Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Kristen Jalovecky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Kristen Jalovecky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Kristen Jalovecky, LCSW Kristen Jalovecky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2018. Kristen has experience working directly with clients in many different settings including outpatient private practice, home-based psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and hospice/palliative care. Also, she was blessed with the opportunity to work with an equine-assisted psychotherapy organization called Traverse, inc. which is an amazing program helping children and families who have experienced trauma.
Kristen Jalovecky, LCSW Kristen Jalovecky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2018. Kristen has experience working directly with clients in many different settings including outpatient private practice, home-based psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and hospice/palliative care. Also, she was blessed with the opportunity to work with an equine-assisted psychotherapy organization called Traverse, inc. which is an amazing program helping children and families who have experienced trauma.
(865) 761-8557 View (865) 761-8557
Photo of Patricia Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Patricia Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one or beloved pet? Do you struggle with feelings of regret, guilt, or isolation? Well-intentioned messages from others may be to “just push through it” or "give it time." However, we are often left feeling alone and uncertain about how we are supposed to resume our relationships, careers and lives. For some, unresolved grief can lead to poor physical health and a lower quality of life. Grief is not a sign that you are unwell or unevolved. It means that you have loved and you wanted love to continue. Love and life beyond the loss is possible.
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one or beloved pet? Do you struggle with feelings of regret, guilt, or isolation? Well-intentioned messages from others may be to “just push through it” or "give it time." However, we are often left feeling alone and uncertain about how we are supposed to resume our relationships, careers and lives. For some, unresolved grief can lead to poor physical health and a lower quality of life. Grief is not a sign that you are unwell or unevolved. It means that you have loved and you wanted love to continue. Love and life beyond the loss is possible.
(865) 401-9756 View (865) 401-9756
Photo of Ethel Ding, LPC Intern in Knoxville, TN
Ethel Ding
LPC Intern, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Perhaps you’ve caught yourself thinking “This isn’t what I thought my life to look like,” or “I’m better than this.” Maybe the thought that crossed your mind was as simple as “I need help.” Asking for help is not always easy, and it takes strength to acknowledge your vulnerabilities. Whatever the reason that has led you on a search for a therapist, I commend you for your courage in taking this life-changing step.
Perhaps you’ve caught yourself thinking “This isn’t what I thought my life to look like,” or “I’m better than this.” Maybe the thought that crossed your mind was as simple as “I need help.” Asking for help is not always easy, and it takes strength to acknowledge your vulnerabilities. Whatever the reason that has led you on a search for a therapist, I commend you for your courage in taking this life-changing step.
(865) 412-8422 View (865) 412-8422
Photo of Korrie Xavier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Korrie Xavier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37950  (Online Only)
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
(865) 484-3242 View (865) 484-3242
Photo of Matalyn Olvera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Matalyn Olvera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are on a journey toward self-compassion and living more fully as their authentic selves. Many individuals I work with have experienced early life trauma, religious trauma, social anxiety, overwhelm, or are in the middle of a life transition. We can work together to find helpful ways to gain more balance in your life. I offer sessions between 9am-2pm on weekdays EST.
I work with individuals who are on a journey toward self-compassion and living more fully as their authentic selves. Many individuals I work with have experienced early life trauma, religious trauma, social anxiety, overwhelm, or are in the middle of a life transition. We can work together to find helpful ways to gain more balance in your life. I offer sessions between 9am-2pm on weekdays EST.
(865) 234-4318 View (865) 234-4318
Photo of Laura DiMatteo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Laura DiMatteo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Not accepting new clients
Do you wonder where it all started? Do you ever think there could be a better way? In our work together we will look back at patterns, struggles and pain to trace the development of anxiety, depression, panic or other mental illness in your life. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I use my experience and training to help clients make the connection between their current struggles, and patterns that stretch back through their lives. Whether we are focused on the issues in the present, symptoms of anxiety or depression, or working through past trauma, the goal is to find strength and peace to live our best lives.
Do you wonder where it all started? Do you ever think there could be a better way? In our work together we will look back at patterns, struggles and pain to trace the development of anxiety, depression, panic or other mental illness in your life. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I use my experience and training to help clients make the connection between their current struggles, and patterns that stretch back through their lives. Whether we are focused on the issues in the present, symptoms of anxiety or depression, or working through past trauma, the goal is to find strength and peace to live our best lives.
(865) 503-4486 View (865) 503-4486
Photo of Reico Hopewell, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Reico Hopewell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, QCS,, SAP, CAADAC, NCAC I, LADAC 2
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37918
One of my goals for a client is for them to gain self-efficacy for a self-directed plan of recovery.
One of my goals for a client is for them to gain self-efficacy for a self-directed plan of recovery.
(865) 213-9114 View (865) 213-9114
Photo of Dr. Amy L. Skinner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Amy L. Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, ACS-TN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Now offering adult (18 and over) ADHD testing and Cranial Electrical Stimulation (CES) in-office. My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. I've had success in anxiety and depression management; mental health/wellness management; issues specific to women in transition; disability adjustment; and college student transition.
Now offering adult (18 and over) ADHD testing and Cranial Electrical Stimulation (CES) in-office. My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. I've had success in anxiety and depression management; mental health/wellness management; issues specific to women in transition; disability adjustment; and college student transition.
(865) 258-8297 View (865) 258-8297
Photo of Pamela Carpenter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Pamela Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Life is filled with change. Oftentimes, we have to confront things we never expected. Sometimes, we are faced with overwhelming situations, such as loss or trauma, and we need someone to walk alongside us. But for all of us, there are times we know we want our lives to be different, but we may be unsure how to make changes. Perhaps, our moods or feelings seem to command our choices, or perhaps we just don't know what steps to take first. Therapy is an opportunity for us to pursue desired changes with the assistance that can help us achieve our goals.
Life is filled with change. Oftentimes, we have to confront things we never expected. Sometimes, we are faced with overwhelming situations, such as loss or trauma, and we need someone to walk alongside us. But for all of us, there are times we know we want our lives to be different, but we may be unsure how to make changes. Perhaps, our moods or feelings seem to command our choices, or perhaps we just don't know what steps to take first. Therapy is an opportunity for us to pursue desired changes with the assistance that can help us achieve our goals.
(865) 551-6113 View (865) 551-6113
Photo of Built to Bond, Inc. Attachment Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Built to Bond, Inc. Attachment Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, BCPC, CTS, CDVC, NCCE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37931
If you are broken and in need of healing from abuse and trauma and/or are trying to parent a "child forgotten" you have come to the right place. Suffering through the aftermath of sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, foster care and extreme neglect often makes it nearly impossible to trust others, which is a necessary starting point for healthy relationship formation. Built to Bond, Inc. is designed to enable you to make sense of your trauma and begin the healing process from a Christian perspective through the "Treat PTSD with PTSD to get PTSD" treatment modality.
If you are broken and in need of healing from abuse and trauma and/or are trying to parent a "child forgotten" you have come to the right place. Suffering through the aftermath of sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, foster care and extreme neglect often makes it nearly impossible to trust others, which is a necessary starting point for healthy relationship formation. Built to Bond, Inc. is designed to enable you to make sense of your trauma and begin the healing process from a Christian perspective through the "Treat PTSD with PTSD to get PTSD" treatment modality.
(865) 685-5895 View (865) 685-5895
Photo of Stacy P Park, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Stacy P Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
I find it a true honor to have had the opportunity to work for over 30 years with individuals and families in varying levels of distress (inpatient, crisis work, outpatient). I believe that it takes courage to face change and look forward to meeting you and to committing to joining you on your journey. To share my style of compassion and positivity, I take a "glass half full" view of life and pledge to help guide others toward finding their "real truth".
I find it a true honor to have had the opportunity to work for over 30 years with individuals and families in varying levels of distress (inpatient, crisis work, outpatient). I believe that it takes courage to face change and look forward to meeting you and to committing to joining you on your journey. To share my style of compassion and positivity, I take a "glass half full" view of life and pledge to help guide others toward finding their "real truth".
View
Photo of Kindal Akers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Kindal Akers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
(865) 205-0967 View (865) 205-0967
Photo of Sondra Wilkinson, Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Sondra Wilkinson
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified EMDR therapist. I work with adults, couples, and adolescents and believe that my training has been helpful in facilitating growth in my clients. I also believe that my life experiences and successful life accomplishments have contributed to fostering change for individuals and I welcome the opportunity to be part of your healing process and will celebrate in your growth and accomplishments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified EMDR therapist. I work with adults, couples, and adolescents and believe that my training has been helpful in facilitating growth in my clients. I also believe that my life experiences and successful life accomplishments have contributed to fostering change for individuals and I welcome the opportunity to be part of your healing process and will celebrate in your growth and accomplishments.
(865) 217-1766 View (865) 217-1766
Photo of Philip Axtell, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Philip Axtell
Psychologist, PhD, HSP, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37902
I provide psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults for a variety of clinical and educational difficulties. I offer diagnostic and testing services for a wide range of Neurodevelopmental Disorders including ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disorders, and other behavioral and educational concerns. By using a variety of assessment methods, my services are helpful in providing a clear diagnostic picture for individuals who may have a combination of educational and behavioral difficulties or difficult diagnostic features.
I provide psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults for a variety of clinical and educational difficulties. I offer diagnostic and testing services for a wide range of Neurodevelopmental Disorders including ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disorders, and other behavioral and educational concerns. By using a variety of assessment methods, my services are helpful in providing a clear diagnostic picture for individuals who may have a combination of educational and behavioral difficulties or difficult diagnostic features.
(865) 312-7694 View (865) 312-7694
Photo of Linda L Behel, Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Linda L Behel
Counselor, MS, LMFT, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
My goal is to help people identify problem areas and the personal strengths that are available to begin to address those problems. I also focus on helping people improve communication and relationship skills as a part of problem-solving. I treat individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, grief/loss issues, substance abuse, communication and relationship problems, women's issues, adjustment problems, parenting, spiritual issues. I participate in many employee assistance plans and I am in most insurance networks. Please call for detailed information about plans.
My goal is to help people identify problem areas and the personal strengths that are available to begin to address those problems. I also focus on helping people improve communication and relationship skills as a part of problem-solving. I treat individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, grief/loss issues, substance abuse, communication and relationship problems, women's issues, adjustment problems, parenting, spiritual issues. I participate in many employee assistance plans and I am in most insurance networks. Please call for detailed information about plans.
(865) 375-5136 View (865) 375-5136
Photo of Jahna Golly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Jahna Golly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Why go to therapy? We all are allowed to have a crisis, but shouldn't do it at the same time. Therapy can be an incredible tool to help guide us in any stage of life. An experience designed around your individual needs, as healing comes in many forms. As a therapist, I seek to create an open and trusting space for you to be heard, to better understand yourself and to develop strategies that help you to navigate life with a healthy mindset. The therapeutic strategies that I use are guided by a trauma informed lens that allows for the use of many different potential interventions and determined by your personal needs and preferences.
Why go to therapy? We all are allowed to have a crisis, but shouldn't do it at the same time. Therapy can be an incredible tool to help guide us in any stage of life. An experience designed around your individual needs, as healing comes in many forms. As a therapist, I seek to create an open and trusting space for you to be heard, to better understand yourself and to develop strategies that help you to navigate life with a healthy mindset. The therapeutic strategies that I use are guided by a trauma informed lens that allows for the use of many different potential interventions and determined by your personal needs and preferences.
(865) 982-5225 View (865) 982-5225
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 Pamela Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Pamela Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37938  (Online Only)
I have over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Prior to obtaining my LCSW, I worked as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Addiction Specialist in Chattanooga, TN. This experience gave me valuable insight into the lives of my clients who are striving for recovery. I realize that healing can be a difficult road, and I value the opportunity to work alongside my clients who are seeking a more fulfilling life. My background has equipped me to meet the needs of my clients with a high degree of compassion and empathy. If you're ready to take the first step, I'm here.
I have over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Prior to obtaining my LCSW, I worked as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Addiction Specialist in Chattanooga, TN. This experience gave me valuable insight into the lives of my clients who are striving for recovery. I realize that healing can be a difficult road, and I value the opportunity to work alongside my clients who are seeking a more fulfilling life. My background has equipped me to meet the needs of my clients with a high degree of compassion and empathy. If you're ready to take the first step, I'm here.
(865) 424-2652 View (865) 424-2652
Photo of Sarah R. Hamblen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sarah R. Hamblen, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
My name is Sarah R. Hamblen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing clinical services for over 17 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals of all ages, couples, and families on many different issues and concerns. The heart of my practice is finding the strengths within each individual and family. I strive to empower them to reach their goals both independently and as a family group. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, understanding, and implement effective change.
My name is Sarah R. Hamblen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing clinical services for over 17 years. I have worked with a variety of individuals of all ages, couples, and families on many different issues and concerns. The heart of my practice is finding the strengths within each individual and family. I strive to empower them to reach their goals both independently and as a family group. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help individuals gain insight, understanding, and implement effective change.
(865) 248-6816 View (865) 248-6816
Photo of Alexandra Lee, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Alexandra Lee
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Dr. Lee provides psychological assessment for children (e.g., autism, ADHD, learning concerns). My goal is to bring understanding of your child's behavior while emphasizing their strengths through psychological testing. Evaluations will include your child's strengths, vulnerabilities, diagnosis(es), and recommendations for next steps. I have a waitlist for therapy patients.
Dr. Lee provides psychological assessment for children (e.g., autism, ADHD, learning concerns). My goal is to bring understanding of your child's behavior while emphasizing their strengths through psychological testing. Evaluations will include your child's strengths, vulnerabilities, diagnosis(es), and recommendations for next steps. I have a waitlist for therapy patients.
(865) 503-5045 View (865) 503-5045

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.