Photo of Amy Thomas, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
What would it be like to feel like yourself again? So often in life, we push others away when we feel our worst. The things we enjoy quickly depart with them. We are left engulfed in feelings of hopelessness and despair, losing our sense of self and purpose. Although these issues are our responsibility, we don’t need to address them on our own. Therapy can help.I believe that we are not museums meant to preserve our negative experiences. Our past issues can be resolved. Through resolution of past experiences we are able to enter into a loving relationship with ourselves.
What would it be like to feel like yourself again? So often in life, we push others away when we feel our worst. The things we enjoy quickly depart with them. We are left engulfed in feelings of hopelessness and despair, losing our sense of self and purpose. Although these issues are our responsibility, we don’t need to address them on our own. Therapy can help.I believe that we are not museums meant to preserve our negative experiences. Our past issues can be resolved. Through resolution of past experiences we are able to enter into a loving relationship with ourselves.
(231) 389-5449 View (231) 389-5449
Photo of Denise Wunderlich, MC,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Wunderlich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Empire, MI 49630
Whether you seek emotional relief, better relationships, personal growth, or healing, I can help you unlock your full potential and lead a more satisfying life. Clients often want to understand themselves better, develop coping skills, and build confidence. Every couple faces challenges. Do you want to be seen and struggle to get your partner’s attention? Are you tired of going around in circles when you argue or avoiding arguments or tough topics? Has the passion and romance fizzled? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed by trying to live up to someone else’s standards?
Whether you seek emotional relief, better relationships, personal growth, or healing, I can help you unlock your full potential and lead a more satisfying life. Clients often want to understand themselves better, develop coping skills, and build confidence. Every couple faces challenges. Do you want to be seen and struggle to get your partner’s attention? Are you tired of going around in circles when you argue or avoiding arguments or tough topics? Has the passion and romance fizzled? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed by trying to live up to someone else’s standards?
(231) 244-1976 View (231) 244-1976
Photo of Eric D LaPaugh, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Eric D LaPaugh
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Empire, MI 49630
I like to offer my clients an opportunity to choose between an office visit, or a walk and talk at a nearby trail or park. Through my research I have found that clients with difficulties like ADD/ADHD, depression, and anxiety respond best to treatment in the outdoors.
I like to offer my clients an opportunity to choose between an office visit, or a walk and talk at a nearby trail or park. Through my research I have found that clients with difficulties like ADD/ADHD, depression, and anxiety respond best to treatment in the outdoors.
(231) 994-6543 View (231) 994-6543

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hayley Schmidt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hayley Schmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am accepting new clients as of November 2024. Hi! I'm a therapist who walks alongside people on their journey of healing and self-discovery. I'm here to help you create a purposeful, balanced, and fulfilling life. My approach is gentle and body-centered. I guide individuals through difficult transitions toward living without limiting beliefs, doubts, and insecurities. We often mistake our limiting beliefs as truths about ourselves. Once we learn to meet ourselves with love and kindness, we start to heal. I'm here to guide you through your obstacles to clarity and inner freedom.
I am accepting new clients as of November 2024. Hi! I'm a therapist who walks alongside people on their journey of healing and self-discovery. I'm here to help you create a purposeful, balanced, and fulfilling life. My approach is gentle and body-centered. I guide individuals through difficult transitions toward living without limiting beliefs, doubts, and insecurities. We often mistake our limiting beliefs as truths about ourselves. Once we learn to meet ourselves with love and kindness, we start to heal. I'm here to guide you through your obstacles to clarity and inner freedom.
(734) 892-1172 View (734) 892-1172
Photo of Margaret Maggie Hartmann - Margaret Hartmann - Begin Again Counseling Pllc, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Hartmann - Begin Again Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My focus is women and adult individuals seeking support with trauma, substance use/addiction, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, aging, relationships and co-dependence. Perceptions can and do change throughout our lives. It is never too late to begin again and there is always hope! Therapy serves as a vehicle to help you safely navigate your learning and personal growth, and to open doors to new possibilities. Together, through non-judgmental supportive guidance, we’ll develop skills that are the best fit to empower and enable the attainment of the life you desire!
My focus is women and adult individuals seeking support with trauma, substance use/addiction, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, aging, relationships and co-dependence. Perceptions can and do change throughout our lives. It is never too late to begin again and there is always hope! Therapy serves as a vehicle to help you safely navigate your learning and personal growth, and to open doors to new possibilities. Together, through non-judgmental supportive guidance, we’ll develop skills that are the best fit to empower and enable the attainment of the life you desire!
(231) 646-8236 View (231) 646-8236
Photo of Arielle Kanitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arielle Kanitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are intense emotions overwhelming you? Do you struggle with unfulfilling relationships or feelings of loneliness and emptiness? Managing stress, anxiety, or depression can feel exhausting, but you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can explore your challenges, uncover your strengths, and build tools to help you create a more balanced and meaningful life.
Are intense emotions overwhelming you? Do you struggle with unfulfilling relationships or feelings of loneliness and emptiness? Managing stress, anxiety, or depression can feel exhausting, but you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can explore your challenges, uncover your strengths, and build tools to help you create a more balanced and meaningful life.
(561) 867-3189 View (561) 867-3189
Photo of Heather M. Ford, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather M. Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal clients are couples and individuals who are tired of suffering and want to make positive changes in their lives. My clients don't lay on the couch and vent, but rather are willing to roll their sleeves up and work hard to feel better and change. If you have trauma, we will get to the root of it. No more avoidance. If you're in a relationship with poor communication, broken trust and little intimacy we will fix it. We will equalize the power between you both, and draw healthy boundaries individually, and as a couple.
My ideal clients are couples and individuals who are tired of suffering and want to make positive changes in their lives. My clients don't lay on the couch and vent, but rather are willing to roll their sleeves up and work hard to feel better and change. If you have trauma, we will get to the root of it. No more avoidance. If you're in a relationship with poor communication, broken trust and little intimacy we will fix it. We will equalize the power between you both, and draw healthy boundaries individually, and as a couple.
(231) 272-5759 View (231) 272-5759
Photo of Steve Wheeler, LPC, CTRS, SCL, Counselor
Steve Wheeler
Counselor, LPC, CTRS, SCL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My goal is to join you in the mess that is life. I am here to support you in finding meaning through the joys, pains, trials and tribulations. I'm looking for clients who are ready to dig in, grow and make some life changes. Whether you're recently out of prison, supporting a family member with a brain injury, supporting children who aren't all sunshine and rainbows or just trying to function in life without breaking down every other day, I'm here for all of it. I am generally looking for adult clients, with diverse backgrounds, looking for ways to thrive, advocate and empower themselves (and those around them) through life.
My goal is to join you in the mess that is life. I am here to support you in finding meaning through the joys, pains, trials and tribulations. I'm looking for clients who are ready to dig in, grow and make some life changes. Whether you're recently out of prison, supporting a family member with a brain injury, supporting children who aren't all sunshine and rainbows or just trying to function in life without breaking down every other day, I'm here for all of it. I am generally looking for adult clients, with diverse backgrounds, looking for ways to thrive, advocate and empower themselves (and those around them) through life.
(231) 444-5496 View (231) 444-5496
Photo of Evynn Johnson, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evynn Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be scary and uncertain. We are all trying to figure out how to feel "normal" through life's many challenges and changes and often don't consider asking for help until we feel so heavy we don't know where to turn. My role is to help you identify your strengths and help provide tools to manage the difficult emotions. Anxiety, depression, and fear are all exacerbated during stressful times. Some of us are isolated without much social support and or are experiencing strain in our relationships with family, friends, or colleagues.
Life can be scary and uncertain. We are all trying to figure out how to feel "normal" through life's many challenges and changes and often don't consider asking for help until we feel so heavy we don't know where to turn. My role is to help you identify your strengths and help provide tools to manage the difficult emotions. Anxiety, depression, and fear are all exacerbated during stressful times. Some of us are isolated without much social support and or are experiencing strain in our relationships with family, friends, or colleagues.
(808) 452-7359 View (808) 452-7359
Photo of Ken Alan VanElslander, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ken Alan VanElslander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Northport, MI 49670
Hello, I am a certified, licensed Counselor in the State of Michigan. My specialty is Addiction Counseling and I assist my clients for all Brain wellness including anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life coaching, spirituality, trauma and Mindfulness. I'm formerly the Director of Brighton Center for Recovery(Brighton Hospital) and have been in private practice since 2014. Brain health is so important to our outlook on life. During our lifetime we come up against life issues which can be overwhelming. Like yearly physicals we have from our physician checking in on our brain well-being is just as important. Be well and just Be!
Hello, I am a certified, licensed Counselor in the State of Michigan. My specialty is Addiction Counseling and I assist my clients for all Brain wellness including anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life coaching, spirituality, trauma and Mindfulness. I'm formerly the Director of Brighton Center for Recovery(Brighton Hospital) and have been in private practice since 2014. Brain health is so important to our outlook on life. During our lifetime we come up against life issues which can be overwhelming. Like yearly physicals we have from our physician checking in on our brain well-being is just as important. Be well and just Be!
(313) 908-5160 View (313) 908-5160
Photo of Taylor Colquitt, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Colquitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everyone has their own unique journey through therapy. As a therapist at Start My Wellness, I strive to be my most authentic self, characterized by warmth, empathy, and genuine curiosity about your experiences. I will always provide a nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, validated, and supported as we navigate your inner worlds! I have experience working with adolescents ages 12+ and adults navigating various struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, self-esteem/confidence issues and relationship/family violence.
Everyone has their own unique journey through therapy. As a therapist at Start My Wellness, I strive to be my most authentic self, characterized by warmth, empathy, and genuine curiosity about your experiences. I will always provide a nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, validated, and supported as we navigate your inner worlds! I have experience working with adolescents ages 12+ and adults navigating various struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, self-esteem/confidence issues and relationship/family violence.
(313) 546-9270 View (313) 546-9270
Photo of Bridget Kasmenn - Restorative Health, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Restorative Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
At Restorative Health, we believe in the power of healing and personal growth through integrative psychotherapy. Located in Milan and South Lyon, MI, our practice is home to a compassionate team of nine experienced clinicians, each with their own unique specialties and perspectives. Together, we are committed to helping you create meaningful change and to find your way back to your best self. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, past trauma, or just feeling stuck, we're here to help you reclaim your confidence, strength, and sense of self.
At Restorative Health, we believe in the power of healing and personal growth through integrative psychotherapy. Located in Milan and South Lyon, MI, our practice is home to a compassionate team of nine experienced clinicians, each with their own unique specialties and perspectives. Together, we are committed to helping you create meaningful change and to find your way back to your best self. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, past trauma, or just feeling stuck, we're here to help you reclaim your confidence, strength, and sense of self.
(248) 274-1061 View (248) 274-1061
Photo of Christine Clute, MA, LLP, LPC, Counselor
Christine Clute
Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
The power to have the quality life and relationships that you desire is in your hands. It just takes courage to take the first step. If you feel lost in a maze that keeps ending up where you started, maybe you need a good guide who can help you arrive at a more satisfying destination. I can help you navigate through the challenges in life so that you end up with more positive results. ( PLEASE NOTE: I only work with individuals 20yrs+ old.)
The power to have the quality life and relationships that you desire is in your hands. It just takes courage to take the first step. If you feel lost in a maze that keeps ending up where you started, maybe you need a good guide who can help you arrive at a more satisfying destination. I can help you navigate through the challenges in life so that you end up with more positive results. ( PLEASE NOTE: I only work with individuals 20yrs+ old.)
(231) 225-4172 View (231) 225-4172
Photo of Jackie Hein, MA, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackie Hein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with things that have happened to you or that you’ve done? That struggle is a normal reaction to abnormal events that may have left you feeling unlike yourself. It becomes consuming, costing you time with loved ones and friends, money, sense of peace, sleep, pleasure, joy, or your health and you want nothing more than to be yourself again; maybe even find yourself for the first time ever. I don't judge and am here to listen and be with whatever is going on with you, to provide a safe holding place for emotions and problems, and, if you’re ready, to facilitate interventions to help you reach your personal goals.
Are you struggling with things that have happened to you or that you’ve done? That struggle is a normal reaction to abnormal events that may have left you feeling unlike yourself. It becomes consuming, costing you time with loved ones and friends, money, sense of peace, sleep, pleasure, joy, or your health and you want nothing more than to be yourself again; maybe even find yourself for the first time ever. I don't judge and am here to listen and be with whatever is going on with you, to provide a safe holding place for emotions and problems, and, if you’re ready, to facilitate interventions to help you reach your personal goals.
(231) 518-3004 View (231) 518-3004
Photo of Barbara Jill Rossen, LMSW, ACSW, LMFT, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Jill Rossen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, LMFT, BCD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I help my clients feel more connected to themselves and to others, enjoying richer, more meaningful relationships. The therapeutic process is designed to facilitate change and release one from pain and suffering. It is a collaborative effort as we address your concerns while we navigate the journey from crisis to wellness. I am most helpful in aiding people to find their true voice, and to live their lives more fully and authentically. It is true that living an authentic life, where one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are in synch, brings about lasting happiness. My job is to help facilitate that process.
I help my clients feel more connected to themselves and to others, enjoying richer, more meaningful relationships. The therapeutic process is designed to facilitate change and release one from pain and suffering. It is a collaborative effort as we address your concerns while we navigate the journey from crisis to wellness. I am most helpful in aiding people to find their true voice, and to live their lives more fully and authentically. It is true that living an authentic life, where one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are in synch, brings about lasting happiness. My job is to help facilitate that process.
(517) 292-3535 View (517) 292-3535
Photo of Aimee VanAndel, MS, LLP, Psychologist
Aimee VanAndel
Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We all want to live our best life, but sometimes anxiety, depression, or just the “stuff” in life gets in the way. Maybe you feel stuck in a job, relationship, or situation that just doesn’t bring you joy anymore. Maybe you get so worried about making a wrong choice that it's hard to make a choice at all. We all feel a little lost sometimes and just don’t know where to go from here, how to make our dreams a reality, how to feel fulfilled, how to have a purpose.
We all want to live our best life, but sometimes anxiety, depression, or just the “stuff” in life gets in the way. Maybe you feel stuck in a job, relationship, or situation that just doesn’t bring you joy anymore. Maybe you get so worried about making a wrong choice that it's hard to make a choice at all. We all feel a little lost sometimes and just don’t know where to go from here, how to make our dreams a reality, how to feel fulfilled, how to have a purpose.
(231) 244-6719 View (231) 244-6719
Photo of Sara L Decker, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sara L Decker
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is not one size fits all. Therapy should be catered to your individual needs, concerns, and goals. I will walk beside you on your journey, assisting you over the bumps and cracks along the road. We can start wherever you are in your healing and self discovery, as there is no pressure to talk about things that you do not want to. I often hear that others are concerned about starting over, retelling their stories. Well, that is not the case here. You are in control of your story and I am here to listen, clarify and help you write the next chapters you deserve. This is not easy life work and you do not have to do it alone.
Therapy is not one size fits all. Therapy should be catered to your individual needs, concerns, and goals. I will walk beside you on your journey, assisting you over the bumps and cracks along the road. We can start wherever you are in your healing and self discovery, as there is no pressure to talk about things that you do not want to. I often hear that others are concerned about starting over, retelling their stories. Well, that is not the case here. You are in control of your story and I am here to listen, clarify and help you write the next chapters you deserve. This is not easy life work and you do not have to do it alone.
(616) 557-7471 View (616) 557-7471
Photo of Caitlin Braxton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Braxton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm so glad you're here! It's no small feat to ask for help and finding a therapist dedicated to creating a warm, nurturing, and supportive space to walk alongside you can be challenging. Knowing the importance the therapeutic relationship has on outcomes, I work with my clients to tailor our approach to best meet their needs. Those who are committed to engaging in self-discovery and find themselves ready to make meaningful life changes may resonate most with my strength and solution focused style.
I'm so glad you're here! It's no small feat to ask for help and finding a therapist dedicated to creating a warm, nurturing, and supportive space to walk alongside you can be challenging. Knowing the importance the therapeutic relationship has on outcomes, I work with my clients to tailor our approach to best meet their needs. Those who are committed to engaging in self-discovery and find themselves ready to make meaningful life changes may resonate most with my strength and solution focused style.
(231) 300-9568 View (231) 300-9568
Photo of Ciara Braun - Certified Sex Therapist, MA, LPC, NCC, CST, Counselor
Ciara Braun - Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Online Only
Open Dec slots! I specialize in relationship concerns including infidelity or betrayal, desire, and sex for individuals or couples with a focus on rebuilding connection, communication, and conflict skills. My treatment approach is based on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). This includes exploring self-talk, relationships, and attachment patterns to help you better understand yourself and achieve your goals. I focus on educating the client, utilizing your strengths and providing techniques to overcome conflicts. My goal is not to diagnose you but to improve your life and your relationships to manage future concerns independently.
Open Dec slots! I specialize in relationship concerns including infidelity or betrayal, desire, and sex for individuals or couples with a focus on rebuilding connection, communication, and conflict skills. My treatment approach is based on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). This includes exploring self-talk, relationships, and attachment patterns to help you better understand yourself and achieve your goals. I focus on educating the client, utilizing your strengths and providing techniques to overcome conflicts. My goal is not to diagnose you but to improve your life and your relationships to manage future concerns independently.
(586) 200-6117 View (586) 200-6117
Photo of Jenna Parker, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenna Parker
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
My background is in science, education, and art. I believe in the power of creativity and communication to solve complex problems. Sometimes we just need a teammate to help us process what we're going through and make a plan for moving forward. I see individual adults with a variety of mental health concerns like panic disorder, grief, and depression.
My background is in science, education, and art. I believe in the power of creativity and communication to solve complex problems. Sometimes we just need a teammate to help us process what we're going through and make a plan for moving forward. I see individual adults with a variety of mental health concerns like panic disorder, grief, and depression.
(231) 272-4970 View (231) 272-4970

See more therapy options for 49630

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 49630

< 10

Therapists in 49630 who prioritize treating:

67% Relationship Issues
67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Grief
67% Divorce
67% Coping Skills
67% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

19 Years

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male

How Therapists in 49630 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 49630?

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.