Therapists in Brighton, MI

Photo of Kristina M. Princinsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Kristina M. Princinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
"When will I feel like myself again?" "Will this pain ever end?" "You don't look sick!" Sound familiar? Illness and setbacks can happen to anyone and are often invisible to others. If you’re struggling to stay active, remain connected and feel torn between sharing "too little" and "feeling like a burden," you’re not alone. I tailor treatment plans for your most urgent needs. My aim is to restore energy, strengthen relationships & improve quality of life. Together we'll examine how the way you think, feel and act influences your ability to handle stress, cope with loss, manage pain and overcome hardships. Your comeback starts today!
"When will I feel like myself again?" "Will this pain ever end?" "You don't look sick!" Sound familiar? Illness and setbacks can happen to anyone and are often invisible to others. If you’re struggling to stay active, remain connected and feel torn between sharing "too little" and "feeling like a burden," you’re not alone. I tailor treatment plans for your most urgent needs. My aim is to restore energy, strengthen relationships & improve quality of life. Together we'll examine how the way you think, feel and act influences your ability to handle stress, cope with loss, manage pain and overcome hardships. Your comeback starts today!
(947) 800-5584 View (947) 800-5584
Photo of Madeleine Lamb, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brighton, MI
Madeleine Lamb
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LLMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Not accepting new clients
I believe healing happens in relationship with ourselves and others. To me, authentic connection between client and therapist is the foundation for deeper understanding of our responses to our environment and creating new ways of being that serve us well. I’m passionate about partnering with couples, teens, and adults of diverse, intersecting identities seeking support for a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationship management, life transitions, identity exploration/acceptance, and parenting.
I believe healing happens in relationship with ourselves and others. To me, authentic connection between client and therapist is the foundation for deeper understanding of our responses to our environment and creating new ways of being that serve us well. I’m passionate about partnering with couples, teens, and adults of diverse, intersecting identities seeking support for a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationship management, life transitions, identity exploration/acceptance, and parenting.
(810) 644-5812 View (810) 644-5812
Photo of Gregory Fricker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Gregory Fricker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Not accepting new clients
On the best day, living in this world is complicated. Relationships are complicated, emotions are complicated, healing is complicated, and explaining what's on our mind is complicated. Complicated is my profession, and I enjoy working with clients who are tired of feeling beaten by "complicated". I enjoy working with clients as they navigate a variety of topics, such as anxiety, depression, body image concerns, grief, difficulty concentrating, relationship distress, social anxiety, phobia, trauma, family distress, spiritual concerns, matters of identity, breaking habits, low self esteem, and many more flavors of "complicated".
On the best day, living in this world is complicated. Relationships are complicated, emotions are complicated, healing is complicated, and explaining what's on our mind is complicated. Complicated is my profession, and I enjoy working with clients who are tired of feeling beaten by "complicated". I enjoy working with clients as they navigate a variety of topics, such as anxiety, depression, body image concerns, grief, difficulty concentrating, relationship distress, social anxiety, phobia, trauma, family distress, spiritual concerns, matters of identity, breaking habits, low self esteem, and many more flavors of "complicated".
(810) 390-5160 View (810) 390-5160
Photo of Venus Sage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Venus Sage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Welcome. I have been working in the field of psychology 30 plus years. I enjoy working with all ages and stages, including some family and couples work. I have extra experience with substance abuse as well. My education includes a master and specialist degree in counseling and a master in natural health. I have certification in RET, NLP and hypnotherapy. I believe in therapy that includes well rounded goals to include health, lifestyle, relationship communication, esteem, medication assessment and tools to manage the external and internal challenges life presents.
Welcome. I have been working in the field of psychology 30 plus years. I enjoy working with all ages and stages, including some family and couples work. I have extra experience with substance abuse as well. My education includes a master and specialist degree in counseling and a master in natural health. I have certification in RET, NLP and hypnotherapy. I believe in therapy that includes well rounded goals to include health, lifestyle, relationship communication, esteem, medication assessment and tools to manage the external and internal challenges life presents.
(810) 442-8942 View (810) 442-8942
Photo of Deborah Gottlieb-Porlick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Deborah Gottlieb-Porlick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAAC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Are you experiencing difficulties due to marital/relationship conflicts? Unresolved grief? PTSD? Substance abuse or support for family members of a substance abuser? Depression and anxiety? Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples, and families to learn how to cope with these issues.
Are you experiencing difficulties due to marital/relationship conflicts? Unresolved grief? PTSD? Substance abuse or support for family members of a substance abuser? Depression and anxiety? Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples, and families to learn how to cope with these issues.
(810) 683-5711 View (810) 683-5711
Photo of Ashley Bartlett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Ashley Bartlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Ashley! My goal as a therapist is to help you find balance and personal growth in your healing journey from a holistic and strength-based perspective. I believe that each client is the expert of their own life, experiences, and needs. It is a priority to me to create a space for clients to feel empowered to share their story, discover their strengths, and make positive and meaningful changes in their lives. I provide non-judgmental and empathic counseling services to help you through the process of change. It is important to me that you feel safe and supported.
Hi, I’m Ashley! My goal as a therapist is to help you find balance and personal growth in your healing journey from a holistic and strength-based perspective. I believe that each client is the expert of their own life, experiences, and needs. It is a priority to me to create a space for clients to feel empowered to share their story, discover their strengths, and make positive and meaningful changes in their lives. I provide non-judgmental and empathic counseling services to help you through the process of change. It is important to me that you feel safe and supported.
(810) 442-8443 View (810) 442-8443
Photo of Rebecca Jokinen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Rebecca Jokinen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) in the state of Michigan. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults, in individual and group settings. My counseling approach draws from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as Adlerian Therapy. I tend to focus on deepening personal awareness, analyzing maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, incorporating Mindfulness techniques, teaching positive psychology concepts, understanding familial influence, understanding biological influences, etc.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) in the state of Michigan. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults, in individual and group settings. My counseling approach draws from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as Adlerian Therapy. I tend to focus on deepening personal awareness, analyzing maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, incorporating Mindfulness techniques, teaching positive psychology concepts, understanding familial influence, understanding biological influences, etc.
(810) 505-5194 View (810) 505-5194
Photo of Bethany Petrous, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Bethany Petrous
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Therapy can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and healing which can be used as an opportunity to understand ourselves. Experiences can affect how we view ourselves and the world, this can cause difficultly discussing our past and current stressors. You can expect an empathetic, non-biased, and warm approach to therapy without judgement. We will work together to accomplish your goals and work through your life challenges so you can become the best version of you in a safe space.
Therapy can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and healing which can be used as an opportunity to understand ourselves. Experiences can affect how we view ourselves and the world, this can cause difficultly discussing our past and current stressors. You can expect an empathetic, non-biased, and warm approach to therapy without judgement. We will work together to accomplish your goals and work through your life challenges so you can become the best version of you in a safe space.
(810) 428-0406 View (810) 428-0406
Photo of Lisa Wilmot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Lisa Wilmot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48114  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life harder than you'd like it to be? I can help you reach your desired goals. I believe that health and wellness are best achieved by addressing the whole person, not simply the condition, adverse event or illness/disease. This holistic approach to care respects the individuality of persons, their environments and their physical and emotional needs. The therapeutic relationship is important and necessary in order to move forward in your areas of stagnation. Evening hours available only.
Life harder than you'd like it to be? I can help you reach your desired goals. I believe that health and wellness are best achieved by addressing the whole person, not simply the condition, adverse event or illness/disease. This holistic approach to care respects the individuality of persons, their environments and their physical and emotional needs. The therapeutic relationship is important and necessary in order to move forward in your areas of stagnation. Evening hours available only.
(517) 923-3266 View (517) 923-3266
Photo of Katie Magill, Counselor in Brighton, MI
Katie Magill
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Regardless of whether you are experiencing extreme distress in your daily life, or just need to make some more space for self-discovery, counseling does not need to be an intimidating experience. We have a conversation, we ask questions, and we work together to gain insight. From there we can identify some goals, try new strategies, seek healing, work towards solutions, and improve your mental health - whatever that looks like for you!
Regardless of whether you are experiencing extreme distress in your daily life, or just need to make some more space for self-discovery, counseling does not need to be an intimidating experience. We have a conversation, we ask questions, and we work together to gain insight. From there we can identify some goals, try new strategies, seek healing, work towards solutions, and improve your mental health - whatever that looks like for you!
(810) 641-1310 View (810) 641-1310
Photo of Colton Darrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Colton Darrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Colton Darrow is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor, who has been practicing since 2019. He graduated from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Colton believes in a strong therapeutic alliance where therapist and client share a mutual engagement in therapy. His main areas of focus include Adult ADHD, PTSD, and Depression/Anxiety. In his spare time, Colton enjoys spending time outside in nature and quality time with his family.
Colton Darrow is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor, who has been practicing since 2019. He graduated from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Colton believes in a strong therapeutic alliance where therapist and client share a mutual engagement in therapy. His main areas of focus include Adult ADHD, PTSD, and Depression/Anxiety. In his spare time, Colton enjoys spending time outside in nature and quality time with his family.
(810) 637-4625 View (810) 637-4625
Photo of Jessica Esker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Jessica Esker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Whether you are seeking therapy to work through past traumas, find relief from a specific issue, or just to have a person to talk to without judgement - You are in the right place. This is the first step.
Whether you are seeking therapy to work through past traumas, find relief from a specific issue, or just to have a person to talk to without judgement - You are in the right place. This is the first step.
(810) 599-9591 x4 View (810) 599-9591 x4
Photo of Kate S. McKee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brighton, MI
Kate S. McKee
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48114
It is important for me to build a strong relationship with my clients and meet them where they are at. I draw from a variety of theories and work collaboratively with my clients to find the best fit. My goal is to create a safe and respectful environment that supports vulnerability and promotes change. You are the expert of your life, and I am here to listen, and offer another perspective.
It is important for me to build a strong relationship with my clients and meet them where they are at. I draw from a variety of theories and work collaboratively with my clients to find the best fit. My goal is to create a safe and respectful environment that supports vulnerability and promotes change. You are the expert of your life, and I am here to listen, and offer another perspective.
(810) 442-0778 View (810) 442-0778
Photo of Jordan Cusumano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Jordan Cusumano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Many of my clients are seeking personal growth, navigating grief, struggling with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and tendencies, trying to find motivation, experiencing concerns related to their mood, healing from secondary trauma, adjusting to illness, approaching or enthralled in life transitions, interested in self-care and awareness, making healthy choices and life-style changes, or wanting to invest in general wellness. I am currently providing exclusively telehealth therapy. My passions of animal-assisted therapies are not completely stifled by this! I enjoy the chance to see you with your pets at home!
Many of my clients are seeking personal growth, navigating grief, struggling with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and tendencies, trying to find motivation, experiencing concerns related to their mood, healing from secondary trauma, adjusting to illness, approaching or enthralled in life transitions, interested in self-care and awareness, making healthy choices and life-style changes, or wanting to invest in general wellness. I am currently providing exclusively telehealth therapy. My passions of animal-assisted therapies are not completely stifled by this! I enjoy the chance to see you with your pets at home!
(810) 207-6419 View (810) 207-6419
Photo of Kathleen Roberson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Kathleen Roberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Kathleen Roberson is a Rehabilitation and Licensed Professional Counselor who obtained a double Master's Degree from Wayne State University. Her degree is in Rehabilitation and Family Inclusion and Mental Health Counseling. Kathleen believes in inclusivity and feels that everyone needs to have the ability to become a productive part of our society without the stigma of mental health issues or physical disabilities. In her spare time she enjoys art therapy, music, learning about other cultures, traveling and cooking.
Kathleen Roberson is a Rehabilitation and Licensed Professional Counselor who obtained a double Master's Degree from Wayne State University. Her degree is in Rehabilitation and Family Inclusion and Mental Health Counseling. Kathleen believes in inclusivity and feels that everyone needs to have the ability to become a productive part of our society without the stigma of mental health issues or physical disabilities. In her spare time she enjoys art therapy, music, learning about other cultures, traveling and cooking.
(810) 202-0319 View (810) 202-0319
Photo of Laura Casper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brighton, MI
Laura Casper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Laura (Laurie) Madden-Casper, LLP, is an experienced therapist who begins the treatment process by building a supportive and collaborative relationship with her client. Through this strong therapeutic alliance, treatment goals are determined. Each client is then empowered to make the changes necessary to overcome the challenges they are facing in their lives. In therapy, Laurie utilizes a strengths-based and client centered approach. Cognitive behavioral and solution focused strategies are incorporated into the treatment process in order to give clients the tools they need to more effectively manage their lives.
Laura (Laurie) Madden-Casper, LLP, is an experienced therapist who begins the treatment process by building a supportive and collaborative relationship with her client. Through this strong therapeutic alliance, treatment goals are determined. Each client is then empowered to make the changes necessary to overcome the challenges they are facing in their lives. In therapy, Laurie utilizes a strengths-based and client centered approach. Cognitive behavioral and solution focused strategies are incorporated into the treatment process in order to give clients the tools they need to more effectively manage their lives.
(810) 442-8912 View (810) 442-8912
Photo of Brittney Briggs, Psychologist in Brighton, MI
Brittney Briggs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Brittney Briggs is a fully licensed clinical psychologist practicing since 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Colgate University and her Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She completed her internship at Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, IL where she worked with veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses. She completed her post-doctoral training at Truman VA in Columbia, MO, where she specialized in the assessment and treatment of veterans with co-morbid TBI and PTSD.
Brittney Briggs is a fully licensed clinical psychologist practicing since 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Colgate University and her Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She completed her internship at Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, IL where she worked with veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses. She completed her post-doctoral training at Truman VA in Columbia, MO, where she specialized in the assessment and treatment of veterans with co-morbid TBI and PTSD.
(810) 370-8804 View (810) 370-8804
Photo of Kayla Mockridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Kayla Mockridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming. We do all the things we’re supposed to do; we're productive at work, take care for our loved ones, spend time with our friends now and then, but we still end up feeling exhausted, lonely, and maybe even unimportant or unfulfilled. Therapy is an opportunity to choose yourself. It’s a chance to show up for yourself and give yourself the same kindness, love and compassion that you give to those around you. My goal is to guide you through self-reflection and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment and ultimately help you find your way to healing empowerment, and self-fulfillment.
Life can be overwhelming. We do all the things we’re supposed to do; we're productive at work, take care for our loved ones, spend time with our friends now and then, but we still end up feeling exhausted, lonely, and maybe even unimportant or unfulfilled. Therapy is an opportunity to choose yourself. It’s a chance to show up for yourself and give yourself the same kindness, love and compassion that you give to those around you. My goal is to guide you through self-reflection and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment and ultimately help you find your way to healing empowerment, and self-fulfillment.
(734) 212-8857 View (734) 212-8857
Photo of Joshua Ayers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Joshua Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Josh Ayers is a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. He has a Masters of Social Work from the University of Michigan School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science-Neuroscience from the University of Michigan. Josh hopes to best support kids and young adults who seek the support coping with anxiety and depression symptoms. This could potential come from school or life related stress, bullying trauma, and other situations that could potentially necessitate support.
Josh Ayers is a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. He has a Masters of Social Work from the University of Michigan School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science-Neuroscience from the University of Michigan. Josh hopes to best support kids and young adults who seek the support coping with anxiety and depression symptoms. This could potential come from school or life related stress, bullying trauma, and other situations that could potentially necessitate support.
(810) 672-1057 View (810) 672-1057
Photo of Joanna Gail Karner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brighton, MI
Joanna Gail Karner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe the space held between therapist and client is sacred. It is a privilege and honor to be invited to take part in the journey of another person’s life - to witness their challenges and joys. I believe that you are more than your trauma or diagnosis. My goal is to be a therapeutic partner in helping you foster your strength and resilience. Together we will explore what you need to manage uncomfortable feelings, identify behaviors you want to change and integrate healthy ways of coping into the rhythm of your life. I believe in you.
I believe the space held between therapist and client is sacred. It is a privilege and honor to be invited to take part in the journey of another person’s life - to witness their challenges and joys. I believe that you are more than your trauma or diagnosis. My goal is to be a therapeutic partner in helping you foster your strength and resilience. Together we will explore what you need to manage uncomfortable feelings, identify behaviors you want to change and integrate healthy ways of coping into the rhythm of your life. I believe in you.
(810) 546-3186 View (810) 546-3186

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Brighton, MI

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Brighton, MI who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Self Esteem
63% Grief
61% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
61% Aetna
54% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Brighton, MI see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Brighton?

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.