Therapists in Cedar Park, TX

Photo of Bobbi Ai Marsh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Bobbi Ai Marsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Waitlist for new clients
The ideal client is a one who participates in therapy with a strong desire to learn and create personal, and interpersonal growth. One that shows courage in reaching out for help, and acknowledging their imperfections as true strengths. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, relational challenges, interpersonal challenges, grief and loss, anger, substance use/abuse, or simply wishing to understand their own process better. Therapy is a process which must enlist mutual trust and respect of the client, and therapist, in order to create a refreshed perspective to heal old wounds and patterns.
The ideal client is a one who participates in therapy with a strong desire to learn and create personal, and interpersonal growth. One that shows courage in reaching out for help, and acknowledging their imperfections as true strengths. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, relational challenges, interpersonal challenges, grief and loss, anger, substance use/abuse, or simply wishing to understand their own process better. Therapy is a process which must enlist mutual trust and respect of the client, and therapist, in order to create a refreshed perspective to heal old wounds and patterns.
(915) 745-7219 View (915) 745-7219
Photo of Robert L Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Robert L Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I sincerely appreciate that you have taken the time to consider giving me the opportunity to be a help to you or your loved ones. The focus of my practice is Trauma and Dissociation and Trauma related struggles. I currently offer counseling services for Individual Adults/Teens 16 and older. Are you struggling with uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, anxiety, depression, flashbacks or feeling disconnected? Do you have a history of childhood trauma or abuse? Have you had a recent traumatic event? Are you using coping strategies that are ineffective? Are you struggling to maintain good relationships?
I sincerely appreciate that you have taken the time to consider giving me the opportunity to be a help to you or your loved ones. The focus of my practice is Trauma and Dissociation and Trauma related struggles. I currently offer counseling services for Individual Adults/Teens 16 and older. Are you struggling with uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, anxiety, depression, flashbacks or feeling disconnected? Do you have a history of childhood trauma or abuse? Have you had a recent traumatic event? Are you using coping strategies that are ineffective? Are you struggling to maintain good relationships?
(512) 977-8857 View (512) 977-8857
Photo of Dr. Kelly Gin, Psychologist in Cedar Park, TX
Dr. Kelly Gin
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LSSP
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Dr. Kelly Gin is a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP). She graduated with a M.A. in School Psychology from Texas State University in 2002, and a Ph.D. in School Psychology, with a specialization in School Neuropsychology, in 2010 from Texas Woman's University. She was employed as a LSSP in various school districts in the Dallas (Plano, Highland Park ISDs) and Austin (Leander ISD) areas for 21 years. Reach out to Dr. Gin if you're seeking educational and/or psychological guidance through an evaluation.
Dr. Kelly Gin is a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP). She graduated with a M.A. in School Psychology from Texas State University in 2002, and a Ph.D. in School Psychology, with a specialization in School Neuropsychology, in 2010 from Texas Woman's University. She was employed as a LSSP in various school districts in the Dallas (Plano, Highland Park ISDs) and Austin (Leander ISD) areas for 21 years. Reach out to Dr. Gin if you're seeking educational and/or psychological guidance through an evaluation.
(512) 359-3986 View (512) 359-3986
Photo of Ashley Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Ashley Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Ashley Collins is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individual adults (18+) and couples. She has experience working with mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, and is working to become a trauma-certified counselor. Ashley desires to be a part of her clients’ journey to achieving their goals and making the change(s) they want and need.
Ashley Collins is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individual adults (18+) and couples. She has experience working with mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, and is working to become a trauma-certified counselor. Ashley desires to be a part of her clients’ journey to achieving their goals and making the change(s) they want and need.
(737) 234-8509 View (737) 234-8509
Photo of Kathryn Nin Emery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Kathryn Nin Emery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
After 7 years as a teacher and school counselor, Kathryn (Nin) Emery now serves as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her background was founded on a passion for working with teens, guiding them as they navigate the tumultuous period of adolescence. She will offer a safe, non-judgmental place to support personal growth. Older adolescents will be offered more privileges in privacy, however, parents will remain frequently updated and well-informed. Play therapy is also her passion; a research-based modality of working with younger children.
After 7 years as a teacher and school counselor, Kathryn (Nin) Emery now serves as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her background was founded on a passion for working with teens, guiding them as they navigate the tumultuous period of adolescence. She will offer a safe, non-judgmental place to support personal growth. Older adolescents will be offered more privileges in privacy, however, parents will remain frequently updated and well-informed. Play therapy is also her passion; a research-based modality of working with younger children.
(737) 520-6313 View (737) 520-6313
Photo of Angel Hirsch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Angel Hirsch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
You are strong—lately you’re overwhelmed, afraid of failure, and you find yourself spinning out. You try to push it aside and be strong, but you keep tripping over “it.” That nagging narrative you tell yourself, “I’m a failure,” and the fear, if others find out you will be exposed as weak, powerless, an imposter. The hidden panic courses through you like a constant current. You’re exhausted, but you have to keep going after all, you are the leader, the one others come to for safety. Except, now, you need someone to offer you the felt sense of safety apart from the avoidance of vulnerability, it is too much, you are too much.
You are strong—lately you’re overwhelmed, afraid of failure, and you find yourself spinning out. You try to push it aside and be strong, but you keep tripping over “it.” That nagging narrative you tell yourself, “I’m a failure,” and the fear, if others find out you will be exposed as weak, powerless, an imposter. The hidden panic courses through you like a constant current. You’re exhausted, but you have to keep going after all, you are the leader, the one others come to for safety. Except, now, you need someone to offer you the felt sense of safety apart from the avoidance of vulnerability, it is too much, you are too much.
(512) 525-8360 View (512) 525-8360
Photo of Lakeline Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Lakeline Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Are you seeking support for your own personal empowerment, or working through a challenging life transition? Do your relationships feel lonely or your anxiety and depression feel overwhelming? Are you neurodiverse or gender diverse and looking for a support person or helping your child find one? Therapy can be helpful and provide hope with many life issues. Learning coping skills and cognitive strategies, strengthening personal connections and honoring self can significantly enhance life satisfaction. My goal is to help maximize your individual resources and support you in whatever way is most comfortable to you.
Are you seeking support for your own personal empowerment, or working through a challenging life transition? Do your relationships feel lonely or your anxiety and depression feel overwhelming? Are you neurodiverse or gender diverse and looking for a support person or helping your child find one? Therapy can be helpful and provide hope with many life issues. Learning coping skills and cognitive strategies, strengthening personal connections and honoring self can significantly enhance life satisfaction. My goal is to help maximize your individual resources and support you in whatever way is most comfortable to you.
(512) 607-7846 View (512) 607-7846
Photo of Kindra Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Kindra Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Providing both in-person and virtual sessions at Ellie Mental Health- Cedar Park! Contact me to get started.
Providing both in-person and virtual sessions at Ellie Mental Health- Cedar Park! Contact me to get started.
(737) 259-5292 View (737) 259-5292
Photo of Amanda Styler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Park, TX
Amanda Styler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
Through life’s toughest moments we need a safe place to receive help. Therapy is the process of openly processing and evaluating your unique life events. It is about building up your strengths and coping skills as well as having a safe, judgement free place to openly and honestly express your thoughts and feelings. You are your own expert and as your therapist, my job is to give you the tools to better yourself and help you reach your goals.
Through life’s toughest moments we need a safe place to receive help. Therapy is the process of openly processing and evaluating your unique life events. It is about building up your strengths and coping skills as well as having a safe, judgement free place to openly and honestly express your thoughts and feelings. You are your own expert and as your therapist, my job is to give you the tools to better yourself and help you reach your goals.
(833) 984-2566 View (833) 984-2566
Photo of Jan Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Jan Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
People sometimes struggle with the idea of going to see a counselor. Often it's difficult to know where to begin. Sometimes finding the right counselor can mean finding new hope, new choices--a new life. My task is to create a protected space so that you'll feel comfortable and safe. I listen carefully, objectively, with kindness and humor and without judgment. I respond with training, intuition, insight, honesty, and engage a variety of techniques to meet your presenting issue. I consider it a privilege that clients are willing to share their lives with me and I honor that trust.
People sometimes struggle with the idea of going to see a counselor. Often it's difficult to know where to begin. Sometimes finding the right counselor can mean finding new hope, new choices--a new life. My task is to create a protected space so that you'll feel comfortable and safe. I listen carefully, objectively, with kindness and humor and without judgment. I respond with training, intuition, insight, honesty, and engage a variety of techniques to meet your presenting issue. I consider it a privilege that clients are willing to share their lives with me and I honor that trust.
(361) 444-1906 View (361) 444-1906
Photo of Macy Loera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Park, TX
Macy Loera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Welcome! I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I am passionate and committed to empowering youth, and giving them the tools to overcome challenges they may be facing. I enjoy infusing humor and play to create a warm and supportive atmosphere for my clients.
Welcome! I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I am passionate and committed to empowering youth, and giving them the tools to overcome challenges they may be facing. I enjoy infusing humor and play to create a warm and supportive atmosphere for my clients.
(737) 265-7761 View (737) 265-7761
Photo of Lauren Gage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Lauren Gage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78641
Counseling can help with issues that affect our behaviors and relationships. I’m here to offer support during times of transition. We will explore your attachment style and how you perceive and relate to the world and other people. We will set goals and create a plan to begin your journey of change. I am an ally to individuals in non-traditional relationships who may be facing issues related to non-monogamy, polyamory. I also work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and who are recovering from trauma.
Counseling can help with issues that affect our behaviors and relationships. I’m here to offer support during times of transition. We will explore your attachment style and how you perceive and relate to the world and other people. We will set goals and create a plan to begin your journey of change. I am an ally to individuals in non-traditional relationships who may be facing issues related to non-monogamy, polyamory. I also work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and who are recovering from trauma.
(512) 601-8541 View (512) 601-8541
Photo of Kathy Quinn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Kathy Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Waitlist for new clients
Overcome overwhelm, walk through a difficult situation, navigate negativity! Build a foundation of resilience upon which you can find inner balance and healing energy. Connect the dots of joy, connection and heartfelt knowing on a daily basis. Increase your awareness of self and others to deepen your sense of fulfilment in relationships. Much of my work includes body-oriented psychotherapy, using non-touch, somatic grounding and stabilization techniques. I work well stabilizing physiological responses and sensations due to thoughts, emotions, and relational interactions. Create balance and ignite your energy!
Overcome overwhelm, walk through a difficult situation, navigate negativity! Build a foundation of resilience upon which you can find inner balance and healing energy. Connect the dots of joy, connection and heartfelt knowing on a daily basis. Increase your awareness of self and others to deepen your sense of fulfilment in relationships. Much of my work includes body-oriented psychotherapy, using non-touch, somatic grounding and stabilization techniques. I work well stabilizing physiological responses and sensations due to thoughts, emotions, and relational interactions. Create balance and ignite your energy!
(512) 710-2714 View (512) 710-2714
Photo of Gabrielle Turner, Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Gabrielle Turner
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Are you wishing your child or your spouse came with an instruction manual? Family relationships are how children and adults come to understand themselves and the world and is what all of us most want to get right. So, when children struggle, parents struggle. And when couple falter, the kids feel it, too. My goal in counseling is to help partners, parents and kids build on the love and strengths they already have, learning new ways to interact, communicate, and solve problems. My experience and philosophy both tell me that kids and adults do well when they can. And when we feel better, we all do better.
Are you wishing your child or your spouse came with an instruction manual? Family relationships are how children and adults come to understand themselves and the world and is what all of us most want to get right. So, when children struggle, parents struggle. And when couple falter, the kids feel it, too. My goal in counseling is to help partners, parents and kids build on the love and strengths they already have, learning new ways to interact, communicate, and solve problems. My experience and philosophy both tell me that kids and adults do well when they can. And when we feel better, we all do better.
(737) 250-6617 View (737) 250-6617
Photo of Michelle Summers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Michelle Summers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I work with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. I utilize play therapy with children, solution focused techniques, CBT techniques, supportive therapy, family systems, and other techniques that match the client I am working with. If you have a high deductible or copay, I can accept private pay to make your cost lower. Using insurance? Go to LifeStancehealth.com to find me. All insurance plans accepted and in network.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I work with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. I utilize play therapy with children, solution focused techniques, CBT techniques, supportive therapy, family systems, and other techniques that match the client I am working with. If you have a high deductible or copay, I can accept private pay to make your cost lower. Using insurance? Go to LifeStancehealth.com to find me. All insurance plans accepted and in network.
(512) 710-0990 View (512) 710-0990
Photo of Lindsay Noethlich, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cedar Park, TX
Lindsay Noethlich
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC- A
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Families are a system and when one a part of the system is disrupted it can affect the entire system. Lindsay is looking forward to working with couples and families. Her focus is couples who are facing divorce or working to reconcile, blended families, parenting, co-parenting and seeing members of the family on an individual bases who are working through depression and anxiety ages 12+. Our past can be difficult, but we all have the power to take charge of our lives and author our future. Finding our strengths in solutions is Lindsay's focus on challenging her clients in their healing process.
Families are a system and when one a part of the system is disrupted it can affect the entire system. Lindsay is looking forward to working with couples and families. Her focus is couples who are facing divorce or working to reconcile, blended families, parenting, co-parenting and seeing members of the family on an individual bases who are working through depression and anxiety ages 12+. Our past can be difficult, but we all have the power to take charge of our lives and author our future. Finding our strengths in solutions is Lindsay's focus on challenging her clients in their healing process.
(737) 510-7652 View (737) 510-7652
Photo of Laura Polasek Barretto, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Laura Polasek Barretto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have a passion for walking down the road of life with my clients, and allowing them to make positive changes using their own, individual strengths and abilities. I started an Austin-based private practice 10 years ago, and prior to that I worked with teens in a school setting. I have also worked and volunteered at domestic abuse recovery centers for women. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and have several other approaches I use in order to individualize treatment for each client. I currently specialize in virtual therapy with clients over age 18.
I have a passion for walking down the road of life with my clients, and allowing them to make positive changes using their own, individual strengths and abilities. I started an Austin-based private practice 10 years ago, and prior to that I worked with teens in a school setting. I have also worked and volunteered at domestic abuse recovery centers for women. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and have several other approaches I use in order to individualize treatment for each client. I currently specialize in virtual therapy with clients over age 18.
(512) 488-9474 View (512) 488-9474
Photo of Theresa Valero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Park, TX
Theresa Valero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Hello, I'm Theresa, and my passion is in supporting individuals, both adults and children, who have been affected by the complexities of life—trauma, domestic violence, medical conditions, and the profound depths of grief and bereavement. As a professional dedicated to fostering healing and resilience, I've made it my life's work to create a safe space where people can bravely navigate their pain and find the strength to embark on a journey toward recovery. I understand the intricate paths of trauma, the complexities of domestic violence, the challenges posed by medical conditions, and the unique pain of grief and bereavement.
Hello, I'm Theresa, and my passion is in supporting individuals, both adults and children, who have been affected by the complexities of life—trauma, domestic violence, medical conditions, and the profound depths of grief and bereavement. As a professional dedicated to fostering healing and resilience, I've made it my life's work to create a safe space where people can bravely navigate their pain and find the strength to embark on a journey toward recovery. I understand the intricate paths of trauma, the complexities of domestic violence, the challenges posed by medical conditions, and the unique pain of grief and bereavement.
(512) 886-8623 View (512) 886-8623
Photo of Nicole Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Park, TX
Nicole Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
(737) 215-3881 View (737) 215-3881
Photo of Molly Roth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Park, TX
Molly Roth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
You feel stuck. Trauma does that. It leaves you feeling disconnected from yourself and others. When you are disconnected from yourself, it's really difficult to make decisions, feel motivated to do anything, or feel like you are living at all. When you are disconnected from others, it's isolating, lonely, and can cause ruptures in important relationships. Trauma is any experience that is too much for your system to handle and can occur at any point in your life. These experiences leave you feeling unbalanced, scattered, and, at times, tormented by the past. You long to feel like yourself again, or maybe for the first time.
You feel stuck. Trauma does that. It leaves you feeling disconnected from yourself and others. When you are disconnected from yourself, it's really difficult to make decisions, feel motivated to do anything, or feel like you are living at all. When you are disconnected from others, it's isolating, lonely, and can cause ruptures in important relationships. Trauma is any experience that is too much for your system to handle and can occur at any point in your life. These experiences leave you feeling unbalanced, scattered, and, at times, tormented by the past. You long to feel like yourself again, or maybe for the first time.
(512) 817-0963 View (512) 817-0963

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cedar Park, TX

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Cedar Park, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
68% Coping Skills
67% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
75% Aetna
66% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Cedar Park, TX see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cedar Park?

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.