Therapists in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Kristen Hounsom, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Kristen Hounsom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022
Kristen is a therapist for mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Kristen is a therapist for mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(623) 288-4285 View (623) 288-4285
Photo of Nancy R Hay, Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Nancy R Hay
Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
I have been helping individuals and couples for over thirty years make positive changes in their lives. Counseling is about changing what is not working in your life, feeling better, and creating new levels of satisfaction, happiness, and peace. If you are experiencing stress or unhappiness and know it's time to do something about it, let my experience and practical approach help you grow in a positive direction. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and develop a plan to uniquely fit your needs, personality, and goals. My goal is to help you as quickly as possible improve your life.
I have been helping individuals and couples for over thirty years make positive changes in their lives. Counseling is about changing what is not working in your life, feeling better, and creating new levels of satisfaction, happiness, and peace. If you are experiencing stress or unhappiness and know it's time to do something about it, let my experience and practical approach help you grow in a positive direction. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and develop a plan to uniquely fit your needs, personality, and goals. My goal is to help you as quickly as possible improve your life.
(480) 568-4007 View (480) 568-4007
Photo of James Edwards, Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
James Edwards
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051
Human language is so powerful that one word can change a life, or destroy the lives of millions" This is a quote from the "Four Agreements". Language can be used to create a collaborative and engaging therapeutic experience that facilitates the development of lasting personal change. I will support you through thoughtful reflection, mindful consultation and experiential life change strategies, to identify and alleviate unresolved trauma, creating a more compassionate and empowered, lived experience.
Human language is so powerful that one word can change a life, or destroy the lives of millions" This is a quote from the "Four Agreements". Language can be used to create a collaborative and engaging therapeutic experience that facilitates the development of lasting personal change. I will support you through thoughtful reflection, mindful consultation and experiential life change strategies, to identify and alleviate unresolved trauma, creating a more compassionate and empowered, lived experience.
(623) 323-9423 View (623) 323-9423
Photo of Alana C Brunacini, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Alana C Brunacini
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - ON MATERNITY LEAVE UNTIL 2022. I specialize in working with fire fighters, EMS workers, public safety and other health professionals focusing on issues from PTSD and compassion fatigue to relationship conflict and retirement. This unique population can benefit from working collaboratively with a professional who is culturally competent and understands the ins and outs of emergency service work. If you're not a first responder, that's OK too! Trauma, stress and burnout affect all of us at some time. For all the night shift workers or parents putting littles to bed, I offer appointments through 9:00pm!
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - ON MATERNITY LEAVE UNTIL 2022. I specialize in working with fire fighters, EMS workers, public safety and other health professionals focusing on issues from PTSD and compassion fatigue to relationship conflict and retirement. This unique population can benefit from working collaboratively with a professional who is culturally competent and understands the ins and outs of emergency service work. If you're not a first responder, that's OK too! Trauma, stress and burnout affect all of us at some time. For all the night shift workers or parents putting littles to bed, I offer appointments through 9:00pm!
(602) 600-0946 View (602) 600-0946
Photo of Heather Brady, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Heather Brady
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85021  (Online Only)
After receiving her master’s degree with distinction in clinical mental health counseling, Heather’s journey as an individual and group therapist began in residential treatment, where she specialized in acceptance and commitment therapy, as well as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, with diverse youth and their families.
After receiving her master’s degree with distinction in clinical mental health counseling, Heather’s journey as an individual and group therapist began in residential treatment, where she specialized in acceptance and commitment therapy, as well as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, with diverse youth and their families.
(602) 975-4897 View (602) 975-4897
Photo of Marian C Eberly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Marian C Eberly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
Marian C.Eberly LCSW,RN: Dually licensed, Providing a unique blend of compassionate, highly experienced, mental and behavioral health care with 30 years of inpt/outpt treatment center Leadership.Competencies include: treating children, adolescents, families, marriage, adults: integrating the psychological, medical & spiritual needs of a person; with the unique knowledge of understanding the pharmacology, nutrition and medical conditions co-occurring with mental disorders. Exper inDiagnosing mental disorders such as Autism L-1/ (Formerly known as Asbergers) Anxiety/Depressive Disorders & Marriage Counseling and Adolescent Therapy.
Marian C.Eberly LCSW,RN: Dually licensed, Providing a unique blend of compassionate, highly experienced, mental and behavioral health care with 30 years of inpt/outpt treatment center Leadership.Competencies include: treating children, adolescents, families, marriage, adults: integrating the psychological, medical & spiritual needs of a person; with the unique knowledge of understanding the pharmacology, nutrition and medical conditions co-occurring with mental disorders. Exper inDiagnosing mental disorders such as Autism L-1/ (Formerly known as Asbergers) Anxiety/Depressive Disorders & Marriage Counseling and Adolescent Therapy.
(623) 321-2080 View (623) 321-2080
Photo of Jacob Rundall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Jacob Rundall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051
Pathway to Peace Psychotherapy, PLLC has DAYS, EVENING and WEEKEND appointments available both in office and telehealth! My experience includes working with veterans, first responders, adults and teens to work through trauma, depression, anxiety, help develop coping skills, resiliency, and balance in their lives. I use evidence-based CBT, DBT, IFS and and other techniques which accelerate the brain's response to learning how to change negative beliefs to positive beliefs.
Pathway to Peace Psychotherapy, PLLC has DAYS, EVENING and WEEKEND appointments available both in office and telehealth! My experience includes working with veterans, first responders, adults and teens to work through trauma, depression, anxiety, help develop coping skills, resiliency, and balance in their lives. I use evidence-based CBT, DBT, IFS and and other techniques which accelerate the brain's response to learning how to change negative beliefs to positive beliefs.
(602) 598-5692 View (602) 598-5692
Photo of Know Thy Self LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Know Thy Self LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
We are living in a very challenging time. Many of us are struggling with everyday issues and concerns of life. We attempt to manage and cope with the reality of a changing world, maintaining healthy relationships with immediate family, loved ones & friends. We are focused on positioning ourselves to meet our basic needs of food, shelter, and clothing. Combing this with the reality of being diagnosed with a Mental Health Disorder, fighting the disease of substance abuse, or attempting to confront our past traumatic childhood and adult trauma, a healthy therapeutic relationship is critical at this time for individual clients.
We are living in a very challenging time. Many of us are struggling with everyday issues and concerns of life. We attempt to manage and cope with the reality of a changing world, maintaining healthy relationships with immediate family, loved ones & friends. We are focused on positioning ourselves to meet our basic needs of food, shelter, and clothing. Combing this with the reality of being diagnosed with a Mental Health Disorder, fighting the disease of substance abuse, or attempting to confront our past traumatic childhood and adult trauma, a healthy therapeutic relationship is critical at this time for individual clients.
(602) 737-1197 View (602) 737-1197
Photo of Jacqueline R Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Jacqueline R Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with issues like stress, depression, anxiety, grief, military/life balance, relationships problems, addiction, parenting or family conflict? If so, then you have come to the right place. My ideal client is a person who is tired of feeling the way they do and is open and willing to take the steps they need to affect a positive change in their life, even if change feels a little scary at times. If you are looking for a therapist who will go above and beyond to help you find the resources you need then you need not look any further.
Are you struggling with issues like stress, depression, anxiety, grief, military/life balance, relationships problems, addiction, parenting or family conflict? If so, then you have come to the right place. My ideal client is a person who is tired of feeling the way they do and is open and willing to take the steps they need to affect a positive change in their life, even if change feels a little scary at times. If you are looking for a therapist who will go above and beyond to help you find the resources you need then you need not look any further.
(623) 400-2446 View (623) 400-2446
Photo of Amanda Hicks, Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Amanda Hicks
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
Not accepting new clients
Life is a journey, and I am here to support you on that journey! My focus is on the therapeutic relationship with the client, and I believe counseling is a collaborative effort. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, self-worth, relationship and substance use issues.
Life is a journey, and I am here to support you on that journey! My focus is on the therapeutic relationship with the client, and I believe counseling is a collaborative effort. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, and adults who struggle with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, self-worth, relationship and substance use issues.
(602) 362-8505 View (602) 362-8505
Photo of Andrew Stravitz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Andrew Stravitz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85020
I work with couples, parents, families, co-parents, and adolescents. We work together to process trauma, conflict, and grief. I also work with clients on faith deconstruction, transition, and development.
I work with couples, parents, families, co-parents, and adolescents. We work together to process trauma, conflict, and grief. I also work with clients on faith deconstruction, transition, and development.
(520) 779-4817 View (520) 779-4817
Photo of Talk It Out Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Talk It Out Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
Accepting New Clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master’s degree in social work. I have 10+ years of experience working in various mental health settings. Therapy takes courage. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress and trauma can be difficult and overwhelming to face alone. I believe it is important to start where the client is and help them move in the direction they want to go. I am passionate about helping others and giving them the tools they need to experience success. My goal is to create a safe environment where clients can process, learn, heal and grow.
Accepting New Clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master’s degree in social work. I have 10+ years of experience working in various mental health settings. Therapy takes courage. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress and trauma can be difficult and overwhelming to face alone. I believe it is important to start where the client is and help them move in the direction they want to go. I am passionate about helping others and giving them the tools they need to experience success. My goal is to create a safe environment where clients can process, learn, heal and grow.
(602) 960-5908 View (602) 960-5908
Photo of Jordin Bourque, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Jordin Bourque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051  (Online Only)
Life often presents us with difficult challenges, causing stress and discomfort. These are not things you have to navigate alone. In my practice I work to create a compassionate and collaborative environment with you to promote healing. I specialize in working with young adults and adults to address anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression, and relational difficulties.
Life often presents us with difficult challenges, causing stress and discomfort. These are not things you have to navigate alone. In my practice I work to create a compassionate and collaborative environment with you to promote healing. I specialize in working with young adults and adults to address anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression, and relational difficulties.
(602) 641-3990 View (602) 641-3990
Photo of Sylvia Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Sylvia Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85051
Accepting new clients! I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience in various mental health settings. I am passionate about helping others learn to manage conflict in their lives. Choosing to go to therapy is a decision that takes a lot of courage and strength. Finding a therapist that you trust can be challenging.
Accepting new clients! I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience in various mental health settings. I am passionate about helping others learn to manage conflict in their lives. Choosing to go to therapy is a decision that takes a lot of courage and strength. Finding a therapist that you trust can be challenging.
(602) 461-8207 View (602) 461-8207
Photo of Megan Cox, Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Megan Cox
Counselor, LAC, BHP
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85022  (Online Only)
Whether you have been dealing with an issue for years or if it is something that has recently surfaced, counseling can be beneficial in addressing the problem. Counseling provides a non-judgmental environment with encouragement to explore the source of the presenting problem and work towards a greater well-being. I enjoy working with adolescent teens through middle-aged individuals and couples on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship issues, mood disorders, coping skills, and self-esteem.
Whether you have been dealing with an issue for years or if it is something that has recently surfaced, counseling can be beneficial in addressing the problem. Counseling provides a non-judgmental environment with encouragement to explore the source of the presenting problem and work towards a greater well-being. I enjoy working with adolescent teens through middle-aged individuals and couples on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship issues, mood disorders, coping skills, and self-esteem.
(480) 605-5027 View (480) 605-5027
Photo of Layla M Noland, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Layla M Noland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
I am a Licensed Therapist in the state of Arizona who has years of experience partnering with teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma issues, life transitions, self- esteem issues and more. The framework I practice from is dynamic and it continues to evolve, allowing client-centered opportunities for healing to take place. I completed my graduate degree at Grand Canyon University.
I am a Licensed Therapist in the state of Arizona who has years of experience partnering with teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma issues, life transitions, self- esteem issues and more. The framework I practice from is dynamic and it continues to evolve, allowing client-centered opportunities for healing to take place. I completed my graduate degree at Grand Canyon University.
(602) 755-4511 View (602) 755-4511
Photo of Nicole Rizkallah, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Nicole Rizkallah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MALA, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Raised with values of honesty, hospitality, and humor, I recognize the importance of meeting you precisely where you are. Every person carries stories about their identity, shaped by their families and the world around them. I have personally navigated my own history and intergenerational trauma, reclaiming parts of myself that were lost and shedding the burdens that were never mine to carry. As a therapist, my path toward this profession has been deeply entwined with my own personal longing for meaning and purpose.
Raised with values of honesty, hospitality, and humor, I recognize the importance of meeting you precisely where you are. Every person carries stories about their identity, shaped by their families and the world around them. I have personally navigated my own history and intergenerational trauma, reclaiming parts of myself that were lost and shedding the burdens that were never mine to carry. As a therapist, my path toward this profession has been deeply entwined with my own personal longing for meaning and purpose.
(480) 571-1061 View (480) 571-1061
Photo of Alan Boss (B.o.s.s. Ihc) in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Alan Boss (B.o.s.s. Ihc)
MC,
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
Not accepting new clients
Alan specializes in working with people who are experiencing life stressors, loss of job, feelings of worthlessness, transitioning from the legal system, substance abuse, daily stressors, emotional issues, all of which can become overwhelming. Our goal at B.O.S.S. IHC is to assist and support individuals in living a life with awareness, intention, being goal oriented, processing past experiences, as well as assisting in choices for successful relationships, work/life balance and personal peace. As a veteran himself, Alan has a heart for working with this community to deal with trauma, anger issues and civilian life transition.
Alan specializes in working with people who are experiencing life stressors, loss of job, feelings of worthlessness, transitioning from the legal system, substance abuse, daily stressors, emotional issues, all of which can become overwhelming. Our goal at B.O.S.S. IHC is to assist and support individuals in living a life with awareness, intention, being goal oriented, processing past experiences, as well as assisting in choices for successful relationships, work/life balance and personal peace. As a veteran himself, Alan has a heart for working with this community to deal with trauma, anger issues and civilian life transition.
(623) 257-5247 View (623) 257-5247
Photo of Rosemary Eads, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Rosemary Eads
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85021  (Online Only)
Most of my clients are highly sensitive people who have strong intuition and want to work in a deep way. They often are therapists, healers, psychics and people for whom direct experience spirituality is important. Many of them have experienced talk therapy and want to go deeper, recognizing that the roots of most emotional or cognitive issues are below ordinary consciousness. They are seeking life-changing experience rather than mental insight. They appreciate a therapist who can see and acknowledge their inherent wisdom and power as a soul, and they are seeking a therapist who is highly trained and also works intuitively.
Most of my clients are highly sensitive people who have strong intuition and want to work in a deep way. They often are therapists, healers, psychics and people for whom direct experience spirituality is important. Many of them have experienced talk therapy and want to go deeper, recognizing that the roots of most emotional or cognitive issues are below ordinary consciousness. They are seeking life-changing experience rather than mental insight. They appreciate a therapist who can see and acknowledge their inherent wisdom and power as a soul, and they are seeking a therapist who is highly trained and also works intuitively.
(520) 655-6026 View (520) 655-6026
Photo of Don Gudeman, Pre-Licensed Professional in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
Don Gudeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MABC, CFTP
Verified Verified
North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ 85029
Most of Don's clients are people who identify as Christians who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or addictions while some of them may seek only spiritual guidance and practical application. They are generally seeking someone who is extremely knowledgeable, well educated, and experienced. These are generally people who are looking for someone they can trust and confide in without the fear of being judged. They usually want help navigating life in order to experience personal healing and growth without compromising their values.
Most of Don's clients are people who identify as Christians who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or addictions while some of them may seek only spiritual guidance and practical application. They are generally seeking someone who is extremely knowledgeable, well educated, and experienced. These are generally people who are looking for someone they can trust and confide in without the fear of being judged. They usually want help navigating life in order to experience personal healing and growth without compromising their values.
(602) 833-5139 View (602) 833-5139

See more therapy options for North Mountain, Phoenix

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
84% Depression
79% Trauma and PTSD
72% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
70% Stress
68% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
71% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in North Mountain, Phoenix, AZ see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in North Mountain, Phoenix?

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.