Therapists in Saint Charles, MO

Photo of Michelle De Villar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, MO
Michelle De Villar
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303  (Online Only)
Life has been rough lately, and your emotions are becoming more and more overwhelming and are affecting you more often and more intensely. You're having a difficult time managing your emotions for yourself, and you feel your relationships have been impacted. Or, maybe you are stuck in a cycle of the same fight with your partner and need to communicate more effectively. Or maybe still, someone close in your life has found a way to make anything wrong in the relationship your fault and well, you believe them! Repair is available, and I can help guide you!
Life has been rough lately, and your emotions are becoming more and more overwhelming and are affecting you more often and more intensely. You're having a difficult time managing your emotions for yourself, and you feel your relationships have been impacted. Or, maybe you are stuck in a cycle of the same fight with your partner and need to communicate more effectively. Or maybe still, someone close in your life has found a way to make anything wrong in the relationship your fault and well, you believe them! Repair is available, and I can help guide you!
(636) 500-0879 View (636) 500-0879
Photo of Michelle Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Michelle Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63304  (Online Only)
You know those times when we feel lost inside ourselves, overwhelmed by our problems, and struggle to cope? If you are reading this, you may be considering therapy to get you closer to solving those problems. Whether your therapy goals are vague or well-defined, I can help you through this process of change. Together, we will formulate a plan, using the appropriate psychotherapeutic treatments, to achieve your personal goals. Because your time is important to you, we will begin creating this plan at your first visit!
You know those times when we feel lost inside ourselves, overwhelmed by our problems, and struggle to cope? If you are reading this, you may be considering therapy to get you closer to solving those problems. Whether your therapy goals are vague or well-defined, I can help you through this process of change. Together, we will formulate a plan, using the appropriate psychotherapeutic treatments, to achieve your personal goals. Because your time is important to you, we will begin creating this plan at your first visit!
(314) 485-4638 View (314) 485-4638
Photo of Michelle Robb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Michelle Robb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAGCS, APLB
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63301  (Online Only)
As a woman living with a life long birth defect, Spina Bifida, I have personal experience and a unique perspective on how disability can impact anxiety issues. I work with women to let them know they are not alone in their stress and anxiety, regardless of their circumstances. I also understand how debilitating grief can be and helping others in an area where there seems to be too little support and attention, the loss of our animal companion/family members, has become a passion of mine. I believe that everyone has a story and my goal is to make every woman who comes to me feel heard, validated, safe, and respected.
As a woman living with a life long birth defect, Spina Bifida, I have personal experience and a unique perspective on how disability can impact anxiety issues. I work with women to let them know they are not alone in their stress and anxiety, regardless of their circumstances. I also understand how debilitating grief can be and helping others in an area where there seems to be too little support and attention, the loss of our animal companion/family members, has become a passion of mine. I believe that everyone has a story and my goal is to make every woman who comes to me feel heard, validated, safe, and respected.
(636) 202-0837 View (636) 202-0837
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Boerner, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, MO
Megan Elizabeth Boerner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I have always said that I wanted to be a safe space for those who have experienced high levels of trauma and never felt as if they had somebody truly in their corner. Whether it be a child who is struggling to make it through the day to day because they feel different because of their life experiences, or an adult who is finally ready to feel the freedom that comes from healing, I desire to be a safe space for that individual. Trauma stole your balance, and you should absolutely be willing to fight for it to return.
I have always said that I wanted to be a safe space for those who have experienced high levels of trauma and never felt as if they had somebody truly in their corner. Whether it be a child who is struggling to make it through the day to day because they feel different because of their life experiences, or an adult who is finally ready to feel the freedom that comes from healing, I desire to be a safe space for that individual. Trauma stole your balance, and you should absolutely be willing to fight for it to return.
(636) 791-4639 View (636) 791-4639
Photo of Lawonda Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Lawonda Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63301  (Online Only)
Hi, you have made the first step in finding peace! Are you looking to transition to your best self? Do you feel like your anxiety, depression or trauma (Little T or Big T) has made it hard for you to see the beauty in life? Do you struggle with low self-worth, questionable self-esteem? Do you continue to embrace relationships and choices that are not healthy and supporting of the life you really want? Do you struggle with setting boundaries and putting your life values first? I can help you release those old habits and learn how to uncover the peace that you deserve and crave in your life.
Hi, you have made the first step in finding peace! Are you looking to transition to your best self? Do you feel like your anxiety, depression or trauma (Little T or Big T) has made it hard for you to see the beauty in life? Do you struggle with low self-worth, questionable self-esteem? Do you continue to embrace relationships and choices that are not healthy and supporting of the life you really want? Do you struggle with setting boundaries and putting your life values first? I can help you release those old habits and learn how to uncover the peace that you deserve and crave in your life.
(636) 538-5168 View (636) 538-5168
Photo of Mandy Hicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Mandy Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63301
Does life just suck right now? If just one of your problems went away what would that feel like? Would it feel like you could breathe again, maybe all of your anxiety or sadness is gone, or perhaps you are FINALLY getting the help you need from your loved ones. Trying to figure all of this out by yourself can be overwhelming, throw a life event in there such as relationship issues, divorce, or a change in employment, and you can lose your sense of self. I won't let that happen.
Does life just suck right now? If just one of your problems went away what would that feel like? Would it feel like you could breathe again, maybe all of your anxiety or sadness is gone, or perhaps you are FINALLY getting the help you need from your loved ones. Trying to figure all of this out by yourself can be overwhelming, throw a life event in there such as relationship issues, divorce, or a change in employment, and you can lose your sense of self. I won't let that happen.
(314) 328-8278 View (314) 328-8278
Photo of Eileen Henry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Eileen Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
We all seek to belong and to be accepted for who we are. When our experiences or relationships lead us to feel negative about ourselves or develop anxiety, we can lose hope. We can develop unhealthy coping strategies or ways of interacting with others that can be harmful to ourselves physically or emotionally. These can lead us to feeling out of control and present with conflicts in our relationships closest to us. I believe we can work together to find hope and create solutions. Let's work together to transform how you feel instead of living a life just coping with how you feel.
We all seek to belong and to be accepted for who we are. When our experiences or relationships lead us to feel negative about ourselves or develop anxiety, we can lose hope. We can develop unhealthy coping strategies or ways of interacting with others that can be harmful to ourselves physically or emotionally. These can lead us to feeling out of control and present with conflicts in our relationships closest to us. I believe we can work together to find hope and create solutions. Let's work together to transform how you feel instead of living a life just coping with how you feel.
(636) 306-5390 View (636) 306-5390
Photo of Michelle Maguire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, MO
Michelle Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63301
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
(636) 242-6123 View (636) 242-6123
Photo of Kristen Ernst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Kristen Ernst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63301
Taking the steps to find a therapist is a courageous leap in your journey. I take pride in helping clients process difficult emotions and create a secure sense of self. Your issue, need, or goal will be unique, but I strive to provide a safe space to assist you in this difficult process.
Taking the steps to find a therapist is a courageous leap in your journey. I take pride in helping clients process difficult emotions and create a secure sense of self. Your issue, need, or goal will be unique, but I strive to provide a safe space to assist you in this difficult process.
(636) 324-8651 View (636) 324-8651
Photo of Lia A Roth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, MO
Lia A Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyaD, LCSW, CRAADC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Hello, my name is Dr. Lia A. Roth. I was born in Argentina, and later moved to St. Louis, MO. I have experience working in multicultural environments. I have helped individuals and families overcome judgmental attitudes that can result in concerns about not being fit to fit in. Individuals that often feel isolated, confused, or ashamed. In addition to my psychotherapy practice, many times I have provided professional support during legal procedures regarding immigration, family, and injury.
Hello, my name is Dr. Lia A. Roth. I was born in Argentina, and later moved to St. Louis, MO. I have experience working in multicultural environments. I have helped individuals and families overcome judgmental attitudes that can result in concerns about not being fit to fit in. Individuals that often feel isolated, confused, or ashamed. In addition to my psychotherapy practice, many times I have provided professional support during legal procedures regarding immigration, family, and injury.
(636) 202-0850 View (636) 202-0850
St. Charles Comprehensive Counseling Svcs, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I have had a successful 20 years working within the medical and mental health field. I focus on Solution Based Therapy customized to meet your needs! I use my genuine personality, ingenuity and warm sense of humor to build trusting, caring relationships with clients. My style is practical yet warm, emotionally-focused and engaging.
I have had a successful 20 years working within the medical and mental health field. I focus on Solution Based Therapy customized to meet your needs! I use my genuine personality, ingenuity and warm sense of humor to build trusting, caring relationships with clients. My style is practical yet warm, emotionally-focused and engaging.
(636) 395-6012 View (636) 395-6012
Photo of Perry Dodge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Perry Dodge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Are you experiencing stress in your life? Do you want to improve your marriage or family relationships? Are you going through a major life transition? Individuals, couples and families that work with me often experience greater peace, energy, and joy in life and more harmony in their key relationships. My specialties include strengthening marriages, overcoming stress, men's challenges and Christian Counseling. My work has been featured on NBC KSDK NewsChannel 5's Today in St. Louis, Bott Radio Network and St. Louis Woman Magazine, and I am the author of the book The Married Man's Field Manual: 30 Rules of Engagement.
Are you experiencing stress in your life? Do you want to improve your marriage or family relationships? Are you going through a major life transition? Individuals, couples and families that work with me often experience greater peace, energy, and joy in life and more harmony in their key relationships. My specialties include strengthening marriages, overcoming stress, men's challenges and Christian Counseling. My work has been featured on NBC KSDK NewsChannel 5's Today in St. Louis, Bott Radio Network and St. Louis Woman Magazine, and I am the author of the book The Married Man's Field Manual: 30 Rules of Engagement.
(314) 596-2982 View (314) 596-2982
Photo of Kayla Burton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Kayla Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Are you feeling overwhelmed, over worked or unable to focus? Struggling with healthy boundaries, self-esteem and making changes? Are you looking for someone to help guide you through this process of making wanted changes mentally and physically? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and it would be my privilege to help assist you in the process.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, over worked or unable to focus? Struggling with healthy boundaries, self-esteem and making changes? Are you looking for someone to help guide you through this process of making wanted changes mentally and physically? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and it would be my privilege to help assist you in the process.
(636) 238-2728 View (636) 238-2728
Photo of Lynda Bankston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Lynda Bankston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Individual/ Couples/ Family/ Adolescent Therapeutic Sessions Available! Are you Angry and don't know why? Are you dealing with Depression and Anxiety? Are you Dealing with Addiction? Do you have marriage or relationship problems and just don't know what to do? Are you stressed out and don't know how to sort things out? Call today and let's figure things out. Don't wait for things to get better on there own. Call now so we can start you in a new direction. Make Your Mental Health a PRIORITY **Offering Evening and Weekend Appointments**
Individual/ Couples/ Family/ Adolescent Therapeutic Sessions Available! Are you Angry and don't know why? Are you dealing with Depression and Anxiety? Are you Dealing with Addiction? Do you have marriage or relationship problems and just don't know what to do? Are you stressed out and don't know how to sort things out? Call today and let's figure things out. Don't wait for things to get better on there own. Call now so we can start you in a new direction. Make Your Mental Health a PRIORITY **Offering Evening and Weekend Appointments**
(636) 685-2097 View (636) 685-2097
Photo of Sherine Chambers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, MO
Sherine Chambers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303  (Online Only)
I'm so glad you took this first step. Are your nerves rattled? Do you struggle to handle what the world is throwing at you? I want my clients to feel less stressed or overwhelmed, and less "stuck." I am proactive in helping identify issues and work towards solutions to feeling more in control. I understand that at times you may feel sad, anxious, irritable or withdrawn. Maybe you are dealing with something in the past that you haven't spoken to anyone about. I want my clients to feel safe enough to share their thoughts, raw feelings and experiences without judgment or pressure to think or feel something different.
I'm so glad you took this first step. Are your nerves rattled? Do you struggle to handle what the world is throwing at you? I want my clients to feel less stressed or overwhelmed, and less "stuck." I am proactive in helping identify issues and work towards solutions to feeling more in control. I understand that at times you may feel sad, anxious, irritable or withdrawn. Maybe you are dealing with something in the past that you haven't spoken to anyone about. I want my clients to feel safe enough to share their thoughts, raw feelings and experiences without judgment or pressure to think or feel something different.
(314) 886-5798 View (314) 886-5798
Diane M Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Change is possible and hope always exists. I create a therapeutic environment of acceptance with no judgement so that change and growth can occur. My ideal client will realize that something in their life is not working and they want to figure it out and make things better. They want to experience happiness, purpose and peace in their life. Taking that first step toward counseling is challenging but benefits will include increased self-esteem, better relationships, a clearer understanding of self, increased productivity and a greater ability to deal with stress.
Change is possible and hope always exists. I create a therapeutic environment of acceptance with no judgement so that change and growth can occur. My ideal client will realize that something in their life is not working and they want to figure it out and make things better. They want to experience happiness, purpose and peace in their life. Taking that first step toward counseling is challenging but benefits will include increased self-esteem, better relationships, a clearer understanding of self, increased productivity and a greater ability to deal with stress.
(636) 487-4831 View (636) 487-4831
Photo of Amanda Maisel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Amanda Maisel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
My primary focus as a counselor is helping clients reach their highest potential. Sometimes clients come to me when they are lost and feeling unsure what their next steps need to be. Other times clients are aware what they want their path to be, they just need encouragement and accountability to get themselves there. No matter the reason a client is coming to counseling, I work towards being one of their biggest cheerleaders.
My primary focus as a counselor is helping clients reach their highest potential. Sometimes clients come to me when they are lost and feeling unsure what their next steps need to be. Other times clients are aware what they want their path to be, they just need encouragement and accountability to get themselves there. No matter the reason a client is coming to counseling, I work towards being one of their biggest cheerleaders.
(636) 434-2025 View (636) 434-2025
Photo of Mareayna Caine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Mareayna Caine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63304
Online booking available! Working with clients means helping to develop an understanding of the thoughts that are plaguing your mind, the emotions that create the sense of overwhelm, and conquering your personal goals to live the life desired. There are always parts of ourselves that may need just a little more attention, awareness, and healing. Invest in you. Life may always toss challenges at us, it is up to us to not just survive but try our best to live. Lets start with consistent support for your mental wellness. Colorado, Nevada, & Iowa clients have access to telehealth services only. Schedule your virtual consultation today!
Online booking available! Working with clients means helping to develop an understanding of the thoughts that are plaguing your mind, the emotions that create the sense of overwhelm, and conquering your personal goals to live the life desired. There are always parts of ourselves that may need just a little more attention, awareness, and healing. Invest in you. Life may always toss challenges at us, it is up to us to not just survive but try our best to live. Lets start with consistent support for your mental wellness. Colorado, Nevada, & Iowa clients have access to telehealth services only. Schedule your virtual consultation today!
(636) 389-4034 View (636) 389-4034
Photo of Nishelle Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Nishelle Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63301
Everyone deserves to have a place where they can just let it all out and not care one bit what the person across from them thinks. Clients often come to me with insecurities, low self-esteem, battling with depression, simply feeling beat up by life. I work to provide individuals, families and couples with a safe, confidential and empathetic environment where they can feel comfortable telling their truth. I am passionate about helping individuals identify the barriers preventing them from finding their life’s purpose and achieving goals they set for themselves. The therapeutic process is very difficult, as it presents many unknowns.
Everyone deserves to have a place where they can just let it all out and not care one bit what the person across from them thinks. Clients often come to me with insecurities, low self-esteem, battling with depression, simply feeling beat up by life. I work to provide individuals, families and couples with a safe, confidential and empathetic environment where they can feel comfortable telling their truth. I am passionate about helping individuals identify the barriers preventing them from finding their life’s purpose and achieving goals they set for themselves. The therapeutic process is very difficult, as it presents many unknowns.
(636) 238-2714 View (636) 238-2714
Photo of Kelly Elizabeth Bristol - Child Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, MO
Kelly Elizabeth Bristol - Child Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Therapy is for everyone. Being a kid is a hard job and being a parent isn't easy either. It can be lonely, isolating and overwhelming when you or your child is struggling. We aren't meant to struggle alone. My passion is helping kids, adolescents, and their families learn how to navigate big feelings, stress and overwhelm. I have dedicated my career to supporting children and parents in their journey toward social and emotional well-being. Do you need help understanding the IEP, 504, or gifted process at school? During my 15 years as a school counselor I helped many families walk through these steps.
Therapy is for everyone. Being a kid is a hard job and being a parent isn't easy either. It can be lonely, isolating and overwhelming when you or your child is struggling. We aren't meant to struggle alone. My passion is helping kids, adolescents, and their families learn how to navigate big feelings, stress and overwhelm. I have dedicated my career to supporting children and parents in their journey toward social and emotional well-being. Do you need help understanding the IEP, 504, or gifted process at school? During my 15 years as a school counselor I helped many families walk through these steps.
(636) 429-4299 View (636) 429-4299

See more therapy options for Saint Charles

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Charles, MO

200+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Saint Charles, MO who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
83% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
63% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
76% Aetna
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Saint Charles, MO see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Charles?

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.