Photo of Cynthia Wang, LGPC, NCC, Counselor
Cynthia Wang
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
There are points in life when you might feel that you have lost control of how you are living. In our time together, I help navigate what’s causing you distress by inviting you to turn inward and reconnect with your inner resources. My clinical focus is working with individuals going through challenging life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/cultural conflict, and grief.
There are points in life when you might feel that you have lost control of how you are living. In our time together, I help navigate what’s causing you distress by inviting you to turn inward and reconnect with your inner resources. My clinical focus is working with individuals going through challenging life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/cultural conflict, and grief.
(202) 733-6669 View (202) 733-6669
Photo of Monica Megivern - Community Counseling Services Center, Pre-Licensed Professional
Community Counseling Services Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
The Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) is a training clinic located at The George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We provide affordable mental health counseling services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We offer evidence-based individual, family, career, and couples counseling to address a wide variety of mental health concerns, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges. Our clinicians are master’s students in our Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling programs and doctoral students in our Counseling and Supervision Ph.D. program.
The Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) is a training clinic located at The George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We provide affordable mental health counseling services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We offer evidence-based individual, family, career, and couples counseling to address a wide variety of mental health concerns, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges. Our clinicians are master’s students in our Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling programs and doctoral students in our Counseling and Supervision Ph.D. program.
(202) 968-3320 View (202) 968-3320
Photo of Kortnie Parks - Beneath the Surface Therapy , LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beneath the Surface Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
Ready to stop carrying the weight of it all alone? Let me help! You may be known for having it all together—balancing work, life, and relationships—but inside, you struggle to find the support you need. I specialize in helping high-achieving BIPOC women and young professionals who face 'high-functioning' anxiety, depression, and stress. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking self-discovery, or work-life harmony. I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can finally be vulnerable and heard. Together, we’ll uncover what’s beneath the mask, address those hidden emotional wounds, to help you heal and thrive.
Ready to stop carrying the weight of it all alone? Let me help! You may be known for having it all together—balancing work, life, and relationships—but inside, you struggle to find the support you need. I specialize in helping high-achieving BIPOC women and young professionals who face 'high-functioning' anxiety, depression, and stress. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking self-discovery, or work-life harmony. I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can finally be vulnerable and heard. Together, we’ll uncover what’s beneath the mask, address those hidden emotional wounds, to help you heal and thrive.
(877) 566-1744 View (877) 566-1744
Photo of Kathleen M McNulty, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen M McNulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
Do you worry that you are not a good enough parent, partner or friend? Do you have trouble getting to sleep when you are overloaded with thoughts about mistakes you've made? Do you wake up most mornings feeling depressed or anxious? Are your moods swinging- you have a short fuse- or are you shutting down? If yes, you could be suffering from depression & anxiety. The cause could be chemical-due to a family history or it could be situational-due to a loss or traumatic event. Traumatic events include becoming a caregiver to a family member with mental illness.
Do you worry that you are not a good enough parent, partner or friend? Do you have trouble getting to sleep when you are overloaded with thoughts about mistakes you've made? Do you wake up most mornings feeling depressed or anxious? Are your moods swinging- you have a short fuse- or are you shutting down? If yes, you could be suffering from depression & anxiety. The cause could be chemical-due to a family history or it could be situational-due to a loss or traumatic event. Traumatic events include becoming a caregiver to a family member with mental illness.
(301) 825-8805 View (301) 825-8805
Photo of Kaki Tipler, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaki Tipler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
If you are feeing overwhelmed, unsatisfied, worried, or burnt-out, I can help you. I have advanced training in treating anxiety, life transitions like changes in relationships and moves, and body image issues. My clients describe my style as warm, active, collaborative, and approachable. I will help you freely explore your thoughts and emotions, or learn what these are and how to express them. Through therapy, you will get to know yourself better and affect change in your life. I use a mix of elements from CBT, psychodynamic, and relational theories in my practice.
If you are feeing overwhelmed, unsatisfied, worried, or burnt-out, I can help you. I have advanced training in treating anxiety, life transitions like changes in relationships and moves, and body image issues. My clients describe my style as warm, active, collaborative, and approachable. I will help you freely explore your thoughts and emotions, or learn what these are and how to express them. Through therapy, you will get to know yourself better and affect change in your life. I use a mix of elements from CBT, psychodynamic, and relational theories in my practice.
(202) 902-6737 View (202) 902-6737
Photo of Dr. Leyla Mansur, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Leyla Mansur
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
College/university students and young adults experiencing big life changes: does it ever feel like despite having your "life together", you still feel stressed and overwhelmed? As far as your friends and family can tell, you're keeping it together. But, deep down you’re feeling burnt out or maybe even a little lost in terms of direction. We will work together to help you get back on track and learn to prioritize your well-being, develop insight, strengthen your relationships, and find greater life balance and fulfillment.
College/university students and young adults experiencing big life changes: does it ever feel like despite having your "life together", you still feel stressed and overwhelmed? As far as your friends and family can tell, you're keeping it together. But, deep down you’re feeling burnt out or maybe even a little lost in terms of direction. We will work together to help you get back on track and learn to prioritize your well-being, develop insight, strengthen your relationships, and find greater life balance and fulfillment.
(202) 831-2598 View (202) 831-2598
Photo of Lindsay Carroll, LPC, ATR, TFCBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Carroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, TFCBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
I work well with client’s looking to do meaningful self-development, understand theirselves as they elevate their self-worth, improving their communication skills and boundary setting abilities. Underlying our struggles are learned behaviors that we developed in response to situations we feel disempowered. In therapy, we will understand how your life story has shaped your current self, thoughts, and emotions. Using a person-centered and eclectic approach, aspire to help you regain your confidence and contentment in life.
I work well with client’s looking to do meaningful self-development, understand theirselves as they elevate their self-worth, improving their communication skills and boundary setting abilities. Underlying our struggles are learned behaviors that we developed in response to situations we feel disempowered. In therapy, we will understand how your life story has shaped your current self, thoughts, and emotions. Using a person-centered and eclectic approach, aspire to help you regain your confidence and contentment in life.
(202) 949-7751 View (202) 949-7751
Photo of Laureen E DiMattia, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laureen E DiMattia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! Thank you for considering me on your journey. I founded Seasons of Strength to provide compassionate, effective, evidence-based psychotherapy for adults, couples, and families from Washington DC. As an independent private practice clinician, I offer an individually tailored therapy experience designed to help you or your loved one reach your goals and achieve wellness. No matter how bad things might seem, no matter what challenges you are facing, I believe there is hope.
Welcome to my practice! Thank you for considering me on your journey. I founded Seasons of Strength to provide compassionate, effective, evidence-based psychotherapy for adults, couples, and families from Washington DC. As an independent private practice clinician, I offer an individually tailored therapy experience designed to help you or your loved one reach your goals and achieve wellness. No matter how bad things might seem, no matter what challenges you are facing, I believe there is hope.
(551) 231-1179 View (551) 231-1179
Photo of Risa Broudy - The Meltzer Center, PhD
The Meltzer Center
PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
The Meltzer Center provides a variety of low fee assessment and therapy mental health services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We are located at George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We offer evidence-based individual, family, group (see below for current group description), and couples therapy (CBT, etc.) to address a wide variety of psychological problems, relationship issues, and personal concerns.
The Meltzer Center provides a variety of low fee assessment and therapy mental health services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We are located at George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We offer evidence-based individual, family, group (see below for current group description), and couples therapy (CBT, etc.) to address a wide variety of psychological problems, relationship issues, and personal concerns.
(202) 618-5182 View (202) 618-5182
Photo of Steven Van Wagoner, PhD, CGP, FAGPA, Psychologist
Steven Van Wagoner
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, FAGPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
Typically individuals come to psychotherapy for relief of emotional and psychological pain, which may take the form of depression, anxiety, self-defeating behavior, and/or unfulfilled relationships or goals, to name a few. Many can identify some past trauma, or perhaps some mistreatment that seems somehow connected. For others the reasons are more elusive, like a general feeling of unhappiness, perhaps with oneself or with others.I strive to help you verbalize your thoughts and feelings about what happens between us in our emerging relationship as a way of understanding your relationships in general.
Typically individuals come to psychotherapy for relief of emotional and psychological pain, which may take the form of depression, anxiety, self-defeating behavior, and/or unfulfilled relationships or goals, to name a few. Many can identify some past trauma, or perhaps some mistreatment that seems somehow connected. For others the reasons are more elusive, like a general feeling of unhappiness, perhaps with oneself or with others.I strive to help you verbalize your thoughts and feelings about what happens between us in our emerging relationship as a way of understanding your relationships in general.
(202) 656-5989 View (202) 656-5989
Photo of Stacie Ain, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Stacie Ain
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
You notice patterns in your life that you want to better understand and change. These patterns show up in relationships, your own stress and struggles, and other areas in which you feel stuck. You want to be able to live your life in a way that feels true to who you are and how you want to show up in your relationships and in the world.
You notice patterns in your life that you want to better understand and change. These patterns show up in relationships, your own stress and struggles, and other areas in which you feel stuck. You want to be able to live your life in a way that feels true to who you are and how you want to show up in your relationships and in the world.
(202) 759-8368 View (202) 759-8368
Photo of Kashawna Watson, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kashawna Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
I aim to provide a safe place to listen and understand my clients completely in an environment that is focused on healing and supportive techniques. Clients often appreciate my eagerness to understand their situations and provide an environment that provides support in a relaxed atmosphere. Through my years of experience, I have worked with clients and families overcoming trauma, domestic violence and clients that are looking for assistance in managing their depression and anxiety.
I aim to provide a safe place to listen and understand my clients completely in an environment that is focused on healing and supportive techniques. Clients often appreciate my eagerness to understand their situations and provide an environment that provides support in a relaxed atmosphere. Through my years of experience, I have worked with clients and families overcoming trauma, domestic violence and clients that are looking for assistance in managing their depression and anxiety.
View
Photo of Nancy E. Moss, LICSW, LCSW, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy E. Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, LCSWC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
My role is to help you examine and work through your feelings in order to remove emotional weight and expand your comfort zone in a supportive and safe environment. Through our work you will develop a higher tolerance for stress, anxiety, shifts in mood, and unexpected challenges in life. I work with adults specializing in women's issues (pregnancy and postpartum), adjustment issues (parenthood; marriage; relocation); relationship issues; depression; and trauma. I provide a safe space for those from all backgrounds and identities. For more information about my practice, please visit my website: nancymosstherapy.com
My role is to help you examine and work through your feelings in order to remove emotional weight and expand your comfort zone in a supportive and safe environment. Through our work you will develop a higher tolerance for stress, anxiety, shifts in mood, and unexpected challenges in life. I work with adults specializing in women's issues (pregnancy and postpartum), adjustment issues (parenthood; marriage; relocation); relationship issues; depression; and trauma. I provide a safe space for those from all backgrounds and identities. For more information about my practice, please visit my website: nancymosstherapy.com
(202) 902-9417 View (202) 902-9417
Photo of Imran Riaz, PsyD, Psychologist
Imran Riaz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders. I work specifically with clients who have anxiety in social settings, anxiety around competency and performance, and obsessive compulsive tendencies.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders. I work specifically with clients who have anxiety in social settings, anxiety around competency and performance, and obsessive compulsive tendencies.
(202) 798-1365 View (202) 798-1365
Photo of Dawn Traut, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Traut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
Having a safe, nonjudgmental space, to be yourself, and to reflect, discuss, and learn about your reactions, decisions, and challenges can lead to improved well-being. My psychotherapy practice creates that space in a hopeful, compassionate atmosphere. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. Between your counseling sessions, you are encouraged to reflect and put new skills and insights into practice. I can weave traditional psychotherapy with mindfulness practices to relieve symptoms, promote self-care, make intentional decisions, and grow. Please email me and I'll be able to answer more quickly.
Having a safe, nonjudgmental space, to be yourself, and to reflect, discuss, and learn about your reactions, decisions, and challenges can lead to improved well-being. My psychotherapy practice creates that space in a hopeful, compassionate atmosphere. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. Between your counseling sessions, you are encouraged to reflect and put new skills and insights into practice. I can weave traditional psychotherapy with mindfulness practices to relieve symptoms, promote self-care, make intentional decisions, and grow. Please email me and I'll be able to answer more quickly.
(802) 499-2929 View (802) 499-2929
Photo of Erica Shawn Merson, PhD, Psychologist
Erica Shawn Merson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
I have a particular passion for working with university students and young-middle aged adults who are figuring out and navigating their next "chapter" of life. I aim to help individuals capitalize on their strengths and work with their limitations, change their responses to interpersonal problems, and help them form new and improved healthy relationships and ways of relating to their world that does not repeat previously unhealthy patterns. By bringing support, encouragement, humor, and a nonjudgmental perspective to our work together, I meet clients where they are. My goal is to make my clients feel heard, understood, and BETTER!
I have a particular passion for working with university students and young-middle aged adults who are figuring out and navigating their next "chapter" of life. I aim to help individuals capitalize on their strengths and work with their limitations, change their responses to interpersonal problems, and help them form new and improved healthy relationships and ways of relating to their world that does not repeat previously unhealthy patterns. By bringing support, encouragement, humor, and a nonjudgmental perspective to our work together, I meet clients where they are. My goal is to make my clients feel heard, understood, and BETTER!
(973) 828-8191 View (973) 828-8191
Photo of Kara Peters Veigas, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Peters Veigas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) is an approach to therapy that demands full and active collaboration between the patient and therapist. The patient is expected to bring a will to live as fulfilled and happy a life as possible. In using ISTDP I approach the patient's time as invaluable, and believe the wisest approach is to be up front with the patient immediately and continuously, to bring relief from suffering in the fastest and safest way possible. Therapy is typically conducted on a weekly basis following the initial evaluation until goals are achieved.
Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) is an approach to therapy that demands full and active collaboration between the patient and therapist. The patient is expected to bring a will to live as fulfilled and happy a life as possible. In using ISTDP I approach the patient's time as invaluable, and believe the wisest approach is to be up front with the patient immediately and continuously, to bring relief from suffering in the fastest and safest way possible. Therapy is typically conducted on a weekly basis following the initial evaluation until goals are achieved.
(240) 384-3588 View (240) 384-3588
Photo of Davin Maijala, PsyD, Psychologist
Davin Maijala
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm a psychologist with +20 years experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to help you explore and address the concerns that bring you to therapy. I take time to listen and get to know you to understand what you'd like to improve in your life. I individualize my approach by integrating techniques to best help you grow and find balance and happiness. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment. I am more directive and solution-focused when that approach might be more effective for you.
I'm a psychologist with +20 years experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to help you explore and address the concerns that bring you to therapy. I take time to listen and get to know you to understand what you'd like to improve in your life. I individualize my approach by integrating techniques to best help you grow and find balance and happiness. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment. I am more directive and solution-focused when that approach might be more effective for you.
(202) 817-2336 View (202) 817-2336
Photo of Maureen T. McGuire, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen T. McGuire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
You may feel anxious, depressed, angry and you "can't get rid of" or change your feelings or thoughts. You may be looking for ways to find some relief from your stress, emotional pain or unwanted behavior. Life's disappointments, big and small can lead to great worry, overeating, drinking too much, feeling unmotivated, not wanting to get out of bed, or being irritable with loved ones; this often leads to feeling guilt and shame. For everyone, life's challenges, fears, losses, traumas and oppression in all forms, can impact our internal thoughts and feelings about ourselves in a variety of ways, you are not alone.
You may feel anxious, depressed, angry and you "can't get rid of" or change your feelings or thoughts. You may be looking for ways to find some relief from your stress, emotional pain or unwanted behavior. Life's disappointments, big and small can lead to great worry, overeating, drinking too much, feeling unmotivated, not wanting to get out of bed, or being irritable with loved ones; this often leads to feeling guilt and shame. For everyone, life's challenges, fears, losses, traumas and oppression in all forms, can impact our internal thoughts and feelings about ourselves in a variety of ways, you are not alone.
(202) 930-8083 View (202) 930-8083
Photo of Suzanne Koopmans, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Koopmans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20052
I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed to practice in DC, Maryland and Virginia. I work with adults from all walks of life who are dealing with personal issues including depression, anxiety, relationships, identity, and COVID anxiety. I am passionate about the healing power of therapy. Therapy can resolve long standing psychological issues that take great courage to address. It can also be a great support when people deal with unexpected life changes, such as for example COVID, illness, loss of a loved one, becoming a parent, divorce, homesickness, adjusting to a new environment, starting a new career.
I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed to practice in DC, Maryland and Virginia. I work with adults from all walks of life who are dealing with personal issues including depression, anxiety, relationships, identity, and COVID anxiety. I am passionate about the healing power of therapy. Therapy can resolve long standing psychological issues that take great courage to address. It can also be a great support when people deal with unexpected life changes, such as for example COVID, illness, loss of a loved one, becoming a parent, divorce, homesickness, adjusting to a new environment, starting a new career.
(202) 952-7353 View (202) 952-7353
1

See more therapy options for 20052

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20052

70+

Average cost per session

$185

Therapists in 20052 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
96% Depression
85% Stress
79% Life Transitions
70% Grief
67% Women's Issues
62% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Aetna
33% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 20052 see their clients

61% Online Only
39% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20052?

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.