Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of David C. Klingman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
David C. Klingman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Does your child have emotional outbursts seemingly out of nowhere? Does your child seem distant, sad and disconnected? Is your child having trouble expressing him/herself or connecting with peers? Being a parent can be the most meaningful and fulfilling experience we will ever have in our lives, and also sometimes the most challenging, exhausting, and emotionally overwhelming. The truth is that no matter how strongly we love our children, and how powerfully we want the best for them, life's challenges can still get in the way of our kids being able to thrive as their best, most emotionally regulated selves.
Does your child have emotional outbursts seemingly out of nowhere? Does your child seem distant, sad and disconnected? Is your child having trouble expressing him/herself or connecting with peers? Being a parent can be the most meaningful and fulfilling experience we will ever have in our lives, and also sometimes the most challenging, exhausting, and emotionally overwhelming. The truth is that no matter how strongly we love our children, and how powerfully we want the best for them, life's challenges can still get in the way of our kids being able to thrive as their best, most emotionally regulated selves.
(971) 252-5784 View (971) 252-5784
Photo of Embodied Relational Life Therapy Portland (RLT), Psychologist in Portland, OR
Embodied Relational Life Therapy Portland (RLT)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
In couples counseling, Kerry and Banjo both work from the Relational Life Therapy (RLT) model, as taught by Terry Real. We have been immersed in this valuable framework for years, engaging it both professionally and personally, and are currently in the final stages of RLT certification. We realize that by being in relationship with ourselves and others in a way that is accountable, empathetic, and vulnerable, we are able to flourish as partners, parents, and professionals. We hope to help you do the same in your relational life.
In couples counseling, Kerry and Banjo both work from the Relational Life Therapy (RLT) model, as taught by Terry Real. We have been immersed in this valuable framework for years, engaging it both professionally and personally, and are currently in the final stages of RLT certification. We realize that by being in relationship with ourselves and others in a way that is accountable, empathetic, and vulnerable, we are able to flourish as partners, parents, and professionals. We hope to help you do the same in your relational life.
(503) 755-5392 View (503) 755-5392
Photo of Jeffrey Dodge, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Jeffrey Dodge
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and welcome! I’d like to begin by celebrating you in your process of considering therapy in your life. We seek out therapy for many varying reasons and all of them are dynamic and significant. From exploring childhood wounds, to unraveling traumatic experiences, to managing stress and anxiety, to confronting depression, to identity exploration, to navigating complex relationship dynamics, to systemic injustice, to living in a world that can be demanding and overwhelming. Whatever it is that has brought you here is deeply important and absolutely deserves attention.
Hello and welcome! I’d like to begin by celebrating you in your process of considering therapy in your life. We seek out therapy for many varying reasons and all of them are dynamic and significant. From exploring childhood wounds, to unraveling traumatic experiences, to managing stress and anxiety, to confronting depression, to identity exploration, to navigating complex relationship dynamics, to systemic injustice, to living in a world that can be demanding and overwhelming. Whatever it is that has brought you here is deeply important and absolutely deserves attention.
(503) 966-5885 View (503) 966-5885
Photo of Dr. Tayson Heward in Portland, OR
Dr. Tayson Heward
ND, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Dr. Tayson Heward ND LAc is a mental health specialized primary care physician, naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist at Shen Mental Health and Wellness. He has spent his career specializing in multiple medical fields to offer an integrative approach in patient’s mental health and primary care, allowing patients to have multiple treatment options for ailments that span both conventional and alternative medical treatments. He focuses on how our mental health plays a key role in the development of physical ailments, and the effects of trauma on the body. He offers a whole person and holistic approach to his medical care.
Dr. Tayson Heward ND LAc is a mental health specialized primary care physician, naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist at Shen Mental Health and Wellness. He has spent his career specializing in multiple medical fields to offer an integrative approach in patient’s mental health and primary care, allowing patients to have multiple treatment options for ailments that span both conventional and alternative medical treatments. He focuses on how our mental health plays a key role in the development of physical ailments, and the effects of trauma on the body. He offers a whole person and holistic approach to his medical care.
(503) 832-5984 View (503) 832-5984
Photo of Danielle Ropp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Danielle Ropp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
We will work one-on-one to explore your thoughts, feelings, habits and experiences so you can gain a better understanding into yourself and develop coping skills to achieve your goals and improve your well-being.
We will work one-on-one to explore your thoughts, feelings, habits and experiences so you can gain a better understanding into yourself and develop coping skills to achieve your goals and improve your well-being.
(971) 265-6126 View (971) 265-6126
Photo of Arielle E Fettman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Arielle E Fettman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTI, CMHS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
There aren’t many things in life that are as satisfying as feeling “at home” with your partner. You feel safe, comfortable, and connected. You feel like when you express yourself, you’re being heard, and you’re being given the benefit of the doubt. Alternatively, there aren’t many things in life that can feel as miserable as feeling disconnected from your partner. You constantly feel uncared for, misunderstood, unheard, defensive, angry, and resentful. And it feels like there’s no escape.
There aren’t many things in life that are as satisfying as feeling “at home” with your partner. You feel safe, comfortable, and connected. You feel like when you express yourself, you’re being heard, and you’re being given the benefit of the doubt. Alternatively, there aren’t many things in life that can feel as miserable as feeling disconnected from your partner. You constantly feel uncared for, misunderstood, unheard, defensive, angry, and resentful. And it feels like there’s no escape.
(503) 854-0469 View (503) 854-0469
Photo of Erica Ochsenreither, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Erica Ochsenreither
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97222  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about providing a warm, collaborative, empathetic space with opportunity for embodied healing. I will support you in weaving together thoughts, feelings, sensations, and beliefs in a safe and supportive relationship, deepening your awareness and, at times, challenging you toward your potential. I serve those struggling with depression, anxiety, navigating the effects of acute and/or complex trauma, those seeking to deepen their relationship with their body, and those desiring to change the way they show up in relationships. Come as you are, to a soft place to land, where you can feel wholeheartedly human.
I am passionate about providing a warm, collaborative, empathetic space with opportunity for embodied healing. I will support you in weaving together thoughts, feelings, sensations, and beliefs in a safe and supportive relationship, deepening your awareness and, at times, challenging you toward your potential. I serve those struggling with depression, anxiety, navigating the effects of acute and/or complex trauma, those seeking to deepen their relationship with their body, and those desiring to change the way they show up in relationships. Come as you are, to a soft place to land, where you can feel wholeheartedly human.
(503) 468-4589 View (503) 468-4589
Photo of Eva Firth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Eva Firth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I offer sex therapy, perinatal support, and couples therapy in Oregon & Utah. I love helping folks through sexual concerns like sexual anxiety, erectile issues, low desire, sexual shame, desire discrepancy in relationships, and sexual pain. I know how powerful sex positive support can be & I hope to create a space where you can discover your authentic sexual self and strengthen your relationship(s). I am also passionate about working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma through pregnancy or postpartum. I know this time in life can be so overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief.
I offer sex therapy, perinatal support, and couples therapy in Oregon & Utah. I love helping folks through sexual concerns like sexual anxiety, erectile issues, low desire, sexual shame, desire discrepancy in relationships, and sexual pain. I know how powerful sex positive support can be & I hope to create a space where you can discover your authentic sexual self and strengthen your relationship(s). I am also passionate about working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma through pregnancy or postpartum. I know this time in life can be so overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief.
(971) 293-2697 View (971) 293-2697
Photo of Ramiro Romo Jr., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Ramiro Romo Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97208  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Ramiro, a bilingual Latino therapist. A child of immigrant parents, lover of tacos, and enthusiast of all things Pokémon. I’m committed to helping clients learn how to build healthy versions of themselves, and moving away from shame. Many times, this includes exploring life's ongoing stressful challenges, processing traumatic experiences, and improving communication in our relationships. Specializing in helping those who experience struggles with anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, generational trauma, and parenting.
I'm Ramiro, a bilingual Latino therapist. A child of immigrant parents, lover of tacos, and enthusiast of all things Pokémon. I’m committed to helping clients learn how to build healthy versions of themselves, and moving away from shame. Many times, this includes exploring life's ongoing stressful challenges, processing traumatic experiences, and improving communication in our relationships. Specializing in helping those who experience struggles with anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, generational trauma, and parenting.
(971) 306-4086 View (971) 306-4086
Photo of Grace Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Grace Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
It feels like nothing you do is good enough, sapping your energy and joy from life. The critical inner voice as at a volume 10, and things just don’t feel worth attempting to do anymore. You are worn out, and tired of repeating the same patterns. You feel alone.
It feels like nothing you do is good enough, sapping your energy and joy from life. The critical inner voice as at a volume 10, and things just don’t feel worth attempting to do anymore. You are worn out, and tired of repeating the same patterns. You feel alone.
(503) 386-0932 View (503) 386-0932
Photo of Claire Colaco, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Claire Colaco, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
My first job as a therapist is to listen and understand. Deep listening is a time honored tradition and fundamental to healing. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship with clients that is a source of comfort and inspiration. Clients inspire me too! I practice spiritually grounded psychotherapy. This means I see life's challenges as, fundamentally, opportunities to grow spiritually and as a whole person. To me, the process of healing is beautiful and miraculous, something that gives us glimpses of a benevolent force much greater than ourselves.
My first job as a therapist is to listen and understand. Deep listening is a time honored tradition and fundamental to healing. I strive to create a safe and nurturing relationship with clients that is a source of comfort and inspiration. Clients inspire me too! I practice spiritually grounded psychotherapy. This means I see life's challenges as, fundamentally, opportunities to grow spiritually and as a whole person. To me, the process of healing is beautiful and miraculous, something that gives us glimpses of a benevolent force much greater than ourselves.
(971) 340-2718 View (971) 340-2718
Photo of Casey Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Casey Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience helping people change. Change can be scary, challenging, exhilarating, and fulfilling. I help facilitate change by developing a close therapeutic relationship with clients and by utilizing evidence based therapies, and my well developed intuition to identify the source of your problem and the best pathway forward. I specialize in treating motivational difficulties, depression, anxiety, and self defeating behaviors. I also help with existential issues, such as finding meaning, discovering passions, and developing and sustaining close relationships.
I have over 10 years of experience helping people change. Change can be scary, challenging, exhilarating, and fulfilling. I help facilitate change by developing a close therapeutic relationship with clients and by utilizing evidence based therapies, and my well developed intuition to identify the source of your problem and the best pathway forward. I specialize in treating motivational difficulties, depression, anxiety, and self defeating behaviors. I also help with existential issues, such as finding meaning, discovering passions, and developing and sustaining close relationships.
(503) 405-4434 View (503) 405-4434
Photo of Laina Yoswein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Laina Yoswein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Accepting new clients, in-person & telehealth! I offer relational, affirming, & approachable therapy for teens and young adults (14-21) that helps navigate the often turbulent times of adolescence & emerging adulthood. I work with young people so that they can feel less alone and more connected to a greater understanding of themselves, their joy, and how to move through hardship. As a therapist, my goal is to create a warm, open, and non-judgmental space where you can feel more understood, connected, and supported. I believe that healing happens within trusting relationships and that we shouldn’t have to go through difficulty alone.
Accepting new clients, in-person & telehealth! I offer relational, affirming, & approachable therapy for teens and young adults (14-21) that helps navigate the often turbulent times of adolescence & emerging adulthood. I work with young people so that they can feel less alone and more connected to a greater understanding of themselves, their joy, and how to move through hardship. As a therapist, my goal is to create a warm, open, and non-judgmental space where you can feel more understood, connected, and supported. I believe that healing happens within trusting relationships and that we shouldn’t have to go through difficulty alone.
(971) 314-4706 View (971) 314-4706
Photo of Jennifer Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jennifer Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Sometimes you may have a specific problem for which you are seeking help - like low mood, worry, sleep problems, or trouble at home or work - and sometimes you just want to explore yourself or develop ways to live a fuller, happier life. As your therapist, my goal is to help you clearly identify and explore the issue, and provide the assistance, guidance and coping skills to address an array of mental, emotional and general life issues, and restore hope. It is truly a pleasure to help you explore what's important to you and appreciate yourself in the world.
Sometimes you may have a specific problem for which you are seeking help - like low mood, worry, sleep problems, or trouble at home or work - and sometimes you just want to explore yourself or develop ways to live a fuller, happier life. As your therapist, my goal is to help you clearly identify and explore the issue, and provide the assistance, guidance and coping skills to address an array of mental, emotional and general life issues, and restore hope. It is truly a pleasure to help you explore what's important to you and appreciate yourself in the world.
(503) 741-2673 View (503) 741-2673
Photo of Roots Therapy NW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Roots Therapy NW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Welcome! We're glad you're here. We are a group of therapists with a diverse set of skills and experiences. Please see our website for therapist bios to see if we have a therapist who might feel like a good fit.
Welcome! We're glad you're here. We are a group of therapists with a diverse set of skills and experiences. Please see our website for therapist bios to see if we have a therapist who might feel like a good fit.
(503) 461-0639 View (503) 461-0639
Photo of Dr. Tonia Vojtkofsky, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Tonia Vojtkofsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
I believe there is hope for you, no matter what you are struggling with, or how intense your suffering is. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidenced-based treatments that empower people to learn, grow, and heal. I value psychotherapy that addresses the whole person. My goal is to help people overcome difficulties, reach their potential, and effect real and lasting change.
I believe there is hope for you, no matter what you are struggling with, or how intense your suffering is. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidenced-based treatments that empower people to learn, grow, and heal. I value psychotherapy that addresses the whole person. My goal is to help people overcome difficulties, reach their potential, and effect real and lasting change.
(971) 257-5965 View (971) 257-5965
Photo of Jessica Barnese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jessica Barnese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCI, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Welcome:). I offer an embodied experience of psychotherapy to help people expand their awareness and sense of connection. My work draws mainly from my expertise of The Hakomi Method of Mindful, Somatic Psychotherapy. In my sessions, I guide you to slow down and pay attention to deeper layers of yourself. With mindfulness, we uncover emotions, sensations and core beliefs that shape how you experience yourself and the world. Change happens as we work together to sort out old patterns and create new understandings to bring forward an updated life perspective from the most authentic, integrated version of who you are.
Welcome:). I offer an embodied experience of psychotherapy to help people expand their awareness and sense of connection. My work draws mainly from my expertise of The Hakomi Method of Mindful, Somatic Psychotherapy. In my sessions, I guide you to slow down and pay attention to deeper layers of yourself. With mindfulness, we uncover emotions, sensations and core beliefs that shape how you experience yourself and the world. Change happens as we work together to sort out old patterns and create new understandings to bring forward an updated life perspective from the most authentic, integrated version of who you are.
(503) 765-6785 View (503) 765-6785
Photo of Cynthia Ferguson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Cynthia Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
I hope you will find a welcome, safe place for healing and growth as we work together. Therapy sessions with me often include techniques from Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness techniques, or Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). This means that, unlike traditional talk therapy, I often integrate interventions using back-and-forth eye movements to promote resolution from upsetting experiences using ART or EMDR. These approaches are different than hypnosis and are supported by positive outcomes in research studies as well as in my clinical experience.
I hope you will find a welcome, safe place for healing and growth as we work together. Therapy sessions with me often include techniques from Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness techniques, or Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). This means that, unlike traditional talk therapy, I often integrate interventions using back-and-forth eye movements to promote resolution from upsetting experiences using ART or EMDR. These approaches are different than hypnosis and are supported by positive outcomes in research studies as well as in my clinical experience.
(503) 470-7911 View (503) 470-7911
Photo of Cynthia J Song, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Cynthia J Song
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist in MA & OR. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked as a public interest attorney, and as a psychologist, I see the importance of being conscious of context in the therapy room. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy -an evidence-based treatment- to illuminate how the past and present, external and internal, mutually influence one another. I also integrate tools from other therapy modalities to support the unique needs of each individual.
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist in MA & OR. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked as a public interest attorney, and as a psychologist, I see the importance of being conscious of context in the therapy room. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy -an evidence-based treatment- to illuminate how the past and present, external and internal, mutually influence one another. I also integrate tools from other therapy modalities to support the unique needs of each individual.
(503) 487-5909 View (503) 487-5909
Photo of Ross Cohen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Ross Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Curious about EMDR Therapy? EMDR is extensively researched, highly effective, and recommended by organizations such as the APA, WHO, and DoD. In fact, over the last 33 years, millions have been successfully treated with EMDR by over 100,000 clinicians worldwide. EMDR is commonly effective with anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, depression, fears, phobias, panic, trauma, sleep issues, addictions, and performance challenges. What makes EMDR so powerful is how effectively it turns on the brain’s natural healing process, allowing for deep release of the painful past thoughts and wounds that keep you stuck in old, negative patterns.
Curious about EMDR Therapy? EMDR is extensively researched, highly effective, and recommended by organizations such as the APA, WHO, and DoD. In fact, over the last 33 years, millions have been successfully treated with EMDR by over 100,000 clinicians worldwide. EMDR is commonly effective with anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, depression, fears, phobias, panic, trauma, sleep issues, addictions, and performance challenges. What makes EMDR so powerful is how effectively it turns on the brain’s natural healing process, allowing for deep release of the painful past thoughts and wounds that keep you stuck in old, negative patterns.
(503) 433-8545 View (503) 433-8545

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.