Therapists in New Hanover County, NC
Nicole Merrigan
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401 (Online Only)
Clients who reach out to me are either their worst critic, ready and willing but may lack particular skills, or both. Self-acceptance is a needed foundation. It is important for people to learn to accept themselves and their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, making room for being uncomfortable; while also learning to regulate or change behaviors when it is needed to do so. Whether the issue is depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotion dysregulation, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, or substance use, I have a set of skills that will be helpful.
Clients who reach out to me are either their worst critic, ready and willing but may lack particular skills, or both. Self-acceptance is a needed foundation. It is important for people to learn to accept themselves and their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, making room for being uncomfortable; while also learning to regulate or change behaviors when it is needed to do so. Whether the issue is depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotion dysregulation, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, or substance use, I have a set of skills that will be helpful.
Ashley Eldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
Allison Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429 (Online Only)
I enjoy helping college students, young adults, and teens navigate the overwhelming changes going on in their lives. I’m also passionate about providing neurodiversity-affirming therapy to the Gen-Z population, especially individuals with ADHD and Autism.
I enjoy helping college students, young adults, and teens navigate the overwhelming changes going on in their lives. I’m also passionate about providing neurodiversity-affirming therapy to the Gen-Z population, especially individuals with ADHD and Autism.
Jenny Lynn Vaughn
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403 (Online Only)
My name is Jenny Vaughn and I am a Licensed clinician in the Wilmington area. I specialize in EMDR interventions and work well with trauma, life-adjustments, Anxiety, Depression, and Attachment. In working with me, you will find that I strive to provide a comfortable space for connection and intervention. I find that connecting with my clients is important and the therapeutic relationship should be equally professional and deeply personal.
My name is Jenny Vaughn and I am a Licensed clinician in the Wilmington area. I specialize in EMDR interventions and work well with trauma, life-adjustments, Anxiety, Depression, and Attachment. In working with me, you will find that I strive to provide a comfortable space for connection and intervention. I find that connecting with my clients is important and the therapeutic relationship should be equally professional and deeply personal.
Kelly Moran
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403 (Online Only)
Hi there! I specialize in supporting new moms, anxious and stressed millennials navigating life transitions, and survivors of sexual trauma. My passion lies in empowering individuals to prioritize self-care, discover inner strength, and cultivate resilience in the face of challenges. I love helping moms balancing the challenge of trying to do it all. As a guide through the whirlwind of motherhood, I offer my clients help during the fourth trimester, postpartum anxiety and depression, and the juggling act of work-life balance.
Hi there! I specialize in supporting new moms, anxious and stressed millennials navigating life transitions, and survivors of sexual trauma. My passion lies in empowering individuals to prioritize self-care, discover inner strength, and cultivate resilience in the face of challenges. I love helping moms balancing the challenge of trying to do it all. As a guide through the whirlwind of motherhood, I offer my clients help during the fourth trimester, postpartum anxiety and depression, and the juggling act of work-life balance.
Jeanna Lloyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive- behavioral therapy and family systems theory. I strive to develop an authentic and caring therapeutic relationship in which clients can grow to meet their potential. I have worked in outpatient mental health for over 20 years with a variety of disorders such as depression, grief and loss, ADHD, trauma, anxiety, autism and other mood disorders. My approach to therapy is integrative, collaborative, and individualized. My goal is to help you determine what is causing and maintaining current problems and how to make necessary changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors resulting in greater health and happiness.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive- behavioral therapy and family systems theory. I strive to develop an authentic and caring therapeutic relationship in which clients can grow to meet their potential. I have worked in outpatient mental health for over 20 years with a variety of disorders such as depression, grief and loss, ADHD, trauma, anxiety, autism and other mood disorders. My approach to therapy is integrative, collaborative, and individualized. My goal is to help you determine what is causing and maintaining current problems and how to make necessary changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors resulting in greater health and happiness.
Kerri Leonard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Currently accepting new clients!- - I offer therapy that is collaborative and person centered, providing real life strategies, tools and resources to help you reach your goals. I am passionate about working with clients facing challenges related to depression, anxiety, trauma, stress management and life transitions. My goal is to help clients grow, heal and develop a better understanding of themselves in a comfortable and supportive space.
Currently accepting new clients!- - I offer therapy that is collaborative and person centered, providing real life strategies, tools and resources to help you reach your goals. I am passionate about working with clients facing challenges related to depression, anxiety, trauma, stress management and life transitions. My goal is to help clients grow, heal and develop a better understanding of themselves in a comfortable and supportive space.
Katelyn Currie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
I specialize in helping children who have experienced trauma or traumatic grief, using TFCBT to reduce trauma symptoms experienced by the child with the support of their caregiver. I’m also committed to helping children understand and overcome other life challenges and stressors, such as depression, anxiety, familial separations, grief, poor self-esteem, and difficulties in school. I use an eclectic approach to develop a treatment plan and goals that suit the specific needs of each client while drawing from their intrinsic resiliency and strengths. I also have a training therapy dog to provide comfort and support to clients.
I specialize in helping children who have experienced trauma or traumatic grief, using TFCBT to reduce trauma symptoms experienced by the child with the support of their caregiver. I’m also committed to helping children understand and overcome other life challenges and stressors, such as depression, anxiety, familial separations, grief, poor self-esteem, and difficulties in school. I use an eclectic approach to develop a treatment plan and goals that suit the specific needs of each client while drawing from their intrinsic resiliency and strengths. I also have a training therapy dog to provide comfort and support to clients.
Heike A Steinle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you laying awake at night thinking about what is not working in your life? Maybe you are finding yourself lost, overwhelmed, misunderstood? Stuck in the same patterns and situations, yet unsure how to change? You are not alone. We can all lose ourselves in this life. I believe that people are doing their best and are striving toward healing the only way they know how. The problem can be that what they have always done is no longer working. If you are ready for more peace, happiness, and power in your life, I would be honored to guide you to the best version of yourself.
Are you laying awake at night thinking about what is not working in your life? Maybe you are finding yourself lost, overwhelmed, misunderstood? Stuck in the same patterns and situations, yet unsure how to change? You are not alone. We can all lose ourselves in this life. I believe that people are doing their best and are striving toward healing the only way they know how. The problem can be that what they have always done is no longer working. If you are ready for more peace, happiness, and power in your life, I would be honored to guide you to the best version of yourself.
Katie Baker
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
My desire is to instill hope in clients as they learn to listen to themselves so that they can engage in relationships and work from a place of calm confidence. I believe we all can do this, but some parts of us keep us from living the way we want to live, deep down. These “parts” might have developed from prior relational or family dysfunction or abuse, social and cultural pressures, and the aftermath of such experiences. My passion is to work with clients to identify the parts that, despite their best intentions, block us from experiencing internal peace and full connection with ourselves and with others.
My desire is to instill hope in clients as they learn to listen to themselves so that they can engage in relationships and work from a place of calm confidence. I believe we all can do this, but some parts of us keep us from living the way we want to live, deep down. These “parts” might have developed from prior relational or family dysfunction or abuse, social and cultural pressures, and the aftermath of such experiences. My passion is to work with clients to identify the parts that, despite their best intentions, block us from experiencing internal peace and full connection with ourselves and with others.
Cheryl Maddux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Hi, I'm Cheryl. I have 20+ years of experience as a Clinical Social Worker/therapist. I see therapy as a process of introspection with compassion. Within therapy, one learns to listen and respond with compassion for oneself and others. In therapy, one can develop the ability to expand awareness and be more flexible in making life choices. My specialties include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, relationship issues, gay and lesbian issues, and trauma. I use a blend of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic models and work with individuals, couples and groups.
Hi, I'm Cheryl. I have 20+ years of experience as a Clinical Social Worker/therapist. I see therapy as a process of introspection with compassion. Within therapy, one learns to listen and respond with compassion for oneself and others. In therapy, one can develop the ability to expand awareness and be more flexible in making life choices. My specialties include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, relationship issues, gay and lesbian issues, and trauma. I use a blend of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic models and work with individuals, couples and groups.
15 Second Videos
Ashley Eldridge
Kelly Moran
Heike A Steinle
Scott Koenigsberg
Monique Boyd
Krista Bronisas
Jennifer Shrauger
Evolution Wellness
Christine A Still
Sarah Mooring
Josalin J Hunter
Tina Abraham
Anna Hampton
Rebecca Zumpe
Sarah Pearce
Dana Peterson Dorsett
Kara Tolman
Helene Zahn-Chilberg
Gillian Davis
Isadora Girardi
Caro Bird
Emily Savard Barlas
Mackenzie Quinton
Cemone Frederick
Cayleigh Metcalf
Jess Cooper Ahlum
Megan Best
David Mabry
Eva Church
Hillary Stevens
Lauren Morales
Kasha Sears Howard
Seth Boynton
Mary Engelstatter
David James Bolton
Jeanne Marshall
Holly McKoy
Mercedes McLaughlin
Brittany B Greer
Kristin M Jones
Laura Rippeon
Chloe Hill
Paula Ackermann
Shelley Bunn
Gregg Goodwin
Liza M. Shaw
Leland Counseling Services PLLC
Adam Green
Sarah Hess
Page Rutledge
Lauren Averitt
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401 (Online Only)
*For a quicker response, text 910-610-3199* I really enjoy working with young adults develop skills to manage anxiety and help build self-esteem. I have a passion for trauma work and welcome clients experiencing related difficulties. There are ways to enjoy the journey and I'd love to help you with this.
*For a quicker response, text 910-610-3199* I really enjoy working with young adults develop skills to manage anxiety and help build self-esteem. I have a passion for trauma work and welcome clients experiencing related difficulties. There are ways to enjoy the journey and I'd love to help you with this.
Scott Koenigsberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
For over 32 years, I have enjoyed being an agent of change that aims to help others become the best version of themselves that they can possibly be. I have been told by my past clients that I am warm, friendly, empathetic, and a good listener. I am here to help you achieve whatever goals you would like to achieve, to help enrich and enjoy your life to the fullest, because that's what life is all about!
For over 32 years, I have enjoyed being an agent of change that aims to help others become the best version of themselves that they can possibly be. I have been told by my past clients that I am warm, friendly, empathetic, and a good listener. I am here to help you achieve whatever goals you would like to achieve, to help enrich and enjoy your life to the fullest, because that's what life is all about!
Kaitlyn Deanne Isherwood
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Have you been feeling disconnected, on-edge, or burnt-out? Do wake up every morning dreading the day? Are you are seeking change but have no idea where to begin? I recognize that starting is the hardest part. I am here to assist, guide and support client's so they feel empowered, motivated and grounded to handle life's toughest challenges. From life transitions such as moving, break-ups, strained familial dynamics, career-changes, marital concerns, or navigating caregiving responsibilities, we will collaboratively work together to set attainable goals while celebrating success and progress along the way.
Have you been feeling disconnected, on-edge, or burnt-out? Do wake up every morning dreading the day? Are you are seeking change but have no idea where to begin? I recognize that starting is the hardest part. I am here to assist, guide and support client's so they feel empowered, motivated and grounded to handle life's toughest challenges. From life transitions such as moving, break-ups, strained familial dynamics, career-changes, marital concerns, or navigating caregiving responsibilities, we will collaboratively work together to set attainable goals while celebrating success and progress along the way.
Ana Ervin
Counselor, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, or disconnected? Has something in your life become unmanageable? You've probably tried talking with your family and friends, only to feel more frustrated and confused. Thinking about the future is hard because you feel discouraged. You are stuck in a routine that is holding you in place. You have probably noticed that your relationships are suffering because you feel disconnected; you do not have the same eagerness to connect with your loved ones because you are using all your energy to make it through the days. The things you used to enjoy are a distant memory.
Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, or disconnected? Has something in your life become unmanageable? You've probably tried talking with your family and friends, only to feel more frustrated and confused. Thinking about the future is hard because you feel discouraged. You are stuck in a routine that is holding you in place. You have probably noticed that your relationships are suffering because you feel disconnected; you do not have the same eagerness to connect with your loved ones because you are using all your energy to make it through the days. The things you used to enjoy are a distant memory.
Ashley Strack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Feeling stressed, anxious, frustrated, stuck, sad, lonely, confused, or misunderstood? Curious to learn more about who you are? Therapy can help you better understand yourself and navigate the different feelings and situations that come up in your life. You are about to take your first step forward toward growth, change and improving the quality of your life. Your decision to start therapy is a commitment to yourself. I enjoy supporting clients and meeting them where they are at to help them reach their goals to be their best. Asking for help is not easy, but taking the first step is the hardest part in your journey to finding clari
Feeling stressed, anxious, frustrated, stuck, sad, lonely, confused, or misunderstood? Curious to learn more about who you are? Therapy can help you better understand yourself and navigate the different feelings and situations that come up in your life. You are about to take your first step forward toward growth, change and improving the quality of your life. Your decision to start therapy is a commitment to yourself. I enjoy supporting clients and meeting them where they are at to help them reach their goals to be their best. Asking for help is not easy, but taking the first step is the hardest part in your journey to finding clari
Monique Boyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
There is a little voice in your head that keeps telling you that you cannot do it. You're not good enough. That voice continues to plague you with doubt, anxiety, confusion, and anger. You question: Who am I? What am I supposed to be doing? You are constantly trying to implement change but find yourself unmotivated, procrastinating, and feeling “lazy.” You try and it just feels too hard. The voice in the back of your head becomes louder and reminds you that changing is hard. You’re then left to spiral into a ball of anxiety or depression.
There is a little voice in your head that keeps telling you that you cannot do it. You're not good enough. That voice continues to plague you with doubt, anxiety, confusion, and anger. You question: Who am I? What am I supposed to be doing? You are constantly trying to implement change but find yourself unmotivated, procrastinating, and feeling “lazy.” You try and it just feels too hard. The voice in the back of your head becomes louder and reminds you that changing is hard. You’re then left to spiral into a ball of anxiety or depression.
Love Thrives Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405 (Online Only)
I am a teletherapist for the state of North Carolina! It is my passion to assist others in realizing their fullest potential, whether that be on an individual level, in a relationship, or in a family context. I adore working with pre-teens, teenagers, individuals, and couples on issues such as anxiety, communication, "self betterment", identity, sexuality, intimacy. phobias, depression, sexual dysfunction, and many other areas. Please email lovethrivestherapy@gmail.com for an appointment, and see more at www.lovethrivestherapy.com
I am a teletherapist for the state of North Carolina! It is my passion to assist others in realizing their fullest potential, whether that be on an individual level, in a relationship, or in a family context. I adore working with pre-teens, teenagers, individuals, and couples on issues such as anxiety, communication, "self betterment", identity, sexuality, intimacy. phobias, depression, sexual dysfunction, and many other areas. Please email lovethrivestherapy@gmail.com for an appointment, and see more at www.lovethrivestherapy.com
Maria Tar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403 (Online Only)
At one point or another every person faces difficulties in their life, especially in today’s world. With over 60,000 thoughts a day, most of which are negative, it is hard to combat the emotional distress that builds over time. My specialty is helping you build tools that can assist you in working through those difficulties on an individual level or within a dynamic relationship. I offer a compassionate, supportive and unbiased environment to explore life’s difficulties.
At one point or another every person faces difficulties in their life, especially in today’s world. With over 60,000 thoughts a day, most of which are negative, it is hard to combat the emotional distress that builds over time. My specialty is helping you build tools that can assist you in working through those difficulties on an individual level or within a dynamic relationship. I offer a compassionate, supportive and unbiased environment to explore life’s difficulties.
Natasha M Nunes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
If you are struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, traumatic events or parenting difficulties, I can help. I have been providing counseling to all ages for 30 years. I have helped people cope with & overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, parenting struggles & trauma. I am trained in EMDR for traumatic events and am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, supervising LCMHCAs. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and work to help people create health in all areas of their life. I believe that we all have the ability to make our lives joyful, healthy and productive.
If you are struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, traumatic events or parenting difficulties, I can help. I have been providing counseling to all ages for 30 years. I have helped people cope with & overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, parenting struggles & trauma. I am trained in EMDR for traumatic events and am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, supervising LCMHCAs. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and work to help people create health in all areas of their life. I believe that we all have the ability to make our lives joyful, healthy and productive.
See more therapy options for New Hanover County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in New Hanover County, NC
600+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in New Hanover County, NC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
80% | Self Esteem |
76% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Coping Skills |
73% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
69% | Aetna |
60% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in New Hanover County, NC see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
14% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in New Hanover County?
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
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.
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.
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.