Photo of Ebony Therapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ebony Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgeton, MO 63045  (Online Only)
At Ebony Therapy we are dedicated to partnering with individuals in order to assist with navigating through life's challenges. We believe that you deserve a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore issues that prevent you from being at your best. We are committed to ending stigma surrounding mental health treatment and increase awareness within marginalized communities. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you towards achieving your goals. Jasma Morris LPC is accepting new clients. Ebony Hutchinson LCSW is not accepting new clients.
At Ebony Therapy we are dedicated to partnering with individuals in order to assist with navigating through life's challenges. We believe that you deserve a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore issues that prevent you from being at your best. We are committed to ending stigma surrounding mental health treatment and increase awareness within marginalized communities. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you towards achieving your goals. Jasma Morris LPC is accepting new clients. Ebony Hutchinson LCSW is not accepting new clients.
(314) 802-4789 View (314) 802-4789
Photo of Kandy M Smith - Serenity Therapy 4U+, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serenity Therapy 4U+
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My style is open, honest, warm, and down to earth! I derive from a few theoretical approaches-mostly cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused theories. I exhibit sensitivity and compassion towards your life challenges and strongly believe that there are workable solutions to all circumstances. I am available to assist you with your present lifestyle, set goals, and formulate a workable treatment plan. Along with your motivation and cooperation, we will work together to discover your strengths and abilities and apply those gifts to your everyday life so that you may reach your full potential.
My style is open, honest, warm, and down to earth! I derive from a few theoretical approaches-mostly cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused theories. I exhibit sensitivity and compassion towards your life challenges and strongly believe that there are workable solutions to all circumstances. I am available to assist you with your present lifestyle, set goals, and formulate a workable treatment plan. Along with your motivation and cooperation, we will work together to discover your strengths and abilities and apply those gifts to your everyday life so that you may reach your full potential.
(314) 690-9757 View (314) 690-9757
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(833) 765-3937 View (833) 765-3937
Photo of Michael Woosley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Woosley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
M. Brett Woosley, LCSW M. Brett Woosley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 1992. He has an M.S. in Counseling from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and Certification from the Menninger Marriage and Family institute.
M. Brett Woosley, LCSW M. Brett Woosley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 1992. He has an M.S. in Counseling from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and Certification from the Menninger Marriage and Family institute.
(314) 582-8953 View (314) 582-8953
Photo of Nancy Lubowitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Lubowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Nancy Lubowitz graduated with her master’s degree in social work from Washington University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Nancy has over 20 years experiencing working with Adults, individually and in a group setting. She has a special interest in the psychodynamics of relationships with significant others and assists her patients in establishing and enforcing boundaries with positive results in building self-esteem and improvement of overall functioning.
Nancy Lubowitz graduated with her master’s degree in social work from Washington University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Nancy has over 20 years experiencing working with Adults, individually and in a group setting. She has a special interest in the psychodynamics of relationships with significant others and assists her patients in establishing and enforcing boundaries with positive results in building self-esteem and improvement of overall functioning.
(314) 804-7640 View (314) 804-7640
Photo of Charlie Smerz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlie Smerz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Insecurities, traumas, relationship drama, emotional distress--sometimes we get stuck in life's junk and struggle to move beyond it, causing undue pain and suffering. If this has happened to you, you have the power to take back your peace of mind. Let me help you with that. I have a passion to help others work through life's difficulties to cultivate something better. I love working with people of all ages, and I specialize in working with teenagers, those transitioning to adulthood, and adults under 60.
Insecurities, traumas, relationship drama, emotional distress--sometimes we get stuck in life's junk and struggle to move beyond it, causing undue pain and suffering. If this has happened to you, you have the power to take back your peace of mind. Let me help you with that. I have a passion to help others work through life's difficulties to cultivate something better. I love working with people of all ages, and I specialize in working with teenagers, those transitioning to adulthood, and adults under 60.
(636) 238-1879 View (636) 238-1879
Photo of Virginia Eldridge, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia Eldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Virginia Eldridge is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2017. Virginia's therapeutic approach is focused on stress management, working through grief, depression, and anxiety with the use of interventions and techniques that help you to gain a new perspective on life. Outside of work, Virginia enjoys listening to music, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.
Virginia Eldridge is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2017. Virginia's therapeutic approach is focused on stress management, working through grief, depression, and anxiety with the use of interventions and techniques that help you to gain a new perspective on life. Outside of work, Virginia enjoys listening to music, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.
(314) 897-7476 View (314) 897-7476
Photo of Vivian Carr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vivian Carr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Lori Carr is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis with a Master's Degree in Counselor Education. Lori believes in meeting people where they are and utilizing evidence based practices to facilitate personal growth in her clients. She believes that individuals possess great inner strength that simply needs a channel for access. Her main areas of focus include treatment of trauma, concerns related to interpersonal relationships, and anger management. In her spare time, Lori enjoys cooking and spending time outdoors enjoying nature.
Lori Carr is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis with a Master's Degree in Counselor Education. Lori believes in meeting people where they are and utilizing evidence based practices to facilitate personal growth in her clients. She believes that individuals possess great inner strength that simply needs a channel for access. Her main areas of focus include treatment of trauma, concerns related to interpersonal relationships, and anger management. In her spare time, Lori enjoys cooking and spending time outdoors enjoying nature.
(314) 907-3028 View (314) 907-3028
Photo of Elizabeth Volkman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Volkman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Beth Volkman is a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the states of Missouri and Illinois. She graduated from Missouri State University in 1993 with a Bachelors of Science in Child and Family Development and from Central Missouri State University in 1997 with a Masters of Counseling. Beth has been in practice for over 20 years. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, walking her dog and gardening.
Beth Volkman is a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the states of Missouri and Illinois. She graduated from Missouri State University in 1993 with a Bachelors of Science in Child and Family Development and from Central Missouri State University in 1997 with a Masters of Counseling. Beth has been in practice for over 20 years. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, walking her dog and gardening.
(314) 804-0980 View (314) 804-0980
Photo of Gerald Bentley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gerald Bentley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Gerald Bentley is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. He received his Master's degree in School and Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. Gerald works to build a safe and caring therapeutic relationship through a client centered approach. He strives to facilitate growth, self-awareness, and healing. He is a culturally competent therapist and a LGBTQIA ally that understands the importance of bringing cultural differences into the therapeutic process. Gerald is committed to learning and uses he knowledge to work with clients of a variety of backgrounds.
Gerald Bentley is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. He received his Master's degree in School and Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. Gerald works to build a safe and caring therapeutic relationship through a client centered approach. He strives to facilitate growth, self-awareness, and healing. He is a culturally competent therapist and a LGBTQIA ally that understands the importance of bringing cultural differences into the therapeutic process. Gerald is committed to learning and uses he knowledge to work with clients of a variety of backgrounds.
(314) 949-5075 View (314) 949-5075
Photo of Ada Williams, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ada Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Ada Williams, LPC, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate through life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. At LifeStance Health in Missouri, Ada offers therapy services to clients of all ages, from children to seniors, across diverse populations. Ada specializes in trauma-informed care, drawing from over 8 years of experience in community-based and school-based settings. Her extensive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy equips her to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues.
Ada Williams, LPC, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate through life’s challenges with compassion and expertise. At LifeStance Health in Missouri, Ada offers therapy services to clients of all ages, from children to seniors, across diverse populations. Ada specializes in trauma-informed care, drawing from over 8 years of experience in community-based and school-based settings. Her extensive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy equips her to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues.
(314) 970-4785 View (314) 970-4785
Photo of Darcel Tyson, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darcel Tyson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63045
Darcel Tyson, LPC, is dedicated to encouraging, motivating, and challenging clients towards meaningful and lasting change. Serving the state of Missouri through LifeStance Health, Darcel offers a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental environment to support the therapeutic process. Believing that therapy is a collaborative effort, she works with clients to identify internal conflicts and barriers that may hinder personal growth. Together, they set goals and apply the necessary skills to improve the quality of life. Darcel is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Darcel Tyson, LPC, is dedicated to encouraging, motivating, and challenging clients towards meaningful and lasting change. Serving the state of Missouri through LifeStance Health, Darcel offers a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental environment to support the therapeutic process. Believing that therapy is a collaborative effort, she works with clients to identify internal conflicts and barriers that may hinder personal growth. Together, they set goals and apply the necessary skills to improve the quality of life. Darcel is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
(877) 703-3831 View (877) 703-3831

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Menke, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Menke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Do you ever feel like you are reliving the same script but with a different cast? Often, we play out the same dynamics across relationships without noticing how the same conflicts and chaos show up time and time again. I enjoy working with clients to recognize these patterns and collaborate towards striking a balance between empathy and boundaries. As a counselor, I aim to be with you in that discomfort and offer guidance in the process of letting go.
Do you ever feel like you are reliving the same script but with a different cast? Often, we play out the same dynamics across relationships without noticing how the same conflicts and chaos show up time and time again. I enjoy working with clients to recognize these patterns and collaborate towards striking a balance between empathy and boundaries. As a counselor, I aim to be with you in that discomfort and offer guidance in the process of letting go.
(314) 626-8997 View (314) 626-8997
Photo of Audrey Fields, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audrey Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
It is easy to find oneself discouraged, uncertain, tired, and even fearful. It may feel like you have lost the plot in the story of your life, or maybe you’re tired of how you engage with the characters in it. Struggling to hope? Unsure of where to go next or who to turn to? Returning to the same pattern in your life that you know did not work the last time? Maybe you are struggling with depression or anxiety. Maybe you want to break cycles in your life. Maybe you want freedom from the heavier parts of your story. Maybe you and your spouse keep having the same argument and wonder if you will ever feel close again...
It is easy to find oneself discouraged, uncertain, tired, and even fearful. It may feel like you have lost the plot in the story of your life, or maybe you’re tired of how you engage with the characters in it. Struggling to hope? Unsure of where to go next or who to turn to? Returning to the same pattern in your life that you know did not work the last time? Maybe you are struggling with depression or anxiety. Maybe you want to break cycles in your life. Maybe you want freedom from the heavier parts of your story. Maybe you and your spouse keep having the same argument and wonder if you will ever feel close again...
(314) 310-8533 View (314) 310-8533
Photo of Sharon K Palas, MAC, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sharon K Palas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011
Sometimes, often—in fact—life seems to be living us instead of us living life. If we’re honest, we feel disconnected not only from others, but from ourselves as well. This sense of honesty requires courage, and we’re not sure we can quite muster up what is needed to reconnect, to release anxiety and fear, to move into a place of flourishing rather than just surviving. Many of us have had trauma that feels almost unspeakable, insurmountable. We may have things in our lives we’ve never been able to speak about…with anyone. And yet, your story and experiences matter, and they greatly influence the person you are and continue to become.
Sometimes, often—in fact—life seems to be living us instead of us living life. If we’re honest, we feel disconnected not only from others, but from ourselves as well. This sense of honesty requires courage, and we’re not sure we can quite muster up what is needed to reconnect, to release anxiety and fear, to move into a place of flourishing rather than just surviving. Many of us have had trauma that feels almost unspeakable, insurmountable. We may have things in our lives we’ve never been able to speak about…with anyone. And yet, your story and experiences matter, and they greatly influence the person you are and continue to become.
(636) 622-8309 View (636) 622-8309
Photo of Don Wilson, ThD, Psy, AACC, Pastoral Counselor
Don Wilson
Pastoral Counselor, ThD, Psy, AACC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105  (Online Only)
Do you feel like your relationship is stuck in a cycle of conflict, disconnection, or mistrust? My ideal clients are couples ready to break free from unhealthy patterns and create a partnership built on trust, clarity, and shared accountability. If you’re seeking practical tools to improve communication, rebuild emotional safety, and transform your relationship, I offer a balanced approach blending insight, structure, and actionable growth. Together, we’ll uncover the root of your challenges and help you build a thriving, resilient connection grounded in honesty and mutual respect.
Do you feel like your relationship is stuck in a cycle of conflict, disconnection, or mistrust? My ideal clients are couples ready to break free from unhealthy patterns and create a partnership built on trust, clarity, and shared accountability. If you’re seeking practical tools to improve communication, rebuild emotional safety, and transform your relationship, I offer a balanced approach blending insight, structure, and actionable growth. Together, we’ll uncover the root of your challenges and help you build a thriving, resilient connection grounded in honesty and mutual respect.
(314) 794-5621 View (314) 794-5621
Photo of Annie Cole-School, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Cole-School
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing professional, quality counseling to all individuals and assisting them to feel their best physically, mentally, psychologically and spiritually. I feel that I have faced obstacles in my own life that have allowed me to have insight, understanding, compassion and empathy for others. These qualities along with my schooling, have created the knowledge and skills to make a holistic impact on those seeking out counseling. I am dedicated to giving my all to help individuals understand and manage what is standing in their way of becoming their authentic, best self.
I am committed to providing professional, quality counseling to all individuals and assisting them to feel their best physically, mentally, psychologically and spiritually. I feel that I have faced obstacles in my own life that have allowed me to have insight, understanding, compassion and empathy for others. These qualities along with my schooling, have created the knowledge and skills to make a holistic impact on those seeking out counseling. I am dedicated to giving my all to help individuals understand and manage what is standing in their way of becoming their authentic, best self.
(660) 324-5300 View (660) 324-5300
Photo of Margaret Gladden, PhD, LCPC  , CRADC , ICADC , Pastoral Counselor
Margaret Gladden
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC , CRADC , ICADC
Verified Verified
Florissant, MO 63031
I am a licensed clinical pastoral counselor, and, certified alcohol and drug counselor who has a passion for the family. Because the marriage relationship is one of the most important and satisfying relationships we will have, my goal is to help couples to: identify their strengths, and to build new ones; acquire communication and conflict resolution skills; help them to identify stumbling blocks, and then, help them to turn their stumbling blocks into stepping stones. My experience includes forty plus years of marriage and over twenty years of helping couples discover who they are as individuals, and who they are as a couple.
I am a licensed clinical pastoral counselor, and, certified alcohol and drug counselor who has a passion for the family. Because the marriage relationship is one of the most important and satisfying relationships we will have, my goal is to help couples to: identify their strengths, and to build new ones; acquire communication and conflict resolution skills; help them to identify stumbling blocks, and then, help them to turn their stumbling blocks into stepping stones. My experience includes forty plus years of marriage and over twenty years of helping couples discover who they are as individuals, and who they are as a couple.
(314) 282-2986 View (314) 282-2986
Photo of Jaclyn Mixell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jaclyn Mixell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63366
It takes courage to seek counseling, and I am so glad you are here. As a counselor, I work with children, individuals, and families to experience growth and healing. I know firsthand that it takes strength to tell your story and share with another the pain, heartbreak, grief, and more that you have experienced in life. I am committed to seeing my clients flourish by creating a warm environment of connection, support, and curiosity. It is a deep honor to be with you on this journey.
It takes courage to seek counseling, and I am so glad you are here. As a counselor, I work with children, individuals, and families to experience growth and healing. I know firsthand that it takes strength to tell your story and share with another the pain, heartbreak, grief, and more that you have experienced in life. I am committed to seeing my clients flourish by creating a warm environment of connection, support, and curiosity. It is a deep honor to be with you on this journey.
(636) 249-6862 View (636) 249-6862
Photo of Victoria Jane Coronado, MA, LPC, Counselor
Victoria Jane Coronado
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63102  (Online Only)
It can be so difficult to enjoy a “normal” life when your mind is preoccupied with diet, weight, or the size and shape of your body. It’s hard to concentrate at work or school when you can’t stop fixating on your muffin top, and how many calories or “points” you have left for the day. You feel anxious when it comes to being around other people because you fear they’re judging you. You have no idea how you got into this vicious cycle, or how to get out. If this sounds like you, I can help you find your way to making peace with food and your body!
It can be so difficult to enjoy a “normal” life when your mind is preoccupied with diet, weight, or the size and shape of your body. It’s hard to concentrate at work or school when you can’t stop fixating on your muffin top, and how many calories or “points” you have left for the day. You feel anxious when it comes to being around other people because you fear they’re judging you. You have no idea how you got into this vicious cycle, or how to get out. If this sounds like you, I can help you find your way to making peace with food and your body!
(314) 816-2700 View (314) 816-2700

See more therapy options for 63045

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 63045

10+

Average cost per session

$87

Therapists in 63045 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
75% Relationship Issues
75% Grief
67% ADHD
58% Child

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 63045 see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 63045?

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.