Therapists in Poulsbo, WA

Photo of Brian Whelan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Poulsbo, WA
Brian Whelan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
We have all faced storms in our lives. Yet, our shared humanity and God's unconditional love form the foundation of a counseling relationship built on respect, openness, and hope, regardless of background or beliefs. The degree to which faith influences our professional relationship depends on your thoughts and comfort zone, but you will always have an advocate in me. We will work together to develop a safe, honest, and healing environment that facilitates your growth and wholeness. Over the course of 40 years of walking with God, I have learned that I am no less broken than any other human being. See Gateway Counseling, Poulsbo.
We have all faced storms in our lives. Yet, our shared humanity and God's unconditional love form the foundation of a counseling relationship built on respect, openness, and hope, regardless of background or beliefs. The degree to which faith influences our professional relationship depends on your thoughts and comfort zone, but you will always have an advocate in me. We will work together to develop a safe, honest, and healing environment that facilitates your growth and wholeness. Over the course of 40 years of walking with God, I have learned that I am no less broken than any other human being. See Gateway Counseling, Poulsbo.
(360) 505-0898 View (360) 505-0898
Photo of Cheri McKern, Pre-Licensed Professional in Poulsbo, WA
Cheri McKern
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
My passion is to help all parents create an environment where their kids, whether adopted or biological, with developmental trauma can thrive. I have many years of experience working with traumatized kids and providing support for the parents that love them. I look forward to developing a trusting relationship where we can work together to draw on your own skills, strengths, and abilities to overcome life’s challenges.
My passion is to help all parents create an environment where their kids, whether adopted or biological, with developmental trauma can thrive. I have many years of experience working with traumatized kids and providing support for the parents that love them. I look forward to developing a trusting relationship where we can work together to draw on your own skills, strengths, and abilities to overcome life’s challenges.
(360) 732-8822 View (360) 732-8822
Photo of Ashlynn McDonald, Pre-Licensed Professional in Poulsbo, WA
Ashlynn McDonald
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I believe therapy is a tool for growth and healing that gives people an opportunity to discover more about themselves in a safe environment. My approach to therapy is holistic, which looks at the whole person. Meeting mental health needs is important. Our physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing are also vital to wholeness and healing. I enjoy working with young people, especially children from hard places. Collaborating with parents as I work with children of all ages is an important part of the therapeutic process.
I believe therapy is a tool for growth and healing that gives people an opportunity to discover more about themselves in a safe environment. My approach to therapy is holistic, which looks at the whole person. Meeting mental health needs is important. Our physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing are also vital to wholeness and healing. I enjoy working with young people, especially children from hard places. Collaborating with parents as I work with children of all ages is an important part of the therapeutic process.
(360) 585-8376 View (360) 585-8376
Photo of Rebekah Verdugo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Rebekah Verdugo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
The clients I have worked with all have one thing in common - they want their life to get better and usually there are multiple things they want to work on. I have guided and supported people of all ages and all walks of life through many struggles including addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, grief and trauma. I have helped them gain knowledge, different perspectives and practical skills which have increased their self-confidence in their abilities. This guidance and support have allowed many of my clients to heal, feel comfortable in their own skin, start living according to their values and create a meaningful life.
The clients I have worked with all have one thing in common - they want their life to get better and usually there are multiple things they want to work on. I have guided and supported people of all ages and all walks of life through many struggles including addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, grief and trauma. I have helped them gain knowledge, different perspectives and practical skills which have increased their self-confidence in their abilities. This guidance and support have allowed many of my clients to heal, feel comfortable in their own skin, start living according to their values and create a meaningful life.
(360) 318-7431 View (360) 318-7431
Photo of Dan Pippinger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Dan Pippinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
You can find healing and change. Your life and your relationships can be restored. Call or send an e-mail for your free consult so we can get you started working toward the changes that you want. I am dedicated to providing a professional and caring relationship that offers you and/or your relationships the opportunity for restoration and growth. Through this commitment, you can find relief for your suffering and access your potential that allows you to experience life in more satisfying and fulfilling ways.
You can find healing and change. Your life and your relationships can be restored. Call or send an e-mail for your free consult so we can get you started working toward the changes that you want. I am dedicated to providing a professional and caring relationship that offers you and/or your relationships the opportunity for restoration and growth. Through this commitment, you can find relief for your suffering and access your potential that allows you to experience life in more satisfying and fulfilling ways.
(360) 329-2909 View (360) 329-2909
Photo of Bayview Counseling and Consulting, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Bayview Counseling and Consulting
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, GMHS, DDS, BDCert
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Need for clarity and improve insight? Counseling is a great avenue to enhance your perspective, improve outlook and renew your spirit. 30 plus years expertise in development, trauma, family systems, parenting, ADHD, couples therapy, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, sexual abuse, trauma, Autism/Aspergers, life transitions and neuroscience, Marcia uses a variety of modalities, depending on need of client(s), CBT, TFCBT, Adult Attachment, Safe Sound Protocol, Family Systems, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Guided Imagery, Anger Management,
Need for clarity and improve insight? Counseling is a great avenue to enhance your perspective, improve outlook and renew your spirit. 30 plus years expertise in development, trauma, family systems, parenting, ADHD, couples therapy, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, sexual abuse, trauma, Autism/Aspergers, life transitions and neuroscience, Marcia uses a variety of modalities, depending on need of client(s), CBT, TFCBT, Adult Attachment, Safe Sound Protocol, Family Systems, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Guided Imagery, Anger Management,
(206) 388-2834 View (206) 388-2834
Photo of Cheri Yadon M.Ed. Lpc LMHC, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Cheri Yadon M.Ed. Lpc LMHC
Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Deep Brain Reorienting I facilitate the client in the discovery of their own personal resolutions. My style of counseling is focused on self-exploration and increasing an individual's level of understanding surrounding their current life circumstances, and their own behaviors and reactions to those situations. I have a desire to understand each client, and utilize my therapeutic skills and knowledge of psychology and human behavior to facilitate growth. My philosophy is that a client is much more inclined to make possible their own solutions, if they are responsible for creating them. I am licensed in Washington, Oregon and Texas.
Deep Brain Reorienting I facilitate the client in the discovery of their own personal resolutions. My style of counseling is focused on self-exploration and increasing an individual's level of understanding surrounding their current life circumstances, and their own behaviors and reactions to those situations. I have a desire to understand each client, and utilize my therapeutic skills and knowledge of psychology and human behavior to facilitate growth. My philosophy is that a client is much more inclined to make possible their own solutions, if they are responsible for creating them. I am licensed in Washington, Oregon and Texas.
(206) 222-7576 View (206) 222-7576
Photo of Linda Anne Holt Ayriss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Linda Anne Holt Ayriss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate and art therapist, I treat children, adolescents, couples and families in a collaborative process to explore concerns and challenges that have arisen in their lives. I work from a strength-based, family oriented perspective. I utilize opportunities to reframe negative family dynamics and emphasize positive strengths to find the possibility of hope.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate and art therapist, I treat children, adolescents, couples and families in a collaborative process to explore concerns and challenges that have arisen in their lives. I work from a strength-based, family oriented perspective. I utilize opportunities to reframe negative family dynamics and emphasize positive strengths to find the possibility of hope.
(206) 316-8531 View (206) 316-8531
Photo of Birch Counseling, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Birch Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I know sharing your struggles with someone can be difficult and scary. It takes courage to allow someone to join you in your healing journey. I have experience working in a variety of settings including private practice, community mental health, residential facilities. I have worked with individuals ages 4-87 from a variety of different cultural and religious backgrounds. Issues that I have gained more extensive experience with include: PTSD, Anxiety, Fear, Anger, Relationship Problems, Impulsiveness, Depression, Hopelessness, Grief, Loss, Self-esteem, Substance Abuse.
I know sharing your struggles with someone can be difficult and scary. It takes courage to allow someone to join you in your healing journey. I have experience working in a variety of settings including private practice, community mental health, residential facilities. I have worked with individuals ages 4-87 from a variety of different cultural and religious backgrounds. Issues that I have gained more extensive experience with include: PTSD, Anxiety, Fear, Anger, Relationship Problems, Impulsiveness, Depression, Hopelessness, Grief, Loss, Self-esteem, Substance Abuse.
(206) 504-3383 View (206) 504-3383
Photo of Lauren Hayes, Psychologist in Poulsbo, WA
Lauren Hayes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
My focus in therapy is on helping you create a life that you want to be present for, whatever that means to you. If you don't know, that's ok too (and you're in good company). We can figure it out together. I emphasize a nonjudgmental approach, and we work to both understand and change unhelpful patterns and help you learn to accept yourself just as you are. I work from a feminist perspective with all clients, and then we decide together what other techniques it would be helpful to incorporate. These commonly include cognitive-behavioral skills, mindfulness, self-compassion, validation, somatic techniques, and informal parts work.
My focus in therapy is on helping you create a life that you want to be present for, whatever that means to you. If you don't know, that's ok too (and you're in good company). We can figure it out together. I emphasize a nonjudgmental approach, and we work to both understand and change unhelpful patterns and help you learn to accept yourself just as you are. I work from a feminist perspective with all clients, and then we decide together what other techniques it would be helpful to incorporate. These commonly include cognitive-behavioral skills, mindfulness, self-compassion, validation, somatic techniques, and informal parts work.
(360) 531-6577 View (360) 531-6577
Photo of Maia E Jacoby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Maia E Jacoby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
— Accepting new clients — My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your needs. Healing is not a linear journey, my hope is for us to work collaboratively to find the path that works for you. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to the healing process. I am eclectic in my approach, utilizing evidence-based practices and our own curiosity to explore the challenges you are facing.
— Accepting new clients — My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your needs. Healing is not a linear journey, my hope is for us to work collaboratively to find the path that works for you. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to the healing process. I am eclectic in my approach, utilizing evidence-based practices and our own curiosity to explore the challenges you are facing.
(360) 230-5978 View (360) 230-5978
Photo of Darcy M Allbee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Darcy M Allbee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , SUDP , EMDR
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Specializing in Trauma/PTSD/EMDR Therapy.....I understand life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma or any other personal struggles, you've chosen to prioritize your mental health and that's something to be proud of. I am trauma-focused and provide you with a non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings so we can work together towards understanding, healing and positive growth.
Specializing in Trauma/PTSD/EMDR Therapy.....I understand life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma or any other personal struggles, you've chosen to prioritize your mental health and that's something to be proud of. I am trauma-focused and provide you with a non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings so we can work together towards understanding, healing and positive growth.
(360) 217-9116 View (360) 217-9116
Photo of Myrna L Hill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Myrna L Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
If you are an individual with more stress in your life than you can handle well, I can help you identify the best path forward. Whether your stress is a long-standing issue that needs to be resolved, or a short-term situation that you need support to navigated - getting to competent and confident is possible. When your life is out of balance it affects all aspects - home, work, social life and your future. I can help you move from uncertainty and overwhelm to confident and calm.
If you are an individual with more stress in your life than you can handle well, I can help you identify the best path forward. Whether your stress is a long-standing issue that needs to be resolved, or a short-term situation that you need support to navigated - getting to competent and confident is possible. When your life is out of balance it affects all aspects - home, work, social life and your future. I can help you move from uncertainty and overwhelm to confident and calm.
(360) 347-2506 View (360) 347-2506
Photo of Mia Jamison, Pre-Licensed Professional in Poulsbo, WA
Mia Jamison
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I believe suffering revolves around burdensome ideals, fantasies, obsessions and problems in and of the world. These can stem from a mental, emotional, physical and/or spiritual tether. A disquieted heart requires a space to move in feeling and voice. The goal may be to get through the day or get through this trying season. I believe this is due to the will to live, breathe and be at peace within the unknown. Ultimately, a heart in mourning or fear desires to hope for a better day and tomorrow.
I believe suffering revolves around burdensome ideals, fantasies, obsessions and problems in and of the world. These can stem from a mental, emotional, physical and/or spiritual tether. A disquieted heart requires a space to move in feeling and voice. The goal may be to get through the day or get through this trying season. I believe this is due to the will to live, breathe and be at peace within the unknown. Ultimately, a heart in mourning or fear desires to hope for a better day and tomorrow.
(360) 845-1295 View (360) 845-1295
Photo of Hanna Doyle, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Hanna Doyle
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
At Within Counseling, I offer holistic mental health care rooted in empirically supported treatment, client-centered care, and the recognition of the individual’s unique human experience. I encourage you to openly and freely express yourself, without judgment. We work collaboratively to identify your areas of needed growth and create a plan to help you obtain wellness in all areas of your life. Together we create knowledge, understanding, and awareness of who you are and who you want to be. Through conversation, skill development, and genuine, intentional listening, your therapeutic goals will come to fruition.
At Within Counseling, I offer holistic mental health care rooted in empirically supported treatment, client-centered care, and the recognition of the individual’s unique human experience. I encourage you to openly and freely express yourself, without judgment. We work collaboratively to identify your areas of needed growth and create a plan to help you obtain wellness in all areas of your life. Together we create knowledge, understanding, and awareness of who you are and who you want to be. Through conversation, skill development, and genuine, intentional listening, your therapeutic goals will come to fruition.
(360) 641-7687 View (360) 641-7687
Photo of Jettson Davis, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Jettson Davis
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Do you keep betraying your self despite your intentions? Do you feel that you react to situation before you have time to think? Together we can work at discovering the root causes of your struggles and through this understanding break old patterns and find better ways of being in your life. My approach is rooted in existential-analysis which is a therapeutic approach which is unique in that it first strives to understand, in depth, the symptoms causing your suffering and through this understanding help you to begin moving forward in a more meaningful way.
Do you keep betraying your self despite your intentions? Do you feel that you react to situation before you have time to think? Together we can work at discovering the root causes of your struggles and through this understanding break old patterns and find better ways of being in your life. My approach is rooted in existential-analysis which is a therapeutic approach which is unique in that it first strives to understand, in depth, the symptoms causing your suffering and through this understanding help you to begin moving forward in a more meaningful way.
(206) 278-3461 View (206) 278-3461
Photo of Shelley B White, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Shelley B White
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
Asking for help and finding the support you need is a courageous act and I applaud you for beginning, or returning to, a healing path. Having been in the mental health field for over 30 years, I am certain there is a path of healing for those who want to change their lives. I'd be honored to walk that path with you. ​
Asking for help and finding the support you need is a courageous act and I applaud you for beginning, or returning to, a healing path. Having been in the mental health field for over 30 years, I am certain there is a path of healing for those who want to change their lives. I'd be honored to walk that path with you. ​
(360) 529-4168 View (360) 529-4168
Photo of William Krutch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
William Krutch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
My job as a therapist is to help you find solutions to problems that are limiting your enjoyment of life. I utilize cognitive therapy which has a "here and now" focus and includes a skill-set which will help you examine and let go of negative self-concepts and achieve the goals that are important to you. My goal is to provide a supportive environment in which you will be able to come to terms with past and present problems and adopt strategies that will reduce feelings of anger, depression and anxiety.
My job as a therapist is to help you find solutions to problems that are limiting your enjoyment of life. I utilize cognitive therapy which has a "here and now" focus and includes a skill-set which will help you examine and let go of negative self-concepts and achieve the goals that are important to you. My goal is to provide a supportive environment in which you will be able to come to terms with past and present problems and adopt strategies that will reduce feelings of anger, depression and anxiety.
(360) 797-5995 View (360) 797-5995
Photo of Marlaina Anderson, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Marlaina Anderson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
When we struggle with depression, anxiety, pain from the past, or traumatic stress, our relationships struggle too. Often the pain experienced in relationships with our loved ones is what drives us to find relief and solutions from the disconnect and disruption we are in the midst of. We don't just want to feel better, we want to be better: Better to ourselves, better to those we love. Engaging in therapy and neurofeedback is about looking for the solutions that will enable us to move beyond the obstacles and into the connections we really desire.
When we struggle with depression, anxiety, pain from the past, or traumatic stress, our relationships struggle too. Often the pain experienced in relationships with our loved ones is what drives us to find relief and solutions from the disconnect and disruption we are in the midst of. We don't just want to feel better, we want to be better: Better to ourselves, better to those we love. Engaging in therapy and neurofeedback is about looking for the solutions that will enable us to move beyond the obstacles and into the connections we really desire.
(206) 429-8096 View (206) 429-8096
Photo of Dr. Brittany Canfield, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Dr. Brittany Canfield
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
I provide trauma-informed integrative care to individuals with a history of trauma, childhood trauma, neglect, and/or abuse, PTSD, C-PTSD, traumatic grief, and intergenerational trauma. As a whole, I work with individuals who come into therapy with a specific goal to address anxiety, mood, or ADHD symptoms to improve daily functioning. During our work, we often find that there is an undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or unattended history of trauma that compounds mental health symptoms and overall functioning. We work to address symptoms and stabilize functioning through evidence-based interventions, along with process-based therapy.
I provide trauma-informed integrative care to individuals with a history of trauma, childhood trauma, neglect, and/or abuse, PTSD, C-PTSD, traumatic grief, and intergenerational trauma. As a whole, I work with individuals who come into therapy with a specific goal to address anxiety, mood, or ADHD symptoms to improve daily functioning. During our work, we often find that there is an undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or unattended history of trauma that compounds mental health symptoms and overall functioning. We work to address symptoms and stabilize functioning through evidence-based interventions, along with process-based therapy.
(360) 516-4828 View (360) 516-4828

See more therapy options for Poulsbo

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Poulsbo, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Poulsbo, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
70% Grief
68% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Premera
52% Regence
47% Aetna

How Therapists in Poulsbo, WA see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Poulsbo?

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.