Therapists in Falls Church, VA

Photo of Marlene Joan Drucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Marlene Joan Drucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I have been in private practice for over 40 years. I tend to be warm, interactive and empathic with my clients as I believe a successful outcome is based on positive regard and trust between client and therapist. I am Humanistic and client centered in my approach, I believe that therapy is an ideal means to fully imagine one's potential and vision for a healthy, happy, and productive future however that is defined by the client.
I have been in private practice for over 40 years. I tend to be warm, interactive and empathic with my clients as I believe a successful outcome is based on positive regard and trust between client and therapist. I am Humanistic and client centered in my approach, I believe that therapy is an ideal means to fully imagine one's potential and vision for a healthy, happy, and productive future however that is defined by the client.
(703) 772-8775 View (703) 772-8775
Photo of Beth D. Pascoe, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Beth D. Pascoe, LCSW, CSAT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, couples therapy and sex/love addiction (affair recovery, porn addiction, serial affairs). I have extensive training in the field of cognitive behavior therapy, the "gold standard" in treating anxiety disorders. I have post-graduate training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, a researched-based couples therapy with high success rate. EFT can help you understand the negative cycle creating distance and conflict in your relationship. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist.
I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, couples therapy and sex/love addiction (affair recovery, porn addiction, serial affairs). I have extensive training in the field of cognitive behavior therapy, the "gold standard" in treating anxiety disorders. I have post-graduate training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, a researched-based couples therapy with high success rate. EFT can help you understand the negative cycle creating distance and conflict in your relationship. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist.
(703) 782-9123 View (703) 782-9123
Photo of Chia-Lun Chung, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Chia-Lun Chung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I have a generalist practice seeing adults and couples with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, parenting difficulties, and problematic adjustment and life transitions. I value understanding each person within their unique cultural context and helping them to maximize the most of what they want to achieve in their life circumstance.
I have a generalist practice seeing adults and couples with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, parenting difficulties, and problematic adjustment and life transitions. I value understanding each person within their unique cultural context and helping them to maximize the most of what they want to achieve in their life circumstance.
(703) 952-3329 View (703) 952-3329
Photo of Olga A Haines, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Olga A Haines
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Increasing self-awareness is a key point to understanding causes of distress one might feel. This can be accomplished through identifying problems, detecting unhealthy patterns, looking into deeper meanings of the events and core values. Tapping into past experiences and the unconscious mind can bring an important insight necessary for gaining control over our life. I provide a warm, welcoming environment for my clients, so they feel safe to open up and find the answers that they need.
Increasing self-awareness is a key point to understanding causes of distress one might feel. This can be accomplished through identifying problems, detecting unhealthy patterns, looking into deeper meanings of the events and core values. Tapping into past experiences and the unconscious mind can bring an important insight necessary for gaining control over our life. I provide a warm, welcoming environment for my clients, so they feel safe to open up and find the answers that they need.
(571) 487-8213 View (571) 487-8213
Photo of Stacy Saunders, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Stacy Saunders
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22041  (Online Only)
My goal is to meet people where they’re at along their journey with understanding and acceptance. Practicing independently since 2009, I have had the pleasure of working with people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and cultures. I believe therapy is a tool to cultivate meaningful change that allows us to live more fully in the present. I consider it a privilege to help others gain insight, find acceptance, and change unhelpful thinking patterns so they can feel more satisfied with life. In my approach, all personal goals are respected and valued. I believe everyone can be successful in their personal growth with the right tools.
My goal is to meet people where they’re at along their journey with understanding and acceptance. Practicing independently since 2009, I have had the pleasure of working with people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and cultures. I believe therapy is a tool to cultivate meaningful change that allows us to live more fully in the present. I consider it a privilege to help others gain insight, find acceptance, and change unhelpful thinking patterns so they can feel more satisfied with life. In my approach, all personal goals are respected and valued. I believe everyone can be successful in their personal growth with the right tools.
(703) 686-5457 View (703) 686-5457
Andrew Goldfarb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, CSOTP, ATSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am a Clinical Member of the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers, and a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. I am available to individuals, couples, families, groups and systems seeking professional consultation, personal counseling, and clinical treatment. I provide general and specialized clinical services addressing issues of mental health, emotion management and self-regulation problems related to anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, pornography, sexual intimacy and/or addiction, life transitions and stage of change challenges. I specialize in women's relational issues caused by criminal matters and general partner relational problems.
I am a Clinical Member of the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers, and a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. I am available to individuals, couples, families, groups and systems seeking professional consultation, personal counseling, and clinical treatment. I provide general and specialized clinical services addressing issues of mental health, emotion management and self-regulation problems related to anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, pornography, sexual intimacy and/or addiction, life transitions and stage of change challenges. I specialize in women's relational issues caused by criminal matters and general partner relational problems.
(571) 601-3060 View (571) 601-3060
Photo of Patricia H Powers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Patricia H Powers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN, CSAC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Change is hard. The emotions that arise can be painful to face and sometimes feel as if they keep us from moving forward. These changes are what I call the "difficult bumps" or "nodes" in life. I think of it this way: When the "nodes" of the cut stem of a plant are nourished with water they grow into roots. The stem transforms into a thriving plant, its roots anchoring it solidly to the ground. I help clients to recognize their "bumps" as an opportunity to transform pain into new roots of empowerment, self-worth, and self-appreciation.
Change is hard. The emotions that arise can be painful to face and sometimes feel as if they keep us from moving forward. These changes are what I call the "difficult bumps" or "nodes" in life. I think of it this way: When the "nodes" of the cut stem of a plant are nourished with water they grow into roots. The stem transforms into a thriving plant, its roots anchoring it solidly to the ground. I help clients to recognize their "bumps" as an opportunity to transform pain into new roots of empowerment, self-worth, and self-appreciation.
(703) 940-9728 View (703) 940-9728
Photo of Melissa Crespo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Melissa Crespo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
Hi there! Opening up to someone about what is causing you pain can be a challenge. You don’t have to be alone in the process. By working through a collaborative approach, together we will identify skills that will bring about positive change to help reach your goals. I am here to partner with you as you work towards healing. My goal is to provide a warm and supportive environment in which you will feel heard and foster self-growth. I support youth and adults during life transitions, social anxiety, self-esteem, and emotional or behavioral concerns.
Hi there! Opening up to someone about what is causing you pain can be a challenge. You don’t have to be alone in the process. By working through a collaborative approach, together we will identify skills that will bring about positive change to help reach your goals. I am here to partner with you as you work towards healing. My goal is to provide a warm and supportive environment in which you will feel heard and foster self-growth. I support youth and adults during life transitions, social anxiety, self-esteem, and emotional or behavioral concerns.
(571) 701-2105 View (571) 701-2105
Photo of Oksana Marchenko, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Falls Church, VA
Oksana Marchenko
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Everyone may experience challenges with mental health depending on life circumstances. I believe people are capable of change when internally motivated and properly supported. Sometimes, however, it may seem that change is near impossible, especially when you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, recently experienced loss or going through a life transition. Together we will create a roadmap for you to begin making small changes, one step at a time, towards a more fulfilling and rewarding future. Our therapeutic relationship will be built on a foundation of unconditional positive regard and open and honest communication.
Everyone may experience challenges with mental health depending on life circumstances. I believe people are capable of change when internally motivated and properly supported. Sometimes, however, it may seem that change is near impossible, especially when you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, recently experienced loss or going through a life transition. Together we will create a roadmap for you to begin making small changes, one step at a time, towards a more fulfilling and rewarding future. Our therapeutic relationship will be built on a foundation of unconditional positive regard and open and honest communication.
(571) 200-8799 View (571) 200-8799
Photo of Barra Kahn in Falls Church, VA
Barra Kahn
MA, ACCEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22044
What if everything we’ve been taught about life is a myth? What if the traditional formula for health and happiness doesn’t pertain to you? Are those rules about fitting into someone else’s version of what life should be? Do those rules inspire you, or do they keep your life - and your dreams - small? Solving problems in your head is an old-school and outdated strategy. Accessing the wisdom of the body is the new paradigm. At Next Generation Core, we will dig deeper to build a growth mindset.
What if everything we’ve been taught about life is a myth? What if the traditional formula for health and happiness doesn’t pertain to you? Are those rules about fitting into someone else’s version of what life should be? Do those rules inspire you, or do they keep your life - and your dreams - small? Solving problems in your head is an old-school and outdated strategy. Accessing the wisdom of the body is the new paradigm. At Next Generation Core, we will dig deeper to build a growth mindset.
(571) 778-3013 View (571) 778-3013
Photo of Melissa L Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Melissa L Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Are you feeling off-balance? Is the chaos of daily life spinning around you - making it impossible to decide and take action? Do you notice yourself ruminating or experiencing intrusive thoughts? Do you tend to overthink the “what-if’s” which diminishes your sense of inner peace? You are not alone. Therapy with me means that you will experience a safe, open and non-judgmental environment that allows you the opportunity to navigate life’s challenges while finding inner-calm and bringing balance back to your life.
Are you feeling off-balance? Is the chaos of daily life spinning around you - making it impossible to decide and take action? Do you notice yourself ruminating or experiencing intrusive thoughts? Do you tend to overthink the “what-if’s” which diminishes your sense of inner peace? You are not alone. Therapy with me means that you will experience a safe, open and non-judgmental environment that allows you the opportunity to navigate life’s challenges while finding inner-calm and bringing balance back to your life.
(571) 536-7285 View (571) 536-7285
Photo of Olya Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Olya Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IFS CER, IFIO
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Parenting, being a teenager, and being in a relationship can be some of the most fulfilling and challenging parts of life! I specialize in helping people, who are in strained relationships or struggling with trauma and other things that are private, find a new path. Life is full of difficulties, but often underneath it all is a lack of connection and belonging. I make it safe for teens and parents, adults and couples to get unstuck and talk about the real stuff that makes it difficult to live a satisfied life and thrive.
Parenting, being a teenager, and being in a relationship can be some of the most fulfilling and challenging parts of life! I specialize in helping people, who are in strained relationships or struggling with trauma and other things that are private, find a new path. Life is full of difficulties, but often underneath it all is a lack of connection and belonging. I make it safe for teens and parents, adults and couples to get unstuck and talk about the real stuff that makes it difficult to live a satisfied life and thrive.
(703) 215-3890 View (703) 215-3890
Photo of Debbie Beach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Debbie Beach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience. I specialize in couples therapy, Parenting Coordination and Collaborative Divorce Coaching. I am a certified Gottman Therapist and have studied and practice Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. I provide practical, research based skills to couples looking to improve their relationships. We typically seek therapy to relieve symptoms that are causing problems with physical health, relationships and daily living. When healing begins, we can live more peacefully in the present. I strive to create a safe and compassionate atmosphere where you can explore your life circumstances.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience. I specialize in couples therapy, Parenting Coordination and Collaborative Divorce Coaching. I am a certified Gottman Therapist and have studied and practice Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. I provide practical, research based skills to couples looking to improve their relationships. We typically seek therapy to relieve symptoms that are causing problems with physical health, relationships and daily living. When healing begins, we can live more peacefully in the present. I strive to create a safe and compassionate atmosphere where you can explore your life circumstances.
(703) 957-7343 View (703) 957-7343
Photo of Jennifer Lanouette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Jennifer Lanouette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
My practice is focused on helping individuals and families recover from loss, whether you are grieving a recent loss or processing grief from years ago. I believe that grief is a deeply human response to loss that can be perfectly normal and feel awful at the same time. I offer authentic, open-hearted presence and compassionate witness to whatever emotions arise in grief, and believe that truly being seen in our grief is an initial step in healing. Rather than "moving on" I believe we learn to carry and integrate loss into our life story.
My practice is focused on helping individuals and families recover from loss, whether you are grieving a recent loss or processing grief from years ago. I believe that grief is a deeply human response to loss that can be perfectly normal and feel awful at the same time. I offer authentic, open-hearted presence and compassionate witness to whatever emotions arise in grief, and believe that truly being seen in our grief is an initial step in healing. Rather than "moving on" I believe we learn to carry and integrate loss into our life story.
(571) 554-2068 View (571) 554-2068
Photo of Marya A Myslinski, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Marya A Myslinski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
As a licensed clinical psychologist offering psychotherapy to adults (18 and older), I treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, and issues stemming back to childhood. My practice attracts clients with a wide variety of concerns and I welcome the variability. For example, I find it incredibly rewarding to help clients who are feeling stuck and afraid due to issues such as unhealthy relationship patterns, alcohol abuse, postpartum depression, etc. I am passionate about helping those facing discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation etc.
As a licensed clinical psychologist offering psychotherapy to adults (18 and older), I treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, and issues stemming back to childhood. My practice attracts clients with a wide variety of concerns and I welcome the variability. For example, I find it incredibly rewarding to help clients who are feeling stuck and afraid due to issues such as unhealthy relationship patterns, alcohol abuse, postpartum depression, etc. I am passionate about helping those facing discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation etc.
(540) 212-2558 View (540) 212-2558
Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22042
I am an international adoptee and have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families from all walks of life. I also enjoy working with people around the following areas: adoption, foster care, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, ADHD, learning disability, interpersonal relationships, family conflict, life transitions, and crisis interventions.
I am an international adoptee and have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families from all walks of life. I also enjoy working with people around the following areas: adoption, foster care, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, ADHD, learning disability, interpersonal relationships, family conflict, life transitions, and crisis interventions.
(571) 202-7322 x250 View (571) 202-7322 x250
Photo of Brittany Evelyn, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Brittany Evelyn
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
It is my privilege to walk alongside you in your journey towards healing and change. I enjoy working with couples and families, as my approach considers our contexts and importance of foundational relationships. I believe that we are products of our environments, relationships, interactions, and cultural contexts. These all play a role in our lives, and it is imperative that we understand how. I will work with you to consider your role and the role that others play on you. My systemic approach seeks to understand and make connections between the individual(s) and other factors.
It is my privilege to walk alongside you in your journey towards healing and change. I enjoy working with couples and families, as my approach considers our contexts and importance of foundational relationships. I believe that we are products of our environments, relationships, interactions, and cultural contexts. These all play a role in our lives, and it is imperative that we understand how. I will work with you to consider your role and the role that others play on you. My systemic approach seeks to understand and make connections between the individual(s) and other factors.
(571) 946-8359 View (571) 946-8359
Photo of Dr. Howard Crumpton, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Dr. Howard Crumpton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
In our office, clients are our guests. You are welcome - as an individual or a family - into a safe space, a second home. And as our guest, you will experience a comforting environment where you can share your most vulnerable moments openly, in confidence, and without judgment. Together, we will identify and address your concerns and your goals. Throughout the process, there will be reflection, learning and laughing on the way to clarity and empowerment.
In our office, clients are our guests. You are welcome - as an individual or a family - into a safe space, a second home. And as our guest, you will experience a comforting environment where you can share your most vulnerable moments openly, in confidence, and without judgment. Together, we will identify and address your concerns and your goals. Throughout the process, there will be reflection, learning and laughing on the way to clarity and empowerment.
(510) 488-2082 View (510) 488-2082
Photo of Doug Fagen, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Doug Fagen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Life today can be overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, and self-doubt accompany many of us as we try to figure out who we are, and who we are trying to become. Trauma, grief, and loss are part of many people’s lives. It can be easy to lose our way. Fortunately, there are ways that we can regain our footing, find meaning in our lives, and develop healthy ways to cope with all of the challenges that come our way. This is the focus of my psychotherapy work. My practice specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, family conflict, and relationship difficulties.
Life today can be overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, and self-doubt accompany many of us as we try to figure out who we are, and who we are trying to become. Trauma, grief, and loss are part of many people’s lives. It can be easy to lose our way. Fortunately, there are ways that we can regain our footing, find meaning in our lives, and develop healthy ways to cope with all of the challenges that come our way. This is the focus of my psychotherapy work. My practice specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, family conflict, and relationship difficulties.
(571) 946-5255 View (571) 946-5255
Photo of Robert A Fontana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Robert A Fontana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
After 33 years of being an individual, couples and family therapist I am announcing my retirement. I wish to thank all my colleagues, some of whom have been solid mentors and friends for all their support during this challenging and rewarding career. I also wish to thank the many clients who have trusted me with their most personal stories, traumas, and loss. Your resilience has always made me feel honored to venture into the uncharted territory of hopefully discovering the right solution. Always being guided by you the client, a mutual self discovery was the magic we often encountered. Thank you and good luck to all.
After 33 years of being an individual, couples and family therapist I am announcing my retirement. I wish to thank all my colleagues, some of whom have been solid mentors and friends for all their support during this challenging and rewarding career. I also wish to thank the many clients who have trusted me with their most personal stories, traumas, and loss. Your resilience has always made me feel honored to venture into the uncharted territory of hopefully discovering the right solution. Always being guided by you the client, a mutual self discovery was the magic we often encountered. Thank you and good luck to all.
(703) 596-3244 View (703) 596-3244

See more therapy options for Falls Church

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Falls Church, VA

500+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Falls Church, VA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
67% Stress
64% Coping Skills
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% CareFirst
53% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Falls Church, VA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Falls Church?

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.