Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

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Photo of Brett Andersen, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Brett Andersen
Psychologist, PsyD, SSP, ABSNP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
As a child psychologist and a parent (myself), I love working with families. I can appreciate the difficulties of parenting, but as I child psychologist I understand child-related difficulties as they apply to academics inside and out. I currently work part-time for a local school district so I am up-to-date with any school-related practices (e.g., distance learning, IEPs, 504s, etc.). I love being able to resolve child-related concerns via psychoeducational evaluations and providing parents with a "road map" so their child gets what they need to be most successful.
As a child psychologist and a parent (myself), I love working with families. I can appreciate the difficulties of parenting, but as I child psychologist I understand child-related difficulties as they apply to academics inside and out. I currently work part-time for a local school district so I am up-to-date with any school-related practices (e.g., distance learning, IEPs, 504s, etc.). I love being able to resolve child-related concerns via psychoeducational evaluations and providing parents with a "road map" so their child gets what they need to be most successful.
(928) 236-9232 View (928) 236-9232
Photo of Tabitha Martin, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Tabitha Martin
Counselor, MSc, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, worried about every little thing, or unable to cope? Together we can work toward healing and growth. I am passionate about working with parents, families, adolescents, and children in areas including trauma processing, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity affirming. I understand that navigating through life stages can be a struggle, and I know that you do not have to go through it alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, worried about every little thing, or unable to cope? Together we can work toward healing and growth. I am passionate about working with parents, families, adolescents, and children in areas including trauma processing, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity affirming. I understand that navigating through life stages can be a struggle, and I know that you do not have to go through it alone.
(520) 335-9239 View (520) 335-9239
Photo of Kara Ironside, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Scottsdale, AZ
Kara Ironside
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I believe that the courageous step of exploring therapy can lead to healing, growth, and a changed life. I have a passion for bearing witness to each individual’s unique story. My work as a trauma therapist has sparked a passion in me to create safety when a client has been completely robbed of their sense of security. I feel especially passionate working with those who identify with having trauma and clients that are navigating adolescence.
I believe that the courageous step of exploring therapy can lead to healing, growth, and a changed life. I have a passion for bearing witness to each individual’s unique story. My work as a trauma therapist has sparked a passion in me to create safety when a client has been completely robbed of their sense of security. I feel especially passionate working with those who identify with having trauma and clients that are navigating adolescence.
(480) 571-9886 View (480) 571-9886
Photo of Michelle Krue, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Michelle Krue
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
It takes courage to start your counseling journey and my goal is to create a safe environment for you to share. I want you to know you are not alone, everyone can benefit from counseling when they are ready for it. I believe in building a foundation of trust, one where you feel heard, and without judgement. I am dedicated to providing treatment that is best suited to your individual needs. You are the expert of your life, and I am there as your trusting guide, offering you support in achieving your goals. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families facing a variety of life’s challenges.
It takes courage to start your counseling journey and my goal is to create a safe environment for you to share. I want you to know you are not alone, everyone can benefit from counseling when they are ready for it. I believe in building a foundation of trust, one where you feel heard, and without judgement. I am dedicated to providing treatment that is best suited to your individual needs. You are the expert of your life, and I am there as your trusting guide, offering you support in achieving your goals. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families facing a variety of life’s challenges.
(480) 605-5008 View (480) 605-5008
Photo of Tony Bratko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Tony Bratko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I specialize in all mood, behavioral, an addictive disorders. I also have extensive training and education in treating complex trauma especially active duty military and veterans with PTSD. I utilize EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma. I believe in making my clients comfortable with the therapeutic process. I do interventions for substance use and mental health issues. I do not fit the stereotype of a therapist in a suit and tie. you will usually find me in jeans and sneakers. I am also in long-term recovery from drugs and alcohol.
I specialize in all mood, behavioral, an addictive disorders. I also have extensive training and education in treating complex trauma especially active duty military and veterans with PTSD. I utilize EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma. I believe in making my clients comfortable with the therapeutic process. I do interventions for substance use and mental health issues. I do not fit the stereotype of a therapist in a suit and tie. you will usually find me in jeans and sneakers. I am also in long-term recovery from drugs and alcohol.
(480) 210-5572 View (480) 210-5572
Photo of Heather Hillenbrand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Heather Hillenbrand
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
As a Sex and Relationship Therapist, I believe it is each person's birthright to have the knowledge, understanding, and support to achieve freedom of sexual expression. By offering a safe, collaborative, welcoming space, I provide support to individuals, couples, and relationships of all types for challenges within the area of sexuality. I provide a sex-positive therapy room affirming all sexual orientations and relationship types.
As a Sex and Relationship Therapist, I believe it is each person's birthright to have the knowledge, understanding, and support to achieve freedom of sexual expression. By offering a safe, collaborative, welcoming space, I provide support to individuals, couples, and relationships of all types for challenges within the area of sexuality. I provide a sex-positive therapy room affirming all sexual orientations and relationship types.
(480) 637-2185 View (480) 637-2185
Photo of Kai Kline, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Kai Kline
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm a licensed therapist and provide individual/family therapy for all ages. I help clients navigate a variety of experiences, including anxiety/depression, trauma, neurodiversity, and specialize in gender/sexual identity. I approach counseling in a variety of ways but primarily work with the narrative that we are the experts of our own lives and as such, can make meaningful change. I provide clients with a safe space for exploration and growth by maintaining a nonjudgmental and laid back approach to therapy. I encourage all clients to show up as their authentic selves, and together we can identify and foster meaningful change!
Hi! I'm a licensed therapist and provide individual/family therapy for all ages. I help clients navigate a variety of experiences, including anxiety/depression, trauma, neurodiversity, and specialize in gender/sexual identity. I approach counseling in a variety of ways but primarily work with the narrative that we are the experts of our own lives and as such, can make meaningful change. I provide clients with a safe space for exploration and growth by maintaining a nonjudgmental and laid back approach to therapy. I encourage all clients to show up as their authentic selves, and together we can identify and foster meaningful change!
(480) 571-3746 View (480) 571-3746
Photo of Michelle Cermak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Michelle Cermak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Michelle Cermak, our Licensed Professional Counselor, is passionate about helping you discover and understand the complex impact of trauma on one’s ability to self-regulate, as well as the associations between childhood adversity and health. . She provides a safe and supportive space to those that are struggling with mental health; battling emotional, behavioral and substance abuse barriers keeping them from leading a fulfilling life.
Michelle Cermak, our Licensed Professional Counselor, is passionate about helping you discover and understand the complex impact of trauma on one’s ability to self-regulate, as well as the associations between childhood adversity and health. . She provides a safe and supportive space to those that are struggling with mental health; battling emotional, behavioral and substance abuse barriers keeping them from leading a fulfilling life.
(623) 263-9268 View (623) 263-9268
Photo of Elizabeth Kresojevich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Elizabeth Kresojevich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Not accepting new clients
My belief is that therapy is a collaborative process that includes integration of culture, values, and morals for couples and families. I believe that therapy is a journey where we utilize story-telling to explore different patterns of anxiety, distress, and grief to create a narrative that feels comfortable and aligns with your goals as a couple or family.
My belief is that therapy is a collaborative process that includes integration of culture, values, and morals for couples and families. I believe that therapy is a journey where we utilize story-telling to explore different patterns of anxiety, distress, and grief to create a narrative that feels comfortable and aligns with your goals as a couple or family.
(602) 892-5360 View (602) 892-5360
Photo of Dr. Tracy S. Kelly, The Strategic Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Dr. Tracy S. Kelly, The Strategic Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
Journey toward a life free from the things that have held you back. I'm Dr. Tracy Kelly, a strategic psychotherapist who specializes in helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families toward wellness, and healing. If you're seeking new ways to change behaviors, thoughts, and actions, with new tools, you're in the right place. I work with clients to help them heal from a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, low-self esteem, fear, doubt, abuse, grief, loss, ADD/ADHD, infidelity, divorce, blended families, mood disorders, hopelessness, stress, communication, and more. Check out my website for even more about what I do!
Journey toward a life free from the things that have held you back. I'm Dr. Tracy Kelly, a strategic psychotherapist who specializes in helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families toward wellness, and healing. If you're seeking new ways to change behaviors, thoughts, and actions, with new tools, you're in the right place. I work with clients to help them heal from a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, low-self esteem, fear, doubt, abuse, grief, loss, ADD/ADHD, infidelity, divorce, blended families, mood disorders, hopelessness, stress, communication, and more. Check out my website for even more about what I do!
(602) 353-7433 View (602) 353-7433
Photo of Kristin Massey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Kristin Massey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
My focus at A Nurturing Approach is to provide a safe, positive, nurturing environment for your healing and to customize a treatment plan for you or your child.
My focus at A Nurturing Approach is to provide a safe, positive, nurturing environment for your healing and to customize a treatment plan for you or your child.
(623) 294-6719 View (623) 294-6719
Photo of Elizabeth M Hanson, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Elizabeth M Hanson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
With each interaction I find that striking a balance between a safe therapeutic space and appropriate challenges leads to the most holistic healing and deeper insights. I believe in a top-down and bottom-up approach when it comes to therapy. I hope to encourage a client to take responsibility over their own life while recognizing and validating the larger systems and realities that impact them. The ultimate goal is to translate growth within the therapy room to a client’s actual day-to-day life. Overall, I hope to empower clients to uncover new healthier ways of being for themselves.
With each interaction I find that striking a balance between a safe therapeutic space and appropriate challenges leads to the most holistic healing and deeper insights. I believe in a top-down and bottom-up approach when it comes to therapy. I hope to encourage a client to take responsibility over their own life while recognizing and validating the larger systems and realities that impact them. The ultimate goal is to translate growth within the therapy room to a client’s actual day-to-day life. Overall, I hope to empower clients to uncover new healthier ways of being for themselves.
(623) 462-1304 View (623) 462-1304
Photo of Jeffrey S Cohen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Jeffrey S Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Congratulations for your strength in taking this big first step and seeking help. That decision suggests that you are motivated and ready to take the action necessary to move forward and address the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are holding you back. My counseling style is collaborative and personalized. This non-judgmental and safe relationship is the foundation which allows for honesty, transparency, and change. Our journey together will not always be clear and easy; such is life, but nothing stays the same, we can always make life better.
Congratulations for your strength in taking this big first step and seeking help. That decision suggests that you are motivated and ready to take the action necessary to move forward and address the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are holding you back. My counseling style is collaborative and personalized. This non-judgmental and safe relationship is the foundation which allows for honesty, transparency, and change. Our journey together will not always be clear and easy; such is life, but nothing stays the same, we can always make life better.
(480) 680-0710 View (480) 680-0710
Photo of Melissa Alamprese, Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Melissa Alamprese
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Do you find yourself wondering if there has to be more to life than 'this,' whatever 'this' may be? Perhaps you find yourself plagued by thoughts, feelings, and images popping up at highly inopportune times (like bedtime or after social events). Our bodies can only handle so much stress before they start throwing out warning signs, most of which we've become quite adept at ignoring. Whether you are aware of the 'why' or source of these feelings or not, we don't have to live this way. We cannot escape the ups and downs of life, but we can learn to navigate those peaks and valleys without the constant worry of 'Am I doing life right?'
Do you find yourself wondering if there has to be more to life than 'this,' whatever 'this' may be? Perhaps you find yourself plagued by thoughts, feelings, and images popping up at highly inopportune times (like bedtime or after social events). Our bodies can only handle so much stress before they start throwing out warning signs, most of which we've become quite adept at ignoring. Whether you are aware of the 'why' or source of these feelings or not, we don't have to live this way. We cannot escape the ups and downs of life, but we can learn to navigate those peaks and valleys without the constant worry of 'Am I doing life right?'
(480) 613-2541 View (480) 613-2541
Photo of Rachel Goodman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Rachel Goodman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LAMFT, MAS-MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Are you struggling in your relationship? I am here to help. No relationship is perfect. But it takes two people willing to work hard, grow together, and be open to change. I would to love help you through your growth journey. It has always been a passion of mine to help couples grow into the best version of their relationships. My therapy room is a safe, supportive, & non judgemental space. I specialize in helping couples with a wide range of challenges. My approach collaborative, compassionate and informative. You will leave my sessions with and tools to help you grow. Accepting new clients! Located near Scottsdale, Arcadia, Tempe.
Are you struggling in your relationship? I am here to help. No relationship is perfect. But it takes two people willing to work hard, grow together, and be open to change. I would to love help you through your growth journey. It has always been a passion of mine to help couples grow into the best version of their relationships. My therapy room is a safe, supportive, & non judgemental space. I specialize in helping couples with a wide range of challenges. My approach collaborative, compassionate and informative. You will leave my sessions with and tools to help you grow. Accepting new clients! Located near Scottsdale, Arcadia, Tempe.
(480) 376-7216 View (480) 376-7216
Photo of Michael L Mcgowan, Psychologist in Scottsdale, AZ
Michael L Mcgowan
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MBA, LP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260  (Online Only)
I design therapy to address the specific problems the person wants to work on. Anything from counseling to deep psychotherapy. I use CBT, EMDR, Client-Centered and Schema therapy. I also have training in psychodynamic and transpersonal therapy. I was trained in Chicago and have worked in private and community clinics, on an in-patient VA dual diagnosis unit and a correctional facility hospital, and at the Illinois state hospital in Chicago. I work with anxiety, OCD, Panic, and depressive/bipolar disorders, ADHD, trauma survivors, couples, LGBT, sexual problems, and male psychology, TBI.
I design therapy to address the specific problems the person wants to work on. Anything from counseling to deep psychotherapy. I use CBT, EMDR, Client-Centered and Schema therapy. I also have training in psychodynamic and transpersonal therapy. I was trained in Chicago and have worked in private and community clinics, on an in-patient VA dual diagnosis unit and a correctional facility hospital, and at the Illinois state hospital in Chicago. I work with anxiety, OCD, Panic, and depressive/bipolar disorders, ADHD, trauma survivors, couples, LGBT, sexual problems, and male psychology, TBI.
(480) 225-3236 View (480) 225-3236
Photo of Alium Health in Scottsdale, AZ
Alium Health
LMFT, LPC, NP, MD, RD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Alium Health is an integrated health home for women with both medical and behavioral health care available. We offer additional services such as care coordination, medical nutrition therapy, and community resource support. We recognize the importance of treating the mind and body as one, so we welcome anyone who is searching for a holistic approach to healing.
Alium Health is an integrated health home for women with both medical and behavioral health care available. We offer additional services such as care coordination, medical nutrition therapy, and community resource support. We recognize the importance of treating the mind and body as one, so we welcome anyone who is searching for a holistic approach to healing.
(480) 525-8426 View (480) 525-8426
Photo of Jordan Johansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Scottsdale, AZ
Jordan Johansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I believe in the power of connection, in embracing the quirks that make us individuals, and in fostering a space where vulnerability is not just accepted but celebrated. Whether it's through the language of play, art, or the dialogue of words, I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit each young person's unique journey. Cognitive-behavioral techniques, expressive arts, and a sprinkle of humor are my tools to help your child or teenager navigate challenges with grace.
I believe in the power of connection, in embracing the quirks that make us individuals, and in fostering a space where vulnerability is not just accepted but celebrated. Whether it's through the language of play, art, or the dialogue of words, I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit each young person's unique journey. Cognitive-behavioral techniques, expressive arts, and a sprinkle of humor are my tools to help your child or teenager navigate challenges with grace.
(520) 636-0843 View (520) 636-0843
Photo of Always Living My Best Life, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Always Living My Best Life, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in Arizona and Texas online teletherapy sessions only. Change can be frightening and overwhelming, but if we choose to avoid it rather than face it head-on, we will only continue to remain stuck. My belief is that therapy is a collaborative effort between the counselor and client. I will assist you with overcoming self-defeating beliefs that stifle your personal growth by utilizing techniques and resources to help you lead a more productive, prosperous, and meaningful life.
Accepting new clients in Arizona and Texas online teletherapy sessions only. Change can be frightening and overwhelming, but if we choose to avoid it rather than face it head-on, we will only continue to remain stuck. My belief is that therapy is a collaborative effort between the counselor and client. I will assist you with overcoming self-defeating beliefs that stifle your personal growth by utilizing techniques and resources to help you lead a more productive, prosperous, and meaningful life.
(480) 771-3863 View (480) 771-3863
Photo of Gena Kohner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Scottsdale, AZ
Gena Kohner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you are here. The decision to start therapy isn't always an easy one, and you’ve already accomplished one of the hardest parts: starting the process. The process of finding a therapist can also be a bit overwhelming, and finding someone that is a good match for you is essential to your success. Naturally, you may feel a little nervous or uncertain at first, and that is okay! I am here to answer any of your questions and make the process less intimidating. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and developing a genuine relationship with each one.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you are here. The decision to start therapy isn't always an easy one, and you’ve already accomplished one of the hardest parts: starting the process. The process of finding a therapist can also be a bit overwhelming, and finding someone that is a good match for you is essential to your success. Naturally, you may feel a little nervous or uncertain at first, and that is okay! I am here to answer any of your questions and make the process less intimidating. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and developing a genuine relationship with each one.
(602) 492-6921 View (602) 492-6921

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
63% BlueCross and BlueShield
58% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Scottsdale?

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.