Photo of Ruth Ellerbusch, MA, LPC, EMDRII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruth Ellerbusch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDRII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241
I have specialized in the healing of trauma for the last 31 years through individual, group, couples work. My expertise is EMDR. After 18 years of using this tool I am still amazed at how profoundly and quickly clients heal from tremendous pain and struggles. EMDR is often considered to be used only and primarily for a discreet trauma like a car accident. In fact, however, EMDR is a tool that incorporates how the brain processes information every night during REM sleep. Since our brains have REM daily, EMDR is a magnificient way to address most of life's problems.
I have specialized in the healing of trauma for the last 31 years through individual, group, couples work. My expertise is EMDR. After 18 years of using this tool I am still amazed at how profoundly and quickly clients heal from tremendous pain and struggles. EMDR is often considered to be used only and primarily for a discreet trauma like a car accident. In fact, however, EMDR is a tool that incorporates how the brain processes information every night during REM sleep. Since our brains have REM daily, EMDR is a magnificient way to address most of life's problems.
(513) 280-8856 View (513) 280-8856
Photo of Christina Huster, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Huster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241  (Online Only)
Her specialty is empowering clients through therapy providing a nurturing and safe environment to explore difficult feelings, promote growth, facilitate behavior changes, and improve relationships. Christina has experience providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) groups, mental health assessments, and individual therapy in the Cincinnati area. Her passion is working with children and young adults in which she pulls from her experience working with youth in foster care and school-based day treatment.
Her specialty is empowering clients through therapy providing a nurturing and safe environment to explore difficult feelings, promote growth, facilitate behavior changes, and improve relationships. Christina has experience providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) groups, mental health assessments, and individual therapy in the Cincinnati area. Her passion is working with children and young adults in which she pulls from her experience working with youth in foster care and school-based day treatment.
(513) 790-5695 View (513) 790-5695
Photo of Nicole Kreutzer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Kreutzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sharonville, OH 45241
With a background in yoga, Pilates, and essential oils, I embarked on a journey to integrate holistic wellness practices into mental health counseling. My passion for holistic healing led me to pursue a career as a holistic health coach, followed by a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
With a background in yoga, Pilates, and essential oils, I embarked on a journey to integrate holistic wellness practices into mental health counseling. My passion for holistic healing led me to pursue a career as a holistic health coach, followed by a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
(513) 597-0957 View (513) 597-0957
Photo of Mary McGrath, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary McGrath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sharonville, OH 45241
I am a licensed mental health therapist in Ohio and registered Interstate Telehealth Social Worker in Delaware. I have over 30 years of clinical experience, and am currently focusing my efforts on work with teens and adults. If you are experiencing social and emotional difficulties, or life is feeling challenging, or "not quite right", I invite you to contact me to decide if therapy would make sense for you at this moment. I have specialized training in trauma treatment and ADHD in adults, and use a variety of interventions, including expressive arts and EMDR, to help tap into unexplored issues and strengths.
I am a licensed mental health therapist in Ohio and registered Interstate Telehealth Social Worker in Delaware. I have over 30 years of clinical experience, and am currently focusing my efforts on work with teens and adults. If you are experiencing social and emotional difficulties, or life is feeling challenging, or "not quite right", I invite you to contact me to decide if therapy would make sense for you at this moment. I have specialized training in trauma treatment and ADHD in adults, and use a variety of interventions, including expressive arts and EMDR, to help tap into unexplored issues and strengths.
(513) 813-5257 View (513) 813-5257
Photo of Amy Hoyle - Counseling Center of Cincinnati, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Center of Cincinnati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Are you tired of suffering? We specialize in treating mood disorders, bad habits, relationship problems, insomnia, and grief. We use an empathetic. non-judgmental, and data driven approach to monitor progress. Our approach with families and relationships is to improve communication and empathy leading to more loving relationships. We are a teaching practice and are proud to offer lower fee options for people out of network.
Are you tired of suffering? We specialize in treating mood disorders, bad habits, relationship problems, insomnia, and grief. We use an empathetic. non-judgmental, and data driven approach to monitor progress. Our approach with families and relationships is to improve communication and empathy leading to more loving relationships. We are a teaching practice and are proud to offer lower fee options for people out of network.
(513) 434-1989 View (513) 434-1989
Photo of Aaron Hibbard, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Hibbard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
In today’s world we can get so caught up in all of the images that flash in front of our faces or noises that flood our ears that we forget to look inward to take care of ourselves as human beings. I hope to provide a collaborative space in which the people I work with feel heard, understood, and cared for. The way that I approach counseling is from the perspective that each individual is connected to other individuals in some way. In turn we all affect and are affected by one another. That perspective really is obvious in marriages, couples, and families. However, I see those effects when I work with individual clients as well.
In today’s world we can get so caught up in all of the images that flash in front of our faces or noises that flood our ears that we forget to look inward to take care of ourselves as human beings. I hope to provide a collaborative space in which the people I work with feel heard, understood, and cared for. The way that I approach counseling is from the perspective that each individual is connected to other individuals in some way. In turn we all affect and are affected by one another. That perspective really is obvious in marriages, couples, and families. However, I see those effects when I work with individual clients as well.
(513) 434-6365 View (513) 434-6365
Photo of Karen Jones, LPCC-S, LICDC, Counselor
Karen Jones
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sharonville, OH 45241
Life can be hard and overwhelming sometimes and can leave us unsure of where to turn for peace of mind. It's so easy to fall into a trap of feeling inadequate to face life's challenges when it seems that everyone else has it all together. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse issues, codependency, mood disorders, grief, or self-esteem concerns, there is hope for you.
Life can be hard and overwhelming sometimes and can leave us unsure of where to turn for peace of mind. It's so easy to fall into a trap of feeling inadequate to face life's challenges when it seems that everyone else has it all together. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse issues, codependency, mood disorders, grief, or self-esteem concerns, there is hope for you.
(513) 982-5482 View (513) 982-5482
Photo of Wendy Allen Long, MA, LSC, CT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Wendy Allen Long
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LSC, CT
Verified Verified
Sharonville, OH 45241
My ideal client is dealing with trauma, anxiety, stress, or depression and seeking a supportive listening ear and help breaking free from distressing patterns. You might be a caregiver, a busy parent, or navigating transitions, grief or relationships. Your needs include finding emotional balance, understanding triggers, and learning tools for resilience. Together, we’ll work to reduce symptoms, build self-compassion, and develop healthier coping skills. Ultimately, you’re looking for guidance that empowers you to make sustainable, positive change in your life, and I’m here to help you achieve that.
My ideal client is dealing with trauma, anxiety, stress, or depression and seeking a supportive listening ear and help breaking free from distressing patterns. You might be a caregiver, a busy parent, or navigating transitions, grief or relationships. Your needs include finding emotional balance, understanding triggers, and learning tools for resilience. Together, we’ll work to reduce symptoms, build self-compassion, and develop healthier coping skills. Ultimately, you’re looking for guidance that empowers you to make sustainable, positive change in your life, and I’m here to help you achieve that.
(513) 995-7774 View (513) 995-7774
Photo of Keri Perdrix, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keri Perdrix
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharonville, OH 45241
My ideal client is someone overwhelmed by life’s challenges—whether they are an individual coping with trauma, a couple facing communication breakdowns, or a family trapped in conflict. They may feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward, but they seek healing and growth. Their goal is to find peace, feel understood and supported, and develop the tools to manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and build meaningful connections. They want to reclaim stability and strength in their lives, driven by a deep desire to heal and thrive.
My ideal client is someone overwhelmed by life’s challenges—whether they are an individual coping with trauma, a couple facing communication breakdowns, or a family trapped in conflict. They may feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward, but they seek healing and growth. Their goal is to find peace, feel understood and supported, and develop the tools to manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and build meaningful connections. They want to reclaim stability and strength in their lives, driven by a deep desire to heal and thrive.
(513) 613-3550 View (513) 613-3550
Photo of Hannah Woods, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sharonville, OH 45241
Waitlist for new clients
Ever feel like you get so stuck in your own head that you can't get out? I hope to help those that are struggling with feeling stuck in thoughts, behavior patterns, and past experiences. I am passionate about working with survivors of trauma and individuals that struggle with OCD, anxiety, and/or LGBTQ+ concerns. If your feelings, thoughts, or behaviors confuse you or cause distress, I may be a good counselor to serve as a professional support.
Ever feel like you get so stuck in your own head that you can't get out? I hope to help those that are struggling with feeling stuck in thoughts, behavior patterns, and past experiences. I am passionate about working with survivors of trauma and individuals that struggle with OCD, anxiety, and/or LGBTQ+ concerns. If your feelings, thoughts, or behaviors confuse you or cause distress, I may be a good counselor to serve as a professional support.
(513) 960-7372 View (513) 960-7372
Photo of Karla Tolbert, PhD, LPCCS
Karla Tolbert
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCCS
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Let's face it, life can feel really dark at times. Everyone struggles with unwanted thoughts and feelings that seem to plague them. Everyone struggles with relationship conflict at some point in their lives. Most people believe that they are alone in their struggles, and they often believe that there is no answer and no way out. All of us want happy and peaceful lives with safe and nurturing relationships, but we often don't know how to create this kind of life. The good news is that these things are within your reach, if you are willing and ready to work hard to challenge yourself.
Let's face it, life can feel really dark at times. Everyone struggles with unwanted thoughts and feelings that seem to plague them. Everyone struggles with relationship conflict at some point in their lives. Most people believe that they are alone in their struggles, and they often believe that there is no answer and no way out. All of us want happy and peaceful lives with safe and nurturing relationships, but we often don't know how to create this kind of life. The good news is that these things are within your reach, if you are willing and ready to work hard to challenge yourself.
(513) 951-6607 View (513) 951-6607
Photo of Erin Thomas, MA, IMFT-S, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sharonville, OH 45241
You and your partner used to feel connected and have fun together, but lately, you experience more tension than fun. More of your fights seem to linger or fester, and communication in general is off. The distance between you keeps growing, and you have started to feel alone in your marriage. It seems like your partner doesn’t see you sometimes, let alone know what you want or need. Admittedly, it’s hard to know what you want or need when you are constantly taking care of the people around you. You miss your partner and you want to have a better relationship together, you just can't figure out how to get there.
You and your partner used to feel connected and have fun together, but lately, you experience more tension than fun. More of your fights seem to linger or fester, and communication in general is off. The distance between you keeps growing, and you have started to feel alone in your marriage. It seems like your partner doesn’t see you sometimes, let alone know what you want or need. Admittedly, it’s hard to know what you want or need when you are constantly taking care of the people around you. You miss your partner and you want to have a better relationship together, you just can't figure out how to get there.
(513) 654-2238 View (513) 654-2238
Photo of Roxann Tillinghast, Counselor
Roxann Tillinghast
Counselor
Not Verified Not Verified
Sharonville, OH 45241
Not accepting new clients
I believe in ALL people. I believe opportunities for growth and development are all around us waiting for us to see the potential in ourselves. Everyone has unique gifting's to offer the world. When people can take their areas of hurt and trauma to move them forward they can live in their purpose and define who they are versus letting our past define our lives. I believe in embracing our journeys--utilizing all that we've experienced to refine who we are. Living a life of purpose brings meaning to ourselves and our relationships.
I believe in ALL people. I believe opportunities for growth and development are all around us waiting for us to see the potential in ourselves. Everyone has unique gifting's to offer the world. When people can take their areas of hurt and trauma to move them forward they can live in their purpose and define who they are versus letting our past define our lives. I believe in embracing our journeys--utilizing all that we've experienced to refine who we are. Living a life of purpose brings meaning to ourselves and our relationships.
(513) 434-6532 View (513) 434-6532
Photo of Candice N. Crowley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candice N. Crowley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Candicely is a therapy space created for those ready to hear hard truths about themselves, engage in uncomfortable conversations, and come to terms with difficult realities. Candicely helps individuals break out of the boxes that limit their ability to reach their full potential and live a fulfilled life. Candicely focuses on the present, understands the past, but rejects the notion that the past has to control or define the future. Candicely offers individual counseling, life coaching, support services for blended families and co-parenting, couples counseling, support for life transitions, student services, & Christian counseling.
Candicely is a therapy space created for those ready to hear hard truths about themselves, engage in uncomfortable conversations, and come to terms with difficult realities. Candicely helps individuals break out of the boxes that limit their ability to reach their full potential and live a fulfilled life. Candicely focuses on the present, understands the past, but rejects the notion that the past has to control or define the future. Candicely offers individual counseling, life coaching, support services for blended families and co-parenting, couples counseling, support for life transitions, student services, & Christian counseling.
(513) 438-3920 x11 View (513) 438-3920 x11
Photo of Chad Ricks, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chad Ricks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sharonville, OH 45241
As a counselor, I often encounter hurting people who need help healing their emotional and relational challenges. People often get stuck in life whether it be their thinking or behaviors that keep them trapped and unable to move forward in living the life they want. We all face challenges in life that we need help in navigating that next step. Relationships can be difficult to navigate sometimes and we just want to know how to break free from the cycle we are in so that we can enjoy each other and life again without the stress of the past and concerns of the future.
As a counselor, I often encounter hurting people who need help healing their emotional and relational challenges. People often get stuck in life whether it be their thinking or behaviors that keep them trapped and unable to move forward in living the life they want. We all face challenges in life that we need help in navigating that next step. Relationships can be difficult to navigate sometimes and we just want to know how to break free from the cycle we are in so that we can enjoy each other and life again without the stress of the past and concerns of the future.
(513) 960-7125 View (513) 960-7125
Photo of Rachele Elizabeth Smith, CDCA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Rachele Elizabeth Smith
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CDCA
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45241
Healing from a traumatic experience can be a long, difficult journey. I started working in addiction medicine in 2011 and am dedicated to helping patients in their journey. I am driven to help patients learn coping skills and strategies to help them improve their chances of long term sobriety. Every day is a new beginning and a chance at a better life, let us help you make that change!
Healing from a traumatic experience can be a long, difficult journey. I started working in addiction medicine in 2011 and am dedicated to helping patients in their journey. I am driven to help patients learn coping skills and strategies to help them improve their chances of long term sobriety. Every day is a new beginning and a chance at a better life, let us help you make that change!
(513) 434-6856 View (513) 434-6856
Photo of Colleen Brown, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Most people probably think that you’ve got it all together, but inside you’re feeling pretty lost. It’s time for some changes. But how? You manage so much - a career, relationships, family, finances - the list is endless. Maybe it’s time to focus on what YOU need, too. Mental health counseling can help you feel more present in your life, heal from past hurts, change some of your thinking, and learn to trust your instincts. You will be met with empathy and support - not judgment - in a soothing therapeutic space. I believe deeply in your innate ability to heal, grow, & transform your life. Change is hard, but it’s also very possible.
Most people probably think that you’ve got it all together, but inside you’re feeling pretty lost. It’s time for some changes. But how? You manage so much - a career, relationships, family, finances - the list is endless. Maybe it’s time to focus on what YOU need, too. Mental health counseling can help you feel more present in your life, heal from past hurts, change some of your thinking, and learn to trust your instincts. You will be met with empathy and support - not judgment - in a soothing therapeutic space. I believe deeply in your innate ability to heal, grow, & transform your life. Change is hard, but it’s also very possible.
(513) 654-5370 View (513) 654-5370
Photo of Amy Stenger-Sullivan, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor
Amy Stenger-Sullivan
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Many of us seek counseling to achieve change in our lives. I believe that change occurs most easily in the presence of unconditional acceptance. From this belief, I offer a space to create a genuine and reliable therapeutic relationship. I see this as the foundation for growth and healing. Based on your concerns, worldview and preferences, I offer methods and tools for change and healing. I'm currently a trainer for the Deb Dana and the Polyvagal Theory.
Many of us seek counseling to achieve change in our lives. I believe that change occurs most easily in the presence of unconditional acceptance. From this belief, I offer a space to create a genuine and reliable therapeutic relationship. I see this as the foundation for growth and healing. Based on your concerns, worldview and preferences, I offer methods and tools for change and healing. I'm currently a trainer for the Deb Dana and the Polyvagal Theory.
(513) 318-4574 View (513) 318-4574
Photo of Jasany Jenkins Lisw-S Asdcs, MSSA, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasany Jenkins Lisw-S Asdcs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Ash, OH 45241  (Online Only)
Do you feel lost, as if others have some sort of cheat code to life that no one passed to you? Maybe you've always felt different than most, leaving you to question your identity and intuition. I've been there and even continue to do the work that allows me to feel grounded in my identity, and befriend my authentic self. At 31, all my quirky traits and unpopular opinions finally made sense, once I learned about and embraced my neurodivergent brain. There is no specific blueprint on who to be or how to live. We all have varying identities that make life exciting, challenging, and rewarding.
Do you feel lost, as if others have some sort of cheat code to life that no one passed to you? Maybe you've always felt different than most, leaving you to question your identity and intuition. I've been there and even continue to do the work that allows me to feel grounded in my identity, and befriend my authentic self. At 31, all my quirky traits and unpopular opinions finally made sense, once I learned about and embraced my neurodivergent brain. There is no specific blueprint on who to be or how to live. We all have varying identities that make life exciting, challenging, and rewarding.
(216) 279-6861 View (216) 279-6861
Photo of Linda M Cramer, MA, LPCC-S
Linda M Cramer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
I love working with individuals and couples who are seeking ways to improve the way they experience life. Sometimes we can get stuck in an ineffective pattern in our relationships or just the way we manage stress and the obstacles life throws at all of us. Hearing peoples stories is essential in putting all the pieces together. I am a skilled and compassionate listener and would love to help you figure out how to achieve your goals. I've worked effectively with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma and marital conflicts.
I love working with individuals and couples who are seeking ways to improve the way they experience life. Sometimes we can get stuck in an ineffective pattern in our relationships or just the way we manage stress and the obstacles life throws at all of us. Hearing peoples stories is essential in putting all the pieces together. I am a skilled and compassionate listener and would love to help you figure out how to achieve your goals. I've worked effectively with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma and marital conflicts.
(513) 506-9727 View (513) 506-9727

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 45241

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in 45241 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
68% Trauma and PTSD
58% Self Esteem
55% Grief
55% Coping Skills
50% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
78% Other
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 45241 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 45241?

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.