Therapists in Johnson City, TN

Photo of Summer Ahmed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Summer Ahmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Waking up each day with constant depression, anxiety, and stress is a common experience for many. Despite what others say, you know these feelings are more than just in your head. Your body communicates these emotions through heart palpitations, migraines, and fatigue. Life feels challenging, and if you're a parent, you're worried about your child's well-being, self-esteem, and self-identity. In this therapeutic space, your needs and goals are the focus. Whether it's finding solace or helping your child, your journey is about healing, understanding, and lasting change. I'm here to assist you on your journey toward your potential.
Waking up each day with constant depression, anxiety, and stress is a common experience for many. Despite what others say, you know these feelings are more than just in your head. Your body communicates these emotions through heart palpitations, migraines, and fatigue. Life feels challenging, and if you're a parent, you're worried about your child's well-being, self-esteem, and self-identity. In this therapeutic space, your needs and goals are the focus. Whether it's finding solace or helping your child, your journey is about healing, understanding, and lasting change. I'm here to assist you on your journey toward your potential.
(423) 537-6521 View (423) 537-6521
Photo of Emily Hand, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Emily Hand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Existing can be tough, especially if you're part of a marginalized community, going through a difficult time, or have faced adversity and/or trauma. Our brains want to experience fulfillment and peace, but at times the familiar patterns or approaches we've tried aren't getting us the life we desire. Often we believe there's something wrong with us, when in reality it's what happened to us and the ripple effects of that which are causing us pain and suffering.
Existing can be tough, especially if you're part of a marginalized community, going through a difficult time, or have faced adversity and/or trauma. Our brains want to experience fulfillment and peace, but at times the familiar patterns or approaches we've tried aren't getting us the life we desire. Often we believe there's something wrong with us, when in reality it's what happened to us and the ripple effects of that which are causing us pain and suffering.
(423) 445-0251 View (423) 445-0251
Photo of Desarei Hoss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Desarei Hoss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604  (Online Only)
We all experience hardships in life, whether sudden or gradual. My experience of 15 years includes working with clients experiencing various life challenges including chronic health issues, grief, family dynamics and personal trauma to providing specialized care for Veterans facing combat-related stress and the effects of redeployment on personal and family well being. My approach emphasizes collaboration and affirmation, cultivating a safe and trusting therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their emotions and navigate their journey toward healing and resilience.
We all experience hardships in life, whether sudden or gradual. My experience of 15 years includes working with clients experiencing various life challenges including chronic health issues, grief, family dynamics and personal trauma to providing specialized care for Veterans facing combat-related stress and the effects of redeployment on personal and family well being. My approach emphasizes collaboration and affirmation, cultivating a safe and trusting therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their emotions and navigate their journey toward healing and resilience.
(423) 516-8148 View (423) 516-8148
Photo of Rachael Voelker - Sunny Path Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Johnson City, TN
Rachael Voelker - Sunny Path Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Rachael finds herself using Solution Focused and Behavioral Therapy due to the rapid results and retention of new skills. She believes that Mental Health should be treated the same as one who goes to the Medical Doctor for an illness, we want results, and that is what she wants to give you. Of course, all treatments are not the same and some bumps in the road take longer to repair. Rachael is willing and able to adjust her Therapeutic skills to meet your needs and is willing to walk right beside you as you heal, no matter how long it takes.
Rachael finds herself using Solution Focused and Behavioral Therapy due to the rapid results and retention of new skills. She believes that Mental Health should be treated the same as one who goes to the Medical Doctor for an illness, we want results, and that is what she wants to give you. Of course, all treatments are not the same and some bumps in the road take longer to repair. Rachael is willing and able to adjust her Therapeutic skills to meet your needs and is willing to walk right beside you as you heal, no matter how long it takes.
(423) 564-5962 View (423) 564-5962
Photo of Amanda K Chapman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Amanda K Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, ANFT-C
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Life sometimes asks for help along the way, and that's why I'm here. I offer a unique approach to therapy that combines traditional counseling techniques with the healing power of nature. Whether you're dealing with life adjustments, grief, depression, anxiety, or seeking relationship healing, I'm here to support you. As an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Forest Therapy Guide, I've devoted my life's work to providing presence and objective voice for support and guidance, within an office setting as well as outdoors in nature. Please visit www.oneforestworld.com to learn more about me. Welcome!
Life sometimes asks for help along the way, and that's why I'm here. I offer a unique approach to therapy that combines traditional counseling techniques with the healing power of nature. Whether you're dealing with life adjustments, grief, depression, anxiety, or seeking relationship healing, I'm here to support you. As an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Forest Therapy Guide, I've devoted my life's work to providing presence and objective voice for support and guidance, within an office setting as well as outdoors in nature. Please visit www.oneforestworld.com to learn more about me. Welcome!
(423) 250-2218 View (423) 250-2218
Photo of Allison Alford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Allison Alford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Allison Alford is an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Service Provider engaging individuals and families to help them deal with life’s transitions and struggles. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she utilizes a compassionate, person-centered approach to helping her clients process and understand their own thoughts and emotions. Allison helps address issues such as relationship struggles, stress and anxiety, religious issues and trauma, and life transitions. Allison’s therapeutic approach is rooted in a belief that individuals can move towards their goals of healing
Allison Alford is an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Service Provider engaging individuals and families to help them deal with life’s transitions and struggles. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she utilizes a compassionate, person-centered approach to helping her clients process and understand their own thoughts and emotions. Allison helps address issues such as relationship struggles, stress and anxiety, religious issues and trauma, and life transitions. Allison’s therapeutic approach is rooted in a belief that individuals can move towards their goals of healing
(423) 799-3246 View (423) 799-3246
Photo of Eric Feltman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Eric Feltman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals to build better lives and relationships. I support individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, anger issues, and stress management. For individuals who feel stuck and hopeless, I help provide support, understanding, perspective, and direction. There are so many difficulties in life that are out of our control, and I help individuals develop the resilience to endure the hardships of life.
I enjoy working with individuals to build better lives and relationships. I support individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, anger issues, and stress management. For individuals who feel stuck and hopeless, I help provide support, understanding, perspective, and direction. There are so many difficulties in life that are out of our control, and I help individuals develop the resilience to endure the hardships of life.
(423) 561-9127 View (423) 561-9127
Photo of Jennifer Hasty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Jennifer Hasty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Not accepting new clients
Are you holding deep shame and embarrassment for something in the past that was beyond your control? Maybe you have a need to be in control or have everything perfect; or put others' needs first all the time, suffering from guilt for saying "no". Perhaps you have feelings of worthlessness, struggling with a paralyzing fear of going shopping on a busy day. Maybe physical symptoms like sleep disturbances, gut pain, racing heartbeat? When stress hormones flood your body, you're not working to full potential. Domestic violence, car accidents, sexual assault, childhood abuse, and sudden losses - all can be root causes to you symptoms.
Are you holding deep shame and embarrassment for something in the past that was beyond your control? Maybe you have a need to be in control or have everything perfect; or put others' needs first all the time, suffering from guilt for saying "no". Perhaps you have feelings of worthlessness, struggling with a paralyzing fear of going shopping on a busy day. Maybe physical symptoms like sleep disturbances, gut pain, racing heartbeat? When stress hormones flood your body, you're not working to full potential. Domestic violence, car accidents, sexual assault, childhood abuse, and sudden losses - all can be root causes to you symptoms.
(423) 427-2618 View (423) 427-2618
Photo of Whitewood Counseling & Consultation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Whitewood Counseling & Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Contact me (email preferred) if you are seeking counseling services ... or ... looking for someone to provide supervision for LPC licensure.
Contact me (email preferred) if you are seeking counseling services ... or ... looking for someone to provide supervision for LPC licensure.
(423) 225-8536 View (423) 225-8536
Photo of Life Connections Counseling Services in Johnson City, TN
Life Connections Counseling Services
LPC, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
At Life Connections Counseling, our unique perspectives of multiple therapeutic techniques create an inviting environment to address some of the most delicate topics. We are a multi-specialty group of providers that specialize in all walks of life. From small children (2 years and older), adolescents, families, marriage, and the senior population. Each Counselor has extensive experience working with the challenges that each stage of life presents. Please take a look at “Services” for contact information regarding our Team and to learn more about their areas of expertise. We also offer Multiple Support Groups.
At Life Connections Counseling, our unique perspectives of multiple therapeutic techniques create an inviting environment to address some of the most delicate topics. We are a multi-specialty group of providers that specialize in all walks of life. From small children (2 years and older), adolescents, families, marriage, and the senior population. Each Counselor has extensive experience working with the challenges that each stage of life presents. Please take a look at “Services” for contact information regarding our Team and to learn more about their areas of expertise. We also offer Multiple Support Groups.
(423) 454-2669 View (423) 454-2669
Photo of Matthew Wineman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Matthew Wineman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Let's be honest: the world is weird, and sometimes it's tough out there. Maybe you've had some big changes in your life lately, and you're feeling confused or even lost trying to navigate your rapidly evolving social environment. You want clarity, direction, and some solid tools to cut through the fog and build a path to the future you want.
Let's be honest: the world is weird, and sometimes it's tough out there. Maybe you've had some big changes in your life lately, and you're feeling confused or even lost trying to navigate your rapidly evolving social environment. You want clarity, direction, and some solid tools to cut through the fog and build a path to the future you want.
(423) 205-0994 View (423) 205-0994
Photo of Carly Hedrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Carly Hedrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Carly Hedrick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. Carly graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work from East Tennessee State University. She also earned a Master's degree in Divinity from Emmanuel Christian Seminary. Carly’s approach to therapy is shaped by past occupational experiences which have taught her to sit with others in painful emotions and stressful circumstances and listen with compassion, curiosity, and acceptance.
Carly Hedrick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. Carly graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work from East Tennessee State University. She also earned a Master's degree in Divinity from Emmanuel Christian Seminary. Carly’s approach to therapy is shaped by past occupational experiences which have taught her to sit with others in painful emotions and stressful circumstances and listen with compassion, curiosity, and acceptance.
(423) 482-9816 View (423) 482-9816
Photo of Alyssa Scott, Psychologist in Johnson City, TN
Alyssa Scott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Alyssa Scott is a Psychologist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of North Carolina at Asheville and her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Pacific University in Oregon. Alyssa's therapeutic style is an eclectic mix of evidence-based treatment modalities to help clients and families achieve their goals. She wanted to get her doctorate so that she could have the highest skill set possible to bring to her clients. As a clinician, Alyssa is warm, positive, enthusiastic, collaborative, and solution focused.
Alyssa Scott is a Psychologist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of North Carolina at Asheville and her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Pacific University in Oregon. Alyssa's therapeutic style is an eclectic mix of evidence-based treatment modalities to help clients and families achieve their goals. She wanted to get her doctorate so that she could have the highest skill set possible to bring to her clients. As a clinician, Alyssa is warm, positive, enthusiastic, collaborative, and solution focused.
(423) 592-5311 View (423) 592-5311
Photo of Tiffany McCaughey, Psychologist in Johnson City, TN
Tiffany McCaughey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604
As a licensed psychologist, I provide psychotherapy and psychoeducational assessment services for adults in TN (and states with PsyPact legislation). I have 15+ years experience working with young adults navigating college life. Common areas of practice include anxiety and depression management, identity development concerns, minority stress, and grief/loss. I have specialized training and practice supporting survivors of trauma through recovery. I am committed to providing affirming therapy services to those of marginalized identities and communities, including persons of color and LGBTIAQ folks.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide psychotherapy and psychoeducational assessment services for adults in TN (and states with PsyPact legislation). I have 15+ years experience working with young adults navigating college life. Common areas of practice include anxiety and depression management, identity development concerns, minority stress, and grief/loss. I have specialized training and practice supporting survivors of trauma through recovery. I am committed to providing affirming therapy services to those of marginalized identities and communities, including persons of color and LGBTIAQ folks.
(423) 375-0369 View (423) 375-0369
Photo of Angelia Bradley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Angelia Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604
I believe that everyone can discover and be their "best self"! We all may just need a little help sometime getting to that point. We cannot go back and change the past....but can only start from today, where we are right now, and create our best future! We will work together in discovering the obstacles that are in your path and create a plan to get you on the right path.
I believe that everyone can discover and be their "best self"! We all may just need a little help sometime getting to that point. We cannot go back and change the past....but can only start from today, where we are right now, and create our best future! We will work together in discovering the obstacles that are in your path and create a plan to get you on the right path.
(423) 301-5635 View (423) 301-5635
Photo of Lyndsey Jolley ⬝ Specialized Biblical Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Lyndsey Jolley ⬝ Specialized Biblical Counselor
MPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
ATTN Christian Women age 35+ in the marketplace or in ministry, caring for children, or retired. Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck? I serve clients online internationally and in-person locally. I am a Specialized Gospel-Centered Counselor and Coach with a focus on spiritual, emotional, and relational health — through life-giving connection with Christ and gospel-centered transformation. If you are need of clarity, peace, wisdom or healing, you are in the right place. My practice is based on the 13 years of personal RESULTS-BASED research. I am here to help you walk into real-life FREEDOM, healing, and victory in Christ.
ATTN Christian Women age 35+ in the marketplace or in ministry, caring for children, or retired. Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck? I serve clients online internationally and in-person locally. I am a Specialized Gospel-Centered Counselor and Coach with a focus on spiritual, emotional, and relational health — through life-giving connection with Christ and gospel-centered transformation. If you are need of clarity, peace, wisdom or healing, you are in the right place. My practice is based on the 13 years of personal RESULTS-BASED research. I am here to help you walk into real-life FREEDOM, healing, and victory in Christ.
(423) 301-5506 View (423) 301-5506
Photo of Brooke Holland Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Brooke Holland Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604
To those of you who are finding it hard to function at the level you are used to, the ones desperate for healing from a painful childhood, the ones who are dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, or struggling to put into words what they are going through, Welcome. To the ones needing support as you navigate a difficult season of your life, the ones seeking support for your beloved child, and the ones needing direction in resolving family crisis and conflict, Welcome. To those of you who feel lost, grieved, alone, or overwhelmed, Welcome. You don't have to do it alone. I see you and I want to help you through it.
To those of you who are finding it hard to function at the level you are used to, the ones desperate for healing from a painful childhood, the ones who are dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, or struggling to put into words what they are going through, Welcome. To the ones needing support as you navigate a difficult season of your life, the ones seeking support for your beloved child, and the ones needing direction in resolving family crisis and conflict, Welcome. To those of you who feel lost, grieved, alone, or overwhelmed, Welcome. You don't have to do it alone. I see you and I want to help you through it.
(423) 524-9836 View (423) 524-9836
Photo of Willow & Arbor, PLLC in Johnson City, TN
Willow & Arbor, PLLC
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Willow & Arbor, PLLC is a group therapy practice serving the Tri-Cities, TN area in person and via telehealth. Our providers recognize that there are no 'one-size fits all' treatment options. We are focused on meeting you where you are and co-creating change with you. We focus on creating a context of privacy, empathy, and insight where our clients are fully seen and heard. We treat children, teens, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples sessions.
Willow & Arbor, PLLC is a group therapy practice serving the Tri-Cities, TN area in person and via telehealth. Our providers recognize that there are no 'one-size fits all' treatment options. We are focused on meeting you where you are and co-creating change with you. We focus on creating a context of privacy, empathy, and insight where our clients are fully seen and heard. We treat children, teens, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples sessions.
(423) 607-8988 View (423) 607-8988
Photo of Inspired Hope Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Inspired Hope Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Are you experiencing memories of traumatic events that are impacting your life in a negative manner? Does it feel like the pain and self blame you are feeling will never go away? Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, grieving over the loss of a loved one, or experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
Are you experiencing memories of traumatic events that are impacting your life in a negative manner? Does it feel like the pain and self blame you are feeling will never go away? Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, grieving over the loss of a loved one, or experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
(423) 482-8933 View (423) 482-8933
Photo of Jennifer Maxson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Jennifer Maxson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Jennifer's philosophy is "one day, and one step at a time. " She works to create a welcoming and supportive therapeutic atmosphere, working in partnership with clients to help them define their challenges and create simple objectives on their path towards achieving their mental health goals. Jennifer takes a holistic overview with clients, helping them explore all facets of their life and environment as a means to understand and address areas of struggle. Her approach offers an inclusive, comfortable setting, taking each client's personal background and culture into consideration.
Jennifer's philosophy is "one day, and one step at a time. " She works to create a welcoming and supportive therapeutic atmosphere, working in partnership with clients to help them define their challenges and create simple objectives on their path towards achieving their mental health goals. Jennifer takes a holistic overview with clients, helping them explore all facets of their life and environment as a means to understand and address areas of struggle. Her approach offers an inclusive, comfortable setting, taking each client's personal background and culture into consideration.
(423) 456-9936 View (423) 456-9936

See more therapy options for Johnson City

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Johnson City, TN

100+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Johnson City, TN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
67% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Cigna and Evernorth
76% Aetna
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Johnson City, TN see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Johnson City?

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.