Photo of Erika Pomerantz, LPC, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Pomerantz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I commonly work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and family or relationship related difficulties. My experience is with adolescents and adults, also focusing on family dynamics as a whole. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a treatment specifically for designed to alleviate distressing memories that may be related to trauma.
I commonly work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and family or relationship related difficulties. My experience is with adolescents and adults, also focusing on family dynamics as a whole. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a treatment specifically for designed to alleviate distressing memories that may be related to trauma.
(843) 396-8747 View (843) 396-8747
Photo of Amy Wendelowski, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Wendelowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to the opportunity for a life transformation! As an LPC, I offer a creative and integrative approach to healing the mind-body and soul. I work with all populations dealing with a vast array of life difficulties including life adjustments, identity issues, addictions, relationship issues and more. If you need some help no matter how big or how small the issue issue is, I look forward to embarking on this journey with you and helping you transform your life.
Welcome to the opportunity for a life transformation! As an LPC, I offer a creative and integrative approach to healing the mind-body and soul. I work with all populations dealing with a vast array of life difficulties including life adjustments, identity issues, addictions, relationship issues and more. If you need some help no matter how big or how small the issue issue is, I look forward to embarking on this journey with you and helping you transform your life.
(843) 428-5795 View (843) 428-5795
Photo of Anna Dickinson - Tap In Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tap In Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Do you feel like your thoughts are everywhere all at once. Do you feel like if something was just slightly different, you would be able to excel at home, at work, and in your community? Do you feel like you’re constantly trying to get something right and yet still failing all at the same time? I have been in those places many times in my life, and I’m here to help you take control of those thoughts and emotions and learn to thrive.
Do you feel like your thoughts are everywhere all at once. Do you feel like if something was just slightly different, you would be able to excel at home, at work, and in your community? Do you feel like you’re constantly trying to get something right and yet still failing all at the same time? I have been in those places many times in my life, and I’m here to help you take control of those thoughts and emotions and learn to thrive.
(843) 701-9880 View (843) 701-9880
Photo of Kristine J Kupcha, PhD, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristine J Kupcha
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My passion is to help individuals live the quality life they want by using a person centered approach. I include looking at the whole person when considering the best approach to treatment. Patterns of behaviors, diet, physical activity and strengths are part of a holistic approach to treatment. I work with clients to develop a plan to improve quality of life and make the changes they want to make. A healthy mind is a key element to a healthy life.
My passion is to help individuals live the quality life they want by using a person centered approach. I include looking at the whole person when considering the best approach to treatment. Patterns of behaviors, diet, physical activity and strengths are part of a holistic approach to treatment. I work with clients to develop a plan to improve quality of life and make the changes they want to make. A healthy mind is a key element to a healthy life.
(843) 905-3154 View (843) 905-3154
Photo of Michele Gallagher - Gallagher Counseling and Consultation LLC, MSW, LISW-CP, S, NC-LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gallagher Counseling and Consultation LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, S, NC-LCSW
Verified Verified
Do you feel like your mind never turns off and the more you think the less clear things get? Or do you have constant fear and anxiety that prevent you from living life to your fullest? Does life always seem so stressful? This is not what you envisioned for yourself and you are worth living a happy fulfilled life. Once you gain awareness and clarity, the clutter of fear and sadness can clear and steps can be taken to change course.
Do you feel like your mind never turns off and the more you think the less clear things get? Or do you have constant fear and anxiety that prevent you from living life to your fullest? Does life always seem so stressful? This is not what you envisioned for yourself and you are worth living a happy fulfilled life. Once you gain awareness and clarity, the clutter of fear and sadness can clear and steps can be taken to change course.
(910) 520-8358 View (910) 520-8358
Photo of Brandi VonBartheld, MA, NCC, LPCA, CTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi VonBartheld
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As a child, adolescent and adult counselor, I am passionate about helping others through life's challenges. My goal is to provide a safe space to support growth, transparency, and change. I work with individuals, families and couples to facilitate goals, provide coping skills, and improve overall understanding of how to utilize these in everyday life, school, and home.
As a child, adolescent and adult counselor, I am passionate about helping others through life's challenges. My goal is to provide a safe space to support growth, transparency, and change. I work with individuals, families and couples to facilitate goals, provide coping skills, and improve overall understanding of how to utilize these in everyday life, school, and home.
(843) 666-8107 View (843) 666-8107
Photo of Susan McLean - Coastal Counseling Solutions, Susan McLean, MA, LPC, LPCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Coastal Counseling Solutions, Susan McLean
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I can help you to understand how your thoughts, feelings, behavior are interconnected, and that negative thoughts and feelings can trap you in a vicious cycle. CBT aims to help you deal with overwhelming problems in a more positive way by breaking them down into smaller parts. You're shown how to change these negative patterns to improve the way you feel. Unlike some other talking treatments, CBT deals with your current problems, rather than focusing on issues from your past. The use of humor in CBT is encouraged. We look for practical ways to improve your daily state of mind.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I can help you to understand how your thoughts, feelings, behavior are interconnected, and that negative thoughts and feelings can trap you in a vicious cycle. CBT aims to help you deal with overwhelming problems in a more positive way by breaking them down into smaller parts. You're shown how to change these negative patterns to improve the way you feel. Unlike some other talking treatments, CBT deals with your current problems, rather than focusing on issues from your past. The use of humor in CBT is encouraged. We look for practical ways to improve your daily state of mind.
(843) 279-8457 View (843) 279-8457
Photo of Jennifer French, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer French
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you, your relationship, or your adolescent grappling with challenges that hinder staying present, motivated, or connected? Are you facing feelings of loneliness and grappling with issues related to self-worth, depression, ADHD, transgenerational trauma, anxiety, or effective communication? As a specialist, my focus is on providing support to couples, individuals,  young adults, adults, and parents as they navigate life's complexities, including infidelity, ruptures in relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting/co-parenting, and difficulties related to attachment and communication.
Are you, your relationship, or your adolescent grappling with challenges that hinder staying present, motivated, or connected? Are you facing feelings of loneliness and grappling with issues related to self-worth, depression, ADHD, transgenerational trauma, anxiety, or effective communication? As a specialist, my focus is on providing support to couples, individuals,  young adults, adults, and parents as they navigate life's complexities, including infidelity, ruptures in relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting/co-parenting, and difficulties related to attachment and communication.
(843) 310-6726 View (843) 310-6726
Photo of Christina Barnard, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Barnard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
You’re smart, capable, and have so much potential, but something’s holding you back. It might be perfectionism, procrastination, unhealthy relationships, or challenging past experiences that still weigh on you. You might be wondering, “Why does it feel like I’m spinning my wheels, even though I’m putting in the effort?” You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to be perfect or to measure your progress against impossible standards.
You’re smart, capable, and have so much potential, but something’s holding you back. It might be perfectionism, procrastination, unhealthy relationships, or challenging past experiences that still weigh on you. You might be wondering, “Why does it feel like I’m spinning my wheels, even though I’m putting in the effort?” You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to be perfect or to measure your progress against impossible standards.
(843) 612-5040 View (843) 612-5040
Photo of Joneen Adams, MS
Joneen Adams
Licensed Psycho-Educational Specialist, MS
Verified Verified
Myrtle Beach, SC 29575
Not accepting new clients
Hello Psychology Today Clientele! I would like to thank you very much for the incredible amount of positive feedback and requests for evaluations and counseling I have received. However, due to unforseen medical issues, I had to pause services and have been unable to reply to referrals. My circumstances are happily changing and I will be able to accept new clients in February, 2025. I would love to help each and every one of you that I can and I look forward to doing so in the near future.
Hello Psychology Today Clientele! I would like to thank you very much for the incredible amount of positive feedback and requests for evaluations and counseling I have received. However, due to unforseen medical issues, I had to pause services and have been unable to reply to referrals. My circumstances are happily changing and I will be able to accept new clients in February, 2025. I would love to help each and every one of you that I can and I look forward to doing so in the near future.
(843) 748-3557 View (843) 748-3557
Photo of Shannon Freeman, LISW CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW CP
Verified Verified
Myrtle Beach, SC 29575
Are you an adult struggling to get through everyday life, resulting in poor performance at work/school, feeling overwhelmed, struggling with relationships with friends and family, feeling frustrated, and alone? Do you procrastinate or forget to do things? Have others called you lazy or assumed that you are unreliable or incapable? Has your self-esteem been affected by that constant feeling of inadequacy? Have you chosen unhealthy coping methods? Ready for life to get better? If so, you are in the correct place! I know life can be difficult. We've all struggled. I help people every day. I would love to help you too.
Are you an adult struggling to get through everyday life, resulting in poor performance at work/school, feeling overwhelmed, struggling with relationships with friends and family, feeling frustrated, and alone? Do you procrastinate or forget to do things? Have others called you lazy or assumed that you are unreliable or incapable? Has your self-esteem been affected by that constant feeling of inadequacy? Have you chosen unhealthy coping methods? Ready for life to get better? If so, you are in the correct place! I know life can be difficult. We've all struggled. I help people every day. I would love to help you too.
(843) 604-1214 View (843) 604-1214
Photo of Nicole M Barakat, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole M Barakat
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children with learning, behavioral and emotional needs and their parents. If you are struggling with your child's behavior, feel that your family and friends do not understand your child or are judging your parenting, and have "tried everything," I would like to offer a safe place for you and your child to talk and get support. If you have concerns with your child's learning process and suspect that your child may have a learning disability, ADHD, or Autism, a psychological evaluation can help to identify strengths and weaknesses, factors that impede learning, and may result in a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
I work with children with learning, behavioral and emotional needs and their parents. If you are struggling with your child's behavior, feel that your family and friends do not understand your child or are judging your parenting, and have "tried everything," I would like to offer a safe place for you and your child to talk and get support. If you have concerns with your child's learning process and suspect that your child may have a learning disability, ADHD, or Autism, a psychological evaluation can help to identify strengths and weaknesses, factors that impede learning, and may result in a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
(843) 865-6912 View (843) 865-6912
Photo of Jennie M Cassidy, PhD, Psychologist
Jennie M Cassidy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I provide compassionate psychological services to adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, and relationships. Sometimes life is really hard and we get stuck in the way we think, feel, and act; or we struggle to cope with what life has thrown at us. My approach is to help you feel heard and partner with you to develop new ways to see yourself and the world. Together we work to understand you and your life, and then identify ways to help you become a happier and healthier you. If you don’t quite understand what is going wrong, I utilize psychological testing to help you figure it out.
I provide compassionate psychological services to adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, and relationships. Sometimes life is really hard and we get stuck in the way we think, feel, and act; or we struggle to cope with what life has thrown at us. My approach is to help you feel heard and partner with you to develop new ways to see yourself and the world. Together we work to understand you and your life, and then identify ways to help you become a happier and healthier you. If you don’t quite understand what is going wrong, I utilize psychological testing to help you figure it out.
(843) 268-4533 View (843) 268-4533
Photo of Sandra Quast, MA, LPC, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Quast
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My passion is helping individuals, couples and teens to live their best, most fulfilling life and to have and enjoy healthy relationships. Life is filled with road blocks and sometimes it can be difficult to focus on what truly matters. Therapy is a pause on that journey,... a time to identify obstacles, develop new empowering goals and learn new skills to get you back on track. I offer a comfortable, non-judgemental environment to discuss issues that are causing pain in your life to assist you on your path towards greater happiness, peace and purpose.
My passion is helping individuals, couples and teens to live their best, most fulfilling life and to have and enjoy healthy relationships. Life is filled with road blocks and sometimes it can be difficult to focus on what truly matters. Therapy is a pause on that journey,... a time to identify obstacles, develop new empowering goals and learn new skills to get you back on track. I offer a comfortable, non-judgemental environment to discuss issues that are causing pain in your life to assist you on your path towards greater happiness, peace and purpose.
(843) 494-5109 View (843) 494-5109
Photo of Veronica Arteaga - Estrella Mountain Life Coaching, LLC, MS, CCTP
Estrella Mountain Life Coaching, LLC
MS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Same week virtual appts available. I offer rates as low as $60/session so you can get the help you need NOW. I am a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran. I was a licensed counselor for over 12yrs and finally started my own coaching practice 8 years ago to get you the help you need today, not cut you off because of policies and insurance restrictions. I know how difficult it is to ask for help. I'll be with you every step of your journey to happiness. Morning, evening and Sunday appointments available. Video and phone call sessions available so you don't even have to leave your safe space. I look forward to working with you. Hablo Espanol :)
Same week virtual appts available. I offer rates as low as $60/session so you can get the help you need NOW. I am a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran. I was a licensed counselor for over 12yrs and finally started my own coaching practice 8 years ago to get you the help you need today, not cut you off because of policies and insurance restrictions. I know how difficult it is to ask for help. I'll be with you every step of your journey to happiness. Morning, evening and Sunday appointments available. Video and phone call sessions available so you don't even have to leave your safe space. I look forward to working with you. Hablo Espanol :)
(480) 526-5247 View (480) 526-5247
Photo of Jose A Morell, MEd, CAGS, LMHC, LPC, LADC I, Counselor
Jose A Morell
Counselor, MEd, CAGS, LMHC, LPC, LADC I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Therapy is an act of strength, hope, and resiliency. Even the happiest and most well-adjusted people may encounter problems resulting from unexpected life challenges and demands. My goal is to work in collaboration and partnership with my clients to bring about positive changes, growth, and healing from past painful events. I have 15 years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist. I received both my Master's degree and Continued Advanced Graduate Study Degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College. I am also certified as a cognitive behavioral therapist from Boston University School of Social Work.
Therapy is an act of strength, hope, and resiliency. Even the happiest and most well-adjusted people may encounter problems resulting from unexpected life challenges and demands. My goal is to work in collaboration and partnership with my clients to bring about positive changes, growth, and healing from past painful events. I have 15 years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist. I received both my Master's degree and Continued Advanced Graduate Study Degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College. I am also certified as a cognitive behavioral therapist from Boston University School of Social Work.
(781) 277-3300 View (781) 277-3300
Photo of Wendy Gale Talbert, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Gale Talbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We all need to feel understood and accepted for our own uniqueness and individual ways of learning, doing and being our "personal best". We need courage to find ways to try again when things don't go as planned despite our efforts. Counseling provides a safe haven for the release and expression of our thoughts and feelings without judgement .
We all need to feel understood and accepted for our own uniqueness and individual ways of learning, doing and being our "personal best". We need courage to find ways to try again when things don't go as planned despite our efforts. Counseling provides a safe haven for the release and expression of our thoughts and feelings without judgement .
(843) 941-5324 View (843) 941-5324
Photo of Kim Saliba - Dr Kim Saliba, PhD (Clinical Psychologist), PhD, Psychologist
Dr Kim Saliba, PhD (Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Kim places a strong emphasis on an empathetic approach providing a full range of comprehensive services for: Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Working with high risk population (Eating disorder, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, etc.) to mental health struggles (anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc.), to parent counselling and so much more. Dr. Kim provides evidence based therapy techniques and creates a safe environment to foster personal growth and supports clients in making deep and lasting changes. Dr. Kim's website also provides lots of helpful information. Website: www.drkimsaliba.com
Dr. Kim places a strong emphasis on an empathetic approach providing a full range of comprehensive services for: Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Working with high risk population (Eating disorder, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, etc.) to mental health struggles (anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc.), to parent counselling and so much more. Dr. Kim provides evidence based therapy techniques and creates a safe environment to foster personal growth and supports clients in making deep and lasting changes. Dr. Kim's website also provides lots of helpful information. Website: www.drkimsaliba.com
(843) 547-9074 View (843) 547-9074
Photo of Candy G Woods, MA, LPC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candy G Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
I Specialize in Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive disorders. I treat Middle School age to Adults that are dealing with Worries/Fears, Perfectionism, Social Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, Panic, Stress, Trauma, Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling) and Skin Picking Disorders as well as acute Eating Disorders. I have worked with many others in regards to Couples problems, Grief, and Anger. Helping people deal with everyday stressors, finding forgiveness and contentment in their life. If you are looking for a faith based counselor, I will gladly utilize a Christian based approach as well.
I Specialize in Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive disorders. I treat Middle School age to Adults that are dealing with Worries/Fears, Perfectionism, Social Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, Panic, Stress, Trauma, Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling) and Skin Picking Disorders as well as acute Eating Disorders. I have worked with many others in regards to Couples problems, Grief, and Anger. Helping people deal with everyday stressors, finding forgiveness and contentment in their life. If you are looking for a faith based counselor, I will gladly utilize a Christian based approach as well.
(843) 473-8705 View (843) 473-8705
Photo of Jennifer Joann McGonigal, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Joann McGonigal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sometimes life unfolds challenges that we cannot handle alone. Unhealthy thoughts and feelings can surface and we can feel unable to cope. This is where my expertise can help. I truly have a love for helping others discover their strengths and find their potential. For over fifteen years, I've enjoyed my work helping people successfully let go of painful pasts. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of South Carolina. Over the years, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome a wide variety of challenges.
Sometimes life unfolds challenges that we cannot handle alone. Unhealthy thoughts and feelings can surface and we can feel unable to cope. This is where my expertise can help. I truly have a love for helping others discover their strengths and find their potential. For over fifteen years, I've enjoyed my work helping people successfully let go of painful pasts. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of South Carolina. Over the years, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome a wide variety of challenges.
(843) 941-5258 View (843) 941-5258
1

See more therapy options for 29575

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 29575

40+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 29575 who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
96% Depression
83% Trauma and PTSD
74% Relationship Issues
68% Life Transitions
66% Stress
60% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 29575 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
12% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 29575?

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.