Photo of Cristian Rideaux, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristian Rideaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Campo, TX 77437
Hi, my name is Cristian Rideaux, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience working with young adults with anxiety, stress, and depression. I use a variety of modalities such as CBT, DBT, or MI to help my clients make progress toward their goals. I have experience working with many different age groups and mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I work with each client to help them understand their symptoms and find ways to cope.
Hi, my name is Cristian Rideaux, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience working with young adults with anxiety, stress, and depression. I use a variety of modalities such as CBT, DBT, or MI to help my clients make progress toward their goals. I have experience working with many different age groups and mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I work with each client to help them understand their symptoms and find ways to cope.
(469) 833-4680 View (469) 833-4680
Photo of Kimberly Stapert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Stapert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Campo, TX 77437  (Online Only)
Kimberly Stapert Beard, MSW, LCSW has over 20 years of clinical experience. Kimberly strives to build authentic relationships founded on unconditional positive regard in order to facilitate holistic growth, hope, and healing. Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback or an ongoing problem, I can assist you; there is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults.
Kimberly Stapert Beard, MSW, LCSW has over 20 years of clinical experience. Kimberly strives to build authentic relationships founded on unconditional positive regard in order to facilitate holistic growth, hope, and healing. Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback or an ongoing problem, I can assist you; there is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults.
(346) 521-2659 View (346) 521-2659
Photo of Tara Hayes, LCSW, RYT, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
El Campo, TX 77437
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, past traumas, work/life interpersonal or relationship stressors? With over 7 years of experience, I am skilled at helping clients to quickly identify their strengths to determine the direction and depth of therapy. I integrate talk therapy and mindfulness practices to guide clients toward feeling better and finding the answers they seek within themselves. Clients I work with quickly decide their level of commitment, and begin exploring how core beliefs, thoughts and past experiences impact them in the here and now, therefore improving insight and power to change.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, past traumas, work/life interpersonal or relationship stressors? With over 7 years of experience, I am skilled at helping clients to quickly identify their strengths to determine the direction and depth of therapy. I integrate talk therapy and mindfulness practices to guide clients toward feeling better and finding the answers they seek within themselves. Clients I work with quickly decide their level of commitment, and begin exploring how core beliefs, thoughts and past experiences impact them in the here and now, therefore improving insight and power to change.
(979) 364-5306 View (979) 364-5306

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tanya Kort, LPC, Psychologist
Tanya Kort
Psychologist, LPC
Verified Verified
Van Vleck, TX 77482
Aloha – I’m Tanya Kort! I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. I’m a Licensed Psychologist and I hold licenses in Texas and Florida. I believe that the messages we send ourselves have the power to impact behavior and trigger automatic responses. For me, therapy is often about helping individuals take back any power they have given away. When I’m not practicing therapy, I enjoy reading, auto-crossing, traveling and dancing the hula. I started off teaching students with dyslexia and comorbid learning disabilities in Hawaii for 7½ years. I went on to be the Principal of the Dyslexia Association of Singapore for 2 years.
Aloha – I’m Tanya Kort! I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. I’m a Licensed Psychologist and I hold licenses in Texas and Florida. I believe that the messages we send ourselves have the power to impact behavior and trigger automatic responses. For me, therapy is often about helping individuals take back any power they have given away. When I’m not practicing therapy, I enjoy reading, auto-crossing, traveling and dancing the hula. I started off teaching students with dyslexia and comorbid learning disabilities in Hawaii for 7½ years. I went on to be the Principal of the Dyslexia Association of Singapore for 2 years.
(346) 660-5099 View (346) 660-5099
Photo of Yolanda Lowery, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yolanda Lowery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bay City, TX 77414  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Yolanda Lowery. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor in the state of Texas with over 11 years of experience. My specialties include, but are not limited to, the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorder, and ADHD. My theoretical approach in my practice includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused. I like to inspire others through their difficult moments, and also to act as a point of reflection to offer continued personal development for my clients.
Hello, I'm Yolanda Lowery. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor in the state of Texas with over 11 years of experience. My specialties include, but are not limited to, the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorder, and ADHD. My theoretical approach in my practice includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused. I like to inspire others through their difficult moments, and also to act as a point of reflection to offer continued personal development for my clients.
(855) 694-5870 View (855) 694-5870
Photo of Cynthia Barnes, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boling, TX 77420  (Online Only)
Imagine feeling lighter, stronger, and fully present in your life — no longer weighed down by painful memories or anxiety about the future. Imagine waking up with more clarity, confidence, and control, able to reconnect with the things that truly matter to you, whether it's a fulfilling career, stronger family bonds, or simply peace of mind. At Caney Creek Counseling Center, we understand the challenges trauma survivors face and are here to help adults rediscover a life beyond their past experiences.
Imagine feeling lighter, stronger, and fully present in your life — no longer weighed down by painful memories or anxiety about the future. Imagine waking up with more clarity, confidence, and control, able to reconnect with the things that truly matter to you, whether it's a fulfilling career, stronger family bonds, or simply peace of mind. At Caney Creek Counseling Center, we understand the challenges trauma survivors face and are here to help adults rediscover a life beyond their past experiences.
(979) 356-2724 View (979) 356-2724
Photo of Hallie Behrens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hallie Behrens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ganado, TX 77962
Hi! I'm Hallie Behrens. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing since 2009. I generally take a behavioral approach to therapy where we will focus on addressing thought patterns and behavior collaboratively. My approach will vary though, depending on the needs of the individual. I have found my approach works best with teens and adults dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or everyday challenges.
Hi! I'm Hallie Behrens. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing since 2009. I generally take a behavioral approach to therapy where we will focus on addressing thought patterns and behavior collaboratively. My approach will vary though, depending on the needs of the individual. I have found my approach works best with teens and adults dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or everyday challenges.
(346) 522-4611 View (346) 522-4611
Photo of Catherine Lunde - The Woodlands Family Counseling Center, PLLC
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
(936) 463-8185 View (936) 463-8185
Photo of DeVaunier Cannon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeVaunier Cannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ganado, TX 77962
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas. The University of Texas at Arlington is where I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work. Being in the helping profession is what I wanted to do since I was a child. My professional experience began in 2016, as a therapist/case manager/discharge planner at a mental health hospital. Working with people in crisis was difficult, but it gave me an opportunity to learn how to handle crisis situations such as people who were suicidal/homicidal, severe depression and anxiety, struggling with psychosis, substance abuse and detoxing, and victims/perpetrators of abuse.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas. The University of Texas at Arlington is where I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work. Being in the helping profession is what I wanted to do since I was a child. My professional experience began in 2016, as a therapist/case manager/discharge planner at a mental health hospital. Working with people in crisis was difficult, but it gave me an opportunity to learn how to handle crisis situations such as people who were suicidal/homicidal, severe depression and anxiety, struggling with psychosis, substance abuse and detoxing, and victims/perpetrators of abuse.
(430) 233-5352 View (430) 233-5352
Photo of Danielle Scott, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bay City, TX 77414  (Online Only)
I used to have some fluffy sounding paragraph here, but then I went to find my own therapist at some point, and it was overwhelming reading a bunch of words that don't tell you much. So, if you want a therapist who is just as weird as you are and doesn't care if you say the f word in therapy, come see me! All the relevant therapy-related info should be in this profile somewhere, but if you have any questions, you are more than welcome to text us directly at (512) 270-1918. Texting is the best way to reach us. We have three therapists in case you don't like me. :)
I used to have some fluffy sounding paragraph here, but then I went to find my own therapist at some point, and it was overwhelming reading a bunch of words that don't tell you much. So, if you want a therapist who is just as weird as you are and doesn't care if you say the f word in therapy, come see me! All the relevant therapy-related info should be in this profile somewhere, but if you have any questions, you are more than welcome to text us directly at (512) 270-1918. Texting is the best way to reach us. We have three therapists in case you don't like me. :)
(737) 286-8293 View (737) 286-8293
Photo of Joshua Aevum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Aevum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wharton, TX 77488
Thank you for visiting this profile! I am a licensed clinical social worker currently accepting new patients for individual therapy. Starting treatment is challenging, but the process can often lead to positive change. I will provide a comprehensive and collaborative approach tailored to your needs. My passion is working with clients who struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and addiction. There are a wide variety of therapeutic models to target symptoms, and I am trained in providing the most effective therapy models of Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectal Behavioral, and Motivational Interviewing.
Thank you for visiting this profile! I am a licensed clinical social worker currently accepting new patients for individual therapy. Starting treatment is challenging, but the process can often lead to positive change. I will provide a comprehensive and collaborative approach tailored to your needs. My passion is working with clients who struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and addiction. There are a wide variety of therapeutic models to target symptoms, and I am trained in providing the most effective therapy models of Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectal Behavioral, and Motivational Interviewing.
(432) 278-1636 View (432) 278-1636
Photo of Charles May, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
East Bernard, TX 77435  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Charles May, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, dedicated to helping adults navigate unforeseen complexity and stress in their lives. I enjoy the privilege of walking with people on their journeys and seeing the transformations in their lives. I get to celebrate as people can go from a place of doubt and unhealthy beliefs to one of optimism and self-confidence.
Hello! I am Charles May, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, dedicated to helping adults navigate unforeseen complexity and stress in their lives. I enjoy the privilege of walking with people on their journeys and seeing the transformations in their lives. I get to celebrate as people can go from a place of doubt and unhealthy beliefs to one of optimism and self-confidence.
(979) 428-2942 View (979) 428-2942
Photo of Renese M Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renese M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bay City, TX 77414  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
(512) 559-1636 View (512) 559-1636
Photo of Vincent Hochstatter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Hochstatter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edna, TX 77957
Welcome! My name is Vincent Hochstatter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with over 10 years experience in the mental health field serving individuals, adolescents and families. I specialize in several issues in including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and life transitions, amongst others.
Welcome! My name is Vincent Hochstatter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with over 10 years experience in the mental health field serving individuals, adolescents and families. I specialize in several issues in including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and life transitions, amongst others.
(210) 672-1658 View (210) 672-1658
Photo of Danielle Mikeska, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Mikeska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Van Vleck, TX 77482  (Online Only)
My name is Danielle Mikeska, M.Ed, LPC. I enjoy working with clients struggling with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, couples issues, and stress. Life is full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. Maybe you are worried that no one can understand or relate to your situation. Whether you need help navigating the turns of life, bringing yourself up from the downs, or just celebrating the ups, I am here. We all handle life differently, and that is perfectly okay! My focus is to help you figure out what is not working and find what will.
My name is Danielle Mikeska, M.Ed, LPC. I enjoy working with clients struggling with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, couples issues, and stress. Life is full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. Maybe you are worried that no one can understand or relate to your situation. Whether you need help navigating the turns of life, bringing yourself up from the downs, or just celebrating the ups, I am here. We all handle life differently, and that is perfectly okay! My focus is to help you figure out what is not working and find what will.
(817) 678-0936 View (817) 678-0936
Photo of Kim Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eagle Lake, TX 77434
Hi, I'm Kim! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of clinical experience providing psychotherapy & counseling for highly-motivated adults and clients experiencing stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and grief & loss. I often use CBT, Mindfulness-Based CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, and Humanistic therapy in my work. I believe that it is my pleasure to support clients in overcoming obstacles to living happier and more satisfying lives.
Hi, I'm Kim! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of clinical experience providing psychotherapy & counseling for highly-motivated adults and clients experiencing stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and grief & loss. I often use CBT, Mindfulness-Based CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, and Humanistic therapy in my work. I believe that it is my pleasure to support clients in overcoming obstacles to living happier and more satisfying lives.
(469) 772-5791 View (469) 772-5791
Photo of Ayla Toles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayla Toles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rock Island, TX 77470  (Online Only)
I believe in creating a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My collaborative approach is tailored to your unique needs, focusing on empowering you to develop practical coping strategies.
I believe in creating a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My collaborative approach is tailored to your unique needs, focusing on empowering you to develop practical coping strategies.
(346) 521-5776 View (346) 521-5776
Photo of Maribelle Lock, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maribelle Lock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Louise, TX 77455
There is no doubt that life can get hard, and sometimes we just need to talk about it. I use a very heartfelt and humanistic approach when it comes to therapy because as a human being myself, I have seen my own share of adversity and strife. I use a cognitive behavioral approach as well. I truly believe the way one thinks greatly influences their emotions and behaviors. Every person has a story, and I seek to get to know that story. I feel in order to truly understand where one is in life, it is important to understand where they have been.
There is no doubt that life can get hard, and sometimes we just need to talk about it. I use a very heartfelt and humanistic approach when it comes to therapy because as a human being myself, I have seen my own share of adversity and strife. I use a cognitive behavioral approach as well. I truly believe the way one thinks greatly influences their emotions and behaviors. Every person has a story, and I seek to get to know that story. I feel in order to truly understand where one is in life, it is important to understand where they have been.
(469) 599-4023 View (469) 599-4023
Photo of Mary Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Garwood, TX 77442
Hi there, my name is Mary Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. My expertise and training are working with adults during significant life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, perpetrators, and victims of domestic violence. ​I utilize several theoretical approaches, including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Jungian. I believe that our journey together will be collaborative and productive when I follow and go at the pace that you want.
Hi there, my name is Mary Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. My expertise and training are working with adults during significant life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, perpetrators, and victims of domestic violence. ​I utilize several theoretical approaches, including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Jungian. I believe that our journey together will be collaborative and productive when I follow and go at the pace that you want.
(469) 772-4366 View (469) 772-4366
Photo of Angie Gomez - Thrive in Vida Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive in Vida Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bay City, TX 77414
Tired, fatigued, or exhausted from carrying around extra baggage? Trauma can happen to anyone and can affect your life in so many ways. Work towards your goals and increase your quality of life. Therapy can help you reach your goals and thrive. Seeking couples counseling? Through guidance and therapeutic techniques, our marriage and family counselor assists couples in developing healthier dynamics and achieving a deeper understanding of each other.
Tired, fatigued, or exhausted from carrying around extra baggage? Trauma can happen to anyone and can affect your life in so many ways. Work towards your goals and increase your quality of life. Therapy can help you reach your goals and thrive. Seeking couples counseling? Through guidance and therapeutic techniques, our marriage and family counselor assists couples in developing healthier dynamics and achieving a deeper understanding of each other.
(979) 388-7950 View (979) 388-7950

See more therapy options for 77437

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 77437

< 10

Therapists in 77437 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Coping Skills
67% Relationship Issues
67% Depression
67% Grief
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Therapists in 77437 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 77437?

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.