Therapists in Seattle, WA
Dr. Emily L. Andresen- Seattle Couples Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
APRIL 2022- Accepting new clients. Welcome! I am a Stanford trained clinical psychologist who specializes in working with couples struggling with communication, a lack of physical intimacy or emotional connection, a difference in attachment style or issues related to trust. I also work with couples in their second marriage as they navigate the challenges of a blended family and with married couples contemplating divorce or couples who would like support as they decouple.
APRIL 2022- Accepting new clients. Welcome! I am a Stanford trained clinical psychologist who specializes in working with couples struggling with communication, a lack of physical intimacy or emotional connection, a difference in attachment style or issues related to trust. I also work with couples in their second marriage as they navigate the challenges of a blended family and with married couples contemplating divorce or couples who would like support as they decouple.
Timothy Popanz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Living well longer is most people's aspiration, yet preventable disease remains our nation's most significant public health challenge. Integrative Health Care assesses and treats the "whole person" in order to improve health outcomes. My collaborative, individualistic work with patients aspires to not only improve quality of life and treat underlying mood, behavioral, and substance use issues but is also preventative. My other priority is helping those with chronic illness better manage these conditions.
Living well longer is most people's aspiration, yet preventable disease remains our nation's most significant public health challenge. Integrative Health Care assesses and treats the "whole person" in order to improve health outcomes. My collaborative, individualistic work with patients aspires to not only improve quality of life and treat underlying mood, behavioral, and substance use issues but is also preventative. My other priority is helping those with chronic illness better manage these conditions.
Paul Heiman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102 (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychotherapist with an office in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood. I have a masters in counseling psychology from Regis University in Denver and over 17 years of professional experience. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, LGBTQ and ADHD issues. I work with couples, individuals, and parents and their children. I draw on a number of schools of thinking, including existential, interpersonal, client-centered, cognitive and humanistic. Put simply, I see my job as helping my clients gain access to resources they already have within them - so they can grow into the people they want to be.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with an office in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood. I have a masters in counseling psychology from Regis University in Denver and over 17 years of professional experience. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, LGBTQ and ADHD issues. I work with couples, individuals, and parents and their children. I draw on a number of schools of thinking, including existential, interpersonal, client-centered, cognitive and humanistic. Put simply, I see my job as helping my clients gain access to resources they already have within them - so they can grow into the people they want to be.
Nicole Ahn
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Purpose - Transformation is a process of liberation and a path toward peace. With any hardship, there is an opportunity for growth. My approach to therapy considers unconscious and unresolved issues that will bring healing and enable you to thrive.
Purpose - Transformation is a process of liberation and a path toward peace. With any hardship, there is an opportunity for growth. My approach to therapy considers unconscious and unresolved issues that will bring healing and enable you to thrive.
Amy Bloom LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSAT, CMAT, CCBRT-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
I have been treating clients and couples for two decades. I specialized in bi-polar and other mood disorders before becoming a certified multiple addictions, sex addiction therapist and couple's counselor. I was certified by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals with Patrick Carnes in 2008. I treat those who suffer from mood, sexual addiction/compulsion issues, I treat spouses/partners who have betrayal trauma and help couples find their way back to each other. I am able to offer insight, compassion, levity and support. I do not treat sex offenders. I am not certified in sex offender treatment
I have been treating clients and couples for two decades. I specialized in bi-polar and other mood disorders before becoming a certified multiple addictions, sex addiction therapist and couple's counselor. I was certified by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals with Patrick Carnes in 2008. I treat those who suffer from mood, sexual addiction/compulsion issues, I treat spouses/partners who have betrayal trauma and help couples find their way back to each other. I am able to offer insight, compassion, levity and support. I do not treat sex offenders. I am not certified in sex offender treatment
Meghan Whitlock
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Anxiety, panic, worry and stress can hold people back from performing in life. It can hold people back in school, from getting the job they want, getting promoted, and flourishing in relationships. Trying to escape anxiety can lead people to doing things they wouldn't normally do. When people are frozen with fear they are not living life fully as their authentic selves. Working with a therapist can break you free from anxiety. I've helped so many people work through these feelings to go on to be more successful in their lives.
Anxiety, panic, worry and stress can hold people back from performing in life. It can hold people back in school, from getting the job they want, getting promoted, and flourishing in relationships. Trying to escape anxiety can lead people to doing things they wouldn't normally do. When people are frozen with fear they are not living life fully as their authentic selves. Working with a therapist can break you free from anxiety. I've helped so many people work through these feelings to go on to be more successful in their lives.
Joshua Cohen
Counselor, MA/LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
I have been working in the mental health field for over twenty years. Throughout that time I have worked in a variety of settings, all of which have given me a wealth of experience to draw upon. I have always had a passion for the work of psychotherapy, which I feel is ultimately about inner exploration and transformation. Most people come to psychotherapy because they feel like they are stuck in some way. Having another mind and perspective can help to get things moving where they once were stuck. With a spirit of curiosity and collaboration I work with my patients to seek out what may be obstructing their continued growth.
I have been working in the mental health field for over twenty years. Throughout that time I have worked in a variety of settings, all of which have given me a wealth of experience to draw upon. I have always had a passion for the work of psychotherapy, which I feel is ultimately about inner exploration and transformation. Most people come to psychotherapy because they feel like they are stuck in some way. Having another mind and perspective can help to get things moving where they once were stuck. With a spirit of curiosity and collaboration I work with my patients to seek out what may be obstructing their continued growth.
Katie Raser
Counselor, LICSWA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with new and expectant parents (primarily mothers), with a focus on the transition to parenting, general anxiety and mood changes, and PMADS (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, previously known as post-partum depression). I offer additional services as a parent coach and educator.
I work with new and expectant parents (primarily mothers), with a focus on the transition to parenting, general anxiety and mood changes, and PMADS (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, previously known as post-partum depression). I offer additional services as a parent coach and educator.
Minhee J Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, M, Ed, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and work with children/teens, individuals, couples, and families. Many are in pain or feel helpless from their struggles: A child/teen shows anxiety; an adult has difficulty in social relationships, or couples/families experience discord in conflict. My passion is to come alongside and help children/teens, couples, and their families with a systemic and holistic approach while they go through life challenges so they can thrive in their lives. 부부 및 가족관계 치료사, 아동 및 청소년 상담치료사로 이민사회에서 불안, 우울증, 관계불화로 갈등하는 분들을 돕고 있습니다. '불안한 아이 및 청소년'을 돕는 상담치료법과 '정서중심적 부부치료' 방법으로 상담치료를 합니다.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and work with children/teens, individuals, couples, and families. Many are in pain or feel helpless from their struggles: A child/teen shows anxiety; an adult has difficulty in social relationships, or couples/families experience discord in conflict. My passion is to come alongside and help children/teens, couples, and their families with a systemic and holistic approach while they go through life challenges so they can thrive in their lives. 부부 및 가족관계 치료사, 아동 및 청소년 상담치료사로 이민사회에서 불안, 우울증, 관계불화로 갈등하는 분들을 돕고 있습니다. '불안한 아이 및 청소년'을 돕는 상담치료법과 '정서중심적 부부치료' 방법으로 상담치료를 합니다.
New Perceptions Counseling, PLLC, Tayler Peterson
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116 (Online Only)
Greetings and Congratulations on taking your first step in finding the right therapist for you! My name is Tayler Peterson and I am a Master’s level intern pursuing my degree in Social Work from the University of Washington. I am passionate about supporting clients on their journey towards healing and personal growth. I approach therapy with empathy, authenticity, and a genuine desire to work with individuals navigating life’s challenges. Drawing from my training and coursework, I utilize a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual.
Greetings and Congratulations on taking your first step in finding the right therapist for you! My name is Tayler Peterson and I am a Master’s level intern pursuing my degree in Social Work from the University of Washington. I am passionate about supporting clients on their journey towards healing and personal growth. I approach therapy with empathy, authenticity, and a genuine desire to work with individuals navigating life’s challenges. Drawing from my training and coursework, I utilize a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual.
Jane Seelye Washington State Online Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
We all face challenges in life, but sometimes we get stuck, overwhelmed, or notice repeating patterns that negatively affect our relationships, work, and our overall health. I work with women who feel anxious, worried, lonely, sad, not good enough, or confused about what to do next. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, hurtful relationships, family issues, difficult transitions, trauma and many other life challenges. Most women I see are looking to build confidence, become empowered to make changes, break unhealthy patterns and form healthier relationships. Counseling can be a great resource we can use to heal and grow.
We all face challenges in life, but sometimes we get stuck, overwhelmed, or notice repeating patterns that negatively affect our relationships, work, and our overall health. I work with women who feel anxious, worried, lonely, sad, not good enough, or confused about what to do next. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, hurtful relationships, family issues, difficult transitions, trauma and many other life challenges. Most women I see are looking to build confidence, become empowered to make changes, break unhealthy patterns and form healthier relationships. Counseling can be a great resource we can use to heal and grow.
15 Second Videos
Timothy Popanz
Keren Lehavot
Al Kent-Guerra
Steph Tigert
Audrey Tice
Brian Kimmel Guidance Center
Amanda Fowler
Andi Chen
Alexandra Woollacott
Sabrina Brown
Jennifer Skorch
Lauren Robinson
Audrey Phillips
Natalie Upton
Natalie Spangenberg
Timothy Rasmussen
Mike Krepick
Beck Pazdral
Susannah Brister
John Skandalis
Minjoo Bayers
Anna Ossenfort
Hope and Pearl Counseling - Jessica Dacus
Bailey D S Cheshire
Carie Cook
Mike and Kim Couples Counseling
Camila Buleje
Adam Haynes-LaMotte
Jon Reeves
Andrew Duffy Fontana
Erin Swan Fearless Healing Therapy
Ashley Anson
Lara Vander Woude
Connie Lawson
Savana Ramirez
Ana Mays
Julianna Fetner
Kelly Caver
Vitalina Chavez
Ellie Valda
Christian Skoorsmith
Tanya Ruckstuhl
Verdure Counseling- Nature Based Therapy
Christopher Skaggs
Christina Perez
Genevieve Santerre
Ashley Haynes-Gibson
Marte White
Tristen Mills
Ready Set Mindful
Dr. Keren Lehavot
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
You are feeling stuck, experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety, or simply overwhelmed with life. You feel bad about yourself, and you’re constantly depleted of energy. Your relationships with people who are important to you - such as your partner, children, other family members, or friends - are suffering, and you’re not able to assert the boundaries you need, to put yourself first, or to feel happy or in control. Perhaps you’re overwhelmed with stress related to identities that are important to you, such as your sexual identity, gender or gender identity, race, ethnicity, or religion. You know there must be another way.
You are feeling stuck, experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety, or simply overwhelmed with life. You feel bad about yourself, and you’re constantly depleted of energy. Your relationships with people who are important to you - such as your partner, children, other family members, or friends - are suffering, and you’re not able to assert the boundaries you need, to put yourself first, or to feel happy or in control. Perhaps you’re overwhelmed with stress related to identities that are important to you, such as your sexual identity, gender or gender identity, race, ethnicity, or religion. You know there must be another way.
Nicole Waters
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
Many people can feel they have become “stuck” at a certain point in their life, such as a challenging life adjustment, communication difficulties in a relationship, or getting caught up in negative thoughts and behaviors. My goal in therapy is to establish a safe and supportive environment to freely express your inner thoughts and concerns, while providing resources and a platform for you to advocate for yourself. We will work together as a team to establish goals and to help you overcome life’s demands, difficulties and barriers.
Many people can feel they have become “stuck” at a certain point in their life, such as a challenging life adjustment, communication difficulties in a relationship, or getting caught up in negative thoughts and behaviors. My goal in therapy is to establish a safe and supportive environment to freely express your inner thoughts and concerns, while providing resources and a platform for you to advocate for yourself. We will work together as a team to establish goals and to help you overcome life’s demands, difficulties and barriers.
Mary Jayne Wykowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step so that life may get different for you. The beauty and benefits of re-examining how we can make changes in our lives, continues to fuel my passion for therapeutic dialogue. The integrative nature of my work allows for us to look at family of origin explanations, without blaming, so that you can move toward change. When what feels like roadblocks comes up there are a number of tools that can help, like increasing mindfulness and learning more around boundaries and assertive communication.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step so that life may get different for you. The beauty and benefits of re-examining how we can make changes in our lives, continues to fuel my passion for therapeutic dialogue. The integrative nature of my work allows for us to look at family of origin explanations, without blaming, so that you can move toward change. When what feels like roadblocks comes up there are a number of tools that can help, like increasing mindfulness and learning more around boundaries and assertive communication.
Nikki Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Not accepting new clients
I believe that we all experience suffering and that we are not meant to go through it alone. My own suffering brought me to therapy and it was in that relationship where I was met with unconditional positive regard and felt truly seen and heard for the first time. Having this experience allowed me to begin to find self-love and compassion, both requisites for healing from whatever kind of suffering we have endured. I want to help others find their way to healing and am committed to providing a safe and caring space for them to do so.
I believe that we all experience suffering and that we are not meant to go through it alone. My own suffering brought me to therapy and it was in that relationship where I was met with unconditional positive regard and felt truly seen and heard for the first time. Having this experience allowed me to begin to find self-love and compassion, both requisites for healing from whatever kind of suffering we have endured. I want to help others find their way to healing and am committed to providing a safe and caring space for them to do so.
Soleil Ann Brandenfels
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
Immediate couples & family openings! Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
Immediate couples & family openings! Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
Victoria Baker
Counselor, LPC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Victoria Baker, a dedicated and empathetic therapist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. Witnessing transformation and growth during pivotal life stages is incredibly rewarding. My goal is to empower clients, foster healthy coping, and build skills for fulfilling lives. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients are heard and understood. Tailoring each session to individual needs, preferences, and goals, I view clients as experts in their lives.
Hello! I'm Victoria Baker, a dedicated and empathetic therapist who enjoys working with adolescents and adults. Witnessing transformation and growth during pivotal life stages is incredibly rewarding. My goal is to empower clients, foster healthy coping, and build skills for fulfilling lives. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients are heard and understood. Tailoring each session to individual needs, preferences, and goals, I view clients as experts in their lives.
Joe Sawyer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
We are created, live, and change within relationship. It is in relationship that we experience love and comfort, as well as pain and confusion. It is often this pain and confusion that leads people to seek therapy. In therapy, you experience a relationship that is centered on your growth and well being, providing a context for both exploration and experience. My goal in therapy is to help you live a more full and healthy life, both in relationship to others and to your self.
We are created, live, and change within relationship. It is in relationship that we experience love and comfort, as well as pain and confusion. It is often this pain and confusion that leads people to seek therapy. In therapy, you experience a relationship that is centered on your growth and well being, providing a context for both exploration and experience. My goal in therapy is to help you live a more full and healthy life, both in relationship to others and to your self.
Maite Andrea Imaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109 (Online Only)
With genuine positive regard and a creative approach, my practice is committed to fostering awareness, healing and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship ultimately deepens the relationship with oneself and how we navigate challenges in the art of living. I facilitate with getting to the heart of the matter, gleaning meaningful insight, and building upon internal and external strengths. I have worked professionally for over 20 years, supporting a diverse population of hundreds of adults, youth, children, couples and families through and beyond, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
With genuine positive regard and a creative approach, my practice is committed to fostering awareness, healing and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship ultimately deepens the relationship with oneself and how we navigate challenges in the art of living. I facilitate with getting to the heart of the matter, gleaning meaningful insight, and building upon internal and external strengths. I have worked professionally for over 20 years, supporting a diverse population of hundreds of adults, youth, children, couples and families through and beyond, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
Crystal DeLoach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Not accepting new clients
I work with women, men, adolescents, and couples struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship difficulties, and/or working toward personal growth, self-exploration, and relationship enhancement. I also have advanced training in helping people work through the emotional and psychological issues related to medical problems including infertility, high-risk pregnancy, peripartum loss, postpartum depression, cancer, adjustment to parenting, and other issues. I have a specialization in reproductive medicine and conduct psychotherapy as well as psychological evaluations required prior to participation in third party reproduction.
I work with women, men, adolescents, and couples struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship difficulties, and/or working toward personal growth, self-exploration, and relationship enhancement. I also have advanced training in helping people work through the emotional and psychological issues related to medical problems including infertility, high-risk pregnancy, peripartum loss, postpartum depression, cancer, adjustment to parenting, and other issues. I have a specialization in reproductive medicine and conduct psychotherapy as well as psychological evaluations required prior to participation in third party reproduction.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Seattle, WA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
79% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Stress |
69% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
70% | Premera |
53% | Aetna |
47% | Regence |
How Therapists in Seattle, WA see their clients
51% | Online Only | |
49% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
4% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Seattle?
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
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.
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.
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.