Therapists in Barrington, IL

Photo of Kathleen Friddle, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Kathleen Friddle
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I have worked with a variety of populations and mental health issues as I come from a community mental health background. I have worked with DCFS families in social services agencies as well as residential treatment centers for adolescents. I have a strong background in trauma and an understanding of how attachment and trauma can affect all aspects of life. I am warm, energetic, and skilled in helping you with your challenges.
I have worked with a variety of populations and mental health issues as I come from a community mental health background. I have worked with DCFS families in social services agencies as well as residential treatment centers for adolescents. I have a strong background in trauma and an understanding of how attachment and trauma can affect all aspects of life. I am warm, energetic, and skilled in helping you with your challenges.
(847) 906-2424 View (847) 906-2424
Photo of Krystyna Elmer, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Krystyna Elmer
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Hellen Keller wrote: "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it." My role as a therapist is to assist my clients in identifying the source of their suffering and build on personal strengths so that joy can once again be experienced. I believe that creating a respectful, honest and open relationship in which one can self-reflect and identify these strengths is the foundation of effective therapy. Through my experiences with diverse populations, I have also grown to appreciate how a mixture of sense of humor, common sense, compassion and competence can facilitate personal growth
Hellen Keller wrote: "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it." My role as a therapist is to assist my clients in identifying the source of their suffering and build on personal strengths so that joy can once again be experienced. I believe that creating a respectful, honest and open relationship in which one can self-reflect and identify these strengths is the foundation of effective therapy. Through my experiences with diverse populations, I have also grown to appreciate how a mixture of sense of humor, common sense, compassion and competence can facilitate personal growth
(224) 385-0247 x5 View (224) 385-0247 x5
Photo of Jason Reynolds, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Jason Reynolds
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Do you find yourself feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to go forward with your life? Are you dealing with intense feelings of frustration, disappointment, and distress? Left unaddressed, these feelings can accumulate and contribute to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy can be a welcome respite to assess the situation, get support, and move towards a more adaptive response to life's challenges.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to go forward with your life? Are you dealing with intense feelings of frustration, disappointment, and distress? Left unaddressed, these feelings can accumulate and contribute to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy can be a welcome respite to assess the situation, get support, and move towards a more adaptive response to life's challenges.
(224) 268-1441 View (224) 268-1441
Photo of Jessica L Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Jessica L Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Offering Evening and Weekend Sessions! Hello there! I'm Jessica, a licensed social worker with a deep passion for supporting new parents on their journey to cultivating the lives they desire for themselves and their families. My mission is to create a safe space where parents, parents-to-be, and those navigating fertility challenges can freely explore their emotions, fears, and aspirations, while receiving the support they need to thrive.
Offering Evening and Weekend Sessions! Hello there! I'm Jessica, a licensed social worker with a deep passion for supporting new parents on their journey to cultivating the lives they desire for themselves and their families. My mission is to create a safe space where parents, parents-to-be, and those navigating fertility challenges can freely explore their emotions, fears, and aspirations, while receiving the support they need to thrive.
(224) 225-7812 View (224) 225-7812
Photo of Jennifer O'Connell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Jennifer O'Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Is your anxiety or depression holding you back from living the life you imagine for yourself? Do you feel consumed by negative thoughts or intense emotions? We all feel distressed, helpless and could benefit from some extra support at some point in our lives. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or beginning to work with a new therapist, it can feel overwhelming. I'm here to walk alongside to help you through it. The step you are taking today is often the most difficult part, but I am here for you!
Is your anxiety or depression holding you back from living the life you imagine for yourself? Do you feel consumed by negative thoughts or intense emotions? We all feel distressed, helpless and could benefit from some extra support at some point in our lives. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or beginning to work with a new therapist, it can feel overwhelming. I'm here to walk alongside to help you through it. The step you are taking today is often the most difficult part, but I am here for you!
(773) 345-6577 View (773) 345-6577
Photo of Bianca Gambino, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Bianca Gambino
Counselor, LCPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
**Currently providing virtual sessions for all Medicaid plans** Life does not always go as planned especially when our life seems overwhelming, stressful, or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work to identify your strengths and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals. My goal is to provide a sincere, thoughtful, and safe environment where my clients can process their feelings and increase self-awareness, confidence, and learn new coping skills. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, depression, addiction, or finding balance in your life, I am able to help.
**Currently providing virtual sessions for all Medicaid plans** Life does not always go as planned especially when our life seems overwhelming, stressful, or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work to identify your strengths and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals. My goal is to provide a sincere, thoughtful, and safe environment where my clients can process their feelings and increase self-awareness, confidence, and learn new coping skills. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, depression, addiction, or finding balance in your life, I am able to help.
(224) 246-8157 View (224) 246-8157
Photo of Beth Kowieski, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Beth Kowieski
Counselor, MS, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
My ideal client is someone who is committed to working toward real and lasting change. Someone willing to learn that change does not just come from a behavioral switch. Real growth happens when a person's heart engages in the process and understands, internally, first. Each person needs to participate in their counseling; not just be an observer/consumer. I am committed to make each session a safe environment to learn the how and why of engaging in counseling; what it will require to achieve this; and then walk alongside with each client to make these empowering transformations.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to working toward real and lasting change. Someone willing to learn that change does not just come from a behavioral switch. Real growth happens when a person's heart engages in the process and understands, internally, first. Each person needs to participate in their counseling; not just be an observer/consumer. I am committed to make each session a safe environment to learn the how and why of engaging in counseling; what it will require to achieve this; and then walk alongside with each client to make these empowering transformations.
(630) 324-0946 View (630) 324-0946
Photo of Kids Spot Therapy, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Kids Spot Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning how to dance in the rain" ~ Vivian Greene. At Kids Spot Therapy, we aim to help kids, tweens & teens learn how to accept themselves and strive to overcome the adversity they face. Is your child irritable and nervous, worried about everything, unable to enjoy life and missing out? Are they sad, down and isolating themselves from family and friends? Is your child acting out their feelings through their behavior, unable to find the words to express how they feel? We can help with anxiety, depression, school refusal, separation anxiety, social anxiety and so much more
"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning how to dance in the rain" ~ Vivian Greene. At Kids Spot Therapy, we aim to help kids, tweens & teens learn how to accept themselves and strive to overcome the adversity they face. Is your child irritable and nervous, worried about everything, unable to enjoy life and missing out? Are they sad, down and isolating themselves from family and friends? Is your child acting out their feelings through their behavior, unable to find the words to express how they feel? We can help with anxiety, depression, school refusal, separation anxiety, social anxiety and so much more
(224) 970-2207 View (224) 970-2207
Photo of Lori A. Jensen, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Lori A. Jensen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
(847) 453-9513 View (847) 453-9513
Photo of Sally Secker (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.), Counselor in Barrington, IL
Sally Secker (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.)
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. Whether you are dealing with depression and anxiety, struggling with the effects of past trauma, coping with loss, or just dealing with life changes, I would love to help. I'm the owner of Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd. in Barrington, Illinois, and I am passionate about helping others navigate difficult times in their lives. I love to come alongside people to encourage and empower them to find hope and joy.
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. Whether you are dealing with depression and anxiety, struggling with the effects of past trauma, coping with loss, or just dealing with life changes, I would love to help. I'm the owner of Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd. in Barrington, Illinois, and I am passionate about helping others navigate difficult times in their lives. I love to come alongside people to encourage and empower them to find hope and joy.
(630) 948-4419 View (630) 948-4419
Photo of Jamie Gray, Pre-Licensed Professional in Barrington, IL
Jamie Gray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Waitlist for new clients
As a functional therapist, I am passionate about journeying with clients as they return to their authentic Self. The work I focus on in the counseling room is root-cause or “trauma-informed”, meaning together we will discover the moment(s) of harm that are still carried in your mind and body today. When overwhelm, stress, and trauma are unattended to, they can manifest as depression, anxiety, low-self esteem, and emotional dysregulation – even physical pain and disease. Sometimes it’s possible to pin-point the exact moment, while others are struggling to understand what has gotten them to “this place” – and that is okay!
As a functional therapist, I am passionate about journeying with clients as they return to their authentic Self. The work I focus on in the counseling room is root-cause or “trauma-informed”, meaning together we will discover the moment(s) of harm that are still carried in your mind and body today. When overwhelm, stress, and trauma are unattended to, they can manifest as depression, anxiety, low-self esteem, and emotional dysregulation – even physical pain and disease. Sometimes it’s possible to pin-point the exact moment, while others are struggling to understand what has gotten them to “this place” – and that is okay!
(224) 232-5464 View (224) 232-5464
Photo of Kary R. Miller, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Kary R. Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
Every individual has the skill, heart, and capability to engage in their own healing. My commitment is to walk with you in your counseling process and offer respect, safety, and acceptance in every way possible. I offer individual counseling to help clients recover from any pressing issues that affect your ability to grow and thrive. These issues may include depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, shame, sexual addictions, poor self-esteem, grief or career direction. I have been immersed in working with men's issues for over 20 years. I also support first responders struggling with PTSD.
(224) 619-3843 View (224) 619-3843
Photo of James Garrett LCPC, Counselor in Barrington, IL
James Garrett LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
You may be feeling sad, worried, frustrated, angry, confused, stressed, or simply feeling down on yourself. You may be experiencing difficulties in important relationships or simply feeling that a relationship is not meeting your needs. Maybe you're here out of concern for a family member or friend who could benefit from the help of a therapist. Or maybe your reason for being here is entirely different. My name is Jim Garrett, and I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor and psychotherapist. I help people with a wide range of concerns, and I'll be very happy to help you.
You may be feeling sad, worried, frustrated, angry, confused, stressed, or simply feeling down on yourself. You may be experiencing difficulties in important relationships or simply feeling that a relationship is not meeting your needs. Maybe you're here out of concern for a family member or friend who could benefit from the help of a therapist. Or maybe your reason for being here is entirely different. My name is Jim Garrett, and I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor and psychotherapist. I help people with a wide range of concerns, and I'll be very happy to help you.
(847) 382-0600 View (847) 382-0600
Photo of Leida Woodham, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Leida Woodham
Counselor, MA, CRC, LCPC, AMFT
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
(224) 212-1309 x8 View (224) 212-1309 x8
Photo of Chloe Vassmer, LPC Intern in Barrington, IL
Chloe Vassmer
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Hi, I'm Chloe! Having a former career in education has taught me that there is always something new to discover. Together, we will explore parts of your Self that are impacting your daily life. That could look like anxiety, family conflict, depression, or self-esteem, to name a few. You can expect a warm and non-judgmental atmosphere, with a little bit of humor and a lot of empathy.
Hi, I'm Chloe! Having a former career in education has taught me that there is always something new to discover. Together, we will explore parts of your Self that are impacting your daily life. That could look like anxiety, family conflict, depression, or self-esteem, to name a few. You can expect a warm and non-judgmental atmosphere, with a little bit of humor and a lot of empathy.
(224) 434-3730 View (224) 434-3730
Photo of Julia Berg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Julia Berg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Life can be complex and ever changing bringing us moments that impact our human experience. These human experiences can be anywhere between being joyful, beautiful, challenging, mediocre, and overwhelming. Counseling is a unique process that can help you find meaning within these experiences and give you a space where your story is heard. As a trauma-informed counselor, I work to create a safe and affirming atmosphere where clients feel understood and fully accepted for who they are. I believe that an authentic and empathic therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial attributes to healing and growth.
Life can be complex and ever changing bringing us moments that impact our human experience. These human experiences can be anywhere between being joyful, beautiful, challenging, mediocre, and overwhelming. Counseling is a unique process that can help you find meaning within these experiences and give you a space where your story is heard. As a trauma-informed counselor, I work to create a safe and affirming atmosphere where clients feel understood and fully accepted for who they are. I believe that an authentic and empathic therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial attributes to healing and growth.
(224) 218-5134 View (224) 218-5134
Photo of Catherine Ness, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Catherine Ness
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
(224) 334-3976 x2 View (224) 334-3976 x2
Photo of Linsie Gilman, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Linsie Gilman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
All of us can lose focus from time to time on the things that matter most and become caught up in the minutiae of everyday life. This lack of direction can lead to feeling stuck or lost, and unsure where to start in reclaiming our lives and getting back to our paths. Being able to rediscover and focus on our individual goals helps restore balance, generates a sense of purpose, and brings back a sense of confidence and happiness.
All of us can lose focus from time to time on the things that matter most and become caught up in the minutiae of everyday life. This lack of direction can lead to feeling stuck or lost, and unsure where to start in reclaiming our lives and getting back to our paths. Being able to rediscover and focus on our individual goals helps restore balance, generates a sense of purpose, and brings back a sense of confidence and happiness.
(224) 302-6234 View (224) 302-6234
Photo of Cheri Spiczka, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Cheri Spiczka
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
We all have the power to create happiness in our life. Sometimes we just need help figuring out how to overcome the obstacles that keep us from getting there. Nothing brings me greater joy than helping my clients experience personal and social empowerment and finding contentment in their life. Therapy doesn't start and end after our session, it moves beyond the safety of my office, so they can practice the skills they learn and feel successful managing their life independent of the therapy. I am a warm, accepting and passionate therapist, dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier lives.
We all have the power to create happiness in our life. Sometimes we just need help figuring out how to overcome the obstacles that keep us from getting there. Nothing brings me greater joy than helping my clients experience personal and social empowerment and finding contentment in their life. Therapy doesn't start and end after our session, it moves beyond the safety of my office, so they can practice the skills they learn and feel successful managing their life independent of the therapy. I am a warm, accepting and passionate therapist, dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier lives.
(847) 513-9542 View (847) 513-9542
Photo of Marni Naleway in Barrington, IL
Marni Naleway
MA
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
My clients struggle with navigating internal politics at work, workplace bullying and anxiety, feeling trapped in an unfulfilling career, experiencing write-ups, termination(s), or performance improvement plans (PIPs), lack of self-belief or self-worth, negative relationships with money, and burnout and exhaustion. I also have clients that struggle with organizing, hoarding, and the anxiety that comes along with the attachment we place on our physical things.
My clients struggle with navigating internal politics at work, workplace bullying and anxiety, feeling trapped in an unfulfilling career, experiencing write-ups, termination(s), or performance improvement plans (PIPs), lack of self-belief or self-worth, negative relationships with money, and burnout and exhaustion. I also have clients that struggle with organizing, hoarding, and the anxiety that comes along with the attachment we place on our physical things.
(224) 332-3226 View (224) 332-3226

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Barrington, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Barrington, IL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
70% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
64% Stress

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Aetna
54% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Barrington, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Barrington?

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.