Photo of Emilee Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 97008, OR
Emilee Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
In times of struggle reaching out for help is very challenging. You've taken the first step and I'm glad you're here. My approach is client-centered/relational utilizing evidence-based practices of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Problem-Solving to help you process and move through the seasons of depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, vocational burnout, or adjust to life with a new diagnosis. Therapy is a wonderful tool that can reduce stress and improve function in daily life. I have confidence in your capacity to determine what will bring meaning/peace to your life, identify barriers, and create solutions.
In times of struggle reaching out for help is very challenging. You've taken the first step and I'm glad you're here. My approach is client-centered/relational utilizing evidence-based practices of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Problem-Solving to help you process and move through the seasons of depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, vocational burnout, or adjust to life with a new diagnosis. Therapy is a wonderful tool that can reduce stress and improve function in daily life. I have confidence in your capacity to determine what will bring meaning/peace to your life, identify barriers, and create solutions.
(971) 251-9427 View (971) 251-9427
Photo of Brian Bracelin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 97008, OR
Brian Bracelin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
I strive to create the safest space possible so that past experiences or current stressors can be explored and new possibilities can be discovered. Using a safe collaborative approach, I can support you in maneuvering through your feelings of anger, fear and helplessness so that you can overcome obstacles, achieve your goals and live the well lived life you deserve.
I strive to create the safest space possible so that past experiences or current stressors can be explored and new possibilities can be discovered. Using a safe collaborative approach, I can support you in maneuvering through your feelings of anger, fear and helplessness so that you can overcome obstacles, achieve your goals and live the well lived life you deserve.
(971) 299-7671 View (971) 299-7671
Photo of Phil Freneau, Professional Counselor Associate in 97008, OR
Phil Freneau
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Hello, I am a registered associate counselor with my MA in clinical mental health counseling and I am working toward becoming a licensed professional counselor in the state of Oregon. I have experience working with adults dealing with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger, emotion regulation, social concerns, relationship issues, life transitions, hearing or seeing things that aren’t there, trauma, and paranoia. I also enjoy collaborating with clients to find balance in areas of their lives and working toward building a life that the client feels is meaningful and worth living.
Hello, I am a registered associate counselor with my MA in clinical mental health counseling and I am working toward becoming a licensed professional counselor in the state of Oregon. I have experience working with adults dealing with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger, emotion regulation, social concerns, relationship issues, life transitions, hearing or seeing things that aren’t there, trauma, and paranoia. I also enjoy collaborating with clients to find balance in areas of their lives and working toward building a life that the client feels is meaningful and worth living.
(971) 265-6296 View (971) 265-6296
Photo of Caitlin Ruderman, Pre-Licensed Professional in 97008, OR
Caitlin Ruderman
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, CADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008
Many of us struggle to find joy in life, feel in control of our own decisions and reactions, overcome anxiety, forge meaningful connections with others, or have a strong sense of self. Emotions can be overwhelming, and we can often feel lost in our own heads. Over the last few years, even more of us have found ourselves struggling to find solid ground amidst chaos.
Many of us struggle to find joy in life, feel in control of our own decisions and reactions, overcome anxiety, forge meaningful connections with others, or have a strong sense of self. Emotions can be overwhelming, and we can often feel lost in our own heads. Over the last few years, even more of us have found ourselves struggling to find solid ground amidst chaos.
(971) 801-6356 View (971) 801-6356
Photo of Chloë Frisella Kunst, Professional Counselor Associate in 97008, OR
Chloë Frisella Kunst
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a white, bisexual, non-binary, non-monogamous, and neuroqueer therapist working at the intersections of oppression, grief, trauma, liberation, and pleasure. I strive to create an environment where all parts of you are welcome. I serve individuals needing support to better survive and thrive while living in a world full of trauma. Together we can co-create a brave and curious space for you to ground into what matters most to you. I work to hold a space that centers your dignity and wholeness, inviting in the wisdom of your body, your mind, your life story, the earth, your ancestry, and your cultures of origin.
I am a white, bisexual, non-binary, non-monogamous, and neuroqueer therapist working at the intersections of oppression, grief, trauma, liberation, and pleasure. I strive to create an environment where all parts of you are welcome. I serve individuals needing support to better survive and thrive while living in a world full of trauma. Together we can co-create a brave and curious space for you to ground into what matters most to you. I work to hold a space that centers your dignity and wholeness, inviting in the wisdom of your body, your mind, your life story, the earth, your ancestry, and your cultures of origin.
(971) 251-9456 View (971) 251-9456
Photo of Kit Edwards, Clinical Social Work Associate in 97008, OR
Kit Edwards
Clinical Social Work Associate, QMHP-R, CSWA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Not accepting new clients
I believe that people are more than their diagnoses. I recognize that a strong therapeutic relationship with a client creates a powerful foundation for growth and change. These two values are at the basis of my practice. I am part of both the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities and my practice affirms these and other marginalized identities. I enjoy helping clients embrace parts of themself that society dismisses and categorizes as weird or different.
I believe that people are more than their diagnoses. I recognize that a strong therapeutic relationship with a client creates a powerful foundation for growth and change. These two values are at the basis of my practice. I am part of both the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities and my practice affirms these and other marginalized identities. I enjoy helping clients embrace parts of themself that society dismisses and categorizes as weird or different.
(503) 461-8598 View (503) 461-8598
Photo of Aleisha Maunu, Marriage & Family Therapist in 97008, OR
Aleisha Maunu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner, with stressors in your family/work life, with your child's behaviors/emotions, or with your own personal/inner fears/worries/sadness? Perhaps you are struggling with the question, 'Who am I?' If you are feeling stuck, I can help you. Many people have gone through what you are going through, and there is help out there. I am a licensed therapist in the Denver Metro area with over 20 years of experience in the helping field, and I work with kids/teens, couples, families, and individuals.
Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner, with stressors in your family/work life, with your child's behaviors/emotions, or with your own personal/inner fears/worries/sadness? Perhaps you are struggling with the question, 'Who am I?' If you are feeling stuck, I can help you. Many people have gone through what you are going through, and there is help out there. I am a licensed therapist in the Denver Metro area with over 20 years of experience in the helping field, and I work with kids/teens, couples, families, and individuals.
(303) 351-5143 View (303) 351-5143
Photo of Rebecca Saunders, Clinical Social Work Associate in 97008, OR
Rebecca Saunders
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Becca Saunders. I’m a mental health clinician at Positive Inner Self and a registered Clinical Social Work Associate. I work with adults who are looking for support with grief, anxiety, and trauma, and are feeling motivated and ready to make changes in their lives. My approach to therapy is person-centered and strengths-based, and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship.
Welcome! My name is Becca Saunders. I’m a mental health clinician at Positive Inner Self and a registered Clinical Social Work Associate. I work with adults who are looking for support with grief, anxiety, and trauma, and are feeling motivated and ready to make changes in their lives. My approach to therapy is person-centered and strengths-based, and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship.
(971) 265-6299 View (971) 265-6299
Photo of Karen Patterson Wecker, Marriage & Family Therapist in 97008, OR
Karen Patterson Wecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
I work towards helping individuals create the life they want through analysis and reflection of what is working for them in the present and what has or hasn’t worked for them in the past. My approach is interactive and relational. I look for ways to empower my clients and reframe their experiences in a way that encourages growth. I think that the past plays a role in our present lives and that powerful healing can be achieved through connecting with an empathetic therapist. I will provide you a friendly, nonjudgmental space to do this.
I work towards helping individuals create the life they want through analysis and reflection of what is working for them in the present and what has or hasn’t worked for them in the past. My approach is interactive and relational. I look for ways to empower my clients and reframe their experiences in a way that encourages growth. I think that the past plays a role in our present lives and that powerful healing can be achieved through connecting with an empathetic therapist. I will provide you a friendly, nonjudgmental space to do this.
(503) 743-7710 View (503) 743-7710
Photo of Cliff Robertson, Pre-Licensed Professional in 97008, OR
Cliff Robertson
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
I have worked in Corporate America and for the military. I have played sports and started churches. The breadth of my experiences are wide and my mission is to make a difference in the lives of those I am blessed to work with as a counselor. My ideal client will be between the ages of 12-85, individual, couple or family, dealing with a variety of issues from trauma/ptsd, to depression and other mental health disorders, and potentially co-occurring substance use disorder.
I have worked in Corporate America and for the military. I have played sports and started churches. The breadth of my experiences are wide and my mission is to make a difference in the lives of those I am blessed to work with as a counselor. My ideal client will be between the ages of 12-85, individual, couple or family, dealing with a variety of issues from trauma/ptsd, to depression and other mental health disorders, and potentially co-occurring substance use disorder.
(971) 318-6131 View (971) 318-6131
Photo of Jessie Ricker, Licensed Professional Counselor in 97008, OR
Jessie Ricker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Bienvenidos and Welcome! My name is Jessie Ricker, and I consider myself a well-seasoned, mental health therapist as I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I've worked in a variety of treatment settings including detention, residential, community-based, and outpatient; I have gained experience domestically and abroad. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. As a wife and parent myself, I am very passionate about supporting couples and families within their journeys to build healthy attachments and repair ruptured relationships. I am overjoyed to support you in your treatment journey!
Bienvenidos and Welcome! My name is Jessie Ricker, and I consider myself a well-seasoned, mental health therapist as I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I've worked in a variety of treatment settings including detention, residential, community-based, and outpatient; I have gained experience domestically and abroad. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. As a wife and parent myself, I am very passionate about supporting couples and families within their journeys to build healthy attachments and repair ruptured relationships. I am overjoyed to support you in your treatment journey!
(971) 247-1879 View (971) 247-1879
Photo of McKenzie Haenke, Pre-Licensed Professional in 97008, OR
McKenzie Haenke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults 18+ that struggle with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, depression, chronic pain, low self-esteem, relationship concerns, or really anyone interested in personal growth and self-exploration. I believe we all have an inner guide (whether you call this your gut/intuition, your higher self, or your inner wisdom) that can direct us toward healing, joy, and fulfillment if we allow it to. My goal is to help you access this inner guide and learn to really listen to it!
I work with adults 18+ that struggle with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, depression, chronic pain, low self-esteem, relationship concerns, or really anyone interested in personal growth and self-exploration. I believe we all have an inner guide (whether you call this your gut/intuition, your higher self, or your inner wisdom) that can direct us toward healing, joy, and fulfillment if we allow it to. My goal is to help you access this inner guide and learn to really listen to it!
(971) 287-7164 View (971) 287-7164
Photo of Kylee J Brandt, Licensed Professional Counselor in 97008, OR
Kylee J Brandt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008
I specialize in disordered eating, body-focused concerns, anxiety disorders, complex trauma, and identity exploration (i.e. gender, sexuality, etc). I work from a trauma-informed lens, with a holistic and person-centered approach. I aim to create an affirming space that encourages personal reflection, growth, and self-empowerment through curiosity and compassion. I strongly believe that the mind and body work symbiotically, and that when we become more attuned to our bodies, there is much potential for new insight and a deeper connection to our innate Self.
I specialize in disordered eating, body-focused concerns, anxiety disorders, complex trauma, and identity exploration (i.e. gender, sexuality, etc). I work from a trauma-informed lens, with a holistic and person-centered approach. I aim to create an affirming space that encourages personal reflection, growth, and self-empowerment through curiosity and compassion. I strongly believe that the mind and body work symbiotically, and that when we become more attuned to our bodies, there is much potential for new insight and a deeper connection to our innate Self.
(503) 610-2044 View (503) 610-2044
Photo of LCN Wellness, LLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 97008, OR
LCN Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
As a Detroit lady living in Oregon(and helping Washingtonians) I'm bringing Motor City magic to your doorstep. My goal is helping you powerfully navigate the rest of your life. I work with the other New Kids On The Block which are Trauma, Grief, Anxiety and Depression because if one shows up they all show up! The disrespect is with that group is real and it's time to say goodbye, adios, sayonara to that unspoken entourage. I also have passion for treating Postpartum Depression and Maternal Mental Health. Dad's let's talk about how the baby blues impacts y'all too.
As a Detroit lady living in Oregon(and helping Washingtonians) I'm bringing Motor City magic to your doorstep. My goal is helping you powerfully navigate the rest of your life. I work with the other New Kids On The Block which are Trauma, Grief, Anxiety and Depression because if one shows up they all show up! The disrespect is with that group is real and it's time to say goodbye, adios, sayonara to that unspoken entourage. I also have passion for treating Postpartum Depression and Maternal Mental Health. Dad's let's talk about how the baby blues impacts y'all too.
(503) 376-8063 View (503) 376-8063
Photo of Maci N Elkins Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 97008, OR
Maci N Elkins Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008
Not accepting new clients
I've been working with children, adolescents, and families for 25 years. As a parent myself, I'm familiar with the growing pains of raising a family. Each new day can be an adventure, whether we want it to be or not. I can assist you as you navigate the ups and downs of family life and parenting. I believe it's 'easier to build a child than to repair an adult.' Building a resilient, happy child begins at birth. Fostering resilience in your children through effective parenting and a supportive "village" is a gift they will have the rest of their lives.
I've been working with children, adolescents, and families for 25 years. As a parent myself, I'm familiar with the growing pains of raising a family. Each new day can be an adventure, whether we want it to be or not. I can assist you as you navigate the ups and downs of family life and parenting. I believe it's 'easier to build a child than to repair an adult.' Building a resilient, happy child begins at birth. Fostering resilience in your children through effective parenting and a supportive "village" is a gift they will have the rest of their lives.
(503) 713-6083 View (503) 713-6083
Photo of Nicole Altstadt, Clinical Social Work Associate in 97008, OR
Nicole Altstadt
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Nicole Altstadt and I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP). I specialize in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Trauma-informed Care and Neurobiology of Trauma. I primarily work with people who are experiencing depressive or anxious symptoms associated with traumatic experiences. I desire to help people recover from trauma so they can live healthy and fulfilling lives.
My name is Nicole Altstadt and I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP). I specialize in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Trauma-informed Care and Neurobiology of Trauma. I primarily work with people who are experiencing depressive or anxious symptoms associated with traumatic experiences. I desire to help people recover from trauma so they can live healthy and fulfilling lives.
(971) 299-2866 View (971) 299-2866
Photo of Michelle Ficalora, Pre-Licensed Professional in 97008, OR
Michelle Ficalora
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Hi there! I’m Michelle Ficalora, and I’m a mental health clinician intern here at Positive Inner Self, working towards becoming a LCSW. I’m currently a Clinical Social Work Associate. My pronouns are she/they, and I am trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ allied. I specialize in working with clients of all ages, helping to address both the symptoms and root causes of your stressors in individual or group sessions. I’ll help guide you on the way to reaching your goals, using humor, play, and light physical engagement to keep things moving.
Hi there! I’m Michelle Ficalora, and I’m a mental health clinician intern here at Positive Inner Self, working towards becoming a LCSW. I’m currently a Clinical Social Work Associate. My pronouns are she/they, and I am trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ allied. I specialize in working with clients of all ages, helping to address both the symptoms and root causes of your stressors in individual or group sessions. I’ll help guide you on the way to reaching your goals, using humor, play, and light physical engagement to keep things moving.
(971) 251-2355 View (971) 251-2355
Photo of Andrew Schwager, Pre-Licensed Professional in 97008, OR
Andrew Schwager
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Therapy can be a place for personal growth and insight. We each have a unique history, journey, and growth process. My goal is to support your overall wellness: mental, physical, emotional, and connective. I work with those experiencing a variety of life issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, ASD, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Therapy can be a place for personal growth and insight. We each have a unique history, journey, and growth process. My goal is to support your overall wellness: mental, physical, emotional, and connective. I work with those experiencing a variety of life issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, ASD, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
(971) 251-1964 View (971) 251-1964
Photo of Chloe Lee-Zorn, Psychologist in 97008, OR
Chloe Lee-Zorn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include working with individuals who are dealing with relationship issues, including: a new relationship/ marriage, the end of a relationship, the birth of a child or experiencing a deployed family member. My expertise is in: grief/loss, military service and families, as well as postpartum/ prenatal care. My focused is on mind and body wellness, specifically with consideration for diet, exercise, sleep and relational support. I have a wide variety of experiences in treating people from all walks of life, and I look forward to helping YOU work through your challenges.
My specialties include working with individuals who are dealing with relationship issues, including: a new relationship/ marriage, the end of a relationship, the birth of a child or experiencing a deployed family member. My expertise is in: grief/loss, military service and families, as well as postpartum/ prenatal care. My focused is on mind and body wellness, specifically with consideration for diet, exercise, sleep and relational support. I have a wide variety of experiences in treating people from all walks of life, and I look forward to helping YOU work through your challenges.
(503) 272-6289 View (503) 272-6289
Photo of Base Behavioral Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in 97008, OR
Base Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII, MAC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients, but therapists at my group practice are. Are you using substances and concerned about how it has impacted your health, relationships, career and life choices? Have you been self medicating for stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, low self worth, guilt or shame? Is your mental health getting worse because of your substance use? Have you been sober and you want to continue to manage your mental health to continue to support recovery? Are you wondering if you can control your substance use or if you have to completely stop using? Let me support you on this journey.
I am not accepting new clients, but therapists at my group practice are. Are you using substances and concerned about how it has impacted your health, relationships, career and life choices? Have you been self medicating for stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, low self worth, guilt or shame? Is your mental health getting worse because of your substance use? Have you been sober and you want to continue to manage your mental health to continue to support recovery? Are you wondering if you can control your substance use or if you have to completely stop using? Let me support you on this journey.
(541) 638-0830 View (541) 638-0830

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 97008

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 97008 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
91% Depression
79% Stress
78% Relationship Issues
78% Trauma and PTSD
77% Self Esteem
67% Grief

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

60% Aetna
57% Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
55% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 97008 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
29% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 97008?

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.