Therapists in Tallahassee, FL

Photo of LeMae DeVane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
LeMae DeVane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Gulf Wind Counseling was founded with a vision of providing high-quality psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults regardless of socio-economic background. We develop treatment strategies based on the specific needs of clients using evidence-based therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Typical challenges we can help with include depression, anxiety, anger, opposition, defiance, family conflict, couples conflict, school refusal, blended families, manic behavior, grief, trauma and substance misuse.
Gulf Wind Counseling was founded with a vision of providing high-quality psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults regardless of socio-economic background. We develop treatment strategies based on the specific needs of clients using evidence-based therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Typical challenges we can help with include depression, anxiety, anger, opposition, defiance, family conflict, couples conflict, school refusal, blended families, manic behavior, grief, trauma and substance misuse.
(850) 801-3950 View (850) 801-3950
Photo of Jae Littles in Tallahassee, FL
Jae Littles
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Hi, I’m Jae. I’m glad you’re here. Many of us grapple with negative beliefs that hinder self-recognition, causing us to occasionally lose our way. However, overcoming these challenges is possible, and I'm here to support you. ​ I specialize in assisting adults navigating life transitions and women coping with high-functioning anxiety, trauma, and depression. Through the use of DBT, somatic therapy, and mindfulness techniques, we can interrupt negative thought patterns and reactivity. Together, we'll collaborate to alleviate the burdens you carry, boost your self-esteem, reshape your mindset, and foster more meaningful connections.
Hi, I’m Jae. I’m glad you’re here. Many of us grapple with negative beliefs that hinder self-recognition, causing us to occasionally lose our way. However, overcoming these challenges is possible, and I'm here to support you. ​ I specialize in assisting adults navigating life transitions and women coping with high-functioning anxiety, trauma, and depression. Through the use of DBT, somatic therapy, and mindfulness techniques, we can interrupt negative thought patterns and reactivity. Together, we'll collaborate to alleviate the burdens you carry, boost your self-esteem, reshape your mindset, and foster more meaningful connections.
(904) 780-9192 View (904) 780-9192
Photo of David Alan Silvers, Counselor in Tallahassee, FL
David Alan Silvers
Counselor, MS, LMHC-S, CSAT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32309
David Silvers, Licensed Therapist – LMHC - State of Florida, and a CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist). He earned his MS from Troy State University in Counseling and Human Development and has trained with Dr. Patrick Carnes through the International Institute of Addiction Professionals (IITAP). David specializes in the treatment of sex addiction and other co-occurring disorders including depression, anxiety, and trauma. He has been in the addiction treatment field since 2007 and understands the devastating effects of active addiction and that recovery and lasting change is possible.
David Silvers, Licensed Therapist – LMHC - State of Florida, and a CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist). He earned his MS from Troy State University in Counseling and Human Development and has trained with Dr. Patrick Carnes through the International Institute of Addiction Professionals (IITAP). David specializes in the treatment of sex addiction and other co-occurring disorders including depression, anxiety, and trauma. He has been in the addiction treatment field since 2007 and understands the devastating effects of active addiction and that recovery and lasting change is possible.
(850) 307-0540 View (850) 307-0540
Photo of P. Dianne Presley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
P. Dianne Presley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Not accepting new clients
If you are looking for a marriage counselor trained in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, you have found what you are looking for. From communication to betrayal, we come alongside you with new tools. The Gottman Method is a research-based therapy that counsels clients through a framework of healing called Atonement, Attunement and Attachment. First you work to repair betrayals and face the consequences. Then, over time, clients tune in intimately to each other to heal. Eventually relationship counseling takes the couple beyond the betrayal to a second marriage stronger and more intimate than ever.
If you are looking for a marriage counselor trained in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, you have found what you are looking for. From communication to betrayal, we come alongside you with new tools. The Gottman Method is a research-based therapy that counsels clients through a framework of healing called Atonement, Attunement and Attachment. First you work to repair betrayals and face the consequences. Then, over time, clients tune in intimately to each other to heal. Eventually relationship counseling takes the couple beyond the betrayal to a second marriage stronger and more intimate than ever.
(850) 724-7133 View (850) 724-7133
Photo of Heather Robbins, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Tallahassee, FL
Heather Robbins
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, ATR, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32303  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is open to exploring themselves using creative expression. I have experience with many art mediums and use art to assist clients with gaining insight in areas that align with their needs and goals. I enjoy working with clients on emotional expression and identification as well as helping clients identify coping strategies that work for them to assist with mood and emotional issues.
My ideal client is someone who is open to exploring themselves using creative expression. I have experience with many art mediums and use art to assist clients with gaining insight in areas that align with their needs and goals. I enjoy working with clients on emotional expression and identification as well as helping clients identify coping strategies that work for them to assist with mood and emotional issues.
(850) 940-7613 View (850) 940-7613
Photo of Angela Blount in Tallahassee, FL
Angela Blount
LMHC
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Are your feelings often invalidated by the people you love? Are you frustrated with dismissive responses, feeling disregarded, unseen, and unheard? Are you aiming to make everyone happy but feel your best efforts fall short of their expectations? Do you feel you need to be doing more despite achieving what others may deem as success? If you struggle with putting others' needs before your own, communicating your feelings and emotions authentically, and constantly feeling like you're not doing enough - you're in the right place.
Are your feelings often invalidated by the people you love? Are you frustrated with dismissive responses, feeling disregarded, unseen, and unheard? Are you aiming to make everyone happy but feel your best efforts fall short of their expectations? Do you feel you need to be doing more despite achieving what others may deem as success? If you struggle with putting others' needs before your own, communicating your feelings and emotions authentically, and constantly feeling like you're not doing enough - you're in the right place.
(850) 304-0335 View (850) 304-0335
Photo of Jordan Ainsley in Tallahassee, FL
Jordan Ainsley
PhD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301  (Online Only)
I offer depth therapy; a powerful, evidence-based form of therapy for fostering reflection, inspiration, and personal growth. Through depth therapy, you can find a greater sense of calm – the feeling of inner security and stability; more joy – the mental space to enjoy things more, to appreciate, to laugh, to be curious; and connection – deeper relationships, a sense of your ancestry and legacy and your place in stories that started before you and which shaped who you are.
I offer depth therapy; a powerful, evidence-based form of therapy for fostering reflection, inspiration, and personal growth. Through depth therapy, you can find a greater sense of calm – the feeling of inner security and stability; more joy – the mental space to enjoy things more, to appreciate, to laugh, to be curious; and connection – deeper relationships, a sense of your ancestry and legacy and your place in stories that started before you and which shaped who you are.
(850) 605-3696 View (850) 605-3696
Photo of Tracy L Bane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
Tracy L Bane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32309
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults and families. My specialties are stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child issues, trauma, abuse, blended families, behavior problems, self esteem and parenting. I use a variety of modalities including cognitive-behavioral therapy, client- centered therapy, Solution focused therapy, and Christian counseling. I have a special love for teens, and love to see them blossom and grow as they discover their true potential. You will find our office to be a warm, friendly, relaxed place to seek wholeness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults and families. My specialties are stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parent/child issues, trauma, abuse, blended families, behavior problems, self esteem and parenting. I use a variety of modalities including cognitive-behavioral therapy, client- centered therapy, Solution focused therapy, and Christian counseling. I have a special love for teens, and love to see them blossom and grow as they discover their true potential. You will find our office to be a warm, friendly, relaxed place to seek wholeness.
(850) 665-2482 View (850) 665-2482
Photo of Dr. Kortney Clinton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
Dr. Kortney Clinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32303  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Kortney Clinton, a licensed therapist dedicated to helping clients overcome anxiety and trauma. With a compassionate approach and evidence-based techniques, I provide personalized therapy sessions aimed at supporting individuals through their healing journey. My goal is to create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and ultimately find peace and resilience amidst their struggles. Together, we'll work towards reclaiming control over your life and building a brighter, more fulfilling future.
I'm Kortney Clinton, a licensed therapist dedicated to helping clients overcome anxiety and trauma. With a compassionate approach and evidence-based techniques, I provide personalized therapy sessions aimed at supporting individuals through their healing journey. My goal is to create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and ultimately find peace and resilience amidst their struggles. Together, we'll work towards reclaiming control over your life and building a brighter, more fulfilling future.
(850) 493-7413 View (850) 493-7413
Photo of Anew Life Counseling and Consulting Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
Anew Life Counseling and Consulting Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301
At ‘Anew Life' we understand that life is challenging and full of unexpected events for any and everyone. These events can leave deep emotional scars, painful memories, and setbacks if not appropriately addressed. The emotions can cause a person to act, live, and think in ways they usually wouldn’t. Anew Life wants to help that individual, couple, or family set a fresh course for their life. To achieve this goal, we continuously make it our priority to provide a therapeutic environment that is centered around growth, clarity, and a new beginning. After all, we all have needed a fresh start in our lives at one time or another!
At ‘Anew Life' we understand that life is challenging and full of unexpected events for any and everyone. These events can leave deep emotional scars, painful memories, and setbacks if not appropriately addressed. The emotions can cause a person to act, live, and think in ways they usually wouldn’t. Anew Life wants to help that individual, couple, or family set a fresh course for their life. To achieve this goal, we continuously make it our priority to provide a therapeutic environment that is centered around growth, clarity, and a new beginning. After all, we all have needed a fresh start in our lives at one time or another!
(850) 907-7180 View (850) 907-7180
Photo of Nicole Houston, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tallahassee, FL
Nicole Houston
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Are you struggling with depressed mood or anxiety? Do you have issues with self confidence? Do you sometimes wish you could talk it over with someone who is non-judgmental and has your best interest in mind?
Are you struggling with depressed mood or anxiety? Do you have issues with self confidence? Do you sometimes wish you could talk it over with someone who is non-judgmental and has your best interest in mind?
(850) 608-8414 View (850) 608-8414
Photo of Chika Hooper, Psychologist in Tallahassee, FL
Chika Hooper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301
*OPEN for Testing/Evaluations only (Mood Concerns, ADHD testing, and Autism testing); ** "I learned to no longer wait for people to change so my life could improve. Instead, I began making changes and my life improved." - Melaninandmentalhealth.com
*OPEN for Testing/Evaluations only (Mood Concerns, ADHD testing, and Autism testing); ** "I learned to no longer wait for people to change so my life could improve. Instead, I began making changes and my life improved." - Melaninandmentalhealth.com
(850) 367-7347 View (850) 367-7347
Photo of Sharon Sykes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
Sharon Sykes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32301  (Online Only)
Are you at a Crossroad in life? Feeling stuck and nowhere to turn? Smiling on the Outside but Hurting on the Inside? If this is you, This is Your Time! Time to remove the veil of life's disappointments, pain of the past and find YOU again! Your true self! Your authentic self! And live your Best Life! A life that you can't wait to wake up to each day! It would be my pleasure to go on this journey with you.
Are you at a Crossroad in life? Feeling stuck and nowhere to turn? Smiling on the Outside but Hurting on the Inside? If this is you, This is Your Time! Time to remove the veil of life's disappointments, pain of the past and find YOU again! Your true self! Your authentic self! And live your Best Life! A life that you can't wait to wake up to each day! It would be my pleasure to go on this journey with you.
(850) 498-1388 View (850) 498-1388
Photo of Kimberly Christian - Wilder Wellness, Counselor in Tallahassee, FL
Kimberly Christian - Wilder Wellness
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32301
How does trauma impact systems? This is the question that guides my practice as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Trauma is like an invasive plant, weaving its way throughout multiple parts of our lives. Untreated trauma can feel like it’s blocking all light. I’ve been working in the field of trauma since 2012. My work has taken me to Haiti, where I volunteered with an orphanage, helping staff become more trauma-informed. I’ve worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds, including children and adults who are survivors of sexual abuse.
How does trauma impact systems? This is the question that guides my practice as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Trauma is like an invasive plant, weaving its way throughout multiple parts of our lives. Untreated trauma can feel like it’s blocking all light. I’ve been working in the field of trauma since 2012. My work has taken me to Haiti, where I volunteered with an orphanage, helping staff become more trauma-informed. I’ve worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds, including children and adults who are survivors of sexual abuse.
(850) 203-5488 View (850) 203-5488
Photo of Courtney Willoughby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tallahassee, FL
Courtney Willoughby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Waitlist for new clients
I focus in session on every angle of life and how it may be impacting your mental health. From daily healthy habits to our purpose in life, it shapes how we feel. My goal is to get you from surviving to thriving. With this in mind I find I work best with adolescents to young adults as they transition through a big change into independence but have helped many gain control in their lives from age 10-70.
I focus in session on every angle of life and how it may be impacting your mental health. From daily healthy habits to our purpose in life, it shapes how we feel. My goal is to get you from surviving to thriving. With this in mind I find I work best with adolescents to young adults as they transition through a big change into independence but have helped many gain control in their lives from age 10-70.
(850) 427-6490 View (850) 427-6490
Photo of Jim Bramblett, Counselor in Tallahassee, FL
Jim Bramblett
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32309
I enjoy meeting with individuals and couples concerning a variety of issues to improve their relationships and overall well-being. Most of my clients present with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, substance use/abuse and/or grief (I also work with other issues as listed in my profile). Although I utilize an integrative approach, using multiple counseling theories, I view them all through a Christian lens to discern only what aligns with biblical truth. My passion is to determine what will best address your needs based on your personal concerns, circumstances, and challenges.
I enjoy meeting with individuals and couples concerning a variety of issues to improve their relationships and overall well-being. Most of my clients present with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, substance use/abuse and/or grief (I also work with other issues as listed in my profile). Although I utilize an integrative approach, using multiple counseling theories, I view them all through a Christian lens to discern only what aligns with biblical truth. My passion is to determine what will best address your needs based on your personal concerns, circumstances, and challenges.
(850) 918-8558 View (850) 918-8558
Photo of Pola Sanchez-Baker, Counselor in Tallahassee, FL
Pola Sanchez-Baker
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32303
Are you going through a tough time? Is something holding you back from happiness? Together we will unblock the path to your well-being and happiness. Whatever you might have suffered in the past, you deserve to be happy and free to live life to the fullest today. My approach is direct, yet compassionate. I am a practical person and I use techniques that are effective, practical, logical, and evidence-based. I have 29 years of experience helping people overcome depression, anxiety, self esteem issues and other mental health problems. Our treatment approach will be based on your individual needs.
Are you going through a tough time? Is something holding you back from happiness? Together we will unblock the path to your well-being and happiness. Whatever you might have suffered in the past, you deserve to be happy and free to live life to the fullest today. My approach is direct, yet compassionate. I am a practical person and I use techniques that are effective, practical, logical, and evidence-based. I have 29 years of experience helping people overcome depression, anxiety, self esteem issues and other mental health problems. Our treatment approach will be based on your individual needs.
(850) 792-8397 View (850) 792-8397
Photo of David A. Money, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
David A. Money
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32304
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” -Carl Rogers. I have a passion to assist persons that have a history of trauma that has affected their lives in a negative fashion. Therapy could be seen as a journey to find the answers you have been seeking in order to live a more fulfilled, peaceful life filled with happiness. To assist you in your journey is my passion. If you are on this page, you are seeking more out of life. This is the first step in that direction.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” -Carl Rogers. I have a passion to assist persons that have a history of trauma that has affected their lives in a negative fashion. Therapy could be seen as a journey to find the answers you have been seeking in order to live a more fulfilled, peaceful life filled with happiness. To assist you in your journey is my passion. If you are on this page, you are seeking more out of life. This is the first step in that direction.
(850) 754-6500 View (850) 754-6500
Photo of Madalyn Conetta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
Madalyn Conetta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience struggles from time to time that may leave us feeling overwhelmed, or numb and disconnected. Whether you are recovering from trauma, experiencing relationship difficulties, seeking insight, or needing a safe space to work through difficult emotions- therapy can help you forge a new way forward while collaborating with a caring clinician. Although starting therapy can feel a bit scary, it is a worthy process.
We all experience struggles from time to time that may leave us feeling overwhelmed, or numb and disconnected. Whether you are recovering from trauma, experiencing relationship difficulties, seeking insight, or needing a safe space to work through difficult emotions- therapy can help you forge a new way forward while collaborating with a caring clinician. Although starting therapy can feel a bit scary, it is a worthy process.
(850) 605-3526 View (850) 605-3526
Photo of Jack Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tallahassee, FL
Jack Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallahassee, FL 32308
TownsendARC provides individual counseling for a variety of addiction and mental health issues. We also provide a Substance Abuse and Relapse Prevention treatment. We preform evaluations for Court, Probation, and provide the Federal DOT/FMCSA SAP Program (Qualified Substance Abuse Professional under Federal DOT). We also provide guidance for employers regarding the new Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. TownsendARC has been in business in Tallahassee since 1984 and was originally run by Dr. Albert Menduni at Tallahassee Community Hospital as the Addiction Recovery Center.
TownsendARC provides individual counseling for a variety of addiction and mental health issues. We also provide a Substance Abuse and Relapse Prevention treatment. We preform evaluations for Court, Probation, and provide the Federal DOT/FMCSA SAP Program (Qualified Substance Abuse Professional under Federal DOT). We also provide guidance for employers regarding the new Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. TownsendARC has been in business in Tallahassee since 1984 and was originally run by Dr. Albert Menduni at Tallahassee Community Hospital as the Addiction Recovery Center.
(850) 316-8657 View (850) 316-8657

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Tallahassee, FL

500+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Tallahassee, FL who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
65% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Tallahassee, FL see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Tallahassee?

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.