Therapists in Barrington, IL

Photo of Dave Evans, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Dave Evans
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Experiencing personal or relationship distress? Are you having trouble with anxiety, stress, or conflicting emotions? With my help, you can reclaim and enjoy your life! I provide a safe and caring place for my clients to deal with difficult, real-life issues. We collaborate to help shift your life and circumstances in the direction you want to move. We work together to address problems which are affecting day-to-day living, and explore situations and conflicts which cause internal and relational struggles. We also develop your strengths, and build strategies which will improve your sense of clarity and well-being.
Experiencing personal or relationship distress? Are you having trouble with anxiety, stress, or conflicting emotions? With my help, you can reclaim and enjoy your life! I provide a safe and caring place for my clients to deal with difficult, real-life issues. We collaborate to help shift your life and circumstances in the direction you want to move. We work together to address problems which are affecting day-to-day living, and explore situations and conflicts which cause internal and relational struggles. We also develop your strengths, and build strategies which will improve your sense of clarity and well-being.
(847) 558-6159 View (847) 558-6159
Photo of Kary R. Miller, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Kary R. Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
(224) 619-3843 View (224) 619-3843
Photo of Jaclyn Biggott, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Jaclyn Biggott
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I believe in the inherent strength within each person. Using a balance of warmth and humor, I work collaboratively with clients to help them discover beliefs, patterns, and behaviors that might be impeding resilience and personal growth. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space where you can openly explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My approach is personable, rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices that foster connection. I strive to help my clients feel empowered as they navigate through all of life’s ups and downs.
I believe in the inherent strength within each person. Using a balance of warmth and humor, I work collaboratively with clients to help them discover beliefs, patterns, and behaviors that might be impeding resilience and personal growth. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space where you can openly explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My approach is personable, rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices that foster connection. I strive to help my clients feel empowered as they navigate through all of life’s ups and downs.
(224) 478-1970 View (224) 478-1970
Photo of Barbara Spaulding, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Barbara Spaulding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Anxiety, Coach
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
(224) 385-0692 View (224) 385-0692
Photo of Jason D Spencer, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Jason D Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Not accepting new clients
Depression, anxiety and panic attacks are NOT a sign of weakness, they are a sign that we have tried to remain too strong for too long. As a therapist having worked in the rewarding field of mental health for many years, I have discovered that clients hold the key to their own recovery. I would welcome the opportunity and privilege to walk with you on your life path as together we determine the best method for helping you. As an eclectic therapist, I believe in using a variety of therapies to find what works best for you.
Depression, anxiety and panic attacks are NOT a sign of weakness, they are a sign that we have tried to remain too strong for too long. As a therapist having worked in the rewarding field of mental health for many years, I have discovered that clients hold the key to their own recovery. I would welcome the opportunity and privilege to walk with you on your life path as together we determine the best method for helping you. As an eclectic therapist, I believe in using a variety of therapies to find what works best for you.
(847) 380-7386 View (847) 380-7386
Photo of Jennifer Martin, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Jennifer Martin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
A little bit of anxiety might be helpful to motivate you to study for a test, prepare for a work presentation, or make sure everything is locked up before you go away on a trip. However, excessive anxiety can become so difficult to manage that your day is ruled by your symptoms. If you are someone that finds your anxiety interfering with your daily life, I can help you manage your worries so that you can enjoy what actually matters to you.
A little bit of anxiety might be helpful to motivate you to study for a test, prepare for a work presentation, or make sure everything is locked up before you go away on a trip. However, excessive anxiety can become so difficult to manage that your day is ruled by your symptoms. If you are someone that finds your anxiety interfering with your daily life, I can help you manage your worries so that you can enjoy what actually matters to you.
(847) 242-2357 View (847) 242-2357
Photo of LaVetta M Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
LaVetta M Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Throughout life’s journey, our experiences shape and mold our beliefs and understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Often, we can seamlessly integrate these experiences into a deeper sense of self and navigate life more effectively. However, there are moments when we encounter challenges that disrupt our self-confidence and sense of security, leaving us feeling adrift and powerless. Choosing to embark on the therapeutic journey can be a profound step towards self-care and resilience in the face of these difficult moments.
Throughout life’s journey, our experiences shape and mold our beliefs and understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Often, we can seamlessly integrate these experiences into a deeper sense of self and navigate life more effectively. However, there are moments when we encounter challenges that disrupt our self-confidence and sense of security, leaving us feeling adrift and powerless. Choosing to embark on the therapeutic journey can be a profound step towards self-care and resilience in the face of these difficult moments.
(224) 655-2655 x14 View (224) 655-2655 x14
Photo of Natalie Sum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Natalie Sum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I have daytime and evening hours and also offer telehealth appointments. I am passionate about guiding clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, self-esteem, complicated grief, and family of origin issues toward healing and freedom. I enjoy teaching individuals how to recognize and release themselves from repeating destructive coping patterns in their current relationships.
I have daytime and evening hours and also offer telehealth appointments. I am passionate about guiding clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, self-esteem, complicated grief, and family of origin issues toward healing and freedom. I enjoy teaching individuals how to recognize and release themselves from repeating destructive coping patterns in their current relationships.
(224) 864-9437 View (224) 864-9437
Photo of Stephen Kaleb Pollum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Stephen Kaleb Pollum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Kaleb Pollum is a licensed clinical social worker with experience helping individuals overcome obstacles such as depression, stress, anxiety, identity issues, interpersonal relationships, and effectively managing mood and personality disorders. He specializes in treating borderline personality disorder. Kaleb desires to build meaningful, therapeutic relationships so that his clients can feel at ease and find clarity in their thinking. He utilizes evidence-based and trauma-informed practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, in-depth psychoanalysis, and adapted dialectical behavior therapy to accomplish this.
Kaleb Pollum is a licensed clinical social worker with experience helping individuals overcome obstacles such as depression, stress, anxiety, identity issues, interpersonal relationships, and effectively managing mood and personality disorders. He specializes in treating borderline personality disorder. Kaleb desires to build meaningful, therapeutic relationships so that his clients can feel at ease and find clarity in their thinking. He utilizes evidence-based and trauma-informed practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, in-depth psychoanalysis, and adapted dialectical behavior therapy to accomplish this.
(224) 255-2622 View (224) 255-2622
Photo of McCall Barsamian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Barrington, IL
McCall Barsamian, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
McCall Barsamian is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who works with couples and individual adults. Her open, empathic, interactive, and respectful approach focuses on collaborating with clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships in order to bring about the transformation they seek. McCall has extensive, hands-on-training from world-renown Psychotherapists and clinical experience in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) with both couples and individuals. McCall also uses a variety of other Empirically Supported Approaches as she sees fit.
McCall Barsamian is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who works with couples and individual adults. Her open, empathic, interactive, and respectful approach focuses on collaborating with clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships in order to bring about the transformation they seek. McCall has extensive, hands-on-training from world-renown Psychotherapists and clinical experience in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) with both couples and individuals. McCall also uses a variety of other Empirically Supported Approaches as she sees fit.
(224) 332-3443 View (224) 332-3443
Photo of Kaleb Pollum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Kaleb Pollum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Kaleb Pollum is a licensed social worker with experience helping individuals overcome obstacles such as depression, stress, anxiety, communication issues, interpersonal relationships, and effectively managing mood and personality disorders. He specializes in treating borderline personality disorder. Kaleb desires to build meaningful, therapeutic relationships so that his clients can feel at ease and find clarity in their thinking. He utilizes evidence-based and trauma-informed practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, in-depth psychoanalysis, and adapted dialectical behavior therapy to accomplish this.
Kaleb Pollum is a licensed social worker with experience helping individuals overcome obstacles such as depression, stress, anxiety, communication issues, interpersonal relationships, and effectively managing mood and personality disorders. He specializes in treating borderline personality disorder. Kaleb desires to build meaningful, therapeutic relationships so that his clients can feel at ease and find clarity in their thinking. He utilizes evidence-based and trauma-informed practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, in-depth psychoanalysis, and adapted dialectical behavior therapy to accomplish this.
(224) 864-8492 View (224) 864-8492
Photo of Stephen Borgman, LCPC, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Stephen Borgman, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Michael had felt lifelong stress, nightmares, jitteriness, and struggles with past traumatic events. On top of that, he was struggling with a new promotion at work, and he wasn’t getting along with his boss. He’d started yelling at his wife more, and his kids were starting to avoid him. He wanted help, and fast. Practical, empathetic, and non-judgemental help. Do you feel like Michael? You're not alone! According to a study cited by Good Therapy, over 14% of men experience some type of mental health problem. That’s almost 2 in every 10 men!
Michael had felt lifelong stress, nightmares, jitteriness, and struggles with past traumatic events. On top of that, he was struggling with a new promotion at work, and he wasn’t getting along with his boss. He’d started yelling at his wife more, and his kids were starting to avoid him. He wanted help, and fast. Practical, empathetic, and non-judgemental help. Do you feel like Michael? You're not alone! According to a study cited by Good Therapy, over 14% of men experience some type of mental health problem. That’s almost 2 in every 10 men!
(847) 386-2126 View (847) 386-2126
Photo of Kavita C Bosamiya, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Kavita C Bosamiya
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I believe that we all have an inherent ability to heal deeply, oftentimes we just need a safe environment to begin to open and step on this healing journey. When we realize that disoriented parts of ourselves cause imbalance and problems, the awareness itself leads the way to becoming whole and come home to ourselves. As we move through the story of life in time and space, we carry the past to the present and the present to the future. Our bodies – physical and subtle hold so much of our stories beneath the surface. My goal, using somatic-based approaches, is to help you reattune to our existential wisdom and bring lasting change.
I believe that we all have an inherent ability to heal deeply, oftentimes we just need a safe environment to begin to open and step on this healing journey. When we realize that disoriented parts of ourselves cause imbalance and problems, the awareness itself leads the way to becoming whole and come home to ourselves. As we move through the story of life in time and space, we carry the past to the present and the present to the future. Our bodies – physical and subtle hold so much of our stories beneath the surface. My goal, using somatic-based approaches, is to help you reattune to our existential wisdom and bring lasting change.
(815) 384-4549 x7 View (815) 384-4549 x7
Photo of Diana Escobedo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Diana Escobedo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
You are capable of so much. We all are. When life becomes overwhelming, you may be challenged with feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, lack of motivation and so much more. Talking to a therapist can help you get through these challenging times. I am a licensed therapist with a background in art therapy and counseling. My goal as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space in order to work together through whatever may be causing you emotional difficulties. I have experience working with children, young adults, families and teenagers.
You are capable of so much. We all are. When life becomes overwhelming, you may be challenged with feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, lack of motivation and so much more. Talking to a therapist can help you get through these challenging times. I am a licensed therapist with a background in art therapy and counseling. My goal as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space in order to work together through whatever may be causing you emotional difficulties. I have experience working with children, young adults, families and teenagers.
(815) 893-9165 View (815) 893-9165
Photo of Mental Health Solutions, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Mental Health Solutions
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I am available to help guide you in living a more complete and satisfying life. Utilizing a warm, conversational approach, I am happy to assist with overcoming difficulties such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, behavioral concerns, and low self esteem. I can also provide an in depth psychological assessment to elicit greater insight and clarify your treatment plan recommendations. I look forward to opening doors so you may help you.
I am available to help guide you in living a more complete and satisfying life. Utilizing a warm, conversational approach, I am happy to assist with overcoming difficulties such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, behavioral concerns, and low self esteem. I can also provide an in depth psychological assessment to elicit greater insight and clarify your treatment plan recommendations. I look forward to opening doors so you may help you.
(224) 643-0763 x619 View (224) 643-0763 x619
Photo of James Garrett LCPC, Counselor in Barrington, IL
James Garrett LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
You may be feeling sad, worried, frustrated, angry, confused, stressed, or simply feeling down on yourself. You may be experiencing difficulties in important relationships or simply feeling that a relationship is not meeting your needs. Maybe you're here out of concern for a family member or friend who could benefit from the help of a therapist. Or maybe your reason for being here is entirely different. My name is Jim Garrett, and I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor and psychotherapist. I help people with a wide range of concerns, and I'll be very happy to help you.
You may be feeling sad, worried, frustrated, angry, confused, stressed, or simply feeling down on yourself. You may be experiencing difficulties in important relationships or simply feeling that a relationship is not meeting your needs. Maybe you're here out of concern for a family member or friend who could benefit from the help of a therapist. Or maybe your reason for being here is entirely different. My name is Jim Garrett, and I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor and psychotherapist. I help people with a wide range of concerns, and I'll be very happy to help you.
(847) 382-0600 View (847) 382-0600
Photo of Jared Pulley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Jared Pulley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ASAT
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Jared brings over 10 years of experience in mental health to support individuals and couples through life's difficulties and mental health concerns. His approach focuses on the nervous system, helping you reduce anxiety, depression, and the impact of trauma. Jared has a particular interest in supporting people facing complex medical situations, such as cancer and infertility. He understands how these life-altering conditions can lead to spiritual or existential struggles. With respect for your traditions and individual needs, he's committed to guiding you through these challenges if desired.
Jared brings over 10 years of experience in mental health to support individuals and couples through life's difficulties and mental health concerns. His approach focuses on the nervous system, helping you reduce anxiety, depression, and the impact of trauma. Jared has a particular interest in supporting people facing complex medical situations, such as cancer and infertility. He understands how these life-altering conditions can lead to spiritual or existential struggles. With respect for your traditions and individual needs, he's committed to guiding you through these challenges if desired.
(224) 243-7182 View (224) 243-7182
Photo of Debbie Chirikos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Debbie Chirikos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I am a career social worker who has worked in richly diverse practice settings for 40 years. I can help address generalized anxiety, depression, grief and relationship challenges. I offer mostly solution focused and thus forward facing intervention to help you address your current distress. I prefer cognitive based approaches that address thinking distortions that often contribute to painful feelings and troubling behaviors.
I am a career social worker who has worked in richly diverse practice settings for 40 years. I can help address generalized anxiety, depression, grief and relationship challenges. I offer mostly solution focused and thus forward facing intervention to help you address your current distress. I prefer cognitive based approaches that address thinking distortions that often contribute to painful feelings and troubling behaviors.
(847) 325-5606 View (847) 325-5606
Photo of Edward DeBellis, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Edward DeBellis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I have over 30 years of experience treating anxiety, anger, stress, trauma, and sadness and helping improve relationships and enjoyment of life. I can help you find relief from poor self-image, fears, and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. I also offer help with smoking cessation and performance enhancement. If you are ready to change destructive patterns, getting relief is easier than you might expect. I participate actively in the process by offering feedback designed to increase insight into what drives troubling behavior, conflictual relationships, and symptoms.
I have over 30 years of experience treating anxiety, anger, stress, trauma, and sadness and helping improve relationships and enjoyment of life. I can help you find relief from poor self-image, fears, and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. I also offer help with smoking cessation and performance enhancement. If you are ready to change destructive patterns, getting relief is easier than you might expect. I participate actively in the process by offering feedback designed to increase insight into what drives troubling behavior, conflictual relationships, and symptoms.
(224) 243-3942 View (224) 243-3942
Photo of Sarah Arden Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Sarah Arden Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
No one should be expected to face life's challenges alone. My experience has proven that therapy is most effective when it is collaborative and tailored to the unique needs of the client. Together, we will develop and equip you with personalized strategies to understand and break free of the challenges that prevent you from living your authentic life. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who want to create a better life for themselves.
No one should be expected to face life's challenges alone. My experience has proven that therapy is most effective when it is collaborative and tailored to the unique needs of the client. Together, we will develop and equip you with personalized strategies to understand and break free of the challenges that prevent you from living your authentic life. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who want to create a better life for themselves.
(773) 345-7640 View (773) 345-7640

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Barrington, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Barrington, IL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
69% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
64% Stress

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Aetna
54% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Barrington, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Barrington?

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.