Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Stacey Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Stacey Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
(614) 389-9387 View (614) 389-9387
Photo of Anita Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Anita Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Anita Clark is a licensed independent social worker with an undergraduate and master’s degree from The Ohio State University, as well as a certificate in working with Veterans. As a mental health therapist, Anita strives to break down treatment barriers and provide counseling in which patients feel seen, heard, and valued. She believes that change is hard but through developing tools and coping skills she can assist in empowering her clients to improve their mental health and over all well-being.
Anita Clark is a licensed independent social worker with an undergraduate and master’s degree from The Ohio State University, as well as a certificate in working with Veterans. As a mental health therapist, Anita strives to break down treatment barriers and provide counseling in which patients feel seen, heard, and valued. She believes that change is hard but through developing tools and coping skills she can assist in empowering her clients to improve their mental health and over all well-being.
(614) 665-0752 View (614) 665-0752
Photo of Lisa Riddle, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Riddle
Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
(614) 660-5965 View (614) 660-5965
Photo of Eva Shinka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Eva Shinka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
(614) 418-6958 View (614) 418-6958
Photo of Holly Graham, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Holly Graham
Counselor, LPCC, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
(614) 426-0076 View (614) 426-0076
Photo of Angela T. Horton, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Angela T. Horton
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC-S, NCC, CCMHC, CDCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Waitlist for new clients
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
(614) 389-9452 View (614) 389-9452
Photo of Lisa Walker Bebley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Walker Bebley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience in individual, couple, and group-counseling helping others eliminate negative stressors by replacing them with positive behavioral changes. My expertise is in working with adults who suffer with alcohol & substance abuse, depression, anxiety, coping skills, anger, crisis & stress management, women issues as well as PTSD. Are you having difficulty finding your way? Need a clear path to understanding where you are and what your purpose is? Do you need guidance in discovering the answers to those difficult questions in life? I am here to help you discover your way.
I have experience in individual, couple, and group-counseling helping others eliminate negative stressors by replacing them with positive behavioral changes. My expertise is in working with adults who suffer with alcohol & substance abuse, depression, anxiety, coping skills, anger, crisis & stress management, women issues as well as PTSD. Are you having difficulty finding your way? Need a clear path to understanding where you are and what your purpose is? Do you need guidance in discovering the answers to those difficult questions in life? I am here to help you discover your way.
(614) 972-1334 View (614) 972-1334
Photo of Heather Nicol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Heather Nicol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Is it time to focus on you? Are you experiencing relationship issues or parenting difficulties? Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or irritability? Is your job bringing you more sorrow than joy? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may benefit from the insight of a therapist. As a mental health therapist for the past 25 years I take pride in joining with my clients to sort through whatever issues are challenging to them in a warm, nurturing environment. Together we can reach the successes in life YOU desire either in person or via Telehealth.
Is it time to focus on you? Are you experiencing relationship issues or parenting difficulties? Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or irritability? Is your job bringing you more sorrow than joy? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may benefit from the insight of a therapist. As a mental health therapist for the past 25 years I take pride in joining with my clients to sort through whatever issues are challenging to them in a warm, nurturing environment. Together we can reach the successes in life YOU desire either in person or via Telehealth.
(614) 683-3294 View (614) 683-3294
Photo of Stephanie Eich, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Stephanie Eich
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I believe we are all complex beings and that sometimes we need to untangle the past to make sense of the present. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where you are able to speak freely, practice vulnerability and build resilience though personal growth. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to express and identify their emotions to build self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
I believe we are all complex beings and that sometimes we need to untangle the past to make sense of the present. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where you are able to speak freely, practice vulnerability and build resilience though personal growth. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to express and identify their emotions to build self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
(614) 683-3690 View (614) 683-3690
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 Jill M. McCullough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jill M. McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
(614) 810-8949 View (614) 810-8949
Photo of Jacqueline Lewis-Lyons, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Jacqueline Lewis-Lyons
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43086  (Online Only)
I help my clients learn to use their personal strengths to eliminate stress and establish new patterns of behavior to make their lives healthier and happier. We work together to address issues of low self-confidence, the fear of public speaking, a lack of supportive relationships or health-related problems. I enjoy seeing the positive changes my clients make as they achieve their goals that lead to a more satisfying life.
I help my clients learn to use their personal strengths to eliminate stress and establish new patterns of behavior to make their lives healthier and happier. We work together to address issues of low self-confidence, the fear of public speaking, a lack of supportive relationships or health-related problems. I enjoy seeing the positive changes my clients make as they achieve their goals that lead to a more satisfying life.
View
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 Cindy Herzberg, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Cindy Herzberg
Counselor, EdD, LSW, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
(614) 412-4124 View (614) 412-4124
Photo of Jason Stofel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jason Stofel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
(380) 207-0861 View (380) 207-0861
Photo of Monarch Counseling, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Monarch Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
(614) 918-4935 View (614) 918-4935
Photo of Florence Yuan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Florence Yuan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I see counseling as a pathway that helps people discover their strengths and gain tools to better navigate anxiety, depression, grief, identity confusion, life transitions, or other difficult life circumstances. In a therapeutic relationship, you can process your feelings and thoughts in a safe space. My hope is that clients will be seen, be heard, and be known in the process, which empower you toward the positive change you want to see in your life.
I see counseling as a pathway that helps people discover their strengths and gain tools to better navigate anxiety, depression, grief, identity confusion, life transitions, or other difficult life circumstances. In a therapeutic relationship, you can process your feelings and thoughts in a safe space. My hope is that clients will be seen, be heard, and be known in the process, which empower you toward the positive change you want to see in your life.
(380) 600-8774 x723 View (380) 600-8774 x723
Photo of Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers is dedicated in helping to support older adults during some of life's toughest transitions. As we age, we encounter both expected and unexpected changes which can lead to complicated grief for reasons such as decline in physical health, decreased sense of purpose, loss of loved ones, downsizing stress, and unexpected medical diagnosis/es. These transitions can leave one feeling hopeless and lost. You are not alone, we are here to help you find effective ways to feel better. Please visit our website to learn more about our services, www.cc4seniors.com.
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers is dedicated in helping to support older adults during some of life's toughest transitions. As we age, we encounter both expected and unexpected changes which can lead to complicated grief for reasons such as decline in physical health, decreased sense of purpose, loss of loved ones, downsizing stress, and unexpected medical diagnosis/es. These transitions can leave one feeling hopeless and lost. You are not alone, we are here to help you find effective ways to feel better. Please visit our website to learn more about our services, www.cc4seniors.com.
(380) 201-9885 View (380) 201-9885
Photo of Nicole Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Nicole Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Hello and welcome! Do you ever find yourself feeling depressed or anxious and wondering how to navigate life in a healthier way? When you are struggling, do you ever wonder about how there has to be a better way? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or seeking personal growth, we'll work collaboratively to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Ohio State University and have been in practice since 2010 and have several years of experience in helping individuals transform their lives.
Hello and welcome! Do you ever find yourself feeling depressed or anxious and wondering how to navigate life in a healthier way? When you are struggling, do you ever wonder about how there has to be a better way? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or seeking personal growth, we'll work collaboratively to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Ohio State University and have been in practice since 2010 and have several years of experience in helping individuals transform their lives.
(614) 541-1872 View (614) 541-1872
Photo of Angela S Hackney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Angela S Hackney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
(380) 201-9214 View (380) 201-9214

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.