Therapists in Westside, Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Steve Bizier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Steve Bizier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32205
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone has times when they feel overwhelmed, frustrated and stressed. As human beings it is inevitable that we will encounter obstacles in our lives from time to time. I do believe it is during these times that we learn the most about ourselves. Many times people repeat the same destructive patterns in their lives without even realizing it. As someone who has struggled with anxiety issues myself in the past, I understand how debilitating it can be. I believe my own experiences have made me a much more empathetic therapist as I can completely understand and relate to what my clients are struggling with.
Everyone has times when they feel overwhelmed, frustrated and stressed. As human beings it is inevitable that we will encounter obstacles in our lives from time to time. I do believe it is during these times that we learn the most about ourselves. Many times people repeat the same destructive patterns in their lives without even realizing it. As someone who has struggled with anxiety issues myself in the past, I understand how debilitating it can be. I believe my own experiences have made me a much more empathetic therapist as I can completely understand and relate to what my clients are struggling with.
(904) 454-8761 View (904) 454-8761
Photo of Casey Yates, Pre-Licensed Professional
Casey Yates
Pre-Licensed Professional
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32210
I am Casey Yates, a Registered Mental Health Intern with over 5 years of experience. I specialize in assisting children, teens, adults, and seniors who have a wide variety and range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, and relationship issues. I have worked in residential settings, case management, and intake coordination.
I am Casey Yates, a Registered Mental Health Intern with over 5 years of experience. I specialize in assisting children, teens, adults, and seniors who have a wide variety and range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, and relationship issues. I have worked in residential settings, case management, and intake coordination.
(904) 682-0697 View (904) 682-0697
Photo of Mary Beth Ridderman, Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Mary Beth Ridderman
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer safe and accessible telehealth - virtual counseling sessions. Even positive transitions can be challenging, hard to understand, or embarrassing to discuss. School transitions, career changes, divorce, domestic violence, parenting differences, personal loss, dating issues, or other life transitions can sometimes seem overwhelming. Because of these changes, you may feel angry, confused, sad, conflicted, or alone. I am here for you, to help you develop skills to cope with life’s changes.
I offer safe and accessible telehealth - virtual counseling sessions. Even positive transitions can be challenging, hard to understand, or embarrassing to discuss. School transitions, career changes, divorce, domestic violence, parenting differences, personal loss, dating issues, or other life transitions can sometimes seem overwhelming. Because of these changes, you may feel angry, confused, sad, conflicted, or alone. I am here for you, to help you develop skills to cope with life’s changes.
(904) 320-0351 View (904) 320-0351
Photo of Charity Parsons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charity Parsons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
You have taken that important first step on your road to healing! My role as your therapist is to empower you to make positive changes and guide you on your path to emotional wellness, improved daily functioning and self love. I’m so glad you’re here and I am honored to be part of your unique journey. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. I currently offer mental health support services on the following platforms: Better Help Wellnite Please call, text or email me to determine how I can best meet your needs
You have taken that important first step on your road to healing! My role as your therapist is to empower you to make positive changes and guide you on your path to emotional wellness, improved daily functioning and self love. I’m so glad you’re here and I am honored to be part of your unique journey. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. I currently offer mental health support services on the following platforms: Better Help Wellnite Please call, text or email me to determine how I can best meet your needs
(904) 310-1816 View (904) 310-1816
Photo of Josh Pina, Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Josh Pina
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
1 Endorsed
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32244
Welcome! I am Josh Pina, a registered mental health counseling intern. I obtained my masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Jacksonville University, and while there I received the clinical excellence award for my dedication to promoting wellness to populations served. My goal is to provide you a safe and welcoming space to navigate life’s obstacles, set goals, and to grow. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and I work with teens and adults that are seeking help with regulating emotions, strengthening relationship skills, tolerating stressful thoughts and situations, substance use disorders, etc.
Welcome! I am Josh Pina, a registered mental health counseling intern. I obtained my masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Jacksonville University, and while there I received the clinical excellence award for my dedication to promoting wellness to populations served. My goal is to provide you a safe and welcoming space to navigate life’s obstacles, set goals, and to grow. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and I work with teens and adults that are seeking help with regulating emotions, strengthening relationship skills, tolerating stressful thoughts and situations, substance use disorders, etc.
(904) 932-0835 View (904) 932-0835
Photo of Sheryl Johnson, Counselor, LMHCQS, DOT SAP, MCAP, MAC, CAMS
Sheryl Johnson
Counselor, LMHCQS, DOT SAP, MCAP, MAC, CAMS
1 Endorsed
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32210
Visualizing a new life is fantastic. Changing a lifestyle takes action and support. I help individuals like yourself develop action plans, resolve feelings of inadequacy, work on removing obstacles such as poor coping skills, depression and fear. Together we work on accountability, moving forward on creating a lifestyle that serves you. What are you waiting for?
Visualizing a new life is fantastic. Changing a lifestyle takes action and support. I help individuals like yourself develop action plans, resolve feelings of inadequacy, work on removing obstacles such as poor coping skills, depression and fear. Together we work on accountability, moving forward on creating a lifestyle that serves you. What are you waiting for?
(904) 712-5964 View (904) 712-5964
Photo of Heather M Fewox-Steen - Heather M. Fewox-Steen, LMHC, LLC., Counselor, MS, LMHC
Heather M. Fewox-Steen, LMHC, LLC.
Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32205
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I have practiced in community based agencies for more than 15 years. I have been licensed for 10 years. I have experience conducting individual, family psychotherapy, group, initial diagnostic interviews, and crisis intervention for all area of mental health. I have worked in a school setting with school related issues for over 5 years including working with military and their families to add support services.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I have practiced in community based agencies for more than 15 years. I have been licensed for 10 years. I have experience conducting individual, family psychotherapy, group, initial diagnostic interviews, and crisis intervention for all area of mental health. I have worked in a school setting with school related issues for over 5 years including working with military and their families to add support services.
(904) 503-6238 View (904) 503-6238
Photo of Freda D Doxey, Counselor, MA, LMHC, PhD
Freda D Doxey
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you overwhelmed with life? Struggle with loneliness, anger, anxiety, depression, job stress, marital conflict, parenting issues, or some type of addiction? As a licensed mental health counselor, I am available to work with you in changing challenges into opportunities so you can live life to your full potential. Many of my clients, including couples, athletes and veterans, are now enjoying a stress-less life and making significant progress in their relationships, careers and life.
Are you overwhelmed with life? Struggle with loneliness, anger, anxiety, depression, job stress, marital conflict, parenting issues, or some type of addiction? As a licensed mental health counselor, I am available to work with you in changing challenges into opportunities so you can live life to your full potential. Many of my clients, including couples, athletes and veterans, are now enjoying a stress-less life and making significant progress in their relationships, careers and life.
(904) 245-1437 View (904) 245-1437
Photo of Cody McCain, Counselor, MA, LPC
Cody McCain
Counselor, MA, LPC
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32205
In my practice I see clients of all ages, for therapy and testing/evaluations. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse/dependence, behavior disorders and family systems issues. Most of my clients present with a combination of symptoms. I tailor treatment to the specific needs of the client and use research proven techniques to meet the needs of the individual, or family, in a collaborative setting. I teach healthy coping skills to address a wide range of symptoms.
In my practice I see clients of all ages, for therapy and testing/evaluations. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse/dependence, behavior disorders and family systems issues. Most of my clients present with a combination of symptoms. I tailor treatment to the specific needs of the client and use research proven techniques to meet the needs of the individual, or family, in a collaborative setting. I teach healthy coping skills to address a wide range of symptoms.
(904) 872-6524 View (904) 872-6524
Photo of Kimberly Cruise, Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, BCABA
Kimberly Cruise
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, BCABA
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32210
I see therapy as an opportunity to learn positive ways to respond to life's challenges, to understand and change self-defeating behavior patterns, and build a more balanced, meaningful and rewarding life. My approach is interactive and collaborative. I listen with support, insight and compassion to help you increase your emotional and psychological assets and to develop your unique potential. Together, we use your present life experience to understand your therapy issues and use a broad range of therapy techniques to help make changes.
I see therapy as an opportunity to learn positive ways to respond to life's challenges, to understand and change self-defeating behavior patterns, and build a more balanced, meaningful and rewarding life. My approach is interactive and collaborative. I listen with support, insight and compassion to help you increase your emotional and psychological assets and to develop your unique potential. Together, we use your present life experience to understand your therapy issues and use a broad range of therapy techniques to help make changes.
(904) 552-3884 View (904) 552-3884
Photo of Dina Rachelle Milum, LMHC, PhD
Dina Rachelle Milum
Verified Verified
Online Only
Taking the first step is usually the most difficult part. The decision to try therapy takes courage; but can result in the promise of hope for change, insight, a new direction and then finally solutions. Dina's work has been described as insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, relational and free from blame or guilt. With over 25 years experience she has worked with a wide variety of clients and client issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, family relationship difficulties, social anxiety, phase of life problems as well many other issues.
Taking the first step is usually the most difficult part. The decision to try therapy takes courage; but can result in the promise of hope for change, insight, a new direction and then finally solutions. Dina's work has been described as insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, relational and free from blame or guilt. With over 25 years experience she has worked with a wide variety of clients and client issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, family relationship difficulties, social anxiety, phase of life problems as well many other issues.
(904) 675-3610 View (904) 675-3610
Photo of Maria G Giuliana - Beyond The Matter Counseling Services, Counselor, LMHC, QualSup, Veteran
Beyond The Matter Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC, QualSup, Veteran
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Greetings! I'm Maria Giuliana, founder of Beyond The Matter Counseling and Consulting Services LLC. I'm committed to caring for the whole person. I use an existential-humanistic-integrative approach that is trauma-informed, multi-culturally competent, and offer a safe space for all. I provide individual, couples counseling, and clinical supervision services via telehealth only. I'm a 20-year Navy Veteran who understands the unique stresses and the full impact of the military lifestyle on our active, retired, and veteran service members and their families. Together, we'll develop tools to better navigate your course.
Greetings! I'm Maria Giuliana, founder of Beyond The Matter Counseling and Consulting Services LLC. I'm committed to caring for the whole person. I use an existential-humanistic-integrative approach that is trauma-informed, multi-culturally competent, and offer a safe space for all. I provide individual, couples counseling, and clinical supervision services via telehealth only. I'm a 20-year Navy Veteran who understands the unique stresses and the full impact of the military lifestyle on our active, retired, and veteran service members and their families. Together, we'll develop tools to better navigate your course.
(904) 549-6786 View (904) 549-6786
Photo of Christy Brown, Counselor, LMHC
Christy Brown
Counselor, LMHC
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Making the choice to come to therapy is an important decision. Apart from the clinical training and skill of your counselor, the most important part of your experience is the therapeutic relationship. Most people who come to counseling need to talk about things that can be hard to talk about with someone else. I understand that, and this is why I put so much importance on building a trusting relationship. In order for you to say everything exactly how you mean it and to express yourself fully, you need to feel genuinely safe and free from judgment.
Making the choice to come to therapy is an important decision. Apart from the clinical training and skill of your counselor, the most important part of your experience is the therapeutic relationship. Most people who come to counseling need to talk about things that can be hard to talk about with someone else. I understand that, and this is why I put so much importance on building a trusting relationship. In order for you to say everything exactly how you mean it and to express yourself fully, you need to feel genuinely safe and free from judgment.
(904) 638-6407 View (904) 638-6407
Photo of Bianca Doll, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bianca Doll
Pre-Licensed Professional
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32210
I am a Registered Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern who specializes in addressing a wide range of conditions, offering comprehensive support and healing. My focus includes depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma, trauma, PTSD, grief, and personality disorders. I strive to create a safe, supportive space for clients to process and heal from trauma, navigate the grieving process with resilience and self-compassion, and learn about self-awareness, coping skills, and relational growth.
I am a Registered Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern who specializes in addressing a wide range of conditions, offering comprehensive support and healing. My focus includes depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma, trauma, PTSD, grief, and personality disorders. I strive to create a safe, supportive space for clients to process and heal from trauma, navigate the grieving process with resilience and self-compassion, and learn about self-awareness, coping skills, and relational growth.
(904) 299-1763 View (904) 299-1763
Photo of Lajosha Miller - True Me Counseling, LLC, Counselor, LMHC , QSMH
True Me Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC , QSMH
1 Endorsed
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32210
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, trained in EMDR. I am the owner of True Me Counseling who is ecstatic to help you on your clinical journey. I have practiced in the community of Jacksonville for more than 10 years. I have been a licensed clinican for 8 years. I have experience conducting individual, family psychotherapy, group, initial diagnostic interviews, and crisis intervention in mental health settings. I am currently working in a school setting that addresses military related stressors.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, trained in EMDR. I am the owner of True Me Counseling who is ecstatic to help you on your clinical journey. I have practiced in the community of Jacksonville for more than 10 years. I have been a licensed clinican for 8 years. I have experience conducting individual, family psychotherapy, group, initial diagnostic interviews, and crisis intervention in mental health settings. I am currently working in a school setting that addresses military related stressors.
(904) 606-9483 View (904) 606-9483
Photo of Kurt W Oster Msw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LBS, LICSW-S, LCSW-S, BCD, RPT™
Kurt W Oster Msw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LBS, LICSW-S, LCSW-S, BCD, RPT™
Online Only
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page. I am an LCSW in FL, PA, and VA, a LICSW in MN, a Board Certified Diplomate, and a Registered Play Therapist. With multiple mental health and trauma care credentials, I am dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s challenges, foster personal growth, and develop positive goals. As a social worker, life coach, and trauma professional, I provide a supportive and affirming space for healing and self-discovery. I also specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients on identity development, coming out, and gender identity concerns.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page. I am an LCSW in FL, PA, and VA, a LICSW in MN, a Board Certified Diplomate, and a Registered Play Therapist. With multiple mental health and trauma care credentials, I am dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s challenges, foster personal growth, and develop positive goals. As a social worker, life coach, and trauma professional, I provide a supportive and affirming space for healing and self-discovery. I also specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients on identity development, coming out, and gender identity concerns.
(904) 849-2956 View (904) 849-2956
Photo of Yolla Baddour, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MFT, LMHC, NCC, QS
Yolla Baddour
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MFT, LMHC, NCC, QS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I understand that sometimes, we need someone on the outside looking in—someone to truly listen without judgment, someone who can hold space while we process both the darkest and brightest parts of ourselves. In these moments of vulnerability, we seek a space where we can bare it all and, ultimately, find solace and healing at our core. My goal is to provide that space, offering you the tools you need to navigate the challenges of daily life.I believe that the clinician-client relationship is the foundation of any successful therapeutic journey.
Welcome! I understand that sometimes, we need someone on the outside looking in—someone to truly listen without judgment, someone who can hold space while we process both the darkest and brightest parts of ourselves. In these moments of vulnerability, we seek a space where we can bare it all and, ultimately, find solace and healing at our core. My goal is to provide that space, offering you the tools you need to navigate the challenges of daily life.I believe that the clinician-client relationship is the foundation of any successful therapeutic journey.
(904) 933-6691 View (904) 933-6691
Photo of Chris Bartkowiak, Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Chris Bartkowiak
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Online Only
Listening is an art form.From traditional counseling to life coaching, mindfulness, I draw on my extensive life experience and thousands of hours with clients in helping you with communication, anger, trauma, grief, PTSD, existential crisis, addictions. I work with adult clients of all ages. I also work with other therapists, first responders, health professionals, teachers in helping them process the trauma that they witness and hear.You will know within the first session whether I am the right therapist, life coach for you.Confidentiality is assured, sliding scale. c-904 476-5336. chriscoachingandcounseling.com
Listening is an art form.From traditional counseling to life coaching, mindfulness, I draw on my extensive life experience and thousands of hours with clients in helping you with communication, anger, trauma, grief, PTSD, existential crisis, addictions. I work with adult clients of all ages. I also work with other therapists, first responders, health professionals, teachers in helping them process the trauma that they witness and hear.You will know within the first session whether I am the right therapist, life coach for you.Confidentiality is assured, sliding scale. c-904 476-5336. chriscoachingandcounseling.com
(904) 736-3693 View (904) 736-3693
Photo of Cardelia Dischert, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, MS
Cardelia Dischert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, MS
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Life transitions, relationship strain, anxiety, or grief can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from your sense of self. If you’re navigating postpartum challenges, caregiving stress, or complex trauma, you may feel isolated or unsure where to turn. I work with individuals and couples who want clarity, peace, and renewed connection. Whether you’re facing a major life shift or seeking support for long-standing patterns, we’ll identify your goals and move at a pace that feels safe and empowering.
Life transitions, relationship strain, anxiety, or grief can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from your sense of self. If you’re navigating postpartum challenges, caregiving stress, or complex trauma, you may feel isolated or unsure where to turn. I work with individuals and couples who want clarity, peace, and renewed connection. Whether you’re facing a major life shift or seeking support for long-standing patterns, we’ll identify your goals and move at a pace that feels safe and empowering.
(904) 650-0475 View (904) 650-0475
Photo of Kaleigh Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kaleigh Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Westside, Jacksonville, FL 32210
As a Licensed Clinical Social worker I believe in helping you, to help yourself. Balancing the everyday challenges of life at work, at home and in relationships can be difficult to navigate alone. I will use a client-centered approach and various evidence-based practices to help you on your journey of self discovery and to manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. Let’s work together to develop the skills and resources you already have, as well as discover new ones in order to problem solve and achieve measurable progress towards your therapeutic goals.
As a Licensed Clinical Social worker I believe in helping you, to help yourself. Balancing the everyday challenges of life at work, at home and in relationships can be difficult to navigate alone. I will use a client-centered approach and various evidence-based practices to help you on your journey of self discovery and to manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. Let’s work together to develop the skills and resources you already have, as well as discover new ones in order to problem solve and achieve measurable progress towards your therapeutic goals.
(904) 921-3495 View (904) 921-3495

See more therapy options for Westside, Jacksonville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westside, Jacksonville, FL

200+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Westside, Jacksonville, FL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Coping Skills
79% Stress
78% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
73% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Westside, Jacksonville, FL see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westside, Jacksonville?

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.