Therapists in Royal Oak, MI

Photo of Joy Laurallee Cavanaugh, Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Joy Laurallee Cavanaugh
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
If you have hit a rough patch and need help sorting things through you can be sure that I will provide you with a safe and warm space to explore. I bring 20+ years of experience working with individuals and families. My approach is holistic and person centered with an emphasis on collaboration. You will find me to be compassionate yet no-nonsense. We provide a "Good Faith Estimate for Health Care Items and Services," under the No Surprises Act. My philosophy comes from Dr. Martin Luther King JR: "I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you are supposed to be....."
If you have hit a rough patch and need help sorting things through you can be sure that I will provide you with a safe and warm space to explore. I bring 20+ years of experience working with individuals and families. My approach is holistic and person centered with an emphasis on collaboration. You will find me to be compassionate yet no-nonsense. We provide a "Good Faith Estimate for Health Care Items and Services," under the No Surprises Act. My philosophy comes from Dr. Martin Luther King JR: "I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you are supposed to be....."
(248) 546-9402 View (248) 546-9402
Photo of Cotrena Chambliss, Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Cotrena Chambliss
Counselor, MSC , MHC, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073  (Online Only)
I provide Behavioral Mental Health Therapy for Children and Families/ seeking services for Infant Mental Health. I work with Pregnant moms. Dads with depression past/current history of loss or trauma lack of social support seeking therapy for positive coping skills and childcare practices. I provide individual therapy for women and men looking to make life changes for the future. Parents with children seeking counseling services for Intellectual Developmental Delayed. Looking to meeting your full Expectations with all your dreams and aspirations I offer motivational and positive encouragement group and Individual Therapy.
I provide Behavioral Mental Health Therapy for Children and Families/ seeking services for Infant Mental Health. I work with Pregnant moms. Dads with depression past/current history of loss or trauma lack of social support seeking therapy for positive coping skills and childcare practices. I provide individual therapy for women and men looking to make life changes for the future. Parents with children seeking counseling services for Intellectual Developmental Delayed. Looking to meeting your full Expectations with all your dreams and aspirations I offer motivational and positive encouragement group and Individual Therapy.
(248) 422-0499 View (248) 422-0499
Photo of Jan Champion, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Jan Champion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Are you feeling sad, depressed or lonely? Do you long for greater happiness & intimacy in your relationships? As a creative & skilled psychotherapist, I bring over 25 years of experience working with individuals & couples, teaching them how to transform conflicts into closeness; to overcome infidelity and trust issues; to learn effective problem-solving skills; and to develop a deeper, more respectful & loving relationship with themselves and others.
Are you feeling sad, depressed or lonely? Do you long for greater happiness & intimacy in your relationships? As a creative & skilled psychotherapist, I bring over 25 years of experience working with individuals & couples, teaching them how to transform conflicts into closeness; to overcome infidelity and trust issues; to learn effective problem-solving skills; and to develop a deeper, more respectful & loving relationship with themselves and others.
(248) 487-9080 View (248) 487-9080
Photo of Noor Hamzeh, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Noor Hamzeh
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
My primary goal as an effective clinician is to work with compassion and drive to help individuals find solutions to life’s struggles while improving their interpersonal relationships and encouraging self-actualization. As a master’s level clinician, I work in a private practice where I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
My primary goal as an effective clinician is to work with compassion and drive to help individuals find solutions to life’s struggles while improving their interpersonal relationships and encouraging self-actualization. As a master’s level clinician, I work in a private practice where I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(248) 292-3252 View (248) 292-3252
Photo of Holly Ann Nabozny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Holly Ann Nabozny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I do extensive work with people that find themselves feeling "stuck" and are ready live a more fulfilling life. Much of my work is based in the treatment of adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction (including food disorders), dissociative disorders, adjustments and transitions, women's issues, relationships and personal growth.
I do extensive work with people that find themselves feeling "stuck" and are ready live a more fulfilling life. Much of my work is based in the treatment of adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction (including food disorders), dissociative disorders, adjustments and transitions, women's issues, relationships and personal growth.
(248) 327-0279 View (248) 327-0279
Photo of Matt Sweet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Matt Sweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073
For 20 years I have been helping people through difficult times in their lives. Difficulties like anxiety, depression, stressful life changes, and issues with relationships and sexuality. I have seen hundreds of clients and helped them recognize what's really holding them back. My practice is grounded in these core beliefs: We all can change; all people are worthy of dignity and respect; everyone is deserving of love; the answers to our struggles are inside us.
For 20 years I have been helping people through difficult times in their lives. Difficulties like anxiety, depression, stressful life changes, and issues with relationships and sexuality. I have seen hundreds of clients and helped them recognize what's really holding them back. My practice is grounded in these core beliefs: We all can change; all people are worthy of dignity and respect; everyone is deserving of love; the answers to our struggles are inside us.
(248) 846-0069 View (248) 846-0069
Photo of Tricia Cassady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Tricia Cassady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
No matter how hard you try, you can’t show up in your life the way you imagine and intend to. You fantasize about your ideal life, but unhealthy patterns keep you from showing up for yourself and those you care about in ways that don’t align with your values. It’s difficult for you to be present, which causes disruption in all areas of your life and increases your anxiety. You feel ashamed of your reaction to stress, which makes you feel lonely and disconnected. You know you need to prioritize yourself and set boundaries, but you’re fearful that this might cause another disruption, which is just too overwhelming.
No matter how hard you try, you can’t show up in your life the way you imagine and intend to. You fantasize about your ideal life, but unhealthy patterns keep you from showing up for yourself and those you care about in ways that don’t align with your values. It’s difficult for you to be present, which causes disruption in all areas of your life and increases your anxiety. You feel ashamed of your reaction to stress, which makes you feel lonely and disconnected. You know you need to prioritize yourself and set boundaries, but you’re fearful that this might cause another disruption, which is just too overwhelming.
(248) 780-6018 View (248) 780-6018
Photo of Diane Mae Tunison, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Diane Mae Tunison
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
At times in life, you have been faced with overwhelming situations, challenges, and struggles. You may be existing in a day-to-day state of feeling inadequate, unaccepted, indecisive, unmotivated, and in mental, physical, and spiritual disarray. Your body is fatigued yet your mind continues to race creating unwanted scenarios leading to anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, codependency, trauma, and relationship concerns. You may feel stuck in unhealthy patterns and cycles with minimal support. You may feel powerless. Powerless to let go, start over, and risk being vulnerable.
At times in life, you have been faced with overwhelming situations, challenges, and struggles. You may be existing in a day-to-day state of feeling inadequate, unaccepted, indecisive, unmotivated, and in mental, physical, and spiritual disarray. Your body is fatigued yet your mind continues to race creating unwanted scenarios leading to anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, codependency, trauma, and relationship concerns. You may feel stuck in unhealthy patterns and cycles with minimal support. You may feel powerless. Powerless to let go, start over, and risk being vulnerable.
(248) 780-0018 View (248) 780-0018
Photo of Christine Turton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Christine Turton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I have 11 years of experience providing individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and psychological evaluations to children, teens and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD and Depression. I value mindfulness techniques and am knowledgeable of a variety of therapy models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal and Family Systems and Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT).
I have 11 years of experience providing individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and psychological evaluations to children, teens and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD and Depression. I value mindfulness techniques and am knowledgeable of a variety of therapy models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal and Family Systems and Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT).
(248) 671-6522 View (248) 671-6522
Photo of Dr. Sarah Brotsky & Associates, PLC, Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Dr. Sarah Brotsky & Associates, PLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a free phone consultation and will address any questions you may have about the therapy process prior to us meeting. As a Clinical Psychologist for 23 years, I’ve dedicated my time and energy toward encouraging people to live their authentic self in a way that empowers them to create the life they would like to have by choice. I utilize a very conscious, client-centered, humanistic approach, that allows people like yourself to cope effectively with various concerns such as anxiety and depression, interpersonal relationship issues, PTSD, Closed Head Injury, chronic physical pain, and eating disorders.
I provide a free phone consultation and will address any questions you may have about the therapy process prior to us meeting. As a Clinical Psychologist for 23 years, I’ve dedicated my time and energy toward encouraging people to live their authentic self in a way that empowers them to create the life they would like to have by choice. I utilize a very conscious, client-centered, humanistic approach, that allows people like yourself to cope effectively with various concerns such as anxiety and depression, interpersonal relationship issues, PTSD, Closed Head Injury, chronic physical pain, and eating disorders.
(248) 955-4610 View (248) 955-4610
Photo of Robert J Flewelling, Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Robert J Flewelling
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
I provide psychotherapy, counseling and group therapy for anxiety, depression, bereavement, grief, men's issues, anger management, substance abuse/addiction and a wide range of other personal, family and marital problems, including couples counseling. Also, I have advanced substance abuse/addiction education and training. From this foundation, I have a solid understanding of the role that drugs, including prescription drugs and the brains own natural compounds, have in affecting a person's mental and emotional health.
I provide psychotherapy, counseling and group therapy for anxiety, depression, bereavement, grief, men's issues, anger management, substance abuse/addiction and a wide range of other personal, family and marital problems, including couples counseling. Also, I have advanced substance abuse/addiction education and training. From this foundation, I have a solid understanding of the role that drugs, including prescription drugs and the brains own natural compounds, have in affecting a person's mental and emotional health.
(248) 764-5214 View (248) 764-5214
Photo of Liz Curriston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Liz Curriston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
I work well with someone who takes initiative, is motivated to work towards their treatment goals, and wants to learn about mental health. People who are open to feedback and discussion, and this goes both ways! It's very important that we are able to build a therapeutic bond, trust and respect with each other. Humor is appreciated in my sessions, I think laughter is a wonderful coping mechanism!
I work well with someone who takes initiative, is motivated to work towards their treatment goals, and wants to learn about mental health. People who are open to feedback and discussion, and this goes both ways! It's very important that we are able to build a therapeutic bond, trust and respect with each other. Humor is appreciated in my sessions, I think laughter is a wonderful coping mechanism!
(248) 965-4354 View (248) 965-4354
Photo of Elizabeth Eiten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Elizabeth Eiten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
It feels like no matter how hard you try you will never be good enough. Others see you as successful, but you feel you are hardly getting by. You wish you felt a broader sense of connection in your relationships, but it feels scary to be authentic with your friends and family. You're tired of ruminating on the past and feeling anxious about the future. You feel stuck and unsure of how to get on track. You are looking for a holistic approach bringing in mindfulness meditation and other evidence-based alternative therapies. I can teach you how to tap into the profound wisdom you already have to make changes in your life.
It feels like no matter how hard you try you will never be good enough. Others see you as successful, but you feel you are hardly getting by. You wish you felt a broader sense of connection in your relationships, but it feels scary to be authentic with your friends and family. You're tired of ruminating on the past and feeling anxious about the future. You feel stuck and unsure of how to get on track. You are looking for a holistic approach bringing in mindfulness meditation and other evidence-based alternative therapies. I can teach you how to tap into the profound wisdom you already have to make changes in your life.
(313) 450-9728 View (313) 450-9728
Photo of Karen LaCourse, Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Karen LaCourse
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Dr. LaCourse is a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years experience as a psychotherapist. She holds additional specializations in health psychology and ecopsychology, and is a registerd nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each client. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, blending psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, and cultivating a closer connection with life. She has expertise in the treatment of a wide range of problems, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, relationship problems, traumatic stress, eating disorders, emotional overeating, and obesity.
Dr. LaCourse is a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years experience as a psychotherapist. She holds additional specializations in health psychology and ecopsychology, and is a registerd nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each client. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, blending psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, and cultivating a closer connection with life. She has expertise in the treatment of a wide range of problems, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, relationship problems, traumatic stress, eating disorders, emotional overeating, and obesity.
(248) 277-5110 View (248) 277-5110
Photo of Carly Cykiert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Carly Cykiert
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
You're looking for support, to feel understood, and cared for. You need someone that will be on your side. You're ready to take the first step in your journey of recovery, self-discovery, and self-care. You're ready to replace shame with kindness for yourself. Keeping in mind that you are an expert in your own life, I am here to support you as you make the change you will see for yourself through counseling. I offer a brave, safe, and accepting space for individuals and couples to feel empowered.
You're looking for support, to feel understood, and cared for. You need someone that will be on your side. You're ready to take the first step in your journey of recovery, self-discovery, and self-care. You're ready to replace shame with kindness for yourself. Keeping in mind that you are an expert in your own life, I am here to support you as you make the change you will see for yourself through counseling. I offer a brave, safe, and accepting space for individuals and couples to feel empowered.
(248) 319-6524 View (248) 319-6524
Photo of Michigan Progressive Health- Ketamine Infusions in Royal Oak, MI
Michigan Progressive Health- Ketamine Infusions
MD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
IV KETAMINE INFUSIONS - Michigan Progressive Health is a ketamine infusion clinic under the care of Dr. Megan Oxley in Royal Oak, MI. We treat depression, chronic pain, PTSD, CRPS, OCD, bipolar disorder and fibromyalgia. Ketamine is used in low doses in our office to shut down overactive neurons and help make your brain healthier. Research studies show improvement in 70-80% of patients who are treated with this medication. A series of IV infusions is used to alleviate the symptoms of depression, chronic pain and other mood disorders. Visit our website for more information.
IV KETAMINE INFUSIONS - Michigan Progressive Health is a ketamine infusion clinic under the care of Dr. Megan Oxley in Royal Oak, MI. We treat depression, chronic pain, PTSD, CRPS, OCD, bipolar disorder and fibromyalgia. Ketamine is used in low doses in our office to shut down overactive neurons and help make your brain healthier. Research studies show improvement in 70-80% of patients who are treated with this medication. A series of IV infusions is used to alleviate the symptoms of depression, chronic pain and other mood disorders. Visit our website for more information.
(947) 800-5072 View (947) 800-5072
Photo of Lea Dickinson, Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Lea Dickinson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
Waitlist for new clients
Life is difficult. Grief, loss, trauma and all of the existential concerns of relationships with others, the relationship with yourself and the meaning and purpose for your life and occupations, are all very real emotional problems. Effective therapy addresses these concerns in a way that nothing else can.
Life is difficult. Grief, loss, trauma and all of the existential concerns of relationships with others, the relationship with yourself and the meaning and purpose for your life and occupations, are all very real emotional problems. Effective therapy addresses these concerns in a way that nothing else can.
(248) 970-9703 View (248) 970-9703
Photo of Brian D. Wummel, Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Brian D. Wummel
Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My focus is to help those feeling lost discover the meaning to their suffering. I work with individual's wrestling with anxiety, substance abuse, depression, adjustment difficulties, and grief and loss. I believe that the therapeutic relationship holds the power to help everyone grow.
My focus is to help those feeling lost discover the meaning to their suffering. I work with individual's wrestling with anxiety, substance abuse, depression, adjustment difficulties, and grief and loss. I believe that the therapeutic relationship holds the power to help everyone grow.
(248) 731-5258 View (248) 731-5258
Photo of Ana M Tester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Ana M Tester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Ana and I might be your next (or first ever!) therapist. My practice focus tends to be on anxiety (including anxiety disorders), self esteem building, PTSD, C-PTSD, ADHD, trauma cycle breaking, relationship issues, emotional abuse/neglect recovery, depression, and other mood disorders. I try to use humor in my practice, when appropriate, and I strive to build a strong and meaningful rapport with all of my clients and each relationship is unique! I am a strong advocate for social justice and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! I'm Ana and I might be your next (or first ever!) therapist. My practice focus tends to be on anxiety (including anxiety disorders), self esteem building, PTSD, C-PTSD, ADHD, trauma cycle breaking, relationship issues, emotional abuse/neglect recovery, depression, and other mood disorders. I try to use humor in my practice, when appropriate, and I strive to build a strong and meaningful rapport with all of my clients and each relationship is unique! I am a strong advocate for social justice and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.
View
Photo of Heather Mae Heilman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Heather Mae Heilman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RN
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My ultimate goal is to help you in whatever way needed, and to guide you to personal heightened satisfaction, self-understanding and inner peace. Your goals are the driving force. We as individuals long to find personal fulfillment and success on our path. In our journey of life we hope to find what works best for each of us, in the healthiest way. I hope to be of the utmost service to you through my dedication, knowledge, expertise, compassion and understanding.
My ultimate goal is to help you in whatever way needed, and to guide you to personal heightened satisfaction, self-understanding and inner peace. Your goals are the driving force. We as individuals long to find personal fulfillment and success on our path. In our journey of life we hope to find what works best for each of us, in the healthiest way. I hope to be of the utmost service to you through my dedication, knowledge, expertise, compassion and understanding.
(248) 292-3432 View (248) 292-3432

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Royal Oak, MI

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Royal Oak, MI who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
81% Self Esteem
75% Coping Skills
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Blue Care Network
57% Aetna

How Therapists in Royal Oak, MI see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Royal Oak?

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.