Therapists in Rochester, MI

Photo of Sarah Marie Marker, Counselor in Rochester, MI
Sarah Marie Marker
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Rochester, MI 48306  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Sarah. I am extremely passionate about helping people find more peace and calm in their lives. I truly believe that every person is doing the best that they can with the knowledge and skills they have. My hope is that therapy would allow you to deepen your understanding of yourself and what makes you happiest. If there is an area in your life that you find yourself consistently struggling in, I would love to be your teammate in empowering you to overcome it. Life will always have its obstacles, but simple, personalized tools can make a world of a difference for each and every person.
Hi! My name is Sarah. I am extremely passionate about helping people find more peace and calm in their lives. I truly believe that every person is doing the best that they can with the knowledge and skills they have. My hope is that therapy would allow you to deepen your understanding of yourself and what makes you happiest. If there is an area in your life that you find yourself consistently struggling in, I would love to be your teammate in empowering you to overcome it. Life will always have its obstacles, but simple, personalized tools can make a world of a difference for each and every person.
(248) 609-4913 View (248) 609-4913
Eric Beshears
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
All evidence based interventions are complimented with humor, compassion, high treatment expectations, unorthodox candor, and professionalism.
All evidence based interventions are complimented with humor, compassion, high treatment expectations, unorthodox candor, and professionalism.
(248) 243-4424 View (248) 243-4424
Photo of Diane Johnston, Counselor in Rochester, MI
Diane Johnston
Counselor, MPA, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to meet you where you are currently in the process of change and healing. I will provide you with a trusting & honest therapeutic environment. I provide safe assistance for women with anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, & depression. My specialization is working with women building self esteem, healthy relationships, and coping skills, while managing health issues, life stress, hopelessness, and trauma. I motivate women to create positive life changes through a holistic and therapeutic approach. Member MI TriCounty Trauma Recovery Network (TRN) and Oakland County Suicide task force. EMDR certified by Emdria.
My goal is to meet you where you are currently in the process of change and healing. I will provide you with a trusting & honest therapeutic environment. I provide safe assistance for women with anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, & depression. My specialization is working with women building self esteem, healthy relationships, and coping skills, while managing health issues, life stress, hopelessness, and trauma. I motivate women to create positive life changes through a holistic and therapeutic approach. Member MI TriCounty Trauma Recovery Network (TRN) and Oakland County Suicide task force. EMDR certified by Emdria.
(947) 800-5780 View (947) 800-5780
Photo of Daniel Shepherd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rochester, MI
Daniel Shepherd
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
It would be great to anticipate going home at the end of the day. You can remember those days, along with going for walks, or playing your favorite games, or sharing adventures. Romantic evenings with favorite foods, music, and lights? Life as normal, without constant arguments, miscommunications, and financial stress? Yes, you did have all of this in the beginning. In the beginning. . . but not now. There is some idea as to what happened; where it all began to go downhill. Sadly, you have no idea how to stop the problems, except to break up or divorce. Not good! And what's worse, everyone wants to tell you what to do.
It would be great to anticipate going home at the end of the day. You can remember those days, along with going for walks, or playing your favorite games, or sharing adventures. Romantic evenings with favorite foods, music, and lights? Life as normal, without constant arguments, miscommunications, and financial stress? Yes, you did have all of this in the beginning. In the beginning. . . but not now. There is some idea as to what happened; where it all began to go downhill. Sadly, you have no idea how to stop the problems, except to break up or divorce. Not good! And what's worse, everyone wants to tell you what to do.
(947) 333-8077 View (947) 333-8077
Photo of A Compass Within Personal Consulting PLLC, Psychologist in Rochester, MI
A Compass Within Personal Consulting PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
At A Compass Within Personal Consulting, we believe individuals have the ability to attain self-fulfillment and the right to the highest quality of care. We provide a warm, professional atmosphere where rigorous measures are taken to maintain our clients' the privacy. Our clinicians are trained in numerous modalities and evidence-based practices that have been shown to be effective in treating a variety of presenting concerns. If you are looking for a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere to discuss life's challenges, or you require enhanced discretion because of your unique circumstances, ACW will always strive to accommodate your needs.
At A Compass Within Personal Consulting, we believe individuals have the ability to attain self-fulfillment and the right to the highest quality of care. We provide a warm, professional atmosphere where rigorous measures are taken to maintain our clients' the privacy. Our clinicians are trained in numerous modalities and evidence-based practices that have been shown to be effective in treating a variety of presenting concerns. If you are looking for a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere to discuss life's challenges, or you require enhanced discretion because of your unique circumstances, ACW will always strive to accommodate your needs.
(248) 567-6921 View (248) 567-6921
Photo of Tara Yombor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rochester, MI
Tara Yombor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
During my years working in private practice, I have assisted clients with transforming their lives from desperation and crippling anxiety to a life filled with love and serenity. I have watched families who were broken by addiction who now live a chaotic-free life with the tools to enhance their communication and rid themselves of codependent behaviors. I have had the pleasure of watching couples learn to love and support each other and build a stronger relationship. My goal in founding my practice is to support others to find calmness and wholeness within their lives and relationships.
During my years working in private practice, I have assisted clients with transforming their lives from desperation and crippling anxiety to a life filled with love and serenity. I have watched families who were broken by addiction who now live a chaotic-free life with the tools to enhance their communication and rid themselves of codependent behaviors. I have had the pleasure of watching couples learn to love and support each other and build a stronger relationship. My goal in founding my practice is to support others to find calmness and wholeness within their lives and relationships.
(248) 846-1175 View (248) 846-1175
Photo of Samantha Piro, Counselor in Rochester, MI
Samantha Piro
Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT500
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
Healing begins to take place when we have a space to truly feel heard, understood, and seen. I seek to create this space where you feel safe to be you. Healing is a not a linear, one-size-fits-all experience, and I welcome multiple perspectives. I work with individuals and couples on a variety of topics including relationship difficulties, trauma, overwhelming thoughts & emotions, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I enjoy being emotionally present and journeying with people to discover their unique way to healing their lives and living a more joyful life.
Healing begins to take place when we have a space to truly feel heard, understood, and seen. I seek to create this space where you feel safe to be you. Healing is a not a linear, one-size-fits-all experience, and I welcome multiple perspectives. I work with individuals and couples on a variety of topics including relationship difficulties, trauma, overwhelming thoughts & emotions, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I enjoy being emotionally present and journeying with people to discover their unique way to healing their lives and living a more joyful life.
(947) 888-7903 View (947) 888-7903
Photo of Dr. Nicole Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rochester, MI
Dr. Nicole Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
Strengthening marriages is my passion and my life’s mission. I want to know what are your biggest struggles in your relationship right now, and figure out the fastest and most effective way to change them forever. I understand not being able to see past today when today feels so terrible, I totally get that. But I am also thinking about your future selves in 10, 20, 30 years from now. What changes do we have to make right now, that will set you up for that bright and happy future that I want for both of you?
Strengthening marriages is my passion and my life’s mission. I want to know what are your biggest struggles in your relationship right now, and figure out the fastest and most effective way to change them forever. I understand not being able to see past today when today feels so terrible, I totally get that. But I am also thinking about your future selves in 10, 20, 30 years from now. What changes do we have to make right now, that will set you up for that bright and happy future that I want for both of you?
View
Photo of Lily K Saari, Counselor in Rochester, MI
Lily K Saari
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48309
My intended target population is families, particularly children and adolescents with the hope that these skills can be refined throughout the course of their life. I also would like to specialize in marriage and family at some point to work with parents of these children to assist them in creating patterns that fit the lifestyle they are trying to create. Every client has a different perspective on what healthy living is and respect those boundaries accordingly. Therefore, I use an integrative humanistic theoretical approach that utilizes narrative and cognitive behavioral tactics to organize information and practice goal setting.
My intended target population is families, particularly children and adolescents with the hope that these skills can be refined throughout the course of their life. I also would like to specialize in marriage and family at some point to work with parents of these children to assist them in creating patterns that fit the lifestyle they are trying to create. Every client has a different perspective on what healthy living is and respect those boundaries accordingly. Therefore, I use an integrative humanistic theoretical approach that utilizes narrative and cognitive behavioral tactics to organize information and practice goal setting.
(248) 665-8822 View (248) 665-8822
Photo of Roots & Wings Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Rochester, MI
Roots & Wings Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rochester, MI 48307
We are all on a journey towards improved health and wholeness, but the road to healing can often be difficult to navigate. Life challenges can result in feelings of anger, depression, anxiety, and loss of control. Often times we might experience physical symptoms as a result of ongoing stress as well. These same struggles, however, can be opportunities for growth. Our counseling professionals will walk with you on your journey of self-discovery, and together we will uncover your unique strengths, develop coping skills, increase self-confidence, and work toward restoring balance in your life.
We are all on a journey towards improved health and wholeness, but the road to healing can often be difficult to navigate. Life challenges can result in feelings of anger, depression, anxiety, and loss of control. Often times we might experience physical symptoms as a result of ongoing stress as well. These same struggles, however, can be opportunities for growth. Our counseling professionals will walk with you on your journey of self-discovery, and together we will uncover your unique strengths, develop coping skills, increase self-confidence, and work toward restoring balance in your life.
(248) 365-7254 View (248) 365-7254
Photo of Abraham Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rochester, MI
Abraham Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rochester, MI 48307  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Selina Abraham. I am a licensed professional counselor(LPC) as well as a nationally certified counselor(NCC). I have worked in the counseling field for over 20 years with adolescents as a school counselor and with adults. My focus is depression, anxiety, and grief. My belief is that everyone can achieve peace and contentment with their life. I am calm, warm, and compassionate and find that clients enjoy speaking with me. I believe that your desires and goals for your life are possible by taking one step at a time to achieve them. I want to help you do that.
Hi, my name is Selina Abraham. I am a licensed professional counselor(LPC) as well as a nationally certified counselor(NCC). I have worked in the counseling field for over 20 years with adolescents as a school counselor and with adults. My focus is depression, anxiety, and grief. My belief is that everyone can achieve peace and contentment with their life. I am calm, warm, and compassionate and find that clients enjoy speaking with me. I believe that your desires and goals for your life are possible by taking one step at a time to achieve them. I want to help you do that.
(248) 939-5323 View (248) 939-5323
Photo of Ann Dadah, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rochester, MI
Ann Dadah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
With so many people seeking Mental Health Services, it is so important that the match between therapist and client is one in which the client is comfortable and confident. Reaching out for help can be a difficult and sometimes scary process, but I can commit to making this a simple, smooth and stress-free journey for you. My specialties are resolving issues related to Anxiety and Depression, Trauma, Anger, Grief and Loss, Adjustment Disorders, Relationship Issues, Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior, or struggling with stress related to lingering emotional problems from the pandemic. You deserve to be happy! Call now. Ann
With so many people seeking Mental Health Services, it is so important that the match between therapist and client is one in which the client is comfortable and confident. Reaching out for help can be a difficult and sometimes scary process, but I can commit to making this a simple, smooth and stress-free journey for you. My specialties are resolving issues related to Anxiety and Depression, Trauma, Anger, Grief and Loss, Adjustment Disorders, Relationship Issues, Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior, or struggling with stress related to lingering emotional problems from the pandemic. You deserve to be happy! Call now. Ann
(248) 940-3533 View (248) 940-3533
Photo of Robert Kender, Psychologist in Rochester, MI
Robert Kender
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
I work with a variety of individuals, from ages 15 to 115, whether they come in seeking symptom relief for depression or anxiety, or they are facing challenges involving more existential issues. I believe in building a strong trusting relationship with those I work with, and with this type of foundation in place, we can explore everything from grief and loss, to issues surrounding sexuality; from how you see your place in this world, to ways that you can best integrate yourself into it. Your conception of your own self-actualization is my most important guideline.
I work with a variety of individuals, from ages 15 to 115, whether they come in seeking symptom relief for depression or anxiety, or they are facing challenges involving more existential issues. I believe in building a strong trusting relationship with those I work with, and with this type of foundation in place, we can explore everything from grief and loss, to issues surrounding sexuality; from how you see your place in this world, to ways that you can best integrate yourself into it. Your conception of your own self-actualization is my most important guideline.
(248) 782-6136 View (248) 782-6136
Photo of Counseling For All, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rochester, MI
Counseling For All
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
Counseling should be comfortable, with someone you can relate to. There will be times when things are discussed that are not easy. But people should have trust in their therapist without feeling judged
Counseling should be comfortable, with someone you can relate to. There will be times when things are discussed that are not easy. But people should have trust in their therapist without feeling judged
(248) 780-1120 View (248) 780-1120
Photo of Brian Thiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rochester, MI
Brian Thiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
Come on in, have a seat, and let's talk. Life’s struggles can sometimes feel overwhelming or impossible. Trauma, anxiety, and depression are just a few of the things that hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. I'm here to listen, and I'm here to help. I take an empathetic, non-judgmental, and sometimes humorous approach while working with clients to help them reach their goals. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and kids with a wide range of mental health disorders. My aim is to understand your unique situation and work together so that you can take that next step with confidence!
Come on in, have a seat, and let's talk. Life’s struggles can sometimes feel overwhelming or impossible. Trauma, anxiety, and depression are just a few of the things that hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. I'm here to listen, and I'm here to help. I take an empathetic, non-judgmental, and sometimes humorous approach while working with clients to help them reach their goals. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and kids with a wide range of mental health disorders. My aim is to understand your unique situation and work together so that you can take that next step with confidence!
(248) 826-1586 View (248) 826-1586
Photo of Lauryn Shugars, Counselor in Rochester, MI
Lauryn Shugars
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
I work with individuals, families and couples that struggle with a variety of issues (i.e. anxiety, depression, life transitions and various health conditions) providing services ranging from counseling to wellness coaching to group support and education. Areas of focus include emotional health and physical well-being, spiritual health and purpose. I integrate traditional counseling techniques with mind, body, and spirit elements to help clients better identify their strengths, desires, and tools of resilience for effectively navigating through life.
I work with individuals, families and couples that struggle with a variety of issues (i.e. anxiety, depression, life transitions and various health conditions) providing services ranging from counseling to wellness coaching to group support and education. Areas of focus include emotional health and physical well-being, spiritual health and purpose. I integrate traditional counseling techniques with mind, body, and spirit elements to help clients better identify their strengths, desires, and tools of resilience for effectively navigating through life.
(947) 333-8565 View (947) 333-8565
Photo of Nancy M Harshfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rochester, MI
Nancy M Harshfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Rochester, MI 48307
In todays climate it is not uncommon to have anxiety, depression, or even find yourself turning to substances that maybe you have not in the past. I recognize that not only adults, but our children are having to face mental health issues, that before may not have been on their radar. I recognize these mental health issues are on the rise and you just may need someone to talk to or process your world around you with all these stressors. I have worked in hospice for a decade, helping patients and families navigate the end of life process, as well as work with trauma patients from military experience and auto accidents.
In todays climate it is not uncommon to have anxiety, depression, or even find yourself turning to substances that maybe you have not in the past. I recognize that not only adults, but our children are having to face mental health issues, that before may not have been on their radar. I recognize these mental health issues are on the rise and you just may need someone to talk to or process your world around you with all these stressors. I have worked in hospice for a decade, helping patients and families navigate the end of life process, as well as work with trauma patients from military experience and auto accidents.
(248) 218-9750 View (248) 218-9750
Photo of Aspects Counseling - Rebecca Trouse, Counselor in Rochester, MI
Aspects Counseling - Rebecca Trouse
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, BCPCC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
Not accepting new clients
Are you looking for support or a safe place to recover emotionally from life's storms? Do you desire to restore and strengthen relationships? Perhaps it is time to explore new possibilities for your life. Whatever issue you are facing, please know your well-being is of utmost importance. Aiding you in the process of reaching your goals is the prime objective in counseling. Let's work together, creating strategies for improving emotions, behaviors, or relationships. Please call today so we can discuss which options may be best for you. I look forward to talking with you soon. 248-805-1108
Are you looking for support or a safe place to recover emotionally from life's storms? Do you desire to restore and strengthen relationships? Perhaps it is time to explore new possibilities for your life. Whatever issue you are facing, please know your well-being is of utmost importance. Aiding you in the process of reaching your goals is the prime objective in counseling. Let's work together, creating strategies for improving emotions, behaviors, or relationships. Please call today so we can discuss which options may be best for you. I look forward to talking with you soon. 248-805-1108
(248) 805-1108 View (248) 805-1108
Photo of Jamie K Rodda, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rochester, MI
Jamie K Rodda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48307
Waitlist for new clients
Ladies, are you looking for just a 'normal person' who you can feel comfortable with? I am down-to-earth, approachable, and know how to help you overcome worry, overwhelm, and feeling stuck using a variety of evidence based treatment styles and Christian perspectives. I am very easygoing and relatable, which helps me to quickly build strong relationships with my clients. Each session we will focus on your top concerns and you will feel authenticity, genuine connection, and warm and focused support. Email me right now to begin to experience the peaceful, balanced life you’ve been waiting so long for. I can't wait to hear from you!
Ladies, are you looking for just a 'normal person' who you can feel comfortable with? I am down-to-earth, approachable, and know how to help you overcome worry, overwhelm, and feeling stuck using a variety of evidence based treatment styles and Christian perspectives. I am very easygoing and relatable, which helps me to quickly build strong relationships with my clients. Each session we will focus on your top concerns and you will feel authenticity, genuine connection, and warm and focused support. Email me right now to begin to experience the peaceful, balanced life you’ve been waiting so long for. I can't wait to hear from you!
(248) 956-6437 View (248) 956-6437
Photo of Jennifer Shields, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rochester, MI
Jennifer Shields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, MI 48307  (Online Only)
In the whirlwind of life's demands, the fast-paced nature can be overwhelming, necessitating us to navigate our busy routines, sometimes at the expense of our emotional well-being and reflection on personal priorities. This can result in a sense of entrapment and uncertainty about how to enhance our circumstances. I provide supportive guidance to foster genuine self-awareness, empowering individuals to discern their needs and navigate life with a mindful and self-energized approach.
In the whirlwind of life's demands, the fast-paced nature can be overwhelming, necessitating us to navigate our busy routines, sometimes at the expense of our emotional well-being and reflection on personal priorities. This can result in a sense of entrapment and uncertainty about how to enhance our circumstances. I provide supportive guidance to foster genuine self-awareness, empowering individuals to discern their needs and navigate life with a mindful and self-energized approach.
(248) 331-8675 View (248) 331-8675

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Rochester, MI

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Rochester, MI who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
79% Grief
79% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% Blue Care Network
58% Aetna

How Therapists in Rochester, MI see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Rochester?

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.