Therapists in Champaign, IL

Photo of Melanie Sivley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Melanie Sivley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
Life can be hard. Being a college student can be hard. Life transitions (like starting college) often make it clear that some things just aren’t working. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, alone, or depressed. Emotions, worries, or confusion become overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns. You've tried everything, but nothing has worked. You wonder if it will ever get better. All you want is peace, stability, and confidence in the direction your life is going. To feel good about yourself and your choices. To feel comfortable in your own skin and to believe in your ability to succeed.
Life can be hard. Being a college student can be hard. Life transitions (like starting college) often make it clear that some things just aren’t working. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, alone, or depressed. Emotions, worries, or confusion become overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns. You've tried everything, but nothing has worked. You wonder if it will ever get better. All you want is peace, stability, and confidence in the direction your life is going. To feel good about yourself and your choices. To feel comfortable in your own skin and to believe in your ability to succeed.
(217) 615-1164 View (217) 615-1164
Photo of Kim Greenlee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Kim Greenlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Life is full of transitions and they can be extremely difficult. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed, discouraged and like nothing will ever get better. Even when the transition is your choice - like a new job, going back to school or having a baby, it can feel like you will never settle into a new normal. That can be even more challenging when the transition is not your choice - like divorce, chronic illness, struggling with infertility, or trauma and loss. Transition can be even more overwhelming when it feels like you are going through it alone and don't have any support.
Life is full of transitions and they can be extremely difficult. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed, discouraged and like nothing will ever get better. Even when the transition is your choice - like a new job, going back to school or having a baby, it can feel like you will never settle into a new normal. That can be even more challenging when the transition is not your choice - like divorce, chronic illness, struggling with infertility, or trauma and loss. Transition can be even more overwhelming when it feels like you are going through it alone and don't have any support.
(217) 203-8389 View (217) 203-8389
Photo of Diane Alexander, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Diane Alexander
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Alexander, a Behavioral Psychologist and transgender woman. I also have Master’s degrees in Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis and have completed extensive coursework in Sports/Performance Psychology. I have over 30 years of experience. I am an ally of and advocate for members of the LGBTQ+ community, and I am passionate about providing support for the life challenges individuals may face. I am also comfortable assisting individuals facing challenges presented by most psychiatric disorders, any social or emotional issues, and supporting relationship growth.
I am Dr. Alexander, a Behavioral Psychologist and transgender woman. I also have Master’s degrees in Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis and have completed extensive coursework in Sports/Performance Psychology. I have over 30 years of experience. I am an ally of and advocate for members of the LGBTQ+ community, and I am passionate about providing support for the life challenges individuals may face. I am also comfortable assisting individuals facing challenges presented by most psychiatric disorders, any social or emotional issues, and supporting relationship growth.
(217) 262-9616 View (217) 262-9616
Photo of Daniel 'dc' Crowley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Daniel 'dc' Crowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life.
(833) 954-2018 View (833) 954-2018
Photo of Kai Schamer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Kai Schamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois after completing my clinical internship here at Keri Powell Therapy. I strive to create a warm, open environment where clients can take the time to explore their feelings and circumstances in a way that is comfortable for them. I love working with clients to figure out the root causes of their problems and work together to find ways to resolve them. I enjoy working with teens and adults and am comfortable working with most mental health concerns.
I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois after completing my clinical internship here at Keri Powell Therapy. I strive to create a warm, open environment where clients can take the time to explore their feelings and circumstances in a way that is comfortable for them. I love working with clients to figure out the root causes of their problems and work together to find ways to resolve them. I enjoy working with teens and adults and am comfortable working with most mental health concerns.
(217) 615-5138 View (217) 615-5138
Photo of Jt Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Jt Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I work with adults and I specialize in all forms of anxiety: Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, Phobias, OCD, Agoraphobia. I also focus on insomnia/sleep disturbances, adjustment disorder and depression. I work with couples as well and have completed the Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 3 training. Having been a medical social worker for 15 years, I have a passion for working with healthcare professionals. The occupational stressors of healthcare are unique and I have the experience of having practiced social work in a hospital for many years. I am also passionate about working with people within their faith traditions.
I work with adults and I specialize in all forms of anxiety: Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, Phobias, OCD, Agoraphobia. I also focus on insomnia/sleep disturbances, adjustment disorder and depression. I work with couples as well and have completed the Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 3 training. Having been a medical social worker for 15 years, I have a passion for working with healthcare professionals. The occupational stressors of healthcare are unique and I have the experience of having practiced social work in a hospital for many years. I am also passionate about working with people within their faith traditions.
(217) 689-0667 View (217) 689-0667
Photo of Tasha Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Tasha Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked in the community in various areas including child welfare, residential group homes for the developmentally disabled, managed care, and in a correctional setting. I am comfortable working with populations that have highly complex mental health problems.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked in the community in various areas including child welfare, residential group homes for the developmentally disabled, managed care, and in a correctional setting. I am comfortable working with populations that have highly complex mental health problems.
(217) 436-6150 View (217) 436-6150
Photo of Quanesha Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Quanesha Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
Do you and your partner need a safe space to work through relationships/marital issues? Maybe you and your partner are consistently trying to work through the same issues, but things are not getting better? Or maybe you feel that you and your partner are struggling to communicate or struggling to implement conflict resolution skills. If so, now may be the time for you and your partner/spouse to consider meeting with a professional!
Do you and your partner need a safe space to work through relationships/marital issues? Maybe you and your partner are consistently trying to work through the same issues, but things are not getting better? Or maybe you feel that you and your partner are struggling to communicate or struggling to implement conflict resolution skills. If so, now may be the time for you and your partner/spouse to consider meeting with a professional!
(217) 759-9489 View (217) 759-9489
Photo of Jasmine Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Jasmine Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
Each life transition or stage can bring a combination of uncertainty and hope. Impactful life transitions include moments of processing loss and dealing with grief. Oftentimes, these moments bring on feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loneliness. My job is to offer a secure space to help you through these powerful feelings and difficult times. In practicing from a strengths-based or client-centered lens, some of the most profound moments have been guiding clients to discover their resilience, strengths, and abilities to cope with presenting challenges. Clients of all backgrounds and identities are welcome in my practice.
Each life transition or stage can bring a combination of uncertainty and hope. Impactful life transitions include moments of processing loss and dealing with grief. Oftentimes, these moments bring on feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loneliness. My job is to offer a secure space to help you through these powerful feelings and difficult times. In practicing from a strengths-based or client-centered lens, some of the most profound moments have been guiding clients to discover their resilience, strengths, and abilities to cope with presenting challenges. Clients of all backgrounds and identities are welcome in my practice.
(217) 627-6210 View (217) 627-6210
Photo of Jennifer Duenas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Jennifer Duenas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I received my Master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago in Community Counseling in 2021 while interning at Albany Park Community Center in Chicago. I obtained experience working with English and Spanish speaking adolescents and adults. In addition, I have experience working with depression, anxiety, and other adjustments or emotional concerns. I enjoy an eclectic approach to counseling. I draw from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client/Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Strengths Based Therapy, Multicultural Therapy, etc.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I received my Master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago in Community Counseling in 2021 while interning at Albany Park Community Center in Chicago. I obtained experience working with English and Spanish speaking adolescents and adults. In addition, I have experience working with depression, anxiety, and other adjustments or emotional concerns. I enjoy an eclectic approach to counseling. I draw from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client/Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Strengths Based Therapy, Multicultural Therapy, etc.
(217) 387-8745 View (217) 387-8745
Photo of Brandon Carson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Brandon Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the Metropolitan State University in Denver Colorado with over fourteen years of experience in social work, starting with organizing for labor and community campaigns, followed by working with veterans who were experiencing homelessness.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the Metropolitan State University in Denver Colorado with over fourteen years of experience in social work, starting with organizing for labor and community campaigns, followed by working with veterans who were experiencing homelessness.
(217) 284-2137 View (217) 284-2137
Photo of Cameron Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Cameron Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
Cameron Hunter, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializes in working with those going through life transitions. He also works with people who struggle with anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder, as well as with minority populations who are experiencing challenging life experiences. As a younger professional, Cameron relates closely to and enjoys work with college-aged individuals who are navigating phases of life. In addition, he is passionate about helping children who have a diagnosis or even symptoms of ADHD. He works with couples, families, those experiencing gender issues and even Executive Functioning Disorders.
Cameron Hunter, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializes in working with those going through life transitions. He also works with people who struggle with anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder, as well as with minority populations who are experiencing challenging life experiences. As a younger professional, Cameron relates closely to and enjoys work with college-aged individuals who are navigating phases of life. In addition, he is passionate about helping children who have a diagnosis or even symptoms of ADHD. He works with couples, families, those experiencing gender issues and even Executive Functioning Disorders.
(833) 614-0625 View (833) 614-0625
Photo of Carolyn Cruse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Carolyn Cruse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
I specialize in helping adults who want to explore the impact of trauma and/or improve their relationships with themselves. My goal is to help develop a deeper understanding of the root causes of client issues in addition to addressing current symptoms. I work collaboratively with clients to explore and understand their experiences, to utilize their innate strengths, and to build relationships with themselves that are rooted in self-compassion. I believe strongly that the quality and fit of the therapy relationship is what allows for the greatest positive change for clients, especially when they have experienced relational trauma.
I specialize in helping adults who want to explore the impact of trauma and/or improve their relationships with themselves. My goal is to help develop a deeper understanding of the root causes of client issues in addition to addressing current symptoms. I work collaboratively with clients to explore and understand their experiences, to utilize their innate strengths, and to build relationships with themselves that are rooted in self-compassion. I believe strongly that the quality and fit of the therapy relationship is what allows for the greatest positive change for clients, especially when they have experienced relational trauma.
(217) 207-2902 View (217) 207-2902
Photo of Ghada Abdalla, Pre-Licensed Professional in Champaign, IL
Ghada Abdalla
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
Ghada works with you to better your sense of awareness and focuses on bettering relationships and connections in your life. She is certified in II LEND (Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities). Specializing in major mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Ghada has extensive experience with family/children therapy.
Ghada works with you to better your sense of awareness and focuses on bettering relationships and connections in your life. She is certified in II LEND (Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities). Specializing in major mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Ghada has extensive experience with family/children therapy.
(217) 687-1326 View (217) 687-1326
Photo of Keri Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Keri Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I'm comfortable treating most issues. My strength is the ability to quickly cultivate trusting and meaningful relationships in which my clients find the comfort they need to explore difficult issues and emotions. I most often help clients with basic life stressors and adjustments, but I have extensive experience in treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Co-Dependency issues. I'm most passionate about empowering women and promoting self-acceptance. I encourage exploring the mind-body-spirit connections. My goal is to lead clients through a journey of self-discovery to assist them in arriving at new insights and realizations.
I'm comfortable treating most issues. My strength is the ability to quickly cultivate trusting and meaningful relationships in which my clients find the comfort they need to explore difficult issues and emotions. I most often help clients with basic life stressors and adjustments, but I have extensive experience in treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Co-Dependency issues. I'm most passionate about empowering women and promoting self-acceptance. I encourage exploring the mind-body-spirit connections. My goal is to lead clients through a journey of self-discovery to assist them in arriving at new insights and realizations.
(217) 814-0972 View (217) 814-0972
Photo of Taylor Lindbom, Psychologist in Champaign, IL
Taylor Lindbom
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Not accepting new clients
I feel privileged to have the opportunity to listen, advocate, and help others through my work. My passion is therapy/intervention and assessment with a focus on child and adolescent populations (2 years – 18 years). I aim to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental therapeutic space where you and your child/teen feel heard, empowered, and safe. When working with younger children, I aim for psychotherapy to be playful and fun. I will provide your child/teen tools to steady themselves as they navigate and transition toward a happier, healthier self.
I feel privileged to have the opportunity to listen, advocate, and help others through my work. My passion is therapy/intervention and assessment with a focus on child and adolescent populations (2 years – 18 years). I aim to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental therapeutic space where you and your child/teen feel heard, empowered, and safe. When working with younger children, I aim for psychotherapy to be playful and fun. I will provide your child/teen tools to steady themselves as they navigate and transition toward a happier, healthier self.
(217) 275-2533 View (217) 275-2533
Photo of Gayle J Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Gayle J Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAT, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Hi. My name is Gayle Lewis, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. My deepest passion is to help people heal from past experiences that have hindered growth and kept them from thriving emotionally, relationally, or professionally. I do this by taking a client-centered, strengths-based approach, listening with empathy and unconditional positive regard. While prioritizing your strengths and desires, I will walk alongside of you as we together, map out a pathway forward.
Hi. My name is Gayle Lewis, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. My deepest passion is to help people heal from past experiences that have hindered growth and kept them from thriving emotionally, relationally, or professionally. I do this by taking a client-centered, strengths-based approach, listening with empathy and unconditional positive regard. While prioritizing your strengths and desires, I will walk alongside of you as we together, map out a pathway forward.
(217) 216-1793 View (217) 216-1793
Photo of Ashley Lucas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Ashley Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois. As a former crisis clinician, I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds with a variety of life experiences. I am comfortable working with adults coping with ADHD, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related topics, trauma, depression, and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois. As a former crisis clinician, I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds with a variety of life experiences. I am comfortable working with adults coping with ADHD, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related topics, trauma, depression, and life transitions.
(217) 279-9958 View (217) 279-9958
Photo of Mary Steiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Mary Steiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I am a graduate from the Master of Social Work program at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. It is my dedication and desire to provide inclusive and welcoming services, and to be able to offer a safe space for all individuals seeking to start (or return) to therapy. I would like to be able to support you in any way I can, to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your healing process. It is important that this is a judgment-free zone, so that we can fully focus on connecting so that we can work through whatever is heavy in your lives.
I am a graduate from the Master of Social Work program at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. It is my dedication and desire to provide inclusive and welcoming services, and to be able to offer a safe space for all individuals seeking to start (or return) to therapy. I would like to be able to support you in any way I can, to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your healing process. It is important that this is a judgment-free zone, so that we can fully focus on connecting so that we can work through whatever is heavy in your lives.
(217) 394-5340 View (217) 394-5340
Photo of Heather O'Brien, Psychologist in Champaign, IL
Heather O'Brien
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Dr. Heather O'Brien is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing psychological treatment for child, adolescent, adult, couples, and families. She received her Bachelor's degree from Illinois State University in Normal, IL and completed her Master's degree and Doctoral training at Roosevelt University, Chicago, IL. In addition, Dr. O'Brien completed her internship at Hutchings Psychiatric Center in Syracuse, NY. Dr. O'Brien has experience in outpatient, inpatient, group home, nursing home, crisis call center, and day-treatment settings.
Dr. Heather O'Brien is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing psychological treatment for child, adolescent, adult, couples, and families. She received her Bachelor's degree from Illinois State University in Normal, IL and completed her Master's degree and Doctoral training at Roosevelt University, Chicago, IL. In addition, Dr. O'Brien completed her internship at Hutchings Psychiatric Center in Syracuse, NY. Dr. O'Brien has experience in outpatient, inpatient, group home, nursing home, crisis call center, and day-treatment settings.
(217) 885-2041 View (217) 885-2041

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Champaign, IL

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Champaign, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
72% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Aetna
70% Health Alliance

How Therapists in Champaign, IL see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Champaign?

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.