Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of New Heights Counseling Services, Counselor in Westerville, OH
New Heights Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I know when looking for counseling the process can seem daunting. You have to worry about specializations, openings, the time it will take to get to and from the appointment, not to mention the appointment itself. At New Heights we focus on making the process as easy as possible, from helping connect you to the best clinician within the practice to providing the most advanced treatment options we can. You matter and we want to help you achieve not just your mental health goals but making joy a part of your life.
I know when looking for counseling the process can seem daunting. You have to worry about specializations, openings, the time it will take to get to and from the appointment, not to mention the appointment itself. At New Heights we focus on making the process as easy as possible, from helping connect you to the best clinician within the practice to providing the most advanced treatment options we can. You matter and we want to help you achieve not just your mental health goals but making joy a part of your life.
(614) 957-2645 View (614) 957-2645
Photo of Cassandra Tapia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Cassandra Tapia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
(380) 205-0144 View (380) 205-0144
Photo of Dayamiaha Ja'nean Jones, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dayamiaha Ja'nean Jones
Counselor, BA, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
Dayamiaha Jones is the owner of Day by Day Counseling Group LLC. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the State of Ohio. Dayamiaha earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from Ohio Dominican University. She then studied Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling at Walden University earning a Master of Science in 2019.
Dayamiaha Jones is the owner of Day by Day Counseling Group LLC. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the State of Ohio. Dayamiaha earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from Ohio Dominican University. She then studied Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling at Walden University earning a Master of Science in 2019.
(380) 208-1770 View (380) 208-1770
Photo of Walter Poupart, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Walter Poupart
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
As a licensed professional clinical counselor I diagnose and treat individuals, adolescents, adults, couples, and families contending with a wide range of mental and emotional disorders, and specialize in men’s issues. I offer therapy for: depression, stress & anxiety, pastoral counseling, grief, certain phobias, co-dependency, types of trauma, anger management, spiritual formation, individuals hurt in relationships, and relational recovery. I do not counsel with individual women, only couples, pre-marital, married couples, and families in conflict. I also work with male adolescents and teen males with the parent’s participation.
As a licensed professional clinical counselor I diagnose and treat individuals, adolescents, adults, couples, and families contending with a wide range of mental and emotional disorders, and specialize in men’s issues. I offer therapy for: depression, stress & anxiety, pastoral counseling, grief, certain phobias, co-dependency, types of trauma, anger management, spiritual formation, individuals hurt in relationships, and relational recovery. I do not counsel with individual women, only couples, pre-marital, married couples, and families in conflict. I also work with male adolescents and teen males with the parent’s participation.
(614) 942-8740 View (614) 942-8740
Photo of Collin Weekes, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Collin Weekes
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
I am a therapist, EMDR Therapist, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, and a proud graduate of Regent University where I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. My focus includes depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. I conduct Immigration Evaluations using an integrative approach to therapy that includes various treatment modalities based on your therapeutic and personal needs. Because of my service in ministry, I am uniquely positioned to offer spiritual counseling from a Christian perspective at your request.
I am a therapist, EMDR Therapist, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, and a proud graduate of Regent University where I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. My focus includes depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. I conduct Immigration Evaluations using an integrative approach to therapy that includes various treatment modalities based on your therapeutic and personal needs. Because of my service in ministry, I am uniquely positioned to offer spiritual counseling from a Christian perspective at your request.
(380) 207-1462 View (380) 207-1462
Photo of Julia Dee in Westerville, OH
Julia Dee
LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
(937) 858-6433 View (937) 858-6433
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 Alex Childs, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Alex Childs
Counselor, LPCC, MSE
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Seeking out a therapist is a powerful act of self-love and compassion. It’s a commitment to yourself that you're worthy of help and you're ready for change. I work with individuals and couples, from a warm approach of collaboratively changing your life for the better. I specialize in treating areas of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-image, sexuality, gender, identity, and relationships.
Seeking out a therapist is a powerful act of self-love and compassion. It’s a commitment to yourself that you're worthy of help and you're ready for change. I work with individuals and couples, from a warm approach of collaboratively changing your life for the better. I specialize in treating areas of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-image, sexuality, gender, identity, and relationships.
(380) 210-5114 View (380) 210-5114
Photo of Barry Chenault, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Barry Chenault
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Barry Chenault is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. He has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Ohio University and a master's degree from the University of Dayton in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Barry Chenault is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. He has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Ohio University and a master's degree from the University of Dayton in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(380) 205-2241 View (380) 205-2241
Photo of Abby Zou, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Abby Zou
Licensed Professional Counselor, BE, MDes, MCS, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I enter counseling because I have grown up with some trauma and walked through healing myself. Also, I have been serving college students at a nonprofit organization for 10 years, some of them are struggling mental health issues. I understand how life can be hard, overwhelming, and out of control sometimes. But never give up, there is always hope! If you are in difficult situations, I am compassionate and passionate for you to find a safe place to rest, be listened, get healed, find your purpose, and live a thriving life.
I enter counseling because I have grown up with some trauma and walked through healing myself. Also, I have been serving college students at a nonprofit organization for 10 years, some of them are struggling mental health issues. I understand how life can be hard, overwhelming, and out of control sometimes. But never give up, there is always hope! If you are in difficult situations, I am compassionate and passionate for you to find a safe place to rest, be listened, get healed, find your purpose, and live a thriving life.
(380) 333-4500 x718 View (380) 333-4500 x718
Photo of Contessa Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Contessa Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
(614) 963-3033 View (614) 963-3033
Photo of Carol E McClure, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Carol E McClure
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
(614) 980-0093 View (614) 980-0093
Photo of Mercedes Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mercedes Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
As a mental health therapist, I strive to create a space safe enough for individuals to be vulnerable enough to be "them." Vulnerable enough to laugh and cry in therapy, while also being heard and challenged in a healthy manner. As a therapeutic team, we will work together to embrace vulnerability, while embracing a healthier version of you.
As a mental health therapist, I strive to create a space safe enough for individuals to be vulnerable enough to be "them." Vulnerable enough to laugh and cry in therapy, while also being heard and challenged in a healthy manner. As a therapeutic team, we will work together to embrace vulnerability, while embracing a healthier version of you.
(614) 697-1202 View (614) 697-1202
Photo of Vincent Colecchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Vincent Colecchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
(614) 683-4566 View (614) 683-4566
Photo of Patricia Ringold, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Patricia Ringold
Counselor, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
(614) 957-2845 View (614) 957-2845
Photo of Jack Hambrick, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Westerville, OH
Jack Hambrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-T
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Immediate opening available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
Immediate opening available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
(740) 791-0357 View (740) 791-0357
Edwin C Huston
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My life experiences and education have contributed to my interactive CBT approach towards counseling. This approach is a combination of compassion, encouragement and reflective therapeutic focus towards growth and change. My therapy experience includes a successful career in telecommunications, changing careers to provide 15 years of therapeutic guidance in individual, group and family settings.
My life experiences and education have contributed to my interactive CBT approach towards counseling. This approach is a combination of compassion, encouragement and reflective therapeutic focus towards growth and change. My therapy experience includes a successful career in telecommunications, changing careers to provide 15 years of therapeutic guidance in individual, group and family settings.
(614) 714-6665 View (614) 714-6665
Photo of Mary K Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mary K Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health counseling to address life issues of stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, work issues, relationships, sexual issues and family dynamic issues. I enjoy helping individuals learn new coping skills for depression and anxiety. I also specialize with individuals who have trauma and grief and will help you resolve those issues. I especially enjoy working with families and couples in learning how to resolve conflict and improve intimacy, communication and trust issues. My belief is that Life is a journey and at some point, we all need help.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health counseling to address life issues of stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, work issues, relationships, sexual issues and family dynamic issues. I enjoy helping individuals learn new coping skills for depression and anxiety. I also specialize with individuals who have trauma and grief and will help you resolve those issues. I especially enjoy working with families and couples in learning how to resolve conflict and improve intimacy, communication and trust issues. My belief is that Life is a journey and at some point, we all need help.
(614) 702-2581 View (614) 702-2581
Photo of Lara K Palay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Lara K Palay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
(614) 389-9146 View (614) 389-9146
Photo of Nichole Redic, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Nichole Redic
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, PCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
(614) 802-5717 View (614) 802-5717

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
89% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Self Esteem
65% Grief
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
76% Optum
69% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% 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.