Therapists in 98406

Photo of Kristen Allott, ND, LAC
Kristen Allott
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in working with people who have tried "everything"... every medication, every diet trend, different types of doctors (and therapists)...and describe themselves as "broken" in some way. I start by looking for hypoglycemia, nutrient deficits, inflammation, and hormonal dysregulation. These are often overlooked contributors to fatigue, depression, brain fog, anxiety, and insomnia, which medication and therapy can not directly address.
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in working with people who have tried "everything"... every medication, every diet trend, different types of doctors (and therapists)...and describe themselves as "broken" in some way. I start by looking for hypoglycemia, nutrient deficits, inflammation, and hormonal dysregulation. These are often overlooked contributors to fatigue, depression, brain fog, anxiety, and insomnia, which medication and therapy can not directly address.
(206) 237-4391 x206579 View (206) 237-4391 x206579
Photo of Sammy Callahan, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Sammy Callahan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
Accepting New Clients. Are you a young adult that is struggling with the transition into adulthood? Are you feeling overwhelmed by everyone’s expectations of what your life is supposed to look like? Anxiety often comes along with all of the new responsibilities, tasks, and rules that you are supposed to follow. I’m here to help. There is more to this new chapter than just new responsibilities. Becoming an adult means maturing into the person that you have always dreamt of being. I am here to help you create a plan to manage the anxiety that comes with this transition, and to help you realize and utilize your untapped potential.
Accepting New Clients. Are you a young adult that is struggling with the transition into adulthood? Are you feeling overwhelmed by everyone’s expectations of what your life is supposed to look like? Anxiety often comes along with all of the new responsibilities, tasks, and rules that you are supposed to follow. I’m here to help. There is more to this new chapter than just new responsibilities. Becoming an adult means maturing into the person that you have always dreamt of being. I am here to help you create a plan to manage the anxiety that comes with this transition, and to help you realize and utilize your untapped potential.
(253) 444-4169 View (253) 444-4169
Photo of Sydney Mercado-Screws, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sydney Mercado-Screws
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
Sydney is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in crisis mental health and first responder experience. With both professional and personal insight into these high-stress environments, Sydney deeply understands the unique challenges faced by those in emergency services and similar fields—including trauma exposure, burnout, hypervigilance, and the impact of organizational culture. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a trauma-informed lens, providing practical tools and a supportive space for healing.
Sydney is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in crisis mental health and first responder experience. With both professional and personal insight into these high-stress environments, Sydney deeply understands the unique challenges faced by those in emergency services and similar fields—including trauma exposure, burnout, hypervigilance, and the impact of organizational culture. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a trauma-informed lens, providing practical tools and a supportive space for healing.
(253) 352-4662 View (253) 352-4662
Photo of Emilie Buter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Emilie Buter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
If you identify as a young(er) woman, you know firsthand the demands of work, school, relationships, family, and extracurriculars. You look around and it seems that everyone else is navigating life with ease yet you feel like you are spinning your wheels trying to be the best student, employee, partner, mom, aunt, and daughter you can be and...you're exhausted. Things typically come easy for you so you wonder why it all feels so hard. You are struggling to find time for yourself and make yourself a priority. You feel discouraged and anxious and want to feel better.
If you identify as a young(er) woman, you know firsthand the demands of work, school, relationships, family, and extracurriculars. You look around and it seems that everyone else is navigating life with ease yet you feel like you are spinning your wheels trying to be the best student, employee, partner, mom, aunt, and daughter you can be and...you're exhausted. Things typically come easy for you so you wonder why it all feels so hard. You are struggling to find time for yourself and make yourself a priority. You feel discouraged and anxious and want to feel better.
(253) 498-9065 View (253) 498-9065
Photo of Nicole Yandle, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Nicole Yandle
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
Tacoma, WA 98406
Accepting clients. Do you struggle with imposter syndrome? Are you performing well in your job, but are still convinced that you’ll be fired at any time?​ Gaining the confidence to face self-doubt and insecurity is incredibly difficult, but Nicole is here to give you the tools you need to change the way you think about yourself. She will support you in transforming your inner dialogue from thoughts of uncertainty about your abilities to the confidence and pride you deserve. Nicole will work with you using narrative, relational and depth-oriented psychodynamic therapy that is grounded in an anti-oppressive framework.
Accepting clients. Do you struggle with imposter syndrome? Are you performing well in your job, but are still convinced that you’ll be fired at any time?​ Gaining the confidence to face self-doubt and insecurity is incredibly difficult, but Nicole is here to give you the tools you need to change the way you think about yourself. She will support you in transforming your inner dialogue from thoughts of uncertainty about your abilities to the confidence and pride you deserve. Nicole will work with you using narrative, relational and depth-oriented psychodynamic therapy that is grounded in an anti-oppressive framework.
(253) 338-5103 View (253) 338-5103
Photo of Kelley Kohlwes, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP, CMHS
Kelley Kohlwes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP, CMHS
8 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
Working from a relational-narrative perspective, I am committed to supporting you in your life journey. If you are feeling unhappy within your relationship, personal experiences or simply feel “stuck”, I’m here to help support you in the pursuit of your preferred way of living. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing life transitions and couples in any relational stage, offering support to all gender identities and sexual orientations.
Working from a relational-narrative perspective, I am committed to supporting you in your life journey. If you are feeling unhappy within your relationship, personal experiences or simply feel “stuck”, I’m here to help support you in the pursuit of your preferred way of living. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing life transitions and couples in any relational stage, offering support to all gender identities and sexual orientations.
(253) 666-6954 View (253) 666-6954
Desiree Turner
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I focus on helping my clients understand and heal attachment issues, processing of trauma, resolving parenting difficulties, and work/life conflicts. My goal is to give my clients a place to feel safe to discuss the stresses and troubles they may be experiencing. Although I counsel people of all ages, I particularly enjoy seeing children under the age of 18. I also like to provide support for parents and help the family achieve regulation by improving understanding and communication between family members.
I focus on helping my clients understand and heal attachment issues, processing of trauma, resolving parenting difficulties, and work/life conflicts. My goal is to give my clients a place to feel safe to discuss the stresses and troubles they may be experiencing. Although I counsel people of all ages, I particularly enjoy seeing children under the age of 18. I also like to provide support for parents and help the family achieve regulation by improving understanding and communication between family members.
(253) 237-4973 View (253) 237-4973
Photo of Janna Bushaw, Counselor, MBA, MA, LMHC, NCC
Janna Bushaw
Counselor, MBA, MA, LMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
There are universal experiences that can cause us to question everything we have learned about who we are within ourselves and in connection to others. It’s in these times it can be difficult to meet life on life’s terms; when looking on the bright side, persistence and grit no longer get us through the day. This has been especially true this past severalyears. The most profound change being our ability to be connected to each other and having shared experiences to look forward to.
There are universal experiences that can cause us to question everything we have learned about who we are within ourselves and in connection to others. It’s in these times it can be difficult to meet life on life’s terms; when looking on the bright side, persistence and grit no longer get us through the day. This has been especially true this past severalyears. The most profound change being our ability to be connected to each other and having shared experiences to look forward to.
(253) 262-0681 View (253) 262-0681
Photo of Alison Bekker - Alison Bekker Therapy Services, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BS, MA, LMFTA
Alison Bekker Therapy Services, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BS, MA, LMFTA
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
Are you facing difficulties in life that are leaving you feeling stuck and alone? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner or loved one and can't figure out how to make it better? Are you facing a new stage in life bringing uncertainty, hardships and strains on your mental health? You've come to a helpful space. I am deeply passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life's challenges. I am here to offer clients a safe, supportive, compassionate environment as we develop more effective ways to overcome obstacles, build healthier relationships and bring about healing and growth.
Are you facing difficulties in life that are leaving you feeling stuck and alone? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner or loved one and can't figure out how to make it better? Are you facing a new stage in life bringing uncertainty, hardships and strains on your mental health? You've come to a helpful space. I am deeply passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life's challenges. I am here to offer clients a safe, supportive, compassionate environment as we develop more effective ways to overcome obstacles, build healthier relationships and bring about healing and growth.
(253) 796-8983 View (253) 796-8983
Photo of Jenn Hopper, Counselor, LMHCA
Jenn Hopper
Counselor, LMHCA
Tacoma, WA 98406
Jenn offers telehealth therapy for children (10+), teens, and adults that is rooted in creativity. As a counselor that specializes in art therapy, Jenn works collaboratively with her clients to create a safe and accepting space that allows for the expression of thoughts and feelings that feel too overwhelming to talk about. You don't have to be an artist to use creative tools to break through the challenges that are bringing you to therapy, Jenn will be there to guide you in ways to use art, music, and other creative outlets as a tool for healing.
Jenn offers telehealth therapy for children (10+), teens, and adults that is rooted in creativity. As a counselor that specializes in art therapy, Jenn works collaboratively with her clients to create a safe and accepting space that allows for the expression of thoughts and feelings that feel too overwhelming to talk about. You don't have to be an artist to use creative tools to break through the challenges that are bringing you to therapy, Jenn will be there to guide you in ways to use art, music, and other creative outlets as a tool for healing.
(253) 652-5438 View (253) 652-5438
Photo of Marjory Ware, Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Marjory Ware
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFT
12 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
Does it feel like no matter what you do, things never change? You’re running on all cylinders, trying to be everything for everyone, including yourself. You tell everyone that you are fine. Managing. But you’re noticing how it’s impacting you. You realize that things need to change. Whether you're experiencing the impacts of systemic oppression, self-esteem, or relationship issues, know that you don't have to be alone in this journey. No two individuals are the same, and I tailor our sessions together to address challenges unique to you. We will work together to understand and address the root cause of those issues.
Does it feel like no matter what you do, things never change? You’re running on all cylinders, trying to be everything for everyone, including yourself. You tell everyone that you are fine. Managing. But you’re noticing how it’s impacting you. You realize that things need to change. Whether you're experiencing the impacts of systemic oppression, self-esteem, or relationship issues, know that you don't have to be alone in this journey. No two individuals are the same, and I tailor our sessions together to address challenges unique to you. We will work together to understand and address the root cause of those issues.
(253) 649-2995 View (253) 649-2995
Photo of Mary Allison Jensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CMHS
Mary Allison Jensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CMHS
Tacoma, WA 98406
My clients have carried the weight of early family dynamics into their current life. They may have always been the “strong one” or the dependable caretaker who learned to put others’ needs before their own. Over time, these roles and patterns have left them feeling stuck, exhausted, or disconnected from who they truly are. They come to therapy seeking relief from repeating cycles that no longer serve them—whether in relationships, self-talk, or the boundaries they struggle to set. Their goals are to heal old wounds, reshape their sense of identity, and create patterns rooted in self-compassion and authenticity.
My clients have carried the weight of early family dynamics into their current life. They may have always been the “strong one” or the dependable caretaker who learned to put others’ needs before their own. Over time, these roles and patterns have left them feeling stuck, exhausted, or disconnected from who they truly are. They come to therapy seeking relief from repeating cycles that no longer serve them—whether in relationships, self-talk, or the boundaries they struggle to set. Their goals are to heal old wounds, reshape their sense of identity, and create patterns rooted in self-compassion and authenticity.
(253) 234-7292 View (253) 234-7292
Photo of Tracie Bonjour, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Tracie Bonjour
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I work with individuals and with couples needing support in relationships. My goal is to help you build confidence and to feel safe with difficult emotions. We’ll explore where you are getting stuck, what experiences shaped your sense of self, and identify your strengths and limitations. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy with couples to build stronger connections and to adapt better communication skills. I also work with couples who are parents. I believe in asking deeper questions that help you explore your inner world, tap into your wisdom, and develop greater trust in your instincts and decision-making abilities.
I work with individuals and with couples needing support in relationships. My goal is to help you build confidence and to feel safe with difficult emotions. We’ll explore where you are getting stuck, what experiences shaped your sense of self, and identify your strengths and limitations. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy with couples to build stronger connections and to adapt better communication skills. I also work with couples who are parents. I believe in asking deeper questions that help you explore your inner world, tap into your wisdom, and develop greater trust in your instincts and decision-making abilities.
(253) 600-3507 View (253) 600-3507
Photo of Erin Manning, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Erin Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Tacoma, WA 98406
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a space for individuals and families to feel safe and open as we work through some of life's hardest challenges. It can feel overwhelming considering where to start and what to tackle first. Seeking guidance takes a lot of strength and courage.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a space for individuals and families to feel safe and open as we work through some of life's hardest challenges. It can feel overwhelming considering where to start and what to tackle first. Seeking guidance takes a lot of strength and courage.
(253) 793-0858 View (253) 793-0858
Photo of Kimberlee Jackson, Licensed Social Worker Associate , LSWAIC
Kimberlee Jackson
Licensed Social Worker Associate , LSWAIC
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I’m a Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC) at Tacoma Wellness Collective, where I provide therapy for anyone seeking support with trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. I hold a master’s degree in social work with a focus on trauma and mental health. My professional background includes working with individuals in crisis, co-responding with local law enforcement, and supporting people experiencing self-harm, suicidality, or significant emotional distress. These experiences have shaped my belief that healing happens when people feel seen, safe, and supported without judgment.
I’m a Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC) at Tacoma Wellness Collective, where I provide therapy for anyone seeking support with trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. I hold a master’s degree in social work with a focus on trauma and mental health. My professional background includes working with individuals in crisis, co-responding with local law enforcement, and supporting people experiencing self-harm, suicidality, or significant emotional distress. These experiences have shaped my belief that healing happens when people feel seen, safe, and supported without judgment.
(253) 867-9652 View (253) 867-9652
Photo of Mary Jensen - Tacoma Wellness Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tacoma Wellness Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tacoma, WA 98406
At Tacoma Wellness Collective, we offer individual therapy and evidence-based care that’s compassionate, collaborative, and deeply respectful of your lived experience. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, a life transition, or burnout, our licensed therapists are here to help you understand your story so you can move toward what matters most to you. Our therapists honor you as the expert in your own life — offering evidence-based care that’s collaborative, trauma-informed, and deeply respectful of your unique needs. Therapy here isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s a collaborative process.
At Tacoma Wellness Collective, we offer individual therapy and evidence-based care that’s compassionate, collaborative, and deeply respectful of your lived experience. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, a life transition, or burnout, our licensed therapists are here to help you understand your story so you can move toward what matters most to you. Our therapists honor you as the expert in your own life — offering evidence-based care that’s collaborative, trauma-informed, and deeply respectful of your unique needs. Therapy here isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s a collaborative process.
(253) 453-8843 View (253) 453-8843
Photo of Laura Ann Johnson, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Laura Ann Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Tacoma, WA 98406
For 2 decades I have empowered and walked beside many clients as they have overcome difficult and stressful issues in their lives. While I am comfortable working with many mental health issues, I have developed special interest in walking beside woman in their journey with cancer, working with individuals on the gender spectrum, working with adolescents, and walking along side of people who are experiencing grief and depression. I believe that I easily hold out hope for others until they can hope for themselves.
For 2 decades I have empowered and walked beside many clients as they have overcome difficult and stressful issues in their lives. While I am comfortable working with many mental health issues, I have developed special interest in walking beside woman in their journey with cancer, working with individuals on the gender spectrum, working with adolescents, and walking along side of people who are experiencing grief and depression. I believe that I easily hold out hope for others until they can hope for themselves.
(253) 259-2931 View (253) 259-2931
Photo of Kimberly Meade, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kimberly Meade
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I love listening to people's stories. I have been a therapist for over 25 years and am drawn to the thoughts, feelings and experiences that become our personal journey. I work with children, teens and adults. I am married and have 4 children. You can trust that I understand the excruciating joy of navigating life with many different personalities. I have worked as a therapist in homes and offices, taught parent trainings in groups and to individuals, consulted with teachers and families in local school districts, and worked at a local hospital.
I love listening to people's stories. I have been a therapist for over 25 years and am drawn to the thoughts, feelings and experiences that become our personal journey. I work with children, teens and adults. I am married and have 4 children. You can trust that I understand the excruciating joy of navigating life with many different personalities. I have worked as a therapist in homes and offices, taught parent trainings in groups and to individuals, consulted with teachers and families in local school districts, and worked at a local hospital.
(253) 248-7271 View (253) 248-7271
Neil Kirkpatrick
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I believe that every person deserves the highest quality of care and that treatment decisions should be based on more than just opinion. I make an ongoing effort to keep up with the latest scientific research and offer only scientifically evaluated treatments, known as Evidence Based Practices (EBP). I place a high value on developing a warm, collaborative relationship between client and therapist and implementing EBPs in a way that honors the values and preferences of the client and family. I believe that well researched treatments provided by a skilled and engaging therapist will result in the most effective treatments.
I believe that every person deserves the highest quality of care and that treatment decisions should be based on more than just opinion. I make an ongoing effort to keep up with the latest scientific research and offer only scientifically evaluated treatments, known as Evidence Based Practices (EBP). I place a high value on developing a warm, collaborative relationship between client and therapist and implementing EBPs in a way that honors the values and preferences of the client and family. I believe that well researched treatments provided by a skilled and engaging therapist will result in the most effective treatments.
(253) 299-8298 View (253) 299-8298
Photo of Laurel Madson-Lawson, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Laurel Madson-Lawson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
Welcome! I am an Individual & Couples Counselor, working to improve connections and communication; to regain trust, compassion, and empathy. I specialize in Eating Disorders and Couples Conflict, with training from Residential Treatment facilities and managing a milieu for Outpatient Recovery. I am an artist who incorporates art therapy into sessions, as well as, EMDR. I would love to help you, or you and your partner in your recovery journey!
Welcome! I am an Individual & Couples Counselor, working to improve connections and communication; to regain trust, compassion, and empathy. I specialize in Eating Disorders and Couples Conflict, with training from Residential Treatment facilities and managing a milieu for Outpatient Recovery. I am an artist who incorporates art therapy into sessions, as well as, EMDR. I would love to help you, or you and your partner in your recovery journey!
(253) 650-0166 View (253) 650-0166

See more therapy options for 98406

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98406

100+

Average cost per session

$154

Therapists in 98406 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
70% Life Transitions
68% Self Esteem
67% Relationship Issues
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Premera Blue Cross
65% Regence
63% Aetna

How Therapists in 98406 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98406?

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.