Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI
Dr. Chris Olson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I have been in private practice for 33 years having the privilege of serving individuals and couples in our community. I've gained a solid understanding of the struggles we face navigating the difficulties of life. My knowledge and compassion facilitate growth and healing for individuals within their selves and in their relationships. My style of therapy is one of warmth and engaging with each person in the story of their life and the difficulties within that. It is my intention to create an open and inviting atmosphere for people to explore themselves, their relationships, and the environment which they live.
I have been in private practice for 33 years having the privilege of serving individuals and couples in our community. I've gained a solid understanding of the struggles we face navigating the difficulties of life. My knowledge and compassion facilitate growth and healing for individuals within their selves and in their relationships. My style of therapy is one of warmth and engaging with each person in the story of their life and the difficulties within that. It is my intention to create an open and inviting atmosphere for people to explore themselves, their relationships, and the environment which they live.
Maggie Severe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Hello. I work with late teens, young adults and adults as they meet the challenge of difficult emotions such as: sadness, anxiety, loneliness, frustration, anger, fear, disappointment, grief. Navigating what a full life has to offer can be complicated and at times surprising; relationship problems, school issues, parenting concerns, family conflict, multicultural issues can leave us feeling uncertain and alone. Life transitions can bring their own unique challenges: marriage/partnering, pregnancy, childbirth, medical and/or mental health diagnoses, divorce, blending family, death and dying each can challenge our usual coping skills.
Hello. I work with late teens, young adults and adults as they meet the challenge of difficult emotions such as: sadness, anxiety, loneliness, frustration, anger, fear, disappointment, grief. Navigating what a full life has to offer can be complicated and at times surprising; relationship problems, school issues, parenting concerns, family conflict, multicultural issues can leave us feeling uncertain and alone. Life transitions can bring their own unique challenges: marriage/partnering, pregnancy, childbirth, medical and/or mental health diagnoses, divorce, blending family, death and dying each can challenge our usual coping skills.
Falon Shepeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping clients discover their goals for themselves and learn healthy new coping skills and behavioral techniques to reach those goals. I will join you in your journey of change and personal growth while providing you with support, encouragement, compassion and empathy. My goal is to help all who step into my office to build resilience and improve their mental health. There is strength in realizing we can do hard things, and encouragement in seeing ourselves do them with support!
I am passionate about helping clients discover their goals for themselves and learn healthy new coping skills and behavioral techniques to reach those goals. I will join you in your journey of change and personal growth while providing you with support, encouragement, compassion and empathy. My goal is to help all who step into my office to build resilience and improve their mental health. There is strength in realizing we can do hard things, and encouragement in seeing ourselves do them with support!
Kim Powers
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, ADS, MITS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
Waitlist for new clients
Be proud of yourself for reaching out for help. Are you in need of a safe space to feel feelings, process hurt, and challenge yourself to grow? Do you have specific goals you want to address? Or not sure where to start? I believe sometimes the hardest things to talk about are the best things to talk about. I am honored to be featured in Voyage Magazine in the "Hidden Gems Series: Local Businesses and Creatives you should know." I want to help you identify, process, and express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns in a healthy way. You, too, can heal, grow, & learn. Let's work together to help you feel better & experience wellness.
Be proud of yourself for reaching out for help. Are you in need of a safe space to feel feelings, process hurt, and challenge yourself to grow? Do you have specific goals you want to address? Or not sure where to start? I believe sometimes the hardest things to talk about are the best things to talk about. I am honored to be featured in Voyage Magazine in the "Hidden Gems Series: Local Businesses and Creatives you should know." I want to help you identify, process, and express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns in a healthy way. You, too, can heal, grow, & learn. Let's work together to help you feel better & experience wellness.
Chosen, PLLC
Psychologist, LP, LPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
You have just made a very important step towards finding your healing. Our providers are well-trained and prepared to address your concerns and meet your mental health needs. Chosen, PLLC is a safe, collaborative space for you to explore, learn, grow, and develop skills to help you create the life you desire. If you are tired of your current situation or otherwise just feel like a change is in order, you are in the right place.
You have just made a very important step towards finding your healing. Our providers are well-trained and prepared to address your concerns and meet your mental health needs. Chosen, PLLC is a safe, collaborative space for you to explore, learn, grow, and develop skills to help you create the life you desire. If you are tired of your current situation or otherwise just feel like a change is in order, you are in the right place.
Leah Condit
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have or suspect you have ADHD? Has social media, yes TikTok/instagram, lead you to suspect you may have ADHD but don't know where to start. I'm passionate about helping you understand ADHD, how it affects YOU and what you can do with it. ADHD is widely misunderstood as a lack of focus or attention. ADHD is more accurately an issue of regulation which includes emotions, impulsivity, money, attention, sensory sensitivity etc. I work with clients on managing the symptoms of ADHD, the shame, guilt, anxiety and depression that stem from having ADHD in our society. Let's work together to create an environment that suits your brain.
Do you have or suspect you have ADHD? Has social media, yes TikTok/instagram, lead you to suspect you may have ADHD but don't know where to start. I'm passionate about helping you understand ADHD, how it affects YOU and what you can do with it. ADHD is widely misunderstood as a lack of focus or attention. ADHD is more accurately an issue of regulation which includes emotions, impulsivity, money, attention, sensory sensitivity etc. I work with clients on managing the symptoms of ADHD, the shame, guilt, anxiety and depression that stem from having ADHD in our society. Let's work together to create an environment that suits your brain.
Chantelle Patel
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Starting therapy can be a tough choice to make. I am here to provide support, empathy, and a safe space as you take this journey into healing and self-growth.I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where you and I work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and goals. My approach is client-centered, meaning that your concerns and needs come first in sessions. I provide a non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and work towards the changes you seek in your life.
Starting therapy can be a tough choice to make. I am here to provide support, empathy, and a safe space as you take this journey into healing and self-growth.I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where you and I work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and goals. My approach is client-centered, meaning that your concerns and needs come first in sessions. I provide a non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and work towards the changes you seek in your life.
Ray Brandon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
The most important relationships in our lives sometimes feel like they are the most difficult. Clients that come to me are feeling "stuck" in their relationships with a marriage partner, or family member. They come asking how they can be better connected, feel closer and reduce conflict.
The most important relationships in our lives sometimes feel like they are the most difficult. Clients that come to me are feeling "stuck" in their relationships with a marriage partner, or family member. They come asking how they can be better connected, feel closer and reduce conflict.
Brigette Sitarski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I approach counseling as a partnership. I will work alongside you, help you sort through difficulties, and move forward. Together we can unravel issues preventing you from optimizing your full potential. I strive to understand each unique perspective and encourage action guided by your values.
I approach counseling as a partnership. I will work alongside you, help you sort through difficulties, and move forward. Together we can unravel issues preventing you from optimizing your full potential. I strive to understand each unique perspective and encourage action guided by your values.
Barbara W Gustin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Not accepting new clients
My compassion for all beings began long ago and has been the cornerstone of my personal and professional life. It is the compelling reason I practice counseling. I am profoundly aware of the vast amounts of suffering we all experience throughout our lives. Experiencing and releasing this pain is the goal. I believe in the emergence of self knowledge, positive energy and right action as fear and resistance are diminished. I prefer not to label conditions and symptoms ,but strive to fully understand and appreciate the individual sitting before me.
My compassion for all beings began long ago and has been the cornerstone of my personal and professional life. It is the compelling reason I practice counseling. I am profoundly aware of the vast amounts of suffering we all experience throughout our lives. Experiencing and releasing this pain is the goal. I believe in the emergence of self knowledge, positive energy and right action as fear and resistance are diminished. I prefer not to label conditions and symptoms ,but strive to fully understand and appreciate the individual sitting before me.
Stephen Francis Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Not accepting new clients
Finding the right therapist can be difficult; asking for help is never easy. I honor the personal struggles, relationship dynamics, and life experiences that have brought you to this moment. As your therapist, I will create a collaborative, safe space in which to heal, developing a plan that focuses on your unique needs and goals. I believe that therapy is about empowering you to navigate life's difficulties by teaching skills and exploring paths that will help you thrive. As a partner in this process, I will uphold your right to choose what is best for you, and I will use my training, compassion, and curiosity to guide us.
Finding the right therapist can be difficult; asking for help is never easy. I honor the personal struggles, relationship dynamics, and life experiences that have brought you to this moment. As your therapist, I will create a collaborative, safe space in which to heal, developing a plan that focuses on your unique needs and goals. I believe that therapy is about empowering you to navigate life's difficulties by teaching skills and exploring paths that will help you thrive. As a partner in this process, I will uphold your right to choose what is best for you, and I will use my training, compassion, and curiosity to guide us.
15 Second Videos
Kim Powers
David Gregg
Nicole (Wells) Parker
Elondra Varice
Kimberly Gregory MA, LMSW
The Anxiety Treatment Ctr of West Michigan, PLLC
Valarie Cunningham/The Synergy Health Center
Gen Manders
Wicks Therapy PLLC
Liz Cary
Benjamin James Stuebs
Cricket L Alexander
Esther Garcia Thriving Mariposa Online Counseling
Nicole Boxer
Lucy Sternburgh
Dr. Kimberly Thorpe DSW, LMSW Counseling
Ana Mayari Diaz
Paul Hoskins Counseling LLC
Moriah VanOrder
Joyce Obermeyer Pines
Elise Trim
Kalamazoo Empowerment Services, PLC
Rudi Betzold
S.C. Nash Counseling & Consulting
Starr Bull
Charles D. Thomas
Heather Crampton
Kathleen Irvin
Timothy Henson
Tyler Boris
MJR Wellness Counseling, PLLC
Karissa B. Wright
Hayley Sanchez
Joseph Forrest
Tamara Spears
Robb Kornoelje
Jessica Pollman
Felisha Spence
Latrice Robbins - Grief And Trauma Therapist
Tristen Davis
Melinda Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years and I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, community mental health, employee assistance, and now private practice. What I love most about what I do is learning and understanding my clients' individual histories and current life situations. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" treatment plan, everyone's story is unique and their story has to be heard. My clients and I work as a team to figure out what the goals of therapy are and to try to reach those goals as best as we can. My job is to guide, not lead, a client on their journey.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years and I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, community mental health, employee assistance, and now private practice. What I love most about what I do is learning and understanding my clients' individual histories and current life situations. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" treatment plan, everyone's story is unique and their story has to be heard. My clients and I work as a team to figure out what the goals of therapy are and to try to reach those goals as best as we can. My job is to guide, not lead, a client on their journey.
Broghan Gamble
Counselor, MA, LLC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
As a counselor, I am passionate about the process of discovering one's true self. There is something so powerful about the therapy experience. Being able to connect with another human on a therapeutic level while on the journey to finding your authentic self is compelling. My goal is to allow a space for people to connect with themselves and their emotions. I believe in the healing process of therapy and the importance of empowering clients to take charge of their lives. I acknowledge the stigma of entering a counseling relationship and work to advocate for client's mental health.
As a counselor, I am passionate about the process of discovering one's true self. There is something so powerful about the therapy experience. Being able to connect with another human on a therapeutic level while on the journey to finding your authentic self is compelling. My goal is to allow a space for people to connect with themselves and their emotions. I believe in the healing process of therapy and the importance of empowering clients to take charge of their lives. I acknowledge the stigma of entering a counseling relationship and work to advocate for client's mental health.
Linda L Herrin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ITCA, PLLC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
You are not broken, you are deeply hurt. It is easy to find yourself in unhelpful patterns & ways of being. This might be due to your nervous system being flooded with anger, fear & despair. In a creative way to survive, you have found self-protection strategies. Unfortunately, these strategies are likely no longer helpful. Part of our work together will be unraveling this muscle memory to reveal how you can live a life that is true to you. YOU become the place of self-awareness, peaceful acceptance & intentional action. As a certified trauma professional & art therapist, I integrate these tools into our therapeutic work.
You are not broken, you are deeply hurt. It is easy to find yourself in unhelpful patterns & ways of being. This might be due to your nervous system being flooded with anger, fear & despair. In a creative way to survive, you have found self-protection strategies. Unfortunately, these strategies are likely no longer helpful. Part of our work together will be unraveling this muscle memory to reveal how you can live a life that is true to you. YOU become the place of self-awareness, peaceful acceptance & intentional action. As a certified trauma professional & art therapist, I integrate these tools into our therapeutic work.
Daren Fox
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
Having trouble dealing with anxiety, loneliness or need someone to listen without judgment, I may be the right therapist for you. I am open to working with adults from a variety of backgrounds and challenges. As an African American from a low-income background, I am inspired to help individuals cope with systemic issues affecting your identity. As a former student from Western Michigan University, my experience with people from different countries, spiritual beliefs or sexual orientations is an open privilege to learn from. My approach as an advocate and assistant navigator, I will work with you to meet your goals.
Having trouble dealing with anxiety, loneliness or need someone to listen without judgment, I may be the right therapist for you. I am open to working with adults from a variety of backgrounds and challenges. As an African American from a low-income background, I am inspired to help individuals cope with systemic issues affecting your identity. As a former student from Western Michigan University, my experience with people from different countries, spiritual beliefs or sexual orientations is an open privilege to learn from. My approach as an advocate and assistant navigator, I will work with you to meet your goals.
Christine D Weiss
Counselor, MA, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Our world is a busy and complicated place, full of impersonal demands and unrealistic expectations. Living our lives on full display in the digital age can make it even more difficult to find true authenticity, peace and fulfillment. What we really need is the opportunity to pause and take a look at what we truly want for ourselves, and whether our energy and gifts are being used in pursuit of our purpose and passion. Counseling offers this opportunity for self-examination, along with the chance to expand coping skills, develop personal strengths, and solidify and repair relationships.
Our world is a busy and complicated place, full of impersonal demands and unrealistic expectations. Living our lives on full display in the digital age can make it even more difficult to find true authenticity, peace and fulfillment. What we really need is the opportunity to pause and take a look at what we truly want for ourselves, and whether our energy and gifts are being used in pursuit of our purpose and passion. Counseling offers this opportunity for self-examination, along with the chance to expand coping skills, develop personal strengths, and solidify and repair relationships.
Holli Slater
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are experiencing mental health issues, challenges that are overwhelming, or just need someone to talk with, I am here to support and be a person standing next to you through whatever challenges you may face by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. Experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflict, family conflict, addiction, trauma, and mental health disorders can be hard to handle on your own. I am here to assist in creating a better understanding of yourself and accomplish the goals you want within your life and treatment.
Whether you are experiencing mental health issues, challenges that are overwhelming, or just need someone to talk with, I am here to support and be a person standing next to you through whatever challenges you may face by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. Experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflict, family conflict, addiction, trauma, and mental health disorders can be hard to handle on your own. I am here to assist in creating a better understanding of yourself and accomplish the goals you want within your life and treatment.
Kelsey Nimmo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, RYT, ADS
Not Verified Not Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Waitlist for new clients
As a holistic-minded therapist who works with both individuals and couples, I see the counseling process as an opportunity to examine old ways of relating to oneself and explore new ways of interacting. I use a whole-body approach to guide clients in becoming more self-aware and finding the strength to initiate long-term positive change for themselves. With couples, my goal is to improve intimacy and commitment using a research-based approach that identifies your strengths, and models healthy relationship patterns. I will walk with you as we navigate creating new interactions and a happier, stronger partnership.
As a holistic-minded therapist who works with both individuals and couples, I see the counseling process as an opportunity to examine old ways of relating to oneself and explore new ways of interacting. I use a whole-body approach to guide clients in becoming more self-aware and finding the strength to initiate long-term positive change for themselves. With couples, my goal is to improve intimacy and commitment using a research-based approach that identifies your strengths, and models healthy relationship patterns. I will walk with you as we navigate creating new interactions and a happier, stronger partnership.
Ashley DeCou
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Are you looking for a safe space to express yourself, explore your emotions, and navigate life's challenges? If so, I want you to know that you're not alone. As a compassionate and experienced counselor, my primary goal is to provide support and understanding to individuals just like you. I understand that reaching out for help can be difficult, and it takes courage to take that first step. That's why I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable opening up about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings.
Are you looking for a safe space to express yourself, explore your emotions, and navigate life's challenges? If so, I want you to know that you're not alone. As a compassionate and experienced counselor, my primary goal is to provide support and understanding to individuals just like you. I understand that reaching out for help can be difficult, and it takes courage to take that first step. That's why I strive to create a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable opening up about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings.
Yasmine Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I am here to help you navigate difficult situations going on in your life. My goal is for you to feel safe and understood. I enjoy helping people from all backgrounds. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, chronic pain, adjustment, and stress management. I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change.
I am here to help you navigate difficult situations going on in your life. My goal is for you to feel safe and understood. I enjoy helping people from all backgrounds. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, chronic pain, adjustment, and stress management. I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change.
See more therapy options for Kalamazoo
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI
500+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
76% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
75% | Stress |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
67% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
67% | Blue Care Network |
How Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Kalamazoo?
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
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.
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.
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.