Therapists in Hiawatha, IA

Photo of Jennifer VansCoy, Counselor in Hiawatha, IA
Jennifer VansCoy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Not accepting new clients
You’re here, looking for a space where you can be heard without judgement. You say everything is “fine”, but you know it’s not. Maybe things have just been overwhelming. You’re looking for a space where you’ll feel comfortable and safe so that you can be free to express yourself. Maybe you’re not even sure how to do that. You just know that you need something different. Therapy can help you figure out how to express yourself and move your life in the direction you want it to go.
You’re here, looking for a space where you can be heard without judgement. You say everything is “fine”, but you know it’s not. Maybe things have just been overwhelming. You’re looking for a space where you’ll feel comfortable and safe so that you can be free to express yourself. Maybe you’re not even sure how to do that. You just know that you need something different. Therapy can help you figure out how to express yourself and move your life in the direction you want it to go.
(319) 313-2668 View (319) 313-2668
Photo of Jason Cleveland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Jason Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Usually when someone asks me why they should go to therapy, I ask them if they think they could benefit from having a non-judgmental third party whose only motive in therapy is to help them get what they want in life. Having someone who can help identify the obstacles and then walk beside you to find healing and the solutions to the presenting struggles can be life changing. I want to be that person for you. The safe soul Sherpa. To be for you at times a guide, to be someone you can feel safe with, to feel safe enough to feel and heal, to be someone to challenge you to grow and find the light that is always shining within you.
Usually when someone asks me why they should go to therapy, I ask them if they think they could benefit from having a non-judgmental third party whose only motive in therapy is to help them get what they want in life. Having someone who can help identify the obstacles and then walk beside you to find healing and the solutions to the presenting struggles can be life changing. I want to be that person for you. The safe soul Sherpa. To be for you at times a guide, to be someone you can feel safe with, to feel safe enough to feel and heal, to be someone to challenge you to grow and find the light that is always shining within you.
(319) 419-4891 View (319) 419-4891
Photo of Echo Kent, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Echo Kent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Not accepting new clients
I believe everyone deserves to move away from feelings of distress towards a happier, more balanced life. My focus is supporting clients, ranging from those who have experienced trauma or individuals and couples facing relationship difficulties in dealing with negative feelings, improving coping and developing meaningful relationships. My style is supportive, non-judgmental and respectful, but also practical and goal-oriented. Together we will explore what you want from therapy and customize an approach that’s best for you and supports your wellbeing and happiness.
I believe everyone deserves to move away from feelings of distress towards a happier, more balanced life. My focus is supporting clients, ranging from those who have experienced trauma or individuals and couples facing relationship difficulties in dealing with negative feelings, improving coping and developing meaningful relationships. My style is supportive, non-judgmental and respectful, but also practical and goal-oriented. Together we will explore what you want from therapy and customize an approach that’s best for you and supports your wellbeing and happiness.
(319) 409-6773 View (319) 409-6773
Photo of Kalen D. Zeiger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hiawatha, IA
Kalen D. Zeiger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, tLMFT, CCTP, CFTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Waitlist for new clients
Are you queer? Do you have a queer family member, partner, or kid? I provide queer and gender-affirming, neurodiverse-validating mental healthcare; WPATH-informed psychosocial assessments & letters of support; and mental health support for individuals, couples and partners, parents, and families like yours who may be struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustments and often must navigate confusing & less than accepting social and care scenarios. Have you experienced trauma? Unfortunately, LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to experience trauma. I help clients like you manage and process trauma and move forward.
Are you queer? Do you have a queer family member, partner, or kid? I provide queer and gender-affirming, neurodiverse-validating mental healthcare; WPATH-informed psychosocial assessments & letters of support; and mental health support for individuals, couples and partners, parents, and families like yours who may be struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustments and often must navigate confusing & less than accepting social and care scenarios. Have you experienced trauma? Unfortunately, LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to experience trauma. I help clients like you manage and process trauma and move forward.
(319) 774-8301 View (319) 774-8301
Photo of Erin Forbes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Erin Forbes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
As a therapist, I believe that a person is more than just the sum of their experiences. Each one of us is made up of our unique thoughts, emotions and ideas. I have devoted my career to finding ways of honoring who you are, as well as who you want to become. My clients range from children to adults, and my special interests are with teens, parents and families. I am clinically trained to help individuals and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, conflicts and grief. My style is direct, non-judgmental and supportive, as we work together to create a treatment plan that uniquely fits your needs.
As a therapist, I believe that a person is more than just the sum of their experiences. Each one of us is made up of our unique thoughts, emotions and ideas. I have devoted my career to finding ways of honoring who you are, as well as who you want to become. My clients range from children to adults, and my special interests are with teens, parents and families. I am clinically trained to help individuals and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, conflicts and grief. My style is direct, non-judgmental and supportive, as we work together to create a treatment plan that uniquely fits your needs.
(319) 670-3545 View (319) 670-3545
Photo of Lindsay Miles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Lindsay Miles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Waitlist for new clients
No one should move through life, silently experiencing emotional distress with little to no sense of hope, yet so many individuals do. Whether it be a result of biology and/or experience, a person’s thoughts and emotions can greatly shape their reality- leaving them to struggle to see the light at the end of the tunnel. By reconnecting with their values and seeing one's purpose in life, a person can begin to break free from the hold that uncomfortable thoughts and emotions can have on them. While involvement in therapy entails a great deal of vulnerability, it can also be an important step toward desired growth.
No one should move through life, silently experiencing emotional distress with little to no sense of hope, yet so many individuals do. Whether it be a result of biology and/or experience, a person’s thoughts and emotions can greatly shape their reality- leaving them to struggle to see the light at the end of the tunnel. By reconnecting with their values and seeing one's purpose in life, a person can begin to break free from the hold that uncomfortable thoughts and emotions can have on them. While involvement in therapy entails a great deal of vulnerability, it can also be an important step toward desired growth.
(319) 519-4375 View (319) 519-4375
Photo of Laura Crow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Laura Crow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Each person has a unique and valid story; it is a privilege to get to learn each client’s. As a clinician, my goal is to help discover and expand clients' existing resources and skills, in order to grow in the directions they choose. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who may have PTSD and a history of trauma in their lives, ADHD, anxiety, depression, struggles with body image, weight stigma, and/or sexuality. I welcome clients who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as those who may practice nontraditional relationship structures such as consensual nonmonogamy.
Each person has a unique and valid story; it is a privilege to get to learn each client’s. As a clinician, my goal is to help discover and expand clients' existing resources and skills, in order to grow in the directions they choose. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who may have PTSD and a history of trauma in their lives, ADHD, anxiety, depression, struggles with body image, weight stigma, and/or sexuality. I welcome clients who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as those who may practice nontraditional relationship structures such as consensual nonmonogamy.
(319) 250-2568 View (319) 250-2568
Photo of Toni S Neta, Counselor in Hiawatha, IA
Toni S Neta
Counselor, LMHC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Beginning psychotherapy is a very significant step in a person's life. I understand, and very much appreciate the trust that needs to be built to share thoughts, experiences, and pain that have brought you to this point. I also understand how difficult it is to share these kinds of things with someone you don't know. I realize that trust and this process takes time, and I believe and respect that the patient knows when they are ready to reveal and talk about their experiences and their emotions. I commit to providing you with a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to share and to achieve your treatment goals.
Beginning psychotherapy is a very significant step in a person's life. I understand, and very much appreciate the trust that needs to be built to share thoughts, experiences, and pain that have brought you to this point. I also understand how difficult it is to share these kinds of things with someone you don't know. I realize that trust and this process takes time, and I believe and respect that the patient knows when they are ready to reveal and talk about their experiences and their emotions. I commit to providing you with a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to share and to achieve your treatment goals.
(319) 657-5097 View (319) 657-5097
Photo of Nico Zvacek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Nico Zvacek
Marriage & Family Therapist, TLMFT
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
From time to time everyone faces obstacles, changes, and challenges. When these experiences arise, no one should have to face them alone. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, alone, or at the end of your rope. Maybe you want to understand more about yourself, want support and guidance for your child, or need a place to process impactful life experiences. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I am committed to helping you meet your unique goals.
From time to time everyone faces obstacles, changes, and challenges. When these experiences arise, no one should have to face them alone. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, alone, or at the end of your rope. Maybe you want to understand more about yourself, want support and guidance for your child, or need a place to process impactful life experiences. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I am committed to helping you meet your unique goals.
(319) 302-3850 View (319) 302-3850
Photo of Katie Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Katie Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
There comes a time in people’s lives when they aren’t comfortable where they are and want a change. I believe people deserve to live happier lives with renewed hope whether they are experiencing uncomfortable adjustments or have been enduring painful moments in life. It is my hope to meet clients where they are and provide a supportive and accepting environment, while collaboratively working towards the client’s goals. By encouraging individuals, couples, and families to be experts in their own lives, we can create lasting positive change to increase quality of life.
There comes a time in people’s lives when they aren’t comfortable where they are and want a change. I believe people deserve to live happier lives with renewed hope whether they are experiencing uncomfortable adjustments or have been enduring painful moments in life. It is my hope to meet clients where they are and provide a supportive and accepting environment, while collaboratively working towards the client’s goals. By encouraging individuals, couples, and families to be experts in their own lives, we can create lasting positive change to increase quality of life.
(319) 220-3665 View (319) 220-3665
Photo of Gillian Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Gillian Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Accepting new clients! We all have struggles, and sometimes we need support in working through our struggles. I use a non-pathologizing, collaborative approach. I am passionate about supporting individuals work towards healing. I will meet you where you are and will hold space for all of the parts that make up you as an individual.
Accepting new clients! We all have struggles, and sometimes we need support in working through our struggles. I use a non-pathologizing, collaborative approach. I am passionate about supporting individuals work towards healing. I will meet you where you are and will hold space for all of the parts that make up you as an individual.
(319) 669-8963 View (319) 669-8963
Photo of Elizabeth Miller-White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Elizabeth Miller-White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, t-LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Elizabeth Miller-White, MA, tLMFT is a temporary licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Elizabeth believes each client is the expert in their own lives. Elizabeth enjoys working with adult individuals, children 8 and up, and couples. Elizabeth's interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, ADHD, couple issues including discernment counseling, borderline personality disorder, attachment issues, domestic abuse victims, and eating disorders.
Elizabeth Miller-White, MA, tLMFT is a temporary licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Elizabeth believes each client is the expert in their own lives. Elizabeth enjoys working with adult individuals, children 8 and up, and couples. Elizabeth's interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, ADHD, couple issues including discernment counseling, borderline personality disorder, attachment issues, domestic abuse victims, and eating disorders.
(319) 246-7642 View (319) 246-7642
Photo of Leslie Orr, Counselor in Hiawatha, IA
Leslie Orr
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Doing my own personal work in therapy is what led me to become a therapist. I believe strongly in paying it forward, and I would like to be there for you to normalize the process of participating in mental health counseling. You don’t need to suffer in silence. Unconditional positive regard and validation can be uplifting to those who are struggling. I believe that people have the ability to grow and change into who they want to become. As your therapist, my goal is to help you live the best life you can.
Doing my own personal work in therapy is what led me to become a therapist. I believe strongly in paying it forward, and I would like to be there for you to normalize the process of participating in mental health counseling. You don’t need to suffer in silence. Unconditional positive regard and validation can be uplifting to those who are struggling. I believe that people have the ability to grow and change into who they want to become. As your therapist, my goal is to help you live the best life you can.
(319) 458-5206 View (319) 458-5206
Photo of Jason K. Fiala, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Jason K. Fiala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
I am accepting New Clients! I treat Individuals, Couples, and Adolescents. I strive to meet each client where they are authentically with empathy, curiosity, and compassion to foster connected relationships. I work to empower clients to feel comfortable with who they are and who they want to be. Everyone deserves a place to feel safe, understood, and to belong. Many of us can feel overwhelmed, rejected, and alone but don't know where to turn. Whether you are depressed, anxious, have experienced significant trauma, or just need someone to understand you and your lived experience. Everyone has the right to be at peace.
I am accepting New Clients! I treat Individuals, Couples, and Adolescents. I strive to meet each client where they are authentically with empathy, curiosity, and compassion to foster connected relationships. I work to empower clients to feel comfortable with who they are and who they want to be. Everyone deserves a place to feel safe, understood, and to belong. Many of us can feel overwhelmed, rejected, and alone but don't know where to turn. Whether you are depressed, anxious, have experienced significant trauma, or just need someone to understand you and your lived experience. Everyone has the right to be at peace.
(319) 729-8110 View (319) 729-8110
Photo of MWR Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
MWR Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Your health and well-being are important, and when you make the decision to care for your mental health, MWR is here to partner with you. MWR Counseling provides outpatient mental health counseling to individuals, couples, and families. Our providers specialize in multiple areas, including perinatal mental health, EMDR and somatic trauma treatment, OCD, and chronic pain. When you contact MWR, you will be connected with a therapist who is trained and experienced in providing treatment for your specific needs.
Your health and well-being are important, and when you make the decision to care for your mental health, MWR is here to partner with you. MWR Counseling provides outpatient mental health counseling to individuals, couples, and families. Our providers specialize in multiple areas, including perinatal mental health, EMDR and somatic trauma treatment, OCD, and chronic pain. When you contact MWR, you will be connected with a therapist who is trained and experienced in providing treatment for your specific needs.
(319) 346-3275 View (319) 346-3275
Photo of Susie (Kilburg) Murray, Counselor in Hiawatha, IA
Susie (Kilburg) Murray
Counselor, PhD, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Not accepting new clients
It's not always easy taking the first step to seek out counseling, but chances are, if you are here, you are recognize that something isn't working for you and you are ready to make some changes in your life. Working collaboratively, counseling can address these issues to help you achieve your personal wellness goals.
It's not always easy taking the first step to seek out counseling, but chances are, if you are here, you are recognize that something isn't working for you and you are ready to make some changes in your life. Working collaboratively, counseling can address these issues to help you achieve your personal wellness goals.
(319) 774-3494 View (319) 774-3494
Photo of Heather Morgan-Sowada, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Heather Morgan-Sowada
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Not accepting new clients
I am unfortunately not taking new clients at this time*** I strongly believe that whether someone is simply going through some uncomfortable stress, or enduring a very painful transition in life, together we can find answers that will renew hope and help you feel empowered to change your life. I practice Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and recognize that the patient is the expert in their own life. I work collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families to find unique solutions to complex problems. I believe focusing on patient strengths, not weaknesses, elicits hope and leaves room for meaningful and long lasting change. ​
I am unfortunately not taking new clients at this time*** I strongly believe that whether someone is simply going through some uncomfortable stress, or enduring a very painful transition in life, together we can find answers that will renew hope and help you feel empowered to change your life. I practice Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and recognize that the patient is the expert in their own life. I work collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families to find unique solutions to complex problems. I believe focusing on patient strengths, not weaknesses, elicits hope and leaves room for meaningful and long lasting change. ​
(319) 774-6546 View (319) 774-6546
Photo of Leslie Caton Frey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Leslie Caton Frey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, t-LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Feeling stuck in a relationship, job, or past experience? Maybe you don't understand why you feel the way you do or why you can't stop doing something you don't want or why you can't start doing something you do. Maybe you're dealing with something really painful that you need to work through but don't know how. You're the expert on your life, your strengths, and what you need to thrive. Sometimes you - and all of us - just need a little help to see it.
Feeling stuck in a relationship, job, or past experience? Maybe you don't understand why you feel the way you do or why you can't stop doing something you don't want or why you can't start doing something you do. Maybe you're dealing with something really painful that you need to work through but don't know how. You're the expert on your life, your strengths, and what you need to thrive. Sometimes you - and all of us - just need a little help to see it.
(319) 255-2834 View (319) 255-2834
Photo of Carlie Dellmann, Mental Health Counselor in Hiawatha, IA
Carlie Dellmann
Mental Health Counselor, MA, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
The decision to start therapy for yourself or your child can be an overwhelming, daunting task. My hope is that this information will ease some of those fears and empower you to make the decision that is best for you. I will work with you collaboratively to create therapeutic goals and to develop the skills to achieve them. I hope to provide room for you to explore both your difficulties along with your strengths and achievements.
The decision to start therapy for yourself or your child can be an overwhelming, daunting task. My hope is that this information will ease some of those fears and empower you to make the decision that is best for you. I will work with you collaboratively to create therapeutic goals and to develop the skills to achieve them. I hope to provide room for you to explore both your difficulties along with your strengths and achievements.
(319) 727-8266 View (319) 727-8266
Photo of Emmalyne Farwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hiawatha, IA
Emmalyne Farwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Currently accepting new clients! Throughout my past professional experiences working with victims of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and other types of violent traumas, I walked alongside clients as they lived through some of the most difficult chapters in their stories. Being trusted with someone's story is an honor and a privilege, and should never be taken lightly. When a client walks into my office, my goal is to ensure that they feel safe, supported, valued, and empowered. There are numerous systems that people interact with that can have major impacts on their lives.
Currently accepting new clients! Throughout my past professional experiences working with victims of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and other types of violent traumas, I walked alongside clients as they lived through some of the most difficult chapters in their stories. Being trusted with someone's story is an honor and a privilege, and should never be taken lightly. When a client walks into my office, my goal is to ensure that they feel safe, supported, valued, and empowered. There are numerous systems that people interact with that can have major impacts on their lives.
(319) 448-3949 View (319) 448-3949

See more therapy options for Hiawatha

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hiawatha, IA

50+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Hiawatha, IA who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
84% Trauma and PTSD
78% Relationship Issues
78% Stress
74% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Wellmark BCBS
60% Midlands Choice

How Therapists in Hiawatha, IA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

86% Female
12% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hiawatha?

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.