Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of Mika Sherman de Moraes, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Mika Sherman de Moraes
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025  (Online Only)
My philosophy centers on making therapy all about YOU! I believes that your personal growth, challenges, and life experiences take precedence.Your growth, your challenges, and your experiences shape you as a person and through therapy you should deepen your understanding of self and the world around you. I specialize in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, grief, and more. My approach centers around a client-centered model, integrating therapeutic techniques tailored to your individual needs.
My philosophy centers on making therapy all about YOU! I believes that your personal growth, challenges, and life experiences take precedence.Your growth, your challenges, and your experiences shape you as a person and through therapy you should deepen your understanding of self and the world around you. I specialize in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, grief, and more. My approach centers around a client-centered model, integrating therapeutic techniques tailored to your individual needs.
(469) 217-6174 View (469) 217-6174
Photo of Kathy Prial, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Kathy Prial
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Need help and want someone to talk to? I have the counseling, professional, and life experience that can help you through your personal, family, relationship and/or work issues. As your counselor, I will provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself and explore the past, present, and future you. I will guide you through the process using counseling techniques which will be personalized to align with your values and to support your goals. I look forward to helping you work through your issues and allow you to move forward with your life!
Need help and want someone to talk to? I have the counseling, professional, and life experience that can help you through your personal, family, relationship and/or work issues. As your counselor, I will provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself and explore the past, present, and future you. I will guide you through the process using counseling techniques which will be personalized to align with your values and to support your goals. I look forward to helping you work through your issues and allow you to move forward with your life!
(469) 336-3267 View (469) 336-3267
Photo of Chris Ostertag, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Chris Ostertag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
Having been a teacher for over 20 years, Chris shares a passion for working with children, adolescents, and their families. She has the experience and interest in supporting individuals with disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, ADHD, and Behavioral Issues. Chris also works with families as they navigate life within their home and school. She has experience working with individuals and groups in grief and crisis. She utilizes a variety of techniques to best serve her client's needs.
Having been a teacher for over 20 years, Chris shares a passion for working with children, adolescents, and their families. She has the experience and interest in supporting individuals with disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities, ADHD, and Behavioral Issues. Chris also works with families as they navigate life within their home and school. She has experience working with individuals and groups in grief and crisis. She utilizes a variety of techniques to best serve her client's needs.
(972) 972-9894 View (972) 972-9894
Photo of Kelley Connell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Kelley Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I have been in private practice for over 26 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 12 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
I have been in private practice for over 26 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 12 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
(972) 532-9535 View (972) 532-9535
Photo of Ekaterina New, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Ekaterina New
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
Hi there! I’m Ekaterina. I believe you have the power to grow, no matter the circumstances. I create a safe space to allow us to learn and explore what is going on in your life. I will help you utilize new approaches to facilitate change. I believe in providing you with a compassionate ear, while providing feedback and encouragement to take action. I hope you and I can find meaning, gain insight, and understanding. We can walk through it together.
Hi there! I’m Ekaterina. I believe you have the power to grow, no matter the circumstances. I create a safe space to allow us to learn and explore what is going on in your life. I will help you utilize new approaches to facilitate change. I believe in providing you with a compassionate ear, while providing feedback and encouragement to take action. I hope you and I can find meaning, gain insight, and understanding. We can walk through it together.
(972) 525-7819 View (972) 525-7819
Photo of Sydnee Jordan, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Sydnee Jordan
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am skilled in providing intensive therapy to adults, couples, and children across various mental health settings. My expertise includes trauma-focused therapy, couples therapy, and resolving family conflict, as well as managing depression, mood disorders, anxiety, sexual abuse and domestic violence survivors. I use an eclectic, client-centered approach and incorporate narrative cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern Univ. Above all, I am a compassionate listener. Together, we can embark on a journey toward a brighter future and healing.
I am skilled in providing intensive therapy to adults, couples, and children across various mental health settings. My expertise includes trauma-focused therapy, couples therapy, and resolving family conflict, as well as managing depression, mood disorders, anxiety, sexual abuse and domestic violence survivors. I use an eclectic, client-centered approach and incorporate narrative cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern Univ. Above all, I am a compassionate listener. Together, we can embark on a journey toward a brighter future and healing.
(469) 202-9958 View (469) 202-9958
Photo of Rachel Oppenheimer, Psychologist in Plano, TX
Rachel Oppenheimer
Psychologist, PsyD, LSSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals impacted by autism spectrum and executive functioning disorders. My aim is to help clients with social skills, self-esteem, insight, perspective taking, and increased quality of life. I use evidence based techniques along with warmth, empathy, and a collaborative and strengths based approach.
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals impacted by autism spectrum and executive functioning disorders. My aim is to help clients with social skills, self-esteem, insight, perspective taking, and increased quality of life. I use evidence based techniques along with warmth, empathy, and a collaborative and strengths based approach.
(469) 481-1341 View (469) 481-1341
Photo of Ketra Young-Ariyo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Ketra Young-Ariyo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NPT-C
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75086  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with issues related to anxiety, work/life balance, marital conflict or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change.
Are you struggling with issues related to anxiety, work/life balance, marital conflict or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change.
(214) 441-6513 View (214) 441-6513
Photo of Donald James Bright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Donald James Bright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
Providence counseling is a counseling service dedicated to assisting people in gaining the insight necessary to make the changes in there lives required to overcome the difficulties that hinder their personal, relationship and career development. Providence Counseling integrates compassion, hopefulness, and counseling techniques to offer guidance and direction for people seeking to achieve emotional, physical, moral, educational, spiritual and career related development and adjustment for more effective living and a brighter future. Counseling is conducted through individual and group sessions in which counselor and client/clients meet weekly for approximately one hour.
Providence counseling is a counseling service dedicated to assisting people in gaining the insight necessary to make the changes in there lives required to overcome the difficulties that hinder their personal, relationship and career development. Providence Counseling integrates compassion, hopefulness, and counseling techniques to offer guidance and direction for people seeking to achieve emotional, physical, moral, educational, spiritual and career related development and adjustment for more effective living and a brighter future. Counseling is conducted through individual and group sessions in which counselor and client/clients meet weekly for approximately one hour.
(214) 995-4550 View (214) 995-4550
Photo of Bianca E Ramirez, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Bianca E Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Feeling stuck in negative cycles, battling the ripple effects of trauma, or recognizing recurring patterns? You're not alone, and you've taken a significant step by acknowledging your desire to heal and find relief. I believe in creating a personalized and integrative approach tailored specifically to you because, let's face it, one size definitely doesn't fit all when it comes to therapy. Together, we'll journey through your unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs, finding new ways to navigate life's complexities.
Feeling stuck in negative cycles, battling the ripple effects of trauma, or recognizing recurring patterns? You're not alone, and you've taken a significant step by acknowledging your desire to heal and find relief. I believe in creating a personalized and integrative approach tailored specifically to you because, let's face it, one size definitely doesn't fit all when it comes to therapy. Together, we'll journey through your unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs, finding new ways to navigate life's complexities.
(469) 529-7955 View (469) 529-7955
Photo of Constance Wright, LPC Associate in Plano, TX
Constance Wright
LPC Associate, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025  (Online Only)
I help pre-teens, adolescents, young women (18-25 years-old), and mother-daughter duos with the one thing that never changes in life—change. With change, come challenges we may or may not be prepared for, especially dealing with struggles only young and underrepresented populations can understand. However, I specialize in multicultural counseling specifically for Black and/or Indigenous girls & women with their healing, because I recognize and understand their needs, which is often unaddressed and misunderstood. As a Black/Indigenous woman, I bring a different yet familiar prospective, while you heal and seek solutions with me.
I help pre-teens, adolescents, young women (18-25 years-old), and mother-daughter duos with the one thing that never changes in life—change. With change, come challenges we may or may not be prepared for, especially dealing with struggles only young and underrepresented populations can understand. However, I specialize in multicultural counseling specifically for Black and/or Indigenous girls & women with their healing, because I recognize and understand their needs, which is often unaddressed and misunderstood. As a Black/Indigenous woman, I bring a different yet familiar prospective, while you heal and seek solutions with me.
View
Photo of Bianca Javery, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Plano, TX
Bianca Javery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I work with couples to address communication differences and past hurts that were never fully repaired. Our past experiences often influence how we interact with our partners today. I strive to create a safe space where curiousity, empathy, and genuine connection are at the forefront of therapy as we take the time we need to build a sturdy foundation for change. I see it as my role to acknowledge the complexities of your relationship while providing support as you heal and build a stronger bond for the future.
I work with couples to address communication differences and past hurts that were never fully repaired. Our past experiences often influence how we interact with our partners today. I strive to create a safe space where curiousity, empathy, and genuine connection are at the forefront of therapy as we take the time we need to build a sturdy foundation for change. I see it as my role to acknowledge the complexities of your relationship while providing support as you heal and build a stronger bond for the future.
(972) 645-2411 View (972) 645-2411
Photo of Kylie Fyfe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Kylie Fyfe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
Have you felt all alone? Feeling strong emotions you don’t know how to handle? Felt a sense of sadness or hopelessness that doesn’t seem to end? Are there past events that you haven’t dealt with yet? Are you concerned about how your child is behaving? Have you or your child been struggling with any of the items listed above? Are you struggling with how to help yourself or your child? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, take a breath and know you’re not alone. It’s okay to not be okay, to not have all the answers. We’ve all been there. You have already taken the first step by searching for help, I’m so glad you did!
Have you felt all alone? Feeling strong emotions you don’t know how to handle? Felt a sense of sadness or hopelessness that doesn’t seem to end? Are there past events that you haven’t dealt with yet? Are you concerned about how your child is behaving? Have you or your child been struggling with any of the items listed above? Are you struggling with how to help yourself or your child? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, take a breath and know you’re not alone. It’s okay to not be okay, to not have all the answers. We’ve all been there. You have already taken the first step by searching for help, I’m so glad you did!
(214) 833-8623 View (214) 833-8623
Photo of David Baldwin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
David Baldwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I do Interventions. I help families get their loved one into treatment. Usually, it is the family who has reached their bottom when the intervention takes place. Have you heard it said that "you cant help an addict/alcoholic until he has hit bottom?" Don't believe it! Because when we buy into that idea, it keeps everyone waiting around for some kind of tragedy to occur. Then, the whole family hits a bottom! Sometimes, that crisis is one that can not be fixed. If you are waiting for him to be "ready" that day usually never arrives. Or, if it does, it is usually brief and only lasts a moment.
I do Interventions. I help families get their loved one into treatment. Usually, it is the family who has reached their bottom when the intervention takes place. Have you heard it said that "you cant help an addict/alcoholic until he has hit bottom?" Don't believe it! Because when we buy into that idea, it keeps everyone waiting around for some kind of tragedy to occur. Then, the whole family hits a bottom! Sometimes, that crisis is one that can not be fixed. If you are waiting for him to be "ready" that day usually never arrives. Or, if it does, it is usually brief and only lasts a moment.
(432) 305-0382 View (432) 305-0382
Photo of Maria De La Luz Folkerth, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Maria De La Luz Folkerth
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Hi, hi! My name is Maria and I absolutely adore working with children and teens but I am open to all ages. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced high levels of trauma. In my work, I try to focus on addressing generational cycles of trauma, perfectionism and people pleasing tendencies. I hope to help you gain awareness of your experiences, challenge you to grow, do things you enjoy and build confidence to try new things.
Hi, hi! My name is Maria and I absolutely adore working with children and teens but I am open to all ages. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced high levels of trauma. In my work, I try to focus on addressing generational cycles of trauma, perfectionism and people pleasing tendencies. I hope to help you gain awareness of your experiences, challenge you to grow, do things you enjoy and build confidence to try new things.
(469) 530-3808 View (469) 530-3808
Photo of Adreanne S. Pugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Adreanne S. Pugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
Seeking therapy requires courage, yet it marks the beginning of a journey towards healing and freedom. You'll find encouragement, empowerment, and support here. My goal is to provide services that cultivate change and restore hope. I'm deeply committed to assisting individuals in embracing and thriving in their authenticity and individuality. I offer a welcoming and safe place for personal growth and self-discovery. Remember, you're not alone. There's no need to fear taking the initial step. Let's transform your life together and start healing from within. Your best self awaits you.
Seeking therapy requires courage, yet it marks the beginning of a journey towards healing and freedom. You'll find encouragement, empowerment, and support here. My goal is to provide services that cultivate change and restore hope. I'm deeply committed to assisting individuals in embracing and thriving in their authenticity and individuality. I offer a welcoming and safe place for personal growth and self-discovery. Remember, you're not alone. There's no need to fear taking the initial step. Let's transform your life together and start healing from within. Your best self awaits you.
(469) 537-4301 View (469) 537-4301
Photo of A True You Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
A True You Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Are you running out of options with how to help your teen deal with various stressors stemming from bullying, depression, social anxiety or past trauma? Are you in a troubled marriage and aren't sure if you should stay or leave? If so, I can help. I specialize in helping parents find solutions to problems that their teens might face by providing solution-oriented, evidenced-based techniques that can be used in both the counseling office and at home. I also assist couples in determining what their best options are in a collaborative, supportive, and compassionate manner.
Are you running out of options with how to help your teen deal with various stressors stemming from bullying, depression, social anxiety or past trauma? Are you in a troubled marriage and aren't sure if you should stay or leave? If so, I can help. I specialize in helping parents find solutions to problems that their teens might face by providing solution-oriented, evidenced-based techniques that can be used in both the counseling office and at home. I also assist couples in determining what their best options are in a collaborative, supportive, and compassionate manner.
(949) 397-2483 View (949) 397-2483
Photo of Shlomit Oliel, LPC Associate in Plano, TX
Shlomit Oliel
LPC Associate, MS, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I am an LPC Associate committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life transitions, emotional and behavioral challenges through acceptance, kindness, and empowerment. I am passionate about multicultural competencies and providing a safe and non-judgmental place for a diverse clientele. I recognize my clients' efforts to commit weekly to their mental health. Therapy can be challenging and emotionally draining; thus, I encourage my client to do self-care and be compassionate during this process. There is no more gratifying job than guiding my clients to become stronger, more compassionate, authentic, and whole.
I am an LPC Associate committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life transitions, emotional and behavioral challenges through acceptance, kindness, and empowerment. I am passionate about multicultural competencies and providing a safe and non-judgmental place for a diverse clientele. I recognize my clients' efforts to commit weekly to their mental health. Therapy can be challenging and emotionally draining; thus, I encourage my client to do self-care and be compassionate during this process. There is no more gratifying job than guiding my clients to become stronger, more compassionate, authentic, and whole.
(214) 974-3469 View (214) 974-3469
Photo of Sabrina S Austin, Psychologist in Plano, TX
Sabrina S Austin
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
(972) 702-7245 View (972) 702-7245
Photo of Elsa Yao, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Elsa Yao
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Are you depressed, anxious, feeling numb, or having difficulty staying focused? Do you feel trapped by your emotions and reactions? As a therapist, I aim to help you connect with all parts of yourself to cultivate growth and wholeness. We will work to identify patterns that are no longer working for you and build new ones to improve your quality of life.
Are you depressed, anxious, feeling numb, or having difficulty staying focused? Do you feel trapped by your emotions and reactions? As a therapist, I aim to help you connect with all parts of yourself to cultivate growth and wholeness. We will work to identify patterns that are no longer working for you and build new ones to improve your quality of life.
(214) 319-8545 View (214) 319-8545

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plano, TX

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Plano, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
66% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Plano, TX see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Plano?

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.