Therapists in Coos Bay, OR

Photo of Jennifer von Felden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Jennifer von Felden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CCTP, LPC
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
This is a significant first step in a journey towards healing, growth, and well-being. I believe each person has strengths that can be directed to make the desired changes they want in their lives. We can work together to clarify and prioritize your concerns, develop goals, and identify strengths and resources to help bring you closer to the life you want to live.
This is a significant first step in a journey towards healing, growth, and well-being. I believe each person has strengths that can be directed to make the desired changes they want in their lives. We can work together to clarify and prioritize your concerns, develop goals, and identify strengths and resources to help bring you closer to the life you want to live.
(541) 236-9604 View (541) 236-9604
Photo of Dr. Susan Stuntzner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Dr. Susan Stuntzner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Greetings! Counseling is an exciting and personal journey! Each of us can find the answers we seek and desire! I have a wide breadth of experience in helping people live with and move past a disability or difficult life events. I believe that every individual has the ability to face and address their concerns in pursuit of a healthier, happier, and more peaceful way of life. I utilize an eclectic approach, but I have a strong focus on person-centered, cognitive-behavior, and existentialistic components and an emphasis on solution-focus approaches and strategies that help promote forgiveness, self-compassion, and resilience.
Greetings! Counseling is an exciting and personal journey! Each of us can find the answers we seek and desire! I have a wide breadth of experience in helping people live with and move past a disability or difficult life events. I believe that every individual has the ability to face and address their concerns in pursuit of a healthier, happier, and more peaceful way of life. I utilize an eclectic approach, but I have a strong focus on person-centered, cognitive-behavior, and existentialistic components and an emphasis on solution-focus approaches and strategies that help promote forgiveness, self-compassion, and resilience.
(541) 313-3142 View (541) 313-3142
Photo of Suzann Robins in Coos Bay, OR
Suzann Robins
MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Relationship issues arise from different aspects of our lives at home and at work. Are you a couple wanting to clarify your relationship? Or a single person longing for more connection? Do you work with difficult people or have trouble relating to those who think differently? The first step is increased self-knowledge. Disagreements may stem from loss of trust, unbalanced time commitments, or communication upsets. When personality dynamics are considered, we find resolution. Do you struggle with intimacy issues or sexual problems? We can work toward long term results using an effective mind/body/spiritual/emotional approach.
Relationship issues arise from different aspects of our lives at home and at work. Are you a couple wanting to clarify your relationship? Or a single person longing for more connection? Do you work with difficult people or have trouble relating to those who think differently? The first step is increased self-knowledge. Disagreements may stem from loss of trust, unbalanced time commitments, or communication upsets. When personality dynamics are considered, we find resolution. Do you struggle with intimacy issues or sexual problems? We can work toward long term results using an effective mind/body/spiritual/emotional approach.
(458) 217-8750 View (458) 217-8750
Photo of Elizabeth Sunzeri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Coos Bay, OR
Elizabeth Sunzeri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Elizabeth Sunzeri founded Heather Hills Therapy Center in Coos Bay, Oregon. She was a nurse and is now an LMFT providing assessments and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. She also treats compound complicated grief. Elizabeth provides psychosocial bariatrics assessments for Dr. Tersigni and is a member of his task force. She created "Train Your Brain", a CBT class for patients attending Bay Area Hospital's community education. She is a member of the Society of Behavioral Medicine.
Elizabeth Sunzeri founded Heather Hills Therapy Center in Coos Bay, Oregon. She was a nurse and is now an LMFT providing assessments and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. She also treats compound complicated grief. Elizabeth provides psychosocial bariatrics assessments for Dr. Tersigni and is a member of his task force. She created "Train Your Brain", a CBT class for patients attending Bay Area Hospital's community education. She is a member of the Society of Behavioral Medicine.
(541) 246-9037 View (541) 246-9037
Photo of Greg Garrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Coos Bay, OR
Greg Garrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Not accepting new clients
I provide an authentic therapeutic relationship in a safe and comfortable setting as a provider for Coos Health and Wellness. I have had the privilege of working with many incredible people of all ages, and with many healing families as well, and have experience working with groups of people in various settings. I seek to meet you from a place of respect, empathetic understanding, and genuine interest your needs as well as your hopes and goals. Currently, I am only working with adolescents as well as transitional aged youth and families, however I plan to begin working with adults as well, in the near future, in private practice.
I provide an authentic therapeutic relationship in a safe and comfortable setting as a provider for Coos Health and Wellness. I have had the privilege of working with many incredible people of all ages, and with many healing families as well, and have experience working with groups of people in various settings. I seek to meet you from a place of respect, empathetic understanding, and genuine interest your needs as well as your hopes and goals. Currently, I am only working with adolescents as well as transitional aged youth and families, however I plan to begin working with adults as well, in the near future, in private practice.
(541) 287-7611 View (541) 287-7611
Photo of Rev. Dr. Karen Love Baisinger, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Rev. Dr. Karen Love Baisinger
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MDiv, DMin, QMHP
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
NEW psycho-spiritual process groups now forming. Receive the support in compassionate community that you need to make life changes. Challenged by grief? Suffering due to parent/adult child estrangement? Grief comes in many forms, from the losses of aging, a loved one from death, divorce or estrangement, conflicted relationships, and other manifestations of impermanence, change. Collectively, we struggle with eco-anxiety and climate grief, consciously or unconsciously. Walk with a trusted, experienced guide and compassionate ally on your path of healing.
NEW psycho-spiritual process groups now forming. Receive the support in compassionate community that you need to make life changes. Challenged by grief? Suffering due to parent/adult child estrangement? Grief comes in many forms, from the losses of aging, a loved one from death, divorce or estrangement, conflicted relationships, and other manifestations of impermanence, change. Collectively, we struggle with eco-anxiety and climate grief, consciously or unconsciously. Walk with a trusted, experienced guide and compassionate ally on your path of healing.
(541) 329-1407 View (541) 329-1407
Photo of All Tribes Mental Health Svcs, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Coos Bay, OR
All Tribes Mental Health Svcs, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
We are a 501 (c) 3 Nonprofit Mental Health Services agency open to All Colors, All Cultures, & All Tribes. The oppressed, discriminated, and assimilated are welcome. BIPOCC (Black, Indigenous, and Peoples of other Colors and Cultures), You matter to us. All Tribes offers information and referrals to culturally focused, client centered BIPOCC treatment providers in your area, with the goal being to help people feel better again. We have one "in-house" therapist as well, offering Individual & Group Therapy through telehealth. It is possible to heal and to feel better.
We are a 501 (c) 3 Nonprofit Mental Health Services agency open to All Colors, All Cultures, & All Tribes. The oppressed, discriminated, and assimilated are welcome. BIPOCC (Black, Indigenous, and Peoples of other Colors and Cultures), You matter to us. All Tribes offers information and referrals to culturally focused, client centered BIPOCC treatment providers in your area, with the goal being to help people feel better again. We have one "in-house" therapist as well, offering Individual & Group Therapy through telehealth. It is possible to heal and to feel better.
(541) 860-6896 View (541) 860-6896
Photo of Brigett W Hollander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Coos Bay, OR
Brigett W Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Compassionate empathetic registered Clinical Supervisor and mental health therapist with over twenty years experience working with a variety of patients/populations dealing with mental health issues and interpersonal relationship problems. Able to provide professional guidance and encouragement to help facilitate change and solutions to life problems. Further experience helping people with past trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems, and unhealthy relationship patterns/behaviors or limited coping skills. Currently accepting Supervisees for clinical supervision working towards licensure.
Compassionate empathetic registered Clinical Supervisor and mental health therapist with over twenty years experience working with a variety of patients/populations dealing with mental health issues and interpersonal relationship problems. Able to provide professional guidance and encouragement to help facilitate change and solutions to life problems. Further experience helping people with past trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems, and unhealthy relationship patterns/behaviors or limited coping skills. Currently accepting Supervisees for clinical supervision working towards licensure.
(541) 377-1856 View (541) 377-1856
Photo of Hope Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Hope Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCII
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Welcome, and congratulations on taking an active step toward improving your life and your sense of wellbeing and happiness! As a counselor, it is my job to partner with you, and to create a safe, non judgmental space to explore whats happening in your life. Through this process, you will gain valuable insights and a sense of hope and clarity.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking an active step toward improving your life and your sense of wellbeing and happiness! As a counselor, it is my job to partner with you, and to create a safe, non judgmental space to explore whats happening in your life. Through this process, you will gain valuable insights and a sense of hope and clarity.
(541) 952-3749 View (541) 952-3749
Photo of Merri L Seegrist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Coos Bay, OR
Merri L Seegrist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through the establishment of realistic goals, boundaries and expectations. I will help you gain a new level of self-compassion to promote healing, and ultimately, to restore peace in your life. I specialize in Trauma & PTSD, First responders, Substance abuse, Suicidal ideation, Narcissistic abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Post-partum, Faith crises Religious trauma, Betrayal trauma, Relationships, Negative core beliefs, Negative coping skills, LGBT+, Grief & loss, Eating disorders, Parenting, Mindfulness based therapy, ADHD, and Dissociative Disorders.
Through the establishment of realistic goals, boundaries and expectations. I will help you gain a new level of self-compassion to promote healing, and ultimately, to restore peace in your life. I specialize in Trauma & PTSD, First responders, Substance abuse, Suicidal ideation, Narcissistic abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Post-partum, Faith crises Religious trauma, Betrayal trauma, Relationships, Negative core beliefs, Negative coping skills, LGBT+, Grief & loss, Eating disorders, Parenting, Mindfulness based therapy, ADHD, and Dissociative Disorders.
(458) 235-4392 View (458) 235-4392
Photo of Jamie LeDoux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Jamie LeDoux
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Exploring your options for counseling is an important first step to take, and I am glad that you are here. I believe that my role in our work together is to create a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space for you to explore your strengths, goals, concerns and areas of life that you want to gain insight into so that you can move toward making meaningful changes that take you to where you want to be.
Exploring your options for counseling is an important first step to take, and I am glad that you are here. I believe that my role in our work together is to create a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space for you to explore your strengths, goals, concerns and areas of life that you want to gain insight into so that you can move toward making meaningful changes that take you to where you want to be.
(541) 403-8024 View (541) 403-8024
Photo of Megan Carr, LPC Intern in Coos Bay, OR
Megan Carr
LPC Intern, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (Online Only)
I believe life is not just made up of one- but many journeys and the experiences along the way. I enjoy working with individuals who have a multitude of different experiences, cultures, and backgrounds and will incorporate the most important aspects of your identity to ensure your treatment is in alignment with your core beliefs and values.
I believe life is not just made up of one- but many journeys and the experiences along the way. I enjoy working with individuals who have a multitude of different experiences, cultures, and backgrounds and will incorporate the most important aspects of your identity to ensure your treatment is in alignment with your core beliefs and values.
(541) 502-3626 View (541) 502-3626
Photo of Dr. Daniel Emmett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Dr. Daniel Emmett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Individuals and families, regardless of current challenges, if open to collaborate, introspect, and apply changes, clients will develop into a better version of their self.
Individuals and families, regardless of current challenges, if open to collaborate, introspect, and apply changes, clients will develop into a better version of their self.
(541) 651-8957 View (541) 651-8957
Photo of Root Insights Counseling, Professional Counselor Associate in Coos Bay, OR
Root Insights Counseling
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coos Bay, OR 97420
I consider psychotherapy to be a collaborative effort between client and therapist. My name is Jacob and I founded Root Insights because I view my clients as experts of their own lives, I believe in your ability to make choices for yourself. My approach is positive, integrative, and holistic. A holistic approach to therapy looks at issues concerning mind, body and spirit. For example: Mind – People tend to feel the way they think. Negative feelings like guilt, anger, and depression may not result from the things that happen, but from the way you think about these events. This simple but revolutionary idea can change your life.
I consider psychotherapy to be a collaborative effort between client and therapist. My name is Jacob and I founded Root Insights because I view my clients as experts of their own lives, I believe in your ability to make choices for yourself. My approach is positive, integrative, and holistic. A holistic approach to therapy looks at issues concerning mind, body and spirit. For example: Mind – People tend to feel the way they think. Negative feelings like guilt, anger, and depression may not result from the things that happen, but from the way you think about these events. This simple but revolutionary idea can change your life.
(541) 449-9843 View (541) 449-9843
Photo of Corina Daugherty Calhoun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Coos Bay, OR
Corina Daugherty Calhoun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm so glad you're here. I believe in your inner knowing and capacity for growth. If you are feeling alone in the darkness, I will bring a flashlight. If you are overwhelmed with blaring thoughts of anxiety or stress, I'll be there to help you adjust the volume. If you can't seem to escape the tangles of your past, I'm there with my weedwacker. Let's partner to explore & remove barriers that may be dimming your inner spark. Healing often involves laughter, I trust we will build ease & levity together. I wholeheartedly welcome and celebrate LGBTQIA+ individuals, & am deeply committed to social justice, equity, and anti-racism.
I'm so glad you're here. I believe in your inner knowing and capacity for growth. If you are feeling alone in the darkness, I will bring a flashlight. If you are overwhelmed with blaring thoughts of anxiety or stress, I'll be there to help you adjust the volume. If you can't seem to escape the tangles of your past, I'm there with my weedwacker. Let's partner to explore & remove barriers that may be dimming your inner spark. Healing often involves laughter, I trust we will build ease & levity together. I wholeheartedly welcome and celebrate LGBTQIA+ individuals, & am deeply committed to social justice, equity, and anti-racism.
(971) 266-4355 View (971) 266-4355
Photo of Andrea Rae Gardner-Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Andrea Rae Gardner-Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Andrea Gardner-Young, LPC, brings 10 years of experience as a mental health counselor, specializing in online therapy. Serving individuals in Oregon and Utah, I create a space where healing and growth intersect. No need for fancy settings or time constraints – therapy adapts to your life. If you're navigating worries, stress, or self-doubt, I offer a safe haven within your own environment.
Andrea Gardner-Young, LPC, brings 10 years of experience as a mental health counselor, specializing in online therapy. Serving individuals in Oregon and Utah, I create a space where healing and growth intersect. No need for fancy settings or time constraints – therapy adapts to your life. If you're navigating worries, stress, or self-doubt, I offer a safe haven within your own environment.
(541) 325-8471 View (541) 325-8471
Photo of Dr. Jana Lynn Rivers-Norton, Professional Counselor Associate in Coos Bay, OR
Dr. Jana Lynn Rivers-Norton
Professional Counselor Associate, PhD, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Not accepting new clients
I am here to accompany you on your journey toward healing, to stand with you as you explore and work through any challenges or difficulties you may face. I offer a compassionate person-centered approach to help promote resiliency, personal growth, and empowerment. I am here to listen to your concerns, to provide support tailored to your personal life circumstances and to help you reach your goals within a caring and attentive environment.
I am here to accompany you on your journey toward healing, to stand with you as you explore and work through any challenges or difficulties you may face. I offer a compassionate person-centered approach to help promote resiliency, personal growth, and empowerment. I am here to listen to your concerns, to provide support tailored to your personal life circumstances and to help you reach your goals within a caring and attentive environment.
(541) 896-4942 View (541) 896-4942
Photo of Susan M Chappelear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Susan M Chappelear
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC-1
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Not accepting new clients
I believe that every person holds the capacity for change and growth. I also believe that there is an intricate interaction between the emotional, physical, mental and spiritual aspects within every person and that imbalance in any or all of these areas can lead to distress, disrupt family functioning, prevent change or stunt growth. My role as a counselor is to help you explore, evaluate and gain insight into these areas of the self as well as help you learn new techniques and skills that help you manage intense emotions and responses.
I believe that every person holds the capacity for change and growth. I also believe that there is an intricate interaction between the emotional, physical, mental and spiritual aspects within every person and that imbalance in any or all of these areas can lead to distress, disrupt family functioning, prevent change or stunt growth. My role as a counselor is to help you explore, evaluate and gain insight into these areas of the self as well as help you learn new techniques and skills that help you manage intense emotions and responses.
(541) 204-4887 View (541) 204-4887
Photo of Stronger Oregon - statewide telehealth , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Coos Bay, OR
Stronger Oregon - statewide telehealth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I can help people who realize that some things in their life are not working and need to change. The world has shifted and we need to adapt to rapidly changing events beyond our control; as well as get some daily relief from the ongoing stress, anxiety, poor sleep and depression many people face daily. I help people who realize that some things in their life are not working and need to change. Since February 2020 I have been doing remote Teletherapy with adults and older teens and found it works to help people change their lives. Be prepared to do your homework I assign between our sessions, so you can progress at your own pace.
I can help people who realize that some things in their life are not working and need to change. The world has shifted and we need to adapt to rapidly changing events beyond our control; as well as get some daily relief from the ongoing stress, anxiety, poor sleep and depression many people face daily. I help people who realize that some things in their life are not working and need to change. Since February 2020 I have been doing remote Teletherapy with adults and older teens and found it works to help people change their lives. Be prepared to do your homework I assign between our sessions, so you can progress at your own pace.
(458) 224-5766 View (458) 224-5766
Photo of Sharilyn Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Coos Bay, OR
Sharilyn Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Coos Bay, OR 97420
We all have issues in our lives and face challenges. It takes courage to act upon the knowlege that we may need some assistance at times. I believe in the uniqueness of individuals in their own personal lives and cultural environments. I consider the relationship with the client to be the most important part of counseling success. It is important for the client to feel safe, and trust their sessions will remain confidential. People have the ability to make positive changes in their lives, especially if they feel understood and accepted. .
We all have issues in our lives and face challenges. It takes courage to act upon the knowlege that we may need some assistance at times. I believe in the uniqueness of individuals in their own personal lives and cultural environments. I consider the relationship with the client to be the most important part of counseling success. It is important for the client to feel safe, and trust their sessions will remain confidential. People have the ability to make positive changes in their lives, especially if they feel understood and accepted. .
(541) 290-9707 View (541) 290-9707

See more therapy options for Coos Bay

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Coos Bay, OR

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Coos Bay, OR who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
87% Trauma and PTSD
87% Stress
81% Coping Skills
74% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
65% PacificSource
62% Medicaid

How Therapists in Coos Bay, OR see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Coos Bay?

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.