Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Rachel Lucero, Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Lucero
Counselor, tLPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I am Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the states of New Mexico (LPCC), Pennsylvania (LPC), Colorado (LPC) and Tennessee (LPC-MHSP temp). Since 2016, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with mental health issues including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and more. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders in adults and teens and work with individuals and families to foster feeling from disordered eating.
I am Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the states of New Mexico (LPCC), Pennsylvania (LPC), Colorado (LPC) and Tennessee (LPC-MHSP temp). Since 2016, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with mental health issues including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and more. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders in adults and teens and work with individuals and families to foster feeling from disordered eating.
(865) 800-3841 View (865) 800-3841
Photo of Celeste Ballard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Celeste Ballard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37918
Celeste specializes in working with clients who are seeking to unseat, and unlock long held patterns in their lives. Individuals who wish to get to the root of their problems, and face issues that may be preventing meaningful change and peace in their lives. Oftentimes these clients are those who have had traditional therapy methods or have been doing their own self-help work and are at a “stuck” point and are looking for answers that can be accessed through somatic or meditation based work. She also works with therapists looking to deepen their own personal process to increase their efficacy and joy in their work as a therapist.
Celeste specializes in working with clients who are seeking to unseat, and unlock long held patterns in their lives. Individuals who wish to get to the root of their problems, and face issues that may be preventing meaningful change and peace in their lives. Oftentimes these clients are those who have had traditional therapy methods or have been doing their own self-help work and are at a “stuck” point and are looking for answers that can be accessed through somatic or meditation based work. She also works with therapists looking to deepen their own personal process to increase their efficacy and joy in their work as a therapist.
(865) 401-6870 View (865) 401-6870
Photo of Kristin Kimberlain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Kristin Kimberlain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Are you asking yourself what you want out of life and wondering how to get there? Life can be painful, confusing, and feel directionless. At the same time, we all possess an inner wisdom that healing happens when we are able to access our true selves. I am passionate about deepening others' capacity to see and be seen in new ways. I hold space especially for those who experience anxiety, depression, and difficulty with life transitions. I also work with clients who are struggling with religious trauma, doubt, deconstruction, or other forms of hurt inflicted by faith systems.
Are you asking yourself what you want out of life and wondering how to get there? Life can be painful, confusing, and feel directionless. At the same time, we all possess an inner wisdom that healing happens when we are able to access our true selves. I am passionate about deepening others' capacity to see and be seen in new ways. I hold space especially for those who experience anxiety, depression, and difficulty with life transitions. I also work with clients who are struggling with religious trauma, doubt, deconstruction, or other forms of hurt inflicted by faith systems.
(865) 345-4758 View (865) 345-4758
Photo of Trisha Overton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Trisha Overton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC(t), M Ed
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Our past may not define us, but we can sometimes carry our past with us in our bodies, and not realize it. If we do not properly process those past hurts, trials and traumas we continue to carry them with us through life. It is my hope as a therapist to help others to heal from those, and to let those past memories not be triggers of any negative or hurtful feelings, but to just be a memory. I am passionate about trauma therapy. I believe that there can be healing, and it is my desire to help others through that process.
Our past may not define us, but we can sometimes carry our past with us in our bodies, and not realize it. If we do not properly process those past hurts, trials and traumas we continue to carry them with us through life. It is my hope as a therapist to help others to heal from those, and to let those past memories not be triggers of any negative or hurtful feelings, but to just be a memory. I am passionate about trauma therapy. I believe that there can be healing, and it is my desire to help others through that process.
(865) 800-0560 View (865) 800-0560
Joy Lowrance
Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Life is often difficult, and especially so during transitions. It is helpful to have a safe, secure place to sort through those transitions as you make changes, whether planned or unexpected, with school, work, or family situations. Change can bring with it growth, accompanied by anxiety, fear, and sadness, and it affects everyone in your circle. While anxiety, fear and sadness are normal responses to life events, they can become overwhelming. If you are struggling with life and the changes it sometimes brings, do not hesitate to reach out for support to help you grow through it.
Life is often difficult, and especially so during transitions. It is helpful to have a safe, secure place to sort through those transitions as you make changes, whether planned or unexpected, with school, work, or family situations. Change can bring with it growth, accompanied by anxiety, fear, and sadness, and it affects everyone in your circle. While anxiety, fear and sadness are normal responses to life events, they can become overwhelming. If you are struggling with life and the changes it sometimes brings, do not hesitate to reach out for support to help you grow through it.
(623) 455-5483 View (623) 455-5483
Photo of Jillian Creswell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Jillian Creswell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with challenges related to daily stressors, past trauma or life transitions? I understand that change can be scary, and I am here to help clients through this process. I enjoy working with adults as they navigate life changes, learn skills for managing stress, and improve relationships. I have experience with teens, college students and young professionals, as they explore self-identity, family conflict, and challenges related to work/life balance. I am also passionate about helping clients heal from childhood trauma and find new ways to manage emotions.
Are you struggling with challenges related to daily stressors, past trauma or life transitions? I understand that change can be scary, and I am here to help clients through this process. I enjoy working with adults as they navigate life changes, learn skills for managing stress, and improve relationships. I have experience with teens, college students and young professionals, as they explore self-identity, family conflict, and challenges related to work/life balance. I am also passionate about helping clients heal from childhood trauma and find new ways to manage emotions.
(865) 270-4729 View (865) 270-4729
Photo of Camelia Guernsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Camelia Guernsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
My primary goal in working with clients is to build a trusting and transparent relationship where together we can explore the relationship they have with self, important people in their lives, and the unique environments they navigate. This means my approach is insight-driven and built on the belief that self-knowledge is an empowering tool needed to create a deeper understanding of patterns, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In my experience, this process creates space for the brain to consciously make the desired changes.
My primary goal in working with clients is to build a trusting and transparent relationship where together we can explore the relationship they have with self, important people in their lives, and the unique environments they navigate. This means my approach is insight-driven and built on the belief that self-knowledge is an empowering tool needed to create a deeper understanding of patterns, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. In my experience, this process creates space for the brain to consciously make the desired changes.
(865) 280-1532 View (865) 280-1532
Photo of Lyons View Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Lyons View Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Dr. Smelcer has over 15 years of clinical experience specializing in treating depression, anxiety, addiction disorders including behavioral addictions, trauma, grief, sexual identity concerns, premarital, life transitions, ADHD, LGBTQ and childhood disorders. Dr. Smelcer is passionate about helping clients gain insight and build from their strengths to make changes that improve their overall functioning.
Dr. Smelcer has over 15 years of clinical experience specializing in treating depression, anxiety, addiction disorders including behavioral addictions, trauma, grief, sexual identity concerns, premarital, life transitions, ADHD, LGBTQ and childhood disorders. Dr. Smelcer is passionate about helping clients gain insight and build from their strengths to make changes that improve their overall functioning.
(865) 344-6076 View (865) 344-6076
Photo of Lauren Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Lauren Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Finding a space to feel safe, heard, and valued can be difficult. It's even harder to find this space, when we're feeling overwhelmed by life. I have learned that this essential piece- developing trust and safety with my clients- is the basis for healing and wholeness. I strive to put clients and their needs first. If you're struggling with mental health challenges as a result of trauma or significant life stress, please reach out so we can talk more about working together on your journey towards more peace and healing.
Finding a space to feel safe, heard, and valued can be difficult. It's even harder to find this space, when we're feeling overwhelmed by life. I have learned that this essential piece- developing trust and safety with my clients- is the basis for healing and wholeness. I strive to put clients and their needs first. If you're struggling with mental health challenges as a result of trauma or significant life stress, please reach out so we can talk more about working together on your journey towards more peace and healing.
(865) 328-9005 View (865) 328-9005
Photo of Carl E Bello, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Carl E Bello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37920
Do you feel: sad, angry, afraid, lonely, powerless, stuck, or numb? Emotions are messages from the deep Self that something needs your attention. It may be a relationship, a past trauma, a lack of living your true purpose, or simply increasing threats to your personal health or well being, as well as that of our planet. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space in which we can explore the particular areas in your life that are asking for your attention. This process can lead to new insights and perspectives as to what changes might be helpful for you.
Do you feel: sad, angry, afraid, lonely, powerless, stuck, or numb? Emotions are messages from the deep Self that something needs your attention. It may be a relationship, a past trauma, a lack of living your true purpose, or simply increasing threats to your personal health or well being, as well as that of our planet. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space in which we can explore the particular areas in your life that are asking for your attention. This process can lead to new insights and perspectives as to what changes might be helpful for you.
(865) 213-7401 View (865) 213-7401
Photo of John Barsotti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
John Barsotti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
John Barsotti is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Tennessee, and he has been practicing therapy for the past 8 years. John's counseling style is non-judgemental, empathetic, and compassionate. He uses a holistic approach to help clients identify their strengths to help manage a balance of self-care, mindfulness, and well-being. John uses several different evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. Using a client-centered approach, the focus is to identify and implement techniques to help clients manage their needs and goals.
John Barsotti is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Tennessee, and he has been practicing therapy for the past 8 years. John's counseling style is non-judgemental, empathetic, and compassionate. He uses a holistic approach to help clients identify their strengths to help manage a balance of self-care, mindfulness, and well-being. John uses several different evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. Using a client-centered approach, the focus is to identify and implement techniques to help clients manage their needs and goals.
(865) 432-6814 View (865) 432-6814
Photo of Emily Chadwick, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Emily Chadwick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37918
Whatever situation you’re in or having a hard time letting go of, there is a way to get through it. While I do specialize in helping children and parents, I am passionate about all people. I use a wide variety of approaches to treat anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma (complex and single-event), behavioral issues in children and teens, parenting, and couples. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions. Send me an email if you have questions, I always respond as soon as possible! I am currently accepting new clients!
Whatever situation you’re in or having a hard time letting go of, there is a way to get through it. While I do specialize in helping children and parents, I am passionate about all people. I use a wide variety of approaches to treat anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma (complex and single-event), behavioral issues in children and teens, parenting, and couples. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions. Send me an email if you have questions, I always respond as soon as possible! I am currently accepting new clients!
(865) 345-5146 View (865) 345-5146
Photo of Gray Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Gray Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience as a therapist in outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, cancer treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment centers and schools. With 10 years of serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. I tend to focus on the whole body and its connections. I understand counseling as growth, much in the same way a tree grows. In counseling we honor our roots, noting where we came from while stretching our branches high and reaching for what we wish to become.
I have experience as a therapist in outpatient mental health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, cancer treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment centers and schools. With 10 years of serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. I tend to focus on the whole body and its connections. I understand counseling as growth, much in the same way a tree grows. In counseling we honor our roots, noting where we came from while stretching our branches high and reaching for what we wish to become.
(865) 217-0518 View (865) 217-0518
Photo of Angela Masini, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Angela Masini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
(865) 217-0514 View (865) 217-0514
Photo of Rachel Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Helping individuals to heal from their pasts and grow into the best version of themselves is something I truly love. Today, we know that trauma settles into our brains and bodies in ways that time cannot fully heal (despite the old adage, “time heals everything”) . Would you like to be more present in your daily life, have a healthier relationship to yourself and others? I would love to work together to help you heal from your past, so that you can live life more fully today.
Hello! Helping individuals to heal from their pasts and grow into the best version of themselves is something I truly love. Today, we know that trauma settles into our brains and bodies in ways that time cannot fully heal (despite the old adage, “time heals everything”) . Would you like to be more present in your daily life, have a healthier relationship to yourself and others? I would love to work together to help you heal from your past, so that you can live life more fully today.
(865) 328-9538 View (865) 328-9538
Photo of Taira Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Taira Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people pleasing humans who want to break the chains of self-doubt and overthinking. Through empowerment and goal-oriented therapy you will explore how your past as impacted your present. Together we will instill hope in order to take back control of your life.
I specialize in working with people pleasing humans who want to break the chains of self-doubt and overthinking. Through empowerment and goal-oriented therapy you will explore how your past as impacted your present. Together we will instill hope in order to take back control of your life.
(423) 380-0403 View (423) 380-0403
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Grove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sarah Elizabeth Grove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Not accepting new clients
In our lives, we will experience many transitions; school, relationships, aging, medical needs, and numerous others. In our current state, Coronavirus is interrupting our lives in a major way and is likely one of our biggest challenges today. This is when mental health can become more difficult to manage. It is not unusual to experience difficult feelings during such times. We may even find that we are having severe anxiety or depression. We can work through these transitions and move beyond them to a better life. It will take work but it can be done.
In our lives, we will experience many transitions; school, relationships, aging, medical needs, and numerous others. In our current state, Coronavirus is interrupting our lives in a major way and is likely one of our biggest challenges today. This is when mental health can become more difficult to manage. It is not unusual to experience difficult feelings during such times. We may even find that we are having severe anxiety or depression. We can work through these transitions and move beyond them to a better life. It will take work but it can be done.
(865) 302-3345 View (865) 302-3345
Photo of Beth Shoaff, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Beth Shoaff
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Confiding in someone about your hardest times can be difficult and I am here to help guide you on that path, if you will have me! I wholeheartedly believe that everyone deserves a safe, comfortable space for self exploration. My hope is that you find a space in which you can be curious about yourself and your therapy process. I take an Interpersonal Process approach while also incorporating core concepts from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person Centered approaches. I believe to first start processing, we must build a strong foundation of skills and rapport.
Confiding in someone about your hardest times can be difficult and I am here to help guide you on that path, if you will have me! I wholeheartedly believe that everyone deserves a safe, comfortable space for self exploration. My hope is that you find a space in which you can be curious about yourself and your therapy process. I take an Interpersonal Process approach while also incorporating core concepts from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person Centered approaches. I believe to first start processing, we must build a strong foundation of skills and rapport.
(865) 674-4668 View (865) 674-4668
Photo of Christian Lockhart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Christian Lockhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Hello! I'm Christian. If you are looking for a safe and supportive space where you can freely share your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgment, I would love the privilege of providing just that. In our therapeutic relationship, you will have the chance to heal from psychological wounds, develop coping skills, and move from surviving to thriving.
Hello! I'm Christian. If you are looking for a safe and supportive space where you can freely share your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of judgment, I would love the privilege of providing just that. In our therapeutic relationship, you will have the chance to heal from psychological wounds, develop coping skills, and move from surviving to thriving.
View
Photo of Susan Stirewalt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Susan Stirewalt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in TN and National Certified Counselor (NCC). She specializes in treating individuals with anxiety, complex trauma, and managing stress and relationship issues. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Townsend Institute, where she studied the Competence & Character Growth Model, integrating the latest in neuroscience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions with a foundation of Christian faith and Biblical principles.
Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in TN and National Certified Counselor (NCC). She specializes in treating individuals with anxiety, complex trauma, and managing stress and relationship issues. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Townsend Institute, where she studied the Competence & Character Growth Model, integrating the latest in neuroscience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions with a foundation of Christian faith and Biblical principles.
(865) 276-8921 View (865) 276-8921

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.