Therapists in Franklin, TN

Photo of Annchristine Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Annchristine Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Often life can get overwhelming, and we can feel stuck. My passion is walking alongside of teens and adults as we sort through grief, loss, life changes, depression, anxiety, old wounds, or discovering your identity to find healing and clarity. I strive to create a safe, non judgmental environment and treat each client with respect and understanding. I also want to create a place where you can grow and begin resolving the issues that brought you into counseling. I tend to see counseling for each client as a journey, and my role is to encourage, guide, and help you develop the tools necessary to continue on your unique path.
Often life can get overwhelming, and we can feel stuck. My passion is walking alongside of teens and adults as we sort through grief, loss, life changes, depression, anxiety, old wounds, or discovering your identity to find healing and clarity. I strive to create a safe, non judgmental environment and treat each client with respect and understanding. I also want to create a place where you can grow and begin resolving the issues that brought you into counseling. I tend to see counseling for each client as a journey, and my role is to encourage, guide, and help you develop the tools necessary to continue on your unique path.
(615) 645-1545 View (615) 645-1545
Photo of Kimberly Shultz Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Kimberly Shultz Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
We now have immediate openings! Do you struggle with anxiety, overthinking or stress? Do you have unresolved past trauma or PTSD that interferes with your quality of life? If so, I can help! Starting therapy with a licensed clinician will help you regain control of your life, thoughts, and emotions. If you are concerned about cost, but still want quality treatment, we have 3 graduate level interns with immediate openings. Their sessions are typically $65.00, but they also have a sliding scale as low as $20. Call today to schedule your appointment! Visit our website kimberlyshultzcounseling.com to learn more.
We now have immediate openings! Do you struggle with anxiety, overthinking or stress? Do you have unresolved past trauma or PTSD that interferes with your quality of life? If so, I can help! Starting therapy with a licensed clinician will help you regain control of your life, thoughts, and emotions. If you are concerned about cost, but still want quality treatment, we have 3 graduate level interns with immediate openings. Their sessions are typically $65.00, but they also have a sliding scale as low as $20. Call today to schedule your appointment! Visit our website kimberlyshultzcounseling.com to learn more.
(931) 326-3346 View (931) 326-3346
Photo of Catherine Botes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Catherine Botes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
I help women who want to dig deep, heal past trauma, and do life differently than they've done before. You may have had some difficult life experiences or trauma you know you need to process but are unsure how to do so. You may feel overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions that do not seem to match the situation at hand. Maybe you have some direction in your life but still feel something is missing. Relationships may be a source of pain for you, though you desire to have deeper, more connected relationships. I would love to walk alongside and support you on your own unique journey of healing and transformation.
I help women who want to dig deep, heal past trauma, and do life differently than they've done before. You may have had some difficult life experiences or trauma you know you need to process but are unsure how to do so. You may feel overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions that do not seem to match the situation at hand. Maybe you have some direction in your life but still feel something is missing. Relationships may be a source of pain for you, though you desire to have deeper, more connected relationships. I would love to walk alongside and support you on your own unique journey of healing and transformation.
(615) 488-5064 View (615) 488-5064
Photo of Allison Battles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Allison Battles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
You hold a unique story. That story holds value and deserves to be told. I specialize in expressive art and play therapy techniques and I am honored to work with children, teens, adults and families. Most of my work focuses on serving the neurodivergent population and creating a wrap around service with other providers, but I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and life transitions. I also work directly with parents to provide educational advocacy and parenting strategies. I offer supervision for other counselors on their journey to LPC.
You hold a unique story. That story holds value and deserves to be told. I specialize in expressive art and play therapy techniques and I am honored to work with children, teens, adults and families. Most of my work focuses on serving the neurodivergent population and creating a wrap around service with other providers, but I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and life transitions. I also work directly with parents to provide educational advocacy and parenting strategies. I offer supervision for other counselors on their journey to LPC.
(615) 903-0448 View (615) 903-0448
Photo of Laura Leslie, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Franklin, TN
Laura Leslie
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Growing up in a military family, I sought a deep need for connection and affirmation, which I pursued through competitive sports and academics. It wasn’t until my early adulthood that I realized this deep need was a common thread with individuals across many backgrounds and cultures. I began to understand the value of the “wholeness” of a person rather than the perfection we are taught to run after. My desires for helping others continued with life experiences such as marrying at a young age, relocating to new cities, and becoming a new mother.
Growing up in a military family, I sought a deep need for connection and affirmation, which I pursued through competitive sports and academics. It wasn’t until my early adulthood that I realized this deep need was a common thread with individuals across many backgrounds and cultures. I began to understand the value of the “wholeness” of a person rather than the perfection we are taught to run after. My desires for helping others continued with life experiences such as marrying at a young age, relocating to new cities, and becoming a new mother.
(615) 903-8955 View (615) 903-8955
Photo of Shara L Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Shara L Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, MAEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Often life can bring us down, make us anxious, cause distress or create confusion. Many times, we manage on our own or with friends or family. Sometimes life "overflows” and even with a support system it’s difficult to manage! Are you feeling that "overflowing" feeling? It's difficult to decide if the issue you are facing requires counseling, but reaching out and asking the question is the first step to making a positive change. I work with you to develop a strong relationship, build trust, and create lasting change in your life..
Often life can bring us down, make us anxious, cause distress or create confusion. Many times, we manage on our own or with friends or family. Sometimes life "overflows” and even with a support system it’s difficult to manage! Are you feeling that "overflowing" feeling? It's difficult to decide if the issue you are facing requires counseling, but reaching out and asking the question is the first step to making a positive change. I work with you to develop a strong relationship, build trust, and create lasting change in your life..
(615) 685-6812 View (615) 685-6812
Photo of Kyle M. Rigsby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Kyle M. Rigsby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I would love the chance to work with you on the areas of your life where you feel stuck. Anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD (I use EMDR Therapy to treat this), performance issues (both athletically, and professionally), relational issues with family, spirituality issues, grief and loss are all areas in which I have experience. My primary job is to walk with you through the areas you are struggling in and support you all along the way. My greatest desire as a therapist is to see my clients healthy in every sense of the word. I am ready now to help you.
I would love the chance to work with you on the areas of your life where you feel stuck. Anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD (I use EMDR Therapy to treat this), performance issues (both athletically, and professionally), relational issues with family, spirituality issues, grief and loss are all areas in which I have experience. My primary job is to walk with you through the areas you are struggling in and support you all along the way. My greatest desire as a therapist is to see my clients healthy in every sense of the word. I am ready now to help you.
(615) 671-4847 View (615) 671-4847
Photo of A Different World Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
A Different World Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
(615) 240-2840 View (615) 240-2840
Photo of 9Paths, Counselor in Franklin, TN
9Paths
Counselor, LPCMHSP, NBCC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
The Center provides a safe place to discover the underpinnings of what may be preventing you from moving forward in life and experience healing. There can be a variety of life experiences that may hold you back: trauma, divorce, accidents, job loss, parenting issues, child behavior problems, blending families etc. Our hope is to help you to process, identify change and begin recovery. What you bring to the the Retreat Center is your transparency, trust, and desire to change and heal. The combination of both of us working together offers hope and change for your present and future.
The Center provides a safe place to discover the underpinnings of what may be preventing you from moving forward in life and experience healing. There can be a variety of life experiences that may hold you back: trauma, divorce, accidents, job loss, parenting issues, child behavior problems, blending families etc. Our hope is to help you to process, identify change and begin recovery. What you bring to the the Retreat Center is your transparency, trust, and desire to change and heal. The combination of both of us working together offers hope and change for your present and future.
View
Photo of Michelle Houk, LCSW Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin, TN
Michelle Houk, LCSW Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and families who have experienced trauma or are facing challenges and need some help to navigate the future. I have over 30 years working with children in the school setting, home based treatment and in a clinical office setting. My approach to counseling is to establish a trust based relationship where acceptance, honesty and collaboration help lead the client on the path to healing.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and families who have experienced trauma or are facing challenges and need some help to navigate the future. I have over 30 years working with children in the school setting, home based treatment and in a clinical office setting. My approach to counseling is to establish a trust based relationship where acceptance, honesty and collaboration help lead the client on the path to healing.
(615) 434-2429 View (615) 434-2429
Photo of Abigail Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin, TN
Abigail Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Do you find yourself overwhelmed by your anxiety, no matter what you do? Maybe you have been weighed down by depression. Or you want to heal from your past experiences but are struggling to find a way to move forward? You may be fed up with constantly feeling on edge, feeling unable to function in your daily life, or doubting your self-worth. You might not even remember a time where things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to feel joy again. You're ready to feel at peace with yourself. Most of all you're ready to face your future with a sense of hope.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed by your anxiety, no matter what you do? Maybe you have been weighed down by depression. Or you want to heal from your past experiences but are struggling to find a way to move forward? You may be fed up with constantly feeling on edge, feeling unable to function in your daily life, or doubting your self-worth. You might not even remember a time where things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to feel joy again. You're ready to feel at peace with yourself. Most of all you're ready to face your future with a sense of hope.
(629) 260-3481 View (629) 260-3481
Photo of Katie Meier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Katie Meier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
My greatest hope is to create a safe space where you feel seen, valued, and affirmed – we all need and deserve that support in our lives! During our time together, my goal is for you to gain a greater understanding of yourself, adaptive ways of thinking, and tangible coping tools to help you ride the waves of life. I work with young adults, teens, and children (ages 3 and up). I have a passion for supporting clients with anxiety, anger, emotional literacy and regulation, grief and loss, self-compassion, and self-esteem through individual and group counseling.
My greatest hope is to create a safe space where you feel seen, valued, and affirmed – we all need and deserve that support in our lives! During our time together, my goal is for you to gain a greater understanding of yourself, adaptive ways of thinking, and tangible coping tools to help you ride the waves of life. I work with young adults, teens, and children (ages 3 and up). I have a passion for supporting clients with anxiety, anger, emotional literacy and regulation, grief and loss, self-compassion, and self-esteem through individual and group counseling.
(615) 802-7442 View (615) 802-7442
Photo of Neela G Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Neela G Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Life transitions can be difficult to navigate on your own. Sometimes you need someone to talk to. Relationships, past traumatic experiences, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety all bring emotions that can be overwhelming. Over time, negative coping behaviors and destructive patterns may have developed and now stand in the way of your goals and development. As a therapist, Neela Johnson is focused on healing and personal growth.
Life transitions can be difficult to navigate on your own. Sometimes you need someone to talk to. Relationships, past traumatic experiences, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety all bring emotions that can be overwhelming. Over time, negative coping behaviors and destructive patterns may have developed and now stand in the way of your goals and development. As a therapist, Neela Johnson is focused on healing and personal growth.
(615) 805-5982 View (615) 805-5982
Photo of Cecilia C. Oaks Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Cecilia C. Oaks Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Accepting new clients and scheduling for Saturdays! EMDR trained. Please feel free to call or text me at 931.242.4204. I love working with children and adolescents! I'm taking on adults as well! In addition to talk-therapy, I implement games, puzzles, stories, music, art, and toys into therapy. Therapy should not be boring! My areas of working with clients include, but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, social skills, anger management, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, abuse, and trauma. My main modalities include TF-CBT, CBT, EMDR and behavior modification.
Accepting new clients and scheduling for Saturdays! EMDR trained. Please feel free to call or text me at 931.242.4204. I love working with children and adolescents! I'm taking on adults as well! In addition to talk-therapy, I implement games, puzzles, stories, music, art, and toys into therapy. Therapy should not be boring! My areas of working with clients include, but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, social skills, anger management, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, abuse, and trauma. My main modalities include TF-CBT, CBT, EMDR and behavior modification.
(615) 205-9734 View (615) 205-9734
Photo of Abigail Weatherly, Pre-Licensed Professional in Franklin, TN
Abigail Weatherly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I have the privilege to work with parents who want to support their child and their development through connection and understanding, preteens/teens who are navigating life changes as they grow up and want to build new skills, and children who are learning about themselves and the world without the tools to communicate their needs. I love being able to advocate for my clients to support them in achieving the goals they set for themselves.
I have the privilege to work with parents who want to support their child and their development through connection and understanding, preteens/teens who are navigating life changes as they grow up and want to build new skills, and children who are learning about themselves and the world without the tools to communicate their needs. I love being able to advocate for my clients to support them in achieving the goals they set for themselves.
(615) 488-5720 View (615) 488-5720
Photo of Christy G Buckner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Christy G Buckner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I work best with motivated adults and teens struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and/or life transitions. I help you increase your connection, clarity, meaning and happiness by offering hope and affirmative counseling tailored to your personal/cultural perspective. Clients of any culture, race, religion, socio-economic status or sexual orientation are welcome in my office.
I work best with motivated adults and teens struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and/or life transitions. I help you increase your connection, clarity, meaning and happiness by offering hope and affirmative counseling tailored to your personal/cultural perspective. Clients of any culture, race, religion, socio-economic status or sexual orientation are welcome in my office.
(615) 475-8456 View (615) 475-8456
Photo of Melissa Herb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin, TN
Melissa Herb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Healing, improving, achieving goals, and finding purpose in life are foremost in human thought. Developing your own tools and skills will improve your ability to be mindful, to regulate emotions, to tolerate distress, and to be effective in your relationships. Teaching these skills for the past 12 years has improved my own ability to navigate life's challenges. Learning these skills builds confidence, assurance of self, and opens alternatives to getting out of the immediate stuck pattern of thoughts and actions you find yourself in.
Healing, improving, achieving goals, and finding purpose in life are foremost in human thought. Developing your own tools and skills will improve your ability to be mindful, to regulate emotions, to tolerate distress, and to be effective in your relationships. Teaching these skills for the past 12 years has improved my own ability to navigate life's challenges. Learning these skills builds confidence, assurance of self, and opens alternatives to getting out of the immediate stuck pattern of thoughts and actions you find yourself in.
(615) 437-4210 View (615) 437-4210
Photo of Hunter Lawrence, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin, TN
Hunter Lawrence
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Addiction, loss, trauma, conflict…the story does not have to end there. It can move to recovery, acceptance, healing, and connection. Whether the troubles are in our relationships or inside us as individuals, I see counseling as a powerful process for mental and relational health. I have experienced first-hand the healing power of counseling in my own recovery from addiction. I want the same for my clients. I help my clients grow in self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love…how they view themselves in relation to their world and story
Addiction, loss, trauma, conflict…the story does not have to end there. It can move to recovery, acceptance, healing, and connection. Whether the troubles are in our relationships or inside us as individuals, I see counseling as a powerful process for mental and relational health. I have experienced first-hand the healing power of counseling in my own recovery from addiction. I want the same for my clients. I help my clients grow in self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love…how they view themselves in relation to their world and story
(615) 616-7577 View (615) 616-7577
Photo of Arise Counseling Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Arise Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
If you are feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, my services aim to introduce clarity, serenity, and self-motivation. I consider Counseling my passion and as my client it is my hope that you feel a sense of warmth, safety, and community as I walk alongside you on your journey. As a passionate LPC-MHSP, I have experience working with individuals overcoming; Trauma, depression, anxiety and panic attacks, sexual assault, grief/loss, divorce adjustment, addiction/recovery, spiritual identity issues, conflict resolution, individual relationship issues, self-esteem, identity work, and perfectionism.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, my services aim to introduce clarity, serenity, and self-motivation. I consider Counseling my passion and as my client it is my hope that you feel a sense of warmth, safety, and community as I walk alongside you on your journey. As a passionate LPC-MHSP, I have experience working with individuals overcoming; Trauma, depression, anxiety and panic attacks, sexual assault, grief/loss, divorce adjustment, addiction/recovery, spiritual identity issues, conflict resolution, individual relationship issues, self-esteem, identity work, and perfectionism.
(615) 398-6102 View (615) 398-6102
Photo of Travis Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin, TN
Travis Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
“THE Anger Management Guy in Nashville!” Author of "Navigate Anger" . Face and Video sessions available. Counseling for adult individuals. Over 20 years in private practice.
“THE Anger Management Guy in Nashville!” Author of "Navigate Anger" . Face and Video sessions available. Counseling for adult individuals. Over 20 years in private practice.
(615) 538-7111 View (615) 538-7111

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Franklin, TN

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Franklin, TN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Relationship Issues
84% Depression
75% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
66% Grief
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Cigna and Evernorth
60% Aetna
58% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Franklin, TN see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Franklin?

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.