Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Leah Thornton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Leah Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating various populations such as those with Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Adjustment disorders and other life stressors. I also assist with social and self-esteem issues, phobias, and mild-moderate OCD symptoms. In addition, I have experience with childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, and high-functioning Autism/Asperger's. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children, and I use an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment.
I specialize in treating various populations such as those with Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Adjustment disorders and other life stressors. I also assist with social and self-esteem issues, phobias, and mild-moderate OCD symptoms. In addition, I have experience with childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, and high-functioning Autism/Asperger's. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children, and I use an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment.
(614) 368-0206 View (614) 368-0206
Photo of Queen Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Queen Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
(614) 762-9107 View (614) 762-9107
Photo of Jason Stofel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jason Stofel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
(380) 207-0861 View (380) 207-0861
Photo of Dr. Henry Stringer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Henry Stringer
Counselor, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
(614) 654-5912 View (614) 654-5912
Photo of Tao Wilkes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tao Wilkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
(614) 412-1914 View (614) 412-1914
Photo of Christina R Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Christina R Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, emotional management, poor self-esteem, experiencing grief and loss; who are motivated and open to change and doing homework, and who desire to be a healthier version of themselves.
I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, emotional management, poor self-esteem, experiencing grief and loss; who are motivated and open to change and doing homework, and who desire to be a healthier version of themselves.
(380) 205-0489 View (380) 205-0489
Edwin C Huston
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My life experiences and education have contributed to my interactive CBT approach towards counseling. This approach is a combination of compassion, encouragement and reflective therapeutic focus towards growth and change. My therapy experience includes a successful career in telecommunications, changing careers to provide 15 years of therapeutic guidance in individual, group and family settings.
My life experiences and education have contributed to my interactive CBT approach towards counseling. This approach is a combination of compassion, encouragement and reflective therapeutic focus towards growth and change. My therapy experience includes a successful career in telecommunications, changing careers to provide 15 years of therapeutic guidance in individual, group and family settings.
(614) 714-6665 View (614) 714-6665
Photo of Clara Ann Huffman, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Clara Ann Huffman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
(614) 881-4729 View (614) 881-4729
Photo of Josh Grashin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Josh Grashin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is one who is looking for more and may or may not be able to pinpoint what it is they are seeking. Many of the people I counsel are dealing with a new life situation or have always been struggling for awhile, and therefore I approach every client as an individual with their own unique circumstances and that it is my job to help determine how to navigate those challenges. My ultimate goal is to help people learn to ride the waves that day-to-day life throws at them.
My ideal client is one who is looking for more and may or may not be able to pinpoint what it is they are seeking. Many of the people I counsel are dealing with a new life situation or have always been struggling for awhile, and therefore I approach every client as an individual with their own unique circumstances and that it is my job to help determine how to navigate those challenges. My ultimate goal is to help people learn to ride the waves that day-to-day life throws at them.
(614) 665-5594 View (614) 665-5594
Photo of Bonnie Gourley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Bonnie Gourley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents, to help navigate the challenges that come with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief/loss, divorce, life adjustments, and more. I’m here to offer support and enhance resiliency by promoting a sense of hope.
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents, to help navigate the challenges that come with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief/loss, divorce, life adjustments, and more. I’m here to offer support and enhance resiliency by promoting a sense of hope.
(614) 681-8545 View (614) 681-8545
Photo of Julia Dee in Westerville, OH
Julia Dee
LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
(937) 858-6433 View (937) 858-6433
Photo of Monarch Counseling, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Monarch Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
(614) 918-4935 View (614) 918-4935
Photo of Jill M. McCullough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jill M. McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
(614) 810-8949 View (614) 810-8949
Photo of Lindsay Gifford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lindsay Gifford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I recently graduated with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary and I am currently under the supervision of Sharon Williston-Benadum, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, SAP. I want my clients to know the joy that comes from living out of freedom from their mental health issues. I believe it is an honor to walk with clients through their struggles in life and desire for them to feel seen, known, and safe in our time together. I view the relationship with my clients as the most important aspect of our work together.
I recently graduated with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary and I am currently under the supervision of Sharon Williston-Benadum, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, SAP. I want my clients to know the joy that comes from living out of freedom from their mental health issues. I believe it is an honor to walk with clients through their struggles in life and desire for them to feel seen, known, and safe in our time together. I view the relationship with my clients as the most important aspect of our work together.
(614) 714-6249 x715 View (614) 714-6249 x715
Photo of Fresh Start Therapy and Wellness, LLC in Westerville, OH
Fresh Start Therapy and Wellness, LLC
LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
You just want to breathe. You just want to hope. You just want to know that there can be a better tomorrow, a fresh start. You have tried it alone for long enough, and you have decided that it's time to bring in some reinforcements. At Fresh Start, we see each person as an individual and seek to fit treatment to his or her needs. We will be fair. We will be compassionate. We will be honest. We will be in it for as long as you are able or willing. Life can beat you up. It's not your fault. Give yourself the support you need in a judgment-free, kind, honest space. What do you have to lose?
You just want to breathe. You just want to hope. You just want to know that there can be a better tomorrow, a fresh start. You have tried it alone for long enough, and you have decided that it's time to bring in some reinforcements. At Fresh Start, we see each person as an individual and seek to fit treatment to his or her needs. We will be fair. We will be compassionate. We will be honest. We will be in it for as long as you are able or willing. Life can beat you up. It's not your fault. Give yourself the support you need in a judgment-free, kind, honest space. What do you have to lose?
(380) 333-9826 View (380) 333-9826
Photo of Amy Weller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Amy Weller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
(380) 600-8835 View (380) 600-8835
Photo of Kevin Jaworski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Kevin Jaworski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist specializing in OCD, I understand the pain and futility that accompanies chronic overthinking and the difficulty of being mired in the same unhelpful behaviors and emotions. I understand the bewilderment of not knowing what could help, as well as the frustration of knowing, yet still feeling unable to move forward. We want agency over ourselves and our lives, but we also want to be able to let go of that which is out of our control. While I put no timetable on recovery, my hope for my clients is that they come to a place where they feel like they no longer need my services.
As a therapist specializing in OCD, I understand the pain and futility that accompanies chronic overthinking and the difficulty of being mired in the same unhelpful behaviors and emotions. I understand the bewilderment of not knowing what could help, as well as the frustration of knowing, yet still feeling unable to move forward. We want agency over ourselves and our lives, but we also want to be able to let go of that which is out of our control. While I put no timetable on recovery, my hope for my clients is that they come to a place where they feel like they no longer need my services.
(440) 271-8276 View (440) 271-8276
Photo of Bradley K. Fox, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Bradley K. Fox
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we hit a wall. Maybe we would usually describe our life as going pretty well, but lately we find it harder to find motivation, or we’re more irritable, anxious, or just plain sad. Sometimes we’ve struggled a long time (with nightmares, stress, bad memories, or feeling depressed) and it's beyond what a friend can help with. Whether your goals are to manage emotions, sleep better, think more clearly, feel better about yourself or key relationships, finally accept what can't be changed, better understand relationship patterns, or find a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life, counseling / psychotherapy may be helpful.
Sometimes we hit a wall. Maybe we would usually describe our life as going pretty well, but lately we find it harder to find motivation, or we’re more irritable, anxious, or just plain sad. Sometimes we’ve struggled a long time (with nightmares, stress, bad memories, or feeling depressed) and it's beyond what a friend can help with. Whether your goals are to manage emotions, sleep better, think more clearly, feel better about yourself or key relationships, finally accept what can't be changed, better understand relationship patterns, or find a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in life, counseling / psychotherapy may be helpful.
(614) 924-7411 x3 View (614) 924-7411 x3
Photo of Vincent Colecchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Vincent Colecchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
(614) 683-4566 View (614) 683-4566
Photo of Sara E Matlack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sara E Matlack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I genuinely enjoy working with families and adults seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parent child interaction, trauma, Domestic Violence and Spirituality. I love helping clients meet their individual goals and improving their coping skills to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues and trauma.
I genuinely enjoy working with families and adults seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parent child interaction, trauma, Domestic Violence and Spirituality. I love helping clients meet their individual goals and improving their coping skills to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues and trauma.
(833) 579-7674 View (833) 579-7674

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
75% Optum
69% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.