barely holding it together on the inside. Perhaps you’ve been carrying a devastating secret for years, all the while wondering why life has been so hard. Or maybe, after a lifetime of struggle, you wonder if you’re just broken. When you feel this heavy for this long, it starts to show: exploding at small offenses, drinking more, sleeping less, or just giving up hope that things will ever change. Whatever is happening, here is the truth: You are not broken. There is hope. You can find relief.
(803) 676-7193 View (803) 676-7193
Photo of Daniel Long, Licensed Professional Counselor, Daniel , LPC
Daniel Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, Daniel , LPC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you going through a difficult time or major life transition? You do not have to face it alone. At Life Journey Counseling Services, our goal is to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and renewed hope. Whether you are navigating personal challenges, family struggles, or emotional pain, support is available.
Are you going through a difficult time or major life transition? You do not have to face it alone. At Life Journey Counseling Services, our goal is to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and renewed hope. Whether you are navigating personal challenges, family struggles, or emotional pain, support is available.
(803) 882-2791 View (803) 882-2791
Photo of Olivia Sitton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Olivia Sitton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
My ideal clients are children (10+), adolescents, young adults, and adults feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in patterns of anxiety, overthinking, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, or life transitions. Many come to therapy when what they’ve been doing is no longer working and they’re ready for change. In our work, I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space to build insight, develop coping skills, and create meaningful change. Together, we work toward feeling more grounded, empowered, and in control of your life.
My ideal clients are children (10+), adolescents, young adults, and adults feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in patterns of anxiety, overthinking, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, or life transitions. Many come to therapy when what they’ve been doing is no longer working and they’re ready for change. In our work, I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space to build insight, develop coping skills, and create meaningful change. Together, we work toward feeling more grounded, empowered, and in control of your life.
(803) 599-2463 View (803) 599-2463
Photo of William Reid Wood, Counselor, MA, LPC, SRT
William Reid Wood
Counselor, MA, LPC, SRT
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel consumed by anxiety and worry? Are intrusive thoughts, images, or urges taking control? Does your inner critic leave you trapped in self-doubt? Is your world unraveling under unwanted sexual behavior leading to feelings of shame and despair? Has fear kept you from living with confidence and purpose? Facing negative thought patterns and compulsions can be scary. However! Now is your opportunity to begin that healing process. I am a therapist who believes in an evidence-based approach and my goal is to help you discover your true potential. You do have the ability to understand long-standing negative patterns in your life.
Do you feel consumed by anxiety and worry? Are intrusive thoughts, images, or urges taking control? Does your inner critic leave you trapped in self-doubt? Is your world unraveling under unwanted sexual behavior leading to feelings of shame and despair? Has fear kept you from living with confidence and purpose? Facing negative thought patterns and compulsions can be scary. However! Now is your opportunity to begin that healing process. I am a therapist who believes in an evidence-based approach and my goal is to help you discover your true potential. You do have the ability to understand long-standing negative patterns in your life.
(803) 282-9029 View (803) 282-9029
Photo of Dr. Paul Wade, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MS, LPC
Dr. Paul Wade
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you a high achieving professional with anxiety, someone rebuilding after divorce, struggling with emotional regulation, dealing with trauma recovery, couples with attachment wounds? Depression? Anxiety? Anger Management? Narcissistic partner? I offer my expertise to those looking to change their life circumstances, improve relationships, or confront difficult decisions. I have proven skills, training, and education to help you discover what holds you back. I offer a therapeutic approach of engaging clients to help face those factors inhibiting growth and pleasure in everyday activities. Find the courage ask for help.
Are you a high achieving professional with anxiety, someone rebuilding after divorce, struggling with emotional regulation, dealing with trauma recovery, couples with attachment wounds? Depression? Anxiety? Anger Management? Narcissistic partner? I offer my expertise to those looking to change their life circumstances, improve relationships, or confront difficult decisions. I have proven skills, training, and education to help you discover what holds you back. I offer a therapeutic approach of engaging clients to help face those factors inhibiting growth and pleasure in everyday activities. Find the courage ask for help.
(803) 602-6134 View (803) 602-6134

See more therapy options for 29073

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 29073

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 29073 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
82% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
73% Stress
64% Grief
64% Self Esteem
61% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
74% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 29073 see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 29073?

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.