Therapists in 49085

Photo of Sandy Dennis, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Sandy Dennis
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
I'm a Psychotherapist with 25 years experience offering psychotherapy and coaching services at Thrive Psychology in St. Jospeh, MI. I practice client centered psychotherapy with experience in family therapy, groups, women, men, adolescents and diversity. My main focus is in supporting my clients to develop into the healthy functioning individuals in their personal and professional lives. I have certification in IMAGO relationship therapy and EMDR therapy.
I'm a Psychotherapist with 25 years experience offering psychotherapy and coaching services at Thrive Psychology in St. Jospeh, MI. I practice client centered psychotherapy with experience in family therapy, groups, women, men, adolescents and diversity. My main focus is in supporting my clients to develop into the healthy functioning individuals in their personal and professional lives. I have certification in IMAGO relationship therapy and EMDR therapy.
(269) 509-4532 View (269) 509-4532
Photo of Mitzi Kalin - Thrive Psychology, Psychologist, PsyD
Thrive Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Welcome! We’re so glad you’re here. Therapy is a deeply meaningful journey—a safe and supportive space where you can discover clarity, build resilience, and discover the direction that fits your goals. Through genuine connection, we begin to restore our sense of self and nurture healthier, more fulfilling relationships. With this renewed balance and stability, new energy and inspiration emerge, making room for personal growth and transformation.
Welcome! We’re so glad you’re here. Therapy is a deeply meaningful journey—a safe and supportive space where you can discover clarity, build resilience, and discover the direction that fits your goals. Through genuine connection, we begin to restore our sense of self and nurture healthier, more fulfilling relationships. With this renewed balance and stability, new energy and inspiration emerge, making room for personal growth and transformation.
(269) 580-8955 View (269) 580-8955
Photo of Don-Nee Elizabeth German, Psychologist, PhD
Don-Nee Elizabeth German
Psychologist, PhD
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
By giving respectful attention and proven psychotherapeutic methods, change is possible! Helping to heal mind, spirit and body by positive, empowering, experienced interventions is the heart of my work. With over 30 years of working with clients, I have been effective in promoting healing, change, wellness, happiness and wholeness for children through senior citizens. Helping you to set specific goals, explore the possibilities of choices and assisting you to achieve your goals as an individual, couple, family or group, is a service I readily provide.
By giving respectful attention and proven psychotherapeutic methods, change is possible! Helping to heal mind, spirit and body by positive, empowering, experienced interventions is the heart of my work. With over 30 years of working with clients, I have been effective in promoting healing, change, wellness, happiness and wholeness for children through senior citizens. Helping you to set specific goals, explore the possibilities of choices and assisting you to achieve your goals as an individual, couple, family or group, is a service I readily provide.
(269) 405-4586 View (269) 405-4586
Photo of Shade Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Shade Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
My goal is to provide you with a straightforward, enriching therapy experience that results in meaningful change. I've helped people improve their marriage or family relationships, thrive in their schooling or career, and cope with anxiety, depression or past trauma. I believe that clients who get the most out of therapy are reflective, curious, honest, patient, and kind to themselves as they navigate the path to self-improvement. My approach is informed by psychological theory as well as two decades of working as a creative professional and university instructor. My style works best with adults and late adolescents (16+).
My goal is to provide you with a straightforward, enriching therapy experience that results in meaningful change. I've helped people improve their marriage or family relationships, thrive in their schooling or career, and cope with anxiety, depression or past trauma. I believe that clients who get the most out of therapy are reflective, curious, honest, patient, and kind to themselves as they navigate the path to self-improvement. My approach is informed by psychological theory as well as two decades of working as a creative professional and university instructor. My style works best with adults and late adolescents (16+).
(269) 390-8647 View (269) 390-8647
Photo of Carlos Tavarez, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LLPC
Carlos Tavarez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LLPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Navigating life’s transitions, relationship dynamics, or the impacts of past experiences in an authentic way is a difficult yet potentially transformative journey. I believe authenticity involves fostering the courage to explore personal values, beliefs, and emotions in relation to who your most real, authentic self is. In the therapeutic journey together, my passion is to learn with you what the right and most practical tools are for you in order to help bring about new insights that promote a positive change and a greater sense of well-being.
Navigating life’s transitions, relationship dynamics, or the impacts of past experiences in an authentic way is a difficult yet potentially transformative journey. I believe authenticity involves fostering the courage to explore personal values, beliefs, and emotions in relation to who your most real, authentic self is. In the therapeutic journey together, my passion is to learn with you what the right and most practical tools are for you in order to help bring about new insights that promote a positive change and a greater sense of well-being.
(269) 280-2711 View (269) 280-2711
Photo of Edwin R. Vergara-Mego - Donarski Center for Mental Health Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Donarski Center for Mental Health Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Donarski Center for Mental Health Counseling is ready to get you back on track to a healthier, happier you! Our private group practice offers residents of Southwest Michigan opportunities to engage in traditional and online (telehealth) services with an office location in St. Joseph. We are a diverse team of professional providers with a wide range of training and specialties
Donarski Center for Mental Health Counseling is ready to get you back on track to a healthier, happier you! Our private group practice offers residents of Southwest Michigan opportunities to engage in traditional and online (telehealth) services with an office location in St. Joseph. We are a diverse team of professional providers with a wide range of training and specialties
(269) 443-1072 View (269) 443-1072
Photo of Courtney Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC
Courtney Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space so that when they are ready, individuals can feel comfortable opening up about their emotions and experiences. In addition to talk therapy, I also offer art therapy as a way to engage the mind and body on a deeper level. I take a nonjudgmental stance and view therapy as a collaborative process. I believe you are the expert on your own life. Together, we will honor your differences, tap into your strengths, and work towards change that is meaningful and important to you.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space so that when they are ready, individuals can feel comfortable opening up about their emotions and experiences. In addition to talk therapy, I also offer art therapy as a way to engage the mind and body on a deeper level. I take a nonjudgmental stance and view therapy as a collaborative process. I believe you are the expert on your own life. Together, we will honor your differences, tap into your strengths, and work towards change that is meaningful and important to you.
(616) 449-3112 View (616) 449-3112
Photo of Shervin Tehrani-Rad, Psychologist, PsyD, MPH, HSP
Shervin Tehrani-Rad
Psychologist, PsyD, MPH, HSP
1 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Dr. Shervin Tehrani-Rad is a Clinical Neuropsychologist and psychotherapist at Psychiatric & Psychological Specialties. Dr. Shervin’s main interests lie with adult neuropsychological assessment related to both neurological and psychiatric etiologies. He is also keen on acquired brain injury and sports-related concussion. His interest in and passion for assessment led him to focus on attaining a significant amount of training in this area. Throughout his career, Dr. Shervin has received numerous awards and certificates from esteemed institutions for his academic achievements and leadership abilities.
Dr. Shervin Tehrani-Rad is a Clinical Neuropsychologist and psychotherapist at Psychiatric & Psychological Specialties. Dr. Shervin’s main interests lie with adult neuropsychological assessment related to both neurological and psychiatric etiologies. He is also keen on acquired brain injury and sports-related concussion. His interest in and passion for assessment led him to focus on attaining a significant amount of training in this area. Throughout his career, Dr. Shervin has received numerous awards and certificates from esteemed institutions for his academic achievements and leadership abilities.
(269) 247-4622 View (269) 247-4622
Photo of Richelle Kuriata, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Richelle Kuriata
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
As a dedicated and compassionate professional in the field of mental health, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals who have experienced trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach, emphasizing collaboration and empowerment, to help individuals rebuild their trust in themselves and others. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and life transitions. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions such as EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT and Traumaplay Therapy and have experience working with children, teens, and adults.
As a dedicated and compassionate professional in the field of mental health, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals who have experienced trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach, emphasizing collaboration and empowerment, to help individuals rebuild their trust in themselves and others. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and life transitions. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions such as EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT and Traumaplay Therapy and have experience working with children, teens, and adults.
(269) 586-9151 View (269) 586-9151
Photo of Kaylin Ziebarth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Kaylin Ziebarth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
My favorite aspect of working with children, families, and adolescents involves getting to know and develop relationships with every individual. Helping an individuals and their families navigate difficult situations and celebrate positive growth in therapy and everyday situations is such a unique and positive aspect of being a part of a family’s therapeutic team. I utilize therapeutic techniques from play therapy, art therapy, talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and more. Currently accepting clients with early afternoon and daytime availability.
My favorite aspect of working with children, families, and adolescents involves getting to know and develop relationships with every individual. Helping an individuals and their families navigate difficult situations and celebrate positive growth in therapy and everyday situations is such a unique and positive aspect of being a part of a family’s therapeutic team. I utilize therapeutic techniques from play therapy, art therapy, talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and more. Currently accepting clients with early afternoon and daytime availability.
(616) 344-9111 View (616) 344-9111
Photo of Jonathan Patrick Rasbach, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CMHC, NCC®
Jonathan Patrick Rasbach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CMHC, NCC®
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Hi, my name is Jonathan. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families across Southwest Michigan who want to understand their emotions, heal from trauma, reduce anxiety, and build healthier patterns in daily life and relationships. If you’re navigating stress, trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, sexual identity concerns, compulsive sexual behaviors, or other long‑standing emotional or behavioral cycles, I provide trauma‑informed, evidence‑based counseling that can help you clarify your values, strengthen emotional resilience, improve communication, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.
Hi, my name is Jonathan. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families across Southwest Michigan who want to understand their emotions, heal from trauma, reduce anxiety, and build healthier patterns in daily life and relationships. If you’re navigating stress, trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, sexual identity concerns, compulsive sexual behaviors, or other long‑standing emotional or behavioral cycles, I provide trauma‑informed, evidence‑based counseling that can help you clarify your values, strengthen emotional resilience, improve communication, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.
(269) 982-7200 View (269) 982-7200
Photo of Christiana Oliveira, Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Christiana Oliveira
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
The decision to work with a therapist can seem overwhelming. I strive to create a collaborative environment to deal with past issues, current stressors, and to help you outline your future goals. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, or other concerns, I provide a trusting relationship, in a judgement free atmosphere, to promote health and wellbeing.
The decision to work with a therapist can seem overwhelming. I strive to create a collaborative environment to deal with past issues, current stressors, and to help you outline your future goals. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, or other concerns, I provide a trusting relationship, in a judgement free atmosphere, to promote health and wellbeing.
(269) 409-5521 View (269) 409-5521
Photo of Alyssa A. Sussdorf, Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Alyssa A. Sussdorf
Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Growing up can feel confusing, heavy, or overwhelming at times. I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate emotional challenges, life transitions, and the impact of trauma.
Growing up can feel confusing, heavy, or overwhelming at times. I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate emotional challenges, life transitions, and the impact of trauma.
(616) 295-8284 View (616) 295-8284
Photo of Deborah Webb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Deborah Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
It takes courage to ask for help during a difficult time. Many of us are used to carrying challenges alone or we worry about burdening our loved ones too much. I want to encourage you that we all need connection and support when facing hard circumstances. Counseling can be a very helpful step in making change or finding healing in your life. For 20 years I have had the honor of partnering with people as they work through relationship issues, depression, anxiety, body image concerns, substance abuse issues, grief or trauma.
It takes courage to ask for help during a difficult time. Many of us are used to carrying challenges alone or we worry about burdening our loved ones too much. I want to encourage you that we all need connection and support when facing hard circumstances. Counseling can be a very helpful step in making change or finding healing in your life. For 20 years I have had the honor of partnering with people as they work through relationship issues, depression, anxiety, body image concerns, substance abuse issues, grief or trauma.
(269) 489-3216 View (269) 489-3216
Photo of Ryan A Duckworth, Psychologist, PsyD
Ryan A Duckworth
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Two things you can count on from me: Honesty & Authenticity. So I'll tell you the truth, I'm really good at two things: Trauma treatment and psychological testing/diagnosis. Everything else? Honestly? I'm just okay. As your psychologist, I will be a calm and supportive figure that you can count on to offer practical help on your journey. Most people would describe my style of therapy as unbiased, compassionate, and goal-oriented. I have over 10 years of experience treating PTSD and I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). I will offer you the opportunity to do the hard things that will truly get results.
Two things you can count on from me: Honesty & Authenticity. So I'll tell you the truth, I'm really good at two things: Trauma treatment and psychological testing/diagnosis. Everything else? Honestly? I'm just okay. As your psychologist, I will be a calm and supportive figure that you can count on to offer practical help on your journey. Most people would describe my style of therapy as unbiased, compassionate, and goal-oriented. I have over 10 years of experience treating PTSD and I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). I will offer you the opportunity to do the hard things that will truly get results.
(269) 390-6557 View (269) 390-6557
Photo of John M Berecz, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, LLC
John M Berecz
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, LLC
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Only the strong seek help. It takes courage to look at struggles, weaknesses and challenges. We all have them. It's what we do with them that determines whether we grow or wither. Surrounded by vineyards and orchards, my office setting is soothing and private. I listen first. Carefully. And together you and I clarify challenges, goals, and options. With over forty-five years of clinical experience and as Berrien County's only board certified clinical psychologist, I look forward to assisting you as your coach, therapist, or psychoanalyst as your needs indicate.
Only the strong seek help. It takes courage to look at struggles, weaknesses and challenges. We all have them. It's what we do with them that determines whether we grow or wither. Surrounded by vineyards and orchards, my office setting is soothing and private. I listen first. Carefully. And together you and I clarify challenges, goals, and options. With over forty-five years of clinical experience and as Berrien County's only board certified clinical psychologist, I look forward to assisting you as your coach, therapist, or psychoanalyst as your needs indicate.
(269) 795-6310 View (269) 795-6310
Photo of Nicole Slagor, Counselor, MA, LPC
Nicole Slagor
Counselor, MA, LPC
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
I focus on Christian Counseling that uses a holistic approach to mental health. Working with me, you will learn how to improve all areas that impact mental health: mind, body and soul. Mind: Through counseling for 15 years, I have worked using therapies that support the mind such as Cognitive-Behavioral and Solution Focused. Body: Having a post-master's certification in Nutritional Psychology, I understand the biology behind how our bodies make neurotransmitters and I will teach you how to support your body in this process. Soul: Coming from a Christian perspective I know how important it is to integrate faith in therapy.
I focus on Christian Counseling that uses a holistic approach to mental health. Working with me, you will learn how to improve all areas that impact mental health: mind, body and soul. Mind: Through counseling for 15 years, I have worked using therapies that support the mind such as Cognitive-Behavioral and Solution Focused. Body: Having a post-master's certification in Nutritional Psychology, I understand the biology behind how our bodies make neurotransmitters and I will teach you how to support your body in this process. Soul: Coming from a Christian perspective I know how important it is to integrate faith in therapy.
View
Photo of Ashley Pike, Pre-Licensed Professional, LLC
Ashley Pike
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLC
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
We each have within us what we need to succeed, but when life derails us or we become our own enemy, we get stuck. It’s my job to help you get un-stuck and help you discover your own innate ability to grow and succeed. Whether it be in finding trust and healing in yourself after trauma or finding better ways to relate to others or even in learning more effective strategies to manage depression, anxiety, or daily life stresses, we work together to meet your goals and create a structure for you that you can then use outside of therapy.
We each have within us what we need to succeed, but when life derails us or we become our own enemy, we get stuck. It’s my job to help you get un-stuck and help you discover your own innate ability to grow and succeed. Whether it be in finding trust and healing in yourself after trauma or finding better ways to relate to others or even in learning more effective strategies to manage depression, anxiety, or daily life stresses, we work together to meet your goals and create a structure for you that you can then use outside of therapy.
(269) 291-0058 View (269) 291-0058
Photo of Mavis Mann-Rojas, Counselor, MA, LLPC
Mavis Mann-Rojas
Counselor, MA, LLPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Making time for self-care and mindful wellness can be difficult, and we can often struggle to create space for self-understanding, self-nurturing, healing, and flourishing. My passion is to provide holistic therapy that starts with creating a gentle therapeutic space that fosters well-being and that creates a relationship built on trust, safety, and hope. I’m passionate about functional health and wellness, and my focus is on fostering unconditional acceptance and promoting new and meaningful growth to support my clients’ unique healing and restoration journeys. I use a multidisciplinary approach tailored to the clients’ needs.
Making time for self-care and mindful wellness can be difficult, and we can often struggle to create space for self-understanding, self-nurturing, healing, and flourishing. My passion is to provide holistic therapy that starts with creating a gentle therapeutic space that fosters well-being and that creates a relationship built on trust, safety, and hope. I’m passionate about functional health and wellness, and my focus is on fostering unconditional acceptance and promoting new and meaningful growth to support my clients’ unique healing and restoration journeys. I use a multidisciplinary approach tailored to the clients’ needs.
(269) 895-6945 View (269) 895-6945
Photo of Susan E Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, CFLE, LMFT
Susan E Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, CFLE, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
Caring about people, as well as their relationships especially in families, I am committed to being a resource for anyone seeking change, growth and healing. I have respect for individuals' religious and spiritual beliefs. Do you need to build trust? Do you feel emotionally exhausted and/or alienated from others? Are you anxious? Do you need assistance with marriage, parenting and/or generational issues? Do you want to build a strong foundation for your marriage by effective pre-marital counseling? I offer PREPARE-ENRICH and the Gottman Relationship Assessment for premarital and married couples upon request.
Caring about people, as well as their relationships especially in families, I am committed to being a resource for anyone seeking change, growth and healing. I have respect for individuals' religious and spiritual beliefs. Do you need to build trust? Do you feel emotionally exhausted and/or alienated from others? Are you anxious? Do you need assistance with marriage, parenting and/or generational issues? Do you want to build a strong foundation for your marriage by effective pre-marital counseling? I offer PREPARE-ENRICH and the Gottman Relationship Assessment for premarital and married couples upon request.
(269) 743-3822 View (269) 743-3822

See more therapy options for 49085

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 49085

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 49085 who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
86% Social Anxiety
86% Health Anxiety
86% Driving Anxiety
70% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
64% Priority Health

How Therapists in 49085 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
30% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 49085?

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.