Photo of Melissa Buchanan, MS, LPC/MHS, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Buchanan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC/MHS, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Hi, my name is Melissa and I would love the chance to hear your story and walk alongside you on your journey. As a therapist, I aim to be in your corner, creating a safe, dependable place to help you process, explore new perspectives, and feel supported through life's challenges. I believe many factors impact who you are today (trauma, upbringing, culture, relationship influences, etc), but they do not have to define your future. While counseling with me, we will work together to address your concerns by identifying patterns and focusing on your goals, in lieu of the things weighing you down and causing you pain.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I would love the chance to hear your story and walk alongside you on your journey. As a therapist, I aim to be in your corner, creating a safe, dependable place to help you process, explore new perspectives, and feel supported through life's challenges. I believe many factors impact who you are today (trauma, upbringing, culture, relationship influences, etc), but they do not have to define your future. While counseling with me, we will work together to address your concerns by identifying patterns and focusing on your goals, in lieu of the things weighing you down and causing you pain.
(615) 800-6900 View (615) 800-6900
Photo of Ben N Smith, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Ben N Smith
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Call me for a free 15 minute consultation! Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to get past symptoms of anxiety, depression or trauma? It's common to experience mental health-related challenges in life and to need support at times. We're not born with a built-in understanding of how to be psychologically healthy, so sometimes it's a good idea to seek guidance from an unbiased professional. My ideal client is motivated to understand themselves better and to make the necessary adjustments to improve their quality of life.
Call me for a free 15 minute consultation! Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to get past symptoms of anxiety, depression or trauma? It's common to experience mental health-related challenges in life and to need support at times. We're not born with a built-in understanding of how to be psychologically healthy, so sometimes it's a good idea to seek guidance from an unbiased professional. My ideal client is motivated to understand themselves better and to make the necessary adjustments to improve their quality of life.
(629) 209-5223 View (629) 209-5223
Photo of Blake Howard, MEd, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Blake Howard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Whether you have had years of therapy before or are brand new, I value the chance to hear your story and collaboratively work with you towards your therapeutic hopes. I work most frequently with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and self worth issues. I have welcomed a broad scope of other needs/issues including religious trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, chronic illness, attachment, and men's issues. Having open dialogue and an honest therapeutic relationship is my first goal and I deeply admire when clients are able to build trust and truly open up to themselves and the process. Healing is not linear but it is possible.
Whether you have had years of therapy before or are brand new, I value the chance to hear your story and collaboratively work with you towards your therapeutic hopes. I work most frequently with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and self worth issues. I have welcomed a broad scope of other needs/issues including religious trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, chronic illness, attachment, and men's issues. Having open dialogue and an honest therapeutic relationship is my first goal and I deeply admire when clients are able to build trust and truly open up to themselves and the process. Healing is not linear but it is possible.
(629) 260-4838 View (629) 260-4838
Photo of Alicia Covington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Covington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges? Do you feel overwhelmed by the complexities of mental health issues & seek a compassionate guide to help navigate these obstacles? Alicia Covington, LCSW, is dedicated to supporting children, teens, & young adults, along with their families, in overcoming these unique challenges. Her relational, strengths-based approach empowers clients to harness their unique abilities, enhance their skills, & foster healthier relationships. Imagine your loved one’s journey of transformation & growth, with Alicia as a supportive & understanding ally by their side.
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges? Do you feel overwhelmed by the complexities of mental health issues & seek a compassionate guide to help navigate these obstacles? Alicia Covington, LCSW, is dedicated to supporting children, teens, & young adults, along with their families, in overcoming these unique challenges. Her relational, strengths-based approach empowers clients to harness their unique abilities, enhance their skills, & foster healthier relationships. Imagine your loved one’s journey of transformation & growth, with Alicia as a supportive & understanding ally by their side.
(629) 222-9703 View (629) 222-9703
Photo of Trina Middleton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trina Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have my Masters in Social Work from University of Texas at Arlington. I have worked in the field of mental health and as a therapist for 30 years. I am licensed in Arkansas and Tennessee. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds who are experiencing difficulties such as difficulty coping, low self esteem, anxiety, grief and loss, and stress due to life transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have my Masters in Social Work from University of Texas at Arlington. I have worked in the field of mental health and as a therapist for 30 years. I am licensed in Arkansas and Tennessee. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds who are experiencing difficulties such as difficulty coping, low self esteem, anxiety, grief and loss, and stress due to life transitions.
(615) 808-7133 View (615) 808-7133
Photo of Christine Lawson, MACMHC, MDiv, NCC, LPC -, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACMHC, MDiv, NCC, LPC -, MHSP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
(423) 523-8805 View (423) 523-8805
Photo of Stephanie Insko, PhD, Psychologist
Stephanie Insko
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I began working in the field over 20 years ago, in university counseling centers across the South. Now in private practice, I see adolescents-middle age adults. I strive to join my clients at the point in their process where old patterns are no longer working and collaborate with them to find new ones. I like to set goals together that provide a roadmap for the course of our work, and I challenge my clients to work on things not only in session, but also in their everyday lives. I view therapy as a temporary stop along life’s path; a realignment that sends my clients back out there as healthier and happier versions of themselves.
I began working in the field over 20 years ago, in university counseling centers across the South. Now in private practice, I see adolescents-middle age adults. I strive to join my clients at the point in their process where old patterns are no longer working and collaborate with them to find new ones. I like to set goals together that provide a roadmap for the course of our work, and I challenge my clients to work on things not only in session, but also in their everyday lives. I view therapy as a temporary stop along life’s path; a realignment that sends my clients back out there as healthier and happier versions of themselves.
(615) 933-2314 View (615) 933-2314
Photo of Jess Cotton, MS, LPC-A, MHSP-t, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jess Cotton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-A, MHSP-t
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize with working with adults and adolescents (14+), who are experiencing distress from past traumatic experiences, OCD symptoms, difficult life transitions, and abuse recovery. I often work with clients who are hoping to find healing from traumatic experiences and exploration of faith through spiritual disciplines, expressive arts therapy techniques, somatic techniques, IFS, and inner-child work.
I specialize with working with adults and adolescents (14+), who are experiencing distress from past traumatic experiences, OCD symptoms, difficult life transitions, and abuse recovery. I often work with clients who are hoping to find healing from traumatic experiences and exploration of faith through spiritual disciplines, expressive arts therapy techniques, somatic techniques, IFS, and inner-child work.
(629) 206-6845 View (629) 206-6845
Photo of Karen Hall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Karen Hall and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I let my clients take the lead in what they want to talk about in therapy. I consider clients to be the experts on themselves and what they want to work on. I like to tell clients their options for whatever they consider important work. With trauma I begin by helping clients identify their triggers and soothing mechanisms first, then reveal options like narrative writing, cognitive processing, EMDR, brain-spotting or an integrative approach whichever techniques may be best for them.
Hello, I'm Karen Hall and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I let my clients take the lead in what they want to talk about in therapy. I consider clients to be the experts on themselves and what they want to work on. I like to tell clients their options for whatever they consider important work. With trauma I begin by helping clients identify their triggers and soothing mechanisms first, then reveal options like narrative writing, cognitive processing, EMDR, brain-spotting or an integrative approach whichever techniques may be best for them.
(629) 276-5356 View (629) 276-5356
Photo of Sandra Belizaire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Belizaire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, My name is Sandra. My greatest passion is to come alongside others to help empower them and assist in building self-worth, improve communication in their relationships and help each client reach their maximum potential in life. I also provide Christian counseling based on Biblical values upon client request. My areas of expertise include (but are not limited to): stress management, relationship issues, stress, anger management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and personal growth.
Hi there, My name is Sandra. My greatest passion is to come alongside others to help empower them and assist in building self-worth, improve communication in their relationships and help each client reach their maximum potential in life. I also provide Christian counseling based on Biblical values upon client request. My areas of expertise include (but are not limited to): stress management, relationship issues, stress, anger management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and personal growth.
(615) 205-6765 View (615) 205-6765
Photo of Amandajo Serrano, MEd, LPC, MHSP(T), Licensed Professional Counselor
Amandajo Serrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP(T)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I see you, the nonstop overthinking, the anxious spirals that keep you up at night, the way you replay conversations wondering if you said the right thing. I know how exhausting it is to feel like no matter what you do, it’s never enough like you’re always reaching but never quite feeling secure in your relationships. The fear of being too much or not enough, the weight of your past still shaping how you see yourself today I get it. But here’s the truth: your past doesn’t define you, your worries don’t have to control you, and you are worthy of love and connection exactly as you are. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
I see you, the nonstop overthinking, the anxious spirals that keep you up at night, the way you replay conversations wondering if you said the right thing. I know how exhausting it is to feel like no matter what you do, it’s never enough like you’re always reaching but never quite feeling secure in your relationships. The fear of being too much or not enough, the weight of your past still shaping how you see yourself today I get it. But here’s the truth: your past doesn’t define you, your worries don’t have to control you, and you are worthy of love and connection exactly as you are. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
(629) 265-1957 View (629) 265-1957
Photo of Hannah Allen, LPC, MHSP, (temp), Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Allen
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in supporting people who are dealing with feelings of inadequacy, the impact of trauma, and relationship challenges. Our work together will focus on building a safe therapeutic relationship where you can explore and unpack past wounds, develop healthier attachment patterns, and cultivate the skills to manage anxiety and improve your relationships. Whether you're navigating the effects of past trauma, seeking better relationships, or wanting to break free from patterns of people-pleasing and perfectionism, I’m here to support you in building emotional resilience and deeper self-compassion.
I specialize in supporting people who are dealing with feelings of inadequacy, the impact of trauma, and relationship challenges. Our work together will focus on building a safe therapeutic relationship where you can explore and unpack past wounds, develop healthier attachment patterns, and cultivate the skills to manage anxiety and improve your relationships. Whether you're navigating the effects of past trauma, seeking better relationships, or wanting to break free from patterns of people-pleasing and perfectionism, I’m here to support you in building emotional resilience and deeper self-compassion.
(615) 903-8063 View (615) 903-8063
Photo of Lydia Thompson, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lydia Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
At Concord Family Counseling, we are passionate about working with teenagers and their families. Our goal is for your teen to be authentically themselves, make healthy decisions, and feel like they can overcome any difficulties.
At Concord Family Counseling, we are passionate about working with teenagers and their families. Our goal is for your teen to be authentically themselves, make healthy decisions, and feel like they can overcome any difficulties.
(615) 237-7320 View (615) 237-7320
Photo of Dr. Taylor Dove, PhD, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Taylor Dove
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Something isn’t working. Sometimes nothing works. You feel riddled with anxiety, felled by depression, overwhelmed by stress, or stuck in patterns of destructive behavior that leave you feeling hopeless that lasting change will ever take place. There is help waiting.
Something isn’t working. Sometimes nothing works. You feel riddled with anxiety, felled by depression, overwhelmed by stress, or stuck in patterns of destructive behavior that leave you feeling hopeless that lasting change will ever take place. There is help waiting.
(615) 560-9138 View (615) 560-9138
Photo of Ryan H Daniel, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Ryan H Daniel
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I see a wide range of clients from many different backgrounds. I like to say that I work with "real" people who are struggling with "real" problems. Some of the areas I see on a regular basis include anxiety issues, marital/family problems, and college students. My approach to counseling is integrative and I tailor my sessions to the client and whatever they are struggling with. Often I take a cognitive behavioral approach, but also use other methods when I believe they will be effective.
I see a wide range of clients from many different backgrounds. I like to say that I work with "real" people who are struggling with "real" problems. Some of the areas I see on a regular basis include anxiety issues, marital/family problems, and college students. My approach to counseling is integrative and I tailor my sessions to the client and whatever they are struggling with. Often I take a cognitive behavioral approach, but also use other methods when I believe they will be effective.
(615) 541-2222 View (615) 541-2222
Photo of Rachelle Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachelle Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been blessed to work with individuals, children and families for over the past 13 years. I am focused on improving relationships and strengthening family dynamics. I am trained to address a wide range of issues including communication breakdowns, conflict resolution, parenting challenges, job stressors, educational concerns, childhood and adult trauma and more. I work collaboratively with clients to identify underlying issues and develop practical solutions.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been blessed to work with individuals, children and families for over the past 13 years. I am focused on improving relationships and strengthening family dynamics. I am trained to address a wide range of issues including communication breakdowns, conflict resolution, parenting challenges, job stressors, educational concerns, childhood and adult trauma and more. I work collaboratively with clients to identify underlying issues and develop practical solutions.
(629) 500-9165 View (629) 500-9165
Photo of Allison McGavin, LPC, MHSP, MEd, BA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison McGavin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Hello, I'm glad you stopped by! Please feel free to call/email me. I offer phone/email consultations to discuss what led you here and to see if we'd be a good therapeutic fit. Authenticity, compassion, non-judgment, honesty, and humor are the foundation of my work. As needed by the client, I shift from being primarily a listener, helping you to clarify your needs and wants, to action-oriented and directive, providing resources and skill building. I believe in comprehensive wellness, that emotional, physical, and relational health are interrelated, so even a small change in one area can affect the whole system.
Hello, I'm glad you stopped by! Please feel free to call/email me. I offer phone/email consultations to discuss what led you here and to see if we'd be a good therapeutic fit. Authenticity, compassion, non-judgment, honesty, and humor are the foundation of my work. As needed by the client, I shift from being primarily a listener, helping you to clarify your needs and wants, to action-oriented and directive, providing resources and skill building. I believe in comprehensive wellness, that emotional, physical, and relational health are interrelated, so even a small change in one area can affect the whole system.
(615) 645-3083 View (615) 645-3083
Photo of Tiffany Phillips, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Restoring Hope Therapy Services is here to walk alongside you on your journey towards inner healing and meaningful connections. I am a compassionate therapist who offers personalized care rooted in evidence-based theories. My goal is to provide the support you need to embrace growth and create a fulfilling life. If this sounds like what you are looking for in a therapist, please reach to get started.
Restoring Hope Therapy Services is here to walk alongside you on your journey towards inner healing and meaningful connections. I am a compassionate therapist who offers personalized care rooted in evidence-based theories. My goal is to provide the support you need to embrace growth and create a fulfilling life. If this sounds like what you are looking for in a therapist, please reach to get started.
(615) 857-3755 View (615) 857-3755
Photo of Carla Ponciroli Babb, EdS, ACS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Ponciroli Babb
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, ACS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I want to help you find your center again. Anxious or depressive thoughts pop up and interrupt the life you are trying to lead. The story you thought was going to play out for your life, somehow just doesn't happen. I want to help you rewrite whatever parts of your narrative aren't working for you. You can find a way toward a better life, but you have to understand how your story impacts the way you show up in your own skin and the way you pursue relationship. If hope feels hard to find, I can help. The life you want can feel more in reach, as you find a better understanding of who you were meant to be.
I want to help you find your center again. Anxious or depressive thoughts pop up and interrupt the life you are trying to lead. The story you thought was going to play out for your life, somehow just doesn't happen. I want to help you rewrite whatever parts of your narrative aren't working for you. You can find a way toward a better life, but you have to understand how your story impacts the way you show up in your own skin and the way you pursue relationship. If hope feels hard to find, I can help. The life you want can feel more in reach, as you find a better understanding of who you were meant to be.
(615) 307-4108 View (615) 307-4108
Photo of Laura Deneen, LPC, MHSP, CEDS-S, ACS, NCC, Counselor
Laura Deneen
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CEDS-S, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am passionate about working with clients presenting with eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other women's issues. In my practice, I use a treatment model that is evidence-based and eclectic, as I believe each client's needs vary. These models include, but are not limited to, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. Beginning the journey to recovery from an eating disorder is difficult and one that requires courage-I strive to create an environment that is built on a foundation of trust for this process.
I am passionate about working with clients presenting with eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other women's issues. In my practice, I use a treatment model that is evidence-based and eclectic, as I believe each client's needs vary. These models include, but are not limited to, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. Beginning the journey to recovery from an eating disorder is difficult and one that requires courage-I strive to create an environment that is built on a foundation of trust for this process.
(615) 247-6945 View (615) 247-6945
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 37027

700+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 37027 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills
64% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth
54% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 37027 see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 37027?

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.