Therapists in 98083

Photo of Jade Fahid, Pre-Licensed Professional, Pre, License
Jade Fahid
Pre-Licensed Professional, Pre, License
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I became a therapist because I’m passionate about helping people heal, grow, and regain a sense of control in their lives. My journey into this work was driven by a deep desire to support those navigating trauma, stress, and life’s transitions. I believe healing happens through connection—both with ourselves and others—and that belief guides my approach. Providing compassionate, trauma-informed care isn’t just my work; it’s my calling. I’m here to walk alongside you as you reclaim your strength and move toward healing.
I became a therapist because I’m passionate about helping people heal, grow, and regain a sense of control in their lives. My journey into this work was driven by a deep desire to support those navigating trauma, stress, and life’s transitions. I believe healing happens through connection—both with ourselves and others—and that belief guides my approach. Providing compassionate, trauma-informed care isn’t just my work; it’s my calling. I’m here to walk alongside you as you reclaim your strength and move toward healing.
(425) 600-3288 View (425) 600-3288
Photo of Melanie Vallee, PhDc, LMFT, LMHC
Melanie Vallee
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you moving through a major life transition that feels overwhelming? Maybe you find yourself stuck in painful cycles — repeating the same arguments, behaviors, or thought patterns that leave you drained and discouraged. Perhaps you are carrying the weight of grief and loss, trying to hold it all together while feeling broken inside. For others, the struggle shows up as looping anxious thoughts that won’t quiet down, waves of depression that sap motivation, or relationship conflicts that leave you feeling unseen, unheard, or alone. There is a path forward—toward peace, clarity, and connection, and we can walk it together.
Are you moving through a major life transition that feels overwhelming? Maybe you find yourself stuck in painful cycles — repeating the same arguments, behaviors, or thought patterns that leave you drained and discouraged. Perhaps you are carrying the weight of grief and loss, trying to hold it all together while feeling broken inside. For others, the struggle shows up as looping anxious thoughts that won’t quiet down, waves of depression that sap motivation, or relationship conflicts that leave you feeling unseen, unheard, or alone. There is a path forward—toward peace, clarity, and connection, and we can walk it together.
(425) 998-9243 View (425) 998-9243
Photo of Cynthia Pike Besteman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LASW, LSWAIC
Cynthia Pike Besteman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LASW, LSWAIC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not feeling like yourself… you're not alone. If you’re navigating cancer, divorce, menopause, loss, or the stress of running a business… I see you. If you’re in a midlife shift that no one prepared you for, and you’re wondering “Is this it?”... I get it. I work with adults facing the messy, often painful transitions that life throws at us—when everything seems to change at once and the ground beneath you feels shaky.
If you are anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not feeling like yourself… you're not alone. If you’re navigating cancer, divorce, menopause, loss, or the stress of running a business… I see you. If you’re in a midlife shift that no one prepared you for, and you’re wondering “Is this it?”... I get it. I work with adults facing the messy, often painful transitions that life throws at us—when everything seems to change at once and the ground beneath you feels shaky.
(425) 357-2603 View (425) 357-2603
Photo of Nancy Owen, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CST
Nancy Owen
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CST
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a passion for building relationship and connection. Our work together helps you connect with yourself, to identify the needs and desires you have, the changes you wish to make, then further to improve relationships with yourself and others to help you in your journey toward change. My current focus is on helping couples and adult individuals achieve healthier, more connected relationships with themselves and others, and I specialize in sex therapy and couples work around intimacy issues. I also specialize in postpartum issues with women and couples, families transitioning to parenthood, and stress/life transitions.
I have a passion for building relationship and connection. Our work together helps you connect with yourself, to identify the needs and desires you have, the changes you wish to make, then further to improve relationships with yourself and others to help you in your journey toward change. My current focus is on helping couples and adult individuals achieve healthier, more connected relationships with themselves and others, and I specialize in sex therapy and couples work around intimacy issues. I also specialize in postpartum issues with women and couples, families transitioning to parenthood, and stress/life transitions.
(425) 657-5274 View (425) 657-5274
Photo of Stephen Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Stephen Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Stephen Lee, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving the Eastside of Seattle. I help adults, couples, and families who appear steady but inside feel overwhelmed, stuck, or quietly wonder if life could be more than just survival. Many clients come from multicultural backgrounds, balancing competing cultural expectations while facing burnout, relationship strain, or a sense that something vital is missing. We work to uncover identity, desire, and a fuller way of living.
I’m Stephen Lee, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving the Eastside of Seattle. I help adults, couples, and families who appear steady but inside feel overwhelmed, stuck, or quietly wonder if life could be more than just survival. Many clients come from multicultural backgrounds, balancing competing cultural expectations while facing burnout, relationship strain, or a sense that something vital is missing. We work to uncover identity, desire, and a fuller way of living.
(425) 517-3523 View (425) 517-3523
Photo of Beatrice Joe, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Beatrice Joe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
If you are seeking a therapist, you might be feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from difficulties in your interpersonal relationship. Your issues may be situational or be related to a history or pattern in your life. In therapy, I will explore different facets of these issues. I will assist you in understanding the various dynamics underlying your situation, problem solve and teach coping strategies.
If you are seeking a therapist, you might be feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from difficulties in your interpersonal relationship. Your issues may be situational or be related to a history or pattern in your life. In therapy, I will explore different facets of these issues. I will assist you in understanding the various dynamics underlying your situation, problem solve and teach coping strategies.
(425) 312-6334 View (425) 312-6334
Photo of Carmen Noel Benway - Seattle Neurocounseling, Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, MHP, CCPT-2
Seattle Neurocounseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, MHP, CCPT-2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently Accepting New Clients. We are a small counseling practice with locations in Kirkland and Vancouver, WA. We work with primarily adults but have specific providers that work with children. Each provider has their own speciality areas. Please email us to book.
Currently Accepting New Clients. We are a small counseling practice with locations in Kirkland and Vancouver, WA. We work with primarily adults but have specific providers that work with children. Each provider has their own speciality areas. Please email us to book.
(425) 728-6859 View (425) 728-6859
Photo of Kaya Wynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Kaya Wynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Over time we develop patterns of behavior that may have once supported us through a difficult time, but these ways of being may be hurting our ability to connect with loved ones or form new connections. Through our work together, we will reflect on how your past experiences may influence who you are today and identify interventions to support you in connecting with who you want to become. In addition to working with individuals, I enjoy supporting people to better engage in the important relationships in their lives; this may be within a couple, but can also be in a parent-child relationship.
Over time we develop patterns of behavior that may have once supported us through a difficult time, but these ways of being may be hurting our ability to connect with loved ones or form new connections. Through our work together, we will reflect on how your past experiences may influence who you are today and identify interventions to support you in connecting with who you want to become. In addition to working with individuals, I enjoy supporting people to better engage in the important relationships in their lives; this may be within a couple, but can also be in a parent-child relationship.
(206) 651-4729 View (206) 651-4729
Photo of Jon Reeves, Psychologist, PhD
Jon Reeves
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Update: Accepting a few new clients for Fall 2025. Book a free 15min consult to see if we are a good fit. My practice is a space where every part of your life can be explored and understood without judgment, helping you make choices that reflect your values. People often come to therapy with me for stress & anxiety, depression, relationship/work/school challenges, loneliness, climate or political distress, or simply because life isn't what you want it to be.
Update: Accepting a few new clients for Fall 2025. Book a free 15min consult to see if we are a good fit. My practice is a space where every part of your life can be explored and understood without judgment, helping you make choices that reflect your values. People often come to therapy with me for stress & anxiety, depression, relationship/work/school challenges, loneliness, climate or political distress, or simply because life isn't what you want it to be.
(206) 516-2081 View (206) 516-2081
Photo of Hannah Alderete, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHC
Hannah Alderete
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHC
10 Endorsed
Online Only
You are no stranger to self-doubt. As the adult child of a narcissistic & emotionally invalidating parent, you’ve been taught to deny your emotions, deprioritize your needs, and question everything about yourself. You know how to stay hidden in plain sight without exposing your authentic self, but the downside is that it’s exhausting. Now, you’re at a point where you’re realizing you need help to get back to who you are without the guilt, shame, and toxic beliefs holding you back. You're ready to heal and experience the kind of self-acceptance that the younger you always needed.
You are no stranger to self-doubt. As the adult child of a narcissistic & emotionally invalidating parent, you’ve been taught to deny your emotions, deprioritize your needs, and question everything about yourself. You know how to stay hidden in plain sight without exposing your authentic self, but the downside is that it’s exhausting. Now, you’re at a point where you’re realizing you need help to get back to who you are without the guilt, shame, and toxic beliefs holding you back. You're ready to heal and experience the kind of self-acceptance that the younger you always needed.
(206) 701-7732 View (206) 701-7732
Photo of Kathleen Howell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kathleen Howell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have had the privilege of working with numerous Individuals, couples and families facing various traumas, as well as relational and communication challenges. I help clients deal with deep-rooted issues and past traumas that may be hindering their emotional health and relationships. Through my extensive work in this field, I have honed my skills in understanding the complexities of human relationships and guiding individuals towards healthier connections.
I have had the privilege of working with numerous Individuals, couples and families facing various traumas, as well as relational and communication challenges. I help clients deal with deep-rooted issues and past traumas that may be hindering their emotional health and relationships. Through my extensive work in this field, I have honed my skills in understanding the complexities of human relationships and guiding individuals towards healthier connections.
(425) 600-6463 View (425) 600-6463
Photo of Jami Visaya, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT, EMMHS, CMHS, Bilingual
Jami Visaya
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT, EMMHS, CMHS, Bilingual
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I’m Jami Visaya, LMFT, LMHC, founder of Vibrant Life Counseling in Bellevue, WA. I provide telehealth individual and relationship counseling for professional parents and clients navigating post-affair recovery. I help individuals, couples, and families improve communication, rebuild trust, and reconnect with what matters most. My ideal clients want guidance, support, and practical tools to heal, strengthen relationships, and create lasting, meaningful change across Washington State, all from the comfort of their own home.
Hello, I’m Jami Visaya, LMFT, LMHC, founder of Vibrant Life Counseling in Bellevue, WA. I provide telehealth individual and relationship counseling for professional parents and clients navigating post-affair recovery. I help individuals, couples, and families improve communication, rebuild trust, and reconnect with what matters most. My ideal clients want guidance, support, and practical tools to heal, strengthen relationships, and create lasting, meaningful change across Washington State, all from the comfort of their own home.
(425) 437-2784 View (425) 437-2784
Photo of Shar Kunovsky, Counselor, JD, MA, LMHC
Shar Kunovsky
Counselor, JD, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NEW Clients: Please email. No one deserves to live in pain. After 25 years as a therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I provide skills, actionable steps and direct feedback. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools/skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in the way of creating your best life. I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client.
NEW Clients: Please email. No one deserves to live in pain. After 25 years as a therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I provide skills, actionable steps and direct feedback. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools/skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in the way of creating your best life. I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client.
(425) 264-8713 View (425) 264-8713
Photo of Jacob Vermeersch, Psychologist, PhD, LPsy
Jacob Vermeersch
Psychologist, PhD, LPsy
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling trapped by unwanted sexual thoughts or behaviors that seem hard to control (sex addiction)? Do you wonder if your porn use has become too much? Has infidelity deeply hurt your relationship? Maybe sexual difficulties are creating distance between you and your partner. My clients are ready to break unhealthy cycles, rebuild trust, and find healing. They’re tired of living with secrecy or shame. As a sexual health specialist, I understand how isolating these struggles can feel. I provide effective, compassionate support to help you regain control and move toward lasting recovery.
Are you feeling trapped by unwanted sexual thoughts or behaviors that seem hard to control (sex addiction)? Do you wonder if your porn use has become too much? Has infidelity deeply hurt your relationship? Maybe sexual difficulties are creating distance between you and your partner. My clients are ready to break unhealthy cycles, rebuild trust, and find healing. They’re tired of living with secrecy or shame. As a sexual health specialist, I understand how isolating these struggles can feel. I provide effective, compassionate support to help you regain control and move toward lasting recovery.
(425) 437-2727 View (425) 437-2727
Photo of Jeff Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Jeff Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are looking to transform yourself or your relationship and have healthier forms of communication, more intimate and emotional forms of connection and ,overall, improve your sense of self and relationships let your journey begin. With over 20 years of mental health experience and 14 years practicing therapy, I have learned to specialize in relationship/couples therapy and work as well as individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other life and circumstantial issues. If you are looking to repair, strengthen, regain connection, improve intimacy, or generally work on your relationships or your mental health I can help.
If you are looking to transform yourself or your relationship and have healthier forms of communication, more intimate and emotional forms of connection and ,overall, improve your sense of self and relationships let your journey begin. With over 20 years of mental health experience and 14 years practicing therapy, I have learned to specialize in relationship/couples therapy and work as well as individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other life and circumstantial issues. If you are looking to repair, strengthen, regain connection, improve intimacy, or generally work on your relationships or your mental health I can help.
(425) 242-3988 View (425) 242-3988
Photo of Kyla Brant, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kyla Brant
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you expecting a baby and feeling overwhelmed, terrified or confused? Wanting help processing a high risk pregnancy? Are you a mom in postpartum trying to navigate your new identity and wanting someone to muddy through the waters with you? If you answered yes than therapy might be for you. Might hope is to make you feel brave and empowered in this new or maybe recurring journey for you and your family. Are you neurodivergent struggling to navigate relationships, or life transitions? Do you want someone to share your special interests with and help you feel seen? If yes than scheudle and appointment today.
Are you expecting a baby and feeling overwhelmed, terrified or confused? Wanting help processing a high risk pregnancy? Are you a mom in postpartum trying to navigate your new identity and wanting someone to muddy through the waters with you? If you answered yes than therapy might be for you. Might hope is to make you feel brave and empowered in this new or maybe recurring journey for you and your family. Are you neurodivergent struggling to navigate relationships, or life transitions? Do you want someone to share your special interests with and help you feel seen? If yes than scheudle and appointment today.
(360) 361-8387 View (360) 361-8387

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shayla Nawrocki, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MHP
Shayla Nawrocki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MHP
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117
“A walk in nature, walks the soul back home”- Mary Davis. Do you feel happiest and most like yourself when you slow down and enter nature to smell the sweet air, speak with the majestic trees, listen to the wisdom of the wind, feel the energy of Earth below your feet, and make space to embody aliveness? You are not alone. Just like you, I believe that nature is a path to greater wellbeing. Our work together revolves around discovering your root issues and traumas as well as connecting to the Earth, using Her wisdom as a guide to cultivate self-discovery, intuition, somatic healing, and connecting to your unique life spark.
“A walk in nature, walks the soul back home”- Mary Davis. Do you feel happiest and most like yourself when you slow down and enter nature to smell the sweet air, speak with the majestic trees, listen to the wisdom of the wind, feel the energy of Earth below your feet, and make space to embody aliveness? You are not alone. Just like you, I believe that nature is a path to greater wellbeing. Our work together revolves around discovering your root issues and traumas as well as connecting to the Earth, using Her wisdom as a guide to cultivate self-discovery, intuition, somatic healing, and connecting to your unique life spark.
(425) 428-6962 View (425) 428-6962
Photo of Amanda Keogh, Counselor, LMHCA
Amanda Keogh
Counselor, LMHCA
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma, and challenges with boundaries/people-pleasing. Together, we will develop a plan to move toward the life you want at the pace that is right for you. Expect compassion, humor, curiosity, and the occasional challenge. I'm a talker - no blank slate here! - but sometimes "just talk" isn't right for the challenges you're facing. When that's needed, I utilize experiential/creative approaches to help us progress without relying on words alone.
I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, trauma, and challenges with boundaries/people-pleasing. Together, we will develop a plan to move toward the life you want at the pace that is right for you. Expect compassion, humor, curiosity, and the occasional challenge. I'm a talker - no blank slate here! - but sometimes "just talk" isn't right for the challenges you're facing. When that's needed, I utilize experiential/creative approaches to help us progress without relying on words alone.
View
Photo of Hiromi Fujiwara, Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, MS, MSW, LMHC
Hiromi Fujiwara
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, MS, MSW, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
Are you feeling helpless, lonely and tired of your struggles? Why are you getting caught in repetitive, unwanted pattern of life? Do you want to make sense of your life and gain more control? Do you need someone who can listen to you with keen observation, respect and compassion, who can empower and equip you to overcome your chronic or more acute struggles? You probably want more than just to alleviate your pain, but to understand your life and relational patterns, to explore your deep seated belief and fear, your unmet desire and longing, and to live your life well. If this resonates you, I welcome you to contact me.
Are you feeling helpless, lonely and tired of your struggles? Why are you getting caught in repetitive, unwanted pattern of life? Do you want to make sense of your life and gain more control? Do you need someone who can listen to you with keen observation, respect and compassion, who can empower and equip you to overcome your chronic or more acute struggles? You probably want more than just to alleviate your pain, but to understand your life and relational patterns, to explore your deep seated belief and fear, your unmet desire and longing, and to live your life well. If this resonates you, I welcome you to contact me.
(425) 470-5315 View (425) 470-5315
Photo of Kimberly Reid, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Kimberly Reid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023
When we allow ourselves to be transformed by our life’s experiences, they have valuable lessons to teach us; nothing is wasted. By leaning into our challenges, we can emerge more resilient, compassionate, and able to live a life of gratitude for all that shaped us into who we are. I take a non-judgmental holistic view honoring each person’s unique mind, body, relational, & spiritual identities. I have a sense of cultural humility and a deep appreciation for diversity. I empathetically collaborate with my clients throughout their journey, meeting them in their unique circumstances. I value authenticity, acceptance, & social justice.
When we allow ourselves to be transformed by our life’s experiences, they have valuable lessons to teach us; nothing is wasted. By leaning into our challenges, we can emerge more resilient, compassionate, and able to live a life of gratitude for all that shaped us into who we are. I take a non-judgmental holistic view honoring each person’s unique mind, body, relational, & spiritual identities. I have a sense of cultural humility and a deep appreciation for diversity. I empathetically collaborate with my clients throughout their journey, meeting them in their unique circumstances. I value authenticity, acceptance, & social justice.
(253) 400-2874 View (253) 400-2874

See more therapy options for 98083

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98083

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 98083 who prioritize treating:

94% Relationship Issues
88% Depression
88% Anxiety
75% Grief
75% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
70% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Premera Blue Cross

How Therapists in 98083 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98083?

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.