Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Ginny Christian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Ginny Christian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Waitlist for new clients
Each of us navigates many issues and transitions throughout our lives. Whether these are issues of abuse, trauma, identity, relationships, or physical and mental wellness, knowing that you are not alone in this process can lead to profound courage, hope, and change. I have a deep belief in our potential for growth and healing. As a therapist, I offer a safe place for this work. I will be a compassionate and insightful witness that will be fully present to your journey. Together, we will tend to your inner knowing, emerging awareness, and the making of new meaning.
Each of us navigates many issues and transitions throughout our lives. Whether these are issues of abuse, trauma, identity, relationships, or physical and mental wellness, knowing that you are not alone in this process can lead to profound courage, hope, and change. I have a deep belief in our potential for growth and healing. As a therapist, I offer a safe place for this work. I will be a compassionate and insightful witness that will be fully present to your journey. Together, we will tend to your inner knowing, emerging awareness, and the making of new meaning.
(971) 265-8712 View (971) 265-8712
Photo of Heather Pierce, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Heather Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked in the field for 10+ years with all ages. My specialities are working with eating disorders/disordered eating, body image challenges and perinatal mental health.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked in the field for 10+ years with all ages. My specialities are working with eating disorders/disordered eating, body image challenges and perinatal mental health.
(541) 833-9060 View (541) 833-9060
Photo of David A Sangster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
David A Sangster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203
From struggling to THRIVING. Become more fully "yourself." Enjoy relationship satisfaction. Strengthen connection to something bigger that is meaningful. Get relief from depression and anxiety (really!). Improve effectiveness at work. Feel more at home in your body, content. Mindful and present. LAUGH. Choosing a therapist that is both really good AND a great fit is important. There is a difference here you will experience from the get go. The office is in a 1930's Cape Cod style house...inviting & comfortable. With warmth and character. David is unusually relational and "real." Sessions are 60, 75 or 90 minutes rather than 50.
From struggling to THRIVING. Become more fully "yourself." Enjoy relationship satisfaction. Strengthen connection to something bigger that is meaningful. Get relief from depression and anxiety (really!). Improve effectiveness at work. Feel more at home in your body, content. Mindful and present. LAUGH. Choosing a therapist that is both really good AND a great fit is important. There is a difference here you will experience from the get go. The office is in a 1930's Cape Cod style house...inviting & comfortable. With warmth and character. David is unusually relational and "real." Sessions are 60, 75 or 90 minutes rather than 50.
(503) 444-8649 View (503) 444-8649
Photo of Angela Keeney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Angela Keeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can also help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can also help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
(503) 406-6598 View (503) 406-6598
Photo of Julie Kahler, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Julie Kahler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204
I am a licensed psychologist providing video telehealth & in-person counseling to adults in Oregon who are struggling in their lives and relationships. Together, we explore the habits and beliefs that keep them from realizing their potential. In my practice, clients discover clarity about their values and boundaries, and are empowered to make change in their lives. My approach is to build a relationship of support and trust with you that offers the safety to explore problems with flexibility and curiosity. My clinical and research experience has given me expertise in human behaviors and emotions, but you are the expert of yourself.
I am a licensed psychologist providing video telehealth & in-person counseling to adults in Oregon who are struggling in their lives and relationships. Together, we explore the habits and beliefs that keep them from realizing their potential. In my practice, clients discover clarity about their values and boundaries, and are empowered to make change in their lives. My approach is to build a relationship of support and trust with you that offers the safety to explore problems with flexibility and curiosity. My clinical and research experience has given me expertise in human behaviors and emotions, but you are the expert of yourself.
(503) 298-5208 View (503) 298-5208
Photo of Audra T. Lee Integrative Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Audra T. Lee Integrative Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I can help you sort through what might feel like a big overwhelming pile of mess - whether from unwanted emotions, too much stress, unresolved interpersonal traumas, or a nagging sense of dissatisfaction with life and just feeling stuck. These issues may manifest in a variety of ways such as anxiety, depression, burnout, self-criticism, emotional intensity, and/or relationship issues. Together we'll listen to what your pain is trying to tell you about yourself, what's really important to you, and what is and is not working in your life. This is such an important precursor to lasting change.
I can help you sort through what might feel like a big overwhelming pile of mess - whether from unwanted emotions, too much stress, unresolved interpersonal traumas, or a nagging sense of dissatisfaction with life and just feeling stuck. These issues may manifest in a variety of ways such as anxiety, depression, burnout, self-criticism, emotional intensity, and/or relationship issues. Together we'll listen to what your pain is trying to tell you about yourself, what's really important to you, and what is and is not working in your life. This is such an important precursor to lasting change.
(503) 966-9744 View (503) 966-9744
Photo of Rhyver Rudick, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Rhyver Rudick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
(701) 809-9033 View (701) 809-9033
Photo of Margaret Purkey Keicher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Margaret Purkey Keicher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice focus includes pregnant, postpartum, and parenting people, interpersonal challenges including attachment concerns, trauma (ancestral, intergenerational, and individual trauma experiences), anxiety, and ADHD. Interpersonal connection, humor, transparency, and insight are the key values I use during therapy to promote functional improvement for my clients. Those who work with me can expect to quickly understand the root cause of their issues. Together we will develop an individualized plan for therapy that provides long term relief from symptoms.
My practice focus includes pregnant, postpartum, and parenting people, interpersonal challenges including attachment concerns, trauma (ancestral, intergenerational, and individual trauma experiences), anxiety, and ADHD. Interpersonal connection, humor, transparency, and insight are the key values I use during therapy to promote functional improvement for my clients. Those who work with me can expect to quickly understand the root cause of their issues. Together we will develop an individualized plan for therapy that provides long term relief from symptoms.
(503) 496-7828 View (503) 496-7828
Photo of Amy B. Berman, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Amy B. Berman
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
Not accepting new clients
Unchosen suffering can be profoundly agonizing. What happens to us in life, can leave us feeling depleted, overwhelmed and lost. I offer mind-body focused and trauma informed evidence-based psychotherapy to help enhance your own inherent, natural capacity to heal and restore. I am deeply committed to providing safe healing spaces for those facing profound and devastating grief and trauma. Stress from many different sources can take a toll on our well-being and our sense of connection in our lives. Our work together can help you restore and gain an increased capacity to be nonjudgmentally present and in tune your most authentic self.
Unchosen suffering can be profoundly agonizing. What happens to us in life, can leave us feeling depleted, overwhelmed and lost. I offer mind-body focused and trauma informed evidence-based psychotherapy to help enhance your own inherent, natural capacity to heal and restore. I am deeply committed to providing safe healing spaces for those facing profound and devastating grief and trauma. Stress from many different sources can take a toll on our well-being and our sense of connection in our lives. Our work together can help you restore and gain an increased capacity to be nonjudgmentally present and in tune your most authentic self.
(503) 822-7871 View (503) 822-7871
Photo of Maren Corbly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Maren Corbly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I love supporting teens, young adults, and adults as they work to accept themselves, trust their own intuition, and get "unstuck" from past experiences and big losses.
I love supporting teens, young adults, and adults as they work to accept themselves, trust their own intuition, and get "unstuck" from past experiences and big losses.
(503) 743-7268 View (503) 743-7268
Photo of Theresa Halter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Theresa Halter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that everyone has the ability to live a balanced and fulfilling life. Change is inevitable and natural. During challenging times, we seek the path back to our inner wisdom. As a school counselor and teacher for twenty five years, I learned a great deal about how unique our learning and personality styles are. I enjoy helping adults embrace who they are to gain clarity, improve relationships, cope with stress, and regain a sense of well-being.
I believe that everyone has the ability to live a balanced and fulfilling life. Change is inevitable and natural. During challenging times, we seek the path back to our inner wisdom. As a school counselor and teacher for twenty five years, I learned a great deal about how unique our learning and personality styles are. I enjoy helping adults embrace who they are to gain clarity, improve relationships, cope with stress, and regain a sense of well-being.
(458) 236-5887 View (458) 236-5887
Photo of Kip Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Kip Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Are you on a path seeking emotional resilience, self-discovery, authentic connection, and continued growth? I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy that honors the body, mind, spirit, and natural world. Drawing on my activist roots and more than a decade of clinical experience, I bring a deep sensitivity to issues of complex trauma, grief and loss, social justice, spiritual emergence, and LGBTQ+ mental health.
Are you on a path seeking emotional resilience, self-discovery, authentic connection, and continued growth? I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy that honors the body, mind, spirit, and natural world. Drawing on my activist roots and more than a decade of clinical experience, I bring a deep sensitivity to issues of complex trauma, grief and loss, social justice, spiritual emergence, and LGBTQ+ mental health.
(503) 455-5770 View (503) 455-5770
Photo of Annette R Rankin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Annette R Rankin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97236
I've had many years of experience providing therapy for individuals recovering from trauma,individuals who had developed habits of self-sabotage in relationships or at work for various reasons. Other areas of focus include depression associated with chronic pain, depression, anxiety and grief associated with custody and divorce struggles, couples who want to improve the way in which they communicate and partner, and issues surrounding phase of life transitions.
I've had many years of experience providing therapy for individuals recovering from trauma,individuals who had developed habits of self-sabotage in relationships or at work for various reasons. Other areas of focus include depression associated with chronic pain, depression, anxiety and grief associated with custody and divorce struggles, couples who want to improve the way in which they communicate and partner, and issues surrounding phase of life transitions.
(415) 298-2479 View (415) 298-2479
Photo of Ayala Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Ayala Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97242  (Online Only)
Coming to therapy is a brave choice that takes vulnerability, courage, and energy. You may be experiencing pain, anxiety, anger, dissatisfaction, or numbness, and looking to experience your life differently. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship, and bring a warm, steady, and grounded presence into the therapy space. I empower, and encourage my clients toward exploring their emotions, body experiences, thoughts, memories and desires. I support clients in navigating their internal and relational worlds toward fullness, freedom and agency. I am a holder of hope and offer my clients deep compassion along with direct guidance.
Coming to therapy is a brave choice that takes vulnerability, courage, and energy. You may be experiencing pain, anxiety, anger, dissatisfaction, or numbness, and looking to experience your life differently. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship, and bring a warm, steady, and grounded presence into the therapy space. I empower, and encourage my clients toward exploring their emotions, body experiences, thoughts, memories and desires. I support clients in navigating their internal and relational worlds toward fullness, freedom and agency. I am a holder of hope and offer my clients deep compassion along with direct guidance.
(971) 251-1591 View (971) 251-1591
Photo of Allison Medford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Allison Medford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, and seeking support is a brave and important step toward finding balance and well-being. My practice is dedicated to providing a safe, confidential, and compassionate space with an anti-oppressive, culturally humble perspective where you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. By integrating evidence-based practices with empathy and compassion, I will tailor our sessions to your unique needs, helping you gain insights, develop coping strategies, and create positive change in your life.
I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, and seeking support is a brave and important step toward finding balance and well-being. My practice is dedicated to providing a safe, confidential, and compassionate space with an anti-oppressive, culturally humble perspective where you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. By integrating evidence-based practices with empathy and compassion, I will tailor our sessions to your unique needs, helping you gain insights, develop coping strategies, and create positive change in your life.
(503) 451-6184 View (503) 451-6184
Photo of Will Helfrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Will Helfrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Welcome and congratulations on taking the step of seeking out therapy; I find that contacting someone is the most difficult part. As you look for a therapist, I encourage you to first consider characteristics of the individual you believe you’ll connect with most and consider their education, licensure, and clinical approach second.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the step of seeking out therapy; I find that contacting someone is the most difficult part. As you look for a therapist, I encourage you to first consider characteristics of the individual you believe you’ll connect with most and consider their education, licensure, and clinical approach second.
(971) 315-4730 View (971) 315-4730
Photo of Eden Rivers Coaching in Portland, OR
Eden Rivers Coaching
PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Compassionate and evidence-based health and wellness coach. Empowering people to proactively manage their physical and mental well-being through transformative habit and lifestyle changes. With a Ph.D. in Health Psychology, I have 20+ years' of experience guiding people with behavior change with an emphasis on nutrition. I am extremely passionate about health and wellness, and emotional balance. I work with people who have health conditions such as diabetes, digestive disorders, migraines, chronic fatigue, etc. I also specialize in people who are committed to healthy aging but need support establishing healthy habits and routines.
Compassionate and evidence-based health and wellness coach. Empowering people to proactively manage their physical and mental well-being through transformative habit and lifestyle changes. With a Ph.D. in Health Psychology, I have 20+ years' of experience guiding people with behavior change with an emphasis on nutrition. I am extremely passionate about health and wellness, and emotional balance. I work with people who have health conditions such as diabetes, digestive disorders, migraines, chronic fatigue, etc. I also specialize in people who are committed to healthy aging but need support establishing healthy habits and routines.
(503) 730-5220 View (503) 730-5220
Photo of Resonance LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Resonance LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Providers at Resonance can treat a variety of issues and clients, including adults who experienced abuse as children, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and Post Traumatic Growth, racial trauma, multiracial identity development, grief and loss, intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, and families impacted by severe and persistent mental health issues. All providers prioritize working with multiracial and monoracial people of color who are culturally dislocated. Our approach also focuses on the intersection of race with other identities, such as gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and geographic location.
Providers at Resonance can treat a variety of issues and clients, including adults who experienced abuse as children, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and Post Traumatic Growth, racial trauma, multiracial identity development, grief and loss, intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, and families impacted by severe and persistent mental health issues. All providers prioritize working with multiracial and monoracial people of color who are culturally dislocated. Our approach also focuses on the intersection of race with other identities, such as gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and geographic location.
(971) 314-4532 View (971) 314-4532
Photo of Garon Nemyre, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Garon Nemyre
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with the full spectrum of development, from personal and relational issues to transpersonal and spiritual growth issues. As relational beings, the power to heal and grow is unlocked through the therapeutic relationship, so this is at the center of the work. Using the relationship and our present moment awareness, we can explore self-limitations, alienation in relationships, lack of fulfillment, and the understandable anxiety and depression that arises from those challenges.
I enjoy working with the full spectrum of development, from personal and relational issues to transpersonal and spiritual growth issues. As relational beings, the power to heal and grow is unlocked through the therapeutic relationship, so this is at the center of the work. Using the relationship and our present moment awareness, we can explore self-limitations, alienation in relationships, lack of fulfillment, and the understandable anxiety and depression that arises from those challenges.
(503) 558-2698 View (503) 558-2698
Photo of Lanette Ambers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lanette Ambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
I believe there comes a time in most people's lives when it's helpful to have a supportive person to guide them through challenges they may be experiencing. It takes strength and courage to decide to begin therapy. If this is something you are considering for your child then you should be commended! As a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, I engaged in Synergetic Play Therapy (TM), "a research-informed model of play therapy blending the therapeutic power of play with nervous system regulation, interpersonal neurobiology, physics, attachment, mindfulness, and therapist authenticity." - Lisa Dion, creator of Synergetic Play Therapy
I believe there comes a time in most people's lives when it's helpful to have a supportive person to guide them through challenges they may be experiencing. It takes strength and courage to decide to begin therapy. If this is something you are considering for your child then you should be commended! As a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, I engaged in Synergetic Play Therapy (TM), "a research-informed model of play therapy blending the therapeutic power of play with nervous system regulation, interpersonal neurobiology, physics, attachment, mindfulness, and therapist authenticity." - Lisa Dion, creator of Synergetic Play Therapy
(503) 567-6230 View (503) 567-6230

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.