Therapists in Appling, GA

Photo of Jarretta Mahalko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jarretta Mahalko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Hi, I am Jarretta and I am a licensed therapist that has worked the past nine years for a non-profit organization that works with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I am trained in EMDR and and am well experienced in treating childhood trauma and its impacts such as PTSD symptoms, intimacy issues, trust, boundaries, and difficulty with relationships and assertive communication. I also have experience working in substance abuse treatment programs, as well as with incarcerated populations. I had the fortunate privilege of growing up in the military and have lived in some interesting and unique places. This fostered the ability to re
Hi, I am Jarretta and I am a licensed therapist that has worked the past nine years for a non-profit organization that works with survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I am trained in EMDR and and am well experienced in treating childhood trauma and its impacts such as PTSD symptoms, intimacy issues, trust, boundaries, and difficulty with relationships and assertive communication. I also have experience working in substance abuse treatment programs, as well as with incarcerated populations. I had the fortunate privilege of growing up in the military and have lived in some interesting and unique places. This fostered the ability to re
(470) 664-4139 View (470) 664-4139
Photo of Amanda Viola-Brooke, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CPCS
Amanda Viola-Brooke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CPCS
Online Only
She feels that therapy should be a safe place for clients to find the strength and empowerment they need to overcome difficulties. Amanda works with adults and is especially passionate about helping clients to heal from past trauma and working with the LGBTQ+ community. In her spare time, Amanda enjoys running, hiking, reading, bingeing good TV shows, and spending time with her wife and all their pets.
She feels that therapy should be a safe place for clients to find the strength and empowerment they need to overcome difficulties. Amanda works with adults and is especially passionate about helping clients to heal from past trauma and working with the LGBTQ+ community. In her spare time, Amanda enjoys running, hiking, reading, bingeing good TV shows, and spending time with her wife and all their pets.
(706) 873-9059 View (706) 873-9059
Photo of Edward Hancock, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Edward Hancock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
First as an EMT and Firefighter before transitioning to into the mental health field where he worked for a state agency helping a diverse range of clients using an integrative and eclectic range of therapy approaches. His philosophy is based around meeting a client where they are, treating the whole person, helping clients pursue goals relevant to them, and understanding sometimes clients hold their own answers buried inside them.
First as an EMT and Firefighter before transitioning to into the mental health field where he worked for a state agency helping a diverse range of clients using an integrative and eclectic range of therapy approaches. His philosophy is based around meeting a client where they are, treating the whole person, helping clients pursue goals relevant to them, and understanding sometimes clients hold their own answers buried inside them.
(706) 943-2375 View (706) 943-2375
Avis China
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
Avis China is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Francis Marion University and a master’s degree in Counseling at Webster University. Avis works with children, adolescents, adults and their families with expertise and interpersonal skills that contribute to overcoming dependencies, managing mental health, and adjusting to life. Age range 8-50 years old. She uses motivational interviewing as one of her approaches in an individual’s treatment journey.
Avis China is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2020. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Francis Marion University and a master’s degree in Counseling at Webster University. Avis works with children, adolescents, adults and their families with expertise and interpersonal skills that contribute to overcoming dependencies, managing mental health, and adjusting to life. Age range 8-50 years old. She uses motivational interviewing as one of her approaches in an individual’s treatment journey.
(706) 740-7452 View (706) 740-7452
Photo of Leslie Owen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Leslie Owen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
Leslie Owen is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Centre College, her master's degree at the University of Memphis, and later, pursued further training at Western Kentucky University. Ms. Owen spent many years working in the mental health field in Kentucky before moving to Augusta, GA in 2015. She is a National Board-Certified Counselor and a member of the National Association of Trauma Professionals. Shas training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Reality Therapy.
Leslie Owen is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Centre College, her master's degree at the University of Memphis, and later, pursued further training at Western Kentucky University. Ms. Owen spent many years working in the mental health field in Kentucky before moving to Augusta, GA in 2015. She is a National Board-Certified Counselor and a member of the National Association of Trauma Professionals. Shas training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Reality Therapy.
(706) 906-6308 View (706) 906-6308
Photo of Erin Richardson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Erin Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Erin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from Georgia State University with a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling. Erin believes the relationship developed between patient and therapist is the most important tool of therapy. She works with patients in meeting their therapeutic goals using encouragement, education, and compassionate and empathetic challenges. Her goal is to equip and empower people to live healthier, happier lives.
Erin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), who has been practicing since 2009. She graduated from Georgia State University with a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling. Erin believes the relationship developed between patient and therapist is the most important tool of therapy. She works with patients in meeting their therapeutic goals using encouragement, education, and compassionate and empathetic challenges. Her goal is to equip and empower people to live healthier, happier lives.
(706) 903-9328 View (706) 903-9328
Photo of Dr. Marie Gehle, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Marie Gehle
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Marie Gehle is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She earned her Doctorate of Psychology from Xavier University in Cincinnati in 2008. She recived her Bachelor's Degree in psychology from Ohio Northern University. She completed a pre-doctoral internship at Western State Hospital in Tacaoma, Washington. She completed a post-doctoral fellowship at East Central Regional Hospital in Augusta.
Marie Gehle is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults. She earned her Doctorate of Psychology from Xavier University in Cincinnati in 2008. She recived her Bachelor's Degree in psychology from Ohio Northern University. She completed a pre-doctoral internship at Western State Hospital in Tacaoma, Washington. She completed a post-doctoral fellowship at East Central Regional Hospital in Augusta.
(706) 493-8833 View (706) 493-8833
Photo of Eddie Hancock - LifeStance Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(706) 981-8985 View (706) 981-8985
Photo of Mikayla Stovall, Counselor, EdS, APC
Mikayla Stovall
Counselor, EdS, APC
Serves Area
Mikayla Stovall, LAPC, is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health and substance use with a compassionate, energetic, and empathetic approach. Serving the state of Georgia, Mikayla offers specialized care in substance use, behavioral health, and mental health counseling. She is adept at providing clinical support to families and couples, ensuring that the unique needs of each individual client are always prioritized. Mikayla is particularly passionate about addressing issues related to substance use and medication-assisted treatment.
Mikayla Stovall, LAPC, is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health and substance use with a compassionate, energetic, and empathetic approach. Serving the state of Georgia, Mikayla offers specialized care in substance use, behavioral health, and mental health counseling. She is adept at providing clinical support to families and couples, ensuring that the unique needs of each individual client are always prioritized. Mikayla is particularly passionate about addressing issues related to substance use and medication-assisted treatment.
(706) 912-8572 View (706) 912-8572
Photo of Ellen Jenkins, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Ellen Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
Ellie received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Georgia and her Master of Psychology from Augusta University. Following her internship at LifeStance, formerly Families Forward, she decided to stay on as a therapist. Ellie loves working with people of all ages. She has worked with patients who experience anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, anger management, mood dysregulation, low self-esteem, and PTSD. She also has training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Ellie prioritizes creating an empathetic environment to strengthen the therapeutic relationship.
Ellie received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Georgia and her Master of Psychology from Augusta University. Following her internship at LifeStance, formerly Families Forward, she decided to stay on as a therapist. Ellie loves working with people of all ages. She has worked with patients who experience anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, anger management, mood dysregulation, low self-esteem, and PTSD. She also has training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Ellie prioritizes creating an empathetic environment to strengthen the therapeutic relationship.
(706) 444-2782 View (706) 444-2782
Photo of Joanna Crockett, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Joanna Crockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
Joanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2010. She graduated from Troy University with a M.S. in Counseling and Psychology. Joanna uses an integrative approach to therapy based on the unique needs of the individual. She is committed to the belief that each person is worthy and has tremendous value. She is passionate about facilitating wellness in those with depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and substance abuse. In her spare time, Joanna enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.
Joanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2010. She graduated from Troy University with a M.S. in Counseling and Psychology. Joanna uses an integrative approach to therapy based on the unique needs of the individual. She is committed to the belief that each person is worthy and has tremendous value. She is passionate about facilitating wellness in those with depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and substance abuse. In her spare time, Joanna enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.
(706) 707-5883 View (706) 707-5883
Photo of Charles Bost, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Charles Bost
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Lawson Bost believes in order for real change to happen you have both feel safe and secure while “walking through” challenging experiences. By being curious and courageous, change of any kind is possible. Lawson's interventions can vary but they are always based on a client-centered approach. At the end of the day, feeling and believing you are safe to be who are is the number priority with Lawson. His main areas of focus include working with Family as a whole or each individual, Gender and Sexuality across the life span, and overall feeling stuck as it pertains to Anxiety, Depression and maladaptive behaviors.
Lawson Bost believes in order for real change to happen you have both feel safe and secure while “walking through” challenging experiences. By being curious and courageous, change of any kind is possible. Lawson's interventions can vary but they are always based on a client-centered approach. At the end of the day, feeling and believing you are safe to be who are is the number priority with Lawson. His main areas of focus include working with Family as a whole or each individual, Gender and Sexuality across the life span, and overall feeling stuck as it pertains to Anxiety, Depression and maladaptive behaviors.
(706) 707-5055 View (706) 707-5055
Photo of Allana Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Allana Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Welcome to Truly Her Counseling, a practice just for women. Life can be full of stressors, and it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, anxious or lost at times. That’s where we come in. This practice is designed to help women navigate through life’s challenges and emerge stronger and more resilient. Whether you’re struggling with relationship issues, trauma, career transitions, self esteem, or any other stressor, we are here to listen support, and guide you towards positive change.
Welcome to Truly Her Counseling, a practice just for women. Life can be full of stressors, and it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, anxious or lost at times. That’s where we come in. This practice is designed to help women navigate through life’s challenges and emerge stronger and more resilient. Whether you’re struggling with relationship issues, trauma, career transitions, self esteem, or any other stressor, we are here to listen support, and guide you towards positive change.
(706) 471-2299 View (706) 471-2299

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Malissa Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Malissa Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Augusta, GA 30909
Hi! I am Dr. Malissa Collins, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Georgia specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with individuals from various backgrounds, families, and couples. My Ph.D. is in Marriage and Family Therapy. My approach is warm and compassionate. My focus is to meet clients where they are and teach them ways to successfully navigate through life to meet goals. My clients appreciate my warmth, nonjudgmental style. It helps to make them feel relaxed and confident.
Hi! I am Dr. Malissa Collins, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Georgia specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with individuals from various backgrounds, families, and couples. My Ph.D. is in Marriage and Family Therapy. My approach is warm and compassionate. My focus is to meet clients where they are and teach them ways to successfully navigate through life to meet goals. My clients appreciate my warmth, nonjudgmental style. It helps to make them feel relaxed and confident.
(470) 865-5960 View (470) 865-5960
Photo of Kristen Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kristen Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here. Starting the journey toward healing or change can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can show up just as you are. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, or simply feeling stuck, my goal is to walk alongside you with compassion and clarity. I believe in honoring your unique story while helping you build skills and insight that support lasting growth. If you're ready to take the next step or just want to learn more, I invite you to reach out. I'd be honored to support you on your path.
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here. Starting the journey toward healing or change can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can show up just as you are. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, or simply feeling stuck, my goal is to walk alongside you with compassion and clarity. I believe in honoring your unique story while helping you build skills and insight that support lasting growth. If you're ready to take the next step or just want to learn more, I invite you to reach out. I'd be honored to support you on your path.
(404) 528-2715 View (404) 528-2715
Photo of Jason Belcourt, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jason Belcourt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? I'm Jason Belcourt, a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds navigate life’s challenges and access their inner resilience. My commitment is to walk alongside you and support your journey toward healing, restoration, and renewed purpose. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as working with couples facing conflict, communication challenges, and emotional disconnect. I offer a safe space where you can rediscover hope and develop skills for lasting growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? I'm Jason Belcourt, a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds navigate life’s challenges and access their inner resilience. My commitment is to walk alongside you and support your journey toward healing, restoration, and renewed purpose. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as working with couples facing conflict, communication challenges, and emotional disconnect. I offer a safe space where you can rediscover hope and develop skills for lasting growth.
(839) 400-9114 View (839) 400-9114
Photo of Michael James, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I have been a therapist for 13 years and have worked with individuals and couples with a variety of issues from relationship problems, trauma, substance abuse, mood disorders, thought disorders, and personality disorders. My experience includes working on an inpatient women's trauma unit, substance abuse hospital, teletherapy, and psychiatric hospitals. I have worked as a therapist, clinical director, and an executive in behavioral health and bring extensive experience working with a diverse group of people. I am trained to utilize several therapy techniques including CBT, DBT, CT, and EMDR.
I have been a therapist for 13 years and have worked with individuals and couples with a variety of issues from relationship problems, trauma, substance abuse, mood disorders, thought disorders, and personality disorders. My experience includes working on an inpatient women's trauma unit, substance abuse hospital, teletherapy, and psychiatric hospitals. I have worked as a therapist, clinical director, and an executive in behavioral health and bring extensive experience working with a diverse group of people. I am trained to utilize several therapy techniques including CBT, DBT, CT, and EMDR.
(229) 545-5689 View (229) 545-5689
Photo of Elizabeth Glaze, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Elizabeth Glaze
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Martinez, GA 30907
I am a licensed therapist with more than twenty years of experience. I am a Christian counselor with compassion for the struggles and hurts caused by life and living. My approach is gentle and supportive. I enjoy working with older teens and adults. I have experience working with clients on fear/ anxiety, family concerns, trauma healing, grief and other life issues. I also work extensively with the military and their family members and have specialized training in the unique issues of the members of our armed services. Other areas of interest include spiritual growth and development, healthy boundaries and stress management.
I am a licensed therapist with more than twenty years of experience. I am a Christian counselor with compassion for the struggles and hurts caused by life and living. My approach is gentle and supportive. I enjoy working with older teens and adults. I have experience working with clients on fear/ anxiety, family concerns, trauma healing, grief and other life issues. I also work extensively with the military and their family members and have specialized training in the unique issues of the members of our armed services. Other areas of interest include spiritual growth and development, healthy boundaries and stress management.
(706) 489-1577 View (706) 489-1577
Photo of Justin R Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Justin R Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Have you felt out of sync, unable to communicate clearly, frustrated and wanting to try something different but unhappy with what you've tried? There is hope. Through therapy, I can help you learn new ways of communicating, finding new perspectives to barriers and working through individual or relationship struggles to have your needs and wants met. If you are having difficulty making it through your everyday, dealing with the stresses of life, or managing anxiety and depression; I can help. I will help you learn new coping skills using your own personal strengths to assist you with enhancing your quality of life.
Have you felt out of sync, unable to communicate clearly, frustrated and wanting to try something different but unhappy with what you've tried? There is hope. Through therapy, I can help you learn new ways of communicating, finding new perspectives to barriers and working through individual or relationship struggles to have your needs and wants met. If you are having difficulty making it through your everyday, dealing with the stresses of life, or managing anxiety and depression; I can help. I will help you learn new coping skills using your own personal strengths to assist you with enhancing your quality of life.
(678) 264-6381 View (678) 264-6381
Photo of Jenny Bowen, Counselor, MS, LAPC
Jenny Bowen
Counselor, MS, LAPC
1 Endorsed
Augusta, GA 30901
I earned my master’s degree in clinical psychology from Augusta University and enjoy working with ages 14+ and with a range of challenges (e.g., depression, anxiety, complex PTSD). When you’re in my office, I want you to feel able to unwind and speak freely without fear of judgment. Your care will be individualized to you, and we’ll work together as a team. You can be sure your problems will always matter to me. I use an eclectic approach and choose techniques (e.g., person-centered, CBT, and DBT) to help you move toward your personal goals and develop a deeper understanding of yourself along the way.
I earned my master’s degree in clinical psychology from Augusta University and enjoy working with ages 14+ and with a range of challenges (e.g., depression, anxiety, complex PTSD). When you’re in my office, I want you to feel able to unwind and speak freely without fear of judgment. Your care will be individualized to you, and we’ll work together as a team. You can be sure your problems will always matter to me. I use an eclectic approach and choose techniques (e.g., person-centered, CBT, and DBT) to help you move toward your personal goals and develop a deeper understanding of yourself along the way.
(762) 889-1649 View (762) 889-1649

See more therapy options for Appling

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Appling, GA

10+

Average cost per session

$107

Therapists in Appling, GA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
92% Trauma and PTSD
85% Depression
69% Grief
69% Bipolar Disorder
54% ADHD
38% Child

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Humana

How Therapists in Appling, GA see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Appling?

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.