Therapists in The Woodlands, TX

Photo of Vanessa Pate, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Vanessa Pate
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Glad you are here today! As a bilingual licensed mental health counselor, I am committed to creating a warm, inclusive, and compassionate environment where you are supported in becoming your best self. I work primarily with individuals and families who are seeking support regarding issues related to, trauma, anxiety, depression, highly sensitive and/or empathetic persons, adjustment and life transition, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, healthy communication and boundaries, and exploration of life purpose and meaning.
Glad you are here today! As a bilingual licensed mental health counselor, I am committed to creating a warm, inclusive, and compassionate environment where you are supported in becoming your best self. I work primarily with individuals and families who are seeking support regarding issues related to, trauma, anxiety, depression, highly sensitive and/or empathetic persons, adjustment and life transition, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, healthy communication and boundaries, and exploration of life purpose and meaning.
(713) 843-7199 View (713) 843-7199
Photo of Joshua Marlar, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Joshua Marlar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
We can’t seem to connect anymore. I’m so tired of fighting I don’t know if I can do it anymore. If I married the love of my life, why do I always feel so alone? We are basically just roommates these days. Do I really even love him/her anymore? We haven’t had sex in I don’t even know how long. If you have said or thought any of these things, I'm so sorry. You are not alone, and it doesn't have to be that way. I see you.
We can’t seem to connect anymore. I’m so tired of fighting I don’t know if I can do it anymore. If I married the love of my life, why do I always feel so alone? We are basically just roommates these days. Do I really even love him/her anymore? We haven’t had sex in I don’t even know how long. If you have said or thought any of these things, I'm so sorry. You are not alone, and it doesn't have to be that way. I see you.
(432) 271-4998 View (432) 271-4998
Photo of John Beralas, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
John Beralas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I was born and raised on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. This is where I developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures with Hawaii being the melting pot for cultures. My passion lies in working with teens/adolescents and young adults, helping them to navigate the challenges of growing up in today's face-paced world. As someone who has been working with this teens/adolescents and young adults for over 9 years, I possess a unique gift of being able to connect with this population on multiple levels. I believe that being able to relate and connect with the client is by far the most valuable gift a therapist can possess.
I was born and raised on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. This is where I developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures with Hawaii being the melting pot for cultures. My passion lies in working with teens/adolescents and young adults, helping them to navigate the challenges of growing up in today's face-paced world. As someone who has been working with this teens/adolescents and young adults for over 9 years, I possess a unique gift of being able to connect with this population on multiple levels. I believe that being able to relate and connect with the client is by far the most valuable gift a therapist can possess.
(936) 243-5507 View (936) 243-5507
Photo of Ciera Taylor in The Woodlands, TX
Ciera Taylor
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Welcome to Archway Counseling. I am excited to go on this journey alongside you. I have experience working with adults who are dealing with severe mental illness, substance abuse, institutionalization, trauma, and depression. I also have experience working with children and teenagers alongside their families who are dealing with anger management, grief, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker-Associate in the State of Texas. I earned my Master of Social Work from Texas Tech Univ. I work under the supervision of Shelly Peterson who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor.
Welcome to Archway Counseling. I am excited to go on this journey alongside you. I have experience working with adults who are dealing with severe mental illness, substance abuse, institutionalization, trauma, and depression. I also have experience working with children and teenagers alongside their families who are dealing with anger management, grief, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker-Associate in the State of Texas. I earned my Master of Social Work from Texas Tech Univ. I work under the supervision of Shelly Peterson who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor.
(281) 462-5804 View (281) 462-5804
Photo of Kacie LeGaye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Kacie LeGaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
Kacie LeGaye is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. Kacie has expertise working with individuals, couples, and families and focuses on the power of communication in relationships. She earned her Masters of Science in Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin. Since graduation, Kacie has worked in various roles working with crisis, case management, and an Integrated Care Program to provide behavioral health services to children, adolescents, and adults.
Kacie LeGaye is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. Kacie has expertise working with individuals, couples, and families and focuses on the power of communication in relationships. She earned her Masters of Science in Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin. Since graduation, Kacie has worked in various roles working with crisis, case management, and an Integrated Care Program to provide behavioral health services to children, adolescents, and adults.
(339) 218-3090 View (339) 218-3090
Photo of Crystal Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Crystal Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
You are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and be the best version of you. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to resolve hindrances and challenges that your life may have caused. I work with both couples and individuals. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you!
You are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and be the best version of you. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to resolve hindrances and challenges that your life may have caused. I work with both couples and individuals. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you!
(214) 617-1642 View (214) 617-1642
Photo of Holly L Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Holly L Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Waitlist for new clients
Life presents each of us with challenges that can often feel overwhelming and leave one feeling anxious, depressed, and fearful. The opportunity to connect with others is a gift. I am focused on walking the path of healing with individuals, teens, children, and families. Each of us is a product of our life experiences. I believe that each individual possesses an inner strength that at times is difficult to access. My desire is to assist others in this journey called life and move toward hope and peace.
Life presents each of us with challenges that can often feel overwhelming and leave one feeling anxious, depressed, and fearful. The opportunity to connect with others is a gift. I am focused on walking the path of healing with individuals, teens, children, and families. Each of us is a product of our life experiences. I believe that each individual possesses an inner strength that at times is difficult to access. My desire is to assist others in this journey called life and move toward hope and peace.
(936) 249-0939 View (936) 249-0939
Photo of David Christopher Estes, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
David Christopher Estes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I have 20+ years of experience as a licensed clinician. During that time, I have taken many roles within the helping professions - first responder, therapist, supervisor, university professor and clinical director, to name a few. I work with many situations and would like to see if I can assist you. I work with ages 15 and up and see clients in many modalities, including individual, couple, family and group therapy sessions. I have significant experience with crisis management & intervention, assessment & diagnosis, clients who are prescribed psychotropic medications and professionals in high-stress careers (Health, LEOs, Law, Ed.).
I have 20+ years of experience as a licensed clinician. During that time, I have taken many roles within the helping professions - first responder, therapist, supervisor, university professor and clinical director, to name a few. I work with many situations and would like to see if I can assist you. I work with ages 15 and up and see clients in many modalities, including individual, couple, family and group therapy sessions. I have significant experience with crisis management & intervention, assessment & diagnosis, clients who are prescribed psychotropic medications and professionals in high-stress careers (Health, LEOs, Law, Ed.).
(936) 227-5403 View (936) 227-5403
Photo of Marcia Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Marcia Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I provide counseling to clients of all ages with various tha include anxiety, stress, anger,depression, substance use, sleep deprivation and behavioral nutrition concerns. I utilize health psychology, mental health education, substance use education and yoga principles within practice as I work with clients. Overall wellness is the focus for the clients I work with which includes, nutrition, sleep and exercise while working on their emotional and behavioral concerns. I implement the Strengthening Families program for those families that are in need of creating a healthy environment that promotes positive experiences in family life.
I provide counseling to clients of all ages with various tha include anxiety, stress, anger,depression, substance use, sleep deprivation and behavioral nutrition concerns. I utilize health psychology, mental health education, substance use education and yoga principles within practice as I work with clients. Overall wellness is the focus for the clients I work with which includes, nutrition, sleep and exercise while working on their emotional and behavioral concerns. I implement the Strengthening Families program for those families that are in need of creating a healthy environment that promotes positive experiences in family life.
(281) 462-5635 View (281) 462-5635
Photo of Village Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Village Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
At Village Wellness, we offer individual counseling to help you learn how to navigate life's challenges in healthy ways. Our areas of expertise include life transitions, managing work stress, grief, trauma and chronic illness. We also offer couples and family therapy. We know healthy relationships involve being intentional and taking initiative in order for them to thrive. Other areas of expertise include working with couples or families focusing on communication skills, parenting, blending families and more. Individuals who may desire to learn new skills to cope with life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem are welcome.
At Village Wellness, we offer individual counseling to help you learn how to navigate life's challenges in healthy ways. Our areas of expertise include life transitions, managing work stress, grief, trauma and chronic illness. We also offer couples and family therapy. We know healthy relationships involve being intentional and taking initiative in order for them to thrive. Other areas of expertise include working with couples or families focusing on communication skills, parenting, blending families and more. Individuals who may desire to learn new skills to cope with life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem are welcome.
(936) 220-3711 View (936) 220-3711
Photo of Catherine Prestigiovanni, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Catherine Prestigiovanni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Catherine Prestigiovanni is a licensed professional counselor supervisor with over 23 years of experience providing supportive psychotherapy to adults, couples, and veterans seeking to develop a healthier and more productive life. Catherine specializes in anxiety, stress, PTSD, trauma, and relationship issues.
Catherine Prestigiovanni is a licensed professional counselor supervisor with over 23 years of experience providing supportive psychotherapy to adults, couples, and veterans seeking to develop a healthier and more productive life. Catherine specializes in anxiety, stress, PTSD, trauma, and relationship issues.
(936) 237-7108 View (936) 237-7108
Photo of Callie Metzinger Mackenzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Callie Metzinger Mackenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I'm here to support you through life's challenges. With years of experience and a toolbox full of effective techniques, such CBT and SFT; I've got what it takes to help you thrive and be successful. Let's work together to create a personalized plan that suits your unique needs. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, or anything else, I'm here to help you find your way forward. Let's start your journey together.
I'm here to support you through life's challenges. With years of experience and a toolbox full of effective techniques, such CBT and SFT; I've got what it takes to help you thrive and be successful. Let's work together to create a personalized plan that suits your unique needs. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, or anything else, I'm here to help you find your way forward. Let's start your journey together.
(936) 256-1968 View (936) 256-1968
Photo of Angela Pidala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Angela Pidala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, RPT™
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Deciding to go to counseling takes a huge step of courage. Therefore, connecting with your counselor and feeling comfortable sharing your heart is a top priority. I will meet you where you are and provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Together we will work to process your thoughts and feelings during life's challenging moments and move you closer to living a life you value. Whether that is helping you navigate your world while hormones, conflicting emotions, postpartum anxiety symptoms, and/or physical body changes become daily experiences; Or your child learn emotional regulation, expand their window of tolerance or process trauma.
Deciding to go to counseling takes a huge step of courage. Therefore, connecting with your counselor and feeling comfortable sharing your heart is a top priority. I will meet you where you are and provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Together we will work to process your thoughts and feelings during life's challenging moments and move you closer to living a life you value. Whether that is helping you navigate your world while hormones, conflicting emotions, postpartum anxiety symptoms, and/or physical body changes become daily experiences; Or your child learn emotional regulation, expand their window of tolerance or process trauma.
View
Photo of Barbara Hall, Psychologist in The Woodlands, TX
Barbara Hall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
"We all have times when we feel uncertain and alone. What we are looking for is a place to be ourselves and to talk to someone who will listen and understand us, a counselor who can help us see our situation in a new way and empower us to make changes in our lives." Dr. Hall's counseling is caring and straight-forward. She believes that healing comes from gaining understanding of ourselves and remembering our strengths.
"We all have times when we feel uncertain and alone. What we are looking for is a place to be ourselves and to talk to someone who will listen and understand us, a counselor who can help us see our situation in a new way and empower us to make changes in our lives." Dr. Hall's counseling is caring and straight-forward. She believes that healing comes from gaining understanding of ourselves and remembering our strengths.
(281) 671-7992 View (281) 671-7992
Photo of Mary Thory, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Mary Thory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing grief over a major loss? Are you dealing with past trauma? I would love to work with you. I have had many personal and professional experiences that can help me help you. I believe that the only things we truly have control over in our life are our own thoughts and behaviors. It is because of this belief that I use cognitive-behavioral therapy. I teach thought stopping, cognitive restructuring, relaxation, mindfulness, grounding, calming techniques and am also a fully trained EMDR Therapist. Call me to see if we would make a good therapeutic team.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing grief over a major loss? Are you dealing with past trauma? I would love to work with you. I have had many personal and professional experiences that can help me help you. I believe that the only things we truly have control over in our life are our own thoughts and behaviors. It is because of this belief that I use cognitive-behavioral therapy. I teach thought stopping, cognitive restructuring, relaxation, mindfulness, grounding, calming techniques and am also a fully trained EMDR Therapist. Call me to see if we would make a good therapeutic team.
(281) 712-6677 View (281) 712-6677
Photo of Sue Watkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Sue Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Welcome! Wanting your life to change? Feeling paralyzed by anxiety or depression? Struggling with relationships? Concerned about drinking? I understand and would like to help. We all face struggles and need help at times. I would consider it to be a privilege to be a part of your journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life. it is hard to make that first call. Let's be honest it feels strange initially to talk to a stranger about your personal life. It will be OK and you will be on your way to a new life.
Welcome! Wanting your life to change? Feeling paralyzed by anxiety or depression? Struggling with relationships? Concerned about drinking? I understand and would like to help. We all face struggles and need help at times. I would consider it to be a privilege to be a part of your journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life. it is hard to make that first call. Let's be honest it feels strange initially to talk to a stranger about your personal life. It will be OK and you will be on your way to a new life.
(936) 776-4731 View (936) 776-4731
Photo of Jonathon Brook Viningre, Pre-Licensed Professional in The Woodlands, TX
Jonathon Brook Viningre
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I have several years experience working with other first responders during their time of crisis. I have proudly served on our Peer Support team for over 20 years. I believe my purpose is to serve those of us who have served and serve alongside me. I have a passion for passing on my knowledge, sharing my mistakes, and helping guide those to better themselves. My counseling approach comes with patience, kindness, and an empathetic approach. I am a firm believer in self-care and practice it myself. I also like to utilize mindfulness techniques to relieve and manage stress. Please visit Grace & Guidance at elevateyourlifecounseling.com
I have several years experience working with other first responders during their time of crisis. I have proudly served on our Peer Support team for over 20 years. I believe my purpose is to serve those of us who have served and serve alongside me. I have a passion for passing on my knowledge, sharing my mistakes, and helping guide those to better themselves. My counseling approach comes with patience, kindness, and an empathetic approach. I am a firm believer in self-care and practice it myself. I also like to utilize mindfulness techniques to relieve and manage stress. Please visit Grace & Guidance at elevateyourlifecounseling.com
(832) 242-9970 View (832) 242-9970
Photo of Alex Jacobsen, LPC Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Alex Jacobsen
LPC Associate, MA, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone who is ready to take a step forward and work on their mental health. I don't care about any other aspect of you as long as you are willing to have the tough conversations that are necessary for delving deeper into yourself. I am willing to work with any age, gender, nationality, etc. imaginable and hold no preference for working with any particular denomination versus another. The only requirement you must have is a desire to learn more about yourself and be open to new experiences (or old ones if you've been to therapy before). Being a part of your journey would mean the world to me.
My ideal client is anyone who is ready to take a step forward and work on their mental health. I don't care about any other aspect of you as long as you are willing to have the tough conversations that are necessary for delving deeper into yourself. I am willing to work with any age, gender, nationality, etc. imaginable and hold no preference for working with any particular denomination versus another. The only requirement you must have is a desire to learn more about yourself and be open to new experiences (or old ones if you've been to therapy before). Being a part of your journey would mean the world to me.
(281) 324-8036 View (281) 324-8036
Photo of Joel Connelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Joel Connelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Whether you are struggling with Grief, Depression, Anxiety, or normal life changes, we could all use a compass to navigate our way. It would be my honor to be that part of your journey and together overcome the difficulties that life can present. To achieve this, I believe that therapy works best when it is tailored to the personality and the individual needs of each client. Rather than relying on just one modality of psychotherapy,
Whether you are struggling with Grief, Depression, Anxiety, or normal life changes, we could all use a compass to navigate our way. It would be my honor to be that part of your journey and together overcome the difficulties that life can present. To achieve this, I believe that therapy works best when it is tailored to the personality and the individual needs of each client. Rather than relying on just one modality of psychotherapy,
(346) 536-5111 View (346) 536-5111
Photo of Angela Doolittle, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Angela Doolittle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
We all struggle with difficulties in our lives, and most have experienced some sort of trauma (big or small) that has affected our functioning at one time or another. My desire is to help people through these issues so they are able to to switch from surviving mode to thriving mode.
We all struggle with difficulties in our lives, and most have experienced some sort of trauma (big or small) that has affected our functioning at one time or another. My desire is to help people through these issues so they are able to to switch from surviving mode to thriving mode.
(281) 393-4517 View (281) 393-4517

See more therapy options for The Woodlands

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in The Woodlands, TX

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in The Woodlands, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
72% Stress
71% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in The Woodlands, TX see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in The Woodlands?

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.