Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Tao Wilkes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tao Wilkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Ohio with over eight years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma, and PTSD. My counseling style consists of Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing. It has been significant and rewarding to see how people walk out from problems, change, and have a happier life.
(614) 412-1914 View (614) 412-1914
Photo of Jill M. McCullough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jill M. McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
(614) 810-8949 View (614) 810-8949
Photo of Caitlin Leininger Kaglic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Caitlin Leininger Kaglic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I pride myself in centering as a holistic mental health provider, always growing within my journey as an Attachment, Trauma-Informed, Neurodivergent-Informed, LGBTQIA+ Ally and Advocate. I have experience working in healthcare and the community with individuals and families across the lifespan, accommodating treatment approaches to fit the needs of the client and the barriers they face. There are many paths that lead to healing, letting go of the “right way” allows us to find the good. I am working under the clinical supervision of Amy Bock, LPCC-S (License E1200545-SUPV)
I pride myself in centering as a holistic mental health provider, always growing within my journey as an Attachment, Trauma-Informed, Neurodivergent-Informed, LGBTQIA+ Ally and Advocate. I have experience working in healthcare and the community with individuals and families across the lifespan, accommodating treatment approaches to fit the needs of the client and the barriers they face. There are many paths that lead to healing, letting go of the “right way” allows us to find the good. I am working under the clinical supervision of Amy Bock, LPCC-S (License E1200545-SUPV)
(614) 705-0216 View (614) 705-0216
Photo of Grace Crawley, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Grace Crawley
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
(380) 207-0521 View (380) 207-0521
Photo of Sequoia Therapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sequoia Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
At Sequoia Therapy Group, our experienced and trained clinicians are committed to providing the highest level of mental health care possible. We offer a safe, warm and welcoming environment where growth and healing can take place. We believe in the power of the therapeutic journey, and take a collaborative approach to treatment to ensure that each client receives the right support for their unique needs.
At Sequoia Therapy Group, our experienced and trained clinicians are committed to providing the highest level of mental health care possible. We offer a safe, warm and welcoming environment where growth and healing can take place. We believe in the power of the therapeutic journey, and take a collaborative approach to treatment to ensure that each client receives the right support for their unique needs.
(380) 333-6307 View (380) 333-6307
Photo of Dawn M Puster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Dawn M Puster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
(380) 201-9110 View (380) 201-9110
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 Christina R Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Christina R Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, emotional management, poor self-esteem, experiencing grief and loss; who are motivated and open to change and doing homework, and who desire to be a healthier version of themselves.
I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, emotional management, poor self-esteem, experiencing grief and loss; who are motivated and open to change and doing homework, and who desire to be a healthier version of themselves.
(380) 205-0489 View (380) 205-0489
Photo of Lisa Riddle, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Riddle
Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
(614) 660-5965 View (614) 660-5965
Photo of Holly Graham, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Holly Graham
Counselor, LPCC, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
(614) 426-0076 View (614) 426-0076
Photo of Cindy Herzberg, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Cindy Herzberg
Counselor, EdD, LSW, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
I understand how difficult it can be to reach out to a stranger to discuss your most intimate life details. Daily people face many different struggles that lead them to contacting a therapist. I work very hard to make you feel at ease in this process by building a therapeutic relationship and using humor when appropriate. I acknowledge the vulnerability and strength it requires to make the first step to reach out for help. I provide a judgement free and supportive environment.
(614) 412-4124 View (614) 412-4124
Photo of 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 Andie Loiseau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Andie Loiseau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
(380) 333-9277 View (380) 333-9277
Photo of Tracy Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tracy Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Tracy Wheeler is a Licensed Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board. Tracy attended the University of North Georgia where she obtained a Bachelor of Science and continued her education at Indiana Wesleyan University where she earned a Master of Social Work. Tracy is able to work with multiple therapy styles to help individuals with their own unique needs.
Tracy Wheeler is a Licensed Social Worker through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board. Tracy attended the University of North Georgia where she obtained a Bachelor of Science and continued her education at Indiana Wesleyan University where she earned a Master of Social Work. Tracy is able to work with multiple therapy styles to help individuals with their own unique needs.
(380) 888-3146 View (380) 888-3146
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 Dr. Henry Stringer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Henry Stringer
Counselor, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
(614) 654-5912 View (614) 654-5912
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 Jenifer Sparks Schaffner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jenifer Sparks Schaffner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
I value compassion; we will work together in a non-judgmental, safe environment with active and honest communication. I am a therapist who is proactive and engaged; I believe in providing feedback and sharing my thoughts. I will work with you to identify your goals and help you achieve them.
I value compassion; we will work together in a non-judgmental, safe environment with active and honest communication. I am a therapist who is proactive and engaged; I believe in providing feedback and sharing my thoughts. I will work with you to identify your goals and help you achieve them.
(614) 845-6049 View (614) 845-6049
Photo of Clara Ann Huffman, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Clara Ann Huffman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
(614) 881-4729 View (614) 881-4729
Photo of Bonnie Frye, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Bonnie Frye
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
(380) 207-9079 View (380) 207-9079

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
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
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

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

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.