Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Tao Wilkes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tao Wilkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
(614) 412-1914 View (614) 412-1914
Photo of Bonnie Frye, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Bonnie Frye
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
(380) 207-9079 View (380) 207-9079
Photo of Stephanie Ann Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Stephanie Ann Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is someone who wants support in improving their mental health, navigating life's challenges, and building better relationships and self-esteem.
My ideal client is someone who wants support in improving their mental health, navigating life's challenges, and building better relationships and self-esteem.
(614) 810-4987 View (614) 810-4987
Photo of Rylee Doherty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Rylee Doherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Rylee is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Rylee graduated in 2022, with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. Before attending graduate school, Rylee graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology from the Ohio State University. While also focusing on her clinical passions, Rylee serves her time as a federal employee managing security related incidents for the state of Ohio.
Rylee is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Rylee graduated in 2022, with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. Before attending graduate school, Rylee graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology from the Ohio State University. While also focusing on her clinical passions, Rylee serves her time as a federal employee managing security related incidents for the state of Ohio.
(614) 666-6709 View (614) 666-6709
Photo of Kevin Jaworski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Kevin Jaworski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist specializing in OCD, I understand the pain and futility that accompanies chronic overthinking and the difficulty of being mired in the same unhelpful behaviors and emotions. I understand the bewilderment of not knowing what could help, as well as the frustration of knowing, yet still feeling unable to move forward. We want agency over ourselves and our lives, but we also want to be able to let go of that which is out of our control. While I put no timetable on recovery, my hope for my clients is that they come to a place where they feel like they no longer need my services.
As a therapist specializing in OCD, I understand the pain and futility that accompanies chronic overthinking and the difficulty of being mired in the same unhelpful behaviors and emotions. I understand the bewilderment of not knowing what could help, as well as the frustration of knowing, yet still feeling unable to move forward. We want agency over ourselves and our lives, but we also want to be able to let go of that which is out of our control. While I put no timetable on recovery, my hope for my clients is that they come to a place where they feel like they no longer need my services.
(440) 271-8276 View (440) 271-8276
Photo of Dana Moody, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westerville, OH
Dana Moody
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Our mental/emotional health is often overlooked despite being central to our well-being. Sometimes we can feel suffocated by the pain of our life experiences. Counseling offers hope and a pathway for healing so that the brokenness in our past doesn't negatively affect our present and future. Decide to invest in yourself and improve your enjoyment of life regardless of your past or current circumstances. Getting the help you need is something you'll never regret.
Our mental/emotional health is often overlooked despite being central to our well-being. Sometimes we can feel suffocated by the pain of our life experiences. Counseling offers hope and a pathway for healing so that the brokenness in our past doesn't negatively affect our present and future. Decide to invest in yourself and improve your enjoyment of life regardless of your past or current circumstances. Getting the help you need is something you'll never regret.
(614) 918-4364 View (614) 918-4364
Photo of Rebecca Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(380) 333-6059 View (380) 333-6059
Photo of Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westerville, OH
Friedman Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
(614) 426-0206 View (614) 426-0206
Photo of Kathy Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Kathy Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, ATR
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Kathy Brown, LISW-S Kathy Brown is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1989. Kathy is an existential therapist with many years of experience working with people who are struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, and depression. Kathy is well versed in many therapy techniques and is also an art therapist. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys gardening, spending time with her family and friends, playing with her dog, hiking, and doing art.
Kathy Brown, LISW-S Kathy Brown is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1989. Kathy is an existential therapist with many years of experience working with people who are struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, and depression. Kathy is well versed in many therapy techniques and is also an art therapist. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys gardening, spending time with her family and friends, playing with her dog, hiking, and doing art.
(614) 705-2422 View (614) 705-2422
Photo of Katelyn Strand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Katelyn Strand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Mindful Practice Co. is a therapy practice based on the principles of mindfulness - building awareness and skills for a hopeful future. I am a therapist with over 3 years of experience and specialized training in the areas of trauma and abuse, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in several different treatment models and draw on each of these approaches to specialize treatment for each individual. I understand mindfulness and meditation are not everyone's favorite healing modalities, and therapy is mindfulness in itself! I am honored that you would consider me to further your healing and growth.
Mindful Practice Co. is a therapy practice based on the principles of mindfulness - building awareness and skills for a hopeful future. I am a therapist with over 3 years of experience and specialized training in the areas of trauma and abuse, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in several different treatment models and draw on each of these approaches to specialize treatment for each individual. I understand mindfulness and meditation are not everyone's favorite healing modalities, and therapy is mindfulness in itself! I am honored that you would consider me to further your healing and growth.
(614) 612-1921 View (614) 612-1921
Photo of Michael D Perciful, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Michael D Perciful
Counselor, MACM, LPCC-S, LCDCIII, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
(614) 745-8531 View (614) 745-8531
Photo of Barry Chenault, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Barry Chenault
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Barry Chenault is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. He has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Ohio University and a master's degree from the University of Dayton in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Barry Chenault is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. He has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Ohio University and a master's degree from the University of Dayton in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(380) 205-2241 View (380) 205-2241
Photo of Cassandra Tapia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Cassandra Tapia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
(380) 205-0144 View (380) 205-0144
Photo of Lorie A Kaufman Rees, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lorie A Kaufman Rees
Counselor, MA, MFCS, PCCS
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME? Much like sedimentary rock forms over time, our early experiences are deposited within us layer upon layer, shaping who we are today. But even once rock is formed, it doesn’t ever stay the same. There are natural forces that are RE-forming it continually. And the same is true for us. So when we’re not aware a formational process is taking place, the events of our lives can sometimes be confusing, uncomfortable, or even downright painful. RE|formation Coaching helps you embrace naturally occurring experiences and engage with them in a way that allows YOU to determine how they ultimately reshape your life.
GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME? Much like sedimentary rock forms over time, our early experiences are deposited within us layer upon layer, shaping who we are today. But even once rock is formed, it doesn’t ever stay the same. There are natural forces that are RE-forming it continually. And the same is true for us. So when we’re not aware a formational process is taking place, the events of our lives can sometimes be confusing, uncomfortable, or even downright painful. RE|formation Coaching helps you embrace naturally occurring experiences and engage with them in a way that allows YOU to determine how they ultimately reshape your life.
(614) 482-2657 View (614) 482-2657
Photo of Matthew Escano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Matthew Escano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, various forms of addiction, autism, & more. Are your goals oriented towards reducing maladaptive symptoms, identifying the behaviors you wish to engage in, being the person you want to be, and, ultimately, the life you aspire to live? Do you desire change and growth & are willing to put the necessary effort in? As your counselor, I do not effect change; that responsibility belongs to you. I aim to empower you to recognize your innate strengths, develop them further, and effectively use them towards your goals in life.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, various forms of addiction, autism, & more. Are your goals oriented towards reducing maladaptive symptoms, identifying the behaviors you wish to engage in, being the person you want to be, and, ultimately, the life you aspire to live? Do you desire change and growth & are willing to put the necessary effort in? As your counselor, I do not effect change; that responsibility belongs to you. I aim to empower you to recognize your innate strengths, develop them further, and effectively use them towards your goals in life.
(380) 214-2515 View (380) 214-2515
Photo of Mary Finley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mary Finley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCDCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
(380) 666-6447 View (380) 666-6447
Photo of Brad Brewer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Brad Brewer
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, loss, life changes, addiction, work… or just life in general. I help people with situations that are impacting their ability to enjoy life & move forward. I help people that are doing OK in life achieve & become more. I'm passionate about what I do & I'm confident I can help you. If I can’t, I will refer you to someone who can.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, loss, life changes, addiction, work… or just life in general. I help people with situations that are impacting their ability to enjoy life & move forward. I help people that are doing OK in life achieve & become more. I'm passionate about what I do & I'm confident I can help you. If I can’t, I will refer you to someone who can.
(614) 389-9204 View (614) 389-9204
Photo of One Recovery Company LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
One Recovery Company LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR-tr, M
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Is your relationship with a loved one or spouse suffering? Are you keeping secrets from loved ones or feel you are at the place where you need intervention? At One Recovery Company, I specialize in addressing internal and external systems that create dysfunction in relationships. Furthermore, I help my clients reconstruct the parts of themselves that seem to fall short of achieving healthy attachment. If your goal is to establish recovery that can restore your relationships, mental health, and overall life satisfaction, here is your invitation. The space I offer is one that is safe, judgment-free, and equipped to help you succeed.
Is your relationship with a loved one or spouse suffering? Are you keeping secrets from loved ones or feel you are at the place where you need intervention? At One Recovery Company, I specialize in addressing internal and external systems that create dysfunction in relationships. Furthermore, I help my clients reconstruct the parts of themselves that seem to fall short of achieving healthy attachment. If your goal is to establish recovery that can restore your relationships, mental health, and overall life satisfaction, here is your invitation. The space I offer is one that is safe, judgment-free, and equipped to help you succeed.
(614) 739-9406 View (614) 739-9406
Photo of Tricia Good, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Tricia Good
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you nervous, afraid, feeling that asking for professional help is a sign of weakness, or worried what others will think of you? These thoughts and feelings are more common than you realize. Day-to-day life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and somewhat challenging at times. It is important that you have a safe place to explore the stressors in your life and be able to learn the necessary coping skills for personal growth. I will not only provide a confidential, safe, and calming place for you, but I will also be non-judgmental and empathetic to your needs.
Are you nervous, afraid, feeling that asking for professional help is a sign of weakness, or worried what others will think of you? These thoughts and feelings are more common than you realize. Day-to-day life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and somewhat challenging at times. It is important that you have a safe place to explore the stressors in your life and be able to learn the necessary coping skills for personal growth. I will not only provide a confidential, safe, and calming place for you, but I will also be non-judgmental and empathetic to your needs.
(330) 594-8157 View (330) 594-8157
Photo of De’Aja Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
De’Aja Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Deaja Hines, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
(614) 683-4803 View (614) 683-4803

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
75% Optum
70% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.