Photo of Jake Bava, MEd, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jake Bava
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
You feel out of control. Life just isn't working out the way you want it to, and it feels like you're taking hit after hit. Whether you're a teen dealing with social stuff or academic pressures; a couple who feels like you just can't figure out how to enjoy each other anymore; or an adult struggling with ADHD, autism, anger or anxiety.....it's just not the day-to-day you KNOW you could be living. Things feel too hard; you don't feel happy; and you're just feeling too familiar with the feeling of defeat.
You feel out of control. Life just isn't working out the way you want it to, and it feels like you're taking hit after hit. Whether you're a teen dealing with social stuff or academic pressures; a couple who feels like you just can't figure out how to enjoy each other anymore; or an adult struggling with ADHD, autism, anger or anxiety.....it's just not the day-to-day you KNOW you could be living. Things feel too hard; you don't feel happy; and you're just feeling too familiar with the feeling of defeat.
(636) 341-4236 View (636) 341-4236
Photo of Tia Jenice Morris, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tia Jenice Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011  (Online Only)
Do you sometimes find yourself staring out the window wondering if you will always feel this way? Has life circumstances left you feeling as if you and your life are a mess, and there’s no chance of it getting better? Asking yourself how you got here? Do you think about the past and wonder about the choices you could have made differently to have a better outcome now? Have you ever thought, “There has to be a way for me to live life without feeling paralyzed by fear, self-sabotage and perfectionism". If you are struggling with feelings of sadness, self-doubt, insecurity, unauthentic, alone, hopeless, and/or stuck, help is here.
Do you sometimes find yourself staring out the window wondering if you will always feel this way? Has life circumstances left you feeling as if you and your life are a mess, and there’s no chance of it getting better? Asking yourself how you got here? Do you think about the past and wonder about the choices you could have made differently to have a better outcome now? Have you ever thought, “There has to be a way for me to live life without feeling paralyzed by fear, self-sabotage and perfectionism". If you are struggling with feelings of sadness, self-doubt, insecurity, unauthentic, alone, hopeless, and/or stuck, help is here.
(314) 675-7078 View (314) 675-7078
Photo of Meredith Roberts, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011
I have 20+ years of experience helping clients create more abundant and fulfilling lives. As a practitioner, life coach and educator, I have expertise in individual, couples & family therapy, group therapy and college-level teaching. My passion is to help clients create an authentic life by finding a sense of life balance and personal empowerment. Sometimes we need a little guidance, encouragement and support to identify and eliminate unhealthy patterns, and uncover the steps needed to make positive life changes. My mission is to help you create a better life!
I have 20+ years of experience helping clients create more abundant and fulfilling lives. As a practitioner, life coach and educator, I have expertise in individual, couples & family therapy, group therapy and college-level teaching. My passion is to help clients create an authentic life by finding a sense of life balance and personal empowerment. Sometimes we need a little guidance, encouragement and support to identify and eliminate unhealthy patterns, and uncover the steps needed to make positive life changes. My mission is to help you create a better life!
(314) 556-0773 View (314) 556-0773
Photo of Skyler Martin, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Skyler Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Tension. Fights. Frustrations. No fun. This is what your relationship feels like now. What once felt like an easy partnership now is on the edge of uncertainty. Perhaps it's the constant arguments over trivial matters or the growing distance between intimate moments. Maybe your relationship has too much silence and piles of resentments are building. It's always something: the kids; the house; the chores; extended family. But as hard as you two try, you can't seem to "get back to each other." Whatever the struggle, the decision to seek couples counseling arises from a shared acknowledgment that something important has been lost.
Tension. Fights. Frustrations. No fun. This is what your relationship feels like now. What once felt like an easy partnership now is on the edge of uncertainty. Perhaps it's the constant arguments over trivial matters or the growing distance between intimate moments. Maybe your relationship has too much silence and piles of resentments are building. It's always something: the kids; the house; the chores; extended family. But as hard as you two try, you can't seem to "get back to each other." Whatever the struggle, the decision to seek couples counseling arises from a shared acknowledgment that something important has been lost.
(636) 228-6378 View (636) 228-6378
Photo of Megan Whittemore, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Megan Whittemore
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Are you seeking a safe and non-judgmental space with a caring provider? You have found the right place. My goal is to help clients utilize our time together as a safe space to discuss personal matters and discover his/her/their own truest self.
Are you seeking a safe and non-judgmental space with a caring provider? You have found the right place. My goal is to help clients utilize our time together as a safe space to discuss personal matters and discover his/her/their own truest self.
(636) 486-4231 View (636) 486-4231
Photo of Whitney Palmer Griggs, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Palmer Griggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
Big Feelings. Little Kids. Whether it’s more tantrums; more notes coming home from teachers; or more stories about issues with friends and classmates, you know something is going on with your child. It makes you sad, worried, and maybe even a little anxious. And worse: you don't know how to help them anymore. The calming techniques of old aren't working; soothing attempts from you seem to change too little; and you're out of ideas of where to go next. This doesn't make you a bad parent, but sometimes you feel like one, and all you're looking for is the right help for your child.
Big Feelings. Little Kids. Whether it’s more tantrums; more notes coming home from teachers; or more stories about issues with friends and classmates, you know something is going on with your child. It makes you sad, worried, and maybe even a little anxious. And worse: you don't know how to help them anymore. The calming techniques of old aren't working; soothing attempts from you seem to change too little; and you're out of ideas of where to go next. This doesn't make you a bad parent, but sometimes you feel like one, and all you're looking for is the right help for your child.
(636) 242-6394 View (636) 242-6394
Photo of Carey DeLargy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carey DeLargy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I believe we all deserve to feel safe and fulfilled in life, and I strive to help you achieve this through your therapeutic journey. Together we will explore your unique history, challenges and goals so that you can ultimately be the best version of yourself. I help clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues or Trauma. I want to create a space for you that is compassionate, free of judgment and inspires change. I consider you the expert on your life and want to use the therapeutic process to help you overcome life's challenges, both big and small.
I believe we all deserve to feel safe and fulfilled in life, and I strive to help you achieve this through your therapeutic journey. Together we will explore your unique history, challenges and goals so that you can ultimately be the best version of yourself. I help clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues or Trauma. I want to create a space for you that is compassionate, free of judgment and inspires change. I consider you the expert on your life and want to use the therapeutic process to help you overcome life's challenges, both big and small.
(636) 597-6583 View (636) 597-6583
Photo of Hillary Ann Haarmann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Ann Haarmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, MO 63011  (Online Only)
Hi. My name is Hillary. I enjoy helping people realize their full potential by providing support and guidance in reaching their goals. I have experience working with adults and teenagers living with stress and multiple mental health challenges. I support people going through major life transitions, as well as adjusting to the many ongoing challenges life throws at us. I believe it is so important to have a neutral person to talk with. I am here to listen, support and offer you new perspectives so you can find your footing and move forward in a way that honors you. Your mindfulness can help guide you. Awareness is the first step.
Hi. My name is Hillary. I enjoy helping people realize their full potential by providing support and guidance in reaching their goals. I have experience working with adults and teenagers living with stress and multiple mental health challenges. I support people going through major life transitions, as well as adjusting to the many ongoing challenges life throws at us. I believe it is so important to have a neutral person to talk with. I am here to listen, support and offer you new perspectives so you can find your footing and move forward in a way that honors you. Your mindfulness can help guide you. Awareness is the first step.
(636) 422-5099 View (636) 422-5099
Photo of Angela Sastry, PhD, LPC, EMDR-C, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Sastry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, EMDR-C, RYT
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking to experience more joy and peace in your life while increasing your resilience and balance? Do you want to improve your relationships? I believe encouragement and acceptance are essential. Therefore, I utilize a holistic person-centered approach focused on you as a whole person. My goal as a therapist is to help you attain emotional well-being, enhance your resilience, and unlock your full potential. By adopting a nervous system approach that focuses on your entire being, body, and mind, you can tap into your innate capacity for healing, resulting in profound personal growth.
Are you looking to experience more joy and peace in your life while increasing your resilience and balance? Do you want to improve your relationships? I believe encouragement and acceptance are essential. Therefore, I utilize a holistic person-centered approach focused on you as a whole person. My goal as a therapist is to help you attain emotional well-being, enhance your resilience, and unlock your full potential. By adopting a nervous system approach that focuses on your entire being, body, and mind, you can tap into your innate capacity for healing, resulting in profound personal growth.
(314) 254-2574 View (314) 254-2574
Photo of Roxie Steward, MAC, PLPC, Counselor
Roxie Steward
Counselor, MAC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011
At some point in our lives, we run out of ways to avoid the pain that has been compiling for years. The necessary coping skills we developed previously stop working and we can feel as if we are coming to the end of ourselves. This is where healing begins. I am a firm believer that you are both capable and driven towards growth and change.
At some point in our lives, we run out of ways to avoid the pain that has been compiling for years. The necessary coping skills we developed previously stop working and we can feel as if we are coming to the end of ourselves. This is where healing begins. I am a firm believer that you are both capable and driven towards growth and change.
(636) 689-1583 View (636) 689-1583
Photo of Sharon Moehle, EdS, BCIA, Psychologist
Sharon Moehle
Psychologist, EdS, BCIA
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
Sharon Moehle provides conventional counseling services and she offers additional therapies such as Biofeedback (several Biofeedback services are offered including Neurotherapy/EEG Biofeedback) and EMDR. Some clients request these newer counseling techniques because they can shorten treatment time. Traditional therapy successfully resolves many issues, yet in cases such as: -issues not responding well to talk therapy alone -clients not responding well to medication -individuals preferring to be medication free...then Sharon provides additional therapies to better address client concerns and better meet individual needs. Sharon has been providing Biofeedback services for 18 years and has been practicing EMDR for 13 years.
Sharon Moehle provides conventional counseling services and she offers additional therapies such as Biofeedback (several Biofeedback services are offered including Neurotherapy/EEG Biofeedback) and EMDR. Some clients request these newer counseling techniques because they can shorten treatment time. Traditional therapy successfully resolves many issues, yet in cases such as: -issues not responding well to talk therapy alone -clients not responding well to medication -individuals preferring to be medication free...then Sharon provides additional therapies to better address client concerns and better meet individual needs. Sharon has been providing Biofeedback services for 18 years and has been practicing EMDR for 13 years.
(314) 561-7075 View (314) 561-7075
Photo of Bob Bertolino, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bob Bertolino
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
We all face challenges. It's how we respond to those challenges that matters. My passion is to help clients is live their lives to the fullest. I have 30+ years of experience as a therapist with individuals, couples, and families in both nonprofit and private practice sectors. My background as a consultant and trainer includes work with residential facilities, hospitals, schools, the Department of Defense, and organizations throughout north America and 11 countries. I have authored/coauthored 15 books and am a Professor of Rehabilitation Counseling at Maryville University and Sr. Clinical Advisor at Youth In Need, Inc.
We all face challenges. It's how we respond to those challenges that matters. My passion is to help clients is live their lives to the fullest. I have 30+ years of experience as a therapist with individuals, couples, and families in both nonprofit and private practice sectors. My background as a consultant and trainer includes work with residential facilities, hospitals, schools, the Department of Defense, and organizations throughout north America and 11 countries. I have authored/coauthored 15 books and am a Professor of Rehabilitation Counseling at Maryville University and Sr. Clinical Advisor at Youth In Need, Inc.
(636) 238-5995 View (636) 238-5995
Photo of Ari L. Holtz, PhD, Psychologist
Ari L. Holtz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011  (Online Only)
We all have periods in our lives when we need a place to discuss life's difficulties. Whether you'd like to improve your relationships or mood, you find yourself worrying excessively, you have experienced trauma or abuse, you struggle with eating issues or body image, or you simply want a safe place where you can explore your life, I hope to provide you with a supportive environment in which to talk openly and feel truly heard. I offer a different perspective, challenging insights and practical solutions to aid you in working toward real and significant change in your life.
We all have periods in our lives when we need a place to discuss life's difficulties. Whether you'd like to improve your relationships or mood, you find yourself worrying excessively, you have experienced trauma or abuse, you struggle with eating issues or body image, or you simply want a safe place where you can explore your life, I hope to provide you with a supportive environment in which to talk openly and feel truly heard. I offer a different perspective, challenging insights and practical solutions to aid you in working toward real and significant change in your life.
(636) 542-8994 View (636) 542-8994
Photo of Medelyn Minor, LPC, CCDP-D, Licensed Professional Counselor
Medelyn Minor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Ellisville, MO 63011  (Online Only)
Feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Relationship problems? Stress at home or work? Struggling with codependency? Counseling can help! I treat adults, teens, and couples suffering from stress, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and addictions. I also work with families, couples, and individuals who struggle with relationship problems, including codependency. If someone you love is addicted or suffering from serious mental illness, you may need help managing your relationship. Don't give up hope! Counseling can be educational, encouraging, and empowering for you.
Feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Relationship problems? Stress at home or work? Struggling with codependency? Counseling can help! I treat adults, teens, and couples suffering from stress, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and addictions. I also work with families, couples, and individuals who struggle with relationship problems, including codependency. If someone you love is addicted or suffering from serious mental illness, you may need help managing your relationship. Don't give up hope! Counseling can be educational, encouraging, and empowering for you.
(314) 292-9926 View (314) 292-9926
Photo of Clayton Brigance, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clayton Brigance
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
My passion in our therapy space together is walking alongside individuals and couples alike on their journey towards wholeness, and to help parents find answers for their child through sound psychological evaluation. I also specialize in counseling couples through infertility - If you are experiencing infertility/reproductive loss, like my wife and I have, I would be honored to hold your story, because your story matters. I also have extensive experience as a certified school psychologist in the public schools. If you are worried about your child, I can provide a psychological evaluation to help you navigate on where to go next.
My passion in our therapy space together is walking alongside individuals and couples alike on their journey towards wholeness, and to help parents find answers for their child through sound psychological evaluation. I also specialize in counseling couples through infertility - If you are experiencing infertility/reproductive loss, like my wife and I have, I would be honored to hold your story, because your story matters. I also have extensive experience as a certified school psychologist in the public schools. If you are worried about your child, I can provide a psychological evaluation to help you navigate on where to go next.
(636) 948-6569 View (636) 948-6569
Photo of Nicole E Ostrowski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole E Ostrowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellisville, MO 63011  (Online Only)
I support the whole family system which can include individual, family and couples therapy.
I support the whole family system which can include individual, family and couples therapy.
(636) 242-8083 View (636) 242-8083
Photo of Jill Baechle, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Baechle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
I am here to put you at ease and truly listen as you share your own experiences of grief, loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and/or learning a work-life balance. As each person has a unique story, I will listen and provide feedback and support. We will navigate your journey together. I use a variety of approaches including a Strength-Based therapeutic approach, Narrative Therapy, Companioning model, and Interpersonal Therapy.
I am here to put you at ease and truly listen as you share your own experiences of grief, loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and/or learning a work-life balance. As each person has a unique story, I will listen and provide feedback and support. We will navigate your journey together. I use a variety of approaches including a Strength-Based therapeutic approach, Narrative Therapy, Companioning model, and Interpersonal Therapy.
(636) 422-0306 View (636) 422-0306
Photo of Brooke Kerbel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke Kerbel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
My ideal clients are women and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma. You might struggle with managing stress, navigating significant life changes, and seeking effective coping mechanisms. You need compassionate support, practical strategies, and a safe space for self-exploration and growth. Your goals include developing resilience, improving mental health, and achieving a balanced, purposeful life. You are drawn to my creative, evidence-based approaches and my dedication to fostering authenticity, compassion, and acceptance in our counseling sessions.
My ideal clients are women and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma. You might struggle with managing stress, navigating significant life changes, and seeking effective coping mechanisms. You need compassionate support, practical strategies, and a safe space for self-exploration and growth. Your goals include developing resilience, improving mental health, and achieving a balanced, purposeful life. You are drawn to my creative, evidence-based approaches and my dedication to fostering authenticity, compassion, and acceptance in our counseling sessions.
(314) 329-4326 View (314) 329-4326
Photo of Judy Hillyer, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Hillyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Ellisville, MO 63011
You're taking a great first step! Thanks for learning a little more about me! Choosing a counselor is important. You'll find me fully engaged and focused on you, with the intention to offer compassion, yet also a plan and strategy to move forward. Dealing with sudden change, ongoing stress, difficult relationships, unresolved trauma or building skills for career advancement can require help. I am respectful of your investment and courage to take this step. Today you can start a happier and more peaceful daily life.
You're taking a great first step! Thanks for learning a little more about me! Choosing a counselor is important. You'll find me fully engaged and focused on you, with the intention to offer compassion, yet also a plan and strategy to move forward. Dealing with sudden change, ongoing stress, difficult relationships, unresolved trauma or building skills for career advancement can require help. I am respectful of your investment and courage to take this step. Today you can start a happier and more peaceful daily life.
(636) 228-6877 View (636) 228-6877
Photo of Steve Brunk, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Brunk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
Are you a first responder, veteran, or individual with a history of trauma, seeking therapy for PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Do you need a safe, non-judgmental space for healing, effective coping strategies, and support for addiction recovery? Do your goals include mental and emotional well-being, improved coping mechanisms, and healthier relationships? If you seek professional guidance, a holistic approach, and practical tools for daily life, valuing a supportive partnership in their journey to recovery and personal growth, give me a call.
Are you a first responder, veteran, or individual with a history of trauma, seeking therapy for PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Do you need a safe, non-judgmental space for healing, effective coping strategies, and support for addiction recovery? Do your goals include mental and emotional well-being, improved coping mechanisms, and healthier relationships? If you seek professional guidance, a holistic approach, and practical tools for daily life, valuing a supportive partnership in their journey to recovery and personal growth, give me a call.
(636) 249-5855 View (636) 249-5855

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 63011

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 63011 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
83% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
65% Trauma and PTSD
64% Stress
63% Grief
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
81% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 63011 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 63011?

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.