Therapists in Normal, IL

Photo of Heather Holl, Counselor in Normal, IL
Heather Holl
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Many humans suffer from emotional distress and psychological symptoms due to aversive life events. Often times, negative experiences can become “stuck” in our brains impacting how we perceive ourselves, others, or the world. Our beliefs about ourselves can become skewed and negative. As a trauma-trained therapist, I can help you work through these past events and shift these beliefs in order to be able to live the life YOU want to live.
Many humans suffer from emotional distress and psychological symptoms due to aversive life events. Often times, negative experiences can become “stuck” in our brains impacting how we perceive ourselves, others, or the world. Our beliefs about ourselves can become skewed and negative. As a trauma-trained therapist, I can help you work through these past events and shift these beliefs in order to be able to live the life YOU want to live.
(309) 228-2571 View (309) 228-2571
Photo of Peter Klinkner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Normal, IL
Peter Klinkner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Are you in need of some support to help live a more fulfilling life? I am here for you. I have 13 years of experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I will treat you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. l will listen carefully to you and tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
Are you in need of some support to help live a more fulfilling life? I am here for you. I have 13 years of experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I will treat you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. l will listen carefully to you and tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
(309) 760-6693 View (309) 760-6693
Photo of Angie House, Counselor in Normal, IL
Angie House
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel stress or anxiety? Does your life feel out of balance? Although you are managing, you might feel like it takes more effort to do what came easily before. Perhaps you feel stuck, and need some guidance and support to get back on track, and moving toward achieving your goals and dreams. Imagine having a comfortable, supportive place where you can be yourself and begin working to change the things preventing you from moving forward and thriving. When working with individuals, I help them identify, explore, and integrate creative and customized solutions to overcome their fears, break down barriers, and get "unstuck."
Do you feel stress or anxiety? Does your life feel out of balance? Although you are managing, you might feel like it takes more effort to do what came easily before. Perhaps you feel stuck, and need some guidance and support to get back on track, and moving toward achieving your goals and dreams. Imagine having a comfortable, supportive place where you can be yourself and begin working to change the things preventing you from moving forward and thriving. When working with individuals, I help them identify, explore, and integrate creative and customized solutions to overcome their fears, break down barriers, and get "unstuck."
(309) 795-6225 View (309) 795-6225
Courtney Lee
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
I am an experienced therapist who works with people of all ages and with a variety of presenting concerns. I use multiple therapeutic approaches paired with a good sense of humor to provide comprehensive mental health care to all. I work with people with depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, difficulties with stress management skills, relationship problems, and more. My goal is to work with you to help you reach your true potential. If you are ready to make changes in your life please give me a call. We'll get started right away!
I am an experienced therapist who works with people of all ages and with a variety of presenting concerns. I use multiple therapeutic approaches paired with a good sense of humor to provide comprehensive mental health care to all. I work with people with depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, difficulties with stress management skills, relationship problems, and more. My goal is to work with you to help you reach your true potential. If you are ready to make changes in your life please give me a call. We'll get started right away!
(309) 790-3596 View (309) 790-3596
Photo of Julie Ann Peloza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Normal, IL
Julie Ann Peloza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 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 Nicole Wolters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Normal, IL
Nicole Wolters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Helping others is my passion! Our past does not have to define who we are now. We all have the power to make positive choices for a healthier future. Overtime I have enjoyed learning more about ADHD, with special interest in the impact it can have on emotions and the ability to regulate emotions. I value establishing rapport with those I meet with, and feel it is crucial to putting you on the best path to make the changes you desire. I’ve spent the last 7+ years working with individuals in a range of environments like school, agency, and private practice.
Helping others is my passion! Our past does not have to define who we are now. We all have the power to make positive choices for a healthier future. Overtime I have enjoyed learning more about ADHD, with special interest in the impact it can have on emotions and the ability to regulate emotions. I value establishing rapport with those I meet with, and feel it is crucial to putting you on the best path to make the changes you desire. I’ve spent the last 7+ years working with individuals in a range of environments like school, agency, and private practice.
(309) 220-3804 View (309) 220-3804
Photo of Victoria Shirkey, Counselor in Normal, IL
Victoria Shirkey
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
(309) 252-4162 View (309) 252-4162
Photo of Elizabeth Morgan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Normal, IL
Elizabeth Morgan, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients until fall 2024. The thought of meeting with a therapist can be intimidating, and I pride myself in my clients describing me as being very down to earth and easy to talk with. Most individuals who have never pursued therapy before are pleasantly surprised at how much they enjoy this relationship. I work with Willis (Great Pyrenees/Great Dane) who is an AKC Canine Good Citizen and registered Therapy Dog through Alliance of Therapy Dogs. He is available to be present during appointments if desired.
Not accepting new clients until fall 2024. The thought of meeting with a therapist can be intimidating, and I pride myself in my clients describing me as being very down to earth and easy to talk with. Most individuals who have never pursued therapy before are pleasantly surprised at how much they enjoy this relationship. I work with Willis (Great Pyrenees/Great Dane) who is an AKC Canine Good Citizen and registered Therapy Dog through Alliance of Therapy Dogs. He is available to be present during appointments if desired.
(309) 439-9773 View (309) 439-9773
Photo of Gregory Franklin Jenkins, Counselor in Normal, IL
Gregory Franklin Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
(309) 865-5242 View (309) 865-5242
Photo of Luis Figueroa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Normal, IL
Luis Figueroa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761  (Online Only)
My ideal client: I specialize in working with young adults. Life is a unique mix of stress, career related anxiety, and complex relationships. Young adults often seek purpose and mental clarity. My ideal client is not just searching for a decrease in anxiety or depression, but also wishes to improve their academic, career, and personal hurdles. They value privacy and convenience in seeking help. Lastly, they want to build a relationship with a therapist that is at the next stage of life as them.
My ideal client: I specialize in working with young adults. Life is a unique mix of stress, career related anxiety, and complex relationships. Young adults often seek purpose and mental clarity. My ideal client is not just searching for a decrease in anxiety or depression, but also wishes to improve their academic, career, and personal hurdles. They value privacy and convenience in seeking help. Lastly, they want to build a relationship with a therapist that is at the next stage of life as them.
(309) 316-0873 View (309) 316-0873
Photo of Lauren Evelsizer, Counselor in Normal, IL
Lauren Evelsizer
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Not accepting new clients
At times we get stuck and can't quite reach our destination without additional support. Perhaps our methods of coping and communicating aren't working as well as we hoped. We might feel overwhelmed and frustrated by our circumstances and don't know what to do next. Reaching out for therapy may feel defeating in some ways, yet that desire to be seen, feel heard, and find relief is strong. We arrive here with some hope that things can change.
At times we get stuck and can't quite reach our destination without additional support. Perhaps our methods of coping and communicating aren't working as well as we hoped. We might feel overwhelmed and frustrated by our circumstances and don't know what to do next. Reaching out for therapy may feel defeating in some ways, yet that desire to be seen, feel heard, and find relief is strong. We arrive here with some hope that things can change.
(309) 487-2155 View (309) 487-2155
Photo of Julia M Bozarth, Counselor in Normal, IL
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 Amber Williams, Counselor in Normal, IL
Amber Williams
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761  (Online Only)
Amber Williams is Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with 12 years of professional work experience in the mental health field. Amber has experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQI+-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. Amber believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. As an eclectic therapist, Amber will tailor your dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Amber offers clients anAmber Comp open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
Amber Williams is Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with 12 years of professional work experience in the mental health field. Amber has experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQI+-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. Amber believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. As an eclectic therapist, Amber will tailor your dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Amber offers clients anAmber Comp open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
(309) 388-3427 View (309) 388-3427
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, Psychologist in Normal, IL
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(309) 220-3194 View (309) 220-3194
Photo of Blue Skies Counseling LLC, Counselor in Normal, IL
Blue Skies Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS LCPC, CADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to Blue Skies Counseling! I am Rebecca Lynn. Seeking counseling can be a life changing decision. Many people have tried on their own to change behaviors but have been frustrated in the process. I will help guide you in a direction where you see results in your life and relationships. I enjoy the simple language of walking beside another human being on life's journey, that's counseling in my mind.
Welcome to Blue Skies Counseling! I am Rebecca Lynn. Seeking counseling can be a life changing decision. Many people have tried on their own to change behaviors but have been frustrated in the process. I will help guide you in a direction where you see results in your life and relationships. I enjoy the simple language of walking beside another human being on life's journey, that's counseling in my mind.
(309) 245-0816 View (309) 245-0816
Photo of Jackie Vermaat in Normal, IL
Jackie Vermaat
MS, LCPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761  (Online Only)
|| Check out my virtual trauma groups! || Do you feel like your world is unraveling? Life often throws obstacles in our paths blocking our way, and sometimes we feel trapped... stuck and unable to move forward. Our minds and bodies may no longer feel like home. We may feel frustrated, lost, and utterly alone. Our relationships may feel broken beyond repair. And we may even feel like we might be "crazy." >>> Life is too short to be spent miserable in your relationships, suffocated by your traumas, fearful for your sanity, or hustling for your own self-worth. <<<
|| Check out my virtual trauma groups! || Do you feel like your world is unraveling? Life often throws obstacles in our paths blocking our way, and sometimes we feel trapped... stuck and unable to move forward. Our minds and bodies may no longer feel like home. We may feel frustrated, lost, and utterly alone. Our relationships may feel broken beyond repair. And we may even feel like we might be "crazy." >>> Life is too short to be spent miserable in your relationships, suffocated by your traumas, fearful for your sanity, or hustling for your own self-worth. <<<
(309) 724-4194 View (309) 724-4194
Photo of Matthew P Coston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Normal, IL
Matthew P Coston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
As a therapist specializing in career, relationships, internal struggles, and family conflicts, I bring a passion for evidence-based tools and a strength-based perspective to my practice. With a person-in-environment approach, I aim to understand my clients within the context of their unique circumstances and backgrounds. In addressing career concerns, I help individuals navigate challenges such as job dissatisfaction, career transitions, and work-life balance issues. By drawing on evidence-based techniques, I assist clients in identifying their strengths, values, and goals to create fulfilling career paths.
As a therapist specializing in career, relationships, internal struggles, and family conflicts, I bring a passion for evidence-based tools and a strength-based perspective to my practice. With a person-in-environment approach, I aim to understand my clients within the context of their unique circumstances and backgrounds. In addressing career concerns, I help individuals navigate challenges such as job dissatisfaction, career transitions, and work-life balance issues. By drawing on evidence-based techniques, I assist clients in identifying their strengths, values, and goals to create fulfilling career paths.
(309) 455-5234 View (309) 455-5234
Photo of Gina Meyer, Psychologist in Normal, IL
Gina Meyer
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
There is great strength, courage, and insight in recognizing help is needed and seeking it out. I believe people are born with the natural capacity to heal themselves. My role is to help facilitate that process through support, holding hope, and use of therapeutic interventions. My favorite part of therapy is helping people find their own light, strength, and resiliency. I use a combination of evidence-based approaches to help people examine and modify unbalanced thinking patterns, develop self-awareness and insight, and strengthen their relationships. I respect the impact of cultural differences and incorporate them into treatment.
There is great strength, courage, and insight in recognizing help is needed and seeking it out. I believe people are born with the natural capacity to heal themselves. My role is to help facilitate that process through support, holding hope, and use of therapeutic interventions. My favorite part of therapy is helping people find their own light, strength, and resiliency. I use a combination of evidence-based approaches to help people examine and modify unbalanced thinking patterns, develop self-awareness and insight, and strengthen their relationships. I respect the impact of cultural differences and incorporate them into treatment.
(872) 201-3278 View (872) 201-3278
Photo of Elliott Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Normal, IL
Elliott Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
(309) 319-6958 View (309) 319-6958
Photo of Dawn M Leedie, Counselor in Normal, IL
Dawn M Leedie
Counselor, MC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR 2024 *** My job as a therapist is to help when you feel overwhelmed, confused, or lost. This process frequently requires working through the impact of past experiences and/or thought patterns which keep you stuck. Therapy is a process of self-exploration and increasing self-awareness to realize the power you have to make changes in your life. My hope is that with our work together you find insight, confidence, and a more positive way of looking at your world.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR 2024 *** My job as a therapist is to help when you feel overwhelmed, confused, or lost. This process frequently requires working through the impact of past experiences and/or thought patterns which keep you stuck. Therapy is a process of self-exploration and increasing self-awareness to realize the power you have to make changes in your life. My hope is that with our work together you find insight, confidence, and a more positive way of looking at your world.
(309) 518-9286 View (309) 518-9286

See more therapy options for Normal

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Normal, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Normal, IL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Self Esteem
77% Stress
76% Coping Skills
75% Trauma and PTSD
74% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
54% Health Alliance
49% Aetna

How Therapists in Normal, IL see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Normal?

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.