Photo of Ronald Richard Brown, Psychologist, PhD
Ronald Richard Brown
Psychologist, PhD
Knoxville, TN 37918
All of the clients, of which I am honored to see, are ideal. These are clients struggling and/challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Grief or Loss, Pre-Marital, Marital and Divorce concerns, Parenting Skills Training, Christian Counseling, and Sports Psychology are also services provided.
All of the clients, of which I am honored to see, are ideal. These are clients struggling and/challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Grief or Loss, Pre-Marital, Marital and Divorce concerns, Parenting Skills Training, Christian Counseling, and Sports Psychology are also services provided.
(865) 329-6249 View (865) 329-6249
Photo of Shay Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shay Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Knoxville, TN 37918
I am a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience working with diverse populations across a variety of treatment settings, including both outpatient and inpatient care, crisis services, and partial hospitalization programs since 2013. My areas of expertise are wide-ranging, including treating PTSD (in both children and adults), trauma-related disorders, and anxiety-based disorders. I am experienced personally and professionally in supporting individuals with chronic pain, chronic or terminal illness, illness survivors, and those in remission from medical illness.
I am a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience working with diverse populations across a variety of treatment settings, including both outpatient and inpatient care, crisis services, and partial hospitalization programs since 2013. My areas of expertise are wide-ranging, including treating PTSD (in both children and adults), trauma-related disorders, and anxiety-based disorders. I am experienced personally and professionally in supporting individuals with chronic pain, chronic or terminal illness, illness survivors, and those in remission from medical illness.
(865) 377-0928 View (865) 377-0928
Photo of Olivia Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Olivia Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Nothing touches the pain that you feel in your body. You have tried it all: cortisone injections, surgery, MRI’s, X-Rays, physical therapy, doctors, acupuncture, massage, and medications. None of it has alleviated the pain. Hopelessness has set in. Every second of the day has become about how to escape the pain. Depression increases from what you can’t do anymore because of the pain. Anxiety spikes as you can’t figure out how to make it better or go away. You watch your movements like a hawk to make sure you don’t make it any worse. You are at your wits end. In spite of it all, there is hope.
Nothing touches the pain that you feel in your body. You have tried it all: cortisone injections, surgery, MRI’s, X-Rays, physical therapy, doctors, acupuncture, massage, and medications. None of it has alleviated the pain. Hopelessness has set in. Every second of the day has become about how to escape the pain. Depression increases from what you can’t do anymore because of the pain. Anxiety spikes as you can’t figure out how to make it better or go away. You watch your movements like a hawk to make sure you don’t make it any worse. You are at your wits end. In spite of it all, there is hope.
(629) 356-5987 View (629) 356-5987
Photo of Brittney Nicole Phelps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brittney Nicole Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Brittney, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I work to help those who are confused, maybe frustrated with what life has brought and are looking for the next steps in moving forward. I can help address past or recent trauma, anxieties, self-esteem issues, relationship issues or building, whatever is needed to work on to be able to move forward. I have a deep belief that everyone has a great potential regardless of their past, and I want to be the one that helps guide them through that journey.
My name is Brittney, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I work to help those who are confused, maybe frustrated with what life has brought and are looking for the next steps in moving forward. I can help address past or recent trauma, anxieties, self-esteem issues, relationship issues or building, whatever is needed to work on to be able to move forward. I have a deep belief that everyone has a great potential regardless of their past, and I want to be the one that helps guide them through that journey.
(865) 346-4095 View (865) 346-4095
Photo of Reico Hopewell, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, QCS,, SAP, CAADAC, NCAC I, LADAC 2
Reico Hopewell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, QCS,, SAP, CAADAC, NCAC I, LADAC 2
Knoxville, TN 37918
One of my goals for a client is for them to gain self-efficacy for a self-directed plan of recovery.
One of my goals for a client is for them to gain self-efficacy for a self-directed plan of recovery.
(865) 213-9114 View (865) 213-9114
Douglas Alan Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISAC, ACHPSW, CAGCS, CCTP
Knoxville, TN 37918
Douglas Bates, LCSW, LISAC, ACHP-SW, CAGCS, CCTP, APHSW-C, FT, C-DBT is a licensed clinical social worker/licensed independent substance abuse counselor with multiple certifications in Hospice & Palliative Care, Grief & Bereavement, Trauma & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. He has worked in end-of-life/grief/loss and addiction/trauma throughout his 27 years as a clinician. Doug received his Bachelor's in Psychology earning a concentration in Gerontology from Carson-Newman College and then earned a Masters of Science in Social Work with a focus on Clinical Social Work and received further recognition in Thanatology at UT Knoxville
Douglas Bates, LCSW, LISAC, ACHP-SW, CAGCS, CCTP, APHSW-C, FT, C-DBT is a licensed clinical social worker/licensed independent substance abuse counselor with multiple certifications in Hospice & Palliative Care, Grief & Bereavement, Trauma & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. He has worked in end-of-life/grief/loss and addiction/trauma throughout his 27 years as a clinician. Doug received his Bachelor's in Psychology earning a concentration in Gerontology from Carson-Newman College and then earned a Masters of Science in Social Work with a focus on Clinical Social Work and received further recognition in Thanatology at UT Knoxville
(865) 830-3844 View (865) 830-3844
Photo of Samantha Dickens, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Samantha Dickens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Sonder Behavioral Health. I provide support to individuals and families, focusing on the unique challenges faced by children, young adults, and those struggling with self-esteem issues. My areas of focus include helping clients prioritize tasks, manage ADHD, find a healthy work-life balance, overcome high-performance challenges, rebuild their lives after divorce, and explore LGBTQ+ matters. I strive to create a nurturing environment for those dealing with PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and confidence issues.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Sonder Behavioral Health. I provide support to individuals and families, focusing on the unique challenges faced by children, young adults, and those struggling with self-esteem issues. My areas of focus include helping clients prioritize tasks, manage ADHD, find a healthy work-life balance, overcome high-performance challenges, rebuild their lives after divorce, and explore LGBTQ+ matters. I strive to create a nurturing environment for those dealing with PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and confidence issues.
(865) 213-9145 View (865) 213-9145
Photo of Shannon Wilson, Psychologist, PhD
Shannon Wilson
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I earned my PhD from the University of Tennessee, and am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have received specialized training in many areas, including evaluations, hypnosis, trauma recovery, depression, and anxiety, behavioral issues and family therapy. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, and have specific training in the treatment of law enforcement officers and emergency responders. I do a great deal of work with families and children going through divorce. My therapeutic style is generally cognitive-behavioral, but varies from case to case depending on the needs of the client. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and respected.
I earned my PhD from the University of Tennessee, and am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have received specialized training in many areas, including evaluations, hypnosis, trauma recovery, depression, and anxiety, behavioral issues and family therapy. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, and have specific training in the treatment of law enforcement officers and emergency responders. I do a great deal of work with families and children going through divorce. My therapeutic style is generally cognitive-behavioral, but varies from case to case depending on the needs of the client. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and respected.
(865) 264-3107 View (865) 264-3107
Photo of Jeffrey Scarbrough, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jeffrey Scarbrough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
With over 16 years of experience in the field, I have helped many families, individuals, adolescents, and couples navigate difficult seasons in their lives. I offer faith-based, practical, personalized therapy to my clients and truly care about each person that comes to me for help. I know it’s not easy to reach out, and I consider it a privilege to be chosen by my clients.
With over 16 years of experience in the field, I have helped many families, individuals, adolescents, and couples navigate difficult seasons in their lives. I offer faith-based, practical, personalized therapy to my clients and truly care about each person that comes to me for help. I know it’s not easy to reach out, and I consider it a privilege to be chosen by my clients.
(865) 344-2185 View (865) 344-2185
Photo of Rachel Geren, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Rachel Geren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Life is both wonderful and full of struggles. Each person in this world has a unique experience which can sometimes prove to be overwhelming. I feel that building a connection with a safe, qualified, and compassionate person can help one navigate through life's obstacles as well as celebrate in times of joy. I work with people collaboratively to help guide them towards their own goals.
Life is both wonderful and full of struggles. Each person in this world has a unique experience which can sometimes prove to be overwhelming. I feel that building a connection with a safe, qualified, and compassionate person can help one navigate through life's obstacles as well as celebrate in times of joy. I work with people collaboratively to help guide them towards their own goals.
(865) 800-6279 View (865) 800-6279
Photo of Megan Hayes, Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Megan Hayes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feeling like it will never end? Are you feeling so weighed down by trauma and pain that you are unable to enjoy your daily life? Are you struggling with executive dysfunction and life/task management? Maybe you’re tired of looking around and seeing others happy and wondering what is wrong with you. Maybe you have a neurodivergent brain, and have no idea how to thrive in the adversity that comes along with it. Maybe you've realized your spiritual belief system no longer serves you, and you feel lost with no direction.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feeling like it will never end? Are you feeling so weighed down by trauma and pain that you are unable to enjoy your daily life? Are you struggling with executive dysfunction and life/task management? Maybe you’re tired of looking around and seeing others happy and wondering what is wrong with you. Maybe you have a neurodivergent brain, and have no idea how to thrive in the adversity that comes along with it. Maybe you've realized your spiritual belief system no longer serves you, and you feel lost with no direction.
(865) 424-2201 View (865) 424-2201
Photo of Julie Lamb, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Julie Lamb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
You may be afraid of reaching out and asking for help. Maybe you think your situation is hopeless. You could be worried about how you will be perceived if you come to counseling. Deciding to come to therapy is not always easy and it is not always comfortable, but I consider it an honor when my clients allow me to walk alongside them through difficult times and feelings. I seek to provide a judgment free, warm, open and honest office environment. I enjoy celebrating and focusing on small victories with my clients and believe that change is possible.
You may be afraid of reaching out and asking for help. Maybe you think your situation is hopeless. You could be worried about how you will be perceived if you come to counseling. Deciding to come to therapy is not always easy and it is not always comfortable, but I consider it an honor when my clients allow me to walk alongside them through difficult times and feelings. I seek to provide a judgment free, warm, open and honest office environment. I enjoy celebrating and focusing on small victories with my clients and believe that change is possible.
(865) 217-0986 View (865) 217-0986
Photo of Lizzie Nichols, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP(T)
Lizzie Nichols
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP(T)
Knoxville, TN 37918
Are you exploring your LGBTQIA+ identity and feeling unsupported? Are relationship and intimacy issues leaving you frustrated and disconnected? Maybe you’re dealing with sexual dysfunction and wondering if it will ever get better. Are attachment issues or substance abuse creating barriers in your life? Perhaps family dynamics from your past are weighing you down, or you're navigating the challenges of neurodivergence and feeling overwhelmed. If you’re tired of feeling stuck and searching for a way forward, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to create a path to a more fulfilling, authentic life.
Are you exploring your LGBTQIA+ identity and feeling unsupported? Are relationship and intimacy issues leaving you frustrated and disconnected? Maybe you’re dealing with sexual dysfunction and wondering if it will ever get better. Are attachment issues or substance abuse creating barriers in your life? Perhaps family dynamics from your past are weighing you down, or you're navigating the challenges of neurodivergence and feeling overwhelmed. If you’re tired of feeling stuck and searching for a way forward, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to create a path to a more fulfilling, authentic life.
(865) 830-3167 View (865) 830-3167
Photo of Jamie Marshall, Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Jamie Marshall
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Life is a natural ebb and flow. However, when we get stuck in the ebb we can begin to develop patterns of being that do not serve our physical and emotional wellbeing; this can be a difficult place from which to emerge. The decision to seek guidance during these times is a bold act of self-compassion. We have incredible internal resources and an inherent capacity for healing. My role is to help guide clients back to connection with their authentic selves and others through the process of curious exploration, loving-kindness, and present moment awareness.
Life is a natural ebb and flow. However, when we get stuck in the ebb we can begin to develop patterns of being that do not serve our physical and emotional wellbeing; this can be a difficult place from which to emerge. The decision to seek guidance during these times is a bold act of self-compassion. We have incredible internal resources and an inherent capacity for healing. My role is to help guide clients back to connection with their authentic selves and others through the process of curious exploration, loving-kindness, and present moment awareness.
(865) 213-9156 View (865) 213-9156
Photo of Ashley Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS, MEd
Ashley Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS, MEd
Knoxville, TN 37918
Coming to counseling can be a scary hurdle to cross. Here you are! I'm so proud of you already. Together, we can work on healing from trauma, processing grief and loss, building your relationship with your partner, or learning how to respond to others better. Compassion, patience, and kindness will always be present when you walk into my office. You will put in the work both at office and at home to continue to strive to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
Coming to counseling can be a scary hurdle to cross. Here you are! I'm so proud of you already. Together, we can work on healing from trauma, processing grief and loss, building your relationship with your partner, or learning how to respond to others better. Compassion, patience, and kindness will always be present when you walk into my office. You will put in the work both at office and at home to continue to strive to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
(865) 830-3317 View (865) 830-3317
Photo of Luke Lanzoni, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, MHSP(t)
Luke Lanzoni
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, MHSP(t)
Knoxville, TN 37918
I enjoy working with folks who are navigating neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, & OCD) anxiety, depression, family enmeshment, complex relational trauma, entrepreneurial stress, religious trauma, and compulsive or addictive sexual behavior (including pornography viewing). I see adults and adolescents aged 12 and up. My own mental health journey eventually led me to a desire to aid others, obtaining a Master of Arts in Counseling with a focus in Clinical Mental Health. I fully believe in meeting you wherever you are, without judgment, and I strive to create a therapeutic space that is both welcoming and safe.
I enjoy working with folks who are navigating neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, & OCD) anxiety, depression, family enmeshment, complex relational trauma, entrepreneurial stress, religious trauma, and compulsive or addictive sexual behavior (including pornography viewing). I see adults and adolescents aged 12 and up. My own mental health journey eventually led me to a desire to aid others, obtaining a Master of Arts in Counseling with a focus in Clinical Mental Health. I fully believe in meeting you wherever you are, without judgment, and I strive to create a therapeutic space that is both welcoming and safe.
(865) 674-4024 View (865) 674-4024
Photo of Delaney Spillman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Delaney Spillman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
If you are feeling lost or stuck in the midst of life transitions, struggling with challenging relationships, or seeking deeper healing from past trauma, rediscovering purpose and joy in your life is possible. I offer a holistic approach that goes beyond conventional therapy skills to address the root of complicated emotions and behaviors. Together, we can find meaning in the midst of darkness and uncertainty and move towards lasting change and assurance in who you were created to be.
If you are feeling lost or stuck in the midst of life transitions, struggling with challenging relationships, or seeking deeper healing from past trauma, rediscovering purpose and joy in your life is possible. I offer a holistic approach that goes beyond conventional therapy skills to address the root of complicated emotions and behaviors. Together, we can find meaning in the midst of darkness and uncertainty and move towards lasting change and assurance in who you were created to be.
(865) 324-0747 View (865) 324-0747
Photo of Nina Beloni, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Nina Beloni
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Knoxville, TN 37918
Now offering walking sessions in William Hastie Natural Area on Mondays and Fridays! Do you find yourself getting in your own way? I can help you figure out why and work with you to develop tools that will help you cope with challenges and start living the life you want. I work from a holistic perspective, helping clients explore all aspects of their life and facilitating change in the areas that are ripe for growth. I especially love working with athletes and clients with ADHD who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, perfectionism, life transitions, self-esteem, or disordered eating.
Now offering walking sessions in William Hastie Natural Area on Mondays and Fridays! Do you find yourself getting in your own way? I can help you figure out why and work with you to develop tools that will help you cope with challenges and start living the life you want. I work from a holistic perspective, helping clients explore all aspects of their life and facilitating change in the areas that are ripe for growth. I especially love working with athletes and clients with ADHD who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, perfectionism, life transitions, self-esteem, or disordered eating.
(865) 413-5796 View (865) 413-5796
Photo of Donna Mitchell - Covenant Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC., LMSW
Covenant Counseling & Consultation Services (CCCS) is a Christian agency whose mission is to provide counseling, assessments, treatment planning, implementation, and evaluation, case management, and training. We offer at-risk youth and families a holistic approach to mental, emotional, spiritual and behavioral needs with The Lord Jesus Christ as the only true evidence-based provider. Our services include Alcohol and Drug, Grief, Anger Management, Parenting, and Family-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Services with a foundation of faith-based practices.
Covenant Counseling & Consultation Services (CCCS) is a Christian agency whose mission is to provide counseling, assessments, treatment planning, implementation, and evaluation, case management, and training. We offer at-risk youth and families a holistic approach to mental, emotional, spiritual and behavioral needs with The Lord Jesus Christ as the only true evidence-based provider. Our services include Alcohol and Drug, Grief, Anger Management, Parenting, and Family-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Services with a foundation of faith-based practices.
(865) 940-0720 View (865) 940-0720
Photo of Joshua Coy Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Joshua Coy Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle
I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle
(865) 351-6121 View (865) 351-6121
1

See more therapy options for 37918

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 37918

60+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 37918 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
83% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Stress
67% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 37918 see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 37918?

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.