Therapists in Payson, AZ

Photo of Kelsi McMartin - Kelsi McMartin - Healing and Growth, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kelsi McMartin - Healing and Growth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
So you’ve heard about therapy and thought about it long enough. Now you’re ready to give it a go; what’s the worst that can happen? Therapists don’t bite... we listen and nod our heads and sometimes crack dumb jokes even. Lesson number 1: Feelings won’t kill you. And the only way through them is.... through them. Lesson number 2: There will be tears.. tears are our friends... tears water the heart. I provide trauma-informed care and have learned in my 25 years in the biz how to help people heal from their past hurts and to find the path to more understanding, authenticity and self love.
So you’ve heard about therapy and thought about it long enough. Now you’re ready to give it a go; what’s the worst that can happen? Therapists don’t bite... we listen and nod our heads and sometimes crack dumb jokes even. Lesson number 1: Feelings won’t kill you. And the only way through them is.... through them. Lesson number 2: There will be tears.. tears are our friends... tears water the heart. I provide trauma-informed care and have learned in my 25 years in the biz how to help people heal from their past hurts and to find the path to more understanding, authenticity and self love.
(928) 249-8497 View (928) 249-8497
Photo of Kori Newland, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kori Newland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona. I have experience in helping clients with a wide range of presenting concerns including family conflicts, trauma, abuse, stress and anxiety, anger management and parenting issues since 2015. I have worked with children, teens, adults and families. I also have been providing online telehealth therapy since 2020. I can provide a Christian perspective when requested by the client. I am also registered as an out of state telehealth provider in Minnesota, South Carolina and Florida. I have completed Phase I Training in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona. I have experience in helping clients with a wide range of presenting concerns including family conflicts, trauma, abuse, stress and anxiety, anger management and parenting issues since 2015. I have worked with children, teens, adults and families. I also have been providing online telehealth therapy since 2020. I can provide a Christian perspective when requested by the client. I am also registered as an out of state telehealth provider in Minnesota, South Carolina and Florida. I have completed Phase I Training in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT).
(928) 224-3855 View (928) 224-3855
Photo of Dr. Christina Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MBA, LCSW
Dr. Christina Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MBA, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Payson, AZ 85541
Mental health has been impacted greatly since the beginning of the 2020 pandemic. Increased rates of substance abuse and mental instability require specialized support that varies per person - no one size fits all and there is never a quick mend. My practice meets you and your family where you're at, and creatively working together toward long-term solutions in achieving a healthy quality of life.
Mental health has been impacted greatly since the beginning of the 2020 pandemic. Increased rates of substance abuse and mental instability require specialized support that varies per person - no one size fits all and there is never a quick mend. My practice meets you and your family where you're at, and creatively working together toward long-term solutions in achieving a healthy quality of life.
(480) 637-2671 View (480) 637-2671
Photo of Victoria Lee Woods - Victoria L. Woods, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Victoria L. Woods, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Payson, AZ 85541
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am currently working with adults and teenagers individually, as couples, in families, and in groups. My emphasis is in treating the whole person and in developing a plan based on proven treatment strategies. I have training in numerous treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, family systems therapy, behavioral therapy, gestalt, therapy, psycho-educational approaches, and group therapy. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief & loss, relationship issues, and employment concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am currently working with adults and teenagers individually, as couples, in families, and in groups. My emphasis is in treating the whole person and in developing a plan based on proven treatment strategies. I have training in numerous treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, family systems therapy, behavioral therapy, gestalt, therapy, psycho-educational approaches, and group therapy. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief & loss, relationship issues, and employment concerns.
(480) 409-2426 View (480) 409-2426
Photo of Tracey K Smith Hassett, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CCMHC, LCPC, LPC
Tracey K Smith Hassett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CCMHC, LCPC, LPC
Online Only
I am a senior clinical psychotherapist in my field (over 15 years), and I am licensed in 3 states (Arizona, Nevada & Texas). I’ve worked in both inpatient and outpatient hospitals managing patients in crisis, as well as carrying patients from acute care into long-term recovery. My specialties are substance abuse and dependency, dual diagnosis, codependency, trauma, marital and relationship tension and impulse control disorders. I am also in long-term recovery, which allows me to roll up my sleeves and work WITH you. I promise we can get to the other side together!
I am a senior clinical psychotherapist in my field (over 15 years), and I am licensed in 3 states (Arizona, Nevada & Texas). I’ve worked in both inpatient and outpatient hospitals managing patients in crisis, as well as carrying patients from acute care into long-term recovery. My specialties are substance abuse and dependency, dual diagnosis, codependency, trauma, marital and relationship tension and impulse control disorders. I am also in long-term recovery, which allows me to roll up my sleeves and work WITH you. I promise we can get to the other side together!
(520) 231-7877 View (520) 231-7877
Photo of Dr. Kim West, Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MDiv
Dr. Kim West
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MDiv
Payson, AZ 85541
If we could transform your life in three months, would you do it? We can heal trauma memories, rebuild your identity from the ground up and set you up for healthy relationships and an amazing future.
If we could transform your life in three months, would you do it? We can heal trauma memories, rebuild your identity from the ground up and set you up for healthy relationships and an amazing future.
(928) 222-5239 View (928) 222-5239
Photo of Layla Kleinman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Layla Kleinman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Payson, AZ 85541
I treat my clients with respect, compassion, with nonjudgment, and am supportive of their needs/goals for therapy. I have experience with people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADD/HD, bipolar, schizophrenia and borderline disorders. Creating a safe space for clients to express and identify treatment goals, process emotions and trauma, while learning mindfulness skills for better nervous system and emotional regulation has been beneficial for my clients. My preferred modalities are EMDR, mindfulness skills, DBT, CBT using parts perspectives and somatic activities/gentle yoga.
I treat my clients with respect, compassion, with nonjudgment, and am supportive of their needs/goals for therapy. I have experience with people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADD/HD, bipolar, schizophrenia and borderline disorders. Creating a safe space for clients to express and identify treatment goals, process emotions and trauma, while learning mindfulness skills for better nervous system and emotional regulation has been beneficial for my clients. My preferred modalities are EMDR, mindfulness skills, DBT, CBT using parts perspectives and somatic activities/gentle yoga.
(928) 218-3264 View (928) 218-3264
Photo of Amie Brandtjen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amie Brandtjen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Payson, AZ 85541
I offer psychodynamic therapy utilizing a holistic approach to care. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and have a personal passion for the LBGTQ+ community. I serve ages 18 - 100+. Helping people identify what they are experiencing and providing education, tools, and resources facilitates learning, growing and changing. Goal directed therapy promotes improved sense of power and control and can increase feelings of self-esteem. Assessing how the whole person is feeling and functioning allows for more expansive personal growth in a shorter course of care. I look forward to helping you to feel better fast!
I offer psychodynamic therapy utilizing a holistic approach to care. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and have a personal passion for the LBGTQ+ community. I serve ages 18 - 100+. Helping people identify what they are experiencing and providing education, tools, and resources facilitates learning, growing and changing. Goal directed therapy promotes improved sense of power and control and can increase feelings of self-esteem. Assessing how the whole person is feeling and functioning allows for more expansive personal growth in a shorter course of care. I look forward to helping you to feel better fast!
(928) 843-0656 View (928) 843-0656
Photo of Abigail Pederson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Abigail Pederson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Payson, AZ 85541
Hello and welcome! I'm glad you're here. We all face challenges in life. We desire closeness, connection, recognition, peace. Yet often these elude us. Instead, depression, anxiety, and lack of connection or meaning are familiar. We long to restore these connections and find success, even joy! It is my aim to come alongside my clients and their families, and support them in the journey back towards health and wholeness - to find tools to cope and grow in the present as well as build healing for a fulfilling future. I offer secular and faith-based therapy and love to incorporate each clients' individual faith into our work.
Hello and welcome! I'm glad you're here. We all face challenges in life. We desire closeness, connection, recognition, peace. Yet often these elude us. Instead, depression, anxiety, and lack of connection or meaning are familiar. We long to restore these connections and find success, even joy! It is my aim to come alongside my clients and their families, and support them in the journey back towards health and wholeness - to find tools to cope and grow in the present as well as build healing for a fulfilling future. I offer secular and faith-based therapy and love to incorporate each clients' individual faith into our work.
(928) 285-5608 View (928) 285-5608
Photo of Shannon Toy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Toy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
My name is Shannon Toy (she/her), M.Ed, LCSW. I prefer to be called by my middle name, Julianne. I graduated with a Master of Education from Concordia University in 2015 and a Masters in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. I work with a wide range of ages and populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I also specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ population. Areas of specialty include; anxiety, behavioral problems, stress management, trauma, adjusting to change, mood disorders. Preferred modalities include; cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused therapy, narrative, rational emotive
My name is Shannon Toy (she/her), M.Ed, LCSW. I prefer to be called by my middle name, Julianne. I graduated with a Master of Education from Concordia University in 2015 and a Masters in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. I work with a wide range of ages and populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I also specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ population. Areas of specialty include; anxiety, behavioral problems, stress management, trauma, adjusting to change, mood disorders. Preferred modalities include; cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused therapy, narrative, rational emotive
(667) 220-8079 View (667) 220-8079
Photo of Jessica Cronk, Counselor, LAC
Jessica Cronk
Counselor, LAC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you ready to find a calm, supportive space to start feeling like yourself again? Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by emotions such as anxiety, depression, or feeling chronically stressed. They often describe feeling stuck or controlled by their emotions rather than in control of them. For children and teens, these struggles can sometimes show up through withdrawal, irritability, acting out, or self-harming behaviors. It’s common to wish for an instant fix, a way to stop just surviving and start living fully again. Together, we’ll build practical tools for emotional regulation, strengthen your ability to cope.
Are you ready to find a calm, supportive space to start feeling like yourself again? Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by emotions such as anxiety, depression, or feeling chronically stressed. They often describe feeling stuck or controlled by their emotions rather than in control of them. For children and teens, these struggles can sometimes show up through withdrawal, irritability, acting out, or self-harming behaviors. It’s common to wish for an instant fix, a way to stop just surviving and start living fully again. Together, we’ll build practical tools for emotional regulation, strengthen your ability to cope.
(602) 854-9214 View (602) 854-9214
Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Serves Area
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) I can provide personalized and integrative therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is safe, non-judgmental, and fosters the growth of my clients. I will utilize evidenced based approaches and can work with you to address various challenges such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Let's work together to transform your relationships!
As a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) I can provide personalized and integrative therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is safe, non-judgmental, and fosters the growth of my clients. I will utilize evidenced based approaches and can work with you to address various challenges such as conflict resolution, grief, anxiety, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Let's work together to transform your relationships!
(480) 470-1709 View (480) 470-1709
Photo of Joanna Marie Doane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Joanna Marie Doane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
As many people have limited time to address their emotional well-being, my services are offered exclusively online. Due to a myriad of life circumstances, too many people also live with profound isolation. Do you find yourself thinking... “People don’t understand me,” “I don’t belong,” or “I’m not good enough.”? Do you feel closed off, excluded, or alone? Prior to seeking help many of my clients have ended up struggling at work, at home, in their relationships, or in all of the above. It is not uncommon for them to initially feel overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin in order to address their difficulties.
As many people have limited time to address their emotional well-being, my services are offered exclusively online. Due to a myriad of life circumstances, too many people also live with profound isolation. Do you find yourself thinking... “People don’t understand me,” “I don’t belong,” or “I’m not good enough.”? Do you feel closed off, excluded, or alone? Prior to seeking help many of my clients have ended up struggling at work, at home, in their relationships, or in all of the above. It is not uncommon for them to initially feel overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin in order to address their difficulties.
(602) 560-8002 View (602) 560-8002
Photo of Erica Marisella Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Erica Marisella Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide virtual therapy for clients across Arizona and also see clients in person and virtually through a group practice in Phoenix. This allows me to support those who prefer face-to-face sessions as well as those who need flexible online care. My approach centers on therapy tailored for neurodivergent minds, trauma recovery, and emotional wellness. If you’re feeling stuck in anxiety, burnout, impostor syndrome, or unhelpful thought loops—you’re not alone, and you don’t have to untangle it all by yourself. I offer creative, affirming, and results-focused therapy for children, teens, and adults.
I provide virtual therapy for clients across Arizona and also see clients in person and virtually through a group practice in Phoenix. This allows me to support those who prefer face-to-face sessions as well as those who need flexible online care. My approach centers on therapy tailored for neurodivergent minds, trauma recovery, and emotional wellness. If you’re feeling stuck in anxiety, burnout, impostor syndrome, or unhelpful thought loops—you’re not alone, and you don’t have to untangle it all by yourself. I offer creative, affirming, and results-focused therapy for children, teens, and adults.
(623) 304-6807 View (623) 304-6807
Photo of Jo Carthey, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jo Carthey
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I am continually amazed when people take the courageous step of hoping for change and asking for help with that change. I have been in the helping field for 38 years in various capacities. I have experiences that are rich and varied. I am able to draw upon those experiences to assist those adults and couples who are ready to take the plunge! Are you ready to dive in together?
I am continually amazed when people take the courageous step of hoping for change and asking for help with that change. I have been in the helping field for 38 years in various capacities. I have experiences that are rich and varied. I am able to draw upon those experiences to assist those adults and couples who are ready to take the plunge! Are you ready to dive in together?
(480) 637-3939 View (480) 637-3939

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ben Patrick Dickerson, Counselor, MA, MS, LAC
Ben Patrick Dickerson
Counselor, MA, MS, LAC
Young, AZ 85554
Immediate Openings for New Clients. Call for a free 15 minute consultation. I specialize in helping people to create stability in their families through supportive, in-depth therapy. I specialize in counseling therapy for Christian men and women struggling with marital strife, parenting challenges, sexual addiction, depression, and anxiety. I was an educator at the K-12 level for 20 years, so naturally I also counsel a lot of children and teenagers.
Immediate Openings for New Clients. Call for a free 15 minute consultation. I specialize in helping people to create stability in their families through supportive, in-depth therapy. I specialize in counseling therapy for Christian men and women struggling with marital strife, parenting challenges, sexual addiction, depression, and anxiety. I was an educator at the K-12 level for 20 years, so naturally I also counsel a lot of children and teenagers.
(602) 903-3340 View (602) 903-3340
Photo of Giselle Howard, Counselor, MA, LPC
Giselle Howard
Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling heavy emotionally? Do you long for healing? Our soul is the essence of who we are and the practice of honoring the soul involves several steps: to acknowledge it's pain, offering compassion instead of judgment, and to fight for it's healing. Therapy provides a safe place to learn this practice so that out of brokenness, there emerges an honored soul. Let's tend to your soul together.
Are you feeling heavy emotionally? Do you long for healing? Our soul is the essence of who we are and the practice of honoring the soul involves several steps: to acknowledge it's pain, offering compassion instead of judgment, and to fight for it's healing. Therapy provides a safe place to learn this practice so that out of brokenness, there emerges an honored soul. Let's tend to your soul together.
(928) 396-2599 View (928) 396-2599

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristen R Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MEd
Kristen R Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MEd
1 Endorsed
Globe, AZ 85501
I am passionate about helping all who feel stuck, lost, or forgotten. I firmly believe everyone deserves to find their voice, and to write their own story. I also know that sometimes help is needed to rewrite this story - which perhaps has gotten derailed through trauma and hard times - and I am ready to give that support. Personable and focused, I work side by side with my clients to help them create the movement they seek.
I am passionate about helping all who feel stuck, lost, or forgotten. I firmly believe everyone deserves to find their voice, and to write their own story. I also know that sometimes help is needed to rewrite this story - which perhaps has gotten derailed through trauma and hard times - and I am ready to give that support. Personable and focused, I work side by side with my clients to help them create the movement they seek.
(928) 212-5131 View (928) 212-5131
Photo of Nichole Villasana, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Nichole Villasana
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Phoenix, AZ 85004
As a compassionate and experienced LAMFT I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and postpartum mothers navigating the complexities of trauma symptoms showing up within their day to day lives. I strive to provide a nurturing, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore identity shifts, attachment challenges, emotional regulation, and relational dynamics during and after major life transitions.
As a compassionate and experienced LAMFT I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and postpartum mothers navigating the complexities of trauma symptoms showing up within their day to day lives. I strive to provide a nurturing, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore identity shifts, attachment challenges, emotional regulation, and relational dynamics during and after major life transitions.
(602) 962-9286 View (602) 962-9286
Photo of Nicole Ladner, Counselor, LAC
Nicole Ladner
Counselor, LAC
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Compassionate and nurturing with speciality in helping children, teens, and adults navigate life’s challenges with warmth, understanding, and authenticity. Earned Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Advanced training in complex trauma treatment, attachment science, love addiction and avoidance, and Level 1 EMDR therapist . Support clients in understanding their emotions, strengthening relationships, and developing a deeper sense of calm and connection within themselves.
Compassionate and nurturing with speciality in helping children, teens, and adults navigate life’s challenges with warmth, understanding, and authenticity. Earned Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Advanced training in complex trauma treatment, attachment science, love addiction and avoidance, and Level 1 EMDR therapist . Support clients in understanding their emotions, strengthening relationships, and developing a deeper sense of calm and connection within themselves.
(520) 602-9488 View (520) 602-9488

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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Payson, AZ

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Payson, AZ who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
80% Anxiety
67% Trauma and PTSD
53% Family Conflict
47% Relationship Issues
47% Stress
40% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Payson, AZ see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Payson?

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.