Therapists in Woodstock, GA

Photo of Robert W Montgomery, Psychologist in Woodstock, GA
Robert W Montgomery
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
We are a Pediatric Practice that provides diagnostic psychological evaluations and Clinic-based ABA. I have 30+ years of experience with toddlers to geriatrics. I completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychology, am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Doctoral, and licensed clinical psychologist. I have served on the Board of the Assoc. for Science in Autism Treatment and on the APA Task Force on Empirically Validated Treatments. I have published on a variety of topics and have taught at Argosy, Auburn, and Georgia State Universities. I have conducted IEE evaluations for 40+ school districts and families.
We are a Pediatric Practice that provides diagnostic psychological evaluations and Clinic-based ABA. I have 30+ years of experience with toddlers to geriatrics. I completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychology, am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Doctoral, and licensed clinical psychologist. I have served on the Board of the Assoc. for Science in Autism Treatment and on the APA Task Force on Empirically Validated Treatments. I have published on a variety of topics and have taught at Argosy, Auburn, and Georgia State Universities. I have conducted IEE evaluations for 40+ school districts and families.
(678) 619-5487 View (678) 619-5487
Photo of Dr. Sara R Rose, Psychologist in Woodstock, GA
Dr. Sara R Rose
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
Not accepting new clients
Do you find yourself spending most of your time thinking about memories from your past or worrying about the future? Are your emotions causing problems for you with family, friends, work, or school? You may not even know exactly what is wrong, but feel like something has changed or is missing from your life. These are some of the many concerns that often bring my clients to therapy and can be successfully treated within the safe and nonjudgmental therapeutic setting I provide.
Do you find yourself spending most of your time thinking about memories from your past or worrying about the future? Are your emotions causing problems for you with family, friends, work, or school? You may not even know exactly what is wrong, but feel like something has changed or is missing from your life. These are some of the many concerns that often bring my clients to therapy and can be successfully treated within the safe and nonjudgmental therapeutic setting I provide.
(678) 831-5852 View (678) 831-5852
Photo of Mary Teresa Freeman-Walters, Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Mary Teresa Freeman-Walters
Counselor, MS, MAC, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
For as long as I can remember, I've had a heart for encouraging people. I consider it a blessing to be able to do what gives me great joy - watching lives become transformed through the healing experience of counseling. I am looking forward to meeting you and having the privilege to be a part of your journey of renewal.
For as long as I can remember, I've had a heart for encouraging people. I consider it a blessing to be able to do what gives me great joy - watching lives become transformed through the healing experience of counseling. I am looking forward to meeting you and having the privilege to be a part of your journey of renewal.
(678) 820-4781 View (678) 820-4781
Photo of Nicole Wood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Nicole Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
My name is Nicole Wood and I graduated from The University of Georgia in 2000 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I received my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Argosy University in 2007. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS). I work primarily with upper elementary aged children, adolescents, and women. I was a school counselor for 11 years in the Roswell area and I have been working in private practice for almost 6 years.
My name is Nicole Wood and I graduated from The University of Georgia in 2000 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I received my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Argosy University in 2007. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS). I work primarily with upper elementary aged children, adolescents, and women. I was a school counselor for 11 years in the Roswell area and I have been working in private practice for almost 6 years.
(678) 539-0281 View (678) 539-0281
Photo of Ryan O'Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Ryan O'Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
I believe that even though we are often hurt through relationships, we can also receive healing through relationships. I desire for people to experience the healing power of being vulnerable and real with God and one another (to know and be known). I seek to make my counseling room a safe and inviting place for clients to be able to work towards healing or to acquire the growth they desire in all areas of their life: mental, emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual.
I believe that even though we are often hurt through relationships, we can also receive healing through relationships. I desire for people to experience the healing power of being vulnerable and real with God and one another (to know and be known). I seek to make my counseling room a safe and inviting place for clients to be able to work towards healing or to acquire the growth they desire in all areas of their life: mental, emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual.
(678) 653-3272 View (678) 653-3272
Photo of Elizabeth South, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Elizabeth South
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30189
Elizabeth has experience counseling individuals, families and children with a wide scope of treatment issues, ranging from adjustment disorders to chronic, severe and persistent illness. She believes in a holistic approach for mental health treatment and explores how medical issues, medication management, diet, exercise, social factors, living arrangements and significant life events impact a person's wellbeing. Elizabeth is person centered, trauma informed, accepting and non-judgmental. She uses a wide variety of practice methods and tailors evidenced based practice methods to meet a person's individualized needs.
Elizabeth has experience counseling individuals, families and children with a wide scope of treatment issues, ranging from adjustment disorders to chronic, severe and persistent illness. She believes in a holistic approach for mental health treatment and explores how medical issues, medication management, diet, exercise, social factors, living arrangements and significant life events impact a person's wellbeing. Elizabeth is person centered, trauma informed, accepting and non-judgmental. She uses a wide variety of practice methods and tailors evidenced based practice methods to meet a person's individualized needs.
(470) 722-2984 View (470) 722-2984
Photo of Maggie Jackson, Master Social Worker in Woodstock, GA
Maggie Jackson
Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
My clients are individuals who are looking to work towards a life filled with meaning. Whether they are searching for meaning and satisfaction in their relationships, careers or parenting. My clients want to lift the weight of life's stressors and feelings of hurt and despair. I work with people on taking steps towards steering their lives on a new, more intentional path. I assist people with building and enhancing their relationships and careers while developing a greater level of self acceptance.
My clients are individuals who are looking to work towards a life filled with meaning. Whether they are searching for meaning and satisfaction in their relationships, careers or parenting. My clients want to lift the weight of life's stressors and feelings of hurt and despair. I work with people on taking steps towards steering their lives on a new, more intentional path. I assist people with building and enhancing their relationships and careers while developing a greater level of self acceptance.
(470) 414-5791 View (470) 414-5791
Photo of Jess May, Pre-Licensed Professional in Woodstock, GA
Jess May
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
Waitlist for new clients
My goal in therapy is to help clients grow and connect with their most authentic selves. I am passionate about working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions. As a queer and nonbinary person, I am uniquely tuned into the needs of gender expansive individuals and am very passionate about working with LGBTQ+ people. Finding a therapist that you don't have to explain your identity to can be challenging. I am someone who intimately understands and can provide specialized care.
My goal in therapy is to help clients grow and connect with their most authentic selves. I am passionate about working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions. As a queer and nonbinary person, I am uniquely tuned into the needs of gender expansive individuals and am very passionate about working with LGBTQ+ people. Finding a therapist that you don't have to explain your identity to can be challenging. I am someone who intimately understands and can provide specialized care.
(678) 831-5095 View (678) 831-5095
Photo of Stephanie F Bradley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Stephanie F Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30189  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety that holds you back? Feel depressed and drained of motivation? Grapple with self-doubt that limits your potential? As a licensed counselor with over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping adolescents and adults address these common issues to build fulfilling, purpose-driven lives. With compassion and judgment-free listening, I empower people to uncover their inner wisdom, courage, and confidence. My goal is to provide a safe space where you can open up, gain insight, and take steps to build a fulfilling life aligned with your values.
Do you struggle with anxiety that holds you back? Feel depressed and drained of motivation? Grapple with self-doubt that limits your potential? As a licensed counselor with over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping adolescents and adults address these common issues to build fulfilling, purpose-driven lives. With compassion and judgment-free listening, I empower people to uncover their inner wisdom, courage, and confidence. My goal is to provide a safe space where you can open up, gain insight, and take steps to build a fulfilling life aligned with your values.
(678) 931-8394 View (678) 931-8394
Photo of Daniel Slatinsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Daniel Slatinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30189  (Online Only)
I genuinely believe in a person's ability to grow and change for the better, and I'm here to assist you in that process. Whether you're struggling with relationships, communication skills, depression, anxiety, self-confidence, adult ADHD, unresolved conflicts, or related issues, I'm available to help. I bring years of experience as a therapist and a strong desire to assist you in defining and accomplishing your goals. My approach is supportive, practical, and built on Christian principles.
I genuinely believe in a person's ability to grow and change for the better, and I'm here to assist you in that process. Whether you're struggling with relationships, communication skills, depression, anxiety, self-confidence, adult ADHD, unresolved conflicts, or related issues, I'm available to help. I bring years of experience as a therapist and a strong desire to assist you in defining and accomplishing your goals. My approach is supportive, practical, and built on Christian principles.
(678) 383-4798 View (678) 383-4798
Photo of Safe Harbor Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Safe Harbor Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, BC-TMH, CIMP, CPLC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
Coming to therapy can be hard. Our goal is to make therapy and coaching a positive experience. We work mainly with all addictions including sex, porn and gambling as well as relationship issues, couples work and anxiety. We also work with couples having relationship concerns and those seeking premarital counseling. We offer life coaching for those looking to break negative life patterns and those that are having a hard time managing life transitions. We also specialize in teen issues as well as transgender and identity issues and are certified to do phone and video sessions.
Coming to therapy can be hard. Our goal is to make therapy and coaching a positive experience. We work mainly with all addictions including sex, porn and gambling as well as relationship issues, couples work and anxiety. We also work with couples having relationship concerns and those seeking premarital counseling. We offer life coaching for those looking to break negative life patterns and those that are having a hard time managing life transitions. We also specialize in teen issues as well as transgender and identity issues and are certified to do phone and video sessions.
(770) 574-6309 View (770) 574-6309
Photo of Dillon Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Dillon Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30189
"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do." - Bren'e Brown. We are the authors of our own life story and you have now started the next chapter in your story by reaching out for help. I focus my practice on providing a safe space for all clients to share their story as well as creating an environment that promotes collaboration and relationship building. I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families that present with a variety of needs such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, ADHD, grief, and anger management.
"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do." - Bren'e Brown. We are the authors of our own life story and you have now started the next chapter in your story by reaching out for help. I focus my practice on providing a safe space for all clients to share their story as well as creating an environment that promotes collaboration and relationship building. I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families that present with a variety of needs such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, ADHD, grief, and anger management.
(470) 634-5330 View (470) 634-5330
Photo of Barbara D Jarratt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Barbara D Jarratt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
I believe that each person's spiritual, emotional, and physical qualities are connected in such a way that a problem in one area affects the others. My experience with couples and individual adults includes addressing issues of anxiety, addiction and codependency, grief and loss, healing from divorce, boundaries, stress management, relationships, and communication issues. I also have experience in helping with relationships dealing with sex or porn addiction - working with the wife or the husband, or both together.
I believe that each person's spiritual, emotional, and physical qualities are connected in such a way that a problem in one area affects the others. My experience with couples and individual adults includes addressing issues of anxiety, addiction and codependency, grief and loss, healing from divorce, boundaries, stress management, relationships, and communication issues. I also have experience in helping with relationships dealing with sex or porn addiction - working with the wife or the husband, or both together.
(404) 445-1347 View (404) 445-1347
Photo of Heather Rosemarie Coll, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Heather Rosemarie Coll
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188  (Online Only)
Are you interested in reaching your full potential and seeking solutions for a better tomorrow? With the use of EMDR, you can neutralize the past, eradicate unwanted symptoms such as anxiety and depression, increase self-esteem, and create the life you want. For the last fifteen years, I have successfully shifted clients who reported not feeling a benefit with traditional talk therapy. I am progressive in the therapy approaches I utilize and am partial to modalities that are evidence-based and well researched, such as EMDR, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM), & Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).
Are you interested in reaching your full potential and seeking solutions for a better tomorrow? With the use of EMDR, you can neutralize the past, eradicate unwanted symptoms such as anxiety and depression, increase self-esteem, and create the life you want. For the last fifteen years, I have successfully shifted clients who reported not feeling a benefit with traditional talk therapy. I am progressive in the therapy approaches I utilize and am partial to modalities that are evidence-based and well researched, such as EMDR, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM), & Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).
(561) 349-4640 View (561) 349-4640
Photo of Byard Arkward, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Byard Arkward
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, RN, NCAC, CAC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30189
I am a nationally certified addiction counselor (NCAC) and also certified by the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA) as a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC). I earned my CAC credentials in 2010, and received the New Counselor of the Year Award in the State of Georgia in 2011 from GACA. I am also a Professional RN in the State of Georgia. I was formerly the Program Director for Pathway Outpatient Services which specializes in Abstinent Based Treatment for all substances and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). I have also worked in the BH/MH settings with adolescent, teen and adult patients in different facilities.
I am a nationally certified addiction counselor (NCAC) and also certified by the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA) as a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC). I earned my CAC credentials in 2010, and received the New Counselor of the Year Award in the State of Georgia in 2011 from GACA. I am also a Professional RN in the State of Georgia. I was formerly the Program Director for Pathway Outpatient Services which specializes in Abstinent Based Treatment for all substances and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). I have also worked in the BH/MH settings with adolescent, teen and adult patients in different facilities.
(404) 975-2760 View (404) 975-2760
Photo of Jessica Stouffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Jessica Stouffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
I'm Jessica and I'm thrilled to welcome you to a safe, calming space where growth and individualized care take center stage. I work with children, teens, and adults, and am passionate about using both effective and creative therapy techniques to empower individuals and families on their unique journeys (yes, this sometimes even includes art, music, and body movement while in my therapy room!).
I'm Jessica and I'm thrilled to welcome you to a safe, calming space where growth and individualized care take center stage. I work with children, teens, and adults, and am passionate about using both effective and creative therapy techniques to empower individuals and families on their unique journeys (yes, this sometimes even includes art, music, and body movement while in my therapy room!).
(770) 762-3934 View (770) 762-3934
Photo of Sarah Schneeberg, LPC Intern in Woodstock, GA
Sarah Schneeberg
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I am a graduate student intern working towards my masters in counseling at Richmont Graduate University. I believe we all make sense in the context of our stories. When we look back into the past, we can bring new understanding to who we are. With this understanding comes healing and hope for the future. I hope to provide a safe place where you can process and explore your own story and begin heal from the different traumas and life hurts that you have experienced. I am passionate about walking alongside people of all ages as they discover who they are, and who they want to be, in the story of their life.
Hi! I am a graduate student intern working towards my masters in counseling at Richmont Graduate University. I believe we all make sense in the context of our stories. When we look back into the past, we can bring new understanding to who we are. With this understanding comes healing and hope for the future. I hope to provide a safe place where you can process and explore your own story and begin heal from the different traumas and life hurts that you have experienced. I am passionate about walking alongside people of all ages as they discover who they are, and who they want to be, in the story of their life.
(678) 892-7187 View (678) 892-7187
Photo of Colleen P. Panunzio, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Colleen P. Panunzio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
Thank you for checking out my profile! I welcome any questions that you may have prior to scheduling. I'm accepting new patients and I have been in private practice for 24 years. I offer a direct and genuine approach in a supportive environment to help people identify their unhealthy patterns of behaviors that contribute to the difficulties in our lives. I believe in a person's ability to change. My goal is to provide the most effective therapeutic services in a safe, caring, and empathetic environment. I believe that while an understanding of the past is essential, positive change occurs in the present.
Thank you for checking out my profile! I welcome any questions that you may have prior to scheduling. I'm accepting new patients and I have been in private practice for 24 years. I offer a direct and genuine approach in a supportive environment to help people identify their unhealthy patterns of behaviors that contribute to the difficulties in our lives. I believe in a person's ability to change. My goal is to provide the most effective therapeutic services in a safe, caring, and empathetic environment. I believe that while an understanding of the past is essential, positive change occurs in the present.
(678) 735-5518 View (678) 735-5518
Photo of Sarah Houston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Sarah Houston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you have uncontrollable racing thoughts? Are you struggling to get rest or feel rested? Are you avoiding situations, places, or conversations so that you don’t have a sense of panic? Have you been told you're more irritable or “aren’t yourself” recently? Do you think your symptoms are getting in the way of your success or your relationships? I want to help you restore your peace, as you define it.
Do you feel like you have uncontrollable racing thoughts? Are you struggling to get rest or feel rested? Are you avoiding situations, places, or conversations so that you don’t have a sense of panic? Have you been told you're more irritable or “aren’t yourself” recently? Do you think your symptoms are getting in the way of your success or your relationships? I want to help you restore your peace, as you define it.
(678) 496-2988 View (678) 496-2988
Photo of Tracy R Limes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Tracy R Limes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
Most people seek counseling to find relief from pain and suffering. I believe counseling provides much more - not only a way to move away from suffering, but a way to move towards personal growth and discovering new possibilities. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside another in their journey towards healing and wholeness, while providing the safety of confidentiality and professional competency.
Most people seek counseling to find relief from pain and suffering. I believe counseling provides much more - not only a way to move away from suffering, but a way to move towards personal growth and discovering new possibilities. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside another in their journey towards healing and wholeness, while providing the safety of confidentiality and professional competency.
(770) 450-5140 View (770) 450-5140

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Woodstock, GA

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Woodstock, GA who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
75% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
63% Relationship Issues
63% Grief
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Woodstock, GA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Woodstock?

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.