Therapists in Minneapolis, MN
Kristen Hayashi
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Therapy provides a safe space for exploring challenges, developing strengths, gaining coping skills and growing to a better understanding of ourselves. We can share and process our experiences, emotions, beliefs and thoughts without fear of judgment. Therapy is a team relationship, we work together. My goal is to be your teammate, cheerleader, sounding board, empathetic confidant, and guide. As the therapist, I am there with some humor, support, curiosity, compassion, and understanding. I want to empower you so you can regain confidence in your resilience. Be yourself, you matter! You are worthy to get your needs met.
Therapy provides a safe space for exploring challenges, developing strengths, gaining coping skills and growing to a better understanding of ourselves. We can share and process our experiences, emotions, beliefs and thoughts without fear of judgment. Therapy is a team relationship, we work together. My goal is to be your teammate, cheerleader, sounding board, empathetic confidant, and guide. As the therapist, I am there with some humor, support, curiosity, compassion, and understanding. I want to empower you so you can regain confidence in your resilience. Be yourself, you matter! You are worthy to get your needs met.
Kelly Pertzsch
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55413
Not accepting new clients
Please note: I currently have a 6-8 month wait for new clients. The world may be telling you that you are not enough, that you need to change in order to fit in. Sometimes that pressure to fit neatly into a particular box is more than you feel you can overcome on your own. That is where therapy can help. My practice is greatly informed by Anna Quindlen's quote: "The thing that is really hard and really amazing is giving up on being perfect and beginning the work of becoming yourself". You do not need to change to meet the world's expectations, you are already perfect as you are and I want to help you believe that.
Please note: I currently have a 6-8 month wait for new clients. The world may be telling you that you are not enough, that you need to change in order to fit in. Sometimes that pressure to fit neatly into a particular box is more than you feel you can overcome on your own. That is where therapy can help. My practice is greatly informed by Anna Quindlen's quote: "The thing that is really hard and really amazing is giving up on being perfect and beginning the work of becoming yourself". You do not need to change to meet the world's expectations, you are already perfect as you are and I want to help you believe that.
Huda Omar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415 (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a licensed graduate social worker who specializes in clinical mental health and practices psychotherapy. I hold a bachelor's degree in psychology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Minnesota. As an anti-oppressive practitioner, my work with clients is based on transparency, non-judgment, support, inclusivity, partnership, and empowerment. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe and comforting environment that allows individuals to showcase as much vulnerability and self-expression necessary to attain their healing goals.
Hi there! I am a licensed graduate social worker who specializes in clinical mental health and practices psychotherapy. I hold a bachelor's degree in psychology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Minnesota. As an anti-oppressive practitioner, my work with clients is based on transparency, non-judgment, support, inclusivity, partnership, and empowerment. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe and comforting environment that allows individuals to showcase as much vulnerability and self-expression necessary to attain their healing goals.
Sherry Merriam
Counselor, MA, LPCC, TCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
MindBalance Mental Health Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419
We aim to empower individuals and create opportunities for wholeness through anti-oppressive holistic practices. Our inclusive approach extends to ALL individuals with a targeted focus on providing support and services to those who identify as part of any of the following communities: BIPOC, QTBIPOC, LGBTQIA+2S, Adoptee, and First/Second Gen Immigrants.
We aim to empower individuals and create opportunities for wholeness through anti-oppressive holistic practices. Our inclusive approach extends to ALL individuals with a targeted focus on providing support and services to those who identify as part of any of the following communities: BIPOC, QTBIPOC, LGBTQIA+2S, Adoptee, and First/Second Gen Immigrants.
Demmie Lorayne Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I am an Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who works with adults and couples. I received my Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and have a certification in marriage and family therapy. I also have a BSN in nursing which I feel has helped me see the impact of the mind and body connection.
I am an Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who works with adults and couples. I received my Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and have a certification in marriage and family therapy. I also have a BSN in nursing which I feel has helped me see the impact of the mind and body connection.
Mark Patil
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Ensuring that the individuals I work with feel truly heard and understood is my primary goal as a therapist. Grounded in cognitive behavioral and person-centered therapeutic orientations, I tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs and aim to create a safe environment that empowers growth and change.
Ensuring that the individuals I work with feel truly heard and understood is my primary goal as a therapist. Grounded in cognitive behavioral and person-centered therapeutic orientations, I tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs and aim to create a safe environment that empowers growth and change.
Linda J Etim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Hi! I'm Linda Etim and I specialize in working with women and men who are in toxic or abusive/predatory relationships. My unique approach is designed to help you detach from and avoid these toxic relationships. I also work with individuals who are suffering from anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. As well I work with those experiencing work related stress, racial injustice and everyday life stressors. All of the above issues can threaten your physical and emotional wellbeing. I prescribe techniques that will help you to manage your symptoms while at the same time achieving overall wellness.
Hi! I'm Linda Etim and I specialize in working with women and men who are in toxic or abusive/predatory relationships. My unique approach is designed to help you detach from and avoid these toxic relationships. I also work with individuals who are suffering from anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. As well I work with those experiencing work related stress, racial injustice and everyday life stressors. All of the above issues can threaten your physical and emotional wellbeing. I prescribe techniques that will help you to manage your symptoms while at the same time achieving overall wellness.
Monica Austerlitz
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406 (Online Only)
Working with a spirit of solidarity and using an insight oriented approach I help adults of all backgrounds gain insight, build confidence, and make meaningful life changes. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, abuse, relationship conflict, and relapse prevention. I strive to create an atmosphere of trust and comfort and to establish a strong therapeutic alliance. I have a keen awareness of diversity and multicultural issues, and the ability to work comfortably and respectfully with clients regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
Working with a spirit of solidarity and using an insight oriented approach I help adults of all backgrounds gain insight, build confidence, and make meaningful life changes. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, abuse, relationship conflict, and relapse prevention. I strive to create an atmosphere of trust and comfort and to establish a strong therapeutic alliance. I have a keen awareness of diversity and multicultural issues, and the ability to work comfortably and respectfully with clients regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
Autumn McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407 (Online Only)
I am a queer, fat, cis-gender woman. I'm a divorced single mom, a therapist, a social worker, a community organizer, a birth and postpartum doula, an activist, a friend, and a member of many different kinds of families. All these identities, roles, life experiences have woven together to shape the unique perspective and philosophy that guides me. I am committed to the goal of liberation, individually and collectively. I am committed to finding ways to live life as our liberated authentic selves in a world that tries to shatter our identities, question our experiences, values and dreams.
I am a queer, fat, cis-gender woman. I'm a divorced single mom, a therapist, a social worker, a community organizer, a birth and postpartum doula, an activist, a friend, and a member of many different kinds of families. All these identities, roles, life experiences have woven together to shape the unique perspective and philosophy that guides me. I am committed to the goal of liberation, individually and collectively. I am committed to finding ways to live life as our liberated authentic selves in a world that tries to shatter our identities, question our experiences, values and dreams.
Fred Kiesel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
My clinical interests are currently within the realms of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have experience in utilizing Dialectic Behavior Training (DBT) approaches and continue to study and implement DBT. I am interested in providing group therapy, couples’ therapy, and individual therapy.
My clinical interests are currently within the realms of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have experience in utilizing Dialectic Behavior Training (DBT) approaches and continue to study and implement DBT. I am interested in providing group therapy, couples’ therapy, and individual therapy.
15 Second Videos
Kristen Hayashi
Kelly Pertzsch
Kelly Fern
Dwan Milam-Reed
Ryanne T Mellick
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Phoenix Mental Health, PLC
Evita Sanchez
Peter Grant
Lisa Lovelace
Neko J Vanevenhoven
Julia Rodriguez
Eiko Mizushima
Adam Sattler
Brittney Bredemus
Tonya Le
Kristin Bunge
Kelle A Kirk
Larry Suess
Nelly Bonilla
Tom Glaser
Vaughn Maree Powell
Nicolle Dirksen
Kendra Olson-Therapist For Moms
Erin Appel
Asel Kulmeshkenova
Patrick Stephen Robinson
Luke Spiegelhoff
Lauren Sobotta
Jackie Morrison
Alexa J. Tennyson
Jackie Golob
Julie E. Schmit
Raye McPhillips Eyrich
Jason Frederick Keppe
Warren A. Taylor
Abby Van Egdom
Barbara Schnichels
Justin Schroeder
Jenny Matthews
Linnea Logas, MA, Feminist Therapist,Couples Coach
Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC
Cathy Johnston
Allison July
Ben Snyder
Ana McRae
Katie Angell
Samantha Lee Anders
Joe Molinari
Rondi Chastanet
Lance Hauge
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55409
I work from an integral perspective and understand human experience within a developmental framework that includes inner and outer experience, varying levels of ego or self organization, and personal as well as transpersonal experience. My work is informed by the idea that while suffering is a part of the human experience, so is healing, growth, transformation.
I work from an integral perspective and understand human experience within a developmental framework that includes inner and outer experience, varying levels of ego or self organization, and personal as well as transpersonal experience. My work is informed by the idea that while suffering is a part of the human experience, so is healing, growth, transformation.
Marla Rose Wojtanowicz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55413
We all have times when we run out of ideas about how to deal with problems in our lives. It can help to involve a new set of eyes and ears to see things from a different angle. We work to gain new skills and insights, and tap into our forgotten strengths, to create independence and lasting positive change. We look at the rigid and unhelpful patterns we have, and work together to form new ways of thinking and doing. While this process unfolds you are free to be your authentic self, without feeling judgment, powerlessness, or shame, in a safe and trusting atmosphere.
We all have times when we run out of ideas about how to deal with problems in our lives. It can help to involve a new set of eyes and ears to see things from a different angle. We work to gain new skills and insights, and tap into our forgotten strengths, to create independence and lasting positive change. We look at the rigid and unhelpful patterns we have, and work together to form new ways of thinking and doing. While this process unfolds you are free to be your authentic self, without feeling judgment, powerlessness, or shame, in a safe and trusting atmosphere.
Adam Chase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting new clients. I've been in the mental health field for over 25 years and still strive to keep my "beginner's mind". I have a psychodynamic orientation (which means I believe that the relationship between the therapist and you is an important part of the process). My work is informed by many things, including the Buddhist principal that suffering comes from attachment to things we often aren't aware of or simply don't know how to let go of. I've found it helpful to use various wisdom resources, poetry, and humor in therapy.
I am not currently accepting new clients. I've been in the mental health field for over 25 years and still strive to keep my "beginner's mind". I have a psychodynamic orientation (which means I believe that the relationship between the therapist and you is an important part of the process). My work is informed by many things, including the Buddhist principal that suffering comes from attachment to things we often aren't aware of or simply don't know how to let go of. I've found it helpful to use various wisdom resources, poetry, and humor in therapy.
Aziz Bisanz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Not accepting new clients
Aziz is not currently accepting new clients. Aziz believes in the importance of locating ourselves inside of both systems of oppression and ancestral lineage as the roots of healing work. Aziz is a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and uses SE in tandem with other healing modalities and justice related frameworks. Their experience includes work with individuals, partners and groups around healing lived trauma as well as generational and historical trauma and regaining personal and collective power and narrative. Aziz identifies as queer, trans and of mixed (middle eastern and euro) ancestry.
Aziz is not currently accepting new clients. Aziz believes in the importance of locating ourselves inside of both systems of oppression and ancestral lineage as the roots of healing work. Aziz is a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and uses SE in tandem with other healing modalities and justice related frameworks. Their experience includes work with individuals, partners and groups around healing lived trauma as well as generational and historical trauma and regaining personal and collective power and narrative. Aziz identifies as queer, trans and of mixed (middle eastern and euro) ancestry.
Rah Bridwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in the power of relationship and co-creating a safe environment for you to share and explore. I am particularly invested in working with trans and queer folks and those whose relationship structures and embodiments are not always validated by dominant culture. I use a contemporary psychoanalytic lens, as well as, queer and post modern theory. My work primarily focuses on assisting folks exploring their self, including their gender and sexual health. I often provide support through transition and with a range of concerns including couple relational, low desire, problematic sexual behavior, erectile dysfunction and more.
I believe in the power of relationship and co-creating a safe environment for you to share and explore. I am particularly invested in working with trans and queer folks and those whose relationship structures and embodiments are not always validated by dominant culture. I use a contemporary psychoanalytic lens, as well as, queer and post modern theory. My work primarily focuses on assisting folks exploring their self, including their gender and sexual health. I often provide support through transition and with a range of concerns including couple relational, low desire, problematic sexual behavior, erectile dysfunction and more.
Julie A. Kaufman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping others re-experience themselves. While we all experience struggles, there are times when managing them can be more difficult. Feelings of vulnerability, shame, and fear can easily become chains that hold us down. We begin to give away our power by allowing others to decide how we experience ourselves, our relationships, and our lives. We use food, emotions, behaviors, alcohol, and drugs hoping to protect ourselves. In these attempts we surrender even more power. The energy we once used to live in love, abundance, and wellness is no longer available: as a limited resource, it's now all used up.
I am dedicated to helping others re-experience themselves. While we all experience struggles, there are times when managing them can be more difficult. Feelings of vulnerability, shame, and fear can easily become chains that hold us down. We begin to give away our power by allowing others to decide how we experience ourselves, our relationships, and our lives. We use food, emotions, behaviors, alcohol, and drugs hoping to protect ourselves. In these attempts we surrender even more power. The energy we once used to live in love, abundance, and wellness is no longer available: as a limited resource, it's now all used up.
Maddie Coulter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, JD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
I have a passion for working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, and navigating the "deep, dark spaces" of life. I also focus on working with clients who have borderline personality disorder, and who feel life's ups and downs intensely. I work with adults of all ages, especially members of the LGBTQIA+ community, folks across the gender spectrum, and folks who have experienced religious trauma or spiritual abuse.
I have a passion for working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, and navigating the "deep, dark spaces" of life. I also focus on working with clients who have borderline personality disorder, and who feel life's ups and downs intensely. I work with adults of all ages, especially members of the LGBTQIA+ community, folks across the gender spectrum, and folks who have experienced religious trauma or spiritual abuse.
Janice Linden Kalin
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55416
All counseling I do is related to work and career issues. You may be thinking about a different career, trying to figure out a major in college, considering re-entering the job market after an absence, questioning what's next after graduating, or are unhappy with your current work situation. We explore characteristics such as values, interests, and motivators through counseling sessions, assessments and exercises. It's a very active process with the goal of discovering what best suits you, keeping in mind the realities of the job market and individual needs.
All counseling I do is related to work and career issues. You may be thinking about a different career, trying to figure out a major in college, considering re-entering the job market after an absence, questioning what's next after graduating, or are unhappy with your current work situation. We explore characteristics such as values, interests, and motivators through counseling sessions, assessments and exercises. It's a very active process with the goal of discovering what best suits you, keeping in mind the realities of the job market and individual needs.
Sandra Streitman
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55426
Sandra Streitman, Ph. D. is a clinical neuropsychologist with interest in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, OCD, learning disabilities, mood and anxiety disorders, and pervasive developmental (autism spectrum) disorders. She specializes in neuropsychology testing and evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. She integrates neurocognitive, emotional and behavioral aspects of these disorders in order help parents better understand and manage the behaviors. She also evaluates intellectually gifted children with accompanying learning and attention issues, and children with seizures, and traumatic brain injuries. She encourages early intervention for learning and attention disorders, the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration, and neuropsychological evaluation of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Sandra Streitman, Ph. D. is a clinical neuropsychologist with interest in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, OCD, learning disabilities, mood and anxiety disorders, and pervasive developmental (autism spectrum) disorders. She specializes in neuropsychology testing and evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. She integrates neurocognitive, emotional and behavioral aspects of these disorders in order help parents better understand and manage the behaviors. She also evaluates intellectually gifted children with accompanying learning and attention issues, and children with seizures, and traumatic brain injuries. She encourages early intervention for learning and attention disorders, the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration, and neuropsychological evaluation of neurodevelopmental disorders.
See more therapy options for Minneapolis
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Minneapolis, MN
1,000+
Average cost per session
$165
Therapists in Minneapolis, MN who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 89% | Depression |
| 79% | Relationship Issues |
| 76% | Self Esteem |
| 73% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 69% | Stress |
| 64% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 84% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 71% | UCare |
| 67% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Minneapolis, MN see their clients
| 73% | In Person and Online | |
| 27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 76% | Female | |
| 21% | Male | |
| 3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Minneapolis?
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
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.
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.
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.