Therapists in Rockford, IL

Photo of Corina McCulloh, Counselor in Rockford, IL
Corina McCulloh
Counselor, BSEd, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
"If you are struggling with life adjustments, relationships, work life balance, stress, anxiety, depression and just do not feel your life is where it should be, I want to help you. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal and become stronger and more confident. Let me walk with you on that path to success and self care toward a stronger and healthier you." Corina McCulloh B.S.Ed, MS. NCC, LCPC, is a clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and a licensed educator (PEL) in the state of Illinois. Corina has therapeutic experience with children, adolescents, and adults.
"If you are struggling with life adjustments, relationships, work life balance, stress, anxiety, depression and just do not feel your life is where it should be, I want to help you. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal and become stronger and more confident. Let me walk with you on that path to success and self care toward a stronger and healthier you." Corina McCulloh B.S.Ed, MS. NCC, LCPC, is a clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and a licensed educator (PEL) in the state of Illinois. Corina has therapeutic experience with children, adolescents, and adults.
(779) 223-1864 View (779) 223-1864
Photo of MH Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Rockford, IL
MH Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, MACL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
Waitlist for new clients
It is my personal belief that when individuals experience any Stress, Anxiety, Panic, or Trauma - they feel that life is unraveling and discouraging. For the past 19 years I have been helping patients heal and learn to overcome life's unexpected challenges. I enjoy developing "specific plans" for patients personal needs. I encourage all my patients to learn healthy ways of changing negative perceptions about themselves and the world around them. I am trained as an EMDR Practitioner.
It is my personal belief that when individuals experience any Stress, Anxiety, Panic, or Trauma - they feel that life is unraveling and discouraging. For the past 19 years I have been helping patients heal and learn to overcome life's unexpected challenges. I enjoy developing "specific plans" for patients personal needs. I encourage all my patients to learn healthy ways of changing negative perceptions about themselves and the world around them. I am trained as an EMDR Practitioner.
(815) 475-9089 View (815) 475-9089
Photo of Spring M Johansson Patel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rockford, IL
Spring M Johansson Patel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
Tired of feeling like something is missing or just not right in life? Tired of living in survival mode? Let’s learn about how that affects the nervous system and causes changes in the brain. Therapy is personalized to meet each clients specific needs for where they are on their path of life. Gaining knowledge of the effects of toxic shame, the ego and how our inner child have an impact on our adult life can also assist in the journey to understanding our mental health in a better way. Let’s work on the most important relationship you will ever have and that is the relationship with yourself.
Tired of feeling like something is missing or just not right in life? Tired of living in survival mode? Let’s learn about how that affects the nervous system and causes changes in the brain. Therapy is personalized to meet each clients specific needs for where they are on their path of life. Gaining knowledge of the effects of toxic shame, the ego and how our inner child have an impact on our adult life can also assist in the journey to understanding our mental health in a better way. Let’s work on the most important relationship you will ever have and that is the relationship with yourself.
(815) 591-5034 View (815) 591-5034
Photo of Karin K Leden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Karin K Leden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
Feeling a little overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, and tired, ...? You're not alone. In this day and age we are consumed with incoming information from our environment, but our brains are not equipped with the processing speeds of a computer so we end up feeling overwhelmed and symptomatic. If your goal is to reduce symptoms and find some peace, I can help you to achieve this. I utilize current brain research with evidence-based practices to provide you with knowledge, support and motivation to live a more enjoyable and meaningful life. I am available in person and online to meet your individual needs.
Feeling a little overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, and tired, ...? You're not alone. In this day and age we are consumed with incoming information from our environment, but our brains are not equipped with the processing speeds of a computer so we end up feeling overwhelmed and symptomatic. If your goal is to reduce symptoms and find some peace, I can help you to achieve this. I utilize current brain research with evidence-based practices to provide you with knowledge, support and motivation to live a more enjoyable and meaningful life. I am available in person and online to meet your individual needs.
(779) 223-1901 View (779) 223-1901
Photo of Eric Tanner, Counselor in Rockford, IL
Eric Tanner
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with 10 + years of experience working with individuals with various ages, backgrounds, behaviors, personality types and disabilities. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with 10 + years of experience working with individuals with various ages, backgrounds, behaviors, personality types and disabilities. I enjoy working with children, teens and adults.
(815) 310-3318 View (815) 310-3318
Photo of Karyn Schwitters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Karyn Schwitters, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
I believe in the importance of each individual and in honoring your story, and it is my sole purpose to have clients feel valued and understood, within a trusting, open minded relationship. I operate from a strengths based perspective, offering hope and healing to individuals and families. Testimonial:: "My oldest son and I have worked with Karyn for about three years. She has truly been the light at the end of a very difficult and dark tunnel. Our family will forever be very grateful for her help! Karyn is truly gifted at what she does."
I believe in the importance of each individual and in honoring your story, and it is my sole purpose to have clients feel valued and understood, within a trusting, open minded relationship. I operate from a strengths based perspective, offering hope and healing to individuals and families. Testimonial:: "My oldest son and I have worked with Karyn for about three years. She has truly been the light at the end of a very difficult and dark tunnel. Our family will forever be very grateful for her help! Karyn is truly gifted at what she does."
(779) 223-1788 View (779) 223-1788
Photo of Daniel E Sommer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Daniel E Sommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
(815) 916-4215 View (815) 916-4215
Photo of Linda Nguyen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rockford, IL
Linda Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
My focus and passion is to help individuals, couples, and families reach their greatest potential and reclaim their sense of well-being emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually. I work with individuals to help them overcome and conquer anxiety, depression, loss/grief, chronic stress, relational conflicts, and trauma. I encourage you to come, thrive, and conquer.
My focus and passion is to help individuals, couples, and families reach their greatest potential and reclaim their sense of well-being emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually. I work with individuals to help them overcome and conquer anxiety, depression, loss/grief, chronic stress, relational conflicts, and trauma. I encourage you to come, thrive, and conquer.
(815) 249-4534 View (815) 249-4534
Photo of Frank E. Cushing, Psychologist in Rockford, IL
Frank E. Cushing
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
FOID Mental Health Certification Evaluations. Court Ordered Evaluations/Risk Assessments: Domestic Violence Evaluations. Violence risk & threat assessment 1)Workplace & school violence consultation services 2)Fitness for duty evaluation 3)Psychosexual risk to reoffend. Dr Cushing has considerable training and experience in forensic evaluations and expert witness testimony. Dr. Cushing has worked with prosecutors and defense attorneys in both the state and federal systems. He has been recognized as an expert in courts in the following states: Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and New York.
FOID Mental Health Certification Evaluations. Court Ordered Evaluations/Risk Assessments: Domestic Violence Evaluations. Violence risk & threat assessment 1)Workplace & school violence consultation services 2)Fitness for duty evaluation 3)Psychosexual risk to reoffend. Dr Cushing has considerable training and experience in forensic evaluations and expert witness testimony. Dr. Cushing has worked with prosecutors and defense attorneys in both the state and federal systems. He has been recognized as an expert in courts in the following states: Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and New York.
(779) 228-4297 View (779) 228-4297
Photo of Tavares Arlin Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Tavares Arlin Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in the power of growth, transformation, and unlocking potential, whether that’s mastering your thought life, changing unwanted behaviors, overcoming major setbacks, navigating difficult transitions, dealing with intense stress or emotions, managing anxiety and/or depression, grief or reducing drama and coping with trauma. Becoming the best version of yourself is a worthy goal, and that’s where I can help.
I believe in the power of growth, transformation, and unlocking potential, whether that’s mastering your thought life, changing unwanted behaviors, overcoming major setbacks, navigating difficult transitions, dealing with intense stress or emotions, managing anxiety and/or depression, grief or reducing drama and coping with trauma. Becoming the best version of yourself is a worthy goal, and that’s where I can help.
(815) 889-0943 View (815) 889-0943
Photo of Monica Benton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Monica Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
I believe that life is a journey with moments including lessons, hardships, and celebrations. All can lead us towards personal growth- especially with some help along the way. We are all equipped with the ability to make choices that redefine our lives and, in the process, find peace in the midst of suffering. We are not defined by our weaknesses, strengths, past traumas, choices, or diagnoses. Rather, we are all equipped with the inner strength to change our destiny. Together, we can work together to help achieve your goals so we can live a richer life and learn to play in the rain.
I believe that life is a journey with moments including lessons, hardships, and celebrations. All can lead us towards personal growth- especially with some help along the way. We are all equipped with the ability to make choices that redefine our lives and, in the process, find peace in the midst of suffering. We are not defined by our weaknesses, strengths, past traumas, choices, or diagnoses. Rather, we are all equipped with the inner strength to change our destiny. Together, we can work together to help achieve your goals so we can live a richer life and learn to play in the rain.
(847) 423-6095 View (847) 423-6095
Photo of Dr. J. Scott Nelson, Counselor in Rockford, IL
Dr. J. Scott Nelson
Counselor, EdD, CCMHC, LCPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth, and really good at what I do. I people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral, and relational struggles. I'm here when you need someone to turn to for individual, family, or couples counseling. My areas of expertise include Emotional Struggles, Anxiety & Depression, Couples & Family, Improving Relationships and Communication, Life Transitions, Family of origin issues, Crisis/Trauma, Addictions, Co-dependency, Decision Making, and more.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth, and really good at what I do. I people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral, and relational struggles. I'm here when you need someone to turn to for individual, family, or couples counseling. My areas of expertise include Emotional Struggles, Anxiety & Depression, Couples & Family, Improving Relationships and Communication, Life Transitions, Family of origin issues, Crisis/Trauma, Addictions, Co-dependency, Decision Making, and more.
(815) 916-9970 View (815) 916-9970
Photo of Cydney Oakes, Counselor in Rockford, IL
Cydney Oakes
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
I am fascinated with the mind and empowering our sense of purpose to fulfill relationships and experiences. Our life experiences can be a rollercoaster of emotions that throw us into a whirlwind of conflict. I want to guide you through these challenging experiences to help you heal and grow. My experience comes from working in various settings such as inpatient, various mental illnesses, and residential facilities. I hope to help deepen your understanding of yourself with different techniques and therapeutic tools.
I am fascinated with the mind and empowering our sense of purpose to fulfill relationships and experiences. Our life experiences can be a rollercoaster of emotions that throw us into a whirlwind of conflict. I want to guide you through these challenging experiences to help you heal and grow. My experience comes from working in various settings such as inpatient, various mental illnesses, and residential facilities. I hope to help deepen your understanding of yourself with different techniques and therapeutic tools.
(815) 473-8640 View (815) 473-8640
Photo of Angie Tompkins, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Rockford, IL
Angie Tompkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
My passion lies in working with children, teenagers, adolescents, and young adults. I help clients who deal with trauma, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors.
My passion lies in working with children, teenagers, adolescents, and young adults. I help clients who deal with trauma, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and self-harming behaviors.
(815) 515-6540 View (815) 515-6540
Photo of Brian David Klaung, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Brian David Klaung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has 26 years of private practice experience. Specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autistic Spectrum Disorders and relational issues. Providing individual, family and couple counseling. Age range is 5 years of age to seasoned older Adults. Practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Life Coaching and Rational Emotive Therapy. Extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD, providing treatment strategies for adults, children and adolescents. Extensive experienced in improving communication and problem solving skills.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has 26 years of private practice experience. Specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autistic Spectrum Disorders and relational issues. Providing individual, family and couple counseling. Age range is 5 years of age to seasoned older Adults. Practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Life Coaching and Rational Emotive Therapy. Extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD, providing treatment strategies for adults, children and adolescents. Extensive experienced in improving communication and problem solving skills.
(815) 649-5343 x204 View (815) 649-5343 x204
Photo of Adam Figlewicz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockford, IL
Adam Figlewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
The need to adapt, to learn, and grow can often be a difficult one, but I am here to be able to help guide your journey to rediscovering the best you. Your therapy will be shaped to you, as a unique individual, and you will have the opportunity to share in a space that is open with empathy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard. Here, we can learn about ourselves, where our fears and stressors lie, build our self-esteem and communication, and overcome the barriers that have shifted us away from the center of our own universes.
The need to adapt, to learn, and grow can often be a difficult one, but I am here to be able to help guide your journey to rediscovering the best you. Your therapy will be shaped to you, as a unique individual, and you will have the opportunity to share in a space that is open with empathy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard. Here, we can learn about ourselves, where our fears and stressors lie, build our self-esteem and communication, and overcome the barriers that have shifted us away from the center of our own universes.
(779) 204-7865 View (779) 204-7865
Photo of Julie Rylatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Julie Rylatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EAP-s
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
Children/ teens and their parents are experiencing anxiety at an all time high level. We have developed a new program that treats both parties with a structured and successful approach. We will teach your children about their anxiety, why it occurs, how they can manage it and how they can succeed at home and school. The parents are taught how to manage their child's anxiety and not inadvertently reinforce it. Many parents feel helpless as they watch their child become more and more anxious, let us help you learn how to not only manage the anxiety, but help your family thrive in these difficult times.
Children/ teens and their parents are experiencing anxiety at an all time high level. We have developed a new program that treats both parties with a structured and successful approach. We will teach your children about their anxiety, why it occurs, how they can manage it and how they can succeed at home and school. The parents are taught how to manage their child's anxiety and not inadvertently reinforce it. Many parents feel helpless as they watch their child become more and more anxious, let us help you learn how to not only manage the anxiety, but help your family thrive in these difficult times.
(779) 939-0061 View (779) 939-0061
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, Psychologist in Rockford, IL
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(331) 702-9296 View (331) 702-9296
Photo of Todd Burd, Counselor in Rockford, IL
Todd Burd
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
Todd uses therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which help his clients connect the emotional dots and live life with fewer regrets. Most of our feelings and actions are based upon our thinking patterns and experience filters. Identifying distortions in these thoughts and replacing them with healthier alternatives has been the cornerstone of his clients' success. He specializes in discovering client insight enabling men, women, and adolescent boys navigate through life's many situations and relationships.
Todd uses therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which help his clients connect the emotional dots and live life with fewer regrets. Most of our feelings and actions are based upon our thinking patterns and experience filters. Identifying distortions in these thoughts and replacing them with healthier alternatives has been the cornerstone of his clients' success. He specializes in discovering client insight enabling men, women, and adolescent boys navigate through life's many situations and relationships.
(779) 707-0091 View (779) 707-0091
Photo of Nicole Ileen Didier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockford, IL
Nicole Ileen Didier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
Waitlist for new clients
I have passion and experience working alongside youth, adults, and couples in navigating their overall mental health! Whether it's helping clients with depression decipher where their lack or misplaced motivation is coming from, finding ways to calm any level of anxiety (i.e. daily lingering anxiety to extreme levels where it feels crippling) that impacts a person on a daily life, understanding the levels of bi-polar and how to work with them, navigating familial issues such as divorce (teenage or adult children and parents), among other concerns!
I have passion and experience working alongside youth, adults, and couples in navigating their overall mental health! Whether it's helping clients with depression decipher where their lack or misplaced motivation is coming from, finding ways to calm any level of anxiety (i.e. daily lingering anxiety to extreme levels where it feels crippling) that impacts a person on a daily life, understanding the levels of bi-polar and how to work with them, navigating familial issues such as divorce (teenage or adult children and parents), among other concerns!
(815) 396-6810 View (815) 396-6810

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Rockford, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$144

Therapists in Rockford, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
79% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Coping Skills
65% Relationship Issues
64% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% Aetna

How Therapists in Rockford, IL see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Rockford?

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.