Therapists in Saint Peters, MO

Photo of Liza Kebel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Liza Kebel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Liza Kebel-Spielman, MA, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of different issues such as suicide, homicide, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bullying, anger, relationships, physical and mental abuse, and issues within the family unit. Liza uses different counseling approaches during sessions such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
Liza Kebel-Spielman, MA, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of different issues such as suicide, homicide, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bullying, anger, relationships, physical and mental abuse, and issues within the family unit. Liza uses different counseling approaches during sessions such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
(636) 339-3687 View (636) 339-3687
Photo of Deborah Garner, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Peters, MO
Deborah Garner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS CMHC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Debbie is a therapist at Ellie Mental Health - St Peters. She will walk with you though your most traumatic moments. She uses treatment plans that fit each person's ideology and always offers unconditional positive regard. She specializes In family, couples and individuals therapy with the help of CBT, Family system and BMT. Debbie has extensive experience in Play therapy and also enjoys working with adolescents and teens who are experiencing behavioral issues. She will happily engage in therapy with all ages from 6-99.
Debbie is a therapist at Ellie Mental Health - St Peters. She will walk with you though your most traumatic moments. She uses treatment plans that fit each person's ideology and always offers unconditional positive regard. She specializes In family, couples and individuals therapy with the help of CBT, Family system and BMT. Debbie has extensive experience in Play therapy and also enjoys working with adolescents and teens who are experiencing behavioral issues. She will happily engage in therapy with all ages from 6-99.
(636) 442-1918 View (636) 442-1918
Photo of Michele Anthony, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Peters, MO
Michele Anthony, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Since I've been working in the field of mental health since 1991, I've learned to address many issues that clients bring to my office including marital and relational, anxiety, depression, bipolar, boundaries, domestic violence, codependency, substance abuse, grief, and blended families.
Since I've been working in the field of mental health since 1991, I've learned to address many issues that clients bring to my office including marital and relational, anxiety, depression, bipolar, boundaries, domestic violence, codependency, substance abuse, grief, and blended families.
(636) 249-2116 View (636) 249-2116
Photo of Janza Preston, Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Janza Preston
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
I have created a genuine, engaging therapeutic relationship with clients and apply my skills to provide a healing course of treatment. My experience includes individual sessions involving substance abuse, schizophrenia, developmental disability, career building, depression, and suicidal ideation. My goal for the clients is to enhance their basic emotional, behavioral, and spiritual skills to attain peace in the midst of their storm. Thus, enabling them to apply wisdom in current and future situations.
I have created a genuine, engaging therapeutic relationship with clients and apply my skills to provide a healing course of treatment. My experience includes individual sessions involving substance abuse, schizophrenia, developmental disability, career building, depression, and suicidal ideation. My goal for the clients is to enhance their basic emotional, behavioral, and spiritual skills to attain peace in the midst of their storm. Thus, enabling them to apply wisdom in current and future situations.
(636) 422-5993 View (636) 422-5993
Photo of Melynda Heienickle, Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Melynda Heienickle
Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, CSC, CCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Counseling for wellness and wisdom. That’s my mission. My goal as your counselor is to accept an invitation into your complex and dynamic world; in hopes that I may offer you the support you are seeking to find peace. If you are searching through this directory, chances are you sense, or maybe even know, something is not quite right in your life. Are you personally struggling and haven’t found a solution or a way to move forward? Is your marriage or committed relationship in a state of turmoil? Perhaps your child or someone else you care deeply for is struggling, and you are unsure of how to help them or even cope yourself.
Counseling for wellness and wisdom. That’s my mission. My goal as your counselor is to accept an invitation into your complex and dynamic world; in hopes that I may offer you the support you are seeking to find peace. If you are searching through this directory, chances are you sense, or maybe even know, something is not quite right in your life. Are you personally struggling and haven’t found a solution or a way to move forward? Is your marriage or committed relationship in a state of turmoil? Perhaps your child or someone else you care deeply for is struggling, and you are unsure of how to help them or even cope yourself.
(636) 434-2402 View (636) 434-2402
Photo of Brenda Lorraine Bryant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Brenda Lorraine Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
We all walk on a journey through life. It is on this journey that we face situations that we can celebrate, but also situations in which we struggle. I will walk with you on this journey. We will be open and honest to help you reach a place of peace that you desire. It takes time to work through grief, anger, and challenges, and that is okay. Allow your inner strength to shine through as you make this step toward inner healing. Know that you are worth this step and the time that it takes to reach the destination you choose to find a better and more fulfilling life. Call today and know that it is time to get started. You can do this!
We all walk on a journey through life. It is on this journey that we face situations that we can celebrate, but also situations in which we struggle. I will walk with you on this journey. We will be open and honest to help you reach a place of peace that you desire. It takes time to work through grief, anger, and challenges, and that is okay. Allow your inner strength to shine through as you make this step toward inner healing. Know that you are worth this step and the time that it takes to reach the destination you choose to find a better and more fulfilling life. Call today and know that it is time to get started. You can do this!
(844) 991-0090 View (844) 991-0090
Photo of Hannah Roscow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Peters, MO
Hannah Roscow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63304
We all go through difficult times and need some help navigating our way through. I am here to create an empathetic environment for you and your family to overcome challenges. I have experience working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families from many different backgrounds and cultures. I pull from a variety of techniques and theories to provide tools and consultation to help you and your family to make meaningful changes. I draw from a Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic technique, and use Enneagram personality assessments to guide in self-discovery.
We all go through difficult times and need some help navigating our way through. I am here to create an empathetic environment for you and your family to overcome challenges. I have experience working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families from many different backgrounds and cultures. I pull from a variety of techniques and theories to provide tools and consultation to help you and your family to make meaningful changes. I draw from a Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic technique, and use Enneagram personality assessments to guide in self-discovery.
(636) 597-5799 View (636) 597-5799
Photo of Colleen Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Peters, MO
Colleen Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Colleen Larson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 2022. Colleen has been working with adults and children for several years. She thinks that what makes her successful is her ability to build relationships and find strengths in her clients. She hopes that her clients walk away from sessions feeling calm, heard, and valued. Outside of work, Colleen enjoys spending time with her family, going to the zoo, and learning how to cook.
Colleen Larson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 2022. Colleen has been working with adults and children for several years. She thinks that what makes her successful is her ability to build relationships and find strengths in her clients. She hopes that her clients walk away from sessions feeling calm, heard, and valued. Outside of work, Colleen enjoys spending time with her family, going to the zoo, and learning how to cook.
(636) 339-4461 View (636) 339-4461
Photo of Kayla Foster Counseling, LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Peters, MO
Kayla Foster Counseling, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CIT
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Finding the right therapist can seem incredibly overwhelming in your journey to begin counseling. I am a non-judgmental professional willing to not only assist you in your journey to better mental health and creating positive change in your life, but also make it a fun and enjoyable experience.
Finding the right therapist can seem incredibly overwhelming in your journey to begin counseling. I am a non-judgmental professional willing to not only assist you in your journey to better mental health and creating positive change in your life, but also make it a fun and enjoyable experience.
(636) 228-6389 View (636) 228-6389
Photo of Lauren A Hughes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Lauren A Hughes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63304  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
We all struggle from time to time. Children in particular are learning every day how to pick up and carry on after they've faced something that really challenged them. But sometimes they get stuck and don't know what to do. Divorce, bullying, changing families, and so many other life changes that are out of our control can have a drastic impact. They can lead us to withdraw, fall behind in school, act out at home, or worse. Whatever the issues you and your family may have, I believe that sessions with me can help you and your family to figure out where you're stuck and what we can do to move forward.
We all struggle from time to time. Children in particular are learning every day how to pick up and carry on after they've faced something that really challenged them. But sometimes they get stuck and don't know what to do. Divorce, bullying, changing families, and so many other life changes that are out of our control can have a drastic impact. They can lead us to withdraw, fall behind in school, act out at home, or worse. Whatever the issues you and your family may have, I believe that sessions with me can help you and your family to figure out where you're stuck and what we can do to move forward.
(636) 317-5758 View (636) 317-5758
Photo of Taylor Eudy, Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Taylor Eudy
Counselor, MEd, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
I am of the millennial generation, an artist, a musician, a plant medicine advocate, foodie, animal lover, book worm, and pre-amateur comedian. My holistic counseling practice is designed to promote healing, growth, and harmony. I offer practical, sustainable tools and perspectives for anyone wanting to feel more satisfied with their life! My process often includes getting in touch with and observing your spirit together, then using it as a guide in helping you make positive, wanted change so that you feel more at peace in your mind and at home in your body. My goal is pretty simple- to help clients reach their goals!
I am of the millennial generation, an artist, a musician, a plant medicine advocate, foodie, animal lover, book worm, and pre-amateur comedian. My holistic counseling practice is designed to promote healing, growth, and harmony. I offer practical, sustainable tools and perspectives for anyone wanting to feel more satisfied with their life! My process often includes getting in touch with and observing your spirit together, then using it as a guide in helping you make positive, wanted change so that you feel more at peace in your mind and at home in your body. My goal is pretty simple- to help clients reach their goals!
(314) 926-9384 View (314) 926-9384
Photo of Katie Fischer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Katie Fischer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! The fact that you have made your way here is HUGE! It means that you have taken the first step to seeking the help your child needs. Hello! My name is Katie Fischer and I am the owner of Stay & Play Counseling, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who is passionate about using the power of play to help children through difficult times. I bring over 20 years of experience working with children to my private practice including many years of work in the school setting as an elementary school teacher and school counselor, as well as a therapist in an early childhood setting.
Welcome! The fact that you have made your way here is HUGE! It means that you have taken the first step to seeking the help your child needs. Hello! My name is Katie Fischer and I am the owner of Stay & Play Counseling, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who is passionate about using the power of play to help children through difficult times. I bring over 20 years of experience working with children to my private practice including many years of work in the school setting as an elementary school teacher and school counselor, as well as a therapist in an early childhood setting.
(636) 245-0463 View (636) 245-0463
Photo of Erin Lynch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Peters, MO
Erin Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Erin Lynch is an LCSW, who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from the University of Michigan School of Social Work with a Masters Degree in Interpersonal Practice. Erin believes in client centered treatment and creates a supportive and collaborative environment between herself and her clients. Erin utilizes many cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy techniques in her practice. Her main areas of focus are treating mood disorders and anxiety disorders. in her spare time, Erin enjoys many activities that allow her to be in the moment, like travelling and spending time outside.
Erin Lynch is an LCSW, who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from the University of Michigan School of Social Work with a Masters Degree in Interpersonal Practice. Erin believes in client centered treatment and creates a supportive and collaborative environment between herself and her clients. Erin utilizes many cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy techniques in her practice. Her main areas of focus are treating mood disorders and anxiety disorders. in her spare time, Erin enjoys many activities that allow her to be in the moment, like travelling and spending time outside.
(636) 339-3876 View (636) 339-3876
Photo of Rashonda Thornton, Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Rashonda Thornton
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Waitlist for new clients
Life can bring unexpected events resulting in a change in how you view the world. Rather you are experiencing, relationship stressors, hopelessness, anxiety, regret, resentment, feeling stuck or grief. I am passionate to collaborate with you to achieve family and individual success.
Life can bring unexpected events resulting in a change in how you view the world. Rather you are experiencing, relationship stressors, hopelessness, anxiety, regret, resentment, feeling stuck or grief. I am passionate to collaborate with you to achieve family and individual success.
(636) 244-6230 View (636) 244-6230
Photo of Daniel Downey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Peters, MO
Daniel Downey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Hello, I’m Daniel Downey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist based in St. Louis, Missouri. I provide mental health services to individuals across the state. My practice has two main areas of focus. The first is working with individuals experiencing anxiety and related disorders such as OCD, phobias, panic disorder, and depression. I My second area of focus is working with young adults experiencing difficulties with major life transitions, including those related to gender identity and sexuality. I incorporate cognitive theory, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches.
Hello, I’m Daniel Downey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist based in St. Louis, Missouri. I provide mental health services to individuals across the state. My practice has two main areas of focus. The first is working with individuals experiencing anxiety and related disorders such as OCD, phobias, panic disorder, and depression. I My second area of focus is working with young adults experiencing difficulties with major life transitions, including those related to gender identity and sexuality. I incorporate cognitive theory, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches.
(636) 535-1906 View (636) 535-1906
Photo of Annette Arms, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Annette Arms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Hi, my name is Annette Arms, and I am a licensed professional counselor, and a nationally certified counselor who is EMDR trained living and working in southwest Missouri serving clients throughout the state via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families. My specialties include working with neurodivergent children and adults, and the approaches I use are person-centered using a variety of integrative approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Narrative Therapy tailored to each client's individual need(s).
Hi, my name is Annette Arms, and I am a licensed professional counselor, and a nationally certified counselor who is EMDR trained living and working in southwest Missouri serving clients throughout the state via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families. My specialties include working with neurodivergent children and adults, and the approaches I use are person-centered using a variety of integrative approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Narrative Therapy tailored to each client's individual need(s).
(636) 435-2701 View (636) 435-2701
Photo of Rahul Mehta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Rahul Mehta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
As a sex addiction therapist, trained EMDR clinician, and nationally certified psychotherapist, I work with individuals struggling with intense urges, emotions, and conflict. New clients come to me feeling isolated, in pain, and on edge due to having nowhere to express their toughest emotions. Many grew up in a traumatic family of origin with messages like "Suck it up" and "Don't cry" being taught to them. My clients come to me to say the things that they couldn't otherwise say to anyone else.
As a sex addiction therapist, trained EMDR clinician, and nationally certified psychotherapist, I work with individuals struggling with intense urges, emotions, and conflict. New clients come to me feeling isolated, in pain, and on edge due to having nowhere to express their toughest emotions. Many grew up in a traumatic family of origin with messages like "Suck it up" and "Don't cry" being taught to them. My clients come to me to say the things that they couldn't otherwise say to anyone else.
(636) 238-2750 View (636) 238-2750
Photo of Karen Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Karen Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Hello! I am Karen Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor. When you decide it is time to work with a therapist, it can be a frightening, daunting process. However, therapeutic healing comes in the context of a compassionate, non-judgmental, highly empathic relationship. I will provide this for you as we explore your inner world together. You do not need to do it alone. My expertise is in helping individuals build and strengthen healthy relationships with self and others. More specifically, I work with women's issues, relational issues, self worth, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Hello! I am Karen Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor. When you decide it is time to work with a therapist, it can be a frightening, daunting process. However, therapeutic healing comes in the context of a compassionate, non-judgmental, highly empathic relationship. I will provide this for you as we explore your inner world together. You do not need to do it alone. My expertise is in helping individuals build and strengthen healthy relationships with self and others. More specifically, I work with women's issues, relational issues, self worth, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(636) 745-4571 View (636) 745-4571
Photo of Meg Verstraete, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
Meg Verstraete
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Meg Verstraete has over 18 + years as a licensed professional counselor. Ms. Verstraete's experience includes both educational and clinical settings. Some of her experience includes assisting her clients with matters such as eating disordered behavior, high conflict divorce and parenting matters, grief and loss, spectrum related matters, behavioral issues in education, learning disorders, depression, grief and loss, anxiety and pandemic related issues.
Meg Verstraete has over 18 + years as a licensed professional counselor. Ms. Verstraete's experience includes both educational and clinical settings. Some of her experience includes assisting her clients with matters such as eating disordered behavior, high conflict divorce and parenting matters, grief and loss, spectrum related matters, behavioral issues in education, learning disorders, depression, grief and loss, anxiety and pandemic related issues.
(636) 431-4240 View (636) 431-4240
Photo of James M Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Peters, MO
James M Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Whether you are in a marriage that is struggling, having a problem personally with substances, or just need some help clearing out the clutter in your life, my approach to counseling comes from many different counseling theories. I believe that it is important to focus on the here and now, emphasizing future actions, behaviors, and thoughts, rather than deeply exploring the past. While the past has brought us where we are today, how you believe today and how you act today is of more importance. I believe in being directive and intentional in all aspects of therapy.
Whether you are in a marriage that is struggling, having a problem personally with substances, or just need some help clearing out the clutter in your life, my approach to counseling comes from many different counseling theories. I believe that it is important to focus on the here and now, emphasizing future actions, behaviors, and thoughts, rather than deeply exploring the past. While the past has brought us where we are today, how you believe today and how you act today is of more importance. I believe in being directive and intentional in all aspects of therapy.
(636) 400-3311 View (636) 400-3311

See more therapy options for Saint Peters

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Peters, MO

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Saint Peters, MO who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
71% Coping Skills
70% Relationship Issues
68% Grief
66% Self Esteem
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
78% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Saint Peters, MO see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Peters?

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.