Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Julia Green, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Julia Green
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
You may be feeling lonely, overwhelmed, or scared for yourself, your marriage, or your family. It may seem like your life is falling apart or you or your loved ones are constantly walking on egg shells. Its getting more difficult to keep it together for appearances or maybe its already past that point. You've tried just about everything you can think of to make your situation better but nothing has worked and things are getting worse. You may be hanging on by a thread, but you are not ready to give up hope.
You may be feeling lonely, overwhelmed, or scared for yourself, your marriage, or your family. It may seem like your life is falling apart or you or your loved ones are constantly walking on egg shells. Its getting more difficult to keep it together for appearances or maybe its already past that point. You've tried just about everything you can think of to make your situation better but nothing has worked and things are getting worse. You may be hanging on by a thread, but you are not ready to give up hope.
(380) 207-1308 View (380) 207-1308
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 Doug Bennett, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Doug Bennett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
(614) 682-2124 View (614) 682-2124
Photo of De’Aja Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
De’Aja Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Deaja Hines, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
(614) 683-4803 View (614) 683-4803
Photo of Dawn M Puster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Dawn M Puster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
(380) 201-9110 View (380) 201-9110
Photo of Peggy L Lucas, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Peggy L Lucas
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
(614) 689-3451 View (614) 689-3451
Photo of Allison Fagan, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Allison Fagan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
(614) 957-1280 View (614) 957-1280
Photo of Cassandra Tapia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Cassandra Tapia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
(380) 205-0144 View (380) 205-0144
Photo of Jenifer Sparks Schaffner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jenifer Sparks Schaffner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
I value compassion; we will work together in a non-judgmental, safe environment with active and honest communication. I am a therapist who is proactive and engaged; I believe in providing feedback and sharing my thoughts. I will work with you to identify your goals and help you achieve them.
I value compassion; we will work together in a non-judgmental, safe environment with active and honest communication. I am a therapist who is proactive and engaged; I believe in providing feedback and sharing my thoughts. I will work with you to identify your goals and help you achieve them.
(614) 845-6049 View (614) 845-6049
Photo of Eva Shinka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Eva Shinka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
(614) 418-6958 View (614) 418-6958
Photo of Ellen Papadeas, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Ellen Papadeas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
(380) 333-6794 View (380) 333-6794
Photo of Eric C Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Eric C Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
(614) 980-2290 View (614) 980-2290
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 Lisa Riddle, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Riddle
Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
(614) 660-5965 View (614) 660-5965
Photo of Mariah Walters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mariah Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Is your your life so f&*%^ up that you need a therapist to handle your trauma? Congratulations, you're an adult. I specialize in PTSD, working with first responders, correctional officers, firefighters, LGBTQ+, marital therapy and BWC. (I'm also the pied piper of teenage girls. ( It's a calling not a desire.) *Will accept child clients 12years or older. ) I take some insurances. UHC, OPTUM. (Jeez people, I can't do everything for you) Now introducing James Mehl, LSW ...specializing with children, PTSD, chronic pain, BWC and LGBTQ. . Jimmy private pay at 75/hr. Dr. Walters private pay at 250/hr. We do not accept Medicaid.
Is your your life so f&*%^ up that you need a therapist to handle your trauma? Congratulations, you're an adult. I specialize in PTSD, working with first responders, correctional officers, firefighters, LGBTQ+, marital therapy and BWC. (I'm also the pied piper of teenage girls. ( It's a calling not a desire.) *Will accept child clients 12years or older. ) I take some insurances. UHC, OPTUM. (Jeez people, I can't do everything for you) Now introducing James Mehl, LSW ...specializing with children, PTSD, chronic pain, BWC and LGBTQ. . Jimmy private pay at 75/hr. Dr. Walters private pay at 250/hr. We do not accept Medicaid.
(380) 212-3599 View (380) 212-3599
Photo of Roy McClelland Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Roy McClelland Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
(380) 201-9508 View (380) 201-9508
Photo of Contessa Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Contessa Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
(614) 963-3033 View (614) 963-3033
Photo of Tom Spangler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tom Spangler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience working with clients who suffer from a range of mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. I take an approach that involves meeting clients where they are. I learn about their stories and assess what the right path is for their needs and goals. Having a client who is open and receptive to therapy is all a therapist could and should ask for.
I have experience working with clients who suffer from a range of mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. I take an approach that involves meeting clients where they are. I learn about their stories and assess what the right path is for their needs and goals. Having a client who is open and receptive to therapy is all a therapist could and should ask for.
(380) 212-2219 View (380) 212-2219
Photo of Sharon Hawkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sharon Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW , LICDC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I'm not sure I have an ideal client. I believe in meeting a person where they are and moving forward from there. I feel people often come to therapy to help find the best version of themselves. I enjoy helping others find solutions to their problems, helping them identify their strengths, and deciding how to improve their weaknesses.
I'm not sure I have an ideal client. I believe in meeting a person where they are and moving forward from there. I feel people often come to therapy to help find the best version of themselves. I enjoy helping others find solutions to their problems, helping them identify their strengths, and deciding how to improve their weaknesses.
(380) 210-3436 View (380) 210-3436
Photo of Joel T Hardin, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Joel T Hardin
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
(614) 980-0460 View (614) 980-0460

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
75% Optum
70% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% 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.