Therapists in Memphis, TN

View neighborhoods in Memphis
Photo of Ferren Family Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Ferren Family Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38104
Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness, and other feelings that are difficult from time to time. When emotional or behavioral problems are disrupting your life, it may be time to reach out for help. At FFC, we offer Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Telehealth, Consultation, and Community Education as means to help our community "Learn. Heal. Thrive."
Everyone experiences feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness, and other feelings that are difficult from time to time. When emotional or behavioral problems are disrupting your life, it may be time to reach out for help. At FFC, we offer Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Telehealth, Consultation, and Community Education as means to help our community "Learn. Heal. Thrive."
(901) 410-9194 View (901) 410-9194
Photo of Savannah Burton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Savannah Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP, S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Do you feel disconnected from your life? Are you wondering if what you're feeling is "normal?" My therapeutic mission is to provide clients with clear guidance, compassionate encouragement, and sound accountability in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My style is relational, direct, and genuine.
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Do you feel disconnected from your life? Are you wondering if what you're feeling is "normal?" My therapeutic mission is to provide clients with clear guidance, compassionate encouragement, and sound accountability in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My style is relational, direct, and genuine.
(901) 910-1229 View (901) 910-1229
Photo of Amanda Russell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Amanda Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I love to work with individuals who have a desire to make a change in their lives but don't know where to start or who find themselves getting in their own way. I believe that everyone has the ability to make positive changes in their lives when given the opportunity to be heard, valued, and supported. I do everything in my power to make my counseling office a safe place for clients to share their stories, process difficult experiences, and practice new ways of responding. I enjoy working with teens over the age of 13 and adults. I also provide clinical supervision and consultation to organizations.
I love to work with individuals who have a desire to make a change in their lives but don't know where to start or who find themselves getting in their own way. I believe that everyone has the ability to make positive changes in their lives when given the opportunity to be heard, valued, and supported. I do everything in my power to make my counseling office a safe place for clients to share their stories, process difficult experiences, and practice new ways of responding. I enjoy working with teens over the age of 13 and adults. I also provide clinical supervision and consultation to organizations.
(901) 445-9286 View (901) 445-9286
Photo of Cynthia Lu'aune Poole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Cynthia Lu'aune Poole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38111
Waitlist for new clients
Often, we find ourselves traveling through life not trusting to share our challenges, thoughts and feelings with the external world. Together we can explore what you’re facing. Whether you’re experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Attachments and Negative Thinking, you don’t have to make the journey alone. My treatment approach enhances the Wholistic Person. I am someone that will work alongside of you in a safe and trusting environment. “You Only Need a Heart Full of Grace and a Soul Generated by Love" ~ Dr. Martin Luther King "Together We're Better".
Often, we find ourselves traveling through life not trusting to share our challenges, thoughts and feelings with the external world. Together we can explore what you’re facing. Whether you’re experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Attachments and Negative Thinking, you don’t have to make the journey alone. My treatment approach enhances the Wholistic Person. I am someone that will work alongside of you in a safe and trusting environment. “You Only Need a Heart Full of Grace and a Soul Generated by Love" ~ Dr. Martin Luther King "Together We're Better".
(901) 460-3447 View (901) 460-3447
Photo of Rachel Veteto, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Rachel Veteto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
I understand reaching out for help takes courage and bravery. I believe that we all need support in our lives to navigate the inevitable difficulties that arise. I hope to create a safe and empathetic space for you as you go through life’s challenges. I have experience working with children and adults who have experienced sexual abuse, partner abuse, grief and loss, and other forms of trauma. My goal as your therapist is to help you to gain confidence as you work through difficult situations. No issue is too big or too small.
I understand reaching out for help takes courage and bravery. I believe that we all need support in our lives to navigate the inevitable difficulties that arise. I hope to create a safe and empathetic space for you as you go through life’s challenges. I have experience working with children and adults who have experienced sexual abuse, partner abuse, grief and loss, and other forms of trauma. My goal as your therapist is to help you to gain confidence as you work through difficult situations. No issue is too big or too small.
(901) 673-3531 x402 View (901) 673-3531 x402
Photo of Taylor LaPorte, Pre-Licensed Professional in Memphis, TN
Taylor LaPorte
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
Over the past 3 years, I have dedicated myself to those dealing with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma. With almost 2 decades of personal recovery, I understand how the eating disorder can affect your ability to move forward in life, especially when there are coinciding disorders. The realization that you may need help takes a certain amount of courage and I’m here to walk along side you on that journey to recovery so you can fulfill your dreams. It will be hard, uncomfortable, and sometimes won’t seem worth it, but I assure you, there is more to life and you have the capability to heal.
Over the past 3 years, I have dedicated myself to those dealing with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma. With almost 2 decades of personal recovery, I understand how the eating disorder can affect your ability to move forward in life, especially when there are coinciding disorders. The realization that you may need help takes a certain amount of courage and I’m here to walk along side you on that journey to recovery so you can fulfill your dreams. It will be hard, uncomfortable, and sometimes won’t seem worth it, but I assure you, there is more to life and you have the capability to heal.
(901) 563-3243 View (901) 563-3243
Photo of Kimberly B. Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Kimberly B. Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38132
Waitlist for new clients
I believe a counselor’s role isn’t to tell you how to live your life, but to assist you with determining what you want your life to be and the steps to achieving that life and your goals. Therapy is a collaborative process and I want to be your partner on your journey.
I believe a counselor’s role isn’t to tell you how to live your life, but to assist you with determining what you want your life to be and the steps to achieving that life and your goals. Therapy is a collaborative process and I want to be your partner on your journey.
(901) 295-0889 View (901) 295-0889
Photo of Jane Abraham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Jane Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LADAC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104
Not accepting new clients
I have been working in the substance use and mental health fields for 36 years. My business, The Healing Arts Research Training Center, LLC (DBA The HART Center), is in Midtown Memphis, TN. As an EMDR practitioner, I specialize in helping folks heal from trauma and using substances to mask their trauma responses. I would genuinely love an opportunity to assist you in discovering trauma that has held you back from finding meaning and purpose in your life. Let us begin your journey toward fulfillment and joy.
I have been working in the substance use and mental health fields for 36 years. My business, The Healing Arts Research Training Center, LLC (DBA The HART Center), is in Midtown Memphis, TN. As an EMDR practitioner, I specialize in helping folks heal from trauma and using substances to mask their trauma responses. I would genuinely love an opportunity to assist you in discovering trauma that has held you back from finding meaning and purpose in your life. Let us begin your journey toward fulfillment and joy.
(901) 657-5216 View (901) 657-5216
Photo of The Legacy Wellness Group, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
The Legacy Wellness Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38103  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated? Do you feel that you just don't know how to move forward? Are you frustrated that life just doesn’t seem to be moving in the direction you’d like it to go? Maybe you're overwhelmed with negative thoughts, patterns, and past experiences. Life happens all over our plans sometimes, which can hinder our progress and impact our daily quality of life. It can be hard to determine how to move forward, where to start, and develop a concrete plan without getting stressed beyond a level we can manage.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated? Do you feel that you just don't know how to move forward? Are you frustrated that life just doesn’t seem to be moving in the direction you’d like it to go? Maybe you're overwhelmed with negative thoughts, patterns, and past experiences. Life happens all over our plans sometimes, which can hinder our progress and impact our daily quality of life. It can be hard to determine how to move forward, where to start, and develop a concrete plan without getting stressed beyond a level we can manage.
(901) 479-1361 View (901) 479-1361
Photo of Our Counseling Services , Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Our Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, MHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104  (Online Only)
Dr. Hogan obtained her doctorate from Mississippi College, Fall of 2020. In 2015, she earned her Master’s of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Renita provides individual therapy as well as clinical supervision. She is licensed in both MS and TN. Her concentration areas include, but are not limited to; Mood disorders, (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders and more) Family therapy and Addiction/Dual Diagnoses. Psychotic disorders, concomitant issues, emotional disturbances, etc.
Dr. Hogan obtained her doctorate from Mississippi College, Fall of 2020. In 2015, she earned her Master’s of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Renita provides individual therapy as well as clinical supervision. She is licensed in both MS and TN. Her concentration areas include, but are not limited to; Mood disorders, (Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders and more) Family therapy and Addiction/Dual Diagnoses. Psychotic disorders, concomitant issues, emotional disturbances, etc.
(901) 673-9651 View (901) 673-9651
Photo of W Trevor Winfrey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Memphis, TN
W Trevor Winfrey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I enjoy working with clients of all types! However, I specialize in working with individuals who are dealing with significant feelings of anxiety and/or depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. If you are ready to make the change to live the life you want, I'd be elated to help you begin and walk that journey together. Let's get a consultation scheduled and see if we are a good fit!
I enjoy working with clients of all types! However, I specialize in working with individuals who are dealing with significant feelings of anxiety and/or depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. If you are ready to make the change to live the life you want, I'd be elated to help you begin and walk that journey together. Let's get a consultation scheduled and see if we are a good fit!
(901) 472-8973 View (901) 472-8973
Photo of Lisa A. Maners, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Lisa A. Maners
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression can hold you back because fear can stop you from making the positive change needed for creating harmony and peace in your life. I provide a confidential, non-judgmental, and accepting environment to process the influences of family patterns, personal history, and social expectations that may or may not match your authentic inner self. Together, we will find effective strategies to manage the causes of your anxiety so that you may experience inner peace, harmony, and self-confidence. I use a mindfulness-based approach to empower people as they engage in self-discovery or work through interpersonal conflict.
Anxiety and depression can hold you back because fear can stop you from making the positive change needed for creating harmony and peace in your life. I provide a confidential, non-judgmental, and accepting environment to process the influences of family patterns, personal history, and social expectations that may or may not match your authentic inner self. Together, we will find effective strategies to manage the causes of your anxiety so that you may experience inner peace, harmony, and self-confidence. I use a mindfulness-based approach to empower people as they engage in self-discovery or work through interpersonal conflict.
(901) 245-5403 View (901) 245-5403
Photo of Margarite Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Margarite Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38137
Not accepting new clients
***NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), and a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). My practice encompasses children, adolescent and adults living with Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)/other related disorders, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Tics/Tourette’s, ADHD, PTSD/trauma, and Insomnia. I also have an extensive background in treating individuals with Co-occurring Disorders and I provide Department of Transportation (DOT) Evaluations as a Substance Abuse Professional.
***NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), and a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). My practice encompasses children, adolescent and adults living with Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)/other related disorders, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Tics/Tourette’s, ADHD, PTSD/trauma, and Insomnia. I also have an extensive background in treating individuals with Co-occurring Disorders and I provide Department of Transportation (DOT) Evaluations as a Substance Abuse Professional.
(901) 390-9893 View (901) 390-9893
Photo of LaTraci Aldridge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
LaTraci Aldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
My mission is to empower clients with knowledge about themselves and their strengths. Furthermore, I will work clients to help them identify their truth as it relates to their lives. I seek to help clients pull from within themselves the strength needed to persevere and overcome daily life obstacles and struggles. I hope to have clients find their own strength to work through their issues. I aspire for clients to celebrate the small wins and use that to push them to greater gains.
My mission is to empower clients with knowledge about themselves and their strengths. Furthermore, I will work clients to help them identify their truth as it relates to their lives. I seek to help clients pull from within themselves the strength needed to persevere and overcome daily life obstacles and struggles. I hope to have clients find their own strength to work through their issues. I aspire for clients to celebrate the small wins and use that to push them to greater gains.
(901) 582-8063 View (901) 582-8063
Photo of Morgan Elyse Crenshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Memphis, TN
Morgan Elyse Crenshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, life changes, relationship issues, grief and loss, domestic violence, eating disorders, and those who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or trauma. I have also worked in the field of hospice and terminal illness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, life changes, relationship issues, grief and loss, domestic violence, eating disorders, and those who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or trauma. I have also worked in the field of hospice and terminal illness.
(901) 350-5263 View (901) 350-5263
Photo of Charles Boyd Lindsey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Memphis, TN
Charles Boyd Lindsey
Pre-Licensed Professional, DMin, MDiv, MRE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38118  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can throw us a major curve; sometimes a lot of smaller curve balls can hit us all at once. Sometimes the faith of our childhood is no longer serving us well, and causing us more conflict and trauma than comfort. Sometimes painful memories can resurface and dominate our lives. Many times we feel we’re experiencing these things alone, when, in fact, most of us go through them. Sometimes it’s helpful to have someone to talk with and help us gain needed perspective. I specialize in helping folks integrate these and other issues into a more coherent, whole outlook.
Sometimes life can throw us a major curve; sometimes a lot of smaller curve balls can hit us all at once. Sometimes the faith of our childhood is no longer serving us well, and causing us more conflict and trauma than comfort. Sometimes painful memories can resurface and dominate our lives. Many times we feel we’re experiencing these things alone, when, in fact, most of us go through them. Sometimes it’s helpful to have someone to talk with and help us gain needed perspective. I specialize in helping folks integrate these and other issues into a more coherent, whole outlook.
(901) 621-3289 View (901) 621-3289
Photo of Christopher Ferrand, Psychologist in Memphis, TN
Christopher Ferrand
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
Imagine a world where you have the tools and know how to feel your feelings in ways that promote well-being. You experience memories, but you are able to work through them. You know and believe that you are not defined by what happened to you, by a diagnosis, or by the words of other people. You have tools to help manage your thoughts. You can pause and make conscious choices that match your values when you are having strong feelings. You can live freely and fully and do things that matter to you—even if doing so brings about strong feelings. Now, imagine that while holding lightly any beliefs about what is possible and what is not.
Imagine a world where you have the tools and know how to feel your feelings in ways that promote well-being. You experience memories, but you are able to work through them. You know and believe that you are not defined by what happened to you, by a diagnosis, or by the words of other people. You have tools to help manage your thoughts. You can pause and make conscious choices that match your values when you are having strong feelings. You can live freely and fully and do things that matter to you—even if doing so brings about strong feelings. Now, imagine that while holding lightly any beliefs about what is possible and what is not.
(901) 586-1898 View (901) 586-1898
Photo of Paul M Dunaway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Paul M Dunaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, CCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
Change can be a difficult thing to accomplish on your own when the methods you have tried in the past have been unsuccessful. Sometimes it requires someone asking the hard questions that you have avoided or the questions you didn't know to ask yourself. If you are looking to make positive changes in your life then it may be time to enlist the help of a licensed counselor.
Change can be a difficult thing to accomplish on your own when the methods you have tried in the past have been unsuccessful. Sometimes it requires someone asking the hard questions that you have avoided or the questions you didn't know to ask yourself. If you are looking to make positive changes in your life then it may be time to enlist the help of a licensed counselor.
(901) 446-2914 View (901) 446-2914
Photo of Elizabeth A Harris, Psychologist in Memphis, TN
Elizabeth A Harris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a clinical psychologist who's been in practice over 30 years. I currently work with children 3 years old to 11 years old, skip adolescence, and work with individual adults challenged by issues such as anxiety, depression, divorce adjustment and grief and loss. My original area of specialty was with pre-schoolers and young children up to 11 years old. I utilize techniques of play therapy, including sandbox therapy and mutual storytelling. My work with children, of course, includes parent guidance. Techniques with adults include: psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness.
I'm a clinical psychologist who's been in practice over 30 years. I currently work with children 3 years old to 11 years old, skip adolescence, and work with individual adults challenged by issues such as anxiety, depression, divorce adjustment and grief and loss. My original area of specialty was with pre-schoolers and young children up to 11 years old. I utilize techniques of play therapy, including sandbox therapy and mutual storytelling. My work with children, of course, includes parent guidance. Techniques with adults include: psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness.
(901) 617-7147 View (901) 617-7147
Photo of Valerie Ann McKinney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Memphis, TN
Valerie Ann McKinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38109  (Online Only)
Valerie McKinney is a Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health Care Provider. She enjoys working with adults (18 and over) who are interested in addressing issues that are holding them back or hindering them from reaching their potential in any or all areas of their lives. She has experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief issues, forgiveness issues, and other life stressors.
Valerie McKinney is a Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health Care Provider. She enjoys working with adults (18 and over) who are interested in addressing issues that are holding them back or hindering them from reaching their potential in any or all areas of their lives. She has experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief issues, forgiveness issues, and other life stressors.
(662) 339-1906 View (662) 339-1906

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Memphis, TN

500+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Memphis, TN who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
70% Coping Skills
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Cigna and Evernorth
69% Aetna
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Memphis, TN see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Memphis?

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.