Therapists in Weddington, NC

Photo of Melinda Willison, Counselor in Weddington, NC
Melinda Willison
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
Humanity thrives through relationships, yet these same relationships often spawn challenges creating various levels and types of mental distress. Mental distress leads to second guessing, criticism of self and others, even hopelessness. As a result, gaining a guide to support personal navigation through the situational dynamics are desired in order to gain insight and skills to be confident in steps forward to a better life.
Humanity thrives through relationships, yet these same relationships often spawn challenges creating various levels and types of mental distress. Mental distress leads to second guessing, criticism of self and others, even hopelessness. As a result, gaining a guide to support personal navigation through the situational dynamics are desired in order to gain insight and skills to be confident in steps forward to a better life.
(704) 286-8622 View (704) 286-8622
Photo of Chudney Drew, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Weddington, NC
Chudney Drew
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
Oftentimes, attempting to disown our difficult stories to appear more whole or acceptable, depends on the integration of all of our experiences, including the falls. Practicing authenticity in times of adversity allows you to learn to face fears and doubts, to be able to reach deeply within yourself to find out what makes your heart sing, your spirit soar, and your soul at peace. My greatest passion is bringing growth and healing to clients to live with intention and authentically empowered to continually learn about themselves, challenge negative beliefs, and sort through emotional baggage.
Oftentimes, attempting to disown our difficult stories to appear more whole or acceptable, depends on the integration of all of our experiences, including the falls. Practicing authenticity in times of adversity allows you to learn to face fears and doubts, to be able to reach deeply within yourself to find out what makes your heart sing, your spirit soar, and your soul at peace. My greatest passion is bringing growth and healing to clients to live with intention and authentically empowered to continually learn about themselves, challenge negative beliefs, and sort through emotional baggage.
(704) 800-0913 View (704) 800-0913
Photo of Pamela Poston, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Weddington, NC
Pamela Poston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
Not accepting new clients
Call for an appointment if you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness, surgery preparation, prenatal or postpartum depression, relationship challenges, stress management, life skills, life transitions, insomnia, or want to create a healthier lifestyle. I blend Eastern philosophy with Western psychology in my holistic practice. If you have tried traditional therapy and have not found relief, I'd love the opportunity to help you become the best version of yourself. I regret to inform potential clients that I have been and continue to be on medical leave. I will update you when I can practice again. Thanks
Call for an appointment if you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness, surgery preparation, prenatal or postpartum depression, relationship challenges, stress management, life skills, life transitions, insomnia, or want to create a healthier lifestyle. I blend Eastern philosophy with Western psychology in my holistic practice. If you have tried traditional therapy and have not found relief, I'd love the opportunity to help you become the best version of yourself. I regret to inform potential clients that I have been and continue to be on medical leave. I will update you when I can practice again. Thanks
(704) 946-5540 View (704) 946-5540
Photo of Christy Lynne Jacoby (Formerly Lewis), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Weddington, NC
Christy Lynne Jacoby (Formerly Lewis)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
When faced with anxiety or depression, you often wonder if there is anything you can do to truly feel better or transform yourself. It seems like you’ve tried everything, and nothing has worked. Mood issues are causing other issues -trouble relating with others, over/under eating, problems with work or family relationships or even more serious issues. At times, relationship struggles leave you wondering "should I stay or go?" but it can be hard to navigate this alone. The "real you" is in there, but hard to find.
When faced with anxiety or depression, you often wonder if there is anything you can do to truly feel better or transform yourself. It seems like you’ve tried everything, and nothing has worked. Mood issues are causing other issues -trouble relating with others, over/under eating, problems with work or family relationships or even more serious issues. At times, relationship struggles leave you wondering "should I stay or go?" but it can be hard to navigate this alone. The "real you" is in there, but hard to find.
(910) 613-6413 View (910) 613-6413
Photo of Chris Vrabel, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist in Weddington, NC
Chris Vrabel, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
I'm here to listen and help. I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I help people stay organized and focused, cope with anxiety and depression, develop social skills and manage relationships, and adjust to the challenges of life. I specialize in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, executive functioning, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and adjusting to life changes.
I'm here to listen and help. I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I help people stay organized and focused, cope with anxiety and depression, develop social skills and manage relationships, and adjust to the challenges of life. I specialize in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, executive functioning, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and adjusting to life changes.
(704) 237-6572 View (704) 237-6572
Photo of Dionysios Kakouras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Weddington, NC
Dionysios Kakouras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
Do you feel stuck? Reaching out for help may seem frightening, but is a sign of strength. My role as a therapist is to help you rediscover yourself or the parts of you that you've lost. The therapy room is a good place to sift through negative thoughts and disturbing emotions. I believe in the interpersonal process of therapy, the value of the therapeutic relationship, and in working with an individual on a holistic basis, to help him or her alleviate stress and regain a sense of personal freedom.
Do you feel stuck? Reaching out for help may seem frightening, but is a sign of strength. My role as a therapist is to help you rediscover yourself or the parts of you that you've lost. The therapy room is a good place to sift through negative thoughts and disturbing emotions. I believe in the interpersonal process of therapy, the value of the therapeutic relationship, and in working with an individual on a holistic basis, to help him or her alleviate stress and regain a sense of personal freedom.
(980) 372-6121 View (980) 372-6121
Photo of Amy Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Weddington, NC
Amy Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
My passion is building connections with people. I will take the time to build a relationship of trust and understanding in order to best support you. It would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
My passion is building connections with people. I will take the time to build a relationship of trust and understanding in order to best support you. It would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
(704) 251-6611 View (704) 251-6611
Photo of Amy L Sanderson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Weddington, NC
Amy L Sanderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or sad? You are brave to reach out for help. I'm here to support you in moving forward. I truly believe in the therapeutic process and am continually inspired by the progress my clients achieve to create more fulfilling and joyful lives. In addition to office appointments, I offer video counseling, where we communicate through live video in the privacy of your own home. I also offer walk and talk counseling through peaceful, wooded trails. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is an additional modality I use.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or sad? You are brave to reach out for help. I'm here to support you in moving forward. I truly believe in the therapeutic process and am continually inspired by the progress my clients achieve to create more fulfilling and joyful lives. In addition to office appointments, I offer video counseling, where we communicate through live video in the privacy of your own home. I also offer walk and talk counseling through peaceful, wooded trails. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is an additional modality I use.
(980) 400-9377 View (980) 400-9377
Photo of Michelle McDevitt-Askew, Marriage & Family Therapist in Weddington, NC
Michelle McDevitt-Askew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
(980) 263-9313 View (980) 263-9313
Photo of Ed Nissen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Weddington, NC
Ed Nissen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
“For scientific discovery, give me Scott; for speed and efficiency of travel, give me Amundsen; but when you are in a hopeless situation, when you are seeing no way out, get down on your knees and pray for Shackleton.” —Sir Raymond Priestley. Ernest Shackleton, best known for his Antarctic expeditions, in which during the 1914-1916 Endurance expedition, heroically led his crew to safety after their ship was trapped and crushed by Antarctic ice, exemplifying leadership skills in navigating extreme hardships.
“For scientific discovery, give me Scott; for speed and efficiency of travel, give me Amundsen; but when you are in a hopeless situation, when you are seeing no way out, get down on your knees and pray for Shackleton.” —Sir Raymond Priestley. Ernest Shackleton, best known for his Antarctic expeditions, in which during the 1914-1916 Endurance expedition, heroically led his crew to safety after their ship was trapped and crushed by Antarctic ice, exemplifying leadership skills in navigating extreme hardships.
(704) 766-8640 View (704) 766-8640
Photo of Ashley A Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Weddington, NC
Ashley A Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
My goal for therapy is to help individuals and families live the best and most fulfilling lives possible. Sometimes life hands us experiences that we aren't prepared for and struggle to navigate on our own. Individuals face different levels of stress and problems which require varying treatment approaches. My training and experience with evidenced based therapeutic models allows me to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. Taking the first step can be difficult and I am here to help to make this a comfortable process. I look forward to taking these next steps together.
My goal for therapy is to help individuals and families live the best and most fulfilling lives possible. Sometimes life hands us experiences that we aren't prepared for and struggle to navigate on our own. Individuals face different levels of stress and problems which require varying treatment approaches. My training and experience with evidenced based therapeutic models allows me to provide the most effective treatment for my clients. Taking the first step can be difficult and I am here to help to make this a comfortable process. I look forward to taking these next steps together.
(704) 325-5850 View (704) 325-5850
Photo of Victoria Kennedy, Psychologist in Weddington, NC
Victoria Kennedy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have worked for 18 years in private practice and school-based settings in Texas, New Hampshire, and North Carolina. My goal in therapy is to create a friendly, caring atmosphere, and I believe in empowering families by working with parents to manage difficult child behaviors. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy and other strategies to help children and their families with managing stress, anger, sadness, and worry.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have worked for 18 years in private practice and school-based settings in Texas, New Hampshire, and North Carolina. My goal in therapy is to create a friendly, caring atmosphere, and I believe in empowering families by working with parents to manage difficult child behaviors. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy and other strategies to help children and their families with managing stress, anger, sadness, and worry.
(704) 228-4121 View (704) 228-4121
Photo of Carole 'Bentley' Ball, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Weddington, NC
Carole 'Bentley' Ball
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
Not accepting new clients
I feel best suited to work with adult men and women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and/or a sense of powerlessness which limits their participation in life whether it be work, love or play. I am particularly interested in working with adults who are aware of sexual misuse in their childhood or adolescence which may be continuing to have influence on their current situation. I want to provide a space where the unique stories of each client may be named, felt and explored in light of their current relationships for the purpose of finding hope for the future.
I feel best suited to work with adult men and women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and/or a sense of powerlessness which limits their participation in life whether it be work, love or play. I am particularly interested in working with adults who are aware of sexual misuse in their childhood or adolescence which may be continuing to have influence on their current situation. I want to provide a space where the unique stories of each client may be named, felt and explored in light of their current relationships for the purpose of finding hope for the future.
(980) 404-2702 View (980) 404-2702
Photo of Heather Fangman, Counselor in Weddington, NC
Heather Fangman
Counselor, MS Ed, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
Heather Fangman, MS Ed., LCMHC, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor. She graduated from Miami University with a BA in psychology and completed her masters degree in community counseling at Youngstown State University. Heather has experience providing individual, family and group counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults around issues including abuse and neglect, depression and anxiety, postpartum depression, high conflict divorce and reunification therapy, difficult relationships and parenting concerns.
Heather Fangman, MS Ed., LCMHC, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor. She graduated from Miami University with a BA in psychology and completed her masters degree in community counseling at Youngstown State University. Heather has experience providing individual, family and group counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults around issues including abuse and neglect, depression and anxiety, postpartum depression, high conflict divorce and reunification therapy, difficult relationships and parenting concerns.
(980) 321-0180 View (980) 321-0180
Photo of Amanda G. Fink Qualified Supervisor And Counselor, Counselor in Weddington, NC
Amanda G. Fink Qualified Supervisor And Counselor
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, CMC, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104  (Online Only)
Availability for Clients and Supervisees! Do you feel like you're falling short of your own goals? Are you struggling in relationships? A Better You Counseling and Coaching Center is offering Tele-Therapy sessions for clients and Supervisees! (Inquire about Walk and Talk Therapy.) Do you relate to the following: relationship issues, life goal questions, situational & life adjustments, anxiety, grief, or depression? Veteran or Military family member? Your time and resources are valuable. Get in touch with us!
Availability for Clients and Supervisees! Do you feel like you're falling short of your own goals? Are you struggling in relationships? A Better You Counseling and Coaching Center is offering Tele-Therapy sessions for clients and Supervisees! (Inquire about Walk and Talk Therapy.) Do you relate to the following: relationship issues, life goal questions, situational & life adjustments, anxiety, grief, or depression? Veteran or Military family member? Your time and resources are valuable. Get in touch with us!
(980) 400-3444 View (980) 400-3444
Photo of Suzanne Medlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Weddington, NC
Suzanne Medlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
Patient hours: Wed & Fri 8am-2pm. Remote/virtual sessions also available. Are you going through a tough time and feel like life is unraveling before your eyes? Does it seem like nobody understands what you are going through or you're on an emotional rollercoaster? Thought you would never be in this place? Do you feel alone, anxious, depressed and just want to wave a magic wand and feel better? Do you want to feel hopeful you can do things differently? Do you need to take care of yourself?
Patient hours: Wed & Fri 8am-2pm. Remote/virtual sessions also available. Are you going through a tough time and feel like life is unraveling before your eyes? Does it seem like nobody understands what you are going through or you're on an emotional rollercoaster? Thought you would never be in this place? Do you feel alone, anxious, depressed and just want to wave a magic wand and feel better? Do you want to feel hopeful you can do things differently? Do you need to take care of yourself?
(980) 319-1805 View (980) 319-1805
Photo of Sarah Post, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Weddington, NC
Sarah Post
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
Asking for help is hard and can be very scary, the fear of judgement, the fear of weakness, the fear of "going crazy". Yet I believe reaching out for help is one of the bravest things anyone can do. I have a passion for working with individuals with trauma. I also have a passion for working with children. It is never too late to start feeling better about being yourself, whether the work starts in childhood or later in life. I want to help people find peace in themselves whether through change or through acceptance.
Asking for help is hard and can be very scary, the fear of judgement, the fear of weakness, the fear of "going crazy". Yet I believe reaching out for help is one of the bravest things anyone can do. I have a passion for working with individuals with trauma. I also have a passion for working with children. It is never too late to start feeling better about being yourself, whether the work starts in childhood or later in life. I want to help people find peace in themselves whether through change or through acceptance.
(704) 741-1974 View (704) 741-1974
Photo of Chad C Ritterspach, Psychologist in Weddington, NC
Chad C Ritterspach
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weddington, NC 28104
I can help you move toward the life you want. People often have difficulty doing what they want to do. Distressing emotions, thoughts, memories, sensations, and plain old habit push us toward actions that do not reflect our values or our goals. I work with people to improve their focus on what is important to them and overcome whatever barriers keep them from moving in that direction. If you are tired of your thoughts and feelings running your life, I would be happy to help you regain control of your life and start living according to your values and goals.
I can help you move toward the life you want. People often have difficulty doing what they want to do. Distressing emotions, thoughts, memories, sensations, and plain old habit push us toward actions that do not reflect our values or our goals. I work with people to improve their focus on what is important to them and overcome whatever barriers keep them from moving in that direction. If you are tired of your thoughts and feelings running your life, I would be happy to help you regain control of your life and start living according to your values and goals.
(704) 380-9027 View (704) 380-9027
Photo of Meredith Stewart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Weddington, NC
Meredith Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
Sometimes taking care of ourselves is the hardest thing because our lives don't have therapy built in our day. We become masters at believing we are dealing with our struggles, depression, anxiety, yet we never seem to get to a point where we are actually making a change. We see what we are doing isn't working yet we continue to do the same. I work with adults facing a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, mania, adjustment related issues, relationship issues, divorce and grief/loss. I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals find healthy solutions.
Sometimes taking care of ourselves is the hardest thing because our lives don't have therapy built in our day. We become masters at believing we are dealing with our struggles, depression, anxiety, yet we never seem to get to a point where we are actually making a change. We see what we are doing isn't working yet we continue to do the same. I work with adults facing a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, mania, adjustment related issues, relationship issues, divorce and grief/loss. I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals find healthy solutions.
(704) 635-6022 View (704) 635-6022
Photo of Heidi Limbrunner, Psychologist in Weddington, NC
Heidi Limbrunner
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, CEDS
Verified Verified
Weddington, NC 28104
My specialty is in helping children/teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm and difficulty with emotion regulation. I specialize in DBT which is a therapy approach that provides coping skills and strategies that teens and their parents can use to create a happier and healthier life. I have been proving DBT therapy and leading DBT groups for over 15 years. Additionally, I have extensive experience and training in eating disorders and provide Family Based Therapy. In working with teens and children, I believe it's important that parents are involved appropriately in the treatment process.
My specialty is in helping children/teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm and difficulty with emotion regulation. I specialize in DBT which is a therapy approach that provides coping skills and strategies that teens and their parents can use to create a happier and healthier life. I have been proving DBT therapy and leading DBT groups for over 15 years. Additionally, I have extensive experience and training in eating disorders and provide Family Based Therapy. In working with teens and children, I believe it's important that parents are involved appropriately in the treatment process.
(704) 751-0570 View (704) 751-0570

See more therapy options for Weddington

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Weddington, NC

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Weddington, NC who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
94% Depression
81% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills
71% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
59% Aetna

How Therapists in Weddington, NC see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Weddington?

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.