Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Hadas Moalem, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Hadas Moalem
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
I am honored to walk alongside you on this part of your journey. Seeking help takes courage and I commend each and every client for taking this first step. Those struggling with a harsh inner critic, attachment issues, and existential anxiety would work well with me. I am also interested in how the past is affecting the present. Through various body-centered offerings, I will often bring the experience of therapy into the here and now. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and invite ongoing feedback into the therapy room.
I am honored to walk alongside you on this part of your journey. Seeking help takes courage and I commend each and every client for taking this first step. Those struggling with a harsh inner critic, attachment issues, and existential anxiety would work well with me. I am also interested in how the past is affecting the present. Through various body-centered offerings, I will often bring the experience of therapy into the here and now. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and invite ongoing feedback into the therapy room.
(503) 506-4186 View (503) 506-4186
Photo of Dr. Jae P. Douglas in Portland, OR
Dr. Jae P. Douglas
LMSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Jae Douglas is a social worker in Portland OR, where she works with adults of all ages. Dr. Douglas is particularly passionate about working with people experiencing or contemplating major life changes due to health, relationship or professional challenges. Many of her clients are facing decisions in the context of the loss of the familiar. Her style is warm, thoughtful, active and engaging. She supports and guides her clients in exploring how their life experience, skills, strengths and insights can be brought to bear on their current situation so as to find and move authentically and positively forward.
Jae Douglas is a social worker in Portland OR, where she works with adults of all ages. Dr. Douglas is particularly passionate about working with people experiencing or contemplating major life changes due to health, relationship or professional challenges. Many of her clients are facing decisions in the context of the loss of the familiar. Her style is warm, thoughtful, active and engaging. She supports and guides her clients in exploring how their life experience, skills, strengths and insights can be brought to bear on their current situation so as to find and move authentically and positively forward.
(971) 251-9881 View (971) 251-9881
Photo of Dr. Phil Small, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Phil Small
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
You might be an excellent fit for my practice if you are currently navigating one of adulthood's many transitions, are experiencing chronic or acute anxiety or panic, or are affected by relationship issues, including family concerns. Throughout my training at top-tier programs, I have learned a range of evidence-based practices to help support individuals in their efforts to heal and grow.
You might be an excellent fit for my practice if you are currently navigating one of adulthood's many transitions, are experiencing chronic or acute anxiety or panic, or are affected by relationship issues, including family concerns. Throughout my training at top-tier programs, I have learned a range of evidence-based practices to help support individuals in their efforts to heal and grow.
(503) 647-4794 View (503) 647-4794
Photo of Mark Pechovnik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Mark Pechovnik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Clear, calm and non-judgmental awareness of thoughts, emotions and physical presence are the foundations of a mindful approach to healing. As a clinician, I place great emphasis on creating a trusting environment where the mindful exploration of one's life, both today and in the past, can take place with ease and comfort and so we can work together to uncover the places where life seems stuck and unfulfilling or downright painful. Through the skillful means of multiple therapeutic tools, we will untangle your old habit patterns - whether they be old stories, emotional baggage, repetitive relational interactions or spiritual crisis.
Clear, calm and non-judgmental awareness of thoughts, emotions and physical presence are the foundations of a mindful approach to healing. As a clinician, I place great emphasis on creating a trusting environment where the mindful exploration of one's life, both today and in the past, can take place with ease and comfort and so we can work together to uncover the places where life seems stuck and unfulfilling or downright painful. Through the skillful means of multiple therapeutic tools, we will untangle your old habit patterns - whether they be old stories, emotional baggage, repetitive relational interactions or spiritual crisis.
(503) 567-6205 View (503) 567-6205
Photo of Silvia Gozzini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Silvia Gozzini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I once saw the term "Survival of the Attached"- indeed, no person is an island, we all live in realtionship to others and our partner/spouse/co-parent can be the one person who is most upsetting to us and the one we can experience the deepest healing with. You deserve a secure, thriving, joyful relationship, one were you know exactly how to care for each other! I welcome folks from all walks of life and social locations. I specialize in transnationals: expats, mixed- citizenship status couples/families, "home" seekers, and those straddling many cultures.
I once saw the term "Survival of the Attached"- indeed, no person is an island, we all live in realtionship to others and our partner/spouse/co-parent can be the one person who is most upsetting to us and the one we can experience the deepest healing with. You deserve a secure, thriving, joyful relationship, one were you know exactly how to care for each other! I welcome folks from all walks of life and social locations. I specialize in transnationals: expats, mixed- citizenship status couples/families, "home" seekers, and those straddling many cultures.
(503) 966-3845 View (503) 966-3845
Photo of Stacey Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Stacey Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
*Currently Full, waitlist available* Experiencing trauma/painful events at any age may cause us to feel overwhelmed, unsure, self-critical, anxious, or hopeless. These feelings can then create difficulties in managing our behaviors, our thoughts, and our relationships. I know many of us have tried for years to figure things out on our own and that seeking counseling takes great courage. I respect and honor the strength that clients bring into my office. Together, we can work to move beyond learned responses and toward healing - where you can develop self-regulation skills, improve mood, decrease anxiety, and build self-esteem.
*Currently Full, waitlist available* Experiencing trauma/painful events at any age may cause us to feel overwhelmed, unsure, self-critical, anxious, or hopeless. These feelings can then create difficulties in managing our behaviors, our thoughts, and our relationships. I know many of us have tried for years to figure things out on our own and that seeking counseling takes great courage. I respect and honor the strength that clients bring into my office. Together, we can work to move beyond learned responses and toward healing - where you can develop self-regulation skills, improve mood, decrease anxiety, and build self-esteem.
(971) 340-4798 View (971) 340-4798
Photo of Laura Marie Separa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Laura Marie Separa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Establishing a sense of wholeness and direction in our lives is often revealed once obstacles are known and cleared. This process of self discovery is far more potent and transformational when working with a therapist who can help navigate these unfamiliar places. My practice is largely informed by the personal experience of profound grief. Journeying through these difficult waters allows me to uniquely empathize and assist my clients through life struggles and losses.
Establishing a sense of wholeness and direction in our lives is often revealed once obstacles are known and cleared. This process of self discovery is far more potent and transformational when working with a therapist who can help navigate these unfamiliar places. My practice is largely informed by the personal experience of profound grief. Journeying through these difficult waters allows me to uniquely empathize and assist my clients through life struggles and losses.
(503) 443-9172 View (503) 443-9172
Photo of Rachel Kendall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Rachel Kendall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Too often we give our power away to letting a thought, a circumstance or interaction rob us of our peace. Have you even felt that your life is just "the way things are?" Although it is true we cannot always control external forces, we are capable of controlling how we respond to them which is a simple concept to grasp but takes intentionality to implement. The good news is the best version of yourself is already within you and as you learn to observe your experience without judgement, you will have the ability to offer greater acceptance and compassion for yourself and to others to create a ripple effect of positive change.
Too often we give our power away to letting a thought, a circumstance or interaction rob us of our peace. Have you even felt that your life is just "the way things are?" Although it is true we cannot always control external forces, we are capable of controlling how we respond to them which is a simple concept to grasp but takes intentionality to implement. The good news is the best version of yourself is already within you and as you learn to observe your experience without judgement, you will have the ability to offer greater acceptance and compassion for yourself and to others to create a ripple effect of positive change.
(971) 328-4741 View (971) 328-4741
Photo of Ronald L Attrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Ronald L Attrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CT, CIRT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Not accepting new clients
Let me listen to you & help you face problems, fears or pain so they do not continue to block your life. Depressed or anxious? Want deeper communication, intimacy & sexual connection with your spouse/partner? Find freedom to be your authentic self at home and work. LGBTQI affirming. Coping with trauma, grief or addictions? Safely integrate emotions/behaviors so you can meet your needs differently. Loss is pervasive in life. We encounter it thru unmet expectations, discrimination, transitions, illness, dying, death, growth, abuse & more. Find peace amidst life's changes. Discover meaning & joy. Live an AUTHENTIC LIFE!
Let me listen to you & help you face problems, fears or pain so they do not continue to block your life. Depressed or anxious? Want deeper communication, intimacy & sexual connection with your spouse/partner? Find freedom to be your authentic self at home and work. LGBTQI affirming. Coping with trauma, grief or addictions? Safely integrate emotions/behaviors so you can meet your needs differently. Loss is pervasive in life. We encounter it thru unmet expectations, discrimination, transitions, illness, dying, death, growth, abuse & more. Find peace amidst life's changes. Discover meaning & joy. Live an AUTHENTIC LIFE!
(971) 233-3740 View (971) 233-3740
Photo of Scott Vignola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Scott Vignola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, YT200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
We may feel ready for a new direction and unsure how to make meaningful change. Our habits may seem increasingly inadequate to meet our daily challenges. We may experience patterns of venting and withdrawing, or feel ashamed of our thoughts or desires. Your therapy can focus on providing the means for you to renegotiate your relationships. We also focus on bringing to light the implicit stories, narratives, and beliefs that form the foundation of your self-understanding and relationship with yourself, others, and the world.
We may feel ready for a new direction and unsure how to make meaningful change. Our habits may seem increasingly inadequate to meet our daily challenges. We may experience patterns of venting and withdrawing, or feel ashamed of our thoughts or desires. Your therapy can focus on providing the means for you to renegotiate your relationships. We also focus on bringing to light the implicit stories, narratives, and beliefs that form the foundation of your self-understanding and relationship with yourself, others, and the world.
(503) 455-7826 View (503) 455-7826
Photo of Dr. Michelle Millis Chappel in Portland, OR
Dr. Michelle Millis Chappel
Coach, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a life transition or stressed out in a job or lifestyle that doesn't fit who you are? I'm a Cognitive Psychologist and Life Coach with a Ph.D. from Princeton who has helped thousands of clients find their true callings and flourish in meaningful lives and careers using their greatest gifts. I create a safe environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, challenge limiting beliefs, discover your unique superpowers, and take practical steps to create a life that's true to you. Together we can make a plan to overcome work and life challenges and find a path that brings you more joy and success.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a life transition or stressed out in a job or lifestyle that doesn't fit who you are? I'm a Cognitive Psychologist and Life Coach with a Ph.D. from Princeton who has helped thousands of clients find their true callings and flourish in meaningful lives and careers using their greatest gifts. I create a safe environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, challenge limiting beliefs, discover your unique superpowers, and take practical steps to create a life that's true to you. Together we can make a plan to overcome work and life challenges and find a path that brings you more joy and success.
(503) 212-0207 View (503) 212-0207
Photo of Teagan Martel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Teagan Martel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
I believe in a therapeutic practice that puts you first. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities because I believe the treatment approach should be as diverse as the clients I work with.
I believe in a therapeutic practice that puts you first. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities because I believe the treatment approach should be as diverse as the clients I work with.
(503) 483-8458 View (503) 483-8458
Photo of Patrick Bartos, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Patrick Bartos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My aim is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore your problems without being judged. Once we have established a working relationship built on mutual trust, honesty, and respect, my goals are to help you better understand your problems, identify obstacles that have inhibited your capacity for growth, and support you in the process of making positive and often times difficult life changes. With the right therapist you should expect to feel more alive and authentic, be able to seek out and sustain more fulfilling relationships, and gain increased levels of self-acceptance and confidence.
My aim is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore your problems without being judged. Once we have established a working relationship built on mutual trust, honesty, and respect, my goals are to help you better understand your problems, identify obstacles that have inhibited your capacity for growth, and support you in the process of making positive and often times difficult life changes. With the right therapist you should expect to feel more alive and authentic, be able to seek out and sustain more fulfilling relationships, and gain increased levels of self-acceptance and confidence.
(971) 233-6275 View (971) 233-6275
Photo of Lance Crawford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lance Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! My name is Lance Crawford, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state(s) of Virginia and Oregon. I was born and raised in a small town in Virginia however, I am currently living in Portland, OR. I have been in the mental health field since 2013 and have been privileged enough to have worked with a range of populations including: young adults/college students, at-risk youth, LGBTQIA+, addiction/substance use, underserved minority groups, and community mental health.
Welcome to my practice! My name is Lance Crawford, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state(s) of Virginia and Oregon. I was born and raised in a small town in Virginia however, I am currently living in Portland, OR. I have been in the mental health field since 2013 and have been privileged enough to have worked with a range of populations including: young adults/college students, at-risk youth, LGBTQIA+, addiction/substance use, underserved minority groups, and community mental health.
(971) 251-1849 View (971) 251-1849
Photo of Couples-Inc, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Couples-Inc
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We offer Couples Fundamentals Workshops and resources for couples. We are two experienced therapists in Portland, Oregon who are passionate about helping couples learn how to create their best relationship. We offer intimate and informative workshops with direct and active support to help couples create better communication and forge a better connection. Also we each offer couples therapy within our private practices.
We offer Couples Fundamentals Workshops and resources for couples. We are two experienced therapists in Portland, Oregon who are passionate about helping couples learn how to create their best relationship. We offer intimate and informative workshops with direct and active support to help couples create better communication and forge a better connection. Also we each offer couples therapy within our private practices.
(971) 252-7303 View (971) 252-7303
Photo of Sophia Jarvis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Sophia Jarvis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Hi there, welcome to a therapy journey that honors all parts of your experience – your stories, your struggles, your strengths, and your dreams. I'm here to walk alongside you as you explore the unique tapestry of your identities, embracing all the beautiful, messy, and complex parts of who you are. Folks I'm passionate about working with include those who paint with their own palette: LBBTQIA+, consensually nonmonogamous, kinky, sex workers, neurodivergent, seeking your own flavor of meaning/spirituality. If you don't see yourself in those descriptions, you are welcome too!
Hi there, welcome to a therapy journey that honors all parts of your experience – your stories, your struggles, your strengths, and your dreams. I'm here to walk alongside you as you explore the unique tapestry of your identities, embracing all the beautiful, messy, and complex parts of who you are. Folks I'm passionate about working with include those who paint with their own palette: LBBTQIA+, consensually nonmonogamous, kinky, sex workers, neurodivergent, seeking your own flavor of meaning/spirituality. If you don't see yourself in those descriptions, you are welcome too!
View
Photo of Andree Cannon-Fleming, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Andree Cannon-Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a safe, caring, non-judgmental, and respectful place to address concerns, challenges, and transitions that occur in life. I believe that counseling is a healing process that encourages self-acceptance and connection with others. My approach is systemic, collaborative, and client-directed. From this approach, you are respected as the expert on you while I help guide you from my knowledge of the therapy process. I believe that all people have inherent value and deserve dignity and respect. When provided with a caring and accepting environment, people access their strengths and resources for greater resilience and wellness.
I provide a safe, caring, non-judgmental, and respectful place to address concerns, challenges, and transitions that occur in life. I believe that counseling is a healing process that encourages self-acceptance and connection with others. My approach is systemic, collaborative, and client-directed. From this approach, you are respected as the expert on you while I help guide you from my knowledge of the therapy process. I believe that all people have inherent value and deserve dignity and respect. When provided with a caring and accepting environment, people access their strengths and resources for greater resilience and wellness.
(503) 461-5170 View (503) 461-5170
Photo of Myles Buchanan, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Myles Buchanan
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
It's not about forcing yourself to change, but rather accepting yourself as you are, and then exploring. I can help you do this. I support people experiencing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, as they rediscover their own powerful wisdom and learn to trust themselves. In particular, I often support people in building self-esteem, overcoming social anxiety, creating stronger boundaries, creating the relationships they want, and giving themselves permission to be who they truly are.
It's not about forcing yourself to change, but rather accepting yourself as you are, and then exploring. I can help you do this. I support people experiencing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, as they rediscover their own powerful wisdom and learn to trust themselves. In particular, I often support people in building self-esteem, overcoming social anxiety, creating stronger boundaries, creating the relationships they want, and giving themselves permission to be who they truly are.
(503) 852-9077 View (503) 852-9077
Photo of Embodied Relational Life Therapy Portland (RLT), Psychologist in Portland, OR
Embodied Relational Life Therapy Portland (RLT)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
In couples counseling, Kerry and Banjo both work from the Relational Life Therapy (RLT) model, as taught by Terry Real. We have been immersed in this valuable framework for years, engaging it both professionally and personally, and are currently in the final stages of RLT certification. We realize that by being in relationship with ourselves and others in a way that is accountable, empathetic, and vulnerable, we are able to flourish as partners, parents, and professionals. We hope to help you do the same in your relational life.
In couples counseling, Kerry and Banjo both work from the Relational Life Therapy (RLT) model, as taught by Terry Real. We have been immersed in this valuable framework for years, engaging it both professionally and personally, and are currently in the final stages of RLT certification. We realize that by being in relationship with ourselves and others in a way that is accountable, empathetic, and vulnerable, we are able to flourish as partners, parents, and professionals. We hope to help you do the same in your relational life.
(503) 755-5392 View (503) 755-5392
Photo of Amy Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Amy Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I specialize in working with teens and Generation Z adults using a range of therapeutic interventions. My preferred age range is 16 - 30. My work with clients has involved treating mood disorders and addressing identity concerns. My clients have been new to counseling or have returned to therapy, and are motivated to move forward. Over the years, I have worked with clients to address anxiety, binge eating, depression, gender dysphoria, sexuality, self-harm, and stress.
I specialize in working with teens and Generation Z adults using a range of therapeutic interventions. My preferred age range is 16 - 30. My work with clients has involved treating mood disorders and addressing identity concerns. My clients have been new to counseling or have returned to therapy, and are motivated to move forward. Over the years, I have worked with clients to address anxiety, binge eating, depression, gender dysphoria, sexuality, self-harm, and stress.
(503) 305-4072 View (503) 305-4072

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.