Therapists in West Chester, OH

Photo of Sandy M Kaplan, Marriage & Family Therapist in West Chester, OH
Sandy M Kaplan
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I specialize in couples counseling, blended families, gender dysphoria, adjustment to divorce, anxiety and depressive disorders and improving interpersonal relationships. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and over both in person and by telehealth. My aim is to support clients in reaching their individual goals to improve mood, strengthen communication skills, utilize healthy coping strategies to better manage all of life’s challenges and increase general functioning and wellbeing in an inviting and comfortable setting.
I specialize in couples counseling, blended families, gender dysphoria, adjustment to divorce, anxiety and depressive disorders and improving interpersonal relationships. I enjoy working with individuals ages 13 and over both in person and by telehealth. My aim is to support clients in reaching their individual goals to improve mood, strengthen communication skills, utilize healthy coping strategies to better manage all of life’s challenges and increase general functioning and wellbeing in an inviting and comfortable setting.
(513) 952-8443 View (513) 952-8443
Photo of Annie Webb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Chester, OH
Annie Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful tool, and I help my clients implement it effectively as they strive for change. I use a creative, eclectic, person-centered approach that is individually tailored to each client. Together, we build honest, open, and easy relationships to encourage exploration, reflection, and growth in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My goal is to provide insightful and empowering strategies that foster confidence and independence.
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful tool, and I help my clients implement it effectively as they strive for change. I use a creative, eclectic, person-centered approach that is individually tailored to each client. Together, we build honest, open, and easy relationships to encourage exploration, reflection, and growth in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My goal is to provide insightful and empowering strategies that foster confidence and independence.
(773) 570-1665 View (773) 570-1665
Photo of Miriam Cardona Counseling, Counselor in West Chester, OH
Miriam Cardona Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069  (Online Only)
My name is Miriam Cardona and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing services in both English and Spanish. I earned my Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling from the Athenaeum of Ohio Seminary.
My name is Miriam Cardona and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing services in both English and Spanish. I earned my Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling from the Athenaeum of Ohio Seminary.
(513) 657-4863 View (513) 657-4863
Photo of Teresa B Olson, Psychologist in West Chester, OH
Teresa B Olson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I would be honored to join you on your life journey. Whether you are experiencing stress, needing support, looking for coping skills, wanting a deeper understanding of your inner self, or just curious about exploring your purpose; we can work together to find the answers. I offer a safe, confidential, and supportive environment in which to explore, learn, and gain inner wisdom.
I would be honored to join you on your life journey. Whether you are experiencing stress, needing support, looking for coping skills, wanting a deeper understanding of your inner self, or just curious about exploring your purpose; we can work together to find the answers. I offer a safe, confidential, and supportive environment in which to explore, learn, and gain inner wisdom.
(513) 657-2867 View (513) 657-2867
Photo of Tacie Renee Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Chester, OH
Tacie Renee Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I see my role as someone who journeys with you through the struggle as we walk towards wellness together. It is my heart's desire to see those around me flourish, and I would count it an honor to be invited into your story. I specialize in providing mental health counseling for individuals of all ages, including adults, teens and young adults. Within sessions, I incorporate over 15 years of experience working alongside adolescents and their parents as well as 5 years mentoring and walking alongside young adults.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I see my role as someone who journeys with you through the struggle as we walk towards wellness together. It is my heart's desire to see those around me flourish, and I would count it an honor to be invited into your story. I specialize in providing mental health counseling for individuals of all ages, including adults, teens and young adults. Within sessions, I incorporate over 15 years of experience working alongside adolescents and their parents as well as 5 years mentoring and walking alongside young adults.
(513) 643-8347 View (513) 643-8347
Photo of Jennifer Bullock, Counselor in West Chester, OH
Jennifer Bullock
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I enjoy working with teens and young adults struggling with disordered eating behaviors, emotional dysregulation/early symptoms of BPD, and suicidal ideation. I believe all behaviors, including these, are caused, and we can work together to better understand yours. I often use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my practice. I like to identify how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact with each other & your environment. I also examine how societal, cultural, and political causes and solutions to the struggles you face play a role. I'll utilize other modalities and techniques as needed for your treatment.
I enjoy working with teens and young adults struggling with disordered eating behaviors, emotional dysregulation/early symptoms of BPD, and suicidal ideation. I believe all behaviors, including these, are caused, and we can work together to better understand yours. I often use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my practice. I like to identify how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact with each other & your environment. I also examine how societal, cultural, and political causes and solutions to the struggles you face play a role. I'll utilize other modalities and techniques as needed for your treatment.
(513) 450-4806 View (513) 450-4806
Photo of Paul J Schwartz in West Chester, OH
Paul J Schwartz
MD
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Some of the main issues for which individuals typically seek psychotherapy include, 1) Why are my relationships so troubled?, 2) Why have I been unhappy for so long?, 3) Why do I repeat the same problems over and over again?, 4) Is my past haunting me?, 5) How can I regain my self-respect and dignity?, 6) What is causing my symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or insomnia?, and 7) Do I need medication? In addition to these important issues, I would also ask, "Is there anything more important in your life than your psychological well-being?"
Some of the main issues for which individuals typically seek psychotherapy include, 1) Why are my relationships so troubled?, 2) Why have I been unhappy for so long?, 3) Why do I repeat the same problems over and over again?, 4) Is my past haunting me?, 5) How can I regain my self-respect and dignity?, 6) What is causing my symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or insomnia?, and 7) Do I need medication? In addition to these important issues, I would also ask, "Is there anything more important in your life than your psychological well-being?"
(513) 847-3535 View (513) 847-3535
Photo of Sophia A Sparks, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Chester, OH
Sophia A Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
The world is not built for kind, empathic people. It can wear you down fast and even faster without the right skills. Stress builds up and becomes anxiety: your mind runs amok with worry and doubt. You question your worth. You relive trauma- did you deserve it? Were they right about you? Why did it happen? Relationships are difficult because they require trust and vulnerability. How could a partner understand you when you can't? You're told finding purpose helps, but you don't know yours. Right now, there isn't even room to think about it. It's all too much. It may be too much on your own,but with guidance this can be healed
The world is not built for kind, empathic people. It can wear you down fast and even faster without the right skills. Stress builds up and becomes anxiety: your mind runs amok with worry and doubt. You question your worth. You relive trauma- did you deserve it? Were they right about you? Why did it happen? Relationships are difficult because they require trust and vulnerability. How could a partner understand you when you can't? You're told finding purpose helps, but you don't know yours. Right now, there isn't even room to think about it. It's all too much. It may be too much on your own,but with guidance this can be healed
(513) 457-1616 View (513) 457-1616
Photo of Cheri Everhart, Counselor in West Chester, OH
Cheri Everhart
Counselor, MA, LPCC, CDCA
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Most people seek therapy because they are looking for relief from a specific problem or from a more general sense of not feeling “right”. You may see yourself as damaged or incomplete, but I see you as having an unlimited amount of potential. Choosing a therapist involves finding someone you feel will be most helpful to you. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is truly unique. I help my clients by providing empathy and support throughout the session. I specialize in helping clients who feel overwhelmed and stressed out, gain a different outlook on life.
Most people seek therapy because they are looking for relief from a specific problem or from a more general sense of not feeling “right”. You may see yourself as damaged or incomplete, but I see you as having an unlimited amount of potential. Choosing a therapist involves finding someone you feel will be most helpful to you. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is truly unique. I help my clients by providing empathy and support throughout the session. I specialize in helping clients who feel overwhelmed and stressed out, gain a different outlook on life.
(513) 370-2597 View (513) 370-2597
Photo of Samantha Ciambro, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Chester, OH
Samantha Ciambro
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Constant overthinking and worrying, poor self-esteem, people-pleasing tendencies and depressed mood. If this describes something that you are going through, you don't have to go through it alone. I work with men and women from an attachment lens, which is a therapy word for saying that I focus on your early childhood years and how they impacted your daily life. If you find yourself overanalyzing the amount of work you put into your relationships and feel you give more than you're receiving, we can work through how to get you to a secure place within yourself without seeking external validation from others.
Constant overthinking and worrying, poor self-esteem, people-pleasing tendencies and depressed mood. If this describes something that you are going through, you don't have to go through it alone. I work with men and women from an attachment lens, which is a therapy word for saying that I focus on your early childhood years and how they impacted your daily life. If you find yourself overanalyzing the amount of work you put into your relationships and feel you give more than you're receiving, we can work through how to get you to a secure place within yourself without seeking external validation from others.
(513) 447-6208 View (513) 447-6208
Photo of Natalie Meiszer, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Chester, OH
Natalie Meiszer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Seeking help can be a rough and complicated process. A little about me as a counselor, I like to try and understand the person as a whole and work towards their goals through a collaborative process. Every human is unique, and I want to embrace that. I have had over 5 years of experience in the field of Addiction Treatment. Through this experience I learned to embrace the process of growth. I was able to see the profound impact mental health could have on an individual's life and became passionate about the field.
Seeking help can be a rough and complicated process. A little about me as a counselor, I like to try and understand the person as a whole and work towards their goals through a collaborative process. Every human is unique, and I want to embrace that. I have had over 5 years of experience in the field of Addiction Treatment. Through this experience I learned to embrace the process of growth. I was able to see the profound impact mental health could have on an individual's life and became passionate about the field.
(513) 647-6137 View (513) 647-6137
Photo of Amber R. Phillips, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in West Chester, OH
Amber R. Phillips
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS/EdS, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I enjoy and have experience working with those that have adjustment-related concerns, those that are dealing with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues. I am also open to working with clients that do not fall within these categories.
I enjoy and have experience working with those that have adjustment-related concerns, those that are dealing with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues. I am also open to working with clients that do not fall within these categories.
(513) 848-4966 View (513) 848-4966
Photo of Lynn R Crider, Counselor in West Chester, OH
Lynn R Crider
Counselor, MBA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Some seasons of life are joyful such as the anticipation of a graduation, getting married or welcoming a new baby. Other times we find ourselves in a season of adversity and become overwhelmed by our circumstances. Profound disappointment sets in and we grieve our lost dreams and unmet expectations. During these more difficult seasons, we may develop negative beliefs about ourselves or the world around us that cause further suffering. It is my desire as a counselor to provide a compassionate space where one can wrestle with these negative beliefs and begin to see life through a more hopeful lens.
Some seasons of life are joyful such as the anticipation of a graduation, getting married or welcoming a new baby. Other times we find ourselves in a season of adversity and become overwhelmed by our circumstances. Profound disappointment sets in and we grieve our lost dreams and unmet expectations. During these more difficult seasons, we may develop negative beliefs about ourselves or the world around us that cause further suffering. It is my desire as a counselor to provide a compassionate space where one can wrestle with these negative beliefs and begin to see life through a more hopeful lens.
(513) 440-5288 View (513) 440-5288
Photo of Akemi Horii, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Chester, OH
Akemi Horii
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Akemi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Ohio. She provides in-person and telehealth therapy to adult and adolescent clients who have depression and anxiety, and struggle to find a sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. Her person-centered therapeutic approach is influenced by Motivational Interviews, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, and other modalities, to help clients embrace who they are and feel empowered in their life. She's lived in San Francisco and Chicago, and abroad in Japan, the United Kingdom, and Jordan, working in finance, IT, and education previously.
Akemi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Ohio. She provides in-person and telehealth therapy to adult and adolescent clients who have depression and anxiety, and struggle to find a sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. Her person-centered therapeutic approach is influenced by Motivational Interviews, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, and other modalities, to help clients embrace who they are and feel empowered in their life. She's lived in San Francisco and Chicago, and abroad in Japan, the United Kingdom, and Jordan, working in finance, IT, and education previously.
(513) 845-1905 View (513) 845-1905
Photo of Ashlyn Varacalli, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Chester, OH
Ashlyn Varacalli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I believe that the power of a positive therapeutic relationship can be a game-changer for anyone looking to improve their mental health. Just like exercising your body helps to strengthen your body, exercising your brain strengthens your brain. When we’re used to thinking negatively, negativity is the easiest path for our thoughts to travel. Anxiety can oftentimes stem from unhelpful thought patterns. When you’re able to untwist your thinking and reveal the truth underneath the anxiety, you are able to gain new perspective on life and its challenges.
I believe that the power of a positive therapeutic relationship can be a game-changer for anyone looking to improve their mental health. Just like exercising your body helps to strengthen your body, exercising your brain strengthens your brain. When we’re used to thinking negatively, negativity is the easiest path for our thoughts to travel. Anxiety can oftentimes stem from unhelpful thought patterns. When you’re able to untwist your thinking and reveal the truth underneath the anxiety, you are able to gain new perspective on life and its challenges.
(513) 951-1418 View (513) 951-1418
Photo of Lora R LeMay, Psychologist in West Chester, OH
Lora R LeMay
Psychologist, EdS
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I offer expertise in school-related issues that may adversely impact a child's educational functioning and success. I conduct psychoeducational assessments to diagnose various learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, or anxiety disorders. I also offer gifted assessments. I provide therapeutic intervention to develop coping skills, social skills, or executive functioning skills that are critical for student learning in the educational setting.
I offer expertise in school-related issues that may adversely impact a child's educational functioning and success. I conduct psychoeducational assessments to diagnose various learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, or anxiety disorders. I also offer gifted assessments. I provide therapeutic intervention to develop coping skills, social skills, or executive functioning skills that are critical for student learning in the educational setting.
(513) 447-6165 View (513) 447-6165
Photo of Christine Gemberling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Chester, OH
Christine Gemberling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45011
Hello! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over ten years of experience working with clients on various issues. Such issues include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Coping Skills, Elderly Persons Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Panic Attacks, and Stress. A few modalities I utilize are Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Family Systems, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Supportive therapy. I believe that establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship is key to success in treatment.
Hello! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over ten years of experience working with clients on various issues. Such issues include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Coping Skills, Elderly Persons Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Panic Attacks, and Stress. A few modalities I utilize are Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Family Systems, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Supportive therapy. I believe that establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship is key to success in treatment.
(216) 616-2048 View (216) 616-2048
Photo of Jennifer Utech - By The River Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Chester, OH
Jennifer Utech - By The River Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCPS, CCES-c
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
Waitlist for new clients
Evening appointments available. My top priority is to create a judgement-free space where you can address any issue you are wrestling with; such as anxiety, depression, betrayal, trauma, life transitions, conflict, personal growth, and more. Your experiences and feelings are valid and worthy of being heard. I am a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist trained in the APSATS - Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model and the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model (ERCEM). I have completed Level one of the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, am a certified SYMBIS facilitator (pre-marital counseling) and Brainspotting practitioner.
Evening appointments available. My top priority is to create a judgement-free space where you can address any issue you are wrestling with; such as anxiety, depression, betrayal, trauma, life transitions, conflict, personal growth, and more. Your experiences and feelings are valid and worthy of being heard. I am a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist trained in the APSATS - Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model and the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model (ERCEM). I have completed Level one of the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, am a certified SYMBIS facilitator (pre-marital counseling) and Brainspotting practitioner.
(513) 449-9496 View (513) 449-9496
Photo of Brooklyn Hampton, Counselor in West Chester, OH
Brooklyn Hampton
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Brooklyn Hampton is Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from Xavier University with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Brooklyn believes in using traditional therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy, as well as creative modalities such as EMDR, DBT and Play Therapy. Her areas of focus include Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, Drugs and Alcohol, and borderline personality disorder.
Brooklyn Hampton is Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, who has been practicing since 2018. She graduated from Xavier University with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Brooklyn believes in using traditional therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy, as well as creative modalities such as EMDR, DBT and Play Therapy. Her areas of focus include Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, Drugs and Alcohol, and borderline personality disorder.
(513) 647-2166 View (513) 647-2166
Photo of Christy Pulsford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Chester, OH
Christy Pulsford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Life presents challenges, and one can get stuck, but growth is in sight. While understanding can lead to change and peace of mind, there are times when you could use a little help gaining a clear perspective. That's where therapy comes in. It's a powerful tool that can provide the direction and support you need to manage stress, loneliness, anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms or just to adjust to life's changes.
Life presents challenges, and one can get stuck, but growth is in sight. While understanding can lead to change and peace of mind, there are times when you could use a little help gaining a clear perspective. That's where therapy comes in. It's a powerful tool that can provide the direction and support you need to manage stress, loneliness, anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms or just to adjust to life's changes.
(513) 847-3891 View (513) 847-3891

See more therapy options for West Chester

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Chester, OH

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in West Chester, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills
67% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% Anthem | Elevance
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in West Chester, OH see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in West Chester?

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.