Therapists in Fort Collins, CO

Photo of Julie Kittredge, LPC, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Kittredge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” –Maya Angelou. Sometimes life deals you a million little paper-cuts, relationships are challenging, our coping mechanisms aren’t helping, and we find ourselves disillusioned and disconnected. You may be dealing with a difficult or destructive marriage, anger and resentment, hurt from the church, relentless anxiety, unprocessed grief, feeling like you're trapped, or struggling with unspoken shadows of the past. Relational conflict feels like a never-ending cycle and you're beginning to wonder if it will ever get better.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” –Maya Angelou. Sometimes life deals you a million little paper-cuts, relationships are challenging, our coping mechanisms aren’t helping, and we find ourselves disillusioned and disconnected. You may be dealing with a difficult or destructive marriage, anger and resentment, hurt from the church, relentless anxiety, unprocessed grief, feeling like you're trapped, or struggling with unspoken shadows of the past. Relational conflict feels like a never-ending cycle and you're beginning to wonder if it will ever get better.
(970) 840-0893 View (970) 840-0893
Photo of Jennifer Silva, MSW, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults with a variety of different struggles; including, grief and loss, substance abuse, mood disorders, anxiety, relationships, suicidal ideations, self-harm, and trauma.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults with a variety of different struggles; including, grief and loss, substance abuse, mood disorders, anxiety, relationships, suicidal ideations, self-harm, and trauma.
(970) 638-7944 View (970) 638-7944
Photo of Rowdy B LeMasters
Rowdy B LeMasters
Licensed Social Worker
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
I am currently working with LIfestance Health. I am a very strengths-based therapist. I believe if we focus on our existing strengths we can overcome our challenges. I believe in evidence-based interventions with my own unique twist. I delight in clients that want to overcome any obstacles that may be keeping them from achieving their highest good. Have worked with adults and adolescents, LGBTQ+ friendly! I have a great deal of experience working with suicidal ideation. I also have experience with multi-faith spiritual advising (including all forms of beliefs or non-beliefs). I believe in cultivating playful joy.
I am currently working with LIfestance Health. I am a very strengths-based therapist. I believe if we focus on our existing strengths we can overcome our challenges. I believe in evidence-based interventions with my own unique twist. I delight in clients that want to overcome any obstacles that may be keeping them from achieving their highest good. Have worked with adults and adolescents, LGBTQ+ friendly! I have a great deal of experience working with suicidal ideation. I also have experience with multi-faith spiritual advising (including all forms of beliefs or non-beliefs). I believe in cultivating playful joy.
(970) 660-6794 View (970) 660-6794
Photo of Dominic Joseph Smith, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dominic Joseph Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
I have diverse clinical experience with children and their families in community settings, as well as in elementary and pre-school settings. I also have great experience with helping children navigate developmental disabilities, behavioral and mood disorders, divorce, separation, and stepfamily dynamics. I have worked with many children who have been exposed to trauma including, abuse, neglect, and domestic violence. I believe that involving the family, parents, and other primary caregivers in the therapeutic process provides the best possible resolution for the toughest challenges.
I have diverse clinical experience with children and their families in community settings, as well as in elementary and pre-school settings. I also have great experience with helping children navigate developmental disabilities, behavioral and mood disorders, divorce, separation, and stepfamily dynamics. I have worked with many children who have been exposed to trauma including, abuse, neglect, and domestic violence. I believe that involving the family, parents, and other primary caregivers in the therapeutic process provides the best possible resolution for the toughest challenges.
(970) 426-0083 View (970) 426-0083
Photo of Kelsey Kennedy, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. When working together, my focus is on helping you navigate a continually changing life. I am here to help you overcome challenges, and support your growth. I view each individual holistically, understanding that the mind and body are connected as one. I welcome you to an empathetic and judgement free space where together we will work towards your goals, at a pace that feels comfortable for you! Ultimately, I want to help you achieve a more joyful and content life.
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. When working together, my focus is on helping you navigate a continually changing life. I am here to help you overcome challenges, and support your growth. I view each individual holistically, understanding that the mind and body are connected as one. I welcome you to an empathetic and judgement free space where together we will work towards your goals, at a pace that feels comfortable for you! Ultimately, I want to help you achieve a more joyful and content life.
(970) 610-0884 View (970) 610-0884
Photo of Megan Schimmelpfennig, MA, LPCC, NCC
Megan Schimmelpfennig
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Often times life throws things at us that are just too difficult to overcome on our own. It's my passion to walk alongside you to listen to your life story without judgment, assist in identifying your personal strengths, offer new perspectives, and collaborate to help you discover healthy changes leading to physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. The way we think about things can often lead us astray and into a state of anxiety. We will bring attention to and change the thought processes, beliefs, and automatic thoughts that often cause much distress and anxiety. Together, we will identify solutions that work for you.
Often times life throws things at us that are just too difficult to overcome on our own. It's my passion to walk alongside you to listen to your life story without judgment, assist in identifying your personal strengths, offer new perspectives, and collaborate to help you discover healthy changes leading to physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. The way we think about things can often lead us astray and into a state of anxiety. We will bring attention to and change the thought processes, beliefs, and automatic thoughts that often cause much distress and anxiety. Together, we will identify solutions that work for you.
(970) 591-9049 View (970) 591-9049
Photo of Kathleen Walsh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Walsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80521  (Online Only)
Tele-therapy sessions are available throughout Colorado and California. As a somatic therapist specializing in trauma and relationship issues, I am devoted to helping clients heal and integrate the mind/body/spirit connection and to experience the deeper meanings and intentions of their life. I provide a warm, compassionate space for inner exploration so clients feel seen and accepted. Transformation and healing are then possible. I am a certified Brainspotting therapist.
Tele-therapy sessions are available throughout Colorado and California. As a somatic therapist specializing in trauma and relationship issues, I am devoted to helping clients heal and integrate the mind/body/spirit connection and to experience the deeper meanings and intentions of their life. I provide a warm, compassionate space for inner exploration so clients feel seen and accepted. Transformation and healing are then possible. I am a certified Brainspotting therapist.
(628) 888-7195 View (628) 888-7195
Photo of Sarah VanNatta, MA, LPCC, NCC
Sarah VanNatta
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Hi there! My name is Sarah and I am so glad you're here. I am committed to supporting individuals on their unique healing journeys by providing a compassionate and empowering space for them to navigate challenges, discover insights, and cultivate resilience. I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds who are navigating the impact of mood-related disorders, stress, and the impacts of trauma. I specialize in working with clients navigating chronic stress, trauma, and nervous system dysregulation.
Hi there! My name is Sarah and I am so glad you're here. I am committed to supporting individuals on their unique healing journeys by providing a compassionate and empowering space for them to navigate challenges, discover insights, and cultivate resilience. I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds who are navigating the impact of mood-related disorders, stress, and the impacts of trauma. I specialize in working with clients navigating chronic stress, trauma, and nervous system dysregulation.
(720) 806-7423 View (720) 806-7423
Photo of Cori Barnes, MA, LPCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cori Barnes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
“I don't feel like I have anything to look forward to.” “I will never get over this breakup.” “I feel like nobody gets me.” “I think I'm past something, then I overreact.” “I spend most of my time worrying or avoiding." Do any of these resonate with you? We all struggle with difficult circumstances, thoughts and emotions at some point. Most times we can move through these but sometimes we get stuck. This does not mean we are broken, bad, or unloveable; although it can certainly feel that way. You are not alone! There is hope for a satisfying life. Having the courage to ask for help can be the first step toward positive change.
“I don't feel like I have anything to look forward to.” “I will never get over this breakup.” “I feel like nobody gets me.” “I think I'm past something, then I overreact.” “I spend most of my time worrying or avoiding." Do any of these resonate with you? We all struggle with difficult circumstances, thoughts and emotions at some point. Most times we can move through these but sometimes we get stuck. This does not mean we are broken, bad, or unloveable; although it can certainly feel that way. You are not alone! There is hope for a satisfying life. Having the courage to ask for help can be the first step toward positive change.
(970) 610-1272 View (970) 610-1272
Photo of Emilie Ryan, LPC, NCC, SEP, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emilie Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Not accepting new clients
Not currently accepting Individual Therapy Clients; Trauma Healing Group Therapy available. Emilie specializes in treating complex trauma and PTSD, anxiety and stress, panic attacks, dissociation, self-esteem and identity development, and personal growth. Emilie works with individuals of many backgrounds, identities, and economic classes with sensitivity and respect. Emilie views her role as that of a knowledgeable collaborator, working with her clients to combine her expertise with their own wisdom to provide completely individualized therapy.
Not currently accepting Individual Therapy Clients; Trauma Healing Group Therapy available. Emilie specializes in treating complex trauma and PTSD, anxiety and stress, panic attacks, dissociation, self-esteem and identity development, and personal growth. Emilie works with individuals of many backgrounds, identities, and economic classes with sensitivity and respect. Emilie views her role as that of a knowledgeable collaborator, working with her clients to combine her expertise with their own wisdom to provide completely individualized therapy.
(970) 707-5288 View (970) 707-5288
Photo of Loni Klismet Beall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Loni Klismet Beall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Everyone tells a story: "I am a success," "I am content with my life," "I am a failure," or "no one cares about me." If your story is increasingly negative, perhaps we should talk about it. I use narrative therapy, which helps you separate yourself from your problems and then conquer them. It's like rewriting your story; your problems become the villains, and therapy helps you defeat them. In addition to narrative therapy, I am also an EMDR Level I & II practitioner, a therapy which helps you to reprocess traumatic memories so that you are no longer triggered by them. Our practice is accepting new clients.
Everyone tells a story: "I am a success," "I am content with my life," "I am a failure," or "no one cares about me." If your story is increasingly negative, perhaps we should talk about it. I use narrative therapy, which helps you separate yourself from your problems and then conquer them. It's like rewriting your story; your problems become the villains, and therapy helps you defeat them. In addition to narrative therapy, I am also an EMDR Level I & II practitioner, a therapy which helps you to reprocess traumatic memories so that you are no longer triggered by them. Our practice is accepting new clients.
(970) 672-1343 View (970) 672-1343
Photo of Jake Arrowsmith, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jake Arrowsmith
Pre-Licensed Professional, CIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by incessant worries and racing thoughts, unable to find peace of mind? Perhaps you've experienced moments when life seems futile, and despair creeps in, making it hard to see any hope. If you're struggling, I'm here to assist you. As a mental health therapist, I specialize in helping clients struggling with anxiety and depression, trauma, relationships, addiction, grief, eating disorders, and low self-esteem. If you are someone who is looking to work through difficult emotions and past experiences in order to find relief and improve your overall well-being, I may be the right fit for you.
Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by incessant worries and racing thoughts, unable to find peace of mind? Perhaps you've experienced moments when life seems futile, and despair creeps in, making it hard to see any hope. If you're struggling, I'm here to assist you. As a mental health therapist, I specialize in helping clients struggling with anxiety and depression, trauma, relationships, addiction, grief, eating disorders, and low self-esteem. If you are someone who is looking to work through difficult emotions and past experiences in order to find relief and improve your overall well-being, I may be the right fit for you.
(970) 866-0843 View (970) 866-0843
Photo of Austen Allen, BS, LPC Intern
Austen Allen
LPC Intern, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
I'm a graduate counseling intern therapist at Bloom Counseling & Nutrition, completing my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Colorado State University (Go Rams!). I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as supporting male-identifying individuals in navigating toxic masculinity and helping folx navigate career and life transitions. I received my undergraduate degree in Health and Exercise Science with an emphasis in Health Promotion and have also worked for several years as a trauma-informed personal trainer in the fitness and movement space.
I'm a graduate counseling intern therapist at Bloom Counseling & Nutrition, completing my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Colorado State University (Go Rams!). I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as supporting male-identifying individuals in navigating toxic masculinity and helping folx navigate career and life transitions. I received my undergraduate degree in Health and Exercise Science with an emphasis in Health Promotion and have also worked for several years as a trauma-informed personal trainer in the fitness and movement space.
(970) 634-6513 View (970) 634-6513
Photo of Marty J Rein, PhD, MEd, LPC, CAS, Counselor
Marty J Rein
Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, CAS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521
When working with clients, I utilize a client-centered, collaborative approach. I focus on meaning, encouragement, and support to help my clients obtain awareness, understanding, and acceptance of themselves. I approach the counseling relationship from a perspective of "meaning making" which suggests that people act on what they believe about situations, not the situation itself. Together, we use that knowledge as a basis to explore, assess, illuminate, unravel, and move forward through obstacles towards a goal-oriented outcome.
When working with clients, I utilize a client-centered, collaborative approach. I focus on meaning, encouragement, and support to help my clients obtain awareness, understanding, and acceptance of themselves. I approach the counseling relationship from a perspective of "meaning making" which suggests that people act on what they believe about situations, not the situation itself. Together, we use that knowledge as a basis to explore, assess, illuminate, unravel, and move forward through obstacles towards a goal-oriented outcome.
(970) 514-5692 View (970) 514-5692
Photo of Bonnie C Cochran, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bonnie C Cochran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Life is full of challenges for each and every one of us. In my 20 plus years of working as a Mental Health Care Professional I have learned that the hurdles we face ultimately help us to change and grow. I have worked with individuals and couples from all walks of life, coping with loss relationship issues, life changing medical diagnosis, reproductive trauma, career challenges, anxiety, trauma and depression.
Life is full of challenges for each and every one of us. In my 20 plus years of working as a Mental Health Care Professional I have learned that the hurdles we face ultimately help us to change and grow. I have worked with individuals and couples from all walks of life, coping with loss relationship issues, life changing medical diagnosis, reproductive trauma, career challenges, anxiety, trauma and depression.
(970) 293-7992 View (970) 293-7992
Photo of Michael Sousa, LPC, Counselor
Michael Sousa
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Hi there – I'm Michael Sousa. My quest for healing has taken me across the globe, immersing myself in diverse cultures to better understand the universal threads of healing and self-discovery. As a mental health counselor, my goal is to support you as you navigate the complexities of your journey, helping you to live more fully and in harmony with those around you. Together, we'll work towards uncovering and reinforcing your true self.
Hi there – I'm Michael Sousa. My quest for healing has taken me across the globe, immersing myself in diverse cultures to better understand the universal threads of healing and self-discovery. As a mental health counselor, my goal is to support you as you navigate the complexities of your journey, helping you to live more fully and in harmony with those around you. Together, we'll work towards uncovering and reinforcing your true self.
(970) 432-4923 View (970) 432-4923
Photo of Erica Hope, PhD, LP, EMDR, Psychologist
Erica Hope
Psychologist, PhD, LP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Are you grieving a loss or struggling with infertility or perinatal challenges? Are you looking to improve your relationships so you feel more connected and at peace? I understand life can be difficult and overwhelming. If you need support outside your circle or community, someone to listen, understand and support you through these challenges or if you’re looking to heal and make a significant change, I would be honored to assist you along your journey. I often work with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression and grief.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Are you grieving a loss or struggling with infertility or perinatal challenges? Are you looking to improve your relationships so you feel more connected and at peace? I understand life can be difficult and overwhelming. If you need support outside your circle or community, someone to listen, understand and support you through these challenges or if you’re looking to heal and make a significant change, I would be honored to assist you along your journey. I often work with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression and grief.
(970) 808-0144 View (970) 808-0144
Photo of Bernadette Pivarunas - Radical Healing, Licensed Professional Counselor
Radical Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Radical Healing - body, mind, and spirit. It is possible, even when life and your experiences feel insurmountable. You don’t have to do this alone. You deserve to feel safe, whole, and lovable. We highly value using state of the art, empirically-based mental health services and care for individuals, couples, and families. We welcome you, affirm you, and celebrate you.
Radical Healing - body, mind, and spirit. It is possible, even when life and your experiences feel insurmountable. You don’t have to do this alone. You deserve to feel safe, whole, and lovable. We highly value using state of the art, empirically-based mental health services and care for individuals, couples, and families. We welcome you, affirm you, and celebrate you.
(970) 999-1668 View (970) 999-1668
Photo of Chris Pelletier - Pelletier Counseling LLC, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pelletier Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
My ideal client is seeking clinical support in an effort to create a personally empowered path to long-term emotional wellness. Clients are given support to improve their understanding of the relationship between their experience and their mental wellness in addition to specific skills to improve this wellness. My style strongly supports a deep understanding of self through small steps taken toward personal goals on a daily basis. Together, we will work to both gain a deeper understanding of your ongoing needs and how you can utilize your personal strengths to overcome these with positivity over your lifetime.
My ideal client is seeking clinical support in an effort to create a personally empowered path to long-term emotional wellness. Clients are given support to improve their understanding of the relationship between their experience and their mental wellness in addition to specific skills to improve this wellness. My style strongly supports a deep understanding of self through small steps taken toward personal goals on a daily basis. Together, we will work to both gain a deeper understanding of your ongoing needs and how you can utilize your personal strengths to overcome these with positivity over your lifetime.
(970) 650-6789 View (970) 650-6789
Photo of Corina Miller, BA, CAT, ADS, CYI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corina Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, CAT, ADS, CYI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
I help women in transitions to find balance with their self-care needs and varying responsibilities so they can feel like their best selves as they navigate new chapters in life. Are you feeling out of whack? Off center? I will work with you to create a greater sense of purpose and control in your life.
I help women in transitions to find balance with their self-care needs and varying responsibilities so they can feel like their best selves as they navigate new chapters in life. Are you feeling out of whack? Off center? I will work with you to create a greater sense of purpose and control in your life.
(970) 500-5421 View (970) 500-5421
1
...

See more therapy options for Fort Collins

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fort Collins, CO

1,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Fort Collins, CO who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Fort Collins, CO see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fort Collins?

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.