Therapists in Central Business District, Mobile, AL

Photo of Tracy Renee Gibson - Renewed Life Counseling LLC, Alc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Renewed Life Counseling LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, Alc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
As a mental health professional I like to take a person centered approach to my clients. As a clinician I feel as though you have to meet people where they are. Not one individual is just like another individual, we are all very unique and so are our needs. I approach each client as if he or she is a blank slate. The only expert to a clients needs is that client. I never approach a client with any all or nothing or black and white thinking. My goal as a clinician is to help each client get to reach his or her fullest potential. The ultimate goal while working with clients is guiding them to reach their greatest potential.
As a mental health professional I like to take a person centered approach to my clients. As a clinician I feel as though you have to meet people where they are. Not one individual is just like another individual, we are all very unique and so are our needs. I approach each client as if he or she is a blank slate. The only expert to a clients needs is that client. I never approach a client with any all or nothing or black and white thinking. My goal as a clinician is to help each client get to reach his or her fullest potential. The ultimate goal while working with clients is guiding them to reach their greatest potential.
(251) 512-5212 View (251) 512-5212
Photo of Joanna Snow, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Snow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
Finding the right counselor is important for your needs. I offer a positive, solution-focused approach, deeply caring about my clients' success. With extensive training in relationship dynamics, trauma, and mood regulation, I help clients thrive in their personal life through realistic steps. My first goal is creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel understood, validated, and empowered to explore their emotions and experiences.
Finding the right counselor is important for your needs. I offer a positive, solution-focused approach, deeply caring about my clients' success. With extensive training in relationship dynamics, trauma, and mood regulation, I help clients thrive in their personal life through realistic steps. My first goal is creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel understood, validated, and empowered to explore their emotions and experiences.
(251) 220-5724 View (251) 220-5724
Photo of Lizzie Hunter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lizzie Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
Welcome! I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families on a variety of challenges they may be facing. I have experience working with behavioral difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and depression. I know that mental health struggles can be isolating, vulnerable, and terrifying at times. Recognizing that therapy is a big step, I aim to create a sense of trust with you and your family. It’s my hope that you’ll find answers throughout your work with me in a non-judgmental, healing space.
Welcome! I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families on a variety of challenges they may be facing. I have experience working with behavioral difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and depression. I know that mental health struggles can be isolating, vulnerable, and terrifying at times. Recognizing that therapy is a big step, I aim to create a sense of trust with you and your family. It’s my hope that you’ll find answers throughout your work with me in a non-judgmental, healing space.
(251) 577-5442 View (251) 577-5442
Photo of Anna Barksdale, MSCP, LPC-S, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Barksdale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC-S, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36603
As a counselor who specializes in anxiety and depression, I understand the unique challenges that you face. I am passionate about helping you find happiness and peace in your life. Whether it’s navigating changes such as aging, perimenopause and menopause and midlife changes, grief & loss, re-evaluation of relationships and self-worth, I can help. My goal is to provide support and guidance so that my clients can achieve the happiness they deserve.
As a counselor who specializes in anxiety and depression, I understand the unique challenges that you face. I am passionate about helping you find happiness and peace in your life. Whether it’s navigating changes such as aging, perimenopause and menopause and midlife changes, grief & loss, re-evaluation of relationships and self-worth, I can help. My goal is to provide support and guidance so that my clients can achieve the happiness they deserve.
(251) 281-0514 View (251) 281-0514
Photo of Carrie Kennedy, MS, ALC, Counselor
Carrie Kennedy
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
I am proud of you for taking the first step! It is time to focus on you! My passion is to help clients find healing and empowerment within themselves through the counseling process. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where all who walk into the office can feel comfortable simply being themselves. It is essential that the clients feel valued, heard, and respected. In addition, I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
I am proud of you for taking the first step! It is time to focus on you! My passion is to help clients find healing and empowerment within themselves through the counseling process. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where all who walk into the office can feel comfortable simply being themselves. It is essential that the clients feel valued, heard, and respected. In addition, I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
(251) 244-4332 View (251) 244-4332
Photo of Jaime Ladnier, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaime Ladnier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
Life is hard. Sometimes we find ourselves trying to find happiness based on how other people define what happy should be. This can cause anxiety, depression, feelings of being lost or like you're not enough. Traumatic events, personal experiences, and life in general guide how we see the world and everyone's view is unique. How do you define happy? Lower anxiety? Less depression? Improved relationships? Maybe you haven't figured that out yet. That's where I can help.
Life is hard. Sometimes we find ourselves trying to find happiness based on how other people define what happy should be. This can cause anxiety, depression, feelings of being lost or like you're not enough. Traumatic events, personal experiences, and life in general guide how we see the world and everyone's view is unique. How do you define happy? Lower anxiety? Less depression? Improved relationships? Maybe you haven't figured that out yet. That's where I can help.
(251) 336-3276 View (251) 336-3276
Photo of John B French, BA-Psy, NCAC-II, CADC-II, CIP
John B French
BA-Psy, NCAC-II, CADC-II, CIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
Let me begin by thanking you for taking the difficult step of addressing your or a loved one's substance abuse problem. I have 30 years of experience in substance abuse and the counseling there of. I have a public and private background in the field, having worked for non-profit rehabilitation facilities, private practice and judicial drug court systems. Through individual counseling, assessments/evaluations and compassionate caring I have helped hundreds find their way back to a normal happy life. Let's start that journey together today.
Let me begin by thanking you for taking the difficult step of addressing your or a loved one's substance abuse problem. I have 30 years of experience in substance abuse and the counseling there of. I have a public and private background in the field, having worked for non-profit rehabilitation facilities, private practice and judicial drug court systems. Through individual counseling, assessments/evaluations and compassionate caring I have helped hundreds find their way back to a normal happy life. Let's start that journey together today.
(251) 732-2043 View (251) 732-2043
Photo of Ejemhen Hines, MS, ALC, Counselor
Ejemhen Hines
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36603
Associate Licensed Counselor Supervised by Anna Barksdale, NCC, LPC-S. You may be wondering how you got here - Hurting inside and looking for someone to turn to. You've been feeling unmotivated, drained, lost, and maybe anxious or sad, wondering how you'll get through another day like this. Meeting new friends should be the best part of your life, but you can't let yourself trust anyone that deeply. You're ready to release the hopelessness.
Associate Licensed Counselor Supervised by Anna Barksdale, NCC, LPC-S. You may be wondering how you got here - Hurting inside and looking for someone to turn to. You've been feeling unmotivated, drained, lost, and maybe anxious or sad, wondering how you'll get through another day like this. Meeting new friends should be the best part of your life, but you can't let yourself trust anyone that deeply. You're ready to release the hopelessness.
(251) 325-0579 View (251) 325-0579
Photo of Kathryn Hudson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
As a mom of twins, I know how challenging parenting can be. Social media influences, self harm behaviors, impulse control, anger management, bullying and low self worth are just a few of the issues adolescents and their families must navigate. Better relationships within the family unit are possible. Seeing your child smile again is possible. Laughing with your children again is possible. Your adolescent making good choices again is possible. It just requires, change. Start Over, Start Now. Let today be your Day 1.
As a mom of twins, I know how challenging parenting can be. Social media influences, self harm behaviors, impulse control, anger management, bullying and low self worth are just a few of the issues adolescents and their families must navigate. Better relationships within the family unit are possible. Seeing your child smile again is possible. Laughing with your children again is possible. Your adolescent making good choices again is possible. It just requires, change. Start Over, Start Now. Let today be your Day 1.
(251) 345-6938 View (251) 345-6938
Photo of Raven Ates, MS, ALC, Counselor
Raven Ates
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36603
As an Associate Licensed Counselor, under the supervision of Anna Barksdale, LPC-S, I'm dedicated to providing compassionate care for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues. My approach is grounded in empathy and evidence-based practices, creating a safe space for clients to freely express themselves. I use various techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and relaxation exercises to help clients manage their symptoms. My goal is to empower individuals to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful connections, guiding them toward healing and fulfillment.
As an Associate Licensed Counselor, under the supervision of Anna Barksdale, LPC-S, I'm dedicated to providing compassionate care for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues. My approach is grounded in empathy and evidence-based practices, creating a safe space for clients to freely express themselves. I use various techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and relaxation exercises to help clients manage their symptoms. My goal is to empower individuals to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful connections, guiding them toward healing and fulfillment.
(251) 317-2662 View (251) 317-2662
Photo of Ross Hunter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ross Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, and difficult life transitions, in addition to working with a number of different other psychological issues, such as ADHD, OCD, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, men’s issues, anger, and relationship problems. I integrate a number therapeutic models in my work, including ACT, Existential Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy,
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, and difficult life transitions, in addition to working with a number of different other psychological issues, such as ADHD, OCD, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, men’s issues, anger, and relationship problems. I integrate a number therapeutic models in my work, including ACT, Existential Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy,
(251) 577-5075 View (251) 577-5075
Photo of LaKendra Henage - Tranquility Counseling and Consult, LLC, MS, LPC, ICADC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tranquility Counseling and Consult, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ICADC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is LaKendra Henage, and I am the owner of Tranquility Counseling and Consult, LLC. I am a licensed professional counselor in the states of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. My mission is to guide you through the appropriate changes needed to promote behavioral change by changing your thought patterns and feelings. I am committed to working with you as a client by respecting your beliefs, focusing on your goals, and helping you cultivate a healthier you. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to meet you where you are to become a healthier version of yourself in every aspect of your life.
Welcome! My name is LaKendra Henage, and I am the owner of Tranquility Counseling and Consult, LLC. I am a licensed professional counselor in the states of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. My mission is to guide you through the appropriate changes needed to promote behavioral change by changing your thought patterns and feelings. I am committed to working with you as a client by respecting your beliefs, focusing on your goals, and helping you cultivate a healthier you. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to meet you where you are to become a healthier version of yourself in every aspect of your life.
(251) 313-1478 View (251) 313-1478
Photo of Zach F Thompson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach F Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36603
I am an Allender Trained therapist working with clients who have significant stories of harm. My focus is in issues of trauma, addiction, grief, shame and relational issues for both men, women and couples. My training is in a narrative approach, helping people uncover their story, leading to pathways of healing. It is in relationships that we get wounded and it is in relationships that we find healing. We are storied people. Our stories include places of harm and trauma. I believe the work in healing and growth is uncovering our stories and bringing care to the places of harm.
I am an Allender Trained therapist working with clients who have significant stories of harm. My focus is in issues of trauma, addiction, grief, shame and relational issues for both men, women and couples. My training is in a narrative approach, helping people uncover their story, leading to pathways of healing. It is in relationships that we get wounded and it is in relationships that we find healing. We are storied people. Our stories include places of harm and trauma. I believe the work in healing and growth is uncovering our stories and bringing care to the places of harm.
(251) 292-9028 View (251) 292-9028
Photo of Michelle N Krulewicz, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle N Krulewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
I work with clients through the lifespan. I believe in meeting clients where they are to achieve goals and find more contentment with their lives. While I do work with people struggling with mental illness, I also work with those who would just like to gain perspective and increased effectiveness in their lives.
I work with clients through the lifespan. I believe in meeting clients where they are to achieve goals and find more contentment with their lives. While I do work with people struggling with mental illness, I also work with those who would just like to gain perspective and increased effectiveness in their lives.
(251) 333-1631 View (251) 333-1631
Photo of Joanna Snow - Reduced Fee Counseling- JSM Counseling
Reduced Fee Counseling- JSM Counseling
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
We know it can be hard to find affordable counseling. Our team provides reduced fee counseling for all ages and different clinical areas. We are located in Downtown Mobile. Our current team is Maria McKenna who is trained in EMDR, works with trauma, teens, adults and couples. Benjamin Snow works with preteens, teens and adults. He also specializes in working with Special needs. Kiara Brown works with children, teens, couples, and adults. We provide online and in-person counseling sessions. You can check out our website, call, or text to receive more information about our staff.
We know it can be hard to find affordable counseling. Our team provides reduced fee counseling for all ages and different clinical areas. We are located in Downtown Mobile. Our current team is Maria McKenna who is trained in EMDR, works with trauma, teens, adults and couples. Benjamin Snow works with preteens, teens and adults. He also specializes in working with Special needs. Kiara Brown works with children, teens, couples, and adults. We provide online and in-person counseling sessions. You can check out our website, call, or text to receive more information about our staff.
(251) 220-4728 View (251) 220-4728
Photo of Jennifer Jordan, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Jordan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
This world is a broken place, and all of us are affected by that brokenness. Often, we seek to escape or cover the pain by pretending we don't hurt and looking to relationships and addictive behaviors to cope. As we avoid what's really happening inside, we can find ourselves struggling with depression, anxiety, and many other mental health issues. I look forward to working with clients who are hoping for a deeper level of healing and who are ready to do the courageous work of facing the truth about their story and how it has affected them.
This world is a broken place, and all of us are affected by that brokenness. Often, we seek to escape or cover the pain by pretending we don't hurt and looking to relationships and addictive behaviors to cope. As we avoid what's really happening inside, we can find ourselves struggling with depression, anxiety, and many other mental health issues. I look forward to working with clients who are hoping for a deeper level of healing and who are ready to do the courageous work of facing the truth about their story and how it has affected them.
(251) 220-0609 View (251) 220-0609
Photo of Morgan H Spivey, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan H Spivey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
These past few years have brought a global traumatic event to the doorsteps of our lives and hearts. Whether this feels new to you or deeply familiar, your story and experience is worth attunement and care. I am passionate about seeing redemption come in the lives of children and adults who have experienced trauma and loss. Events in our lives fragment our hearts, minds, and bodies, and we are in need of repair- both with ourselves and each other. I see children, adults, and couples, and I have extensive training in trauma and abuse. I see clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
These past few years have brought a global traumatic event to the doorsteps of our lives and hearts. Whether this feels new to you or deeply familiar, your story and experience is worth attunement and care. I am passionate about seeing redemption come in the lives of children and adults who have experienced trauma and loss. Events in our lives fragment our hearts, minds, and bodies, and we are in need of repair- both with ourselves and each other. I see children, adults, and couples, and I have extensive training in trauma and abuse. I see clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
(251) 244-3360 View (251) 244-3360
Photo of Christina Steele, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
Waitlist for new clients
Life is hard. It can be beautiful and wonderful, and sometimes very hard. It is my passion to walk alongside people as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. If that looks like processing trauma, life changes, anxiety, relationship issues, or a combination of challenges, my goals are your goals. In my office I advocate for restored hope, even through dark deep emotions. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space to work through difficult emotional experiences. You are not alone in life’s journey, and it is my hope to help you discover your strengths so you can experience freedom from painful experiences.
Life is hard. It can be beautiful and wonderful, and sometimes very hard. It is my passion to walk alongside people as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. If that looks like processing trauma, life changes, anxiety, relationship issues, or a combination of challenges, my goals are your goals. In my office I advocate for restored hope, even through dark deep emotions. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space to work through difficult emotional experiences. You are not alone in life’s journey, and it is my hope to help you discover your strengths so you can experience freedom from painful experiences.
(251) 235-5180 View (251) 235-5180
Photo of Emily Brewer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
Are you or someone you love is looking for professional help in dealing with anxiety, depression, or serious mental illness? I am pleased to offer my years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide therapy that can ease the burden of emotional stress that adults from all walks of life are struggling through. Often, my clients feel a significant change in a shorter time than clinical approaches that depend on years of therapy. I work together with people so they learn to master different ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving in life's stressful situations.
Are you or someone you love is looking for professional help in dealing with anxiety, depression, or serious mental illness? I am pleased to offer my years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide therapy that can ease the burden of emotional stress that adults from all walks of life are struggling through. Often, my clients feel a significant change in a shorter time than clinical approaches that depend on years of therapy. I work together with people so they learn to master different ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving in life's stressful situations.
(251) 319-7111 View (251) 319-7111
Photo of Jennifer Norton, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Jennifer Norton
Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Business District, Mobile, AL 36602
While gaining seniority is an accomplishment, it comes with many obstacles we don't often consider. When senior loved ones encounter health challenges it impacts the whole family. Understanding, navigating, and adapting to those changes requires more than patience; it requires the support and guidance of someone who not only comprehends the complexities of such transitions but also approaches them with a deep sense of empathy and compassion.
While gaining seniority is an accomplishment, it comes with many obstacles we don't often consider. When senior loved ones encounter health challenges it impacts the whole family. Understanding, navigating, and adapting to those changes requires more than patience; it requires the support and guidance of someone who not only comprehends the complexities of such transitions but also approaches them with a deep sense of empathy and compassion.
(251) 292-1363 View (251) 292-1363
1

See more therapy options for Central Business District, Mobile

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Central Business District, Mobile, AL

50+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Central Business District, Mobile, AL who prioritize treating:

84% Depression
84% Anxiety
74% Trauma and PTSD
72% Relationship Issues
67% Coping Skills
61% Grief
58% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
56% Optum

How Therapists in Central Business District, Mobile, AL see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Central Business District, Mobile?

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.