Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of Dr Joan Weathersbee Ellason PhD LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Dr Joan Weathersbee Ellason PhD LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
My primary goal is to help people achieve their highest potential and purpose in life, with the freedom to be who they were meant to be. Having worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 3 decades, it is my dedicated honor to be able to help people grow and heal both emotionally and spiritually. I have published a sound, innovative approach to healing and recovery. More information is available at www.drjwe.com and drjoanweathersbee.com Best way to reach me is by phone.
My primary goal is to help people achieve their highest potential and purpose in life, with the freedom to be who they were meant to be. Having worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 3 decades, it is my dedicated honor to be able to help people grow and heal both emotionally and spiritually. I have published a sound, innovative approach to healing and recovery. More information is available at www.drjwe.com and drjoanweathersbee.com Best way to reach me is by phone.
(469) 529-8969 View (469) 529-8969
Photo of Sara Ogundipe, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plano, TX
Sara Ogundipe
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Sara is a Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate and has earned a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health. Before joining the team, Sara was a registered behavioral technician within the ABA community working with children, adults, and families. She has an established history of philanthropy, community service, and clinical mental healthcare as she has worked and volunteered with various organizations throughout her years of experience. Sara’s knowledge and compassion provides a safe and effective means to achieve individual aspirations. Sara is accepting new clients, with day, evening, and weekend appointments available.
Sara is a Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate and has earned a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health. Before joining the team, Sara was a registered behavioral technician within the ABA community working with children, adults, and families. She has an established history of philanthropy, community service, and clinical mental healthcare as she has worked and volunteered with various organizations throughout her years of experience. Sara’s knowledge and compassion provides a safe and effective means to achieve individual aspirations. Sara is accepting new clients, with day, evening, and weekend appointments available.
(972) 750-4785 View (972) 750-4785
Photo of NDCBF, Pastoral Counselor in Plano, TX
NDCBF
Pastoral Counselor, MABC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Has provided pastoral counseling to members of our congregation for more than twenty years
Has provided pastoral counseling to members of our congregation for more than twenty years
(972) 372-0214 x9737 View (972) 372-0214 x9737
Photo of Helen E Chalmers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Helen E Chalmers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
You don't feel like yourself, and haven't for a while. You're looking for someone to talk to who will really listen to you. I will help you to identify what is bothering you, and together we can come up with a plan to help you make the changes you want. I am relaxed and easy to talk to, while still helping you meet your goals. I will help you get rid of thoughts or behaviors that are troubling you. I provide a warm, safe environment for individuals seeking growth and change.
You don't feel like yourself, and haven't for a while. You're looking for someone to talk to who will really listen to you. I will help you to identify what is bothering you, and together we can come up with a plan to help you make the changes you want. I am relaxed and easy to talk to, while still helping you meet your goals. I will help you get rid of thoughts or behaviors that are troubling you. I provide a warm, safe environment for individuals seeking growth and change.
(972) 372-0952 View (972) 372-0952
Photo of Megan Pardy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Megan Pardy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I believe that good relationships make the difference between surviving and thriving. I am passionate about helping you to create relationships in your life that help you to thrive. Whether that relationship is with your partner/ spouse, mother, child, sister, or even yourself, my role is to facilitate communication and understanding in order for those relationships to be what you envision. I work with individuals, families, and couples who desire to work as a team to create the change you want to see.
I believe that good relationships make the difference between surviving and thriving. I am passionate about helping you to create relationships in your life that help you to thrive. Whether that relationship is with your partner/ spouse, mother, child, sister, or even yourself, my role is to facilitate communication and understanding in order for those relationships to be what you envision. I work with individuals, families, and couples who desire to work as a team to create the change you want to see.
(972) 608-3092 View (972) 608-3092
Photo of Jodi McKee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jodi McKee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, ATR-BC, MBA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I typically work with clients who appreciate and need a creative therapeutic space that is safe, warm, connected, deeply reflective, and exploratory. I work extensively with clients in helping professions (healthcare workers, teachers, therapists) as well as the LGBTQIA community.
I typically work with clients who appreciate and need a creative therapeutic space that is safe, warm, connected, deeply reflective, and exploratory. I work extensively with clients in helping professions (healthcare workers, teachers, therapists) as well as the LGBTQIA community.
(214) 225-4381 View (214) 225-4381
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 Eryn E Hicker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Eryn E Hicker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
I am EMDR certified. We've all experienced ups and downs, of life, as the ocean we navigate through ebbs and flows. We may be in the same ocean of chaos around us, but out boats are all crafted differently. Some surf through waves in their expensive, privileged Yachts, and some of us are barely keeping afloat in our tattered paddle boats. No matter your type of boat, we all get tossed into the water from time to time. Don't let the waves flood you. Learn to keep your head above the waves, and eventually build up ability to surf over those rough waves with confidence.
I am EMDR certified. We've all experienced ups and downs, of life, as the ocean we navigate through ebbs and flows. We may be in the same ocean of chaos around us, but out boats are all crafted differently. Some surf through waves in their expensive, privileged Yachts, and some of us are barely keeping afloat in our tattered paddle boats. No matter your type of boat, we all get tossed into the water from time to time. Don't let the waves flood you. Learn to keep your head above the waves, and eventually build up ability to surf over those rough waves with confidence.
(214) 380-1431 View (214) 380-1431
Photo of Jodi Payson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jodi Payson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Practice is accepting new clients at this time. Counseling begins with having the courage to take the first step toward change. Jodi's initial focus is to provide a safe, trusting environment to explore avenues of growth and development. Using a combination of techniques and activities, she strives to meet the individual needs of her clients. Jodi's experiences within the counseling field have allowed her to work in a variety of settings helping clients of diverse backgrounds, ages, and presenting concerns. Jodi earned a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Oklahoma and her M.S. in Counseling at Southern Methodist University.
Practice is accepting new clients at this time. Counseling begins with having the courage to take the first step toward change. Jodi's initial focus is to provide a safe, trusting environment to explore avenues of growth and development. Using a combination of techniques and activities, she strives to meet the individual needs of her clients. Jodi's experiences within the counseling field have allowed her to work in a variety of settings helping clients of diverse backgrounds, ages, and presenting concerns. Jodi earned a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Oklahoma and her M.S. in Counseling at Southern Methodist University.
(972) 845-5554 View (972) 845-5554
Photo of Natalie Benedetto, Psychologist in Plano, TX
Natalie Benedetto
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Many, if not all, of us experience periods of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and burdened by life's demands, responsibilities, and even positive events like beginning a new job or getting married. You don't have to go through hard times alone, and while I always encourage people to reach out to friends and family for support, sometimes their advice and cheerleading is not enough. Therapy can help you through these hard times. Successful therapy allows you to live a more fulfilling life, accomplish your goals, and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
Many, if not all, of us experience periods of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and burdened by life's demands, responsibilities, and even positive events like beginning a new job or getting married. You don't have to go through hard times alone, and while I always encourage people to reach out to friends and family for support, sometimes their advice and cheerleading is not enough. Therapy can help you through these hard times. Successful therapy allows you to live a more fulfilling life, accomplish your goals, and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
(469) 986-5595 View (469) 986-5595
Photo of Cheryl R Mesikano Tyler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Cheryl R Mesikano Tyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCDC, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
As a clinician, I work with individual adult clients in addressing a variety of issues (e.g. mood concerns, communication issues, anger management, emotion regulation, domestic violence, other past abuse, career counseling, etc.) I assist in addressing Depression, Anxiety, Self-awareness, Substance Use/Addictions, etc. I hold a Masters in Counseling Psychology and a Masters & Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. As an Industrial-Organizational Consultant, I work with individuals & businesses contingent on specific needs including Mergers & Acquisitions, Leadership coaching, Retention, Training, Employee engagement, & more.
As a clinician, I work with individual adult clients in addressing a variety of issues (e.g. mood concerns, communication issues, anger management, emotion regulation, domestic violence, other past abuse, career counseling, etc.) I assist in addressing Depression, Anxiety, Self-awareness, Substance Use/Addictions, etc. I hold a Masters in Counseling Psychology and a Masters & Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. As an Industrial-Organizational Consultant, I work with individuals & businesses contingent on specific needs including Mergers & Acquisitions, Leadership coaching, Retention, Training, Employee engagement, & more.
(469) 754-8298 View (469) 754-8298
Photo of Dr. Sean Stokes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Dr. Sean Stokes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Greetings! I am Dr. Stokes, and over the past 25+ years I have worked with clients seeking help with their relationships, men who struggle with pornography issues, anger issues and just feeling "lost," and clients dealing with anxiety. Because finances are the number one cause of stress, I have recently added Financial Therapy & Financial Coaching to my skill set. I believe in providing "how to" skills so you feel more confident to handle whatever life throws at you. Clients often describe me as "straight to the point" and "action-oriented."
Greetings! I am Dr. Stokes, and over the past 25+ years I have worked with clients seeking help with their relationships, men who struggle with pornography issues, anger issues and just feeling "lost," and clients dealing with anxiety. Because finances are the number one cause of stress, I have recently added Financial Therapy & Financial Coaching to my skill set. I believe in providing "how to" skills so you feel more confident to handle whatever life throws at you. Clients often describe me as "straight to the point" and "action-oriented."
(940) 202-7722 View (940) 202-7722
Photo of Dwana R Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Dwana R Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Empowering you to become "The Best Possible You" is my ultimate goal. Life is full of challenges, disappointments and successes. How you process these experiences may impact your quality of life. Do you embrace a challenge, learn from mistakes and celebrate success; or do you retreat from a challenge, beat yourself up over mistakes and discount your successes? While I do not purport to be able to change difficult situations from the past, I will partner with you in understanding and addressing current life issues in a way that allows you to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and celebrate success.
Empowering you to become "The Best Possible You" is my ultimate goal. Life is full of challenges, disappointments and successes. How you process these experiences may impact your quality of life. Do you embrace a challenge, learn from mistakes and celebrate success; or do you retreat from a challenge, beat yourself up over mistakes and discount your successes? While I do not purport to be able to change difficult situations from the past, I will partner with you in understanding and addressing current life issues in a way that allows you to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and celebrate success.
(469) 804-6195 View (469) 804-6195
Photo of Lori Michele Kennedy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Lori Michele Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, Owner
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! What makes us different is a dedication to combining traditional talk therapy with creative arts, play and experiential activities. Our clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through art, sand and other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. We love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! What makes us different is a dedication to combining traditional talk therapy with creative arts, play and experiential activities. Our clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through art, sand and other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. We love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
(972) 362-1399 View (972) 362-1399
Photo of Ryan Eberst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Ryan Eberst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RFPT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessions, or other symptoms but are uncertain as to why you continue to struggle? Do you find yourself excited by a new relationship or work situation only to find yourself repeating similar patterns again? Maybe the stresses of daily living are getting to you and need better ways of coping, but are unsure where to start. Or perhaps you are generally dissatisfied with your life, but unsure about what in particular is getting to you.
Do you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, obsessions, or other symptoms but are uncertain as to why you continue to struggle? Do you find yourself excited by a new relationship or work situation only to find yourself repeating similar patterns again? Maybe the stresses of daily living are getting to you and need better ways of coping, but are unsure where to start. Or perhaps you are generally dissatisfied with your life, but unsure about what in particular is getting to you.
(972) 843-9743 View (972) 843-9743
Photo of Donna P. Xu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Donna P. Xu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I hold a masters in science in psychology with the specialty of marriage, individual, and family therapy. I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I hold a masters in science in psychology with the specialty of marriage, individual, and family therapy. I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(979) 399-5929 View (979) 399-5929
Photo of Ba Bunansa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Ba Bunansa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BC TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Knowing ourselves can be tough. Accepting and loving ourselves? Even tougher. So if you’re struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, understanding your identity, or navigating relationships with loved ones who may or may not accept you for who you are – well, you definitely aren’t alone! As a teen and even into adulthood, there can be a lot of stumbling blocks on the path toward celebrating who you really are. It can be a challenging journey… But the good news? It’s not a journey you need to take by yourself. You can find support and guidance along the way. And it can all feel a lot easier than it might right now.
Knowing ourselves can be tough. Accepting and loving ourselves? Even tougher. So if you’re struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, understanding your identity, or navigating relationships with loved ones who may or may not accept you for who you are – well, you definitely aren’t alone! As a teen and even into adulthood, there can be a lot of stumbling blocks on the path toward celebrating who you really are. It can be a challenging journey… But the good news? It’s not a journey you need to take by yourself. You can find support and guidance along the way. And it can all feel a lot easier than it might right now.
(214) 760-6963 View (214) 760-6963
Photo of Mehik Malik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Mehik Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I also have experience in treating substance abuse, addiction, and anger issues. It brings me great satisfaction to work with you as you navigate through difficult life transitions. I meet you where you are on your journey and collaborate with you to improve your coping skills. Together, we work on boosting your self-esteem, empowering you to feel confident in making good decisions for yourself.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I also have experience in treating substance abuse, addiction, and anger issues. It brings me great satisfaction to work with you as you navigate through difficult life transitions. I meet you where you are on your journey and collaborate with you to improve your coping skills. Together, we work on boosting your self-esteem, empowering you to feel confident in making good decisions for yourself.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Allie Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Allie Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
I use a blend of psychodynamic, relational, and skills-based therapies to support clients in navigating life stressors, difficult emotions, and relationships. I work with clients to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in warmth, compassion and trust, and I love to witness my clients connecting with themselves more deeply and attuning to their inner-knowing to create change in their lives. I believe that we all need support, and in this process I value the use of creativity and humor.
I use a blend of psychodynamic, relational, and skills-based therapies to support clients in navigating life stressors, difficult emotions, and relationships. I work with clients to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in warmth, compassion and trust, and I love to witness my clients connecting with themselves more deeply and attuning to their inner-knowing to create change in their lives. I believe that we all need support, and in this process I value the use of creativity and humor.
(214) 506-2903 View (214) 506-2903
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:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% BlueCross and BlueShield

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.