Therapists in Paron, AR

Photo of Candace Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Candace Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Greetings! I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker(LCSW). I completed my Master's at the University of Missouri-Columbia(MIZ-ZOU). I have over 17 years counseling experience. I get the most joy from partnering with individuals who may be struggling with phase of life challenges and would benefit from a fresh, non-judgmental perspective. My years of experience has allowed me the opportunity to gain extensive training and clinical practice with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma and mental health related challenges.
Greetings! I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker(LCSW). I completed my Master's at the University of Missouri-Columbia(MIZ-ZOU). I have over 17 years counseling experience. I get the most joy from partnering with individuals who may be struggling with phase of life challenges and would benefit from a fresh, non-judgmental perspective. My years of experience has allowed me the opportunity to gain extensive training and clinical practice with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma and mental health related challenges.
(501) 790-4540 View (501) 790-4540

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brandon Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brandon Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72227
Therapy, to me, is a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. I work with individuals, couples, and families who feel stretched thin, stuck in old patterns, or worn down by stress, grief, conflict, or emotional pain. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and honest — with room for humor, curiosity, and genuine connection. I help you slow down, make sense of what you’re carrying, and reconnect with your own strength, resilience, and capacity for change.
Therapy, to me, is a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. I work with individuals, couples, and families who feel stretched thin, stuck in old patterns, or worn down by stress, grief, conflict, or emotional pain. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and honest — with room for humor, curiosity, and genuine connection. I help you slow down, make sense of what you’re carrying, and reconnect with your own strength, resilience, and capacity for change.
(501) 267-9692 View (501) 267-9692
Photo of Howard M Turney, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Howard M Turney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Little Rock, AR 72205
I have 32 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. I work with people suffering from depression and anxiety, marital issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, behavioral issues, grief, to name a few. I have written a book available on Amazon entitled, "Everybody Has A Story," a practical guide to marriage. This book offers insights into the challenges created by marriage. It is based on my years of experience working with couples to create a more healthy and happy existence.
I have 32 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples. I work with people suffering from depression and anxiety, marital issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, behavioral issues, grief, to name a few. I have written a book available on Amazon entitled, "Everybody Has A Story," a practical guide to marriage. This book offers insights into the challenges created by marriage. It is based on my years of experience working with couples to create a more healthy and happy existence.
(501) 859-6433 View (501) 859-6433
Photo of Abby Campbell, Counselor, MA, NCC, LAC
Abby Campbell
Counselor, MA, NCC, LAC
Online Only
Have you found yourself recently feeling overwhelmed? Are you in a place where your past or current experiences are effecting you so deeply that you struggle to function in your everyday life? Has anxiety or depression caused you to feel isolated, stuck, or unable to cope? Sometimes we find ourselves in stuck in a place we never thought we'd be. I strive to provide a space where you can be yourself, and where we can work together to process the burdens you bring into the therapy room.
Have you found yourself recently feeling overwhelmed? Are you in a place where your past or current experiences are effecting you so deeply that you struggle to function in your everyday life? Has anxiety or depression caused you to feel isolated, stuck, or unable to cope? Sometimes we find ourselves in stuck in a place we never thought we'd be. I strive to provide a space where you can be yourself, and where we can work together to process the burdens you bring into the therapy room.
(501) 361-1410 View (501) 361-1410
Photo of Jessica Soule, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Soule
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Waitlist for new clients
Life transitions, unexpected changes, and traumatic events can impact our sense of self: what we believe about who we are, how we show up in the world, and how we interact with others. As a therapist, my goal is to provide an empowering, nurturing environment in which to discover a path towards healing, growth, and a more authentic connection with one’s self and with others, particularly following traumatic events. I strive to be affirming of the experiences of clients in the LGBTQ community, as well as other culturally marginalized and/or oppressed communities, and strive to meet clients wherever they are in their journey.
Life transitions, unexpected changes, and traumatic events can impact our sense of self: what we believe about who we are, how we show up in the world, and how we interact with others. As a therapist, my goal is to provide an empowering, nurturing environment in which to discover a path towards healing, growth, and a more authentic connection with one’s self and with others, particularly following traumatic events. I strive to be affirming of the experiences of clients in the LGBTQ community, as well as other culturally marginalized and/or oppressed communities, and strive to meet clients wherever they are in their journey.
(501) 382-8117 View (501) 382-8117
Photo of Dr. Stevie Mae Douglas, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Stevie Mae Douglas
Psychologist, PsyD
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I am a licensed psychologist and combat veteran. I blend these worlds to offer a warm, direct approach with gentle challenges and goal-oriented movement. Additionally, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to spend time cultivating a space where you feel heard, seen, accepted, supported, challenged, and celebrated. Although my clinical background varies across populations, my passion is working with adults who have experienced prolonged childhood trauma and who are subsequently seeking healing and change for their current lives.
I am a licensed psychologist and combat veteran. I blend these worlds to offer a warm, direct approach with gentle challenges and goal-oriented movement. Additionally, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to spend time cultivating a space where you feel heard, seen, accepted, supported, challenged, and celebrated. Although my clinical background varies across populations, my passion is working with adults who have experienced prolonged childhood trauma and who are subsequently seeking healing and change for their current lives.
(501) 267-9447 View (501) 267-9447
Photo of Rachel Holladay - Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective , Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT200
Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT200
Hi there! We are now accepting new clients. At Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective, we believe in the transformative power of a holistic approach to mental and emotional well-being. Our mission is to provide personalized, compassionate care that addresses the unique needs of each individual, from adolescents to adults. We understand that mental health is interconnected with physical, emotional, and social aspects of life. Our team of experienced counselors and nutritionists employ a wide range of therapeutic techniques tailored to support clients through their unique journeys.
Hi there! We are now accepting new clients. At Park Hill Counseling - A Wellness Collective, we believe in the transformative power of a holistic approach to mental and emotional well-being. Our mission is to provide personalized, compassionate care that addresses the unique needs of each individual, from adolescents to adults. We understand that mental health is interconnected with physical, emotional, and social aspects of life. Our team of experienced counselors and nutritionists employ a wide range of therapeutic techniques tailored to support clients through their unique journeys.
(501) 984-9864 View (501) 984-9864
Photo of LaTonia Tweedy - Therapeutic Solutions, PA, Psychologist, LPE-I
Therapeutic Solutions, PA
Psychologist, LPE-I
Little Rock, AR 72212
Overwhelming anxiety, depression, insomnia or unbalanced ? I invite you to take a journey, learn how to befriend your body. I utilize a Neuroaffective Relational Model (NARM) approach. The model targets: •affect regulation •attachment •attunement •interpersonal/social connection • body regulation. The model is "resource orientated", meaning towards your strengths and potentials, rather than problems and conflicts. The emphasis is on collaboration. Research supports this treatment as effective with the following populations: Autism Spectrum Sensory Processing Developmental Trauma Complex Trauma
Overwhelming anxiety, depression, insomnia or unbalanced ? I invite you to take a journey, learn how to befriend your body. I utilize a Neuroaffective Relational Model (NARM) approach. The model targets: •affect regulation •attachment •attunement •interpersonal/social connection • body regulation. The model is "resource orientated", meaning towards your strengths and potentials, rather than problems and conflicts. The emphasis is on collaboration. Research supports this treatment as effective with the following populations: Autism Spectrum Sensory Processing Developmental Trauma Complex Trauma
(501) 214-5972 View (501) 214-5972
Photo of Amy Melissa Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Amy Melissa Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Conway, AR 72032
I treat a variety of behavioral stressors including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, problematic behaviors and more. I work with each client as an individual to reach their goals of a healthy and valuable life through a combination of different therapies in a LGBTQIA+ friendly and non-judgmental atmosphere. I also can’t forget about Penny, my trained therapy animal!
I treat a variety of behavioral stressors including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, problematic behaviors and more. I work with each client as an individual to reach their goals of a healthy and valuable life through a combination of different therapies in a LGBTQIA+ friendly and non-judgmental atmosphere. I also can’t forget about Penny, my trained therapy animal!
(501) 285-8478 View (501) 285-8478
Photo of Kimberly Wells - Kimberly Wells Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Kimberly Wells Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is hard. Anxiety, depression, adjusting to new experiences, and PTSD are just a few of the things that have a way of knocking us down. It sometimes takes courage to reach out for help. However, if you have come to a point where your dissatisfaction with life is greater than your discomfort of asking for help, you may be ready to explore therapy. I strive to make this as easy as possible for my clients. I offer a judgement free zone as an empathetic listener who may have some insight that will help you find your answers. This is your life. I am only here in the background, holding a lantern to help you light your path.
Life is hard. Anxiety, depression, adjusting to new experiences, and PTSD are just a few of the things that have a way of knocking us down. It sometimes takes courage to reach out for help. However, if you have come to a point where your dissatisfaction with life is greater than your discomfort of asking for help, you may be ready to explore therapy. I strive to make this as easy as possible for my clients. I offer a judgement free zone as an empathetic listener who may have some insight that will help you find your answers. This is your life. I am only here in the background, holding a lantern to help you light your path.
(479) 339-3749 View (479) 339-3749
Photo of Russell Durdunji, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Russell Durdunji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
14 Endorsed
Online Only
Something feels off, and you're tired of not being able to name it. Maybe you've built a good life, but it doesn't feel like yours. Maybe your relationship keeps circling the same fights. Maybe the faith that once grounded you now raises more questions than answers. You're not broken. You're somewhere in between, and you're ready for something to change. I work with high-functioning adults and couples navigating burnout, relationship patterns, and spiritual questions. You don't have to be in crisis to come. If you're still showing up to everything but yourself, that's enough of a reason.
Something feels off, and you're tired of not being able to name it. Maybe you've built a good life, but it doesn't feel like yours. Maybe your relationship keeps circling the same fights. Maybe the faith that once grounded you now raises more questions than answers. You're not broken. You're somewhere in between, and you're ready for something to change. I work with high-functioning adults and couples navigating burnout, relationship patterns, and spiritual questions. You don't have to be in crisis to come. If you're still showing up to everything but yourself, that's enough of a reason.
(501) 808-2925 View (501) 808-2925
Photo of Susan Warren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Susan Warren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72201
We all experience life circumstances that leave us feeling like we aren't ourselves, as we figure out ways to "just get by". Emotions and thoughts help us understand ourselves and our experiences, but can be overwhelming or even perplexing! Maybe you are not sure how to feel better, maybe you are not ready to feel better, and maybe cannot even imagine how to feel better. That's okay. I meet people where they are and work with them to create a path forward.
We all experience life circumstances that leave us feeling like we aren't ourselves, as we figure out ways to "just get by". Emotions and thoughts help us understand ourselves and our experiences, but can be overwhelming or even perplexing! Maybe you are not sure how to feel better, maybe you are not ready to feel better, and maybe cannot even imagine how to feel better. That's okay. I meet people where they are and work with them to create a path forward.
(479) 323-3493 View (479) 323-3493
Photo of Willica Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CSTIP
Willica Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CSTIP
Online Only
Life feels overwhelming. Finding a balance between family and work while maintaining your mental health seems impossible. There are times when you want to take a break, but your obligations and responsibilities demand that you keep going. You feel like you are drowning, but you’re afraid to reach out for help. You know the frenzy of anxiety and the weight of helplessness that threatens to pull you under as you fight to keep your head above the water. I understand, and I am ready to join you. You and I can courageously navigate these waters so you can reclaim your joy. Lets work together, to turn your brokenness into peace.
Life feels overwhelming. Finding a balance between family and work while maintaining your mental health seems impossible. There are times when you want to take a break, but your obligations and responsibilities demand that you keep going. You feel like you are drowning, but you’re afraid to reach out for help. You know the frenzy of anxiety and the weight of helplessness that threatens to pull you under as you fight to keep your head above the water. I understand, and I am ready to join you. You and I can courageously navigate these waters so you can reclaim your joy. Lets work together, to turn your brokenness into peace.
(870) 451-0209 View (870) 451-0209
Photo of Shawonda Brown Irby - Holistic Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, BC-THP
Holistic Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, BC-THP
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72204
My counseling approach focuses on rebuilding individuals and their families through self-discovery, inspiration, and self-actualization. This is achieved by using an integrated perspective, which focus on the mind, body and soul of each client. The purpose is to help clients that have paused on their journey due to life circumstances; seek true identity, learn tools for success, motivate, inspire hope, and embrace the process of self-improvement.
My counseling approach focuses on rebuilding individuals and their families through self-discovery, inspiration, and self-actualization. This is achieved by using an integrated perspective, which focus on the mind, body and soul of each client. The purpose is to help clients that have paused on their journey due to life circumstances; seek true identity, learn tools for success, motivate, inspire hope, and embrace the process of self-improvement.
(501) 881-2156 View (501) 881-2156
Photo of Nolan Kordsmeier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nolan Kordsmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72207
Do you feel alienated, alone, & misunderstood? Caught in a cycle of escape, control, and avoidance? You judge yourself at every turn, can’t meet your own expectations and don't seem to trust yourself? You feel like you're not good enough and scared you can't feel anything but alone. You sacrifice parts of yourself to feel worthy of love. Overwhelmed by shame and guilt about who you are and what you’ve experienced. You try to find peace by avoiding life. Control has become the problem, not the solution. I'm here to help you discover a new way to feel, heal & deal. You no longer need to feel alone in the face of overwhelming emotions.
Do you feel alienated, alone, & misunderstood? Caught in a cycle of escape, control, and avoidance? You judge yourself at every turn, can’t meet your own expectations and don't seem to trust yourself? You feel like you're not good enough and scared you can't feel anything but alone. You sacrifice parts of yourself to feel worthy of love. Overwhelmed by shame and guilt about who you are and what you’ve experienced. You try to find peace by avoiding life. Control has become the problem, not the solution. I'm here to help you discover a new way to feel, heal & deal. You no longer need to feel alone in the face of overwhelming emotions.
(501) 404-8444 View (501) 404-8444
Photo of Dr. Linda M. Beldin-Korter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADC3
Dr. Linda M. Beldin-Korter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADC3
Online Only
I enjoy getting to know my clients by understanding where they are coming from, and this strengthens my ability to provide feedback with a goal to promote healing and positive change. When I first made the decision to become a counselor, I also made a commitment to work on my own traumas, recovery, and other issues. I've witnessed a lot of history in this country, and I draw upon my 37 years of experience, with multiple licenses and certifications. This mix works!
I enjoy getting to know my clients by understanding where they are coming from, and this strengthens my ability to provide feedback with a goal to promote healing and positive change. When I first made the decision to become a counselor, I also made a commitment to work on my own traumas, recovery, and other issues. I've witnessed a lot of history in this country, and I draw upon my 37 years of experience, with multiple licenses and certifications. This mix works!
(501) 381-2841 View (501) 381-2841
Photo of Melrita Maechel Johnson - The Chosen One Professional Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFSW
The Chosen One Professional Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFSW
Online Only
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, having relationship issues, or just need someone to speak with regarding managing your current situation? The clients I work with are in a place of being or becoming stagnant and not knowing how to make the next step. This could be due to past decisions, trauma, relationships, or current situations. My clients want to live their best life possible and need insight into doing so. I want to empower them to address psychological issues, relational issues, and past issues that hinder forward progress and to see them healed, well, and whole. We also have a Certified Financial SW on staff.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, having relationship issues, or just need someone to speak with regarding managing your current situation? The clients I work with are in a place of being or becoming stagnant and not knowing how to make the next step. This could be due to past decisions, trauma, relationships, or current situations. My clients want to live their best life possible and need insight into doing so. I want to empower them to address psychological issues, relational issues, and past issues that hinder forward progress and to see them healed, well, and whole. We also have a Certified Financial SW on staff.
(501) 833-5986 View (501) 833-5986
Photo of Laura Gottsponer, Licensed Certified Social Worker, LCSW
Laura Gottsponer
Licensed Certified Social Worker, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
Life changes can be difficult whether it be relational, new experiences or added additions. “I am committed to those I see and willing to guide you along the way.” Laura has over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health Field. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has worked with a number of individuals who have dealt with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma. Laura offers a welcoming space for you to come and process what you feel the needed focus is. I also enjoy women’s issues, working with Responders, and have a love of helping you create the life and response that is healthy and unique to you.
Life changes can be difficult whether it be relational, new experiences or added additions. “I am committed to those I see and willing to guide you along the way.” Laura has over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health Field. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has worked with a number of individuals who have dealt with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma. Laura offers a welcoming space for you to come and process what you feel the needed focus is. I also enjoy women’s issues, working with Responders, and have a love of helping you create the life and response that is healthy and unique to you.
(501) 521-1346 View (501) 521-1346
Photo of Jaime Starling, Counselor, MA, TA, LPC
Jaime Starling
Counselor, MA, TA, LPC
Little Rock, AR 72205
The journey of healing can be a daunting path, I strive to provide a safe and authentic environment in which I can walk alongside you as you explore your own story, and through it, find yourself. I have extensive training in trauma informed care, attachment based interventions, experiential play therapy, child centered play, Adlerian play and has completed level 1 theraplay training.
The journey of healing can be a daunting path, I strive to provide a safe and authentic environment in which I can walk alongside you as you explore your own story, and through it, find yourself. I have extensive training in trauma informed care, attachment based interventions, experiential play therapy, child centered play, Adlerian play and has completed level 1 theraplay training.
View
Photo of Karen Fry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Fry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
I'm Karen Fry, LCSW. I’ve been a therapist for a long time (18 years) and I love what I do. I graduated with a Master of Social Work degree from UALR in 2006. I see my profession as a calling. One of my greatest joys is working with someone who begins to see that they have the power to change their life and find healing. The theories and skills that we practice can lead to healing and change. I know because I’ve learned to practice the skills and theories in my own life. I live in Little Rock and enjoy spending time with my two adult kids. I enjoy walking/hiking and bicycling on the Arkansas River Trail.
I'm Karen Fry, LCSW. I’ve been a therapist for a long time (18 years) and I love what I do. I graduated with a Master of Social Work degree from UALR in 2006. I see my profession as a calling. One of my greatest joys is working with someone who begins to see that they have the power to change their life and find healing. The theories and skills that we practice can lead to healing and change. I know because I’ve learned to practice the skills and theories in my own life. I live in Little Rock and enjoy spending time with my two adult kids. I enjoy walking/hiking and bicycling on the Arkansas River Trail.
(870) 686-5180 View (870) 686-5180

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Paron, AR

< 10

Therapists in Paron, AR who prioritize treating:

100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Women's Issues
100% Complex PTSD
100% Medical Trauma
100% Neurodivergence
100% Menopause

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Paron, AR see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Paron?

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.