Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Sheaneh Sattari, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
Sheaneh Sattari
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
I am fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior and the workings of the mind, which led me to pursue a career in psychology rooted in my background in neuroscience. My journey in this field has been driven by an insatiable curiosity to understand what shapes us into who we are. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse array of patients, guiding them through their challenges and helping them find answers and solutions. I firmly believe that psychology holds the key to raising awareness about our thought processes, leading to greater self-understanding and personal growth.
I am fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior and the workings of the mind, which led me to pursue a career in psychology rooted in my background in neuroscience. My journey in this field has been driven by an insatiable curiosity to understand what shapes us into who we are. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse array of patients, guiding them through their challenges and helping them find answers and solutions. I firmly believe that psychology holds the key to raising awareness about our thought processes, leading to greater self-understanding and personal growth.
(469) 457-4109 View (469) 457-4109
Photo of Stefan C Waltke, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Stefan C Waltke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072
Have you ever felt like you were in a situation that you have not realized was so bad until recently, but now do not know what to do about it after having lived with it for so long? Maybe it is a situation or a person you have been living with that has been causing you grief? Perhaps a recent trauma has affected you in ways that others have suggested might be unhealthy, even? Perhaps also you struggle with an addiction, and need help breaking free? Sometimes, we might just feel sad about something, or it might be as simple as just not feeling like everything is OK.
Have you ever felt like you were in a situation that you have not realized was so bad until recently, but now do not know what to do about it after having lived with it for so long? Maybe it is a situation or a person you have been living with that has been causing you grief? Perhaps a recent trauma has affected you in ways that others have suggested might be unhealthy, even? Perhaps also you struggle with an addiction, and need help breaking free? Sometimes, we might just feel sad about something, or it might be as simple as just not feeling like everything is OK.
(940) 716-3135 View (940) 716-3135
Photo of Dorit Bunker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Dorit Bunker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Dorit is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker holding a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin- Madison. She has extensive training and over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families in inpatient and outpatient settings, such as behavioral health hospitals, long term care facilities, correctional centers, medical hospitals and private practice. Dorit is passionate about her work, and is currently accepting new clients (13 and up) seeking individual counseling.
Dorit is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker holding a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin- Madison. She has extensive training and over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families in inpatient and outpatient settings, such as behavioral health hospitals, long term care facilities, correctional centers, medical hospitals and private practice. Dorit is passionate about her work, and is currently accepting new clients (13 and up) seeking individual counseling.
(469) 829-7473 View (469) 829-7473
Photo of JoDana M. Varilek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
JoDana M. Varilek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSSW, LCWS
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I have a passion for working with others to improve their quality of life. I have spent over twenty years working with children of all ages, adolescents and adults, whom have had emotional, behavioral, medical and learning challenges. I have experience providing family and marital counseling. My experience also includes working with individuals whom have dual diagnosis using different forms of psychotherapy. I meet my clients where they are to partner with them in making a positive impact in their lives. I choose to live my life by the words of Mahatma Gandhi “You must be the Change you wish to see in the World".
I have a passion for working with others to improve their quality of life. I have spent over twenty years working with children of all ages, adolescents and adults, whom have had emotional, behavioral, medical and learning challenges. I have experience providing family and marital counseling. My experience also includes working with individuals whom have dual diagnosis using different forms of psychotherapy. I meet my clients where they are to partner with them in making a positive impact in their lives. I choose to live my life by the words of Mahatma Gandhi “You must be the Change you wish to see in the World".
(469) 281-6322 View (469) 281-6322
Photo of Pettit Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in McKinney, TX
Pettit Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
Accepting new clients in-person and online! Specializing in couples experiencing infidelity, betrayal trauma, and sexual issues. I work to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment to enhance communication and reduce conflict. I aim to help you develop intentional strategies to work through your challenges and meet your needs. I view mistakes as an opportunity to grow and believe you can find your path to healing. No matter how complex or long-standing the roadblocks are, I am confident we can repair, rebuild and restore.
Accepting new clients in-person and online! Specializing in couples experiencing infidelity, betrayal trauma, and sexual issues. I work to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment to enhance communication and reduce conflict. I aim to help you develop intentional strategies to work through your challenges and meet your needs. I view mistakes as an opportunity to grow and believe you can find your path to healing. No matter how complex or long-standing the roadblocks are, I am confident we can repair, rebuild and restore.
(972) 525-4911 View (972) 525-4911
Photo of Ed Millard, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Ed Millard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I specialize in working with men around areas of sexual brokenness. I seek to help men change how sexual issues such as pornography, masturbation, anonymous sexual partners and impulse control affect their lives. My ideal client is a man who is struggling sexually, who feels like there is no hope. He thinks that if people really knew what he had done, he would lose the people closest to him. His guilt and shame constantly hound him, and he feels like the cycle of addiction can't be broken. He is looking for hope and a safe place to talk through his problems.
I specialize in working with men around areas of sexual brokenness. I seek to help men change how sexual issues such as pornography, masturbation, anonymous sexual partners and impulse control affect their lives. My ideal client is a man who is struggling sexually, who feels like there is no hope. He thinks that if people really knew what he had done, he would lose the people closest to him. His guilt and shame constantly hound him, and he feels like the cycle of addiction can't be broken. He is looking for hope and a safe place to talk through his problems.
(855) 996-9410 View (855) 996-9410
Photo of Melissa Borski, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Melissa Borski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I would describe my style as warm and supportive. I believe that there is a longing at the core of every human being; a longing to be heard, understood, loved, valued, and accepted. We all have unfinished business, whether it’s with parents, siblings, in-laws, our children, betrayers, teachers, abusers, bullies, co-workers, ex-spouses, or people who are out of our lives that we want back in. Over time the baggage we carry around in our hearts and minds can overwhelm us. We sometimes create behaviors to cover our pain and vulnerabilities. Counseling is a place for guidance, reflection, trust, and unconditional acceptance.
Welcome! I would describe my style as warm and supportive. I believe that there is a longing at the core of every human being; a longing to be heard, understood, loved, valued, and accepted. We all have unfinished business, whether it’s with parents, siblings, in-laws, our children, betrayers, teachers, abusers, bullies, co-workers, ex-spouses, or people who are out of our lives that we want back in. Over time the baggage we carry around in our hearts and minds can overwhelm us. We sometimes create behaviors to cover our pain and vulnerabilities. Counseling is a place for guidance, reflection, trust, and unconditional acceptance.
(214) 239-3233 View (214) 239-3233
Photo of Jessica Utley, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jessica Utley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern in the state of Texas. I obtained my Masters of Science in Family Studies from Texas Woman's University, in addition to a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. I am passionate about helping those who have experienced trauma, and have found joy in working with the unique niche of first responders. When you have suffered trauma and it seems like no one understands, I can guide you in learning how to cope and assist with regaining control of your life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern in the state of Texas. I obtained my Masters of Science in Family Studies from Texas Woman's University, in addition to a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. I am passionate about helping those who have experienced trauma, and have found joy in working with the unique niche of first responders. When you have suffered trauma and it seems like no one understands, I can guide you in learning how to cope and assist with regaining control of your life.
(430) 443-3082 View (430) 443-3082
Photo of Remmy Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Remmy Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, abandonment, codependency, childhood issues including abuse/neglect, family of origin issues, life transitions, PTSD, and relationship issues. I am also passionate about helping clients recover from narcissistic abuse. As a therapist, I collaborate with you on goals for treatment and give you autonomy in your healing process. I believe the therapeutic relationship provides healing for attachment wounds and other various forms of trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, abandonment, codependency, childhood issues including abuse/neglect, family of origin issues, life transitions, PTSD, and relationship issues. I am also passionate about helping clients recover from narcissistic abuse. As a therapist, I collaborate with you on goals for treatment and give you autonomy in your healing process. I believe the therapeutic relationship provides healing for attachment wounds and other various forms of trauma.
(469) 966-7902 View (469) 966-7902
Photo of Shabnam (Shabee) Behzad, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Shabnam (Shabee) Behzad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Are you looking for a change? Do you have a child or teen who is struggling at home or at school or with peers? Sometimes making the first step is difficult...let me help walk the journey with you! I'm a Play Therapist and enjoy working with children ages 2+, adolescents and adults and helping them find their potential for growth and insight. I have experience working with childhood and adolescent issues, life transitions, trauma, abuse, addiction, divorce, parent training, relationships, and social skills. I offer play therapy, activity therapy, as well as traditional talk therapy for individuals, and families.
Are you looking for a change? Do you have a child or teen who is struggling at home or at school or with peers? Sometimes making the first step is difficult...let me help walk the journey with you! I'm a Play Therapist and enjoy working with children ages 2+, adolescents and adults and helping them find their potential for growth and insight. I have experience working with childhood and adolescent issues, life transitions, trauma, abuse, addiction, divorce, parent training, relationships, and social skills. I offer play therapy, activity therapy, as well as traditional talk therapy for individuals, and families.
(214) 833-6793 View (214) 833-6793
Photo of Counseling By Kate, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Counseling By Kate
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
LIMITED AVAILABILITY & ONLY ACCEPTING NEW CASH PAY CLIENTS: Individual & Group Counseling, Coparenting, Parent Coach, Parenting Coordination & Collaborative Law. I am dedicating to providing clients with effective counseling methods to meet their personal needs and unleash their potential. Results and positive intervention are my goal in the therapeutic process. Although, my goal is to provide brief therapy, some clients may need more time to achieve the goals they set out for themselves. I will work with clients to achieve the trust, respect, honesty, and warmth that a counseling relationship demands.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY & ONLY ACCEPTING NEW CASH PAY CLIENTS: Individual & Group Counseling, Coparenting, Parent Coach, Parenting Coordination & Collaborative Law. I am dedicating to providing clients with effective counseling methods to meet their personal needs and unleash their potential. Results and positive intervention are my goal in the therapeutic process. Although, my goal is to provide brief therapy, some clients may need more time to achieve the goals they set out for themselves. I will work with clients to achieve the trust, respect, honesty, and warmth that a counseling relationship demands.
(360) 329-2940 View (360) 329-2940
Photo of Chris Olson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Chris Olson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
“It’s okay if you fall apart sometimes. Tacos fall apart and we still love them.” At any given point, we are all doing the best we can to survive using what we know. My name is Chris Olson, and I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, and aggression, and focus on rebuilding identity, trust, self-awareness, and self-esteem. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families.
“It’s okay if you fall apart sometimes. Tacos fall apart and we still love them.” At any given point, we are all doing the best we can to survive using what we know. My name is Chris Olson, and I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, and aggression, and focus on rebuilding identity, trust, self-awareness, and self-esteem. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families.
(469) 908-3465 View (469) 908-3465
Photo of Behavior Network, Inc. in McKinney, TX
Behavior Network, Inc.
PhD, BCBA-D, CBIS, NADD-CC, LBA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Behavior Network, Inc. was founded on the principle of providing effective evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practices for individuals across the lifespan from children to adults. Our clients typically come to us with severe behaviors; they may have a diagnosis that includes Autism, Aspergers, Intellectual Disability or Mental Illness.
Behavior Network, Inc. was founded on the principle of providing effective evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practices for individuals across the lifespan from children to adults. Our clients typically come to us with severe behaviors; they may have a diagnosis that includes Autism, Aspergers, Intellectual Disability or Mental Illness.
(469) 713-1758 View (469) 713-1758
Photo of Gloria Howell, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Gloria Howell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Are you struggling in your relationship to find a communication style that creates more intimacy and closeness? Are you depressed and unhappy and cannot find a way out to happiness and inner peace? I see my role as assisting you in understanding your challenges.I assist clients in achieving their goals in becoming emotionally, and physically healthy individuals.
Are you struggling in your relationship to find a communication style that creates more intimacy and closeness? Are you depressed and unhappy and cannot find a way out to happiness and inner peace? I see my role as assisting you in understanding your challenges.I assist clients in achieving their goals in becoming emotionally, and physically healthy individuals.
(512) 649-0296 View (512) 649-0296
Photo of Mary D. Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Mary D. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CTMH, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Mary is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Mary earned her Master of Science degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, where she received specialty training in Activity Therapy, Group Counseling, Family Therapy, and Child-Parent Relationship Training. Mary has additional training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Teens and Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy for Children.
Mary is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Mary earned her Master of Science degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, where she received specialty training in Activity Therapy, Group Counseling, Family Therapy, and Child-Parent Relationship Training. Mary has additional training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Teens and Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy for Children.
(972) 945-8750 View (972) 945-8750
Photo of Lindsey Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Lindsey Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and I received my Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from UT Southwestern, graduating in 2016. I have experience as a crisis counselor for the community helping children, teens, and adults experiencing suicidal/homicidal ideation. In private practice, I assist individuals suffering from a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, and various family issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and I received my Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from UT Southwestern, graduating in 2016. I have experience as a crisis counselor for the community helping children, teens, and adults experiencing suicidal/homicidal ideation. In private practice, I assist individuals suffering from a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, and various family issues.
(214) 278-6496 View (214) 278-6496
Photo of Akisha Simon, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Akisha Simon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Imagine living your life with as few regrets as possible; you can have what you see for yourself. Let us work together to help you achieve your goals and reduce barriers to your dreams. Our work will be demanding but rewarding. No one's Journey should be solitary allow me to support and encourage you. The people I help normally struggle with healing from childhood abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, loneliness or feeling as if they are not enough. But when we work together, they learn skills specifically tailored to their healing.
Imagine living your life with as few regrets as possible; you can have what you see for yourself. Let us work together to help you achieve your goals and reduce barriers to your dreams. Our work will be demanding but rewarding. No one's Journey should be solitary allow me to support and encourage you. The people I help normally struggle with healing from childhood abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, loneliness or feeling as if they are not enough. But when we work together, they learn skills specifically tailored to their healing.
(972) 433-9857 View (972) 433-9857
Photo of Ashley Payne Abernathy, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Ashley Payne Abernathy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Ashley Abernathy and I am excited to be able to offer counseling services to you. I believe in the process of counseling and I have seen the relief it can bring to those who are feeling overwhelmed, confused and exhausted. I provide a safe place to process a variety of concerns including disappointments, emotional pain, and sudden loss. My goals are to equip you with tools that will give you confidence to walk through whatever you are facing and to be a source of support along your journey. I believe that God has a plan for the pain in our lives and that there is hope for each of us.
Hi! My name is Ashley Abernathy and I am excited to be able to offer counseling services to you. I believe in the process of counseling and I have seen the relief it can bring to those who are feeling overwhelmed, confused and exhausted. I provide a safe place to process a variety of concerns including disappointments, emotional pain, and sudden loss. My goals are to equip you with tools that will give you confidence to walk through whatever you are facing and to be a source of support along your journey. I believe that God has a plan for the pain in our lives and that there is hope for each of us.
(214) 428-6505 View (214) 428-6505
Photo of Anna Doroshuk, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Anna Doroshuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
There is always hope; in every situation, in every relationship, through every hardship. Each one of us is a lot more equipped to face, overcome and thrive through adversity than we realize. A great place to start on this journey of self-discovery is in therapy; a space that's safe emotionally, mentally and physically.
There is always hope; in every situation, in every relationship, through every hardship. Each one of us is a lot more equipped to face, overcome and thrive through adversity than we realize. A great place to start on this journey of self-discovery is in therapy; a space that's safe emotionally, mentally and physically.
(214) 624-7627 View (214) 624-7627
Photo of Kara English, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Kara English
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am a seasoned Licensed Professional and Chemical Dependency Counselor with over 30 years of combined experience in Counseling, Coaching, Training, and Administration. I love helping people work through the struggles of drug and alcohol addictions. I also work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, and life transitions.
I am a seasoned Licensed Professional and Chemical Dependency Counselor with over 30 years of combined experience in Counseling, Coaching, Training, and Administration. I love helping people work through the struggles of drug and alcohol addictions. I also work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, and life transitions.
(214) 393-5207 View (214) 393-5207

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in McKinney, TX

600+

Average cost per session

$142

Therapists in McKinney, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in McKinney, TX see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in McKinney?

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.