Therapists in 35226

Photo of Mary Evelyn Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S, PIP
Mary Evelyn Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S, PIP
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
When a couple is in crisis, there is significant suffering. The same impasse repeats, things feel stale, you have grown apart. The stress of daily life comes between the two of you. Childbirth, betrayal, addiction, sexual dysfunction, trauma, and money issues often create conflict. Do you need to discern whether to remain together? Perhaps you've decided to part with kindness and care to protect your children. Getting married? Pre-martial therapy is a smart-money investment in your relationship. I can provide you with a safe space to express, repair, and recover, no matter what you are facing. I'd be honored to help bring healing.
When a couple is in crisis, there is significant suffering. The same impasse repeats, things feel stale, you have grown apart. The stress of daily life comes between the two of you. Childbirth, betrayal, addiction, sexual dysfunction, trauma, and money issues often create conflict. Do you need to discern whether to remain together? Perhaps you've decided to part with kindness and care to protect your children. Getting married? Pre-martial therapy is a smart-money investment in your relationship. I can provide you with a safe space to express, repair, and recover, no matter what you are facing. I'd be honored to help bring healing.
(205) 797-0081 View (205) 797-0081
Photo of Tara Lawton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tara Lawton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Birmingham, AL 35226
I provide a compassionate and supportive space for you to improve your emotional well-being and personal growth. I work with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. My goal is to help you gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience so you can live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Through a personalized and collaborative approach, I will empower you to create meaningful change and move toward healing and self-discovery.
I provide a compassionate and supportive space for you to improve your emotional well-being and personal growth. I work with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. My goal is to help you gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience so you can live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Through a personalized and collaborative approach, I will empower you to create meaningful change and move toward healing and self-discovery.
(205) 498-5886 View (205) 498-5886
Photo of Bailey Katherine Neese, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Bailey Katherine Neese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
I am a compassionate and dedicated counselor who believes in the power of positive change. My approach to counseling is centered around a focus in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and person-centered therapy. I have extensive experience working with professionals, older adults, trauma, and individuals with substance use disorders. I work with patients to carefully understand their perspective and experiences and tailor my approach to each individual's needs.
I am a compassionate and dedicated counselor who believes in the power of positive change. My approach to counseling is centered around a focus in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and person-centered therapy. I have extensive experience working with professionals, older adults, trauma, and individuals with substance use disorders. I work with patients to carefully understand their perspective and experiences and tailor my approach to each individual's needs.
(205) 293-1034 View (205) 293-1034
Photo of Laura H Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Laura H Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
2 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life. You CAN feel better!
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life. You CAN feel better!
(205) 953-8581 View (205) 953-8581
Photo of Amber Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MPH, MA, LPC, NCC
Amber Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MPH, MA, LPC, NCC
Hoover, AL 35226
Everyone experiences emotional pain that comes by virtue of living life. We face transitions, are met with difficulties, or experience stressors that bring frustration, hurt, and uncertainty. As a therapist, my role is to support you in identifying ways to use your strengths and utilize resources you have to find unique and tailored solutions aligned with your values. I will also provide perspective through situations with strong belief that every person has purpose, passion, and potential awaiting discovery. I believe in honoring the emotional vulnerability of each client by fostering a space of safety and connection.
Everyone experiences emotional pain that comes by virtue of living life. We face transitions, are met with difficulties, or experience stressors that bring frustration, hurt, and uncertainty. As a therapist, my role is to support you in identifying ways to use your strengths and utilize resources you have to find unique and tailored solutions aligned with your values. I will also provide perspective through situations with strong belief that every person has purpose, passion, and potential awaiting discovery. I believe in honoring the emotional vulnerability of each client by fostering a space of safety and connection.
(205) 875-2518 View (205) 875-2518
Photo of Alyssa Brown, Counselor, LPC
Alyssa Brown
Counselor, LPC
Hoover, AL 35226
I'm glad you're here. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next steps, I’m here to walk alongside you with curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for your unique journey. For the past nine years, I’ve worked in eating disorder treatment at various levels of care, and I bring that depth of experience into every session. I primarily work with individuals navigating eating disorders, anxiety, identity exploration, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. I offer affirming care for LGBTQIA+ clients and hold space for all aspects of your identity to be seen, heard, and valued.
I'm glad you're here. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next steps, I’m here to walk alongside you with curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for your unique journey. For the past nine years, I’ve worked in eating disorder treatment at various levels of care, and I bring that depth of experience into every session. I primarily work with individuals navigating eating disorders, anxiety, identity exploration, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. I offer affirming care for LGBTQIA+ clients and hold space for all aspects of your identity to be seen, heard, and valued.
(205) 882-3062 View (205) 882-3062
Photo of Jennifer Lynn McCombs-Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, S
Jennifer Lynn McCombs-Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, S
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
There is no better time than the present to make changes. Are you tired of not making the most of your life? Is parenting, life changes, stress, or negativity making life harder? I sincerely believe that people want to make positive changes in their lives but oftentimes do not know where to start or know what else to do because they have tried so many diff about beginning counseling for yourself, your child, or family, I always provide an atmosphere that is non-judgmental, emotionally safe. In addition, I strive to build a partnership with the client by understanding what they want to work on and how we can tackle that together.
There is no better time than the present to make changes. Are you tired of not making the most of your life? Is parenting, life changes, stress, or negativity making life harder? I sincerely believe that people want to make positive changes in their lives but oftentimes do not know where to start or know what else to do because they have tried so many diff about beginning counseling for yourself, your child, or family, I always provide an atmosphere that is non-judgmental, emotionally safe. In addition, I strive to build a partnership with the client by understanding what they want to work on and how we can tackle that together.
(205) 374-8424 View (205) 374-8424
Photo of Maegan McRoberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Maegan McRoberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
You’re high-achieving and capable, but internally, you’re running a marathon just to stand still. You're likely craving sleep, trying hard to get the rest you know you need, but can't seem to get. You might be a student or a professional whose aspirations feel out of reach because you’re trapped by your anxiety. You don’t just want to vent; you want to trust yourself.
You’re high-achieving and capable, but internally, you’re running a marathon just to stand still. You're likely craving sleep, trying hard to get the rest you know you need, but can't seem to get. You might be a student or a professional whose aspirations feel out of reach because you’re trapped by your anxiety. You don’t just want to vent; you want to trust yourself.
(205) 931-5111 View (205) 931-5111
Photo of Mindy Ryan, Counselor, A, L, C
Mindy Ryan
Counselor, A, L, C
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite yourself? Life doesn’t always unfold the way we expect, and it’s normal to feel out of sync or weighed down by challenges. If you're navigating anxiety, depression, grief, or major life transitions, you're not alone—and you don't have to go through it alone. As a counselor, I offer a supportive space where we can work together to uncover your strengths, explore new strategies, and move toward meaningful change. My approach blends warmth with practicality, drawing from years of experience in business, life, and counseling to provide grounded, compassionate care.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite yourself? Life doesn’t always unfold the way we expect, and it’s normal to feel out of sync or weighed down by challenges. If you're navigating anxiety, depression, grief, or major life transitions, you're not alone—and you don't have to go through it alone. As a counselor, I offer a supportive space where we can work together to uncover your strengths, explore new strategies, and move toward meaningful change. My approach blends warmth with practicality, drawing from years of experience in business, life, and counseling to provide grounded, compassionate care.
(205) 953-3814 View (205) 953-3814
Photo of Ashley Underwood - Ashley H Underwood Flourish Wellness Center Llc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S
Ashley H Underwood Flourish Wellness Center Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S
Hoover, AL 35226
Life can be challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. There are no perfect people or families but healthy individuals help build healthy families and children. I have 25 years experience in the mental health profession. Relational conflict, behavioral issues, anxiety, grief, and depression are a few of the issues I specialize in (extensive list in specialties section). Counseling by a licensed professional, is the best place to seek help. Openness, attending sessions, and a willingness to practice skills outside of sessions is all that's needed of you for a successful experience, you set the pace.
Life can be challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. There are no perfect people or families but healthy individuals help build healthy families and children. I have 25 years experience in the mental health profession. Relational conflict, behavioral issues, anxiety, grief, and depression are a few of the issues I specialize in (extensive list in specialties section). Counseling by a licensed professional, is the best place to seek help. Openness, attending sessions, and a willingness to practice skills outside of sessions is all that's needed of you for a successful experience, you set the pace.
(205) 316-9424 View (205) 316-9424
Affordable Counseling Therapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Here at Affordable Counseling Therapy (ACT), we are committed to treating our clients with caring, qualified, licensed professionals in the field of mental health. Our team of experts addresses underlying causes of mental distress, substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients through their journey to become whole.
Here at Affordable Counseling Therapy (ACT), we are committed to treating our clients with caring, qualified, licensed professionals in the field of mental health. Our team of experts addresses underlying causes of mental distress, substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients through their journey to become whole.
(205) 619-6953 View (205) 619-6953
Photo of Katie O'Donnell Pietri, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, MEd
Katie O'Donnell Pietri
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, MEd
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, and I truly understand how difficult that first step can be. As your therapist, my goal is to be there with you every step of the way, offering support as you navigate what comes next. One of the most important aspects of our work together is creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I honor the bravery it takes to be vulnerable, and I’m committed to making sure you feel heard, valued, and encouraged in this journey.
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, and I truly understand how difficult that first step can be. As your therapist, my goal is to be there with you every step of the way, offering support as you navigate what comes next. One of the most important aspects of our work together is creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I honor the bravery it takes to be vulnerable, and I’m committed to making sure you feel heard, valued, and encouraged in this journey.
(205) 851-8596 View (205) 851-8596
Photo of Eleanor M Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-Int
Eleanor M Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-Int
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
My ideal clients are individuals and couples ready to heal, not just cope. They’re struggling with broken trust, unresolved trauma, or emotional disconnection and want to rebuild relationships, set healthy boundaries, and find peace. They seek a safe, grace-filled space to process pain, gain clarity, and rediscover purpose. They’re motivated for real change—ready to grow through what they’ve gone through and live with authenticity, confidence, and emotional freedom.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples ready to heal, not just cope. They’re struggling with broken trust, unresolved trauma, or emotional disconnection and want to rebuild relationships, set healthy boundaries, and find peace. They seek a safe, grace-filled space to process pain, gain clarity, and rediscover purpose. They’re motivated for real change—ready to grow through what they’ve gone through and live with authenticity, confidence, and emotional freedom.
(205) 273-5370 View (205) 273-5370
Photo of Jeremy Robuck, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jeremy Robuck
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Birmingham, AL 35226
I specialize in counseling children, teenagers, college students, young adults, and parents with various concerns, such as anxiety, social skills, behavioral issues, and anger management skills, parent/teenager relationships, and school issues. I am particularly passionate about helping children and teenagers learn social skills and coping skills to thrive in schools and at home, as many children have a difficult time in the adolescent and teenage years discovering who they are and how to handle emotions. I also love working with college students to help work through anxiety and pressure many students face.
I specialize in counseling children, teenagers, college students, young adults, and parents with various concerns, such as anxiety, social skills, behavioral issues, and anger management skills, parent/teenager relationships, and school issues. I am particularly passionate about helping children and teenagers learn social skills and coping skills to thrive in schools and at home, as many children have a difficult time in the adolescent and teenage years discovering who they are and how to handle emotions. I also love working with college students to help work through anxiety and pressure many students face.
(659) 212-5376 View (659) 212-5376
Photo of Brian Bradford, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brian Bradford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Birmingham, AL 35226
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
(205) 990-3674 View (205) 990-3674
Photo of Millard McKenzie Barnes - Grace Counseling Service, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Grace Counseling Service
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Almost everyone finds a time in life where their issues are having a negative impact on their lives and their relationships. As a counselor my goal is to meet my clients where they are without judgement and to achieve their life goals. I work with both individuals and families as well as marriages. If you are struggling and dealing with frustration and despair there is help and hope and you do not have to deal with these issues alone. At Grace Counseling we have not only clinical experience but I understand because I have been there.
Almost everyone finds a time in life where their issues are having a negative impact on their lives and their relationships. As a counselor my goal is to meet my clients where they are without judgement and to achieve their life goals. I work with both individuals and families as well as marriages. If you are struggling and dealing with frustration and despair there is help and hope and you do not have to deal with these issues alone. At Grace Counseling we have not only clinical experience but I understand because I have been there.
(205) 910-4573 View (205) 910-4573
Photo of Chernell D. Bizzell-Barnett - Magic City Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CCM, CGP
Magic City Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CCM, CGP
Hoover, AL 35226
Life can be very challenging. It's not if, we will be faced with challenges, the question is, when? Are you or someone you love feeling "stuck" and are not sure which direction to take? Allow me to utilize my counseling skills to walk alongside you to help to find personal direction. In addition to counseling, I pride myself on being supportive, encouraging and non-judgmental so that I am able to effectively assist you during your difficult time. Let me join your team, team you, to help you work through the unpredictability of life, and all the challenges life brings.
Life can be very challenging. It's not if, we will be faced with challenges, the question is, when? Are you or someone you love feeling "stuck" and are not sure which direction to take? Allow me to utilize my counseling skills to walk alongside you to help to find personal direction. In addition to counseling, I pride myself on being supportive, encouraging and non-judgmental so that I am able to effectively assist you during your difficult time. Let me join your team, team you, to help you work through the unpredictability of life, and all the challenges life brings.
(205) 236-3208 View (205) 236-3208
Photo of Deirdre Crochen Rose, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC-S, NCC
Deirdre Crochen Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC-S, NCC
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
My ideal client is someone navigating a significant life transition—such agrief, relationship changes, career shifts, or emotional overwhelm. They may feel stuck, anxious, or hopeless, yet are courageous enough to seek help even if they’re unsure of where to begin. They need a safe, compassionate space to process their emotions, reconnect with themselves, and regain a sense of control. Their goals often include achieving emotional stability, developing stronger coping skills, and fostering renewed purpose. They want to believe that healing is possible and that they can move forward with confidence, resilience, and hope.
My ideal client is someone navigating a significant life transition—such agrief, relationship changes, career shifts, or emotional overwhelm. They may feel stuck, anxious, or hopeless, yet are courageous enough to seek help even if they’re unsure of where to begin. They need a safe, compassionate space to process their emotions, reconnect with themselves, and regain a sense of control. Their goals often include achieving emotional stability, developing stronger coping skills, and fostering renewed purpose. They want to believe that healing is possible and that they can move forward with confidence, resilience, and hope.
(205) 984-1945 View (205) 984-1945
Photo of Rachel E Lawley, Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Rachel E Lawley
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
EMDR Trained! Life problems create feelings of depression, loneliness, hopelessness, and anxiety. In therapy we explore the reasons for self-defeating behavior. As we become more aware of what we do and why, we can begin to make the necessary changes for a happier, more fulfilling life. Who would you be if you were all that you can be? The ability to be fully yourself, comfortable in your own skin, enjoying your relationships - these possibilities are in you, no matter how great the obstacles you have met in your life. Working together, we will build on your strengths, heal your relationship with yourself, and create lasting change.
EMDR Trained! Life problems create feelings of depression, loneliness, hopelessness, and anxiety. In therapy we explore the reasons for self-defeating behavior. As we become more aware of what we do and why, we can begin to make the necessary changes for a happier, more fulfilling life. Who would you be if you were all that you can be? The ability to be fully yourself, comfortable in your own skin, enjoying your relationships - these possibilities are in you, no matter how great the obstacles you have met in your life. Working together, we will build on your strengths, heal your relationship with yourself, and create lasting change.
(205) 289-7023 View (205) 289-7023
Photo of Dr. Terra Sharron Griffin, Counselor, Ed D, LPC-S, NCC
Dr. Terra Sharron Griffin
Counselor, Ed D, LPC-S, NCC
3 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
If you are experiencing a challenging time in your life personally or professionally, need assistance working through a conflict or you are simply seeking personal growth, I am here to journey with you along the path; providing Support, Acceptance, and Guidance towards your Enlightenment (SAGE).
If you are experiencing a challenging time in your life personally or professionally, need assistance working through a conflict or you are simply seeking personal growth, I am here to journey with you along the path; providing Support, Acceptance, and Guidance towards your Enlightenment (SAGE).
(205) 953-8912 View (205) 953-8912

See more therapy options for 35226

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 35226

100+

Average cost per session

$144

Therapists in 35226 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
75% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
74% Stress
73% Relationship Issues
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
53% New Directions | Lucet
40% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 35226 see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 35226?

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.