Photo of Melissa Shanley, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Shanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minonk, IL 61760
My name is Melissa Shanley and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University where I studied to earn my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. I have years of experience working in and supervising community mental health centers, college settings, hospital settings, and as an outpatient therapist to all ages and populations. My professional interests include working with people who have experienced complex trauma/PTSD, family systems issues, and supporting people with attachment, anxiety, and mood disorders.
My name is Melissa Shanley and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University where I studied to earn my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. I have years of experience working in and supervising community mental health centers, college settings, hospital settings, and as an outpatient therapist to all ages and populations. My professional interests include working with people who have experienced complex trauma/PTSD, family systems issues, and supporting people with attachment, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(773) 537-4437 View (773) 537-4437

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachel Lampe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Lampe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, IL 61571
My name is Rachel Lampe. As Licensed Professional Counselor, I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate difficult life transitions, improve interpersonal relationships, mitigate unwanted symptoms related to mental health disorders, and find meaning and hope moving forward. I have previous experience working at a community agency with children, teens, and adults dealing with an array of mental health issues. I am dedicated to helping my clients reach their therapeutic goals.
My name is Rachel Lampe. As Licensed Professional Counselor, I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate difficult life transitions, improve interpersonal relationships, mitigate unwanted symptoms related to mental health disorders, and find meaning and hope moving forward. I have previous experience working at a community agency with children, teens, and adults dealing with an array of mental health issues. I am dedicated to helping my clients reach their therapeutic goals.
(309) 271-0847 View (309) 271-0847
Photo of Sydni Neal, LCPC
Sydni Neal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about supporting individuals who are embarking on their healing journey. I work well with those who seek guidance on managing anxiety, depression, dysregulation, trauma symptoms, relational difficulties, and complex emotions. I specialize in helping individuals understand and alleviate the distress caused by trauma through the use of somatic, Polyvagal, AEDP, and EMDR therapy. I believe in the importance of a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment in order to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences as we work to meet your goals.
I am passionate about supporting individuals who are embarking on their healing journey. I work well with those who seek guidance on managing anxiety, depression, dysregulation, trauma symptoms, relational difficulties, and complex emotions. I specialize in helping individuals understand and alleviate the distress caused by trauma through the use of somatic, Polyvagal, AEDP, and EMDR therapy. I believe in the importance of a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment in order to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences as we work to meet your goals.
(309) 245-8804 View (309) 245-8804
Photo of Hadassah Carlson, MA, LCPC
Hadassah Carlson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced trauma, sexual abuse, religious abuse, chronic pain or illness, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
I help individuals who are experiencing suffering and who want to experience healing and lasting change. Maybe you've experienced trauma, sexual abuse, religious abuse, chronic pain or illness, relational conflict, feeling lost, alone, stuck, or simply feeling like some part of your life isn't working. Maybe you're struggling to feel your emotions, or you're confused about how your behavior and emotions are connected. I will work with you to help you understand the root of the issue and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected and we'll work together to create greater awareness, freedom, and health in your life.
(309) 245-0863 View (309) 245-0863
Photo of Julie Ann Peloza, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Ann Peloza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
(309) 245-0460 View (309) 245-0460
Photo of Lyn Williams, LCSW, EMDR-C, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyn Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
I’m here to help you navigate life's challenges with understanding and support. As a therapist certified in EMDR and trained extensively in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I specialize in assisting adults with anxiety, depression, addiction, phobias, hoarding, OCD, PTSD, and traumatic stress. My approach is all about working together to understand your thoughts, develop skills to manage behaviors, embrace difficult emotions, enhance present-moment awareness, and align your actions with your values and goals.
I’m here to help you navigate life's challenges with understanding and support. As a therapist certified in EMDR and trained extensively in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I specialize in assisting adults with anxiety, depression, addiction, phobias, hoarding, OCD, PTSD, and traumatic stress. My approach is all about working together to understand your thoughts, develop skills to manage behaviors, embrace difficult emotions, enhance present-moment awareness, and align your actions with your values and goals.
(217) 610-5065 View (217) 610-5065
Photo of Shaniqua Tomlin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaniqua Tomlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Adolescents and young adults often face overwhelming pressures that contribute to anxiety and depression. You might feel persistently worried, unable to focus, or drained by everyday activities. Stressors like peer conflicts, academic demands, or relationship struggles can amplify these feelings, creating a sense of isolation or hopelessness. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, often leading to withdrawal from things you once enjoyed. Understanding these emotions and why they persist is a vital step toward healing and regaining control over your life, allowing for more confidence and peace of mind.
Adolescents and young adults often face overwhelming pressures that contribute to anxiety and depression. You might feel persistently worried, unable to focus, or drained by everyday activities. Stressors like peer conflicts, academic demands, or relationship struggles can amplify these feelings, creating a sense of isolation or hopelessness. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, often leading to withdrawal from things you once enjoyed. Understanding these emotions and why they persist is a vital step toward healing and regaining control over your life, allowing for more confidence and peace of mind.
(217) 673-0159 View (217) 673-0159
Photo of Lisa N. D. Flanagan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa N. D. Flanagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
I recently retired from more than 25 years in hospice. I have learned so much from my the patients and families in hospice, both in how they approached dying and death, and how learn they learned to live with grief while still finding joy and purpose in their lives. Both as a guide and a witness, I have helped my clients move through their grief to weave their loss into the larger tapestry of their lives. I believe that people can grow through their grief, in spite of the fact that grief really never ends.
I recently retired from more than 25 years in hospice. I have learned so much from my the patients and families in hospice, both in how they approached dying and death, and how learn they learned to live with grief while still finding joy and purpose in their lives. Both as a guide and a witness, I have helped my clients move through their grief to weave their loss into the larger tapestry of their lives. I believe that people can grow through their grief, in spite of the fact that grief really never ends.
(309) 598-1176 View (309) 598-1176
Photo of Kristen Leman, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Leman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Goodfield, IL 61742
Waitlist for new clients
Not a single one of our lives has escaped pain, hurt, rejection, loss, or other traumatic events. It’s a part of the world we live in; a part we cannot evade. Each generation, the trauma becomes more complex, as it builds on the previous generation’s unresolved trauma. It presents itself as depression, anxiety, fatigue, sleeplessness, trouble concentrating, self-destructive behaviors (including addiction), physical illness, overwhelming guilt or shame, and the inability to form healthy relationships. But it doesn’t have to continue. You can loosen the hold that it has on your life. You can end the cycle of generational trauma.
Not a single one of our lives has escaped pain, hurt, rejection, loss, or other traumatic events. It’s a part of the world we live in; a part we cannot evade. Each generation, the trauma becomes more complex, as it builds on the previous generation’s unresolved trauma. It presents itself as depression, anxiety, fatigue, sleeplessness, trouble concentrating, self-destructive behaviors (including addiction), physical illness, overwhelming guilt or shame, and the inability to form healthy relationships. But it doesn’t have to continue. You can loosen the hold that it has on your life. You can end the cycle of generational trauma.
(309) 271-6108 View (309) 271-6108
Photo of Sarah Hawkins, LCPC
Sarah Hawkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Morton, IL 61550
Sarah Hawkins, LCPC, is a therapist at Syndeo Counseling and has been working with couples, families, and individuals throughout the last 18 years. Sarah has an attachment framework in all her work because human beings are innately relational, social, and wired for intimate bonding with others. Sarah is trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) which prioritizes emotion and emotional regulation as the key organizing agents in individual experience and key relationship interactions.
Sarah Hawkins, LCPC, is a therapist at Syndeo Counseling and has been working with couples, families, and individuals throughout the last 18 years. Sarah has an attachment framework in all her work because human beings are innately relational, social, and wired for intimate bonding with others. Sarah is trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) which prioritizes emotion and emotional regulation as the key organizing agents in individual experience and key relationship interactions.
(309) 857-7187 View (309) 857-7187
Photo of Julieann Robinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julieann Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flanagan, IL 61740
I have been working with families and individual clients of all ages for 10 plus years. I am motivated by helping others work through their unique life experiences. When we struggle, sometimes we need help navigating through life's challenges. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves, and communicate our needs is crucial to our well-being. I am particularly skilled in counseling people with behavioral issues, impulse control, depression, self esteem, anxiety, identity, relationships, and conflict resolution.
I have been working with families and individual clients of all ages for 10 plus years. I am motivated by helping others work through their unique life experiences. When we struggle, sometimes we need help navigating through life's challenges. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves, and communicate our needs is crucial to our well-being. I am particularly skilled in counseling people with behavioral issues, impulse control, depression, self esteem, anxiety, identity, relationships, and conflict resolution.
(815) 362-1547 View (815) 362-1547
Photo of Tashana Turner, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Tashana Turner
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Not accepting new clients
Often times life can throw us some very interesting and sometimes unexpected curve balls. When these occur we occasionally may need help handling, accepting and dealing with them. The biggest step during this time is admitting it can't always be done alone. Nonetheless, pat yourself on the back for beginning the process of healthy self care! My clients come to me with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, family issues, and the list goes on. I love to tell each client, "in order for this to work you have to help me help you!" Meaning, you must be willing to be authentic and transparent for therapy to be successful.
Often times life can throw us some very interesting and sometimes unexpected curve balls. When these occur we occasionally may need help handling, accepting and dealing with them. The biggest step during this time is admitting it can't always be done alone. Nonetheless, pat yourself on the back for beginning the process of healthy self care! My clients come to me with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, family issues, and the list goes on. I love to tell each client, "in order for this to work you have to help me help you!" Meaning, you must be willing to be authentic and transparent for therapy to be successful.
(309) 222-8315 View (309) 222-8315
Photo of Amanda Walner-Cutright, MS, LCSW, PMH-C, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Walner-Cutright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, PMH-C, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you are struggling with your self esteem? Have you experienced depression or anxiety that has affected your relationships, sexual health, and intimacy? Are you experiencing infertility or other grief and confusion related to conception, pregnancy or post partum? I want to recognize this pain that you may be feeling and provide some tools for you to improve your mental health and self-value.
Are you are struggling with your self esteem? Have you experienced depression or anxiety that has affected your relationships, sexual health, and intimacy? Are you experiencing infertility or other grief and confusion related to conception, pregnancy or post partum? I want to recognize this pain that you may be feeling and provide some tools for you to improve your mental health and self-value.
View
Photo of Laurie Krolikowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Krolikowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and present challenging situations. Therapy can provide tools and support to assist individuals in dealing with life's challenges. I use a holistic, strength focused therapy approach to assist you in goal setting to address your problems or challenges. My approach emphasizes a balanced lifestyle through a combination of nutrition/exercise and mindfulness, as well as utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches. I provide a safe and supportive environment empowering you to address challenges and make meaningful changes in your life.
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and present challenging situations. Therapy can provide tools and support to assist individuals in dealing with life's challenges. I use a holistic, strength focused therapy approach to assist you in goal setting to address your problems or challenges. My approach emphasizes a balanced lifestyle through a combination of nutrition/exercise and mindfulness, as well as utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches. I provide a safe and supportive environment empowering you to address challenges and make meaningful changes in your life.
(309) 539-4209 View (309) 539-4209
Photo of Julia M Bozarth, MA, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Julia M Bozarth
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Before I was a therapist, I was an educator. For one course, my job was to teach first responders how to get important information from potentially traumatized witnesses/victims. I often wondered what I would do if I were permitted to see the crisis through. I believe it's my combination of a solid background in communication-which includes relationships, gender-speak, assertiveness and self-talk-and my education in Clinical Psychology and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certification that provide for a well-balanced approach to individual counseling.
Before I was a therapist, I was an educator. For one course, my job was to teach first responders how to get important information from potentially traumatized witnesses/victims. I often wondered what I would do if I were permitted to see the crisis through. I believe it's my combination of a solid background in communication-which includes relationships, gender-speak, assertiveness and self-talk-and my education in Clinical Psychology and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certification that provide for a well-balanced approach to individual counseling.
(309) 271-1161 View (309) 271-1161
Photo of MacKenzie Jones, LCPC, Counselor
MacKenzie Jones
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Hi, I’m MacKenzie Jones, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I’ve been working in the mental health field for 10 years. I specialize in helping individuals who have experienced trauma or distressing life events.
Hi, I’m MacKenzie Jones, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I’ve been working in the mental health field for 10 years. I specialize in helping individuals who have experienced trauma or distressing life events.
(309) 204-9546 View (309) 204-9546
Photo of Kasey Hirst, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasey Hirst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult or young adult (16+) transitioning into any new area of life or has issues related to school, moving, family issues, relationship issues, friendship issues, and more. I also specialize in working with high school, collegiate, amateur, or professional athletes who are wanting to improve their performance in their sport. Ideally my clients will be self-motivated and eager to work on how they can better their focus and their technique in practice, game, and other life settings. I am ready and willing to assist young adults and adults in all walks of life seeking therapy.
My ideal client is an adult or young adult (16+) transitioning into any new area of life or has issues related to school, moving, family issues, relationship issues, friendship issues, and more. I also specialize in working with high school, collegiate, amateur, or professional athletes who are wanting to improve their performance in their sport. Ideally my clients will be self-motivated and eager to work on how they can better their focus and their technique in practice, game, and other life settings. I am ready and willing to assist young adults and adults in all walks of life seeking therapy.
(309) 726-4418 View (309) 726-4418
Photo of Ashley Reynolds, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Ashley Reynolds
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like you're stuck no matter how hard you try to move forward? Our brains can leave us feeling like we are at the mercy of our past. When disturbing or traumatizing events happen, those events can become locked in our nervous system as if we are frozen in time with all same uncomfortable feelings. People, situations, or events can subconsciously trigger those stuck memories leaving you feeling anxious, paranoid, irritable, depressed, or otherwise fearful without an obvious cause. Together we can heal your trauma and allow you to move on from your pain.
Do you feel like you're stuck no matter how hard you try to move forward? Our brains can leave us feeling like we are at the mercy of our past. When disturbing or traumatizing events happen, those events can become locked in our nervous system as if we are frozen in time with all same uncomfortable feelings. People, situations, or events can subconsciously trigger those stuck memories leaving you feeling anxious, paranoid, irritable, depressed, or otherwise fearful without an obvious cause. Together we can heal your trauma and allow you to move on from your pain.
(217) 689-1755 View (217) 689-1755
Photo of Kyle Brand Padilla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Brand Padilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I value focusing on meeting basic needs, developing and executing goals, and providing a space for therapeutic processing. In my clinical practice, I focus on processing and navigating complex trauma and how it affects behavior and wellness. I also offer support to individuals who have relationship concerns, symptoms of anxiety or depression, and uncertainty about their future. Historically, I have worked with individuals who have been impacted by the legal system and can offer clinical case management and accompaniment to individuals who are dealing with criminal and civil-related legal cases.
I value focusing on meeting basic needs, developing and executing goals, and providing a space for therapeutic processing. In my clinical practice, I focus on processing and navigating complex trauma and how it affects behavior and wellness. I also offer support to individuals who have relationship concerns, symptoms of anxiety or depression, and uncertainty about their future. Historically, I have worked with individuals who have been impacted by the legal system and can offer clinical case management and accompaniment to individuals who are dealing with criminal and civil-related legal cases.
(773) 389-1325 View (773) 389-1325
Photo of Sophia Dawson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Dawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am so glad you are here. I am a licensed clinical social worker with a professional background in working primarily with the LGBTQ+ population, Veterans and military families/caregivers, intimate partner violence and addiction. I received my masters in social work from University of Illinois Champaign Urbana (Go Illini!). Book with me now by clicking on my website!
Hello! I am so glad you are here. I am a licensed clinical social worker with a professional background in working primarily with the LGBTQ+ population, Veterans and military families/caregivers, intimate partner violence and addiction. I received my masters in social work from University of Illinois Champaign Urbana (Go Illini!). Book with me now by clicking on my website!
(309) 274-0910 View (309) 274-0910

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 61760

< 10

Therapists in 61760 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Infertility
100% Grief

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 61760 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 61760?

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.