Therapists in 49720

Photo of Allyson Foster Leverich - Mirrored Waters Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Ph D, LMSW, CAADC, TF-CBT
Mirrored Waters Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Ph D, LMSW, CAADC, TF-CBT
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Mirrored Waters Counseling is available to all ages, individuals, and couples who want to resolve the issues that are complicating their lives. Be it depression, anxiety, communication in relationships, the ability to express one's thoughts and feelings or behavioral issues. Each issue can become the catalyst to future problems which can overshadow our lives. We all deserve to live a fulfilling life, one free from the angst we create or endure. Allow yourself to dream of a future where you give yourself permission to be happy.
Mirrored Waters Counseling is available to all ages, individuals, and couples who want to resolve the issues that are complicating their lives. Be it depression, anxiety, communication in relationships, the ability to express one's thoughts and feelings or behavioral issues. Each issue can become the catalyst to future problems which can overshadow our lives. We all deserve to live a fulfilling life, one free from the angst we create or endure. Allow yourself to dream of a future where you give yourself permission to be happy.
(231) 266-0138 View (231) 266-0138
Photo of Thalia M Ferenc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LMSW, DCSW
Thalia M Ferenc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LMSW, DCSW
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Help for Emotional, Behavioral and Relationship Problems. Serving adults, adolescents 14 and over, couples and families, from my private practice located halfway between Charlevoix and Petoskey. I currently provide a choice of in-person or teletherapy. I utilize an integrative blend of therapy orientations, tailoring treatment to each individual's needs. You are unique. Your therapy should be, too.
Help for Emotional, Behavioral and Relationship Problems. Serving adults, adolescents 14 and over, couples and families, from my private practice located halfway between Charlevoix and Petoskey. I currently provide a choice of in-person or teletherapy. I utilize an integrative blend of therapy orientations, tailoring treatment to each individual's needs. You are unique. Your therapy should be, too.
(231) 335-3616 View (231) 335-3616
Photo of Brendan Cedar Toton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Brendan Cedar Toton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin. Maybe parts of you feel overwhelmed, lost, or in conflict—and other parts are just trying to keep it all together. I offer a grounded, compassionate space where you can slow down, listen inward, and begin to make sense of what’s happening inside. My role isn’t to fix you, but to walk with you as your inner clarity and self-trust begin to unfold.
You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin. Maybe parts of you feel overwhelmed, lost, or in conflict—and other parts are just trying to keep it all together. I offer a grounded, compassionate space where you can slow down, listen inward, and begin to make sense of what’s happening inside. My role isn’t to fix you, but to walk with you as your inner clarity and self-trust begin to unfold.
(231) 867-0621 View (231) 867-0621
Photo of Elizabeth Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist, Elizabeth Simpson, LMFT
Elizabeth Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, Elizabeth Simpson, LMFT
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Waitlist for new clients
I help people address mental health issues through a combination of highly individualized therapy and lifestyle interventions. I have extensive experience treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and trauma. I help people better understand how their attitudes and behaviors are influenced by their life experience and current environment, so change is possible. My approach is highly collaborative and flexible, and I work with my clients to maximize the benefits of therapy by helping them develop supports and opportunities for growth outside scheduled sessions.
I help people address mental health issues through a combination of highly individualized therapy and lifestyle interventions. I have extensive experience treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and trauma. I help people better understand how their attitudes and behaviors are influenced by their life experience and current environment, so change is possible. My approach is highly collaborative and flexible, and I work with my clients to maximize the benefits of therapy by helping them develop supports and opportunities for growth outside scheduled sessions.
(231) 459-3213 View (231) 459-3213
Photo of Jean Moree, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I
Jean Moree
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Find your calm and reclaim your confidence. It can feel overwhelming when past experiences or chronic worry interfere with your daily life, relationships, and sense of self. My approach is holistic, blending evidence-based techniques with deep empathy and respect for your unique story. We’ll work together to build tools for grounding, self-regulation, and resilience. I place strong value on the therapeutic relationship and strive to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, validated, and empowered.
Find your calm and reclaim your confidence. It can feel overwhelming when past experiences or chronic worry interfere with your daily life, relationships, and sense of self. My approach is holistic, blending evidence-based techniques with deep empathy and respect for your unique story. We’ll work together to build tools for grounding, self-regulation, and resilience. I place strong value on the therapeutic relationship and strive to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, validated, and empowered.
(231) 227-8385 View (231) 227-8385
Photo of Kendra Baumgartner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kendra Baumgartner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Thanks for stopping by! I’m a queer‑affirming, trauma‑informed Licensed Professional Counselor who believes therapy should be radically safe and unapologetically empowering. If you live with anxiety, carry the weight of past trauma, or simply need a space where your full identity—including gender, sexuality, and values—can breathe, you’re in the right place. I blend Person‑Centered warmth with evidence‑based tools from CBT, Solution‑Focused Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. Together we’ll honor what hurts, amplify what’s resilient, and craft a life that finally feels like it’s yours.
Thanks for stopping by! I’m a queer‑affirming, trauma‑informed Licensed Professional Counselor who believes therapy should be radically safe and unapologetically empowering. If you live with anxiety, carry the weight of past trauma, or simply need a space where your full identity—including gender, sexuality, and values—can breathe, you’re in the right place. I blend Person‑Centered warmth with evidence‑based tools from CBT, Solution‑Focused Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. Together we’ll honor what hurts, amplify what’s resilient, and craft a life that finally feels like it’s yours.
(586) 488-2959 View (586) 488-2959
Photo of Dr. Betz King - King and Associates Psychotherapy, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
King and Associates Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
4 Endorsed
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Top Ten Reasons For Therapy: 10) It's good to talk to someone who accepts you unconditionally. 9) It's cheaper than hitting bottom. 8) It can prevent bad situations from getting worse. 7) It helps correct self-defeating behaviors. 6) It teaches assertiveness, which raises self-esteem. 5)It teaches new ways of thinking. 4) It provides relief. 3)It's not as sappy as it looks on TV. 2) Knowledge is power; knowing the reasons for what bothers you gives you power to change. AND THE NUMBER ONE REASON TO GO TO THERAPY: You deserve to like yourself and your life!
Top Ten Reasons For Therapy: 10) It's good to talk to someone who accepts you unconditionally. 9) It's cheaper than hitting bottom. 8) It can prevent bad situations from getting worse. 7) It helps correct self-defeating behaviors. 6) It teaches assertiveness, which raises self-esteem. 5)It teaches new ways of thinking. 4) It provides relief. 3)It's not as sappy as it looks on TV. 2) Knowledge is power; knowing the reasons for what bothers you gives you power to change. AND THE NUMBER ONE REASON TO GO TO THERAPY: You deserve to like yourself and your life!
(248) 780-1110 View (248) 780-1110
Photo of Dr. Jill Trager, Psychologist, Psy D
Dr. Jill Trager
Psychologist, Psy D
Online Only
I am a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist and a member of the American Psychological Association with over 25 years of experience in my field. For the majority of these years, I worked out of my private-practice office in Midland, MI where I provided a wide range of mental health services to individuals diverse in age, as well as, ethnicity and lifestyle. I offered in-person services until my spouse & I relocated to Northern MI in 2022, necessitating a transition to my current, virtual-only practice in order to cont. serving my existing clients. I love what I do and reconsider it a privilege to be entrusted with my clients' care
I am a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist and a member of the American Psychological Association with over 25 years of experience in my field. For the majority of these years, I worked out of my private-practice office in Midland, MI where I provided a wide range of mental health services to individuals diverse in age, as well as, ethnicity and lifestyle. I offered in-person services until my spouse & I relocated to Northern MI in 2022, necessitating a transition to my current, virtual-only practice in order to cont. serving my existing clients. I love what I do and reconsider it a privilege to be entrusted with my clients' care
(989) 270-0835 View (989) 270-0835
Photo of Jessica R. Stefanski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Jessica R. Stefanski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. I am so happy you are here. As humans we are extremely resilient and adaptive to our surroundings. At times, this can be a gift and it can also lead us on a path that is no longer serving us. Therapy has the potential to change the quality of our lives, as well as for those around us, for generations to come. I specialize in guiding people back to themselves, while setting the conditions for healing to take place. Given the right conditions our bodies and minds can heal. You already carry everything you need from within. My approach is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and client empowerment.
Welcome. I am so happy you are here. As humans we are extremely resilient and adaptive to our surroundings. At times, this can be a gift and it can also lead us on a path that is no longer serving us. Therapy has the potential to change the quality of our lives, as well as for those around us, for generations to come. I specialize in guiding people back to themselves, while setting the conditions for healing to take place. Given the right conditions our bodies and minds can heal. You already carry everything you need from within. My approach is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and client empowerment.
(231) 227-4309 View (231) 227-4309
Photo of Esther Brill - Solis Psychotherapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Solis Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Living with anxiety and depression can make it difficult to get through the day. You matter and Solis Psychotherapy is here to help you discover the best version of you.
Living with anxiety and depression can make it difficult to get through the day. You matter and Solis Psychotherapy is here to help you discover the best version of you.
(231) 201-3120 View (231) 201-3120
Photo of Janet Marie La Dere - Jann LaDere MSW,LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Jann LaDere MSW,LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer daytime and evening appointments for those who are in need of services outside the 9-5 days. Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday,Thursday are 6 pm to 9 PM, friday and Saturday as scheduled and Sunday closed For more information please call 231-203-3231. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, I have worked with 3 yr old's to 70 year old's. I have worked with married couples and families and individuals. I am a disabled veteran and would like to give back to my fellow veterans. I am accepting new clients at this time. I work with those who have gender dysphoria.
I offer daytime and evening appointments for those who are in need of services outside the 9-5 days. Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday,Thursday are 6 pm to 9 PM, friday and Saturday as scheduled and Sunday closed For more information please call 231-203-3231. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, I have worked with 3 yr old's to 70 year old's. I have worked with married couples and families and individuals. I am a disabled veteran and would like to give back to my fellow veterans. I am accepting new clients at this time. I work with those who have gender dysphoria.
(231) 903-6691 View (231) 903-6691
Photo of Frank Langer, Psychologist, MSW, PhD
Frank Langer
Psychologist, MSW, PhD
Serves Area
I am a psychologist with nearly forty years' experience as a therapist. Trained as a general practitioner in rural mental health, I see people with a wide range of issues -- anxiety, depression, fears, phobias, procrastination, underachievement, chronic pain, anger management, attention disorders, and frustration in close relationships. If you decide to come in, the first appointment will focus on clarifying your goals and thinking about ways to move toward them. You are invited to a safe, respectful, supportive place where we can understand your situation and work together to improve it.
I am a psychologist with nearly forty years' experience as a therapist. Trained as a general practitioner in rural mental health, I see people with a wide range of issues -- anxiety, depression, fears, phobias, procrastination, underachievement, chronic pain, anger management, attention disorders, and frustration in close relationships. If you decide to come in, the first appointment will focus on clarifying your goals and thinking about ways to move toward them. You are invited to a safe, respectful, supportive place where we can understand your situation and work together to improve it.
(231) 480-4309 View (231) 480-4309
Photo of Sabrina Spearman - Second Chance Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Second Chance Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
At Second Chance Counseling Center, we strive to accommodate every client. We are a group of professionals here to meet your needs with our unique combination of skills. Our clinicians have been trained in various modalities to treat trauma, relationship issues, depression, grief, anxiety, and many other disorders. This allows each of our clinicians to focus on you in your treatment. Let us help guide you in your journey.
At Second Chance Counseling Center, we strive to accommodate every client. We are a group of professionals here to meet your needs with our unique combination of skills. Our clinicians have been trained in various modalities to treat trauma, relationship issues, depression, grief, anxiety, and many other disorders. This allows each of our clinicians to focus on you in your treatment. Let us help guide you in your journey.
(231) 227-9203 View (231) 227-9203
Photo of Sherry Guthrie, Counselor, MS, LPC, MITS
Sherry Guthrie
Counselor, MS, LPC, MITS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals who wish to live a full and rewarding life regardless of past experiences or current challenges. My clients have a range of issues which may include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, recent or remote trauma, childhood maltreatment, family dysfunction, women's issues, distortions of thought, or grief and loss. I use a variety of carefully chosen modalities to assist clients in reaching their personal goals. Such modalities might include CBT, traditional talk therapy, relaxation, biofeedback, pyschodynamic interpretation, assessment measures, and reading or writing material.
I work with individuals who wish to live a full and rewarding life regardless of past experiences or current challenges. My clients have a range of issues which may include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, recent or remote trauma, childhood maltreatment, family dysfunction, women's issues, distortions of thought, or grief and loss. I use a variety of carefully chosen modalities to assist clients in reaching their personal goals. Such modalities might include CBT, traditional talk therapy, relaxation, biofeedback, pyschodynamic interpretation, assessment measures, and reading or writing material.
(231) 389-1047 View (231) 389-1047
Photo of Jules Shellby - Clinical Stress Relief and Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC-D, ADS, RYT
Clinical Stress Relief and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC-D, ADS, RYT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Freedom! Ready to get unstuck? You're this far already, reading this. Seeking support proves you haven't given up. It shows you're strong. Heal with talking or spec.-acupuncture. Calm insomnia, ease your body, relieve fatigue or life dissatisfaction. Select TCM methods, or step-by-step techniques to quiet distress, process trauma, soothe anxiety/depression. Suffering alone isn't bravery; you DON'T have to live this way. Break free from diet-culture with intuitive, unconditional eating. Find your natural body size. Change your mood patterns/communication skill. Use a Professional Career Counselor for the job you deserve. Make a plan!
Freedom! Ready to get unstuck? You're this far already, reading this. Seeking support proves you haven't given up. It shows you're strong. Heal with talking or spec.-acupuncture. Calm insomnia, ease your body, relieve fatigue or life dissatisfaction. Select TCM methods, or step-by-step techniques to quiet distress, process trauma, soothe anxiety/depression. Suffering alone isn't bravery; you DON'T have to live this way. Break free from diet-culture with intuitive, unconditional eating. Find your natural body size. Change your mood patterns/communication skill. Use a Professional Career Counselor for the job you deserve. Make a plan!
(231) 259-5649 View (231) 259-5649
Photo of Brendan O'Donnel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Brendan O'Donnel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you are experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you distressed in your relationships or with your gender identity or sexual function? Are you in grief, confronting mortality, and managing a complex medical illness or disability? Have you lost what it feels like to be yourself?
Are you are experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you distressed in your relationships or with your gender identity or sexual function? Are you in grief, confronting mortality, and managing a complex medical illness or disability? Have you lost what it feels like to be yourself?
(231) 442-0898 View (231) 442-0898
Photo of Chance L. Gawlinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CADC
Chance L. Gawlinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CADC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
As a former behavioral health client, I know what it feels like to struggle; however, I also know what it feels like to heal, persevere, and get a second chance story. I am understanding of the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, and I will walk alongside you on your journey to healing. Whether you are court ordered or voluntarily seeking services, we will establish a therapeutic relationship built on trust, support, and empathy, with the intention to help you obtain your goals and increase your quality of life. If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you. I look forward to being part of your second chance story.
As a former behavioral health client, I know what it feels like to struggle; however, I also know what it feels like to heal, persevere, and get a second chance story. I am understanding of the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, and I will walk alongside you on your journey to healing. Whether you are court ordered or voluntarily seeking services, we will establish a therapeutic relationship built on trust, support, and empathy, with the intention to help you obtain your goals and increase your quality of life. If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you. I look forward to being part of your second chance story.
(231) 310-5285 View (231) 310-5285
Photo of Susan Mary Hoffman - Susan M Hoffman LMSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC
Susan M Hoffman LMSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
After more than 35 years as a Clinical Social Worker, I’ve come to understand that we all share struggles, and true healing happens when we connect with others. My therapy practice focuses on both mental health and addiction issues. I maintain an advanced CAADC credential for substance use disorders.
After more than 35 years as a Clinical Social Worker, I’ve come to understand that we all share struggles, and true healing happens when we connect with others. My therapy practice focuses on both mental health and addiction issues. I maintain an advanced CAADC credential for substance use disorders.
(231) 487-6619 View (231) 487-6619
Photo of Kimberly Murphy - Northern Lights Counseling & Consultation, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Northern Lights Counseling & Consultation, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Serves Area
"Happiness does not depend on what you have or who you are. It solely relies on what you think" (Buddha) The majority of our suffering comes from our thinking. In therapy I use a variety of approaches and techniques to resolve problematic behaviors, beliefs, feelings, relationship issues, and/or somatic responses.
"Happiness does not depend on what you have or who you are. It solely relies on what you think" (Buddha) The majority of our suffering comes from our thinking. In therapy I use a variety of approaches and techniques to resolve problematic behaviors, beliefs, feelings, relationship issues, and/or somatic responses.
(989) 584-1409 View (989) 584-1409
Photo of Katherine Vance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-II
Katherine Vance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-II
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and life coach practicing in Elk Rapids, MI. I previously practiced in Bloomfield Hills MI before moving to the Traverse City area in 2019. I have experience as an Infant Mental Health Specialist, Child and Adolescent Therapist and Individual/Family Therapist. I received my BA from University of Arkansas in Social Work and Criminal Justice and a MSW from University of Michigan in Therapeutic Practice and Community Organizing. I enjoy working with all individuals to process and explore the concerns that may prohibit them from reaching their potential and living life to its fullest.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and life coach practicing in Elk Rapids, MI. I previously practiced in Bloomfield Hills MI before moving to the Traverse City area in 2019. I have experience as an Infant Mental Health Specialist, Child and Adolescent Therapist and Individual/Family Therapist. I received my BA from University of Arkansas in Social Work and Criminal Justice and a MSW from University of Michigan in Therapeutic Practice and Community Organizing. I enjoy working with all individuals to process and explore the concerns that may prohibit them from reaching their potential and living life to its fullest.
(947) 208-6971 View (947) 208-6971

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 49720

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 49720 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
97% Depression
90% Trauma and PTSD
80% Relationship Issues
80% Self Esteem
80% Stress
77% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Priority Health
65% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in 49720 see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
14% Male
7% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 49720?

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.