Therapists in Bend, OR

Photo of Alicia Viani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bend, OR
Alicia Viani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
It is courageous to work towards healthier and more joyful connections with self and others. It is possible to thrive even while managing personal or relationship trauma, loss, stress, and difficult transition in life. I provide support for you while you increase capacity to heal, support yourself, and co-create resilient safe relationships with loved ones. My role as a therapist is to protect a safe environment for your work, to co-create relationship built on a bond of trust, authenticity and security, to provide empathy and be assertively challenging.
It is courageous to work towards healthier and more joyful connections with self and others. It is possible to thrive even while managing personal or relationship trauma, loss, stress, and difficult transition in life. I provide support for you while you increase capacity to heal, support yourself, and co-create resilient safe relationships with loved ones. My role as a therapist is to protect a safe environment for your work, to co-create relationship built on a bond of trust, authenticity and security, to provide empathy and be assertively challenging.
(541) 515-7873 View (541) 515-7873
Photo of Abby Levin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Abby Levin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us show the world only a small fraction of who we really are. It's easy to feel the pressure to conform or hide certain aspects of ourselves. My goal for therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to be your complete self, without the fear of judgment or rejection. I hope that working together will not only alleviate the pain and discomfort you may be feeling right now, but also push you to grow in new ways.
Many of us show the world only a small fraction of who we really are. It's easy to feel the pressure to conform or hide certain aspects of ourselves. My goal for therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to be your complete self, without the fear of judgment or rejection. I hope that working together will not only alleviate the pain and discomfort you may be feeling right now, but also push you to grow in new ways.
(458) 219-8590 View (458) 219-8590
Photo of Devan Larsen, Moments of Grace Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bend, OR
Devan Larsen, Moments of Grace Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
Waitlist for new clients
My passion has always been working with wounded hearts, helping those in broken and what seem like hopeless situations find light and meaning for their lives. I believe that trauma plays a major role in how we perceive the world and can greatly influence our choices and relationships. I have a passion for working with couples and believe that every marriage can be strengthened and thrive. I take a grace-filled, non-judgmental, collaborative approach to therapy and believe that every person, no matter their situation, can find healing and hope in the midst of their circumstances and I consider it a honor to walk alongside of you.
My passion has always been working with wounded hearts, helping those in broken and what seem like hopeless situations find light and meaning for their lives. I believe that trauma plays a major role in how we perceive the world and can greatly influence our choices and relationships. I have a passion for working with couples and believe that every marriage can be strengthened and thrive. I take a grace-filled, non-judgmental, collaborative approach to therapy and believe that every person, no matter their situation, can find healing and hope in the midst of their circumstances and I consider it a honor to walk alongside of you.
(458) 213-4381 View (458) 213-4381
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Tansey, Psychologist in Bend, OR
Dr. Jennifer Tansey
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
**Virtual Therapy**&" In Office" In this unique time of uncertainty there are many moments of anxiety and uncertainty. Don't do it alone! If you are struggling please reach out & get the support you need to navigate this time. I've been helping others for 35+ years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist trained in many different modalities. My life experience combined with my training & education has equipped me to serve a variety of people. I work effectively with people challenged by traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, social fears, relationship problem or low self-esteem. I have a strong interest in the spiritual dimensions of growth.
**Virtual Therapy**&" In Office" In this unique time of uncertainty there are many moments of anxiety and uncertainty. Don't do it alone! If you are struggling please reach out & get the support you need to navigate this time. I've been helping others for 35+ years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist trained in many different modalities. My life experience combined with my training & education has equipped me to serve a variety of people. I work effectively with people challenged by traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, social fears, relationship problem or low self-esteem. I have a strong interest in the spiritual dimensions of growth.
(541) 658-3433 View (541) 658-3433
Photo of Samantha Hubbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Samantha Hubbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Coming into a civilization that values separation and individualistic ways I became enlightened by the deep rooted connection and harmony the mind, body, and soul were craving. The suppression of our innate human parts has created exhaustion and burnout that instills conditioning of shame, guilt and fear. My mission is to provide a meaningful safe space to shed these burdens brought on by unrealistic standards of society, family, and our institutions and connect with the healing allies of the earth to remember how to be in alignment with our full embodied selves.
Coming into a civilization that values separation and individualistic ways I became enlightened by the deep rooted connection and harmony the mind, body, and soul were craving. The suppression of our innate human parts has created exhaustion and burnout that instills conditioning of shame, guilt and fear. My mission is to provide a meaningful safe space to shed these burdens brought on by unrealistic standards of society, family, and our institutions and connect with the healing allies of the earth to remember how to be in alignment with our full embodied selves.
(458) 213-4301 View (458) 213-4301
Photo of Dustin Urban, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Dustin Urban
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701  (Online Only)
Struggling with anxiety, PTSD or other issues related to trauma or challenging past experiences? I specialize in therapies, including EMDR, that can provide effective relief from the struggle. I am also skilled and experienced in supporting adults and their family members struggling with ADHD. If your challenges feel more intense or harder to ignore these days, you are not alone. Fortunately therapy is just as available to you now- I am experienced with remote, video-based counseling, and even hesitant clients have found these sessions just as effective as in-person therapy.
Struggling with anxiety, PTSD or other issues related to trauma or challenging past experiences? I specialize in therapies, including EMDR, that can provide effective relief from the struggle. I am also skilled and experienced in supporting adults and their family members struggling with ADHD. If your challenges feel more intense or harder to ignore these days, you are not alone. Fortunately therapy is just as available to you now- I am experienced with remote, video-based counseling, and even hesitant clients have found these sessions just as effective as in-person therapy.
(458) 206-5417 View (458) 206-5417
Photo of Centered Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Centered Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
Centering - identifying that space in the middle, the balance between extremes, both inside and outside of ourselves. Regain balance with support. At Centered Therapy, we have a team of professional counselors ready to assist you with your specific needs. We treat adults with a variety of issues, ranging from trauma and anxiety to relationship issues and life transitions. Our therapists utilize a wide range of empirical and evidence-based practices and techniques to assist you on your path. They create a safe space as a foundation to walk alongside you and encourage your self-empowerment by teaching skills for growth and resilience.
Centering - identifying that space in the middle, the balance between extremes, both inside and outside of ourselves. Regain balance with support. At Centered Therapy, we have a team of professional counselors ready to assist you with your specific needs. We treat adults with a variety of issues, ranging from trauma and anxiety to relationship issues and life transitions. Our therapists utilize a wide range of empirical and evidence-based practices and techniques to assist you on your path. They create a safe space as a foundation to walk alongside you and encourage your self-empowerment by teaching skills for growth and resilience.
(458) 214-8736 View (458) 214-8736
Photo of Erica Barton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Erica Barton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702  (Online Only)
Soothe anxiety, cultivate self trust, and come home to yourself. You want to be thriving and to feel at home in your own skin, but right now you feel stuck, lost, and exhausted from feeling like you're never enough, or too much. You can't seem to find lasting relief from anxiousness in your mind/body, and perhaps even connecting to your body feels challenging. You know something needs to change, but you're not sure where to start, or how. I support women and femmes as they cultivate self trust, authenticity and a renewed sense of wholeness. If this resonates with you, email me to schedule a free consultation call.
Soothe anxiety, cultivate self trust, and come home to yourself. You want to be thriving and to feel at home in your own skin, but right now you feel stuck, lost, and exhausted from feeling like you're never enough, or too much. You can't seem to find lasting relief from anxiousness in your mind/body, and perhaps even connecting to your body feels challenging. You know something needs to change, but you're not sure where to start, or how. I support women and femmes as they cultivate self trust, authenticity and a renewed sense of wholeness. If this resonates with you, email me to schedule a free consultation call.
(458) 216-5930 View (458) 216-5930
Photo of Jillian Devine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Jillian Devine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
In a world of 7+ billion people so many of us are feeling the weight of disconnection. Lack of connection often leads to painful thoughts, feelings, memories and sensations. I believe feeling heard, understood, and valued is one of the greatest gifts I can give. It's a privilege to have been a collaborator with individuals who have chosen to move towards the pain in order to gain a deeper understanding. Feel free to visit my website for more information: JillianDevineLPC.com
In a world of 7+ billion people so many of us are feeling the weight of disconnection. Lack of connection often leads to painful thoughts, feelings, memories and sensations. I believe feeling heard, understood, and valued is one of the greatest gifts I can give. It's a privilege to have been a collaborator with individuals who have chosen to move towards the pain in order to gain a deeper understanding. Feel free to visit my website for more information: JillianDevineLPC.com
(458) 224-1921 View (458) 224-1921
Photo of Michele Freeman Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Michele Freeman Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & specialize in Chronic Pain and Chronic Degenerative Illness. I am a National Certified Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner, and have a Certificate of Addiction Medicine from OHSU. Continuing education I am currently working on through OHSU and UNM School of Medicine are Integrative Behavioral Health for Pediatric Populations, Resiliency for First Responders, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Climate Change and Health which includes Mental Health. And last, I am on the metric advisory committee for Advancing Integrated Care through the Oregon Health Council.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & specialize in Chronic Pain and Chronic Degenerative Illness. I am a National Certified Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner, and have a Certificate of Addiction Medicine from OHSU. Continuing education I am currently working on through OHSU and UNM School of Medicine are Integrative Behavioral Health for Pediatric Populations, Resiliency for First Responders, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Climate Change and Health which includes Mental Health. And last, I am on the metric advisory committee for Advancing Integrated Care through the Oregon Health Council.
(541) 638-0225 View (541) 638-0225
Photo of Katie Ford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Katie Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
I am a Pacific Source Health Plan provider as well as an OHP provider for Central Oregon clients with an office in Bend Oregon. I apologize that I am not a provider for the greater Portland area at this time. I am licensed in Oregon and California and available online for clients in both states for Counseling support. I offer flexible daytime, evening and weekend appointments. I've had the great pleasure of supporting wounded hearts since 1997.
I am a Pacific Source Health Plan provider as well as an OHP provider for Central Oregon clients with an office in Bend Oregon. I apologize that I am not a provider for the greater Portland area at this time. I am licensed in Oregon and California and available online for clients in both states for Counseling support. I offer flexible daytime, evening and weekend appointments. I've had the great pleasure of supporting wounded hearts since 1997.
(541) 287-7224 View (541) 287-7224
Photo of Kelsey Davis, Professional Counselor Associate in Bend, OR
Kelsey Davis
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
I believe that the counseling relationship can promote growth, and I strive towards an approach where we can work together in a holistic way to achieve your goals while developing skills for you to take into your everyday life. I believe that each person is capable of finding freedom from their current situation and past.
I believe that the counseling relationship can promote growth, and I strive towards an approach where we can work together in a holistic way to achieve your goals while developing skills for you to take into your everyday life. I believe that each person is capable of finding freedom from their current situation and past.
(503) 994-9171 View (503) 994-9171
Photo of Kimberlee Lear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Kimberlee Lear
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAT, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
I believe all people have the capacity to live satisfying and joyful lives. However, at times we can each feel stuck and need help and a new perspective to get our lives back on course. I enjoy the process of assisting individuals and families in their journey towards greater peace and fulfillment. I enjoy working with people of all ages to help them process difficult life experiences so that they can enjoy a life of greater vitality, playfulness and compassion. I enjoy using IFS (internal family systems) therapy to assist clients in integrating all parts of themselves for a more aligned life.
I believe all people have the capacity to live satisfying and joyful lives. However, at times we can each feel stuck and need help and a new perspective to get our lives back on course. I enjoy the process of assisting individuals and families in their journey towards greater peace and fulfillment. I enjoy working with people of all ages to help them process difficult life experiences so that they can enjoy a life of greater vitality, playfulness and compassion. I enjoy using IFS (internal family systems) therapy to assist clients in integrating all parts of themselves for a more aligned life.
(458) 209-2758 View (458) 209-2758
Photo of Ally Lopez, LPC Intern in Bend, OR
Ally Lopez
LPC Intern, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
Healing is messy, confusing and scary. My goal as a therapist is to help create a safe and open space for my clients to explore their own healing journey. I focus my work on trauma informed care, am naturally client centered but can also gently guide clients by walking alongside them. Nature, mindfulness, and somatic healing lie at the core of the work I aim to do with clients with skills and psychoeducation sprinkled in. I am currently have become interested in working with transgendered individuals as well. Trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, ADHD, OCD, transgender care, no matter the experience, lets work through it together.
Healing is messy, confusing and scary. My goal as a therapist is to help create a safe and open space for my clients to explore their own healing journey. I focus my work on trauma informed care, am naturally client centered but can also gently guide clients by walking alongside them. Nature, mindfulness, and somatic healing lie at the core of the work I aim to do with clients with skills and psychoeducation sprinkled in. I am currently have become interested in working with transgendered individuals as well. Trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, ADHD, OCD, transgender care, no matter the experience, lets work through it together.
(458) 224-6545 x1005 View (458) 224-6545 x1005
Photo of San Francisco Trauma Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bend, OR
San Francisco Trauma Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701  (Online Only)
You are bright, sensitive, and insightful but either feel like you’re stuck on ON (easily startled, racing thoughts that are difficult to control or turn off, struggling to relax and feeling flooded emotionally), or stuck on OFF (flat, lethargic, exhausted, foggy, unmotivated and disconnected from your vitality and energy). You may have even spent years in talk therapy, gained a lot of insight but have hit a plateau and may be wondering if you’re not meant to fully heal or if therapy actually works. It is possible to deeply heal - you just need an approach that supports your life's history and how it's stored in your body.
You are bright, sensitive, and insightful but either feel like you’re stuck on ON (easily startled, racing thoughts that are difficult to control or turn off, struggling to relax and feeling flooded emotionally), or stuck on OFF (flat, lethargic, exhausted, foggy, unmotivated and disconnected from your vitality and energy). You may have even spent years in talk therapy, gained a lot of insight but have hit a plateau and may be wondering if you’re not meant to fully heal or if therapy actually works. It is possible to deeply heal - you just need an approach that supports your life's history and how it's stored in your body.
(415) 329-0716 View (415) 329-0716
Photo of Kyle Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bend, OR
Kyle Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701  (Online Only)
About Telehealth: Clients report that they feel as comfortable and supported as they would by meeting in an office, and that they enjoy the convenience and flexibility telehealth provides. Working over the past 25 years in County Mental Health Systems, Child Protective Services, Crisis Intervention, Hospice services and Forensics , I've acquired extensive experience working with individuals, couples and older adults. My sessions tend to focus on reducing self doubt and questioning by fostering a sense of curiosity and exploration of the sources of discomfort, with the goal of rediscovering your strengths and self confidence.
About Telehealth: Clients report that they feel as comfortable and supported as they would by meeting in an office, and that they enjoy the convenience and flexibility telehealth provides. Working over the past 25 years in County Mental Health Systems, Child Protective Services, Crisis Intervention, Hospice services and Forensics , I've acquired extensive experience working with individuals, couples and older adults. My sessions tend to focus on reducing self doubt and questioning by fostering a sense of curiosity and exploration of the sources of discomfort, with the goal of rediscovering your strengths and self confidence.
(458) 219-8547 View (458) 219-8547
Photo of Sean Downes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bend, OR
Sean Downes, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
When you are dissatisfied with the way things are, the way you are, it means you are ready to evolve, and take steps towards the life you desire. You can live happily in uncertainty, while overcoming challenges. I know it's true because my clients experience it during and after our work together. As part of development, your brain & nervous system created emotional and mental adaptations to protect you. You may not remember when it happened. Yet they still may influence your thoughts and feelings today.
When you are dissatisfied with the way things are, the way you are, it means you are ready to evolve, and take steps towards the life you desire. You can live happily in uncertainty, while overcoming challenges. I know it's true because my clients experience it during and after our work together. As part of development, your brain & nervous system created emotional and mental adaptations to protect you. You may not remember when it happened. Yet they still may influence your thoughts and feelings today.
(541) 702-1058 View (541) 702-1058
Photo of Morgan Simone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Morgan Simone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients. Through empathy and unconditional positive regard, I assist clients in gaining insight, coping skills and self acceptance. I believe that it's through connection, understanding and working together that change can begin to happen. I utilize an eclectic approach with a strong reliance on Person Centered Counseling, EMDR, DBT and CBT, to create rapport and a safe place for others.
I am currently accepting new clients. Through empathy and unconditional positive regard, I assist clients in gaining insight, coping skills and self acceptance. I believe that it's through connection, understanding and working together that change can begin to happen. I utilize an eclectic approach with a strong reliance on Person Centered Counseling, EMDR, DBT and CBT, to create rapport and a safe place for others.
(541) 532-3132 View (541) 532-3132
Photo of Leah A. Williamson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bend, OR
Leah A. Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Thank you for being here! You have taken the first steps toward a different way of living. Your action to move toward healing is already a sign that you are and yet we all need support from time to time. Chronic stress and/or traumatic experiences often debilitate our intuitive nature and create a disconnection from our embodied, true self. My hope is that we can collaboratively create within you an internal environment of security, possibility and ease.
Thank you for being here! You have taken the first steps toward a different way of living. Your action to move toward healing is already a sign that you are and yet we all need support from time to time. Chronic stress and/or traumatic experiences often debilitate our intuitive nature and create a disconnection from our embodied, true self. My hope is that we can collaboratively create within you an internal environment of security, possibility and ease.
(458) 202-2777 View (458) 202-2777
Photo of Molly Bean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bend, OR
Molly Bean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
Molly graduated with her Masters in Social Work from Portland State University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She has extensive experience treating individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, loss and general life stressors.
Molly graduated with her Masters in Social Work from Portland State University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She has extensive experience treating individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, loss and general life stressors.
(458) 230-5321 View (458) 230-5321

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bend, OR

500+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Bend, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Stress
71% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% PacificSource
55% Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
38% Aetna

How Therapists in Bend, OR see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
20% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bend?

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.