Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Giselle Chiasson Saia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Giselle Chiasson Saia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
I am a Licensed Professional Christian Counselor (LPC) specializing in relational and developmental trauma recovery, PTSD/childhood abuse recovery, healing the child within and family of origin healing. I use a story informed trauma treatment model (SITT) . I practice from a "wounded healer" perspective as I have my own testimony of childhood abuse recovery, divorce recovery and remarriage/blended family. I consider it an honor to walk alongside my adolescent through adult clients as He turns broken into beautiful, messes into messages and trials into triumphs. "His plans are to give you HOPE and a FUTURE." Jer 29:11 #doodlelover
I am a Licensed Professional Christian Counselor (LPC) specializing in relational and developmental trauma recovery, PTSD/childhood abuse recovery, healing the child within and family of origin healing. I use a story informed trauma treatment model (SITT) . I practice from a "wounded healer" perspective as I have my own testimony of childhood abuse recovery, divorce recovery and remarriage/blended family. I consider it an honor to walk alongside my adolescent through adult clients as He turns broken into beautiful, messes into messages and trials into triumphs. "His plans are to give you HOPE and a FUTURE." Jer 29:11 #doodlelover
(985) 243-1518 View (985) 243-1518
Photo of Arkeria Robertson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Arkeria Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Accepting new clients virtually in states of Texas and New Jersey! Sometimes life can be stressful and you can get anxious. You may forget the necessary skills to care for yourself. That is where I can help. One of the hardest things for most people is to express their feelings to a stranger. Thinking about opening up to a therapist may be a little overwhelming at first. It takes a lot of bravery to open up to a stranger and allow them the opportunity to learn your inner thoughts. However, through the process of therapy, I can help you minimize your stress and anxiety, realize your strengths, and reach your personal goals.
Accepting new clients virtually in states of Texas and New Jersey! Sometimes life can be stressful and you can get anxious. You may forget the necessary skills to care for yourself. That is where I can help. One of the hardest things for most people is to express their feelings to a stranger. Thinking about opening up to a therapist may be a little overwhelming at first. It takes a lot of bravery to open up to a stranger and allow them the opportunity to learn your inner thoughts. However, through the process of therapy, I can help you minimize your stress and anxiety, realize your strengths, and reach your personal goals.
(225) 341-7070 View (225) 341-7070
Photo of Joshua D Hinkel, Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Joshua D Hinkel
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
My areas of focus include trauma & PTSD, borderline personality, and couples struggling with ineffective communication and conflict resolution due to trauma. I also work with men on social skills, dating, anxiety, and feeling lost as they navigate the unique challenges of our current day and age. I'm passionate about helping individuals understand how past traumatic experiences are influencing their current thoughts and behaviors; I believe your experiences and problems are unique, and I would love to be part of your therapeutic journey.
My areas of focus include trauma & PTSD, borderline personality, and couples struggling with ineffective communication and conflict resolution due to trauma. I also work with men on social skills, dating, anxiety, and feeling lost as they navigate the unique challenges of our current day and age. I'm passionate about helping individuals understand how past traumatic experiences are influencing their current thoughts and behaviors; I believe your experiences and problems are unique, and I would love to be part of your therapeutic journey.
(225) 396-4968 View (225) 396-4968
Photo of Kristy Dandridge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Kristy Dandridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC - S, NCC, LPCT, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Counseling is not just an educational endeavor for me, it is my true life’s passion. As my primary spiritual/natural gift, my purpose on earth is to utilize my counseling skills to serve others in any capacity that I can. We have all felt sad, angry, lonely, misunderstood, unforgiven, misused, abused, fed up, and so on and so forth. Our goal in therapy would be to examine your emotional well being and how it impacts your life. While you process through everything from past trauma to current conflicts, it is significant to know that your growth and healing is what is most important to me.
Counseling is not just an educational endeavor for me, it is my true life’s passion. As my primary spiritual/natural gift, my purpose on earth is to utilize my counseling skills to serve others in any capacity that I can. We have all felt sad, angry, lonely, misunderstood, unforgiven, misused, abused, fed up, and so on and so forth. Our goal in therapy would be to examine your emotional well being and how it impacts your life. While you process through everything from past trauma to current conflicts, it is significant to know that your growth and healing is what is most important to me.
(225) 330-7203 View (225) 330-7203
Photo of Latrina Ray Raddler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Latrina Ray Raddler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810  (Online Only)
Navigating the intricacies of relationships requires a tailored and comprehensive approach, and I am here to guide you through every layer of your unique journey. My expertise encompasses a diverse range of complex relationships, including intimate partners, addictions, food-related issues, toxic partnerships, mental health challenges, and more. Embracing a whole-person approach, I delve into the heart of presenting issues to provide nuanced solutions. My focus extends to the college-aged population and beyond, addressing the complexities of life transitions with empathy and understanding.
Navigating the intricacies of relationships requires a tailored and comprehensive approach, and I am here to guide you through every layer of your unique journey. My expertise encompasses a diverse range of complex relationships, including intimate partners, addictions, food-related issues, toxic partnerships, mental health challenges, and more. Embracing a whole-person approach, I delve into the heart of presenting issues to provide nuanced solutions. My focus extends to the college-aged population and beyond, addressing the complexities of life transitions with empathy and understanding.
(225) 535-8503 View (225) 535-8503
Photo of Franziska NoackLeSage, Psychologist in Baton Rouge, LA
Franziska NoackLeSage
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Is your child or teen struggling emotionally, behaviorally, socially, or academically? Despite everything you tried to help, progress has fallen short and the situation may have even worsened? You need answers, reasons for why this is so difficult, and you know this is something you cannot do alone. Through individualized, evidence-based assessment and treatment, we will create a plan for positive change that works for your family. If teachers, pediatricians, or other service providers are an essential component, I will do my best to establish a collaboration so we can find answers to your questions.
Is your child or teen struggling emotionally, behaviorally, socially, or academically? Despite everything you tried to help, progress has fallen short and the situation may have even worsened? You need answers, reasons for why this is so difficult, and you know this is something you cannot do alone. Through individualized, evidence-based assessment and treatment, we will create a plan for positive change that works for your family. If teachers, pediatricians, or other service providers are an essential component, I will do my best to establish a collaboration so we can find answers to your questions.
(225) 267-8953 View (225) 267-8953
Photo of Dr. Edris F. Lodge, Pastoral Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Dr. Edris F. Lodge
Pastoral Counselor, PsyD , LPCT, MACC, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
You are never too young or too old to encounter challenges. Are you ready for change? It's time to take your life back! I work with Adults, Adolescents, Families and Couples to help overcome life situations, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship and practical challenges.
You are never too young or too old to encounter challenges. Are you ready for change? It's time to take your life back! I work with Adults, Adolescents, Families and Couples to help overcome life situations, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship and practical challenges.
(225) 627-7943 View (225) 627-7943
Photo of Patti P Dowling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Patti P Dowling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and virtual counselor in Louisiana. I have been in practice over 17 years working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults. I believe we all deserve a little help sometimes, and that’s what led you here. If you’re feeling like your life has become unmanageable in certain areas and you're ready for a reset, you have come to the right place.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and virtual counselor in Louisiana. I have been in practice over 17 years working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults. I believe we all deserve a little help sometimes, and that’s what led you here. If you’re feeling like your life has become unmanageable in certain areas and you're ready for a reset, you have come to the right place.
(225) 681-9058 View (225) 681-9058
Photo of Tamyra Bourgeois, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Tamyra Bourgeois
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I am a licensed professional counselor and my motto is "I'm in the business of self-acceptance more than the business of self-improvement." I hold to the tenant that when we shoot for and achieve self-acceptance it is then that self trust, self love and self confidence organically emerge. We achieve these goals through a series of gentle conversations that lead to remarkable self discoveries.
I am a licensed professional counselor and my motto is "I'm in the business of self-acceptance more than the business of self-improvement." I hold to the tenant that when we shoot for and achieve self-acceptance it is then that self trust, self love and self confidence organically emerge. We achieve these goals through a series of gentle conversations that lead to remarkable self discoveries.
(225) 230-2596 View (225) 230-2596
Photo of Lindsey Schexnayder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Lindsey Schexnayder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I am a counselor with Genesis/Holistic Solutions Center in Baton Rouge, LA. I am dedicated to assisting clients in goal development using evidenced-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) in the therapeutic process. My goal is to make every client feel understood and heard while providing a safe space for positive change.
I am a counselor with Genesis/Holistic Solutions Center in Baton Rouge, LA. I am dedicated to assisting clients in goal development using evidenced-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) in the therapeutic process. My goal is to make every client feel understood and heard while providing a safe space for positive change.
(225) 523-2485 View (225) 523-2485
Photo of Dr. Catherine P. Perry in Baton Rouge, LA
Dr. Catherine P. Perry
MEd, DD, CHT
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
You are aware that thoughts create things. You are very familiar with and love Universal Law of Attraction -based Transformation Skills. You are excited and committed to investing in your growth and increasing your Manifesting Skills. I AM the COACH who facilitates powerful mastermind sessions that generate the Clarity, the Vision, and the Energetic Frequencies that Align you with your HEART’S desires. Get results you absolutely LOVE! Health, Wealth, Success, Happiness, and So Much Fun!
You are aware that thoughts create things. You are very familiar with and love Universal Law of Attraction -based Transformation Skills. You are excited and committed to investing in your growth and increasing your Manifesting Skills. I AM the COACH who facilitates powerful mastermind sessions that generate the Clarity, the Vision, and the Energetic Frequencies that Align you with your HEART’S desires. Get results you absolutely LOVE! Health, Wealth, Success, Happiness, and So Much Fun!
(225) 351-6719 View (225) 351-6719
John Otzenberger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
John Otzenberger, Psy. D. is a licensed clinical psychologist with almost 30 years of experience working with a variety of populations, including children (ages 10 and older), adolescents and adults. Most recently, Dr. Otzenberger served as the Director of Mental Health Services at the LSU Student Health Center, overseeing a team of clinicians that provides psychological care for more than 32,000 students. As a trained Adlerian psychologist, Dr. Otzenberger’s goal is to help clients develop a sense of social connection through the positive development of relationships within family, school, work, and community.
John Otzenberger, Psy. D. is a licensed clinical psychologist with almost 30 years of experience working with a variety of populations, including children (ages 10 and older), adolescents and adults. Most recently, Dr. Otzenberger served as the Director of Mental Health Services at the LSU Student Health Center, overseeing a team of clinicians that provides psychological care for more than 32,000 students. As a trained Adlerian psychologist, Dr. Otzenberger’s goal is to help clients develop a sense of social connection through the positive development of relationships within family, school, work, and community.
(225) 269-5324 View (225) 269-5324
Photo of Katherine Tebo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Katherine Tebo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Hi! I’m Katie, and I’m excited to be with you on your journey to wellness. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional-II, I view the therapeutic process as one in which you and I tackle the obstacles standing in the way to peace, happiness, and fulfillment. Practicing from a strengths-based perspective and cognitive-behavioral approach, I have been in the field since 2008 and have worked with the lifespan (ages 2-75) in various settings. I believe that YOU are worthy of dignity, love, and belonging. Let’s begin the healing process today.
Hi! I’m Katie, and I’m excited to be with you on your journey to wellness. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional-II, I view the therapeutic process as one in which you and I tackle the obstacles standing in the way to peace, happiness, and fulfillment. Practicing from a strengths-based perspective and cognitive-behavioral approach, I have been in the field since 2008 and have worked with the lifespan (ages 2-75) in various settings. I believe that YOU are worthy of dignity, love, and belonging. Let’s begin the healing process today.
(225) 267-8134 View (225) 267-8134
Photo of Claire Leerkes Worsham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Claire Leerkes Worsham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings & wish you could get more out of life? If you want to explore the challenges getting in your way, I offer a guided approach that helps you go from problem focused to solution focused. I feel a strengths-based & solution-focused approach like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is most effective when trying to achieve physical/mental health goals. It can move you towards personal growth quickly and help you identify the problematic thinking that stops you from being a happy person, worker, spouse, parents, or child. When you change your thinking to better serve you, everything works.
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings & wish you could get more out of life? If you want to explore the challenges getting in your way, I offer a guided approach that helps you go from problem focused to solution focused. I feel a strengths-based & solution-focused approach like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is most effective when trying to achieve physical/mental health goals. It can move you towards personal growth quickly and help you identify the problematic thinking that stops you from being a happy person, worker, spouse, parents, or child. When you change your thinking to better serve you, everything works.
(225) 269-5798 View (225) 269-5798
Photo of Jake J Guidry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Jake J Guidry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
My practice offers individual, family, and couples therapy to adult and young adult clients. This is a safe, nonjudgmental, and inclusive space for clients of all racial, ethnic, cultural, religious, sexual, and economic backgrounds. I treat a variety of presenting issues including couples/marriage concerns, infidelity, trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, addictive disorders, life and role transitions, parenting, and grief/loss. Couples will benefit from an approach grounded in Gottman Method (Level-2) with additional training in treatment of trauma and infidelity. Thank you in advance for trusting me with your care.
My practice offers individual, family, and couples therapy to adult and young adult clients. This is a safe, nonjudgmental, and inclusive space for clients of all racial, ethnic, cultural, religious, sexual, and economic backgrounds. I treat a variety of presenting issues including couples/marriage concerns, infidelity, trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, addictive disorders, life and role transitions, parenting, and grief/loss. Couples will benefit from an approach grounded in Gottman Method (Level-2) with additional training in treatment of trauma and infidelity. Thank you in advance for trusting me with your care.
(225) 831-8191 View (225) 831-8191
Photo of James Charles Smith, Psychologist in Baton Rouge, LA
James Charles Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70825
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of learning difficulties, including those caused by AD/HD. My approach to academic difficulties goes beyond the limited information contained in a diagnosis. I identify the specific causes of learning problems that can be targeted with academic therapy or accommodations in the classroom. I provide detailed interventions and recommendations that target specific cognitive processes (e.g., working memory, processing speed, planning, organization, etc.), higher level language and comprehension skills, and basic academic skills required for efficient learning. I use the latest research on individual differences to tailor interventions.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of learning difficulties, including those caused by AD/HD. My approach to academic difficulties goes beyond the limited information contained in a diagnosis. I identify the specific causes of learning problems that can be targeted with academic therapy or accommodations in the classroom. I provide detailed interventions and recommendations that target specific cognitive processes (e.g., working memory, processing speed, planning, organization, etc.), higher level language and comprehension skills, and basic academic skills required for efficient learning. I use the latest research on individual differences to tailor interventions.
(225) 800-4197 View (225) 800-4197
Photo of Arthur Williams III, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Arthur Williams III
Licensed Professional Counselor, BSW, MSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810  (Online Only)
The easiest way to reach me is through email. At Excalibur Counseling, I will work with you to get you to the place where you function best.
The easiest way to reach me is through email. At Excalibur Counseling, I will work with you to get you to the place where you function best.
(225) 425-3965 View (225) 425-3965
Photo of Shea D'Amico, Licensed Professional Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Shea D'Amico
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Hey there! My name is Shea D’Amico and I firmly believe counseling can empower you for the better and would love to help you navigate your journey. I approach counseling from a compassionate, understanding, and patient standpoint as it is very important to me that you feel understood and heard in a safe and trusting environment.
Hey there! My name is Shea D’Amico and I firmly believe counseling can empower you for the better and would love to help you navigate your journey. I approach counseling from a compassionate, understanding, and patient standpoint as it is very important to me that you feel understood and heard in a safe and trusting environment.
(225) 396-3458 View (225) 396-3458
Photo of Cammie Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baton Rouge, LA
Cammie Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Over the past decade, I have served in various roles, including child protection specialist for the state and a licensed social worker within the education system. My expertise extends to navigating Bulletin 1508, 504 plans, and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Specializing in supporting children, adolescents, and families, I address challenges such as learning disabilities, ADHD, anger outbursts, depression, relationship issues, academic concerns, and anxiety.
Over the past decade, I have served in various roles, including child protection specialist for the state and a licensed social worker within the education system. My expertise extends to navigating Bulletin 1508, 504 plans, and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Specializing in supporting children, adolescents, and families, I address challenges such as learning disabilities, ADHD, anger outbursts, depression, relationship issues, academic concerns, and anxiety.
(225) 452-8273 View (225) 452-8273
Photo of Robin Toler and Associates, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Baton Rouge, LA
Robin Toler and Associates
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ATR-BC, LAC, AIT-C
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70815
Are you sick and tired of being stuck and feeling pained because of trauma and past painful experiences? Are you not sure about your life story and what it really means to be you? Do you feel slighted, and minimized by others? Do you have few people who really understand where you are coming from? Trauma can bring and keep individuals down sometimes with and even without provocation. If you have not been helped by talk therapy then art therapy coupled with Advanced Integrative Therapy and/or addiction counseling may put you on the fast track to recovery.
Are you sick and tired of being stuck and feeling pained because of trauma and past painful experiences? Are you not sure about your life story and what it really means to be you? Do you feel slighted, and minimized by others? Do you have few people who really understand where you are coming from? Trauma can bring and keep individuals down sometimes with and even without provocation. If you have not been helped by talk therapy then art therapy coupled with Advanced Integrative Therapy and/or addiction counseling may put you on the fast track to recovery.
(225) 399-4192 View (225) 399-4192

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

500+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Coping Skills
76% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
73% Stress
66% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
66% Aetna

How Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Baton Rouge?

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.