Therapists in 29672

Photo of Nan W Cooley, Psychologist, PsyD
Nan W Cooley
Psychologist, PsyD
Seneca, SC 29672
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about children, teens, and parents. I chose to specialize in Child Clinical Psychology because I find children and adolescents to be fun to work with and incredibly strong and inspiring. I particularly enjoy working with those with anxiety and mood difficulties, and have extensive experience working with those with a history of traumatic experiences including abuse. Psychologists are extensively trained in both diagnostics - identifying disorders - and therapy, as well as how to use one to guide the other. I gather information from all areas of child's life to understand the child as a whole person.
I am passionate about children, teens, and parents. I chose to specialize in Child Clinical Psychology because I find children and adolescents to be fun to work with and incredibly strong and inspiring. I particularly enjoy working with those with anxiety and mood difficulties, and have extensive experience working with those with a history of traumatic experiences including abuse. Psychologists are extensively trained in both diagnostics - identifying disorders - and therapy, as well as how to use one to guide the other. I gather information from all areas of child's life to understand the child as a whole person.
(864) 778-7883 View (864) 778-7883
Photo of Susan McCarty McCormick, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Susan McCarty McCormick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Seneca, SC 29672
After the tragic loss of my husband, I found myself on a deeply personal journey of healing that eventually led me to become a therapist. This experience gave me a profound understanding of grief, anxiety, and depression, fueling my passion to help others overcome their own struggles. As a former SVP of Sales, I also understand the unique demands that come with high-level executive roles. I bring firsthand experience of balancing these responsibilities with personal well-being. This insight, combined with my therapeutic expertise, allows me to help clients manage stress and burnout while fostering personal and professional growth.
After the tragic loss of my husband, I found myself on a deeply personal journey of healing that eventually led me to become a therapist. This experience gave me a profound understanding of grief, anxiety, and depression, fueling my passion to help others overcome their own struggles. As a former SVP of Sales, I also understand the unique demands that come with high-level executive roles. I bring firsthand experience of balancing these responsibilities with personal well-being. This insight, combined with my therapeutic expertise, allows me to help clients manage stress and burnout while fostering personal and professional growth.
(703) 350-4999 View (703) 350-4999
Photo of Susan P Shafer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LCMHC, LCAS
Susan P Shafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LCMHC, LCAS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My strengths include providing warmth, compassion, and connection. My favorite treatment modalities include Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. They have shown proven results with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have loved the difference I have seen these approaches make in my work with others and they made big impacts in my personal work and in getting to know and love myself more.
My strengths include providing warmth, compassion, and connection. My favorite treatment modalities include Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. They have shown proven results with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have loved the difference I have seen these approaches make in my work with others and they made big impacts in my personal work and in getting to know and love myself more.
(910) 791-5719 View (910) 791-5719
Photo of Tinisha M Pender, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Tinisha M Pender
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
Imagine a world where everything is perfect. Life is great; no worries, no stress, no DRAMA!. Now wake up! Life isn't easy. The fears, worries, trauma, and relational issues we carry day to day can keep us from living our lives to the fullest and reaching our full potential. Sometimes we feel our lives are spiraling beyond control. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe space to process life transitions, explore feelings, identify your life's purpose, and help you live the abundant life destined for you.
Imagine a world where everything is perfect. Life is great; no worries, no stress, no DRAMA!. Now wake up! Life isn't easy. The fears, worries, trauma, and relational issues we carry day to day can keep us from living our lives to the fullest and reaching our full potential. Sometimes we feel our lives are spiraling beyond control. My goal as your therapist is to provide a safe space to process life transitions, explore feelings, identify your life's purpose, and help you live the abundant life destined for you.
(864) 634-0930 View (864) 634-0930
Photo of Deanna (Dede) M Norungolo, Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC, LAC, ADC
Deanna (Dede) M Norungolo
Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC, LAC, ADC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
NO waitlist ... Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, a desire for sober living, political fatigue, or the feeling that something or someone didn't give you what you needed, I'll journey with you until you discover that you are actually who you have been waiting for.
NO waitlist ... Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, a desire for sober living, political fatigue, or the feeling that something or someone didn't give you what you needed, I'll journey with you until you discover that you are actually who you have been waiting for.
(864) 572-7986 View (864) 572-7986
Photo of Suzette Guest, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Suzette Guest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe therapy provides the space to honor all aspects of you. As a therapist, I take a compassionate, non-judgmental stance as you explore your truth. Therapy is a time you set aside for your own personal healing and growth. A place to know you are safe, you are heard, and you have inherent worth. It is an honor for me to work with my clients as they navigate life's losses, gains, and transitions, all the while discovering their many strengths. I hope to support you in feeling authentic, empowered, and more balanced in your life.
I believe therapy provides the space to honor all aspects of you. As a therapist, I take a compassionate, non-judgmental stance as you explore your truth. Therapy is a time you set aside for your own personal healing and growth. A place to know you are safe, you are heard, and you have inherent worth. It is an honor for me to work with my clients as they navigate life's losses, gains, and transitions, all the while discovering their many strengths. I hope to support you in feeling authentic, empowered, and more balanced in your life.
(864) 432-5094 View (864) 432-5094
Photo of Hope Threadgill, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, SC LPC, NCLCMHC, NCC,BCC
Hope Threadgill
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, SC LPC, NCLCMHC, NCC,BCC
Online Only
I help clients with Relationship issues, Life stressors, making Healhty life changes, and becoming empowed on a positive path to growth and well-being. My counseling approach emphasizes understanding first, and techniques second. I am existentially grounded, believe clients have the ability to expand their self-awareness, develop confident self image, make healthy choices, create positive meaning and purpose in their life while being successful. I counsel clients to understand their uniqueness, value themselves, have healthy relationships, and find the courage to persist over adversity while positively shaping their own future.
I help clients with Relationship issues, Life stressors, making Healhty life changes, and becoming empowed on a positive path to growth and well-being. My counseling approach emphasizes understanding first, and techniques second. I am existentially grounded, believe clients have the ability to expand their self-awareness, develop confident self image, make healthy choices, create positive meaning and purpose in their life while being successful. I counsel clients to understand their uniqueness, value themselves, have healthy relationships, and find the courage to persist over adversity while positively shaping their own future.
(864) 613-4920 View (864) 613-4920
Photo of Joann Ezra Gavalda, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Joann Ezra Gavalda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Serves Area
At certain points in life, we all need support. Change is possible! As long as there is life, there is hope! Whether faced with a disappoint, daily stress, relationship conflict, addictive behavior, past trauma, or depression and anxiety, we all need help at times. Within the safety of a therapeutic relationship, I will be happy to join in your journey to help restore purpose, peace and balance to your life; to help you find strength to overcome challenges. I'm here to listen, to understand and to offer my professional knowledge, skills, and passion for life to YOU! It would be my privilege to help you find the solutions you seek.
At certain points in life, we all need support. Change is possible! As long as there is life, there is hope! Whether faced with a disappoint, daily stress, relationship conflict, addictive behavior, past trauma, or depression and anxiety, we all need help at times. Within the safety of a therapeutic relationship, I will be happy to join in your journey to help restore purpose, peace and balance to your life; to help you find strength to overcome challenges. I'm here to listen, to understand and to offer my professional knowledge, skills, and passion for life to YOU! It would be my privilege to help you find the solutions you seek.
(864) 252-1474 View (864) 252-1474
Photo of Ruth Harbin - Ruth Harbin Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Ruth Harbin Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
You feel like you are failing at living up to the person you are supposed to be. You are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and misunderstood. Worst of all, you doubt yourself. You keep grasping in different directions, trying to make meaning and find some happiness but it's just not happening for you. Maybe intense emotions keep getting the in the way. Maybe your career or relationship or family isn't turning out the way your had planned in your head. Maybe nothing "feels" right.
You feel like you are failing at living up to the person you are supposed to be. You are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and misunderstood. Worst of all, you doubt yourself. You keep grasping in different directions, trying to make meaning and find some happiness but it's just not happening for you. Maybe intense emotions keep getting the in the way. Maybe your career or relationship or family isn't turning out the way your had planned in your head. Maybe nothing "feels" right.
(864) 375-6567 View (864) 375-6567
Photo of Nicole Elena Grimm, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nicole Elena Grimm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and art therapist I create a safe, welcoming environment for all. At times feelings, thoughts, family, or the life around us, can act as barriers to our goals and values. Together we will identify avenues to decrease those barriers and help you engage in a value driven life.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and art therapist I create a safe, welcoming environment for all. At times feelings, thoughts, family, or the life around us, can act as barriers to our goals and values. Together we will identify avenues to decrease those barriers and help you engage in a value driven life.
(864) 810-6361 View (864) 810-6361

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer C Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jennifer C Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a counselor, mom of four, and wife of 18 years, I know life can change quickly and sometimes we have to develop new skills to keep up with the challenges. I want to empower women, parents, and marriages to grow through those difficult seasons. Taking the first step takes courage, I am here to support you in that process.
As a counselor, mom of four, and wife of 18 years, I know life can change quickly and sometimes we have to develop new skills to keep up with the challenges. I want to empower women, parents, and marriages to grow through those difficult seasons. Taking the first step takes courage, I am here to support you in that process.
(864) 754-0847 View (864) 754-0847
Photo of Stephanie Z Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, LPCS/C
Stephanie Z Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, LPCS/C
Anderson, SC 29621
Not accepting new clients
Stephanie offers free supervision to LPCAs as an LPCS candidate. Please email to inquire about supervision. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Licensed Addictions Counselor; She trained and served as a sexual assault crisis counselor for the state of Connecticut before relocating to South Carolina in 2015. She sees clients ranged from adolescent to geriatric age. Her areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, and addiction. Utilizing a multitude of therapies and interventions- she helps her clients become “unstuck” from their traumas and find joy and purpose in their lives.
Stephanie offers free supervision to LPCAs as an LPCS candidate. Please email to inquire about supervision. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Licensed Addictions Counselor; She trained and served as a sexual assault crisis counselor for the state of Connecticut before relocating to South Carolina in 2015. She sees clients ranged from adolescent to geriatric age. Her areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, and addiction. Utilizing a multitude of therapies and interventions- she helps her clients become “unstuck” from their traumas and find joy and purpose in their lives.
(864) 712-7497 View (864) 712-7497
Photo of Bree Normandin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, MTS, NCC, CCS-I
Bree Normandin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, MTS, NCC, CCS-I
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you ever wake up puzzled by where you are in life? Perhaps you’ve questioned why certain events unfolded the way they did. It’s likely you desire a different path but feel unclear about the steps needed for change. It's all too common to fall back into familiar habits. I'm here to assist you. I offer a new lens on old challenges and a listening ear—someone to prompt you with the right questions to shift your perspective. Together, we can reshape your narrative into one filled with hope and intention. I accept Medicaid, Medicare, and am licensed in SC, and VA as well as Vermont and Florida.
Do you ever wake up puzzled by where you are in life? Perhaps you’ve questioned why certain events unfolded the way they did. It’s likely you desire a different path but feel unclear about the steps needed for change. It's all too common to fall back into familiar habits. I'm here to assist you. I offer a new lens on old challenges and a listening ear—someone to prompt you with the right questions to shift your perspective. Together, we can reshape your narrative into one filled with hope and intention. I accept Medicaid, Medicare, and am licensed in SC, and VA as well as Vermont and Florida.
(828) 266-0411 View (828) 266-0411
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Easley, SC 29640
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(864) 734-7164 View (864) 734-7164
Photo of Michele Hardy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Michele Hardy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Easley, SC 29640
Thank you for reading! I am focused on helping individuals pursue wholeness and address roadblocks to flourishing. Every person has the capacity to heal and I am committed to supporting this process. I enjoy getting to know the unique qualities of the individuals I work with and collaborate with clients to find just the right treatment plan to address the issues of concern. If you are struggling with a known issue like depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relational discord, or, if life just seems to be not optimal, counseling can help! I specialize in issues related to Complex PTSD, Dissociative Disorders and Trauma.
Thank you for reading! I am focused on helping individuals pursue wholeness and address roadblocks to flourishing. Every person has the capacity to heal and I am committed to supporting this process. I enjoy getting to know the unique qualities of the individuals I work with and collaborate with clients to find just the right treatment plan to address the issues of concern. If you are struggling with a known issue like depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relational discord, or, if life just seems to be not optimal, counseling can help! I specialize in issues related to Complex PTSD, Dissociative Disorders and Trauma.
(864) 671-2931 View (864) 671-2931
Photo of Laura E. Clayton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCMHC, LMHC, NCC
Laura E. Clayton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCMHC, LMHC, NCC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
You may feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, depression, or past trauma, unsure how to move forward but ready for change. You want a safe, supportive space to explore your emotions, gain practical tools, and heal from what’s holding you back. Your goals might include rediscovering joy, building confidence, improving relationships, or breaking free from self-doubt. Together, we’ll work to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered to create the life you want and deserve. Let’s take that first step toward growth and resilience.
You may feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, depression, or past trauma, unsure how to move forward but ready for change. You want a safe, supportive space to explore your emotions, gain practical tools, and heal from what’s holding you back. Your goals might include rediscovering joy, building confidence, improving relationships, or breaking free from self-doubt. Together, we’ll work to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered to create the life you want and deserve. Let’s take that first step toward growth and resilience.
(803) 882-3268 View (803) 882-3268
Photo of Jennifer McCullough, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Jennifer McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Online Only
Life can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it brings chaos and storms, which can lead you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, confused, even lost. You may need an ear to listen, a kind voice, or a judgment free place to voice your troubles. Whether it's life transitions, mental struggles, or unavoidable/uncontrollable circumstances, you deserve someone to see you, hear you, and support you on your journey.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it brings chaos and storms, which can lead you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, confused, even lost. You may need an ear to listen, a kind voice, or a judgment free place to voice your troubles. Whether it's life transitions, mental struggles, or unavoidable/uncontrollable circumstances, you deserve someone to see you, hear you, and support you on your journey.
(864) 571-9628 View (864) 571-9628
Photo of Erin Maurer - Inspiring Change Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor
Inspiring Change Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
2 Endorsed
Anderson, SC 29621
People choose to come to counseling for a variety of reasons. We view counseling as an opportunity to talk with someone objective, who is trained to listen. Let's face it, life happens! You might be dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stressful events, or the effects of a trauma in your life. You might desire to become more aware of changes that you can make in order to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life. We believe that every client has strengths and the answers inside of them, but sometimes just need help peeling back some of the layers.
People choose to come to counseling for a variety of reasons. We view counseling as an opportunity to talk with someone objective, who is trained to listen. Let's face it, life happens! You might be dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stressful events, or the effects of a trauma in your life. You might desire to become more aware of changes that you can make in order to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life. We believe that every client has strengths and the answers inside of them, but sometimes just need help peeling back some of the layers.
(864) 932-3194 View (864) 932-3194
Photo of Brooke Nicole Lankford - Bespin Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCS, LPC, NBCC
Bespin Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCS, LPC, NBCC
1 Endorsed
Seneca, SC 29678
** EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE ** ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS ** I have worked with Individuals and Family Systems since 2003. I enjoy working with family systems, parent child relationships, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Often times we can feel anxious or sad about some parts of our life and need someone to talk with about how we are feeling.
** EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE ** ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS ** I have worked with Individuals and Family Systems since 2003. I enjoy working with family systems, parent child relationships, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Often times we can feel anxious or sad about some parts of our life and need someone to talk with about how we are feeling.
(864) 633-2967 View (864) 633-2967
Photo of Dawn Sturkey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Dawn Sturkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
1 Endorsed
Clemson, SC 29631
Are you ready to find the resolution and healing that you need so that you can experience the life and relationships that you really want? If so, I am passionate about helping my clients identify and resolve the obstacles that are keeping them from their goals. In a warm, interactive environment, I will help you look at your concerns using multiple perspectives and proven counseling methods. I have experience with depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma/abuse recovery, grief, stress, and life transitions. My clients are both individuals and couples, and I love to incorporate faith to the extent that clients' desire.
Are you ready to find the resolution and healing that you need so that you can experience the life and relationships that you really want? If so, I am passionate about helping my clients identify and resolve the obstacles that are keeping them from their goals. In a warm, interactive environment, I will help you look at your concerns using multiple perspectives and proven counseling methods. I have experience with depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma/abuse recovery, grief, stress, and life transitions. My clients are both individuals and couples, and I love to incorporate faith to the extent that clients' desire.
(864) 633-3086 View (864) 633-3086

See more therapy options for 29672

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 29672

10+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in 29672 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Coping Skills
90% Grief
90% Self Esteem
90% Stress

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 29672 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 29672?

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.