Therapists in Marietta, GA

Photo of Lydia Odenat, Psychologist in Marietta, GA
Lydia Odenat
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I am a licensed psychologist with expertise in trauma recovery/healing, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic stress, relationships, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions and circumstances. When necessary, I integrate mindfulness, spirituality, and emotion-focused techniques into my therapy approach.
I am a licensed psychologist with expertise in trauma recovery/healing, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic stress, relationships, and adjustment to a variety of life transitions and circumstances. When necessary, I integrate mindfulness, spirituality, and emotion-focused techniques into my therapy approach.
(678) 688-4116 View (678) 688-4116
Photo of Pam Kretzmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Pam Kretzmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
I believe that people get stuck at different times in life. I hope to partner and guide my clients into a more conflict free space. Therapy looks different for everyone. Some people find solutions in only a few sessions, while others need more time to reach a goal. Some benefit from empathy and listening, while others require concrete strategies to overcome obstacles. Many prefer a combination of the two, but it is always a joint effort. My approach is warm and accepting, with a little humor when appropriate.
I believe that people get stuck at different times in life. I hope to partner and guide my clients into a more conflict free space. Therapy looks different for everyone. Some people find solutions in only a few sessions, while others need more time to reach a goal. Some benefit from empathy and listening, while others require concrete strategies to overcome obstacles. Many prefer a combination of the two, but it is always a joint effort. My approach is warm and accepting, with a little humor when appropriate.
(678) 403-6063 View (678) 403-6063
Photo of Dr. Ashley Tolleson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Dr. Ashley Tolleson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping girls and women struggling with stress, anxiety, perfectionism, past trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. I believe the better we understand ourselves, the better we get at making conscious choices. Gaining insight into the "why" and "how" we operate can help us cultivate self-compassion for where we've been and find the courage to do things differently. Many clients who come to work with me identify as overwhelmed high-achievers on the brink of burnout or misunderstood big feelers needing skills and support.
I specialize in helping girls and women struggling with stress, anxiety, perfectionism, past trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. I believe the better we understand ourselves, the better we get at making conscious choices. Gaining insight into the "why" and "how" we operate can help us cultivate self-compassion for where we've been and find the courage to do things differently. Many clients who come to work with me identify as overwhelmed high-achievers on the brink of burnout or misunderstood big feelers needing skills and support.
(678) 498-7319 View (678) 498-7319
Photo of Carmen Bessant, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marietta, GA
Carmen Bessant
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I work with individuals, couples and families and know the challenges that each face. I believe that within every person is the ability to conquer challenges and overcome their past situations. I want to help unlock your potential and the ability to see how powerful and strong you really are in overcoming the obstacles you face. I am a mom of a special needs child, sister, daughter, minister, and friend---all of these roles require a unique connection. I help others learn how to relate and excel in their lives and in relating to others.
I work with individuals, couples and families and know the challenges that each face. I believe that within every person is the ability to conquer challenges and overcome their past situations. I want to help unlock your potential and the ability to see how powerful and strong you really are in overcoming the obstacles you face. I am a mom of a special needs child, sister, daughter, minister, and friend---all of these roles require a unique connection. I help others learn how to relate and excel in their lives and in relating to others.
(404) 442-5731 View (404) 442-5731
Photo of Rebecca Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Rebecca Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30064
Everyone experiences frustrations, struggles, disappointments, losses, and crises in their lives. I work with individuals, couples, and families who have or are experiencing these kind of issues and other difficulties in their lives that keep them from functioning and enjoying their lives and the relationships that are a part of their lives. I believe that restoration can be experienced through loss and brokenness, and that transformation can occur from restoration and healing.
Everyone experiences frustrations, struggles, disappointments, losses, and crises in their lives. I work with individuals, couples, and families who have or are experiencing these kind of issues and other difficulties in their lives that keep them from functioning and enjoying their lives and the relationships that are a part of their lives. I believe that restoration can be experienced through loss and brokenness, and that transformation can occur from restoration and healing.
(678) 894-1008 View (678) 894-1008
Photo of Cameron Butler Wooten, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Cameron Butler Wooten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
Whether you are struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there is more to life, there is help. I provide a variety of services, including: individual, marital, and family counseling. My areas of expertise include: women, teens, and young adults, marital problems, relationship troubles, pre-marital counseling, low self-esteem/identity, problems within the family, depression/anxiety, life transitions, and grief/loss. My goal is to provide you with the insights and tools necessary to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors to new, healthy ways of approaching life.
Whether you are struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there is more to life, there is help. I provide a variety of services, including: individual, marital, and family counseling. My areas of expertise include: women, teens, and young adults, marital problems, relationship troubles, pre-marital counseling, low self-esteem/identity, problems within the family, depression/anxiety, life transitions, and grief/loss. My goal is to provide you with the insights and tools necessary to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors to new, healthy ways of approaching life.
(678) 701-4034 View (678) 701-4034
Photo of Patricia Antonia Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Patricia Antonia Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30066  (Online Only)
My ideal client is one that recognizes their life is not proceeding as they had intended and are motivated to work with a talk therapist on transforming themselves. I am a seasoned therapist who has extensive experience in working with clients with mild to severe depression, interpersonal conflicts,bi cultural/bi racial, alternative lifestyles, chronic health issues e.g. HIV/AIDS, women's issues, divorce and work life imbalances.
My ideal client is one that recognizes their life is not proceeding as they had intended and are motivated to work with a talk therapist on transforming themselves. I am a seasoned therapist who has extensive experience in working with clients with mild to severe depression, interpersonal conflicts,bi cultural/bi racial, alternative lifestyles, chronic health issues e.g. HIV/AIDS, women's issues, divorce and work life imbalances.
(678) 647-9872 View (678) 647-9872
Photo of Leanne Fey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Leanne Fey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a private practice in the East Cobb area of Marietta. I have 35 years of experience as a counselor and have been in private practice for 25 years. I see adults for individual and marital/couples therapy and specialize in helping people with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety/panic, trauma, grief, marital and relationship problems, ADD/ADHD, and life transitions. I will work with you by blending traditional therapy methods with mind/body techniques to help you achieve change in your life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a private practice in the East Cobb area of Marietta. I have 35 years of experience as a counselor and have been in private practice for 25 years. I see adults for individual and marital/couples therapy and specialize in helping people with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety/panic, trauma, grief, marital and relationship problems, ADD/ADHD, and life transitions. I will work with you by blending traditional therapy methods with mind/body techniques to help you achieve change in your life.
(770) 450-5606 View (770) 450-5606
Photo of Tania Rochelle-Catoe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Tania Rochelle-Catoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with ages 18 to 99 in all areas of personal growth. I treat many issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, grief, work or school issues, trauma, and substance abuse. I am trained in EMDR for processing trauma. As a writer myself, I try to help clients discover and nurture their own creative gifts as we seek imaginative solutions to challenges.
I enjoy working with ages 18 to 99 in all areas of personal growth. I treat many issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, grief, work or school issues, trauma, and substance abuse. I am trained in EMDR for processing trauma. As a writer myself, I try to help clients discover and nurture their own creative gifts as we seek imaginative solutions to challenges.
(404) 793-0834 View (404) 793-0834
Photo of Ansley Campbell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marietta, GA
Ansley Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
Not accepting new clients
***Not currently accepting new clients.***My goal in therapy is to provide a collaborative, compassionate, nonjudgmental space for you to find healing and create meaning. I believe therapy isn’t only a place to utilize when in a state of crisis but for continuous self-care, learning how to change maladaptive behaviors, improve self-worth and increase overall wellbeing. My hope is that I can help you create a space where you can be honest, open and authentic while engaging in a supportive and caring relationship.
***Not currently accepting new clients.***My goal in therapy is to provide a collaborative, compassionate, nonjudgmental space for you to find healing and create meaning. I believe therapy isn’t only a place to utilize when in a state of crisis but for continuous self-care, learning how to change maladaptive behaviors, improve self-worth and increase overall wellbeing. My hope is that I can help you create a space where you can be honest, open and authentic while engaging in a supportive and caring relationship.
(404) 737-7782 View (404) 737-7782
Photo of The OCD & Anxiety Center - Georgia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
The OCD & Anxiety Center - Georgia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
At The OCD & Anxiety Center, we are experienced in working with people of all ages whose anxiety has taken over their lives. Many of our patients have been to several treatment providers but have not achieved the desired results; some believe that their anxiety is "the worst case that anyone has seen" and are afraid that they cannot be helped; some are experiencing anxiety-related problems for the first time in their lives. Regardless of your experience, our passionate and skilled team of therapists are excited to provide you with the help that you need and deserve in order to gain mastery over your OCD, anxiety, phobias, and trauma
At The OCD & Anxiety Center, we are experienced in working with people of all ages whose anxiety has taken over their lives. Many of our patients have been to several treatment providers but have not achieved the desired results; some believe that their anxiety is "the worst case that anyone has seen" and are afraid that they cannot be helped; some are experiencing anxiety-related problems for the first time in their lives. Regardless of your experience, our passionate and skilled team of therapists are excited to provide you with the help that you need and deserve in order to gain mastery over your OCD, anxiety, phobias, and trauma
(678) 931-9021 View (678) 931-9021
Photo of Terrance Eric Putter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Marietta, GA
Terrance Eric Putter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30064
I am a highly motivated professional who enjoys working with people in supportive environments. I’ve always been passionate about children in care and helping others, and practiced psychotherapy in England before coming to the US. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychotherapy, with specializations in behavior analysis, person-centered and humanistic approaches. I also work with children who are diagnosed with autism and am a Registered Behavioral Technician.
I am a highly motivated professional who enjoys working with people in supportive environments. I’ve always been passionate about children in care and helping others, and practiced psychotherapy in England before coming to the US. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychotherapy, with specializations in behavior analysis, person-centered and humanistic approaches. I also work with children who are diagnosed with autism and am a Registered Behavioral Technician.
(770) 762-4832 View (770) 762-4832
Photo of Mental Health Evaluations, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Mental Health Evaluations
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062  (Online Only)
My ideal client lives in Georgia or South Carolina and needs a mental health evaluation, psychological evaluation, immigration evaluation, brief therapy, or brief life coaching. My client may need an assessment for court due to legal charges, for divorce litigation, or for administrative immigration proceedings. I provide evaluations and life coaching via private pay. For my therapy clients, I accept Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United Healthcare, Oscar Health, Oxford insurances. All services are provided via telehealth.
My ideal client lives in Georgia or South Carolina and needs a mental health evaluation, psychological evaluation, immigration evaluation, brief therapy, or brief life coaching. My client may need an assessment for court due to legal charges, for divorce litigation, or for administrative immigration proceedings. I provide evaluations and life coaching via private pay. For my therapy clients, I accept Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United Healthcare, Oscar Health, Oxford insurances. All services are provided via telehealth.
(678) 786-2382 View (678) 786-2382
Photo of Stephanie E Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Stephanie E Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30066  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Currently I am NOT accepting new clients. - I became a counselor to help people solve everyday problems, overcome obstacles, and heal wounds that they have suffered in their lives. It is my belief that each person has the answer to his/her problems inside and sometimes just needs encouragement, support or guidance in finding those answers. I am committed to creating a nonjudgmental, supportive environment for my clients to discuss any issue. My aim is to empower my clients with tools and skills to help resolve life's challenges and to help them cultivate the life that they desire.
Currently I am NOT accepting new clients. - I became a counselor to help people solve everyday problems, overcome obstacles, and heal wounds that they have suffered in their lives. It is my belief that each person has the answer to his/her problems inside and sometimes just needs encouragement, support or guidance in finding those answers. I am committed to creating a nonjudgmental, supportive environment for my clients to discuss any issue. My aim is to empower my clients with tools and skills to help resolve life's challenges and to help them cultivate the life that they desire.
(678) 971-0423 View (678) 971-0423
Photo of Stephanie L Rush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Stephanie L Rush
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
You are seeking support with managing stress, anxiety and life transitions. Maybe you are making the difficult decision to end a relationship and move through the phases of break up, separation and/or Divorce. You are ready to address your self-esteem, self-worth and confidence. Setting Boundaries, developing standards and positive self-expectations are areas that you are ready to excel in. You are seeking to feel better and experience a life that is stress free and emotionally healthy so that you can thrive and live a long healthy life.
You are seeking support with managing stress, anxiety and life transitions. Maybe you are making the difficult decision to end a relationship and move through the phases of break up, separation and/or Divorce. You are ready to address your self-esteem, self-worth and confidence. Setting Boundaries, developing standards and positive self-expectations are areas that you are ready to excel in. You are seeking to feel better and experience a life that is stress free and emotionally healthy so that you can thrive and live a long healthy life.
(470) 465-9410 View (470) 465-9410
Photo of Danielle Miller Hajdini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Danielle Miller Hajdini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
Most people are doing the best they know how to do and as a therapist it is my job to meet you wherever you may be in that journey. Given the right support, anyone can learn strategies and techniques to undo negative thoughts, overwhelming feelings and destructive behaviors. In addition to teaching you new coping skills, my holistic work emphasizes lifestyle modification as an integral piece of the mental wellness puzzle. It's a modern approach highlighting nutrition, sleep, movement, and social connections. With compassion and respect, we will work together to form an actionable plan that leads you to sustainable wellness.
Most people are doing the best they know how to do and as a therapist it is my job to meet you wherever you may be in that journey. Given the right support, anyone can learn strategies and techniques to undo negative thoughts, overwhelming feelings and destructive behaviors. In addition to teaching you new coping skills, my holistic work emphasizes lifestyle modification as an integral piece of the mental wellness puzzle. It's a modern approach highlighting nutrition, sleep, movement, and social connections. With compassion and respect, we will work together to form an actionable plan that leads you to sustainable wellness.
(470) 431-4916 View (470) 431-4916
Photo of Angela Mendez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marietta, GA
Angela Mendez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
Why therapy? There are many answers to this question. It's a question I will ask when we first begin and you may or may not fully know the answer. If you are unsure at first, that’s okay. I promise we will figure it out together and by the end of our work you will have discovered why therapy was exactly what you needed in this moment of your life. And if you come to me knowing exactly what you need and why therapy is the way forward, I promise we will work very hard together so that you achieve what you desire.
Why therapy? There are many answers to this question. It's a question I will ask when we first begin and you may or may not fully know the answer. If you are unsure at first, that’s okay. I promise we will figure it out together and by the end of our work you will have discovered why therapy was exactly what you needed in this moment of your life. And if you come to me knowing exactly what you need and why therapy is the way forward, I promise we will work very hard together so that you achieve what you desire.
(470) 988-9634 View (470) 988-9634
Photo of Jaslyn Bailey - Attento Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marietta, GA
Jaslyn Bailey - Attento Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, G
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Jaslyn Bailey, LCSW is the Founder of Journeying Beyond Measure, which provides therapeutic coaching virtually. Jaslyn’s therapeutic style provides support and counseling for clients to effectively address personal life challenges; combining scientifically proven modalities with mindfulness and holistic research offering a highly personalized approach for each client. Jaslyn provides tailored services for those identifying as Queer or Person of Color or Woman seeking coaching with a therapeutic touch as well as co-facilitates groups with Therapy for QPoC.
Jaslyn Bailey, LCSW is the Founder of Journeying Beyond Measure, which provides therapeutic coaching virtually. Jaslyn’s therapeutic style provides support and counseling for clients to effectively address personal life challenges; combining scientifically proven modalities with mindfulness and holistic research offering a highly personalized approach for each client. Jaslyn provides tailored services for those identifying as Queer or Person of Color or Woman seeking coaching with a therapeutic touch as well as co-facilitates groups with Therapy for QPoC.
(404) 882-6544 View (404) 882-6544
Photo of SAP Evaluations, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Marietta, GA
SAP Evaluations
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II, SAP
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I provide psychological testing and evaluation services to truck drivers and safety sensitive employees that need to complete a SAP Evaluation. Whether the violation was for drug abuse or alcohol use I will be able to help you complete the return to duty process. I offer flexible hours and offer virtual telehealth appointments. You will be able to complete your evaluation from home or work from your phone or laptop. If you are willing to commit to meeting your requirements for the SAP Program, I am confident that I can help you so you can get back to work and provide for yourself and your family.
I provide psychological testing and evaluation services to truck drivers and safety sensitive employees that need to complete a SAP Evaluation. Whether the violation was for drug abuse or alcohol use I will be able to help you complete the return to duty process. I offer flexible hours and offer virtual telehealth appointments. You will be able to complete your evaluation from home or work from your phone or laptop. If you are willing to commit to meeting your requirements for the SAP Program, I am confident that I can help you so you can get back to work and provide for yourself and your family.
(770) 285-0215 View (770) 285-0215
Photo of Mary Frances Pierce, Counselor in Marietta, GA
Mary Frances Pierce
Counselor, MS, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
I strongly believe in highlighting the inherent resilience found in every individual, guiding clients to understand that anxiety does not define their identity. My specialization lies in supporting individuals who struggle to articulate their thoughts and overcome self-doubt, recognizing that unaddressed emotional pain and anxiety can manifest in various ways. Whether you're a child or an adult, I'm here to support you on this journey of growth and healing.
I strongly believe in highlighting the inherent resilience found in every individual, guiding clients to understand that anxiety does not define their identity. My specialization lies in supporting individuals who struggle to articulate their thoughts and overcome self-doubt, recognizing that unaddressed emotional pain and anxiety can manifest in various ways. Whether you're a child or an adult, I'm here to support you on this journey of growth and healing.
(404) 404-3580 View (404) 404-3580

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Marietta, GA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Marietta, GA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
67% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Marietta, GA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Marietta?

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.