Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

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Photo of Marci Morrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Marci Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, C-SSWS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050
Marci Morrison, LCSW, ACSW, Diplomate, C-SSWS was a School Social Worker for 35 years and a crisis intervention specialist prior to working in schools. Marci specializes in children, adolescents, young adults and effective parenting skills for parents of children and adolescents. If your child has concerns in school, not only does Marci have an extensive background with child/adolescent behavior but also can help advocate for your child in the school system to help your child reach their highest potential. Marci began Positive Mind Therapy, LLC in 2018 and values a professional, personal touch with each client and their family.
Marci Morrison, LCSW, ACSW, Diplomate, C-SSWS was a School Social Worker for 35 years and a crisis intervention specialist prior to working in schools. Marci specializes in children, adolescents, young adults and effective parenting skills for parents of children and adolescents. If your child has concerns in school, not only does Marci have an extensive background with child/adolescent behavior but also can help advocate for your child in the school system to help your child reach their highest potential. Marci began Positive Mind Therapy, LLC in 2018 and values a professional, personal touch with each client and their family.
(480) 566-9246 View (480) 566-9246
Photo of Menaj Shamsaee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Menaj Shamsaee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
Imagine being stressed about a test. Your heart is racing, your breathing quickens… And now imagine having that feeling constantly — 24/7 for no reason and every reason at the same time, or it’s that bad feeling you get in the pit of your stomach when something bad is going to happen. Except it’s all the time, and you never find out what the bad thing that’s going to happen is. It’s like the walls are closing in and you have no means of escape.
Imagine being stressed about a test. Your heart is racing, your breathing quickens… And now imagine having that feeling constantly — 24/7 for no reason and every reason at the same time, or it’s that bad feeling you get in the pit of your stomach when something bad is going to happen. Except it’s all the time, and you never find out what the bad thing that’s going to happen is. It’s like the walls are closing in and you have no means of escape.
(480) 405-7167 View (480) 405-7167
Photo of Chris Kraemer, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Chris Kraemer
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LISAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
***NOW OFFERING ONLINE COUNSELING***Do you ever feel stuck? Stuck in your relationships or stuck in your thoughts. You feel like no matter what I’ll never be good enough. You feel alone, frustrated and not understood. Do you wish you had a “start over” button? You struggle with the “should” and “if only” this or that would have happened. Do you feel disconnected from the people that you care about? Have you started using substances or behaviors in unhealthy ways to cope with things that have just not gone according to plan? Do you ever think about the future and feel hopeless not hopeful.
***NOW OFFERING ONLINE COUNSELING***Do you ever feel stuck? Stuck in your relationships or stuck in your thoughts. You feel like no matter what I’ll never be good enough. You feel alone, frustrated and not understood. Do you wish you had a “start over” button? You struggle with the “should” and “if only” this or that would have happened. Do you feel disconnected from the people that you care about? Have you started using substances or behaviors in unhealthy ways to cope with things that have just not gone according to plan? Do you ever think about the future and feel hopeless not hopeful.
(623) 748-0995 View (623) 748-0995
Photo of Lisa Menard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Lisa Menard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
Welcome and congratulations on starting your journey! If you are struggling with thoughts, feelings, or behaviors in this moment and suspect they may be a result of things that happened in your past, you have come to the right place. I am here to create a safe and supportive environment to help you break the chains of your past trauma so you can begin engaging in life in a way that aligns with your goals and intentions.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your journey! If you are struggling with thoughts, feelings, or behaviors in this moment and suspect they may be a result of things that happened in your past, you have come to the right place. I am here to create a safe and supportive environment to help you break the chains of your past trauma so you can begin engaging in life in a way that aligns with your goals and intentions.
(602) 755-4172 View (602) 755-4172
Photo of Elliot Talenfeld, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Elliot Talenfeld
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85007
“Every genuinely loving relationship is one of mutual psychotherapy.” So wrote M. Scott Peck in "The Road Less Traveled." I knew Scotty, and he included our 10-yr. correspondence in his final papers. I now teach couples how to become their OWN mutual therapists. Most of us have scars from our childhood or past relationships that deter us from opening our hearts even to those we claim to love. Many couples thus enter into a tacit agreement not to rock the relational boat. But I see relational tension as a thrust for both personal authenticity AND intimacy. A blessing, not a curse, it is the very coin of the mutual-therapeutic realm.
“Every genuinely loving relationship is one of mutual psychotherapy.” So wrote M. Scott Peck in "The Road Less Traveled." I knew Scotty, and he included our 10-yr. correspondence in his final papers. I now teach couples how to become their OWN mutual therapists. Most of us have scars from our childhood or past relationships that deter us from opening our hearts even to those we claim to love. Many couples thus enter into a tacit agreement not to rock the relational boat. But I see relational tension as a thrust for both personal authenticity AND intimacy. A blessing, not a curse, it is the very coin of the mutual-therapeutic realm.
(480) 680-9479 View (480) 680-9479
Cynthia Lowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Arizona. I have over 25 years of years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced emotional abuse as well as physical and sexual trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Arizona. I have over 25 years of years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced emotional abuse as well as physical and sexual trauma.
(623) 343-9843 View (623) 343-9843
Photo of Gerda Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Gerda Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Successful yet ANXIOUS, SAD, LONELY? What is my PURPOSE? Feel like you are Not GOOD ENOUGH? You are PROFESSIONAL yet having feelings of Imposter Syndrome where you doubt your abilities and feel like a fraud? Do you often replay past mistakes in your mind over and over again? Feeling OVERWHELMED? How might your life be different in 6 months from now if you scheduled an appointment today? If you don't make any changes, how might your life look like in 1 year from now? What is Brainspotting and EMDR? Does it really work? Your mind can HEAL from psychological trauma.
Successful yet ANXIOUS, SAD, LONELY? What is my PURPOSE? Feel like you are Not GOOD ENOUGH? You are PROFESSIONAL yet having feelings of Imposter Syndrome where you doubt your abilities and feel like a fraud? Do you often replay past mistakes in your mind over and over again? Feeling OVERWHELMED? How might your life be different in 6 months from now if you scheduled an appointment today? If you don't make any changes, how might your life look like in 1 year from now? What is Brainspotting and EMDR? Does it really work? Your mind can HEAL from psychological trauma.
(602) 362-6816 View (602) 362-6816
Photo of Maria C Avena, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Maria C Avena
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Saturday appointments available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts of Professional Counseling from Ottawa University. I have a concentration on Trauma Abuse and Depravation, EMDR certified, 12 years of experience in the counseling field working in the following areas; anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, sexual, physical and mental abuse, attachment issues, self-esteem issues, shame, anger management, relationships issues, alcohol and substance abuse, addictive behaviors, life transitions, grief and loss and domestic violence.
Saturday appointments available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts of Professional Counseling from Ottawa University. I have a concentration on Trauma Abuse and Depravation, EMDR certified, 12 years of experience in the counseling field working in the following areas; anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, sexual, physical and mental abuse, attachment issues, self-esteem issues, shame, anger management, relationships issues, alcohol and substance abuse, addictive behaviors, life transitions, grief and loss and domestic violence.
(602) 833-7246 View (602) 833-7246
Photo of Jennifer McCombs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Jennifer McCombs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
I am a LCSW providing virtual therapy in AZ, CA and NV. In my work, I believe that the true health and freedom we crave present themselves when we align body, mind and soul and return to the instinctual, intuitive wisdom that exists within us to guide us on our life journey. Through returning to ourselves and the sense of safety, security and love that come with feeling safe and at home in our bodies, we are able to open to life and live fully. Working with me requires a willingness to do hard, deep, but gentle, work.
I am a LCSW providing virtual therapy in AZ, CA and NV. In my work, I believe that the true health and freedom we crave present themselves when we align body, mind and soul and return to the instinctual, intuitive wisdom that exists within us to guide us on our life journey. Through returning to ourselves and the sense of safety, security and love that come with feeling safe and at home in our bodies, we are able to open to life and live fully. Working with me requires a willingness to do hard, deep, but gentle, work.
(480) 418-4718 View (480) 418-4718
Photo of Kevyn Holloway, Pastoral Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Kevyn Holloway
Pastoral Counselor
Not Verified Not Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Get the support you need today! I am here to help you navigate the journey of life and to find you​r way in the world. To obtain the necessary tools to look at the brighter picture instead of focusing on the negativity at hand. To learn how to truly listen to those around you so that you can become the best version of yourself.
Get the support you need today! I am here to help you navigate the journey of life and to find you​r way in the world. To obtain the necessary tools to look at the brighter picture instead of focusing on the negativity at hand. To learn how to truly listen to those around you so that you can become the best version of yourself.
(623) 303-9857 View (623) 303-9857
Jessica Mormann
CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(480) 608-9473 View (480) 608-9473
Photo of Linda Wiskerchen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Linda Wiskerchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
My name is Linda Wiskerchen. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor with 20+ years experience and passion working in the mental health field. I specialize in the treatment of families and young children who are struggling at home, in school, and in the community, with individual and family counseling.
My name is Linda Wiskerchen. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor with 20+ years experience and passion working in the mental health field. I specialize in the treatment of families and young children who are struggling at home, in school, and in the community, with individual and family counseling.
(480) 467-3380 View (480) 467-3380
Photo of Katy Obert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Katy Obert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85013  (Online Only)
I am an independently licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my bachelors in Psychology at The University of Arizona, and my masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Arizona State University. I have worked with a wide range of patient populations including children ages 5 - 17, families, adults ages 18 - 74 and couples. I have worked in community behavioral health for over 5 years, and have training in trauma, systems theory, victims of sexual abuse, anxiety and disruptive child behaviors.
I am an independently licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my bachelors in Psychology at The University of Arizona, and my masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Arizona State University. I have worked with a wide range of patient populations including children ages 5 - 17, families, adults ages 18 - 74 and couples. I have worked in community behavioral health for over 5 years, and have training in trauma, systems theory, victims of sexual abuse, anxiety and disruptive child behaviors.
(602) 878-3145 View (602) 878-3145
Photo of Linda Schwartz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Linda Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014  (Online Only)
My work is exclusively as a couples therapist using the most-effective approach, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, or EFT. I believe there's a distinct difference between a marriage-counseling specialist and a therapist who "also" works with couples. This singular focus enables me to bring to my couples work years of experience and a depth of practice helping couples resolve a complexity of challenges, including infidelity, sexual disconnection, endless arguing and differences related to parenting and finances. EFT is both gentle and effective; neither partner is favored or judged. A brief model, EFT offers lasting results.
My work is exclusively as a couples therapist using the most-effective approach, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, or EFT. I believe there's a distinct difference between a marriage-counseling specialist and a therapist who "also" works with couples. This singular focus enables me to bring to my couples work years of experience and a depth of practice helping couples resolve a complexity of challenges, including infidelity, sexual disconnection, endless arguing and differences related to parenting and finances. EFT is both gentle and effective; neither partner is favored or judged. A brief model, EFT offers lasting results.
(480) 568-2770 View (480) 568-2770
Photo of Dale F Hansen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Dale F Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85021
as a retired Colonel in the US Army I prefer structure. I have also recently retired as an FBI Chaplain so the spiritual side is important. I continue to teach marriage and family therapy at the university level. I am looking for clients that want to bring clarity in communication into their marriage using a family systems perspective and is willing to move from controlling to managing their relationships..
as a retired Colonel in the US Army I prefer structure. I have also recently retired as an FBI Chaplain so the spiritual side is important. I continue to teach marriage and family therapy at the university level. I am looking for clients that want to bring clarity in communication into their marriage using a family systems perspective and is willing to move from controlling to managing their relationships..
(602) 483-6374 View (602) 483-6374
Photo of Pamela Sterling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Pamela Sterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the COVID, or not able to concentrate and wanting to gain control of your life again? You are not alone. Life can be extremely difficult to navigate at times, especially when going through major life transitions and trauma such as the COVID. These things can greatly impact our wellbeing, especially if we do not have the proper tools to work through them. It can seem impossible to deal with these life stressors and escape from the overwhelming feelings that accompany them such as depression, trauma, panic attacks and anxiety.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the COVID, or not able to concentrate and wanting to gain control of your life again? You are not alone. Life can be extremely difficult to navigate at times, especially when going through major life transitions and trauma such as the COVID. These things can greatly impact our wellbeing, especially if we do not have the proper tools to work through them. It can seem impossible to deal with these life stressors and escape from the overwhelming feelings that accompany them such as depression, trauma, panic attacks and anxiety.
(623) 343-3241 View (623) 343-3241
Photo of Lisa Ruelas, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Lisa Ruelas
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
(623) 303-4803 View (623) 303-4803
Photo of Susan Kinkel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Susan Kinkel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Accepting New Client and Immediate Availability on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. Are you someone who at times feels like there’s not much hope in finding healing, or a way forward? You can see the barriers and wish you could move them, but feel like it’s overwhelming, or impossible. Maybe now is the right time to start your journey towards healing. If you feel ready to dip your toe into starting the journey, but need some guidance, and support, I am here to assist.
Accepting New Client and Immediate Availability on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. Are you someone who at times feels like there’s not much hope in finding healing, or a way forward? You can see the barriers and wish you could move them, but feel like it’s overwhelming, or impossible. Maybe now is the right time to start your journey towards healing. If you feel ready to dip your toe into starting the journey, but need some guidance, and support, I am here to assist.
(623) 300-1014 View (623) 300-1014
Photo of Heartful Solutions for Families, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Heartful Solutions for Families
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Waitlist for new clients
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
(602) 529-3972 View (602) 529-3972
Photo of Holly Inman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Holly Inman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85022
It can be a difficult choice to visit a counselor. I appreciate the work it takes to get there. Through CBT, EMDR or other methods, my goal is to help the unique individual client sitting with me find their pathway to healing. My hope for each of my clients is to create a safe environment for whatever it is you need to explore, understand and heal. I would consider it a deep honor to take your journey with you. I offer telehealth options always, and in person as needed.
It can be a difficult choice to visit a counselor. I appreciate the work it takes to get there. Through CBT, EMDR or other methods, my goal is to help the unique individual client sitting with me find their pathway to healing. My hope for each of my clients is to create a safe environment for whatever it is you need to explore, understand and heal. I would consider it a deep honor to take your journey with you. I offer telehealth options always, and in person as needed.
(602) 428-9375 View (602) 428-9375

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Phoenix?

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.