Therapists in Holland, MI

Photo of Mark Edwin Westrate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland, MI
Mark Edwin Westrate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Are you stressed out about your life? Does your partner seem distant, angry and cold? Do you worry about your children and teenagers who seem out of control? Are you at your wits end and beginning to feel hopeless about this? Do you struggle with guilt and feel stuck in bad habits,even addictions?
Are you stressed out about your life? Does your partner seem distant, angry and cold? Do you worry about your children and teenagers who seem out of control? Are you at your wits end and beginning to feel hopeless about this? Do you struggle with guilt and feel stuck in bad habits,even addictions?
(616) 828-1501 View (616) 828-1501
Photo of Clara Starr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland, MI
Clara Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424
I recognize that telling our stories is not always easy, and I am honored to walk alongside those who choose to share their stories with me for a time. I particularly enjoy working with young adults in seasons of self-discovery or life transitions, and specialize in providing therapy to 17-30 year olds. Young adulthood is full of unique, and often overwhelming questions like “Who do I really want to be? How do I create the life I want for myself? Will I succeed? Where do I start?” I will offer support as we explore these questions and develop the vision, skills, and confidence to move forward.
I recognize that telling our stories is not always easy, and I am honored to walk alongside those who choose to share their stories with me for a time. I particularly enjoy working with young adults in seasons of self-discovery or life transitions, and specialize in providing therapy to 17-30 year olds. Young adulthood is full of unique, and often overwhelming questions like “Who do I really want to be? How do I create the life I want for myself? Will I succeed? Where do I start?” I will offer support as we explore these questions and develop the vision, skills, and confidence to move forward.
(616) 805-3660 x5555 View (616) 805-3660 x5555
Photo of Michelle McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Holland, MI
Michelle McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
My goal is to spark change in people’s lives and relationships. I believe that everyone has the ability to make changes. I use a holistic approach to help people develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all levels. The process of therapy is a great tool to help you grow when you are ready to do the work and unlock your innate capability to explore yourself. Therapy is about being there to help people explore their histories, uncover patterns and make choices to let go and move forward. If you are struggling because life has given you obstacles with communication and connections, I want to help you take back your life.
My goal is to spark change in people’s lives and relationships. I believe that everyone has the ability to make changes. I use a holistic approach to help people develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all levels. The process of therapy is a great tool to help you grow when you are ready to do the work and unlock your innate capability to explore yourself. Therapy is about being there to help people explore their histories, uncover patterns and make choices to let go and move forward. If you are struggling because life has given you obstacles with communication and connections, I want to help you take back your life.
(616) 773-1633 View (616) 773-1633
Photo of Matthew Mulder, Counselor in Holland, MI
Matthew Mulder
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I specialize in walking with individual's who are struggling with pornography addiction or other forms of unwanted sexual behavior. I also walk with individuals who have experienced the horrors of sexual, physical, emotional or spiritual abuse and the stress that often follows. And I have a heart for journeying with individual's who are grieving and those who are struggling with questions of identity and spirituality.
I specialize in walking with individual's who are struggling with pornography addiction or other forms of unwanted sexual behavior. I also walk with individuals who have experienced the horrors of sexual, physical, emotional or spiritual abuse and the stress that often follows. And I have a heart for journeying with individual's who are grieving and those who are struggling with questions of identity and spirituality.
(616) 303-4763 View (616) 303-4763
Photo of Olivia Brower, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland, MI
Olivia Brower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
First of all, I am so glad you are here. Beginning the process of seeking therapy can be daunting. Working with women who are facing various issues with life transitions, trauma, and mental health is my passion. Life is challenging and change is hard. Life changes in so many different ways throughout the lifespan whether it be the transition to college, the journey of motherhood, loss, changes in relationships, or career shifts. My goal is to walk with you through the changes of life, and the difficulties that come from these changes. Getting support and learning skills can help you thrive in whatever life stage you are in.
First of all, I am so glad you are here. Beginning the process of seeking therapy can be daunting. Working with women who are facing various issues with life transitions, trauma, and mental health is my passion. Life is challenging and change is hard. Life changes in so many different ways throughout the lifespan whether it be the transition to college, the journey of motherhood, loss, changes in relationships, or career shifts. My goal is to walk with you through the changes of life, and the difficulties that come from these changes. Getting support and learning skills can help you thrive in whatever life stage you are in.
(616) 300-2327 x657 View (616) 300-2327 x657
Photo of Elizabeth Davis, Psychologist in Holland, MI
Elizabeth Davis
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
I have over ten years of experience in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), specific phobias, panic disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, school anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, and depression. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders across the lifespan (ages 4+), and have particular expertise in working with children and adolescents. I utilize innovative, evidence-based treatments informed by the latest science and cutting edge research. I also currently offer Virtual Reality treatment for many difficult to treat symptoms (fear of needles, flying, bugs, driving, and more!)
I have over ten years of experience in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), specific phobias, panic disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, school anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, and depression. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders across the lifespan (ages 4+), and have particular expertise in working with children and adolescents. I utilize innovative, evidence-based treatments informed by the latest science and cutting edge research. I also currently offer Virtual Reality treatment for many difficult to treat symptoms (fear of needles, flying, bugs, driving, and more!)
(475) 882-8770 View (475) 882-8770
Photo of Ben Gitler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland, MI
Ben Gitler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49424  (Online Only)
Having had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, spanning pre-teens through late teens, and have helped people experiencing anxiety, anger, family and relationship issues. My experience includes both school and clinical settings, and recognizing personal strengths, fostering trusting therapeutic relationships, and creating an accepting environment are at the core of my practice.
Having had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, spanning pre-teens through late teens, and have helped people experiencing anxiety, anger, family and relationship issues. My experience includes both school and clinical settings, and recognizing personal strengths, fostering trusting therapeutic relationships, and creating an accepting environment are at the core of my practice.
(616) 537-2691 View (616) 537-2691
Photo of Tony Bordenkircher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Holland, MI
Tony Bordenkircher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist in the Holland / Zeeland area providing supportive yet challenging services in my specialty areas of couples, family, and their teens. I also specialize in the assessment and treatment of Sexual Addiction. Clients choose me because of my specific training, particularly with couples, and my ability to integrate matters of faith. Please view my website or contact me to schedule an appointment!
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist in the Holland / Zeeland area providing supportive yet challenging services in my specialty areas of couples, family, and their teens. I also specialize in the assessment and treatment of Sexual Addiction. Clients choose me because of my specific training, particularly with couples, and my ability to integrate matters of faith. Please view my website or contact me to schedule an appointment!
(616) 420-2579 View (616) 420-2579
Photo of Christina Adamski, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Holland, MI
Christina Adamski
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49424
Our mission, at Footprints Counseling, is to walk alongside our clients as they navigate through the struggles of life. Life can be a tough at times with many different challenges to face. You do not have to walk that journey alone without support. Footprints Counseling is here to support you. Reach out to us on this journey of life and we will be there for you every step of the way to support, advocate and encourage you.
Our mission, at Footprints Counseling, is to walk alongside our clients as they navigate through the struggles of life. Life can be a tough at times with many different challenges to face. You do not have to walk that journey alone without support. Footprints Counseling is here to support you. Reach out to us on this journey of life and we will be there for you every step of the way to support, advocate and encourage you.
(616) 219-8215 View (616) 219-8215
Photo of Elisabeth J VandenBerg, Counselor in Holland, MI
Elisabeth J VandenBerg
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Not accepting new clients
The world can be a confusing place, especially for the youngest members of our society. I enjoy providing support for children, teenagers, and young adults by getting to know them, their interests, and their difficulties. I focus on social/emotional skills such as communicating feelings in a healthy way and practicing emotional regulation skills. In my practice, I have noticed that self-awareness and understanding provides a good foundation for growth. These tools and others are helpful for navigating problems such as anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, depression, and relationship difficulties.
The world can be a confusing place, especially for the youngest members of our society. I enjoy providing support for children, teenagers, and young adults by getting to know them, their interests, and their difficulties. I focus on social/emotional skills such as communicating feelings in a healthy way and practicing emotional regulation skills. In my practice, I have noticed that self-awareness and understanding provides a good foundation for growth. These tools and others are helpful for navigating problems such as anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, depression, and relationship difficulties.
(616) 984-1065 View (616) 984-1065
Photo of Dawnita Diaz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland, MI
Dawnita Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
When a person chooses to participate in counseling I see this as a brave step in investing in yourself in a positive way. I am honored to partner with each person in their journey of healing, self-acceptance, understanding, and growth. We will work together to identify what is important to you to focus on, and the steps to take to pursue the goals you have identified using a holistic approach to treatment. I believe it is important to care for the whole self: physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
When a person chooses to participate in counseling I see this as a brave step in investing in yourself in a positive way. I am honored to partner with each person in their journey of healing, self-acceptance, understanding, and growth. We will work together to identify what is important to you to focus on, and the steps to take to pursue the goals you have identified using a holistic approach to treatment. I believe it is important to care for the whole self: physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
(616) 344-6231 View (616) 344-6231
Photo of Lindsey Bandy Blodgett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Holland, MI
Lindsey Bandy Blodgett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Life can get messy. Maybe you found yourself in a situation you didn't choose for yourself, or maybe you can't seem to shake that gnawing anxiety or the voice that says "you will never be enough". Perhaps you found yourself reeling in the wake of someone else's choices, or maybe even your own. Or maybe you are a parent watching helplessly as you see your son or daughter struggle. That's where I come in. I value the opportunity to be invited into life's most fragile areas and walk alongside you toward freedom, wholeness and hope.
Life can get messy. Maybe you found yourself in a situation you didn't choose for yourself, or maybe you can't seem to shake that gnawing anxiety or the voice that says "you will never be enough". Perhaps you found yourself reeling in the wake of someone else's choices, or maybe even your own. Or maybe you are a parent watching helplessly as you see your son or daughter struggle. That's where I come in. I value the opportunity to be invited into life's most fragile areas and walk alongside you toward freedom, wholeness and hope.
(616) 226-9636 View (616) 226-9636
Photo of Joel Whitney, Counselor, Counselor in Holland, MI
Joel Whitney, Counselor
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Joel is a Christian Counselor in Holland MI who works exclusively with children and teens, and helps parents reclaim confidence and joy in parenting. Joel is focused exclusively on kids and family. His passion and expertise lie in his love of kids and getting to know them. He specializes in childhood & adolescent issues, parenting strategies, and coping through divorce. Joel excels at making connections with kids and parents and helping them navigate through the frustrations of family life to reach a place of peace and joy.
Joel is a Christian Counselor in Holland MI who works exclusively with children and teens, and helps parents reclaim confidence and joy in parenting. Joel is focused exclusively on kids and family. His passion and expertise lie in his love of kids and getting to know them. He specializes in childhood & adolescent issues, parenting strategies, and coping through divorce. Joel excels at making connections with kids and parents and helping them navigate through the frustrations of family life to reach a place of peace and joy.
(616) 548-6081 View (616) 548-6081
Photo of Kelley Charles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland, MI
Kelley Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I provide counseling for children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have years of experience working directly with children - including working with children in the foster care system, caring for children in the public school system, and therapeutically supporting children. My goal is to work with individuals who need guidance in the struggles of life. I am open to all walks of life and strive to create a supportive mentorship role with all clients.
I provide counseling for children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have years of experience working directly with children - including working with children in the foster care system, caring for children in the public school system, and therapeutically supporting children. My goal is to work with individuals who need guidance in the struggles of life. I am open to all walks of life and strive to create a supportive mentorship role with all clients.
(616) 439-6512 View (616) 439-6512
Photo of Anxiety Depression O C D And Couples Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Holland, MI
Anxiety Depression O C D And Couples Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MSJ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49424
MIchael Angelo treats Anxiety: Whatever form of anxiety you have, treatment can help, especially if you feel like you’re worrying too much and it’s interfering with your work, relationships, or other parts of your life. If your anxiety is upsetting to you and difficult to control, seek out counseling. Depression: Although depression may occur only once in a person’s life, people typically have multiple episodes. During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day. Why live like this when you don’t have to?
MIchael Angelo treats Anxiety: Whatever form of anxiety you have, treatment can help, especially if you feel like you’re worrying too much and it’s interfering with your work, relationships, or other parts of your life. If your anxiety is upsetting to you and difficult to control, seek out counseling. Depression: Although depression may occur only once in a person’s life, people typically have multiple episodes. During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day. Why live like this when you don’t have to?
(616) 449-2699 View (616) 449-2699
Photo of Lara Brazle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Holland, MI
Lara Brazle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LLMFT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone has a purpose and a story. We are all also connected to each other by our stories. I work with couples that are struggling in their partnerships and need help with reconnection or conflict mediation. I work with families that desire for stronger connection. Whether it’s a loss you’ve experienced and need someone to help you process it, or a child struggling in school, I want to help you with those and everything in between. I work with individuals as well. Depression, anxiety, and life transitions are difficult to process on your own and are emotions or circumstances almost everyone can relate to.
I believe that everyone has a purpose and a story. We are all also connected to each other by our stories. I work with couples that are struggling in their partnerships and need help with reconnection or conflict mediation. I work with families that desire for stronger connection. Whether it’s a loss you’ve experienced and need someone to help you process it, or a child struggling in school, I want to help you with those and everything in between. I work with individuals as well. Depression, anxiety, and life transitions are difficult to process on your own and are emotions or circumstances almost everyone can relate to.
(616) 303-0465 x750 View (616) 303-0465 x750
Photo of Sara A. Showalter Van Tongeren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Holland, MI
Sara A. Showalter Van Tongeren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, BSP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423  (Online Only)
Life brings many changing seasons that present new challenges and struggles. Throughout the seasons of life, you can find meaning and hope. People who decide to reach out and seek to find meaning and hope are courageous. It can be difficult to be honest and look at your life's path; however, I am continually amazed at each client's strength and desire for freedom in their life. I thoroughly enjoy providing additional support that can meet each client's needs. I primarily work with female-identifying adults who are wanting to rediscover their identity and increase their own sense of empowerment.
Life brings many changing seasons that present new challenges and struggles. Throughout the seasons of life, you can find meaning and hope. People who decide to reach out and seek to find meaning and hope are courageous. It can be difficult to be honest and look at your life's path; however, I am continually amazed at each client's strength and desire for freedom in their life. I thoroughly enjoy providing additional support that can meet each client's needs. I primarily work with female-identifying adults who are wanting to rediscover their identity and increase their own sense of empowerment.
(616) 827-7807 View (616) 827-7807
Photo of Cynthia Helen Pollet, Licensed Professional Counselor in Holland, MI
Cynthia Helen Pollet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423  (Online Only)
For many people, meeting with a counselor for the first time can be an awkward experience; I try to make the process more comfortable. My office is a safe place for you to unload your burdens, to hear an objective perspective about your concerns. My purpose as a counselor is to meet you where you are, help you discover healthy coping skills, and to lead you toward hope and healing. Whether your issues are personal or relational, I will listen with an empathetic ear, non-judgmentally, guiding you toward the change you are seeking.
For many people, meeting with a counselor for the first time can be an awkward experience; I try to make the process more comfortable. My office is a safe place for you to unload your burdens, to hear an objective perspective about your concerns. My purpose as a counselor is to meet you where you are, help you discover healthy coping skills, and to lead you toward hope and healing. Whether your issues are personal or relational, I will listen with an empathetic ear, non-judgmentally, guiding you toward the change you are seeking.
(616) 504-2009 View (616) 504-2009
Photo of Lennis Baggech, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Holland, MI
Lennis Baggech
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I've been in practice 25 yrs - with individuals/couples & families -- kids 6+, many teens, college students & adults. I'm shamelessly informal -- no ties or pressed shirts here!. The office is quite unique - - very large, ultra comfy, w/MANY natural oddities... slightly chaotic -- like life! Good strong coffee/tea/soda & munchies always available. Pets welcome. I'm adopted myself, a licensed foster parent, & work with trauma and attachment. I have a multi-cultural family & lived abroad (Africa). I do co-parenting therapy & am also very familiar w/court systems, working with Dr.'s, lawyers, schools and custody issues.
I've been in practice 25 yrs - with individuals/couples & families -- kids 6+, many teens, college students & adults. I'm shamelessly informal -- no ties or pressed shirts here!. The office is quite unique - - very large, ultra comfy, w/MANY natural oddities... slightly chaotic -- like life! Good strong coffee/tea/soda & munchies always available. Pets welcome. I'm adopted myself, a licensed foster parent, & work with trauma and attachment. I have a multi-cultural family & lived abroad (Africa). I do co-parenting therapy & am also very familiar w/court systems, working with Dr.'s, lawyers, schools and custody issues.
(616) 504-2403 View (616) 504-2403
Photo of Rosemary Cruz, Counselor in Holland, MI
Rosemary Cruz
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Not accepting new clients
My education consists of a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Hispanic Studies from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Aquinas College. Currently, I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) in the State of Michigan, where I have the ability to diagnose and treat clinical mental health disorders. Through my limited licensure period, I continuously receive supervision from a fully Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), where I am able to improve my ability to treat and diagnose my clients.
My education consists of a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Hispanic Studies from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Aquinas College. Currently, I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) in the State of Michigan, where I have the ability to diagnose and treat clinical mental health disorders. Through my limited licensure period, I continuously receive supervision from a fully Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), where I am able to improve my ability to treat and diagnose my clients.
(616) 512-2659 View (616) 512-2659

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Holland, MI

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Holland, MI who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Priority Health
55% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Holland, MI see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Holland?

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.