Therapists in 85004

Photo of Tonya Koenig-Colsch, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Tonya Koenig-Colsch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Phoenix, AZ 85004
My 27 years of experience as a therapist continues to humble me on a daily basis. The most emotionally courageous people I know are my clients; those willing to navigate and overcome their traumas, manage and eventually master their anxious minds, or overcome the burden of depression. My clinical areas of specialty are Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, and Relational Issues. I particularly enjoy my work with woman navigating life stressors unique to their personal journey and relationship to Self and others.
My 27 years of experience as a therapist continues to humble me on a daily basis. The most emotionally courageous people I know are my clients; those willing to navigate and overcome their traumas, manage and eventually master their anxious minds, or overcome the burden of depression. My clinical areas of specialty are Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, and Relational Issues. I particularly enjoy my work with woman navigating life stressors unique to their personal journey and relationship to Self and others.
(928) 232-6142 View (928) 232-6142
Photo of Renz Narciso, Pre-Licensed Professional
Renz Narciso
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
When school stress, anxiety, or big life changes take over, it can feel overwhelming. I’ll help you build practical skills to manage emotions, navigate identity, and feel more in control at home, in class, and in relationships. With 8+ years of experience supporting youth in behavioral health, juvenile justice, and LGBTQ+ identity development, I understand the challenges you face. As a proud Filipino immigrant, I bring cultural humility and respect for your story. Together, we’ll set goals that matter to you and practice tools you can use between sessions, always at your pace and without judgment.
When school stress, anxiety, or big life changes take over, it can feel overwhelming. I’ll help you build practical skills to manage emotions, navigate identity, and feel more in control at home, in class, and in relationships. With 8+ years of experience supporting youth in behavioral health, juvenile justice, and LGBTQ+ identity development, I understand the challenges you face. As a proud Filipino immigrant, I bring cultural humility and respect for your story. Together, we’ll set goals that matter to you and practice tools you can use between sessions, always at your pace and without judgment.
(602) 780-2894 View (602) 780-2894
Photo of Sukhmani Singh Khalsa, Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Sukhmani Singh Khalsa
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Does it feel like you’re "on" 24/7 but getting nowhere? Maybe your brain won't shut off, or you feel depression, anxiety, and/or trauma, are causing you to repeat the same losing patterns and cause relationship difficulties. You might be "successful" on paper, but internally, you feel stuck in a cycle of stress, low energy and spiraling thoughts. I’m Sukhmani, and I can guide you through a journey of personal growth to rediscover your internal strength, resilience and adaptability. I know the value of accountability when hitting the "reset" button. My approach is informed by my own path through many life pivots that men face:
Does it feel like you’re "on" 24/7 but getting nowhere? Maybe your brain won't shut off, or you feel depression, anxiety, and/or trauma, are causing you to repeat the same losing patterns and cause relationship difficulties. You might be "successful" on paper, but internally, you feel stuck in a cycle of stress, low energy and spiraling thoughts. I’m Sukhmani, and I can guide you through a journey of personal growth to rediscover your internal strength, resilience and adaptability. I know the value of accountability when hitting the "reset" button. My approach is informed by my own path through many life pivots that men face:
(602) 905-6003 View (602) 905-6003
Photo of Michael Harold Cooter - Michael Cooter, MSSW,LCSW,PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michael Cooter, MSSW,LCSW,PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
The most curious question is: what do you want? How do you want to be different? What do you want your life to reflect about you, what you care about, what your values are? Therapists "can" be honest, truthful and direct with clients. I have a commitment to be direct with empathy and compassion to each and every client I work with in my office. Therapy can be solution focused with a clearly defined plan driven by the client. Vague goals, vague results. I shall not make false promises. In my practice, you are purchasing help not window dressing.
The most curious question is: what do you want? How do you want to be different? What do you want your life to reflect about you, what you care about, what your values are? Therapists "can" be honest, truthful and direct with clients. I have a commitment to be direct with empathy and compassion to each and every client I work with in my office. Therapy can be solution focused with a clearly defined plan driven by the client. Vague goals, vague results. I shall not make false promises. In my practice, you are purchasing help not window dressing.
(480) 800-8466 View (480) 800-8466
Photo of Cailin Payson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Cailin Payson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Hi, I’m Cailin! I’m so glad you’re here. You’ve been trying to manage it all, but lately it feels heavier. The stress, self-doubt, and relationship issues keep piling up. Anxiety and ongoing worry might keep you overthinking, past experiences may still affect how you connect with others, or family dynamics might feel complicated.
Hi, I’m Cailin! I’m so glad you’re here. You’ve been trying to manage it all, but lately it feels heavier. The stress, self-doubt, and relationship issues keep piling up. Anxiety and ongoing worry might keep you overthinking, past experiences may still affect how you connect with others, or family dynamics might feel complicated.
(602) 755-1946 View (602) 755-1946
Photo of Gambling Obika - Birches Health, Gambling Recovery Program, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Birches Health, Gambling Recovery Program
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Are you worried about your gambling and unsure of where to turn for help? Birches Health is a gambling addiction specialist. Our providers have over 30 years in the field providing high quality problem gambling care individuals struggling with addiction and their loved ones. Our Clinical Director was awarded the first contract by the state of Arizona to work with problem gamblers, and to this day we remain contracted with the state to work with gamblers and affected persons across Arizona and the US.
Are you worried about your gambling and unsure of where to turn for help? Birches Health is a gambling addiction specialist. Our providers have over 30 years in the field providing high quality problem gambling care individuals struggling with addiction and their loved ones. Our Clinical Director was awarded the first contract by the state of Arizona to work with problem gamblers, and to this day we remain contracted with the state to work with gamblers and affected persons across Arizona and the US.
(833) 918-8092 View (833) 918-8092
Photo of Colleen Casson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Colleen Casson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Have you spent much of your life just going through the motions - staying strong, capable, or self-reliant - while quietly carrying feelings of emptiness? Have you had to navigate environments where parts of who you are were misunderstood, minimized, or not fully welcomed? If so, you might notice patterns of anxiety spiraling, feeling cut off, people-pleasing and appeasing, shame, or feeling stuck. These patterns are intelligent adaptations your nervous system developed to stay as safe and connected as possible, despite the lack of empathy, understanding, and connection.
Have you spent much of your life just going through the motions - staying strong, capable, or self-reliant - while quietly carrying feelings of emptiness? Have you had to navigate environments where parts of who you are were misunderstood, minimized, or not fully welcomed? If so, you might notice patterns of anxiety spiraling, feeling cut off, people-pleasing and appeasing, shame, or feeling stuck. These patterns are intelligent adaptations your nervous system developed to stay as safe and connected as possible, despite the lack of empathy, understanding, and connection.
(623) 286-3713 View (623) 286-3713
Photo of Daniel Jude Nichols, Counselor, PhD, CAGS, MA, LAC
Daniel Jude Nichols
Counselor, PhD, CAGS, MA, LAC
Phoenix, AZ 85004
I offer a welcoming environment to help you pursue personal growth. I can guide clients struggling with anxiety, depression, negative habits, relationships & self-esteem. Students can benefit through increased organization and motivation. You may wish to enhance your self-image, become more assertive, and move toward a healthier lifestyle. My experience as a former CEO can help entrepreneurs overcome the anxiety that risk represents. I also specialize in concentration, focus, and image consultation. My extensive experience optimizing mental dynamics can aid athletes, executives, and individuals seeking peak performance.
I offer a welcoming environment to help you pursue personal growth. I can guide clients struggling with anxiety, depression, negative habits, relationships & self-esteem. Students can benefit through increased organization and motivation. You may wish to enhance your self-image, become more assertive, and move toward a healthier lifestyle. My experience as a former CEO can help entrepreneurs overcome the anxiety that risk represents. I also specialize in concentration, focus, and image consultation. My extensive experience optimizing mental dynamics can aid athletes, executives, and individuals seeking peak performance.
(602) 560-8104 View (602) 560-8104
Photo of Deborah Weir, Counselor, LPC
Deborah Weir
Counselor, LPC
Phoenix, AZ 85004
I work with individuals and couples who want to actively create the lives or relationships they desire. By helping clients identify the blocks keeping them stuck, they are free to explore and experiment with more creative and effective ways of living. Group counseling can be especially helpful increasing self-awareness, creating support and experiencing validation.
I work with individuals and couples who want to actively create the lives or relationships they desire. By helping clients identify the blocks keeping them stuck, they are free to explore and experiment with more creative and effective ways of living. Group counseling can be especially helpful increasing self-awareness, creating support and experiencing validation.
(480) 685-5794 View (480) 685-5794
Photo of Callie Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Callie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients and I provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life. I work with exploring and understanding one's identity, unpacking and processing trauma, managing stress and anxiety, and working through grief and loss. I specialize in gender identity, dissociative disorders, and especially love working with genderqueer and neurodivergent individuals.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients and I provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life. I work with exploring and understanding one's identity, unpacking and processing trauma, managing stress and anxiety, and working through grief and loss. I specialize in gender identity, dissociative disorders, and especially love working with genderqueer and neurodivergent individuals.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Kassandra Terrazas, Pre-Licensed Professional, M.A., MFT-T
Kassandra Terrazas
Pre-Licensed Professional, M.A., MFT-T
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Life can be chaotic, complicated, and full of unexpected twists! BUT that’s exactly why I love what I do. I help individuals, couples, and families untangle the challenges that hold them back, while honoring the unique culture, traditions, and stories that make each person who they are. Growing up in the Hispanic community and working with clients from many backgrounds, I bring empathy, energy, and real-world strategies to every session. My goal is to create a space that feels safe, empowering, and even a little inspiring so you can find clarity, connection, and a life that truly feels yours!
Life can be chaotic, complicated, and full of unexpected twists! BUT that’s exactly why I love what I do. I help individuals, couples, and families untangle the challenges that hold them back, while honoring the unique culture, traditions, and stories that make each person who they are. Growing up in the Hispanic community and working with clients from many backgrounds, I bring empathy, energy, and real-world strategies to every session. My goal is to create a space that feels safe, empowering, and even a little inspiring so you can find clarity, connection, and a life that truly feels yours!
(928) 440-0139 View (928) 440-0139
Photo of Shanna Sadeh, Psychologist, PhD, JD
Shanna Sadeh
Psychologist, PhD, JD
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Do you feel stuck? Does your mind play the same mental record over and again? Do you know what you "should" do but just can't make yourself do it? Have you tried traditional talk therapy and not gotten the help you needed? I encourage you to try therapies that target the mind-body connection to release yourself from these binds. I offer clients Brain Spotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) in addition to traditional talk therapy. These therapies are evidence-based, efficient, and powerfully effective. We are designed to heal but we need help to activate these resources.
Do you feel stuck? Does your mind play the same mental record over and again? Do you know what you "should" do but just can't make yourself do it? Have you tried traditional talk therapy and not gotten the help you needed? I encourage you to try therapies that target the mind-body connection to release yourself from these binds. I offer clients Brain Spotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) in addition to traditional talk therapy. These therapies are evidence-based, efficient, and powerfully effective. We are designed to heal but we need help to activate these resources.
(928) 842-8907 View (928) 842-8907
Photo of Elise Pinkowski, LMSW
Elise Pinkowski
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
I’m passionate about helping others safely navigate distressing emotions, relationship issues, low self esteem and the effects of trauma. Many of the people I work with are stuck in patterns of people-pleasing and self-criticism as a means of survival. These patterns can lead to significant difficulty in managing anxiety, depression, setting boundaries and living a life of authenticity.
I’m passionate about helping others safely navigate distressing emotions, relationship issues, low self esteem and the effects of trauma. Many of the people I work with are stuck in patterns of people-pleasing and self-criticism as a means of survival. These patterns can lead to significant difficulty in managing anxiety, depression, setting boundaries and living a life of authenticity.
(602) 854-9951 View (602) 854-9951
Photo of Heidi Hostetler, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Heidi Hostetler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
When our mental health is good, we experience more happiness, a better quality of life, physical well-being, and more engaging and rewarding relationships with those around us. I am concerned with the total health and well-being of the person I am helping and I want to help you improve life stressors, manage past traumas, or cope with other mental health issues which may be affecting your life and relationships. Sometimes the road traveled to a healthier type of living is a more difficult path than expected; I believe each person can reach their desired destination, through their own process in their own time, when they are ready.
When our mental health is good, we experience more happiness, a better quality of life, physical well-being, and more engaging and rewarding relationships with those around us. I am concerned with the total health and well-being of the person I am helping and I want to help you improve life stressors, manage past traumas, or cope with other mental health issues which may be affecting your life and relationships. Sometimes the road traveled to a healthier type of living is a more difficult path than expected; I believe each person can reach their desired destination, through their own process in their own time, when they are ready.
(602) 353-7465 View (602) 353-7465
Photo of Demecia Pisano, LMSW
Demecia Pisano
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients and specialize in trauma and PTSD and am trained in EMDR. I believe that many of our behaviors, especially in times of stress or difficulty, often serves as ways to help us feel safe, make sense of our environment, and protect ourselves from perceived threats. With that understanding, my goal is to help clients explore and understand the root causes of their behaviors, creating space for healing and self-compassion. In addition to EMDR, I use polyvagal theory and mindfulness techniques such as meditation, grounding exercises, and deep breathing.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients and specialize in trauma and PTSD and am trained in EMDR. I believe that many of our behaviors, especially in times of stress or difficulty, often serves as ways to help us feel safe, make sense of our environment, and protect ourselves from perceived threats. With that understanding, my goal is to help clients explore and understand the root causes of their behaviors, creating space for healing and self-compassion. In addition to EMDR, I use polyvagal theory and mindfulness techniques such as meditation, grounding exercises, and deep breathing.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Caleb Mitchell, Counselor, LPC
Caleb Mitchell
Counselor, LPC
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
You may have landed on this professional profile because you are taking stock of your life and realize that the life you have is not the one you envisioned for yourself. Whether you are bored or in a lot of pain, you may be seeking growth and change, possibly a sense of aliveness. Counseling can be a safe, nurturing setting to slow down and listen to your soul and your body. As you become aware of yourself, you begin to understand how you got to where you are, why you do what you do, and what new paths are possible to you. As a trained therapist from a relational-psychodynamic perspective, I see therapy as a collaborative process.
You may have landed on this professional profile because you are taking stock of your life and realize that the life you have is not the one you envisioned for yourself. Whether you are bored or in a lot of pain, you may be seeking growth and change, possibly a sense of aliveness. Counseling can be a safe, nurturing setting to slow down and listen to your soul and your body. As you become aware of yourself, you begin to understand how you got to where you are, why you do what you do, and what new paths are possible to you. As a trained therapist from a relational-psychodynamic perspective, I see therapy as a collaborative process.
(928) 597-3870 View (928) 597-3870
Photo of Tricia Siegel, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tricia Siegel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Phoenix, AZ 85004
I have been committed to improving the lives of my clients for the past 25 years. I treat anxiety and depression with focused questions and Cognitive Behavioral & Exposure Therapy. Use proven modalities like Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness Practice, and Psychoeducation to help heal trauma and relationship issues. A strong understanding of how people change, reasonable exercises to practice in between sessions, and insight are the key components to treatment. Feel free to schedule your first session on the website below or call to schedule a 15-minute consult today.
I have been committed to improving the lives of my clients for the past 25 years. I treat anxiety and depression with focused questions and Cognitive Behavioral & Exposure Therapy. Use proven modalities like Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness Practice, and Psychoeducation to help heal trauma and relationship issues. A strong understanding of how people change, reasonable exercises to practice in between sessions, and insight are the key components to treatment. Feel free to schedule your first session on the website below or call to schedule a 15-minute consult today.
(602) 459-9610 View (602) 459-9610
Photo of Makya Kirchner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Makya Kirchner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Welcome, and thanks for stopping by. Struggling with transitions? No need to make therapy another one. I offer support by helping you work through tough times and learn how to cope with stressors if/when they show up. I also support those who have experienced trauma, foster care, homelessness, shifts in identity, domestic/interpersonal violence, the criminal justice system, and loss/grief. I strive to make therapy an enjoyable and fulfilling experience and meet clients where they are at in their healing journey. Those who benefit most from working with me appreciate a direct and compassionate therapist.
Welcome, and thanks for stopping by. Struggling with transitions? No need to make therapy another one. I offer support by helping you work through tough times and learn how to cope with stressors if/when they show up. I also support those who have experienced trauma, foster care, homelessness, shifts in identity, domestic/interpersonal violence, the criminal justice system, and loss/grief. I strive to make therapy an enjoyable and fulfilling experience and meet clients where they are at in their healing journey. Those who benefit most from working with me appreciate a direct and compassionate therapist.
(602) 641-3662 View (602) 641-3662
Photo of Julie Huffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julie Huffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients I specialize in working with teenagers and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, family relationship problems, anger, grief and loss, life changes and navigating adulthood. I am EMDR trained and use EMDR to help process trauma. I can help you move from feeling stuck and incapable of change to a place of freedom and relief. In addition to EMDR, I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Polyvagal Theory, Solution Focused and Internal Family Systems.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients I specialize in working with teenagers and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, family relationship problems, anger, grief and loss, life changes and navigating adulthood. I am EMDR trained and use EMDR to help process trauma. I can help you move from feeling stuck and incapable of change to a place of freedom and relief. In addition to EMDR, I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Polyvagal Theory, Solution Focused and Internal Family Systems.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Brandon Jones - Arizona Family Counseling (a service of CFC)
Arizona Family Counseling is committed to providing high-quality counseling and parent coaching services to strengthen individuals, couples, and families. We believe that your past and present experiences and support system greatly help or hinder your well-being and relationships. Our compassionate team is trained and experienced in understanding family systems, trauma, and attachment. We expertly utilize this understanding to help you work through anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, parenting needs, and behavioral difficulties.
Arizona Family Counseling is committed to providing high-quality counseling and parent coaching services to strengthen individuals, couples, and families. We believe that your past and present experiences and support system greatly help or hinder your well-being and relationships. Our compassionate team is trained and experienced in understanding family systems, trauma, and attachment. We expertly utilize this understanding to help you work through anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, parenting needs, and behavioral difficulties.
(623) 462-2036 View (623) 462-2036

See more therapy options for 85004

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 85004

200+

Average cost per session

$148

Therapists in 85004 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
67% Stress
59% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 85004 see their clients

63% Online Only
37% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 85004?

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.