Photo of Dr. Sarah Stuchell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28031, NC
Dr. Sarah Stuchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
(949) 337-1360 View (949) 337-1360
Photo of Kara Ewing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Kara Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
"Life's roughest storms prove the strength of our anchors!" With almost 20 years of experience in working with individuals of all ages as well as families, I have taken great pride in helping others recognize their individual strengths to weather the many storms of life. Although I work with all ages, I have a special passion for working with older children and teens and their families. Throughout my career, I have helped parents find the balance of providing support and love coupled with discipline to have healthy, happy relationships with their children and teens.
"Life's roughest storms prove the strength of our anchors!" With almost 20 years of experience in working with individuals of all ages as well as families, I have taken great pride in helping others recognize their individual strengths to weather the many storms of life. Although I work with all ages, I have a special passion for working with older children and teens and their families. Throughout my career, I have helped parents find the balance of providing support and love coupled with discipline to have healthy, happy relationships with their children and teens.
(980) 399-5290 View (980) 399-5290
Photo of Wendyleigh Bodick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Wendyleigh Bodick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Hope. It is essential to our finding our true selves, navigating life's challenges and working through our struggles to find joy and fulfillment. I believe that with hope, all things are possible and I strive to provide a safe, nurturing environment where we can together rediscover the power of Hope and make the powerful changes you want. I have extensive experience working with teenagers and their families as well as adults through a multitude of life transitions, struggles and times of intense emotional turmoil. Together, we can find Hope again and live your best life.
Hope. It is essential to our finding our true selves, navigating life's challenges and working through our struggles to find joy and fulfillment. I believe that with hope, all things are possible and I strive to provide a safe, nurturing environment where we can together rediscover the power of Hope and make the powerful changes you want. I have extensive experience working with teenagers and their families as well as adults through a multitude of life transitions, struggles and times of intense emotional turmoil. Together, we can find Hope again and live your best life.
(704) 912-0224 View (704) 912-0224
Photo of Dazmine O'Neal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Dazmine O'Neal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Every person deserves to be seen, heard, and respected. It is my honor to have the opportunity to provide that to my clients every day. I deeply believe we all have the power to unlock our answers to build a more happy, peaceful, and fulfilled life. I consider it a privilege to partner with clients along that journey. I work with children, teens and adults in a compassionate, safe and therapeutic space to discover their needs and goals. As a team, we will work together to achieve these goals in the most effective, efficient and clinically sound way. We got this together!
Every person deserves to be seen, heard, and respected. It is my honor to have the opportunity to provide that to my clients every day. I deeply believe we all have the power to unlock our answers to build a more happy, peaceful, and fulfilled life. I consider it a privilege to partner with clients along that journey. I work with children, teens and adults in a compassionate, safe and therapeutic space to discover their needs and goals. As a team, we will work together to achieve these goals in the most effective, efficient and clinically sound way. We got this together!
(980) 655-3035 View (980) 655-3035
Photo of Lauren Sussman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Lauren Sussman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I specialize in treating ages 16+ who deal with challenges related to Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Life transitions, Relationships, Attachment, ADHD, Parenting, & Trauma. My background includes 5+ years of experience providing services to children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of settings including higher levels of care. I often work with clients who are struggling with balance, high stress, emotion regulation, and/or boundaries in their lives and I enjoy helping clients figure out what works best for them holistically.
I specialize in treating ages 16+ who deal with challenges related to Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Life transitions, Relationships, Attachment, ADHD, Parenting, & Trauma. My background includes 5+ years of experience providing services to children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of settings including higher levels of care. I often work with clients who are struggling with balance, high stress, emotion regulation, and/or boundaries in their lives and I enjoy helping clients figure out what works best for them holistically.
(980) 270-1574 View (980) 270-1574
Photo of Ryan Clifford, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28031, NC
Ryan Clifford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I believe people can change when they feel truly heard in a safe environment. I work to provide this experience via unconditional positive regard and acceptance. I assist clients in expanding emotional awareness and understanding how our emotions impact our behaviors. I am currently licensed in the North Carolina, Nevada, and Washington. I see client's virtually and in person. My office is located in the Lake Norman - Charlotte, NC area (Cornelius, NC). More info about me at www.integrative-minds.com. I specialize in treating trauma symptoms with EMDR both in person and virtually.
I believe people can change when they feel truly heard in a safe environment. I work to provide this experience via unconditional positive regard and acceptance. I assist clients in expanding emotional awareness and understanding how our emotions impact our behaviors. I am currently licensed in the North Carolina, Nevada, and Washington. I see client's virtually and in person. My office is located in the Lake Norman - Charlotte, NC area (Cornelius, NC). More info about me at www.integrative-minds.com. I specialize in treating trauma symptoms with EMDR both in person and virtually.
(704) 480-3868 View (704) 480-3868
Photo of Jason Leonard Scianno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Jason Leonard Scianno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Available to help now. If you are feeling stuck, depressed, anxious and tried of running in the same old circles, give me a call. My mission is to help you achieve a holistic balance between mind, body and spirit, using traditional talk therapy and holistic approaches. If you are looking to quiet a racing mind, find relief from anxiety, be uplifted from depression, create meaning and purpose in life and/or stop misusing substances as a way to cope with the slings and arrows of life, call me for a 15 minute consult, and check out www.jasonscianno.com.
Available to help now. If you are feeling stuck, depressed, anxious and tried of running in the same old circles, give me a call. My mission is to help you achieve a holistic balance between mind, body and spirit, using traditional talk therapy and holistic approaches. If you are looking to quiet a racing mind, find relief from anxiety, be uplifted from depression, create meaning and purpose in life and/or stop misusing substances as a way to cope with the slings and arrows of life, call me for a 15 minute consult, and check out www.jasonscianno.com.
(704) 893-8771 View (704) 893-8771
Photo of Emily Collier, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28031, NC
Emily Collier
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am passionate about helping individuals works towards finding their own voice and ability to cope with daily life stressors.
Welcome! I am passionate about helping individuals works towards finding their own voice and ability to cope with daily life stressors.
(980) 291-7696 View (980) 291-7696
Photo of Deborah C. Kish, Counselor in 28031, NC
Deborah C. Kish
Counselor, MACC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Many individuals suffer silently when overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or struggle with deeper issues that affect relationships, family, work and daily living. There is hope, acceptance, compassion and healing in therapy. I create a non-judgmental, nurturing, safe space for clients to explore their struggles, process their pain and acquire skills to accomplish set goals. I walk alongside each client to help them regain their power, happiness, peace, confidence and ability to live the life they deserve.
Many individuals suffer silently when overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or struggle with deeper issues that affect relationships, family, work and daily living. There is hope, acceptance, compassion and healing in therapy. I create a non-judgmental, nurturing, safe space for clients to explore their struggles, process their pain and acquire skills to accomplish set goals. I walk alongside each client to help them regain their power, happiness, peace, confidence and ability to live the life they deserve.
(704) 842-3336 View (704) 842-3336
Photo of Christian Beheler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Christian Beheler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Christian Beheler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 4 years of experience in mental health. Christian is passionate about breaking mental health stigmas and normalizing therapy. She specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coping skills, and self esteem Christian is passionate about working with adolescents and adults from all walks of life. Christian realizes her patients are the experts in their life and she wishes to walk along side as they tell their story.
Christian Beheler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 4 years of experience in mental health. Christian is passionate about breaking mental health stigmas and normalizing therapy. She specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coping skills, and self esteem Christian is passionate about working with adolescents and adults from all walks of life. Christian realizes her patients are the experts in their life and she wishes to walk along side as they tell their story.
(980) 575-5103 View (980) 575-5103
Photo of Shaunna Rushing, Counselor in 28031, NC
Shaunna Rushing
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
As a woman and/or mother, it can feel like you are buried underneath the relentless demands of everyone else in your life. It can leave you feeling invisible, angry, & exhausted. It doesn’t have to feel that way - together we can uncover your needs, wants, & desires so you can create a satisfying, fulfilling, and connected life. In therapy, I hold space for you to explore what your needs are, & examine the barriers & relationship patterns that might be keeping you tired & feeling stuck. Together we will develop an understanding of yourself that ultimately empowers you to use your voice & implement the change you need & want.
As a woman and/or mother, it can feel like you are buried underneath the relentless demands of everyone else in your life. It can leave you feeling invisible, angry, & exhausted. It doesn’t have to feel that way - together we can uncover your needs, wants, & desires so you can create a satisfying, fulfilling, and connected life. In therapy, I hold space for you to explore what your needs are, & examine the barriers & relationship patterns that might be keeping you tired & feeling stuck. Together we will develop an understanding of yourself that ultimately empowers you to use your voice & implement the change you need & want.
(980) 404-2672 View (980) 404-2672
Photo of Renee Birch, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28031, NC
Renee Birch
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Whether you are visiting this site for your child or yourself, I'm glad you are here. In life, we all face challenges that can feel like a heavy burden to carry. Counseling may look different for children, teens, and adults however the goals are often the same. Reduce distress, cope more effectively, and find more happiness in life. A specialty of mine is working with individuals with ADHD and Autism. Each person's journey to wellness is different, so I meet each client where they are at providing support and validation. Counseling is a great place to work on understanding yourself, others, and gain helpful coping skills.
Whether you are visiting this site for your child or yourself, I'm glad you are here. In life, we all face challenges that can feel like a heavy burden to carry. Counseling may look different for children, teens, and adults however the goals are often the same. Reduce distress, cope more effectively, and find more happiness in life. A specialty of mine is working with individuals with ADHD and Autism. Each person's journey to wellness is different, so I meet each client where they are at providing support and validation. Counseling is a great place to work on understanding yourself, others, and gain helpful coping skills.
(704) 327-0736 View (704) 327-0736
Photo of Sarah Beth Maier, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28031, NC
Sarah Beth Maier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
We are all faced with a myriad of obstacles, adjustments and stressors throughout our lives. Starting a family and navigating the role of new parent can be one of the biggest. Whether working through the postpartum adjustment, navigating the ever changing role as parent or walking through the many transitions and difficulties of being a child, I work with adults and children to find ways best suited to master these obstacles and surmount life's challenges.
We are all faced with a myriad of obstacles, adjustments and stressors throughout our lives. Starting a family and navigating the role of new parent can be one of the biggest. Whether working through the postpartum adjustment, navigating the ever changing role as parent or walking through the many transitions and difficulties of being a child, I work with adults and children to find ways best suited to master these obstacles and surmount life's challenges.
(704) 727-4349 View (704) 727-4349
Photo of Andrea Hayward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28031, NC
Andrea Hayward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
**IT IS MORE EFFICIENT TO CONTACT ME BY EMAIL AT THIS TIME.** Many challenges may arise in life. It can be made easier if you have a comfortable atmosphere to share & express yourself. You come to therapy to face hard truths & learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth & tact, giving genuine feedback. I listen & support without judgment. I have a passion for helping individuals & families cope with difficulties in their lives. My desire is to help clients experience healing & life change.
**IT IS MORE EFFICIENT TO CONTACT ME BY EMAIL AT THIS TIME.** Many challenges may arise in life. It can be made easier if you have a comfortable atmosphere to share & express yourself. You come to therapy to face hard truths & learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth & tact, giving genuine feedback. I listen & support without judgment. I have a passion for helping individuals & families cope with difficulties in their lives. My desire is to help clients experience healing & life change.
(704) 508-4396 View (704) 508-4396
Photo of Kathy Pendlay, Pre-Licensed Professional in 28031, NC
Kathy Pendlay
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Kathy thoroughly enjoys working with adults, young adults and children. Her focus has been on addressing trauma, low self-esteem, college-related issues, women's issues, chronic health concerns, depression, and life transitional difficulties. Kathy prioritizes mutual connection and respect in a therapeutic relationship. She believes that everyone deserves to have a safe space for personal growth. She also encourages each individual to remember that taking even one small step can create a significant impact.
Kathy thoroughly enjoys working with adults, young adults and children. Her focus has been on addressing trauma, low self-esteem, college-related issues, women's issues, chronic health concerns, depression, and life transitional difficulties. Kathy prioritizes mutual connection and respect in a therapeutic relationship. She believes that everyone deserves to have a safe space for personal growth. She also encourages each individual to remember that taking even one small step can create a significant impact.
(980) 246-2557 View (980) 246-2557
Photo of Inner Renovations Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28031, NC
Inner Renovations Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Starting now, you can improve your mental health and discover what brings out the best version of yourself. Learn Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness and Mindfulness skills. Experience what it feels like to no longer be held back by anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, or issues with identity and relationships. You'll be working with Chanel C. Bowen, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, guided by evidence-based methods, individualized to your unique needs. Your Inner Renovations Project includes counseling/coaching, therapeutic yoga, and mindfulness resources that help you "Develop the Tools for Your Inside Job."
Starting now, you can improve your mental health and discover what brings out the best version of yourself. Learn Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness and Mindfulness skills. Experience what it feels like to no longer be held back by anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, or issues with identity and relationships. You'll be working with Chanel C. Bowen, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, guided by evidence-based methods, individualized to your unique needs. Your Inner Renovations Project includes counseling/coaching, therapeutic yoga, and mindfulness resources that help you "Develop the Tools for Your Inside Job."
(980) 324-3876 View (980) 324-3876
Photo of Iesha Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28031, NC
Iesha Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Iesha Williams is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 6 years of experience in the field of mental health. She is also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA). Iesha enjoys facilitating and supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults with various concerns in their day-to-day life. Iesha specializes in depression, anxiety, and substance use.
Iesha Williams is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 6 years of experience in the field of mental health. She is also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA). Iesha enjoys facilitating and supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults with various concerns in their day-to-day life. Iesha specializes in depression, anxiety, and substance use.
(980) 268-3518 View (980) 268-3518
Photo of Grace C Cascone, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in 28031, NC
Grace C Cascone
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
Hello! My name is Grace Cascone, and I am a therapist at Mindful Beginnings of Lake Norman. I believe in supporting clients through a lens that considers the different environmental contexts that they are a part of. I have experience working with children as young as 6, adolescents, and young adults. I see clients as having an immense potential for growth and believe in prioritizing the relationship between myself and the client.
Hello! My name is Grace Cascone, and I am a therapist at Mindful Beginnings of Lake Norman. I believe in supporting clients through a lens that considers the different environmental contexts that they are a part of. I have experience working with children as young as 6, adolescents, and young adults. I see clients as having an immense potential for growth and believe in prioritizing the relationship between myself and the client.
View
Photo of Elizabeth Boyd, Counselor in 28031, NC
Elizabeth Boyd
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I specialize in working with the neurodiverse community (all ages) and draw from a wealth of experience to provide psycho-education, validation, empathy, and strategies. I hold space for processing the challenges while also working to identify strengths. When working with children, I utilize play therapy to focus on building your child’s understanding of their ADHD brain, equip them with skills to both understand and communicate what they are feeling, improve self-control, and increase their confidence. This often helps reduce the intensity of emotions that can be otherwise felt and expressed in BIG ways!
I specialize in working with the neurodiverse community (all ages) and draw from a wealth of experience to provide psycho-education, validation, empathy, and strategies. I hold space for processing the challenges while also working to identify strengths. When working with children, I utilize play therapy to focus on building your child’s understanding of their ADHD brain, equip them with skills to both understand and communicate what they are feeling, improve self-control, and increase their confidence. This often helps reduce the intensity of emotions that can be otherwise felt and expressed in BIG ways!
(980) 332-2388 View (980) 332-2388
Photo of Pope Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28031, NC
Pope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
At Pope Counseling Center, We believe in helping others through a difficult time or life transition with a non-judgemental stance in a laid back atmosphere. If you are looking to manage emotions, resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, have improved relationships, practice better self care or have a more positive outlook. We have several skilled therapists with a variety of specialties to help you reach your goals.
At Pope Counseling Center, We believe in helping others through a difficult time or life transition with a non-judgemental stance in a laid back atmosphere. If you are looking to manage emotions, resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, have improved relationships, practice better self care or have a more positive outlook. We have several skilled therapists with a variety of specialties to help you reach your goals.
(704) 815-6009 View (704) 815-6009

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28031

200+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in 28031 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
68% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Aetna
57% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 28031 see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28031?

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.