Photo of Akaisha Blackhawk, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Akaisha Blackhawk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am stoked to be where I am today, having an opportunity to serve you. I have experience with crisis intervention, primarily serving young adults and families. I consider myself mellow and empathetic. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. I strive to provide a safe and unbiased place, where we can partner together in identifying areas of concern in your life and develop a treatment plan that works for you. I also offer telehealth options as part of the response to COVID 19 concerns.
I am stoked to be where I am today, having an opportunity to serve you. I have experience with crisis intervention, primarily serving young adults and families. I consider myself mellow and empathetic. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. I strive to provide a safe and unbiased place, where we can partner together in identifying areas of concern in your life and develop a treatment plan that works for you. I also offer telehealth options as part of the response to COVID 19 concerns.
(515) 461-7005 View (515) 461-7005
Photo of Winifred J Hall, MS, LMHC, iadc, Counselor
Winifred J Hall
Counselor, MS, LMHC, iadc
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
Winnie Hall is a certified alcohol and drug counselor (ACADC) and a licensed mental health counseling. She graduated from Iowa State University with a master's degree in counseling. Her previous experience includes working as a counselor at the Women's Correctional Facility, contributing to the development of the House of Mercy program for women and children, and working with dual diagnosis and community substance abuse treatment centers in Iowa and Nebraska. Winnie hall specializes in substance abuse, sexual abuse, post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and trained in eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR, )relapse prevention and domestic violence.
Winnie Hall is a certified alcohol and drug counselor (ACADC) and a licensed mental health counseling. She graduated from Iowa State University with a master's degree in counseling. Her previous experience includes working as a counselor at the Women's Correctional Facility, contributing to the development of the House of Mercy program for women and children, and working with dual diagnosis and community substance abuse treatment centers in Iowa and Nebraska. Winnie hall specializes in substance abuse, sexual abuse, post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and trained in eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR, )relapse prevention and domestic violence.
(515) 705-0704 View (515) 705-0704
Photo of Mandy Moeckly, tLMHC, ATR-p, Counselor
Mandy Moeckly
Counselor, tLMHC, ATR-p
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
I am excited to connect with you, to know you beneath the surface. I am passionate about mental health and utilizing art as a healing approach. Art therapy not only helps you cope with life stress, but also a way to understand emotions, yourself, the world, etc. Art therapy is judgement-free space for all ages and abilities. I come alongside you in your mental health journey as a partner. Together, we will explore options for healing that work best for you. Self-reflection and growth are not easy and will be uncomfortable, but I am a believer that the hard work is worth it!
I am excited to connect with you, to know you beneath the surface. I am passionate about mental health and utilizing art as a healing approach. Art therapy not only helps you cope with life stress, but also a way to understand emotions, yourself, the world, etc. Art therapy is judgement-free space for all ages and abilities. I come alongside you in your mental health journey as a partner. Together, we will explore options for healing that work best for you. Self-reflection and growth are not easy and will be uncomfortable, but I am a believer that the hard work is worth it!
(515) 705-2934 View (515) 705-2934
Photo of Jada Alexander, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jada Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
Therapy can look like so many different things and assist in the healing process in many different ways. I am ready to assist in the journey of defining what therapy looks like for you. I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Iowa State University and a Masters degree in Social Work from Grand View University. I hold a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). I want to ensure the best possible experience is achieved through our therapeutic relationship.
Therapy can look like so many different things and assist in the healing process in many different ways. I am ready to assist in the journey of defining what therapy looks like for you. I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Iowa State University and a Masters degree in Social Work from Grand View University. I hold a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). I want to ensure the best possible experience is achieved through our therapeutic relationship.
(515) 373-8760 View (515) 373-8760
Photo of Michael Allen, tLMHC, NCC, MSc, Counselor
Michael Allen
Counselor, tLMHC, NCC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
Hello, and welcome! By starting therapy, you’ve taken the hardest step, and I’m here to support you in reaching your full potential. I believe you can overcome mental health challenges and trauma as I have. We’ll work together at your own pace in a safe, non-judgmental environment, building a therapeutic relationship based on respect and trust. I specialize in helping clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and many other challenges. My goal is to help you understand your experiences and triggers, empowering you to WIN the battle and give you the tools to achieve mental health and well-being.
Hello, and welcome! By starting therapy, you’ve taken the hardest step, and I’m here to support you in reaching your full potential. I believe you can overcome mental health challenges and trauma as I have. We’ll work together at your own pace in a safe, non-judgmental environment, building a therapeutic relationship based on respect and trust. I specialize in helping clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and many other challenges. My goal is to help you understand your experiences and triggers, empowering you to WIN the battle and give you the tools to achieve mental health and well-being.
(515) 705-6190 View (515) 705-6190
Photo of Joseph Sorensen, tLMHC, NCC, Counselor
Joseph Sorensen
Counselor, tLMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
Life is like a dance between various partners, with each partner leading at a different time. Maybe your life is currently a dance between the past and the future, with the future leading some moments and the past leading others. Or maybe your life is like a dance between holding on and letting go. Or grace and justice. Or action and rest.
Life is like a dance between various partners, with each partner leading at a different time. Maybe your life is currently a dance between the past and the future, with the future leading some moments and the past leading others. Or maybe your life is like a dance between holding on and letting go. Or grace and justice. Or action and rest.
(515) 585-9147 View (515) 585-9147
Photo of Christa Eribal, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa Eribal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
No matter where you are on your journey to a brighter future, I’m ready to walk alongside you. I have been trained in providing trauma-focused therapy, and I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I pull from many other practices as well, so we can work together to find what works best for you.
No matter where you are on your journey to a brighter future, I’m ready to walk alongside you. I have been trained in providing trauma-focused therapy, and I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I pull from many other practices as well, so we can work together to find what works best for you.
(515) 209-3206 View (515) 209-3206
Photo of Pat Petersen, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
Waitlist for new clients
If you are ready for change in your life, therapy is a great catalyst! I am an experienced and competent Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Des Moines, Iowa. I am trained as an EMDR therapist and Sandplay® therapy. Now I am also a facilitator of SoulCollage® which is another creative expression to work with individuals, couples, families and groups.
If you are ready for change in your life, therapy is a great catalyst! I am an experienced and competent Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Des Moines, Iowa. I am trained as an EMDR therapist and Sandplay® therapy. Now I am also a facilitator of SoulCollage® which is another creative expression to work with individuals, couples, families and groups.
(515) 474-7551 View (515) 474-7551
Photo of Marina Blake, MA, LPC, Gottman, Method, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marina Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Gottman, Method, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
COUPLES: Is there a lack of joy in your relationship? Do you and your partner fight all the time? Has there been a betrayal? A lack of intimacy? Couples who use my tools create more joy and connection - permanently. For the cost of a divorce you can instead have the loving, connected, joyous relationship you want. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist, which is the "gold standard" of couples method. NOW Offering Discernment Counseling: if you aren't sure if you want to end the relationship, this is a process to help you gain clarity and confidence about your decision, whatever you choose. Contact me for a free consultation.
COUPLES: Is there a lack of joy in your relationship? Do you and your partner fight all the time? Has there been a betrayal? A lack of intimacy? Couples who use my tools create more joy and connection - permanently. For the cost of a divorce you can instead have the loving, connected, joyous relationship you want. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist, which is the "gold standard" of couples method. NOW Offering Discernment Counseling: if you aren't sure if you want to end the relationship, this is a process to help you gain clarity and confidence about your decision, whatever you choose. Contact me for a free consultation.
(720) 465-8926 View (720) 465-8926
Photo of Natalie Snyders, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Natalie Snyders
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
I recognize the vulnerability and courage it takes to start making real changes in your life. I believe all human beings deserve inner peace, wellness and the ability to live a full and happy life. I also believe this is achievable for everyone and therapy can be a powerful tool to get there! By nature, I’m a systems thinker and like to work in a holistic way with my clients. No two people are alike, and we all have our unique soul signature.
I recognize the vulnerability and courage it takes to start making real changes in your life. I believe all human beings deserve inner peace, wellness and the ability to live a full and happy life. I also believe this is achievable for everyone and therapy can be a powerful tool to get there! By nature, I’m a systems thinker and like to work in a holistic way with my clients. No two people are alike, and we all have our unique soul signature.
(515) 855-6628 View (515) 855-6628
Photo of Danielle Ballard-Green, MSW, LISW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Ballard-Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
Clive, IA 50311
I believe therapy can be a catalyst for new beginnings, a safe place to explore fears, loss, trauma, stress and anything holding you back from reaching your full potential. As your therapist I want to provide a safe place for you to learn about yourself, develop new insights, and heal from past hurts and trauma. I enjoy working with clients 16 years old and beyond. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am an LGBTQ+ ally. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker (LISW) and licensed substance abuse counselor (CADC).
I believe therapy can be a catalyst for new beginnings, a safe place to explore fears, loss, trauma, stress and anything holding you back from reaching your full potential. As your therapist I want to provide a safe place for you to learn about yourself, develop new insights, and heal from past hurts and trauma. I enjoy working with clients 16 years old and beyond. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am an LGBTQ+ ally. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker (LISW) and licensed substance abuse counselor (CADC).
(515) 257-6137 View (515) 257-6137
Photo of Jenna Schissel, MA, tLMHC, Counselor
Jenna Schissel
Counselor, MA, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Hi! I'm glad you're here because I'm so honored that, despite how scary it can be to be vulnerable with someone new, you're ready to make changes for yourself and you're willing to trust me with your journey. You are already resilient, calm, and powerful- I'm just here to remind you how to access that place within you. My approach is informed by my background in psychology and my specialized training in yoga therapy, which allows me to blend the best ideas and techniques from Eastern and Western modalities. This blended approach gives me unique tools to treat the whole, unique person that is you!
Hi! I'm glad you're here because I'm so honored that, despite how scary it can be to be vulnerable with someone new, you're ready to make changes for yourself and you're willing to trust me with your journey. You are already resilient, calm, and powerful- I'm just here to remind you how to access that place within you. My approach is informed by my background in psychology and my specialized training in yoga therapy, which allows me to blend the best ideas and techniques from Eastern and Western modalities. This blended approach gives me unique tools to treat the whole, unique person that is you!
(515) 293-6191 View (515) 293-6191
Photo of Hilary Johnson, LMHC, Counselor
Hilary Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50311
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 12 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 12 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
(515) 375-5576 View (515) 375-5576
Photo of Matt Getting, tLMHC, Counselor
Matt Getting
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
Matt is currently a tLMHC with Full Heart Family Therapy. Matt desires to provide a safe space in his therapy practice and leads with compassion and empathy in order to allow clients to feel like they can be open and vulnerable again on their path to healing. He has an integrative approach with a focus on mindfulness, trauma and person-centered therapy for long-lasting relief and healing. Matt works with teenagers 14yrs+ and adults who are working on relationship issues, abandonment wounds, codependency, anxiety, depression and trauma. He also enjoys working with couples to build more helpful communication and conflict resolution
Matt is currently a tLMHC with Full Heart Family Therapy. Matt desires to provide a safe space in his therapy practice and leads with compassion and empathy in order to allow clients to feel like they can be open and vulnerable again on their path to healing. He has an integrative approach with a focus on mindfulness, trauma and person-centered therapy for long-lasting relief and healing. Matt works with teenagers 14yrs+ and adults who are working on relationship issues, abandonment wounds, codependency, anxiety, depression and trauma. He also enjoys working with couples to build more helpful communication and conflict resolution
(515) 579-5051 View (515) 579-5051
Photo of Ashley Parker, LISW
Ashley Parker
LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
Not accepting new clients
Let's face it, you've been in survival mode for far too long. You're tired of letting intense emotions and past hurts get in the way of moving forward, and you’re ready to take action to build a life worth living. I can help! I'm passionate about working with clients struggling with anxiety, big life changes, emotional intensity, relational trauma, and self acceptance. I'm a neurodivergent affirming provider with both lived and professional experience and a One Iowa LGBTQ+ inclusive therapist. My goal is to help you discover your own power to learn, heal, and grow from adversity in order to find peace, connection, and purpose.
Let's face it, you've been in survival mode for far too long. You're tired of letting intense emotions and past hurts get in the way of moving forward, and you’re ready to take action to build a life worth living. I can help! I'm passionate about working with clients struggling with anxiety, big life changes, emotional intensity, relational trauma, and self acceptance. I'm a neurodivergent affirming provider with both lived and professional experience and a One Iowa LGBTQ+ inclusive therapist. My goal is to help you discover your own power to learn, heal, and grow from adversity in order to find peace, connection, and purpose.
(515) 303-3392 View (515) 303-3392
Photo of Ellie Van Dam, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Van Dam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50311
Waitlist for new clients
I consider myself to be an existential therapist and believe that through suffering sometimes we find purpose and meaning in life. None of us are above suffering. Everyone will experience trauma or loss at some point in life and deserve a safe place to work through those experiences. I know what it is to suffer and have personal and professional experience with trauma, domestic violence, and substance use issues. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important component of effective therapy and place value on providing a non-judgmental, peaceful, safe space to heal.
I consider myself to be an existential therapist and believe that through suffering sometimes we find purpose and meaning in life. None of us are above suffering. Everyone will experience trauma or loss at some point in life and deserve a safe place to work through those experiences. I know what it is to suffer and have personal and professional experience with trauma, domestic violence, and substance use issues. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important component of effective therapy and place value on providing a non-judgmental, peaceful, safe space to heal.
(515) 446-7284 View (515) 446-7284
Photo of Jamie L. Nelson-Kirby, MA, LMFT, RYT-500, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie L. Nelson-Kirby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
I strive to help individuals, couples and families work through a variety of issues and facilitate the change they desire. I provide a safe and comfortable environment to explore systemic patterns and relational dynamics, while fostering personal insight and change.
I strive to help individuals, couples and families work through a variety of issues and facilitate the change they desire. I provide a safe and comfortable environment to explore systemic patterns and relational dynamics, while fostering personal insight and change.
(515) 200-1058 View (515) 200-1058
Photo of Andrew McGinn, tLMHC, NCC, Counselor
Andrew McGinn
Counselor, tLMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
Are you ready to live, laugh, and love again? (Did I really just open my Psychology Today profile by ripping off everyone’s favorite/least favorite home décor slogan?) Seriously, though, life is too short to be miserable. It’s my hope that our time together will empower you to live with more purpose. I approach therapy in an informal way, because counseling doesn’t have to be so uptight. It’s OK to laugh! I spent 23 years as a newspaper feature writer before changing careers, writing thousands of stories. I now want my clients to look at the narrative of their lives and choose, for themselves, the direction their own story takes.
Are you ready to live, laugh, and love again? (Did I really just open my Psychology Today profile by ripping off everyone’s favorite/least favorite home décor slogan?) Seriously, though, life is too short to be miserable. It’s my hope that our time together will empower you to live with more purpose. I approach therapy in an informal way, because counseling doesn’t have to be so uptight. It’s OK to laugh! I spent 23 years as a newspaper feature writer before changing careers, writing thousands of stories. I now want my clients to look at the narrative of their lives and choose, for themselves, the direction their own story takes.
(515) 316-6951 View (515) 316-6951
Photo of Jessica Galvin, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Galvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience bumps and bruises throughout our lives. These bumps and bruises can damage our relationship and alignment with ourselves. We can feel lost, aimlessly wandering around trying to rediscover ourselves. You don't deserve to walk through life just surviving, but rather living with vibrancy and empowered by self-worth. I know how daunting this can be when you have lost sight of who you once were or who you want to become. I work from an open-minded, non-judgmental framework. I believe in a true therapeutic partnership with my clients. Growth fosters growth! Let's grow together to become the best versions of ourselves.
We all experience bumps and bruises throughout our lives. These bumps and bruises can damage our relationship and alignment with ourselves. We can feel lost, aimlessly wandering around trying to rediscover ourselves. You don't deserve to walk through life just surviving, but rather living with vibrancy and empowered by self-worth. I know how daunting this can be when you have lost sight of who you once were or who you want to become. I work from an open-minded, non-judgmental framework. I believe in a true therapeutic partnership with my clients. Growth fosters growth! Let's grow together to become the best versions of ourselves.
(515) 325-1381 View (515) 325-1381
Photo of Sam Pattison, LMHC, Counselor
Sam Pattison
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50311
Has life been feeling like a constant struggle? Do you find yourself working to the point of exhaustion without any sense of satisfaction? Are you concerned about managing your bills and frustrated by feeling undervalued by society? Internalized capitalism may be a contributing factor. This expanding field of study examines the impacts of capitalism on social justice and mental health, with far-reaching effects that likely play a role in the development of many mental health disorders.
Has life been feeling like a constant struggle? Do you find yourself working to the point of exhaustion without any sense of satisfaction? Are you concerned about managing your bills and frustrated by feeling undervalued by society? Internalized capitalism may be a contributing factor. This expanding field of study examines the impacts of capitalism on social justice and mental health, with far-reaching effects that likely play a role in the development of many mental health disorders.
(515) 949-6134 View (515) 949-6134
1

See more therapy options for 50311

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 50311

50+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in 50311 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
82% Trauma and PTSD
76% Coping Skills
75% Relationship Issues
75% Stress
69% Grief

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Wellmark BCBS
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 50311 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
26% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 50311?

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.