Therapists in Buffalo Grove, IL

Photo of Audrey Grahame Raden, Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Audrey Grahame Raden
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
You're tossing and turning with your mind churning over What Ifs or moments that haunt. You feel stressed or overwhelmed; a sense of dread always lurking in the background. Maybe you're snapping at people or pushing them away. It might seem like everyone else is able to do things so much easier or better. Sometimes it seems like you're moving through thick fog. But it doesn't have to be this way.
You're tossing and turning with your mind churning over What Ifs or moments that haunt. You feel stressed or overwhelmed; a sense of dread always lurking in the background. Maybe you're snapping at people or pushing them away. It might seem like everyone else is able to do things so much easier or better. Sometimes it seems like you're moving through thick fog. But it doesn't have to be this way.
(224) 875-6536 View (224) 875-6536
Photo of Derek Conn, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Derek Conn
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Every goal starts somewhere. I'm looking to collaborate with you to form an individualized, goal-oriented treatment plan to help you get from where you are to where you want to be. I incorporate appropriate, empirically supported treatments to help you understand yourself and situation more fully. I want to provide you with skill sets to achieve your current goals, and also to empower you in future life challenges.
Every goal starts somewhere. I'm looking to collaborate with you to form an individualized, goal-oriented treatment plan to help you get from where you are to where you want to be. I incorporate appropriate, empirically supported treatments to help you understand yourself and situation more fully. I want to provide you with skill sets to achieve your current goals, and also to empower you in future life challenges.
(847) 595-5012 View (847) 595-5012
Photo of Kristin Moorhouse, Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Kristin Moorhouse
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Hi! I am Kristin. I guide clients to identify negative cycles that keep them stuck personally, relationally, and/or professionally. By developing a solid relationship with clients and using effective interventions, I help clients experience healing, growth, movement, and empowerment. I look forward to working with you!
Hi! I am Kristin. I guide clients to identify negative cycles that keep them stuck personally, relationally, and/or professionally. By developing a solid relationship with clients and using effective interventions, I help clients experience healing, growth, movement, and empowerment. I look forward to working with you!
(779) 223-1091 View (779) 223-1091
Photo of Allison Bisher-Fry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Allison Bisher-Fry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Sometimes it is hard to ask for help. During our lives, we all reach the point where the stress becomes too much. One way to address that is by finding a supportive person to help. I aim to be that supportive person for you. I have been working with children ranging from 7-17, parents, adults, and families since 2007. I have taken time to raise my own children. I recognize the stress of balancing family, work, and personal lives. It is my goal to help you develop your strengths and coping skills to navigate life when it feels like too much. I have experience in helping families navigate difficult parent/child interactions.
Sometimes it is hard to ask for help. During our lives, we all reach the point where the stress becomes too much. One way to address that is by finding a supportive person to help. I aim to be that supportive person for you. I have been working with children ranging from 7-17, parents, adults, and families since 2007. I have taken time to raise my own children. I recognize the stress of balancing family, work, and personal lives. It is my goal to help you develop your strengths and coping skills to navigate life when it feels like too much. I have experience in helping families navigate difficult parent/child interactions.
(224) 676-9800 x28 View (224) 676-9800 x28
Photo of Maria Shenkman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Maria Shenkman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Maria’s clinical focus includes emerging adults, children, adolescents and families. Her approach focuses on expanding self-awareness and facilitating change. She incorporates evidence based mindfulness practices as well as mainstream psychotherapy approaches. Additionally, she utilizes an experiential Game Consulting method. Her multicultural background and passion for integral psychology allows her to incorporate progressive methods that are tailored to meet the needs of clients from diverse backgrounds. Maria provides therapy in Russian and English.
Maria’s clinical focus includes emerging adults, children, adolescents and families. Her approach focuses on expanding self-awareness and facilitating change. She incorporates evidence based mindfulness practices as well as mainstream psychotherapy approaches. Additionally, she utilizes an experiential Game Consulting method. Her multicultural background and passion for integral psychology allows her to incorporate progressive methods that are tailored to meet the needs of clients from diverse backgrounds. Maria provides therapy in Russian and English.
(224) 501-9814 View (224) 501-9814
Photo of Charissa Simon-Wright, Pre-Licensed Professional in Buffalo Grove, IL
Charissa Simon-Wright
Pre-Licensed Professional, CADC, CODP-I, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Charissa Simon-Wright earned her MS in Psychology with a Specialization in Addictions from Perdue University. Charissa is currently a doctoral student enrolled at Walden University in pursuit of her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Health Psychology. Charissa has also obtained certifications as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), a Co-Occurring Disorder Professional (CODP-I), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
Charissa Simon-Wright earned her MS in Psychology with a Specialization in Addictions from Perdue University. Charissa is currently a doctoral student enrolled at Walden University in pursuit of her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Health Psychology. Charissa has also obtained certifications as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), a Co-Occurring Disorder Professional (CODP-I), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
(847) 960-3858 View (847) 960-3858
Photo of Colin James Boland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Colin James Boland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Life can be challenging. Everyone wants to be heard, and it is important to have an outlet. It can be hard to reach out when in need of support, and it can be even harder to find the right therapist for you. When first meeting with a client I focus on building a therapeutic alliance. I want to know your interests and what's important to you. I understand that in order for someone to make change support and care need to be built through trust. Trust doesn't come easy, but with patience, it can be built. I aim to develop a strong bond with each of my clients. You are not alone, we will walk together on your healing journey.
Life can be challenging. Everyone wants to be heard, and it is important to have an outlet. It can be hard to reach out when in need of support, and it can be even harder to find the right therapist for you. When first meeting with a client I focus on building a therapeutic alliance. I want to know your interests and what's important to you. I understand that in order for someone to make change support and care need to be built through trust. Trust doesn't come easy, but with patience, it can be built. I aim to develop a strong bond with each of my clients. You are not alone, we will walk together on your healing journey.
(847) 908-5557 View (847) 908-5557
Photo of Marta Tamara Kromka-Brigagliano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Marta Tamara Kromka-Brigagliano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Marta Kromka-Brigagliano is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor, and certified case manager. While working with clients she utilizes a systemic approach that focuses on individual’s relationship with others, family of origin issues, personal history and relationship with self.
Marta Kromka-Brigagliano is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor, and certified case manager. While working with clients she utilizes a systemic approach that focuses on individual’s relationship with others, family of origin issues, personal history and relationship with self.
(847) 474-9468 View (847) 474-9468
Photo of Sonya Kontorovich, Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Sonya Kontorovich
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, frustrated and uncertain are common human experiences that can leave you disconnected from your best self. I help my clients bridge the gap between where they ARE and where they WANT TO BE by understanding their priorities through a collaborative identification of barriers, fears and hopes. We then design a treatment plan to develop insight about how internal thoughts and belief systems have evolved from unique life experiences and how they influence current interactions and behaviors. Effective strategies to cope with limitations are built upon a foundation of self-awareness.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, frustrated and uncertain are common human experiences that can leave you disconnected from your best self. I help my clients bridge the gap between where they ARE and where they WANT TO BE by understanding their priorities through a collaborative identification of barriers, fears and hopes. We then design a treatment plan to develop insight about how internal thoughts and belief systems have evolved from unique life experiences and how they influence current interactions and behaviors. Effective strategies to cope with limitations are built upon a foundation of self-awareness.
(847) 973-7321 View (847) 973-7321
Photo of Christa Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Christa Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Since 2003, I have been working with adolescents and adults in a variety of contexts. I am passionate about guiding clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem, complicated grief, and family of origin issues toward healing and freedom. I enjoy teaching individuals how to recognize and release themselves from repeating destructive coping patterns in their current relationships. I am trained in EMDR and utilize this and other strategies to help clients get unstuck from a variety of issues including PTSD, other trauma reactions, and anxiety issues including phobias.
Since 2003, I have been working with adolescents and adults in a variety of contexts. I am passionate about guiding clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem, complicated grief, and family of origin issues toward healing and freedom. I enjoy teaching individuals how to recognize and release themselves from repeating destructive coping patterns in their current relationships. I am trained in EMDR and utilize this and other strategies to help clients get unstuck from a variety of issues including PTSD, other trauma reactions, and anxiety issues including phobias.
(224) 479-1512 View (224) 479-1512
Photo of OMNI in Buffalo Grove, IL
OMNI
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
OMNI offers transformative counseling services for individuals, youth, families, and couples in our local communities. Our mission is to help clients create lifelong change for better and brighter futures through research-based and compassionate counseling. Services are offered in both 1-on-1 and group settings. Some services may be available in Spanish. Some services offered virtually. We are dedicated to accessibility and accept all Medicaid managed insurance plans.
OMNI offers transformative counseling services for individuals, youth, families, and couples in our local communities. Our mission is to help clients create lifelong change for better and brighter futures through research-based and compassionate counseling. Services are offered in both 1-on-1 and group settings. Some services may be available in Spanish. Some services offered virtually. We are dedicated to accessibility and accept all Medicaid managed insurance plans.
(847) 558-1302 View (847) 558-1302
Photo of Ann Choh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Ann Choh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, it is my passion to engage with individuals and couples in their personal journeys. I aim to support them in finding their voice and strength, ultimately achieving deeper understanding and freedom to fulfill their greatest potential. I offer a trusting and safe environment where I apply a holistic approach to help my clients move towards a healthy and fulfilling life. Through empathy and trust, I deliver client-centered counseling to address depression, anxiety, grief, conflict, life transitions, and issues with self-esteem, gender, and cultural identity.
As a therapist, it is my passion to engage with individuals and couples in their personal journeys. I aim to support them in finding their voice and strength, ultimately achieving deeper understanding and freedom to fulfill their greatest potential. I offer a trusting and safe environment where I apply a holistic approach to help my clients move towards a healthy and fulfilling life. Through empathy and trust, I deliver client-centered counseling to address depression, anxiety, grief, conflict, life transitions, and issues with self-esteem, gender, and cultural identity.
(847) 750-5964 View (847) 750-5964
Photo of Ann S Matus, Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Ann S Matus
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
My approach to therapy is cognitive-behavioral based and I aim to guide you in recognizing how your thoughts, feelings and actions are interconnected. I focus on identifying these thought distortions and behaviors that are barriers to a healthy life. I aim to build an authentic non-judgmental therapeutic relationship rooted in empathy, hope, and support and I will strive to honor who you are as an individual. The populations I have worked with include adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
My approach to therapy is cognitive-behavioral based and I aim to guide you in recognizing how your thoughts, feelings and actions are interconnected. I focus on identifying these thought distortions and behaviors that are barriers to a healthy life. I aim to build an authentic non-judgmental therapeutic relationship rooted in empathy, hope, and support and I will strive to honor who you are as an individual. The populations I have worked with include adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
(331) 241-6194 View (331) 241-6194
Photo of Brian McKenna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Brian McKenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Brian McKenna helps individuals and families gain skills for life so they can achieve a healthy level of functioning, renewed hope, and happiness in their lives. His collaborative approach involves other essential relationships and resources to optimize outcomes, fostering a strong therapeutic alliance between himself and the individual. These two strategies are the most important factors to change and healing. Brian inspires and motivates people to become healthier, happier and more connected in their relationships, as seen in his Tedx Talk which can be found on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEGV7Dpxta4
Brian McKenna helps individuals and families gain skills for life so they can achieve a healthy level of functioning, renewed hope, and happiness in their lives. His collaborative approach involves other essential relationships and resources to optimize outcomes, fostering a strong therapeutic alliance between himself and the individual. These two strategies are the most important factors to change and healing. Brian inspires and motivates people to become healthier, happier and more connected in their relationships, as seen in his Tedx Talk which can be found on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEGV7Dpxta4
(847) 353-1652 View (847) 353-1652
Photo of Shayna Friedman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buffalo Grove, IL
Shayna Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Hello! I work from a solution-focused, strengths-based, collaborative therapeutic approach. My approach involves setting clear goals at the beginning of treatment, and helping you find the solutions that work best to create the positive change that you want to see in your life. As a counselor, my mission is to implement a comfortable space, support, strength, and guidance for individuals, couples, and families to process through emotions and foster growth, as well as advocating for and providing a voice for children. I believe that through fostering support, empowerment and healing, the life you want to live is always possible.
Hello! I work from a solution-focused, strengths-based, collaborative therapeutic approach. My approach involves setting clear goals at the beginning of treatment, and helping you find the solutions that work best to create the positive change that you want to see in your life. As a counselor, my mission is to implement a comfortable space, support, strength, and guidance for individuals, couples, and families to process through emotions and foster growth, as well as advocating for and providing a voice for children. I believe that through fostering support, empowerment and healing, the life you want to live is always possible.
(847) 321-7561 View (847) 321-7561
Photo of Abby Watel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Abby Watel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
I am a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of experience working in community mental health, hospital, child welfare, and private practice settings; I have both direct practice and supervisory experience. I currently enjoy dividing my caseload between working with children, adolescents, parents and families and working with individual adults and couples. I believe in helping people of all ages to continue learning and developing throughout their lives. I use play therapy with young children; I use behavioral and solution focused treatment with all clients.; for adults and adolescents more insight oriented approaches are available.
I am a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of experience working in community mental health, hospital, child welfare, and private practice settings; I have both direct practice and supervisory experience. I currently enjoy dividing my caseload between working with children, adolescents, parents and families and working with individual adults and couples. I believe in helping people of all ages to continue learning and developing throughout their lives. I use play therapy with young children; I use behavioral and solution focused treatment with all clients.; for adults and adolescents more insight oriented approaches are available.
(847) 920-7810 x134 View (847) 920-7810 x134
Photo of Gina Mandell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Gina Mandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
With over 20 years of clinical experience, my practice is currently focused on working with older adolescents and adults struggling with a wide variety of issues such as anxiety, depressed mood, life transitions and life stressors, family and relationship issues, and more. My passion lies in understanding the complexities of the human mind and helping individuals navigate their emotional struggles. I am committed to providing compassionate and effective care within a supportive environment. My goal is to assist clients in making connections leading to improved outlook, reduced stress and achieving balance.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, my practice is currently focused on working with older adolescents and adults struggling with a wide variety of issues such as anxiety, depressed mood, life transitions and life stressors, family and relationship issues, and more. My passion lies in understanding the complexities of the human mind and helping individuals navigate their emotional struggles. I am committed to providing compassionate and effective care within a supportive environment. My goal is to assist clients in making connections leading to improved outlook, reduced stress and achieving balance.
(847) 447-2798 View (847) 447-2798
Pauline Bazianos Gubbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
When you call me, it is the beginning of a collaborative process where we explore how to get you feeling more capable and hopeful to face life's challenges. I support new and not so new parents who are facing the transitions to parenthood. I have also helped many face infertility, grieve the loss of a pregnancy as well as face the many challenges that come with having a traumatic birth or special needs child. I am well versed in the adoption process and supporting the needs of adoptive families. I counsel adults to face the challenges of work, marriage, divorce and parenting that can trigger feelings of depression and anxiety.
When you call me, it is the beginning of a collaborative process where we explore how to get you feeling more capable and hopeful to face life's challenges. I support new and not so new parents who are facing the transitions to parenthood. I have also helped many face infertility, grieve the loss of a pregnancy as well as face the many challenges that come with having a traumatic birth or special needs child. I am well versed in the adoption process and supporting the needs of adoptive families. I counsel adults to face the challenges of work, marriage, divorce and parenting that can trigger feelings of depression and anxiety.
(847) 920-7424 View (847) 920-7424
Photo of David Carr, Psychologist in Buffalo Grove, IL
David Carr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
We all experience difficult emotions throughout the course of our lives. Pain, of all kinds, is a part of the human experience. Significant problems arise when pain turns into suffering. I believe by changing the way we view ourselves and view the world, we can alleviate suffering. My goal in therapy is to create a space for you to explore new ways of experiencing life's most difficult emotions.
We all experience difficult emotions throughout the course of our lives. Pain, of all kinds, is a part of the human experience. Significant problems arise when pain turns into suffering. I believe by changing the way we view ourselves and view the world, we can alleviate suffering. My goal in therapy is to create a space for you to explore new ways of experiencing life's most difficult emotions.
(847) 453-3523 View (847) 453-3523
Photo of Megan Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buffalo Grove, IL
Megan Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
I love working with teens and adults with ADHD and neurodivergence. If you’ve ever felt different, or that you don’t fit in…you fit here. I tend to lean towards a more accessible, easy-going approach when helping clients work towards goals important to their journey. I find that bringing humor to the session lends to a more comfortable therapeutic environment. While identifying goals can often be challenging, My aim is to help clients identify strengths and learn the skills needed to make positive changes in their lives.
I love working with teens and adults with ADHD and neurodivergence. If you’ve ever felt different, or that you don’t fit in…you fit here. I tend to lean towards a more accessible, easy-going approach when helping clients work towards goals important to their journey. I find that bringing humor to the session lends to a more comfortable therapeutic environment. While identifying goals can often be challenging, My aim is to help clients identify strengths and learn the skills needed to make positive changes in their lives.
(224) 676-9800 x25 View (224) 676-9800 x25

See more therapy options for Buffalo Grove

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Buffalo Grove, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Buffalo Grove, IL who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
95% Depression
88% Self Esteem
86% Relationship Issues
78% Stress
76% Coping Skills
73% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
61% Aetna
57% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Buffalo Grove, IL see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Buffalo Grove?

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.