Therapists in Mattoon, IL

Photo of Federico Parola, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Federico Parola
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
I started my journey as a family therapist in 2017. I have been providing direct care in a variety of settings to children, adolescents and adults. My approach includes modalities that are attachment based, experiential, and trauma informed. I have experience working with clients battling with anxiety, family challenges, life transitions, and parenting.
I started my journey as a family therapist in 2017. I have been providing direct care in a variety of settings to children, adolescents and adults. My approach includes modalities that are attachment based, experiential, and trauma informed. I have experience working with clients battling with anxiety, family challenges, life transitions, and parenting.
(217) 687-1318 View (217) 687-1318
Photo of Jessica Bulthouse, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Jessica Bulthouse
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
Life is hard sometimes. Maybe you’re dealing with a difficult relationship or maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or past hurts. Maybe you feel isolated and like no one will understand what is going on inside you. Possibly you have thoughts, feelings or behaviors that you don’t want but have no idea how to change. I want you to know you are not alone. Providing a safe place where you feel accepted, heard and understood is one of my top priorities. Working together, we can better understand the reasons for the things you struggle with and empower you to handle them in a healthy way.
Life is hard sometimes. Maybe you’re dealing with a difficult relationship or maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or past hurts. Maybe you feel isolated and like no one will understand what is going on inside you. Possibly you have thoughts, feelings or behaviors that you don’t want but have no idea how to change. I want you to know you are not alone. Providing a safe place where you feel accepted, heard and understood is one of my top priorities. Working together, we can better understand the reasons for the things you struggle with and empower you to handle them in a healthy way.
(217) 582-4705 View (217) 582-4705
Photo of Angie Patton, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Angie Patton
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
Angie Patton has a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her expertise extends to addictions (food, drugs, alcohol, etc.) and codependency/family issue around addictions. Angie can work with all presenting issues for couples, individuals and families. She provides assessments for substance abuse and anger issues and is an expert public speaker.
Angie Patton has a Master of Science degree in Community Counseling, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her expertise extends to addictions (food, drugs, alcohol, etc.) and codependency/family issue around addictions. Angie can work with all presenting issues for couples, individuals and families. She provides assessments for substance abuse and anger issues and is an expert public speaker.
(217) 724-8474 View (217) 724-8474
Photo of Alexandria E Poe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Alexandria E Poe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
Therapy can be a life changing tool that opens the door to letting go of past frustrations, gaining insight into feeling more present, or securing the readiness to take on future hurdles. Allow me to help you maneuver through life's difficulties by providing evidence based therapeutic practices, and a passion for seeing clients reach their potential. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and will work hard to help you reach your therapeutic goals.
Therapy can be a life changing tool that opens the door to letting go of past frustrations, gaining insight into feeling more present, or securing the readiness to take on future hurdles. Allow me to help you maneuver through life's difficulties by providing evidence based therapeutic practices, and a passion for seeing clients reach their potential. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and will work hard to help you reach your therapeutic goals.
(217) 387-9839 View (217) 387-9839
Photo of Carol Claxon Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Carol Claxon Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mattoon, IL 61938
I believe we all have the capacity to change and grow. Therapy offers a safe, supportive space to develop awareness and understanding of life experiences and provides guidance in facing the changes and challenges that can become overwhelming in our lives. It’s during these times that we can feel alone, misunderstood, and overwhelmed. I would be happy to partner with you to discover new strategies for healthy coping, challenge patterns of negative beliefs and behaviors, increase healthy relationships, and discover your strengths. I can help to provide support and resources that will lead to personal growth and fulfillment in life.
I believe we all have the capacity to change and grow. Therapy offers a safe, supportive space to develop awareness and understanding of life experiences and provides guidance in facing the changes and challenges that can become overwhelming in our lives. It’s during these times that we can feel alone, misunderstood, and overwhelmed. I would be happy to partner with you to discover new strategies for healthy coping, challenge patterns of negative beliefs and behaviors, increase healthy relationships, and discover your strengths. I can help to provide support and resources that will lead to personal growth and fulfillment in life.
(217) 203-4165 View (217) 203-4165
Photo of Alexis Dearing, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Alexis Dearing
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mattoon, IL 61938  (Online Only)
Trying to find the counselor that best suits you can be frightening. It takes courage to try to seek help. Thank you for being here. Levels of resistance and vulnerability vary, but they are both important to understand for each unique individual. Whatever you bring to therapy, that is where I will meet you. I am here for who you are, and to meet you where you are at. This perspective speaks to my eclectic role as a therapist. I analyze a client and use the research and knowledge I have to apply the best theory or approach to help my client. I focus on what the client's goals are and how to help them reach them in healthy ways.
Trying to find the counselor that best suits you can be frightening. It takes courage to try to seek help. Thank you for being here. Levels of resistance and vulnerability vary, but they are both important to understand for each unique individual. Whatever you bring to therapy, that is where I will meet you. I am here for who you are, and to meet you where you are at. This perspective speaks to my eclectic role as a therapist. I analyze a client and use the research and knowledge I have to apply the best theory or approach to help my client. I focus on what the client's goals are and how to help them reach them in healthy ways.
(618) 232-4744 View (618) 232-4744

Online Therapists

Photo of Lawisha Dulski, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Lawisha Dulski
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
I believe in a person centered and narrative approach, as you are the expert of your own life. You have your own story to tell. Talking to a stranger about issues you’re facing can be extremely difficult and challenging but it shows enormous amounts of strength and bravery. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself, discuss challenges that you are facing, explore new ideas and new chapters, and to help promote growth and wellness. I want my clients to feel heard and understood.
I believe in a person centered and narrative approach, as you are the expert of your own life. You have your own story to tell. Talking to a stranger about issues you’re facing can be extremely difficult and challenging but it shows enormous amounts of strength and bravery. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself, discuss challenges that you are facing, explore new ideas and new chapters, and to help promote growth and wellness. I want my clients to feel heard and understood.
(833) 659-1321 View (833) 659-1321
Photo of Jamie Stevens - Jamie Stevens Counseling Services, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Jamie Stevens - Jamie Stevens Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61821
Life is full of challenges. And sometimes we all need support. I have 2 passions; Autism and Women's Issues. I recognized many years ago that services for people with high functioning autism are lacking in our nation. They tend to fall in the cracks because people believe they don't need support. People with high functioning autism do need support, but that support needs to be uniquely designed for them. That's where I come in. My second passion, Women's Issues, has been some of my most meaningful work. Women face unique challenges in our culture, and it helps to have a therapist that understands these issues.
Life is full of challenges. And sometimes we all need support. I have 2 passions; Autism and Women's Issues. I recognized many years ago that services for people with high functioning autism are lacking in our nation. They tend to fall in the cracks because people believe they don't need support. People with high functioning autism do need support, but that support needs to be uniquely designed for them. That's where I come in. My second passion, Women's Issues, has been some of my most meaningful work. Women face unique challenges in our culture, and it helps to have a therapist that understands these issues.
(217) 840-2785 View (217) 840-2785
Photo of Emily Gibbs in Mattoon, IL
Emily Gibbs
MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62702
My ideal clients are individuals who have experienced trauma (including emotional, physical, sexual, and verbal abuse), PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, boundaries assertiveness, and other life difficulties. I specialize working with adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about helping individuals heal and be their authentic self. I allow each individual to process themselves in a safe and non-judgmental environment. From this space, individuals are then able to process their thoughts and feelings to help encourage personal growth and positive changes in their lives.
My ideal clients are individuals who have experienced trauma (including emotional, physical, sexual, and verbal abuse), PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, boundaries assertiveness, and other life difficulties. I specialize working with adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about helping individuals heal and be their authentic self. I allow each individual to process themselves in a safe and non-judgmental environment. From this space, individuals are then able to process their thoughts and feelings to help encourage personal growth and positive changes in their lives.
(217) 906-3662 View (217) 906-3662
Photo of Hailey Ramseyer, Licensed Social Worker in Mattoon, IL
Hailey Ramseyer
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Hi there, I'm Hailey, your dedicated ally in helping you navigate the challenges of ADHD, Autism, Trauma, and anxiety. I have a genuine passion for the well-being of teenagers and young adults, and I'm here to provide you with compassionate and tailored support. Come step into a safe and inclusive space where resilience, self-discovery, and empowered mental health take center stage. I bring a wealth of experience and evidence-based interventions, uniquely crafted for each individual. Embark on a transformative journey with me, where understanding meets healing. Let's work together to foster your mental well-being and growth.
Hi there, I'm Hailey, your dedicated ally in helping you navigate the challenges of ADHD, Autism, Trauma, and anxiety. I have a genuine passion for the well-being of teenagers and young adults, and I'm here to provide you with compassionate and tailored support. Come step into a safe and inclusive space where resilience, self-discovery, and empowered mental health take center stage. I bring a wealth of experience and evidence-based interventions, uniquely crafted for each individual. Embark on a transformative journey with me, where understanding meets healing. Let's work together to foster your mental well-being and growth.
(309) 822-9004 View (309) 822-9004
Photo of Allison Schieferle Uhlenbrock, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Allison Schieferle Uhlenbrock
Counselor, LCPC, C-DBT, NCC
Verified Verified
Morton, IL 61550
As a mental health counselor, my focus lies in partnering with children, adolescents, and adults alike. I specialize in grief therapy and emotional regulation, offering tailored support to individuals of all ages. I am particularly passionate about guiding folks through the grieving process, helping them understand and express their emotions in healthy ways. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment, I empower clients to build resilience and navigate life's ups and downs with confidence.
As a mental health counselor, my focus lies in partnering with children, adolescents, and adults alike. I specialize in grief therapy and emotional regulation, offering tailored support to individuals of all ages. I am particularly passionate about guiding folks through the grieving process, helping them understand and express their emotions in healthy ways. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment, I empower clients to build resilience and navigate life's ups and downs with confidence.
(309) 518-1779 View (309) 518-1779
Photo of Sharon Lindsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Sharon Lindsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to break free of the stress and silent struggle within so you can feel happier, shine brighter, and live life to your fullest potential? Everyone faces challenges and has difficult times in their lives. A favorite author of mine, Brene Brown says: “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” It may feel scary to reach out to someone new, but I assure you that I will provide a safe space where you will feel seen, heard, and supported.
Are you ready to break free of the stress and silent struggle within so you can feel happier, shine brighter, and live life to your fullest potential? Everyone faces challenges and has difficult times in their lives. A favorite author of mine, Brene Brown says: “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” It may feel scary to reach out to someone new, but I assure you that I will provide a safe space where you will feel seen, heard, and supported.
(309) 455-5233 View (309) 455-5233
Photo of Paula Voigt, Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Paula Voigt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Are having difficulty coping after experiencing a miscarriage? Are you struggling with infertility? Do you feel overwhelmed with the stress of assisted reproductive treatments? As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I understand the complex emotional and psychological impact that infertility and miscarriage can have. I can support you in maintaining hope, peace and positivity while navigating uncertainty and help you build resiliency as you work through obstacles. Having personally faced infertility and both early and late miscarriages, I have intimate experience in working through these unique and difficult challenges.
Are having difficulty coping after experiencing a miscarriage? Are you struggling with infertility? Do you feel overwhelmed with the stress of assisted reproductive treatments? As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I understand the complex emotional and psychological impact that infertility and miscarriage can have. I can support you in maintaining hope, peace and positivity while navigating uncertainty and help you build resiliency as you work through obstacles. Having personally faced infertility and both early and late miscarriages, I have intimate experience in working through these unique and difficult challenges.
(224) 505-1550 View (224) 505-1550
Photo of Sheila Garrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Sheila Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Savoy, IL 61874
Feeling stuck? Unsure what to do next? Seeking help when you need it is a major step towards making progress! My approach is relationship-based, strength-focused, and collaborative. My experience comes from over 20 years of providing services in schools, community mental health, and adoption preservation. I specialize in working with issues due to trauma, school, work, relationship difficulties or life transitions.
Feeling stuck? Unsure what to do next? Seeking help when you need it is a major step towards making progress! My approach is relationship-based, strength-focused, and collaborative. My experience comes from over 20 years of providing services in schools, community mental health, and adoption preservation. I specialize in working with issues due to trauma, school, work, relationship difficulties or life transitions.
(217) 203-4238 View (217) 203-4238
Photo of Jennifer Walbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Jennifer Walbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. and attachment I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. and attachment I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
(309) 485-5909 View (309) 485-5909
Photo of Dr. Brian McFarland, Psychologist in Mattoon, IL
Dr. Brian McFarland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
Over the past 15+ years, my practice has been focused primarily on helping clients recover from traumatic experiences and find increased satisfaction and inner peace. I have experience working with clients dealing with PTSD and other posttraumatic reactions, depression, anxiety, panic, sleep disturbance, impulse control problems, attention difficulties, mood dysregulation, and problematic substance use. I also have experience helping clients improve their interpersonal relationships, communication, assertiveness, and organizational skills.
Over the past 15+ years, my practice has been focused primarily on helping clients recover from traumatic experiences and find increased satisfaction and inner peace. I have experience working with clients dealing with PTSD and other posttraumatic reactions, depression, anxiety, panic, sleep disturbance, impulse control problems, attention difficulties, mood dysregulation, and problematic substance use. I also have experience helping clients improve their interpersonal relationships, communication, assertiveness, and organizational skills.
(217) 634-6529 View (217) 634-6529
Photo of Anna Strohl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Anna Strohl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I have a passion for supporting people and helping them work through trauma, healing childhood wounds, and improving their current relationships. I also enjoy working with couples, families, kids ages 12 and up, and individuals going through life transitions (graduating, starting new jobs, new family, empty nesters, etc.) I have experience working with clients with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship difficulties, self worth concerns, etc.
I have a passion for supporting people and helping them work through trauma, healing childhood wounds, and improving their current relationships. I also enjoy working with couples, families, kids ages 12 and up, and individuals going through life transitions (graduating, starting new jobs, new family, empty nesters, etc.) I have experience working with clients with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship difficulties, self worth concerns, etc.
(217) 645-1951 View (217) 645-1951
Photo of Scott Michael Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Scott Michael Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Hello! My name is Scott Murray, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in private practice as a psychotherapist. I am a graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL, where I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work and soon after attained my Illinois clinical social work licensure. I have 20+ years experience working in outpatient clinics, in-patient psychiatric treatment facilities, academic institutions, and forensic facilities where I provided assessment and therapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families.
Hello! My name is Scott Murray, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in private practice as a psychotherapist. I am a graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL, where I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work and soon after attained my Illinois clinical social work licensure. I have 20+ years experience working in outpatient clinics, in-patient psychiatric treatment facilities, academic institutions, and forensic facilities where I provided assessment and therapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families.
(618) 492-4841 View (618) 492-4841
Photo of Elise Champanhet, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Mattoon, IL
Elise Champanhet
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701  (Online Only)
I work from a person centered, narrative approach to guide people toward their goals. I work with adults of all ages and cultural backgrounds to help them reclaim past experiences, take control of their present and work towards a future they envision. Together, we’ll examine your challenges, values, and goals to create a path toward recovery. We will work together to take control of your life story and determine what health looks like for you.
I work from a person centered, narrative approach to guide people toward their goals. I work with adults of all ages and cultural backgrounds to help them reclaim past experiences, take control of their present and work towards a future they envision. Together, we’ll examine your challenges, values, and goals to create a path toward recovery. We will work together to take control of your life story and determine what health looks like for you.
(309) 244-1485 View (309) 244-1485
Photo of Fida Abdelrasoul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mattoon, IL
Fida Abdelrasoul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
(217) 436-6481 View (217) 436-6481

See more therapy options for Mattoon

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mattoon, IL

< 10

Therapists in Mattoon, IL who prioritize treating:

83% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Women's Issues
67% Parenting
67% Self Esteem
67% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Health Alliance
67% Aetna

How Therapists in Mattoon, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mattoon?

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.