Therapists in Frederick, MD

Photo of Bianca Johnson, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Bianca Johnson
Counselor, NCC , LGPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with years of experience working with teens, couples, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, anger issues, parenting difficulties, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and pregnancy-related concerns. My ideal client is motivated to learn more about themselves, open to self-reflection, willing to engage in the therapeutic process, and committed to making positive changes in their lives. Additionally, they are motivated to work on their issues, have good communication skills, and are willing to be honest and vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with years of experience working with teens, couples, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, anger issues, parenting difficulties, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and pregnancy-related concerns. My ideal client is motivated to learn more about themselves, open to self-reflection, willing to engage in the therapeutic process, and committed to making positive changes in their lives. Additionally, they are motivated to work on their issues, have good communication skills, and are willing to be honest and vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship.
(240) 266-9421 View (240) 266-9421
Photo of Megan Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Megan Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that who you are makes sense. Even when your emotions, behaviors, or relationships are extremely different than what you want them to be. I believe that our feelings carry wisdom, our behaviors serve a function, and our current situation becomes clear in the context of our whole story. With this stance of curiosity and acceptance, I can help you understand the parts of your life that are causing distress and move toward the life you want to be living. I am an ideal fit for clients who want to make a change in their behavior while understanding the way those behaviors have functioned.
My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that who you are makes sense. Even when your emotions, behaviors, or relationships are extremely different than what you want them to be. I believe that our feelings carry wisdom, our behaviors serve a function, and our current situation becomes clear in the context of our whole story. With this stance of curiosity and acceptance, I can help you understand the parts of your life that are causing distress and move toward the life you want to be living. I am an ideal fit for clients who want to make a change in their behavior while understanding the way those behaviors have functioned.
(240) 557-3892 View (240) 557-3892
Photo of Sheliza Inasi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Sheliza Inasi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21703  (Online Only)
No matter where you are in life, challenging moments arise and can become overwhelming and emotionally draining. Past trauma, fears, worries, loss, and constant stress can also make daily functioning difficult. Through a holistic approach to therapy, I use mindfulness, communication, and collaboration to focus on physical, emotional, social, and overall well-being. I offer individualized care to children, adolescents, and adults struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and other mental health, social or emotional difficulties.
No matter where you are in life, challenging moments arise and can become overwhelming and emotionally draining. Past trauma, fears, worries, loss, and constant stress can also make daily functioning difficult. Through a holistic approach to therapy, I use mindfulness, communication, and collaboration to focus on physical, emotional, social, and overall well-being. I offer individualized care to children, adolescents, and adults struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and other mental health, social or emotional difficulties.
(240) 301-1923 View (240) 301-1923
Photo of Merrick McKelvie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Merrick McKelvie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychotherapist with clinical and academic training in social work and women’s and gender studies. My work stems from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and critical social work perspective, and centers on collective relationship building. My approach to therapy is relational at its core and recognizes our need for connectivity with other beings, with ourselves, and with our environments. I have a warm and eclectic approach to therapy and use various methods to help support my clients. I am also currently enrolled in EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy.
I am a psychotherapist with clinical and academic training in social work and women’s and gender studies. My work stems from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and critical social work perspective, and centers on collective relationship building. My approach to therapy is relational at its core and recognizes our need for connectivity with other beings, with ourselves, and with our environments. I have a warm and eclectic approach to therapy and use various methods to help support my clients. I am also currently enrolled in EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy.
(301) 360-4349 View (301) 360-4349
Photo of Kristi Bowerman, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Kristi Bowerman
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor who works with clients of all ages. My approach is person-centered, infused with hope, encouragement and a bit of humor. I believe that each client is a unique individual, and tailor my approach to meet their specific needs.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor who works with clients of all ages. My approach is person-centered, infused with hope, encouragement and a bit of humor. I believe that each client is a unique individual, and tailor my approach to meet their specific needs.
(240) 513-2605 View (240) 513-2605
Photo of Tami Koepp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Tami Koepp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Do You Need Help Making Peace With Your Past and Letting Go? Are you anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed on the inside, yet work hard to remain competent and in control on the outside? I specialize in helping people recover/discover a calm, secure experience of life. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional or physical pain; whether you've had trauma in your past, or experienced a recent loss, break-up, illness or accident - I will help you understand what is happening, resolve disturbing feelings, and apply new skills and solutions.
Do You Need Help Making Peace With Your Past and Letting Go? Are you anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed on the inside, yet work hard to remain competent and in control on the outside? I specialize in helping people recover/discover a calm, secure experience of life. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional or physical pain; whether you've had trauma in your past, or experienced a recent loss, break-up, illness or accident - I will help you understand what is happening, resolve disturbing feelings, and apply new skills and solutions.
(301) 514-4745 View (301) 514-4745
Photo of Martha Boenau, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Martha Boenau
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
Are you someone who has a hard time asking for help but is tired of trying to solve your problems alone? Would you like the support to explore your needs and create a strategy for getting your life and relationships where you want them? I'd like to help. I aim to validate where you're at and give you the practical guidance and structure you need to gain momentum and feel better. Getting started can be the hardest step to take but you will likely feel relieved after reaching out so please do! Together we can help you create a map for managing your stress, improving your relationships and making you feel better about yourself.
Are you someone who has a hard time asking for help but is tired of trying to solve your problems alone? Would you like the support to explore your needs and create a strategy for getting your life and relationships where you want them? I'd like to help. I aim to validate where you're at and give you the practical guidance and structure you need to gain momentum and feel better. Getting started can be the hardest step to take but you will likely feel relieved after reaching out so please do! Together we can help you create a map for managing your stress, improving your relationships and making you feel better about yourself.
(240) 998-1662 View (240) 998-1662
Photo of Nicole K Albertson, Psychologist in Frederick, MD
Nicole K Albertson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
I have been practicing for over 15 years and see patients with a wide range of concerns and struggles. I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma, and related issues in adults and teens. I understand that it can be difficult to seek help; therefore, I highly value establishing safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, and allowing each patient a unique path to health and healing. I also work to collaborate with a treatment team, such as physicians and dietitians, when physical or medical issues need to be addressed.
I have been practicing for over 15 years and see patients with a wide range of concerns and struggles. I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma, and related issues in adults and teens. I understand that it can be difficult to seek help; therefore, I highly value establishing safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, and allowing each patient a unique path to health and healing. I also work to collaborate with a treatment team, such as physicians and dietitians, when physical or medical issues need to be addressed.
(301) 882-5056 View (301) 882-5056
Photo of Maia Gemignani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Maia Gemignani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
If you're thinking of seeking therapy, listen to that inner voice. Whether it turns out to be some simple problem solving or an adventurous journey of self discovery, a therapeutic experience is always valuable. I love my work and feel honored to share in your journey. My approach is warm, light-hearted and down to earth. I am a clinical social worker and have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with adults and couples.
If you're thinking of seeking therapy, listen to that inner voice. Whether it turns out to be some simple problem solving or an adventurous journey of self discovery, a therapeutic experience is always valuable. I love my work and feel honored to share in your journey. My approach is warm, light-hearted and down to earth. I am a clinical social worker and have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with adults and couples.
(240) 813-4552 View (240) 813-4552
Photo of Pamela Richardson Shepp, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Pamela Richardson Shepp
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Not accepting new clients
By the time you make the call for counseling, Life has taken a toll in some serious regard. Brokenness has come upon you in relationship, in spirit, in feeling overwhelmed by challenges. In a serendipitous manner, we come together, as you seek healing and I, as your counselor, strive to be a help and an encourager into a new and brighter day. It is a deep honor and privilege for me to embrace the broken soul and to be trusted to join in the journey from being lost, stuck, or in pain into the possibility of wellness and joy.
By the time you make the call for counseling, Life has taken a toll in some serious regard. Brokenness has come upon you in relationship, in spirit, in feeling overwhelmed by challenges. In a serendipitous manner, we come together, as you seek healing and I, as your counselor, strive to be a help and an encourager into a new and brighter day. It is a deep honor and privilege for me to embrace the broken soul and to be trusted to join in the journey from being lost, stuck, or in pain into the possibility of wellness and joy.
(301) 620-8700 x112 View (301) 620-8700 x112
Photo of Laura Levine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Laura Levine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I understand how debilitating life can be when you have experienced trauma and/or phobias, and I don't want to see you suffer for any longer than you already have. This is why I often utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy during counseling. ART doesn't require you to share details of your experience, and many concerns can be addressed in 3-5 sessions! Imagine being able to go to the dentist without fear, or perhaps you'd like to just experience life without anxiety constantly getting in the way. If you've been considering counseling and now feel ready to make the leap to improve your life satisfaction, I can help!
I understand how debilitating life can be when you have experienced trauma and/or phobias, and I don't want to see you suffer for any longer than you already have. This is why I often utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy during counseling. ART doesn't require you to share details of your experience, and many concerns can be addressed in 3-5 sessions! Imagine being able to go to the dentist without fear, or perhaps you'd like to just experience life without anxiety constantly getting in the way. If you've been considering counseling and now feel ready to make the leap to improve your life satisfaction, I can help!
(240) 366-2597 View (240) 366-2597
Photo of Toresa Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Toresa Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with living as a married single mom which affects your day-to-day life, marriage or ability to function how you used to before kids? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated and lost by the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question if it would be better if you were an actual single mom? Now more than ever moms are fed up about being a married single mom, and anxious about finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with living as a married single mom which affects your day-to-day life, marriage or ability to function how you used to before kids? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated and lost by the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question if it would be better if you were an actual single mom? Now more than ever moms are fed up about being a married single mom, and anxious about finding their place in life.
(240) 913-6897 View (240) 913-6897
Photo of Mary Liz Austin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Mary Liz Austin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Are you looking for a seasoned therapist with years of experience and training who is also affordable and can see you in the comfort of your own home? I am currently working with individuals and couples virtually and am licensed in both Maryland and the District of Columbia. I am trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and in the Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (P.A.C.T). To learn more about P.A.C.T and Somatic Experiencing, please go to my website at www.marylizaustin.com. Virtual sessions save you time and money and work beautifully when guided by the right person.
Are you looking for a seasoned therapist with years of experience and training who is also affordable and can see you in the comfort of your own home? I am currently working with individuals and couples virtually and am licensed in both Maryland and the District of Columbia. I am trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and in the Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (P.A.C.T). To learn more about P.A.C.T and Somatic Experiencing, please go to my website at www.marylizaustin.com. Virtual sessions save you time and money and work beautifully when guided by the right person.
(301) 804-2860 View (301) 804-2860
Photo of Erin Yurchenko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Erin Yurchenko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Seeking therapy is a brave first step! My work largely centers around women's issues, healing from trauma, young adult adjustment issues, relationship difficulties, and helping clients struggling with anxiety (OCD/GAD) and depression. My goal is to help my clients reach their full potential in their personal, relational and professional lives.
Seeking therapy is a brave first step! My work largely centers around women's issues, healing from trauma, young adult adjustment issues, relationship difficulties, and helping clients struggling with anxiety (OCD/GAD) and depression. My goal is to help my clients reach their full potential in their personal, relational and professional lives.
(240) 771-3672 View (240) 771-3672
Photo of Dylan Hartmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Dylan Hartmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
I’m a licensed therapist having worked with a diverse range of clients and struggles. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your desired goals, and offer a laid-back, non-judgemental approach. I am able to offer a Christian perspective in therapy for those who desire it; however, it is always at the request of the client. I do indeed work with individuals of all different faiths, religions, and backgrounds though.
I’m a licensed therapist having worked with a diverse range of clients and struggles. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your desired goals, and offer a laid-back, non-judgemental approach. I am able to offer a Christian perspective in therapy for those who desire it; however, it is always at the request of the client. I do indeed work with individuals of all different faiths, religions, and backgrounds though.
(240) 213-4245 View (240) 213-4245
Photo of Sarah Kahn, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Sarah Kahn
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Immediate Openings for new telehealth clients! I specialize in treating trauma and OCD. I also have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and stress.
Immediate Openings for new telehealth clients! I specialize in treating trauma and OCD. I also have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and stress.
(443) 499-9037 View (443) 499-9037
Photo of Alyssa Einhorn, Art Therapist in Frederick, MD
Alyssa Einhorn
Art Therapist, LGPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Accepting new clients! Immediate openings in mornings and afternoons both in-person and via telehealth. Hi! My name is Alyssa and I am an art therapist practicing at Anchor Counseling Centers. I work to provide a safe, non-judgemental space for individuals to engage in self-exploration and focus on strengths and empowerment. My clinical focus allows individuals to increase self compassion and find balance in their lives. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and stress.
Accepting new clients! Immediate openings in mornings and afternoons both in-person and via telehealth. Hi! My name is Alyssa and I am an art therapist practicing at Anchor Counseling Centers. I work to provide a safe, non-judgemental space for individuals to engage in self-exploration and focus on strengths and empowerment. My clinical focus allows individuals to increase self compassion and find balance in their lives. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and stress.
(240) 820-3746 View (240) 820-3746
Photo of Wendy Gill, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Wendy Gill
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Is your adolescent struggling with making good choices, experiencing anxiety, being bullied, or simply not thriving? When children enter school they may be exposed to new peer pressures, academic demands or uncertainty in their environment. Children tend to withdraw or demonstrate behavior changes when they are faced with challenges they don't know how to navigate. Parents often struggle with how to best support their child. This is where counseling for children, teens and college students can provide guidance in supporting a child's social, emotional and academic growth. Having a neutral adult relationship in their lives can help!
Is your adolescent struggling with making good choices, experiencing anxiety, being bullied, or simply not thriving? When children enter school they may be exposed to new peer pressures, academic demands or uncertainty in their environment. Children tend to withdraw or demonstrate behavior changes when they are faced with challenges they don't know how to navigate. Parents often struggle with how to best support their child. This is where counseling for children, teens and college students can provide guidance in supporting a child's social, emotional and academic growth. Having a neutral adult relationship in their lives can help!
(240) 873-2711 View (240) 873-2711
Photo of Chelsea Hayas-Keller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Chelsea Hayas-Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I have a strong passion for working with parents throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period. This includes the whole perinatal period, birth, postpartum, infertility, and loss. In addition to those populations, I have over 12 years of experience working with specializations such as major life transitions, anxiety, adult adhd, depression, PTSD and complex trauma. I strive to provide therapy through a trauma-informed lens and integrate movement/breathwork in my practice to facilitate your overall wellbeing.
As a therapist, I have a strong passion for working with parents throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period. This includes the whole perinatal period, birth, postpartum, infertility, and loss. In addition to those populations, I have over 12 years of experience working with specializations such as major life transitions, anxiety, adult adhd, depression, PTSD and complex trauma. I strive to provide therapy through a trauma-informed lens and integrate movement/breathwork in my practice to facilitate your overall wellbeing.
(240) 557-8649 View (240) 557-8649
Photo of Veronica Bannon - Creative Therapeutic Connections, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Veronica Bannon - Creative Therapeutic Connections
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I utilize CBT, imagery/relaxation, mindfulness/meditation, role play, play therapy and expressive therapies to address the challenges that children, adolescents and adults face. Therapeutic goals of clients may include increasing self-esteem, improving self-expression, decreasing anxiety, improving self/other awareness, increasing attention span, improving self-control, increasing frustration tolerance, improving anger management, decreasing teasing/bullying, and improving interpersonal relating skills. Clients develop coping mechanisms for high stress, low mood and/or poor communication.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I utilize CBT, imagery/relaxation, mindfulness/meditation, role play, play therapy and expressive therapies to address the challenges that children, adolescents and adults face. Therapeutic goals of clients may include increasing self-esteem, improving self-expression, decreasing anxiety, improving self/other awareness, increasing attention span, improving self-control, increasing frustration tolerance, improving anger management, decreasing teasing/bullying, and improving interpersonal relating skills. Clients develop coping mechanisms for high stress, low mood and/or poor communication.
(301) 842-6011 View (301) 842-6011

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Frederick, MD

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Frederick, MD who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% CareFirst
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Frederick, MD see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
16% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Frederick?

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.