Therapists in 30606

Photo of Lily Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lily Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Taking the first step to begin or return to supportive therapy can be a difficult place to start. The good news is I am here to help and serve as a guide to navigate this journey alongside you. As we know, life's rollercoaster can be crazy, full of unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, we get stuck on the tracks and don’t know what to do or who to call to move forward. As a clinician, my goal is to meet you where you are at, no matter where you are on your journey, and help direct you to your desired destination through the therapeutic process. I am available for new online clients in Arkansas and South Carolina now!
Taking the first step to begin or return to supportive therapy can be a difficult place to start. The good news is I am here to help and serve as a guide to navigate this journey alongside you. As we know, life's rollercoaster can be crazy, full of unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, we get stuck on the tracks and don’t know what to do or who to call to move forward. As a clinician, my goal is to meet you where you are at, no matter where you are on your journey, and help direct you to your desired destination through the therapeutic process. I am available for new online clients in Arkansas and South Carolina now!
(706) 425-8900 x746 View (706) 425-8900 x746
Photo of Amanda Carver, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Amanda Carver
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Life is hard. We all experience times when it feels like we’re surviving rather than thriving. Do you find yourself trying to gain clarity about who you are and what you want in life now that so many personal roles have been set in motion? Unsure if you want to remain in your marriage or partnership? Or how to move forward after relational loss? Frustrated by dating or exhausted by the roller coaster of your sensitivities or shifting hormones? Between trying to keep all the balls in the air and the confusion and emotional pain of feeling stuck, it can be incredibly difficult to develop or rebuild meaning and love.
Life is hard. We all experience times when it feels like we’re surviving rather than thriving. Do you find yourself trying to gain clarity about who you are and what you want in life now that so many personal roles have been set in motion? Unsure if you want to remain in your marriage or partnership? Or how to move forward after relational loss? Frustrated by dating or exhausted by the roller coaster of your sensitivities or shifting hormones? Between trying to keep all the balls in the air and the confusion and emotional pain of feeling stuck, it can be incredibly difficult to develop or rebuild meaning and love.
(404) 960-7484 View (404) 960-7484
Photo of Susanna Rains Moriarty - Athens Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Athens Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Athens, GA 30606
Not accepting new clients
People come to me feeling overwhelmed, confused, frustrated, and worn out. My goal is to provide compassionate support to my clients during painful transitions, help them gain clarity, develop coping tools, and improve communication skills. Couples come to me feeling disconnected and resentful. I help partners learn new, effective ways to communicate. I build on couples' strengths to help them find a fun, passionate, and intimate way of living. Parents come to me feeling heartbroken and confused by their interactions with their children. I help parents heal their own childhood wounds so that they can parent in a loving way.
People come to me feeling overwhelmed, confused, frustrated, and worn out. My goal is to provide compassionate support to my clients during painful transitions, help them gain clarity, develop coping tools, and improve communication skills. Couples come to me feeling disconnected and resentful. I help partners learn new, effective ways to communicate. I build on couples' strengths to help them find a fun, passionate, and intimate way of living. Parents come to me feeling heartbroken and confused by their interactions with their children. I help parents heal their own childhood wounds so that they can parent in a loving way.
(706) 223-0323 View (706) 223-0323
Photo of Dawn Stula, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CDPC
Dawn Stula
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CDPC
Online Only
In this time of high stress, instability and fear we need to be able to speak freely in a safe space. Most recently that space is thru telemental health. Your challenges, needs and goals lead our discussions as I help create a supportive and validating session that allows you to learn about yourself, heal and grow. Now accepting new clients.
In this time of high stress, instability and fear we need to be able to speak freely in a safe space. Most recently that space is thru telemental health. Your challenges, needs and goals lead our discussions as I help create a supportive and validating session that allows you to learn about yourself, heal and grow. Now accepting new clients.
(706) 406-8048 View (706) 406-8048
Photo of Lindsey York, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lindsey York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
As you navigate the complex challenges of life, you may come to a place where you feel stuck or wonder how to proceed through a difficult time. Perhaps you are grieving a loss or burdened by the lingering effects of a traumatic experience. You might be feeling confused, exhausted, alone, unbalanced, or disconnected. Maybe you are looking for support, connection, and guidance in constructing a roadmap forward. This is where I can be of help. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing anxiety and stress-related disorders; I have a particular interest in serving survivors of childhood abuse/neglect and sexual violence.
As you navigate the complex challenges of life, you may come to a place where you feel stuck or wonder how to proceed through a difficult time. Perhaps you are grieving a loss or burdened by the lingering effects of a traumatic experience. You might be feeling confused, exhausted, alone, unbalanced, or disconnected. Maybe you are looking for support, connection, and guidance in constructing a roadmap forward. This is where I can be of help. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing anxiety and stress-related disorders; I have a particular interest in serving survivors of childhood abuse/neglect and sexual violence.
(706) 425-8900 x733 View (706) 425-8900 x733
Photo of Jaclyn Evans, Psychologist, PsyD, PC
Jaclyn Evans
Psychologist, PsyD, PC
Athens, GA 30606
I offer both individual therapy and psychological assessment. Assessment can be used to gain diagnostic clarity, evaluate for concerns like ADHD or autism, screen for learning challenges, track changes in functioning due to head injury or dementia, and more. For assessment, I see clients 5 years and older. For individual therapy, I see clients age 15 and older. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and coping with life changes. I also worked in university counseling centers for 3 years and am very familiar with the unique experiences and challenges college students face.
I offer both individual therapy and psychological assessment. Assessment can be used to gain diagnostic clarity, evaluate for concerns like ADHD or autism, screen for learning challenges, track changes in functioning due to head injury or dementia, and more. For assessment, I see clients 5 years and older. For individual therapy, I see clients age 15 and older. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and coping with life changes. I also worked in university counseling centers for 3 years and am very familiar with the unique experiences and challenges college students face.
(706) 397-5359 View (706) 397-5359
Photo of Katherine May, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Athens, GA 30606
My name is Katherine May and I look forward to helping you create a life that is peaceful, fruitful, and full of beauty. I believe in helping people build on their strengths, gain insight, and develop effective coping skills. It can be difficult to open up and begin working on personal issues, and I like to tailor our therapy to the individual or family. I always welcome feedback about what is or is not helping. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, work or school stress, adjustment issues, and life transition issues. I love Athens and my work with both residents and UGA students and staff!
My name is Katherine May and I look forward to helping you create a life that is peaceful, fruitful, and full of beauty. I believe in helping people build on their strengths, gain insight, and develop effective coping skills. It can be difficult to open up and begin working on personal issues, and I like to tailor our therapy to the individual or family. I always welcome feedback about what is or is not helping. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, work or school stress, adjustment issues, and life transition issues. I love Athens and my work with both residents and UGA students and staff!
(706) 670-3097 View (706) 670-3097
Photo of Kayla Argo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kayla Argo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
If you are someone who is motivated for change but may need direction or additional support, keep reading! Whether you're looking for a space to talk and process or you're ready to dive into actionable steps, I offer a tailored approach that can range from short-term solutions to long-term support. Often times through casual conversation, I explore someone's beliefs about themselves and their experiences. We can work on building self compassion, insight, self awareness, and self efficacy. I value incorporating the body and can provide tangible coping skills. I want to help you, help yourself.
If you are someone who is motivated for change but may need direction or additional support, keep reading! Whether you're looking for a space to talk and process or you're ready to dive into actionable steps, I offer a tailored approach that can range from short-term solutions to long-term support. Often times through casual conversation, I explore someone's beliefs about themselves and their experiences. We can work on building self compassion, insight, self awareness, and self efficacy. I value incorporating the body and can provide tangible coping skills. I want to help you, help yourself.
(706) 989-9365 View (706) 989-9365
Photo of Tammy Luke, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CRC
Tammy Luke
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CRC
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Good day to you! I'm Tammy and I am proud to be a trusted name in the mental health community. With two decades of experience in providing therapeutic interventions, my approach to wellness is rooted in compassion, empathy, and personalization. I believe in providing comprehensive support to everyone, recognizing unique needs and tailoring my interventions accordingly. By incorporating a holistic perspective, I aim to promote mental clarity and emotional well-being in all aspects of life. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can heal, grow, and thrive.
Good day to you! I'm Tammy and I am proud to be a trusted name in the mental health community. With two decades of experience in providing therapeutic interventions, my approach to wellness is rooted in compassion, empathy, and personalization. I believe in providing comprehensive support to everyone, recognizing unique needs and tailoring my interventions accordingly. By incorporating a holistic perspective, I aim to promote mental clarity and emotional well-being in all aspects of life. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can heal, grow, and thrive.
(706) 600-3954 View (706) 600-3954
Photo of Rachel Clark, Associate Professional Counselor, NCC, LAPC
Rachel Clark
Associate Professional Counselor, NCC, LAPC
2 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Life can sometimes seem like just too much. Stressors like relationships, friendships, school, work, and family obligations can become too heavy to bear. Maybe there is a trauma you have carried for years that you still aren't quite sure how to handle. Maybe you are questioning aspects of your identity and you aren't sure where to turn to speak honestly about them. Or, maybe you just need someone to talk to who can help you process your daily life. That's where counseling can come in.
Life can sometimes seem like just too much. Stressors like relationships, friendships, school, work, and family obligations can become too heavy to bear. Maybe there is a trauma you have carried for years that you still aren't quite sure how to handle. Maybe you are questioning aspects of your identity and you aren't sure where to turn to speak honestly about them. Or, maybe you just need someone to talk to who can help you process your daily life. That's where counseling can come in.
(706) 981-8015 View (706) 981-8015
Photo of Alexes Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexes Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Online Only
I am a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LPC-A) who specializes in working with adult women and couples to navigate the roadblocks preventing them from living with peace and pride. I focus on trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stress management. I completed my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling at the University of Georgia. As both a trauma survivor and a licensed professional, I am able to bring an educational and personal touch to the therapeutic experience.
I am a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LPC-A) who specializes in working with adult women and couples to navigate the roadblocks preventing them from living with peace and pride. I focus on trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stress management. I completed my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling at the University of Georgia. As both a trauma survivor and a licensed professional, I am able to bring an educational and personal touch to the therapeutic experience.
(706) 600-3105 View (706) 600-3105
Photo of Sydney Micheletti, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Sydney Micheletti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
2 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Welcome! My approach to therapy starts with believing that change is in our control and, by working from that mentality, we can learn to accept & grow from what we cannot control in order to live our life in a more optimal way. Being in the LGBT community myself, some of my clients value having a therapist that can connect with that experience. In my therapy space, I value authenticity, safety, freedom to choose, connection to others as well as ourselves, & being challenged. My clients want a safe & comfortable space that can help them facilitate growth (that can sometimes be uncomfortable) & I love when I can provide that.
Welcome! My approach to therapy starts with believing that change is in our control and, by working from that mentality, we can learn to accept & grow from what we cannot control in order to live our life in a more optimal way. Being in the LGBT community myself, some of my clients value having a therapist that can connect with that experience. In my therapy space, I value authenticity, safety, freedom to choose, connection to others as well as ourselves, & being challenged. My clients want a safe & comfortable space that can help them facilitate growth (that can sometimes be uncomfortable) & I love when I can provide that.
(706) 916-3703 View (706) 916-3703
Photo of Erika Heinzle, Counselor, MS, LPC
Erika Heinzle
Counselor, MS, LPC
Athens, GA 30606
I offer individual therapy for personal growth and relationships. My practice focuses on creating a comfortable, welcoming, and grounded atmosphere for clients to grow and find meaning.
I offer individual therapy for personal growth and relationships. My practice focuses on creating a comfortable, welcoming, and grounded atmosphere for clients to grow and find meaning.
(706) 420-6015 View (706) 420-6015
Photo of Jennifer Wood - Jennifer Wood Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCC
Jennifer Wood Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCC
3 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
I help people with managing relationships, involving trauma and childhood neglect. I also work with clients who do not have negative past experiences, but simply want to improve the relationships they have. I provide a warm environment for exploring areas of concern, and I am committed to hearing the spoken and the unspoken, as well as helping you make meaningful connections in your life. As a therapist who is Christian, I also enjoy making spiritual connections and giving encouragement to one's faith journey. I am also comfortable maintaining a safe secular space for you to share your struggles openly and honestly.
I help people with managing relationships, involving trauma and childhood neglect. I also work with clients who do not have negative past experiences, but simply want to improve the relationships they have. I provide a warm environment for exploring areas of concern, and I am committed to hearing the spoken and the unspoken, as well as helping you make meaningful connections in your life. As a therapist who is Christian, I also enjoy making spiritual connections and giving encouragement to one's faith journey. I am also comfortable maintaining a safe secular space for you to share your struggles openly and honestly.
(706) 744-6221 View (706) 744-6221
Photo of Alice M Britt Deal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alice M Britt Deal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Athens, GA 30606
Waitlist for new clients
I value and respect the skill used to seek support, healing, and personal growth through therapy. It is my hope and belief that this shows in the relationships I build with clients. In my work, I partner with individuals to discover and reinforce their unique strengths while helping them uncover their potential for living fulfilling lives. I specialize in treating people with anxiety, depression, or repeated unhelpful behaviors. I also help people work through past trauma and difficult memories.
I value and respect the skill used to seek support, healing, and personal growth through therapy. It is my hope and belief that this shows in the relationships I build with clients. In my work, I partner with individuals to discover and reinforce their unique strengths while helping them uncover their potential for living fulfilling lives. I specialize in treating people with anxiety, depression, or repeated unhelpful behaviors. I also help people work through past trauma and difficult memories.
(706) 425-8900 x703 View (706) 425-8900 x703
Photo of Michelle Bakay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michelle Bakay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Athens, GA 30606
Many of those I work with come to me feeling stuck, uncertain or overwhelmed, struggling to understand loved ones and feeling disconnected. As we work together, you can expect to see meaningful changes. You’ll feel more comfortable in yourself and your relationships. Our work will promote healing, trust and security. If you’re facing challenges in relationships or trauma-related issues, I’m here to support you. Our work will focus on fostering emotional growth and healthy relationships. My approach is rooted in empathy, autonomy and the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing.
Many of those I work with come to me feeling stuck, uncertain or overwhelmed, struggling to understand loved ones and feeling disconnected. As we work together, you can expect to see meaningful changes. You’ll feel more comfortable in yourself and your relationships. Our work will promote healing, trust and security. If you’re facing challenges in relationships or trauma-related issues, I’m here to support you. Our work will focus on fostering emotional growth and healthy relationships. My approach is rooted in empathy, autonomy and the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing.
(706) 786-1639 View (706) 786-1639
Photo of Allia Siler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Allia Siler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Thank you for considering me to be part of your journey. My name is Allia (she/her), and for my clients, I provide a safe and healing place to grow. For the past four years, I’ve worked as a therapist and advocate for child and adult survivors of abuse and sexual assault. And through this work, I have honed my skills in helping people through trauma, transitions, self-worth issues, and identity. I work with a wide range of clients and survivors and particularly gravitate towards individuals within the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities and teens/young adults.
Thank you for considering me to be part of your journey. My name is Allia (she/her), and for my clients, I provide a safe and healing place to grow. For the past four years, I’ve worked as a therapist and advocate for child and adult survivors of abuse and sexual assault. And through this work, I have honed my skills in helping people through trauma, transitions, self-worth issues, and identity. I work with a wide range of clients and survivors and particularly gravitate towards individuals within the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities and teens/young adults.
(706) 916-6260 View (706) 916-6260
Photo of Carlisle Bading, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Carlisle Bading
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Athens, GA 30606
Hi, I’m Carlisle Bading, LMSW. I am a therapist who specializes in supporting children, teens, young adults, and adults through life transitions, depression and anxiety, trauma, relationships, substance use, and the various challenges of day-to-day life. I’m here to support you on your journey to a happier, healthier you. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a relaxed, non-judgemental, and supportive environment. Each person’s path is unique and deserves personalized attention.
Hi, I’m Carlisle Bading, LMSW. I am a therapist who specializes in supporting children, teens, young adults, and adults through life transitions, depression and anxiety, trauma, relationships, substance use, and the various challenges of day-to-day life. I’m here to support you on your journey to a happier, healthier you. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a relaxed, non-judgemental, and supportive environment. Each person’s path is unique and deserves personalized attention.
(706) 640-2276 View (706) 640-2276
Photo of Anna Wohleking - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Athens, Counselor
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(706) 535-5551 View (706) 535-5551
Photo of Amy Davis, MEd, BCBA
Amy Davis
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
Meet Amy Davis, a Georgia native, and a heart for helping others. She has always had a passion to be a voice for the voiceless. Amy provides ABA therapy to individuals with special needs between the ages of 2-18 years of age. Some areas that can be targeted during therapy are increased communication (through words, pictures, signs, or augmented communication devices), daily living skills, social skills, and behavior replacement strategies to reduce hitting, yelling, running away, and more. Amy works with caregivers and the client to increase their quality of life.
Meet Amy Davis, a Georgia native, and a heart for helping others. She has always had a passion to be a voice for the voiceless. Amy provides ABA therapy to individuals with special needs between the ages of 2-18 years of age. Some areas that can be targeted during therapy are increased communication (through words, pictures, signs, or augmented communication devices), daily living skills, social skills, and behavior replacement strategies to reduce hitting, yelling, running away, and more. Amy works with caregivers and the client to increase their quality of life.
(828) 633-4912 View (828) 633-4912

See more therapy options for 30606

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 30606

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 30606 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
68% Coping Skills
68% Self Esteem
67% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
70% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 30606 see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
14% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 30606?

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.