Therapists in Southlake, TX

Photo of Charla Janecka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Charla Janecka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA MFT, LPC, EMDRt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
I work with clients to help heal by re-processing past pain & trauma by fusing the clinical, practical and spiritual to heal the mind, body, soul & spirit. Every person is unique, so we find the modality that works best for you. I am Trauma trained in EMDR, practice SRI and somatic experience. I see minors, married, partners, and adults in crisis. I help clients discover and develop in identity, restore their voice and renew purpose as they heal. I believe that when we do by intention what we have been doing by intuition, acceleration occurs. I am faith based, but work with secular clients as well.
I work with clients to help heal by re-processing past pain & trauma by fusing the clinical, practical and spiritual to heal the mind, body, soul & spirit. Every person is unique, so we find the modality that works best for you. I am Trauma trained in EMDR, practice SRI and somatic experience. I see minors, married, partners, and adults in crisis. I help clients discover and develop in identity, restore their voice and renew purpose as they heal. I believe that when we do by intention what we have been doing by intuition, acceleration occurs. I am faith based, but work with secular clients as well.
(817) 904-3073 View (817) 904-3073
Photo of Lauren Waltz, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Southlake, TX
Lauren Waltz
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I specialize in grief, trauma, and loss to help you move forward into a successful future. I enjoy helping my clients find peace in the present, healing from the past, and empowerment for the future. Helping bridge the gap between your current reality and your most-fulfilled life, the goal of treatment is to bring clarity, improve understanding and communication skills, and foster an environment that brings relief to the levels of stress and anxiety in your life. While I work with several populations and ages, I am specializing in later childhood, adolescent, and young adult therapy. I also enjoy working with middle-aged women too!
I specialize in grief, trauma, and loss to help you move forward into a successful future. I enjoy helping my clients find peace in the present, healing from the past, and empowerment for the future. Helping bridge the gap between your current reality and your most-fulfilled life, the goal of treatment is to bring clarity, improve understanding and communication skills, and foster an environment that brings relief to the levels of stress and anxiety in your life. While I work with several populations and ages, I am specializing in later childhood, adolescent, and young adult therapy. I also enjoy working with middle-aged women too!
(817) 396-7480 View (817) 396-7480
Photo of Jackie Farmer Keish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southlake, TX
Jackie Farmer Keish
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT, BCIA-EE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
As a marriage and family therapist, a licensed professional counselor, and a neurofeedback clinician, I provide care for adults, couples, families,& children, in North Tarrant County. Serving the Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, Colleyville, Trophy Club, Irving,and surrounding communities, I focus on identifying personal strengths, and solutions that are often hidden within. Additionally, I utilize Neurofeedback, Interactive Metronome, Hypnotherapy, E.M.D.R., cognitive behavorial, solution focused and R.E.B.,T. therapies in assisting clients with attention, attachment, anxiety, depression, trauma, P.T.S.D., phobias and other issues. Please read about neurofeedback at these sites: www.eeginfo and eegspectrum.com, www.neurofeedbackoftexas.com
As a marriage and family therapist, a licensed professional counselor, and a neurofeedback clinician, I provide care for adults, couples, families,& children, in North Tarrant County. Serving the Southlake, Keller, Grapevine, Colleyville, Trophy Club, Irving,and surrounding communities, I focus on identifying personal strengths, and solutions that are often hidden within. Additionally, I utilize Neurofeedback, Interactive Metronome, Hypnotherapy, E.M.D.R., cognitive behavorial, solution focused and R.E.B.,T. therapies in assisting clients with attention, attachment, anxiety, depression, trauma, P.T.S.D., phobias and other issues. Please read about neurofeedback at these sites: www.eeginfo and eegspectrum.com, www.neurofeedbackoftexas.com
(817) 532-5227 View (817) 532-5227
Photo of Dr. Messina & Associates, Psychologist in Southlake, TX
Dr. Messina & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
Dr. Messina & Associates provides cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychiatry and telepsychiatry services, and psychological testing to children, adolescents, and adults in Flower Mound and Southlake, TX.
Dr. Messina & Associates provides cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychiatry and telepsychiatry services, and psychological testing to children, adolescents, and adults in Flower Mound and Southlake, TX.
(817) 677-0449 View (817) 677-0449
Photo of Reagan Vermillion, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Reagan Vermillion
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Reagan uses a caring and direct approach to help you meet your goals. She provides a safe judgment-free space where you can explore the thoughts and processes behind your troubles. Once a safe,trusting relationship is established, you can trust that Reagan will be directive and encourage you towards your goals.
Reagan uses a caring and direct approach to help you meet your goals. She provides a safe judgment-free space where you can explore the thoughts and processes behind your troubles. Once a safe,trusting relationship is established, you can trust that Reagan will be directive and encourage you towards your goals.
(682) 452-1362 View (682) 452-1362
Photo of Zane Dodd, Psychologist in Southlake, TX
Zane Dodd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Many people are seeking psychotherapy for help with emotional pain, difficult life circumstances, problematic current relationships or relationship patterns, and identity struggles. For others, it's not the presence of something to be alleviated, but rather the search for something missing that brings them to this work. The goal of our work together is to provide relief from your suffering and cultivate a more enriching life with a greater sense of freedom in how you choose to live it.
Many people are seeking psychotherapy for help with emotional pain, difficult life circumstances, problematic current relationships or relationship patterns, and identity struggles. For others, it's not the presence of something to be alleviated, but rather the search for something missing that brings them to this work. The goal of our work together is to provide relief from your suffering and cultivate a more enriching life with a greater sense of freedom in how you choose to live it.
(817) 776-8004 View (817) 776-8004
Photo of Kimberly Lavender Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southlake, TX
Kimberly Lavender Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
Did you suffer abuse or neglect as a child? Are you currently suffering from depression or anxiety? Do you have PTSD from trauma? Would you like to function better at work, school, or social activities? Would you like to feel more at ease in your own skin and develop the confidence to be proud of who you are?
Did you suffer abuse or neglect as a child? Are you currently suffering from depression or anxiety? Do you have PTSD from trauma? Would you like to function better at work, school, or social activities? Would you like to feel more at ease in your own skin and develop the confidence to be proud of who you are?
(817) 813-1891 View (817) 813-1891
Photo of Hopeful Hearts Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Hopeful Hearts Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Finding a therapist that fits you and your needs is hard to find. That is why I aim to create a compassionate, collaborative, and trusting atmosphere. My goal is to explore your feelings, treat root issues, and discover your strengths to apply them toward healing and growth. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, or simply need help decreasing stress, you do not have to do it alone. I would love to help you resolve your problems, enhance your life, and lead you toward the peace, joy, and hope that God has planned for you.
Finding a therapist that fits you and your needs is hard to find. That is why I aim to create a compassionate, collaborative, and trusting atmosphere. My goal is to explore your feelings, treat root issues, and discover your strengths to apply them toward healing and growth. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, or simply need help decreasing stress, you do not have to do it alone. I would love to help you resolve your problems, enhance your life, and lead you toward the peace, joy, and hope that God has planned for you.
(682) 204-3294 View (682) 204-3294
Photo of April Haley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southlake, TX
April Haley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
It takes courage to pursue this step and release your innermost thoughts and struggles. I believe in building a trusting relationship with my clients and providing a safe space with no judgment, so you will feel open to sharing your emotions and experiences. I strive to empower clients so you obtain the tools and resources needed to make positive changes in your life. Since all individuals and families are unique, I use various therapeutic modalities and a holistic approach to support you throughout your journey of growth and healing.
It takes courage to pursue this step and release your innermost thoughts and struggles. I believe in building a trusting relationship with my clients and providing a safe space with no judgment, so you will feel open to sharing your emotions and experiences. I strive to empower clients so you obtain the tools and resources needed to make positive changes in your life. Since all individuals and families are unique, I use various therapeutic modalities and a holistic approach to support you throughout your journey of growth and healing.
(817) 662-0690 View (817) 662-0690
Photo of Sara Shelton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Southlake, TX
Sara Shelton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MA,, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
I enjoy working with all ages using a family approach to therapy. I love supporting couples with marriages in crisis and helping both partners find hope and healing. I specialize in working with neurodiverse couples, helping them overcome challenges and create their own "normal." A master’s degree in Special Education and Marriage and Family therapy gives me a unique skill set to help individuals, couples, and families who need someone to help them through their various life challenges. I am an LMFT Associate supervised by Beth Ann Contreras, MMFT, LMFT-S, LPC-S.
I enjoy working with all ages using a family approach to therapy. I love supporting couples with marriages in crisis and helping both partners find hope and healing. I specialize in working with neurodiverse couples, helping them overcome challenges and create their own "normal." A master’s degree in Special Education and Marriage and Family therapy gives me a unique skill set to help individuals, couples, and families who need someone to help them through their various life challenges. I am an LMFT Associate supervised by Beth Ann Contreras, MMFT, LMFT-S, LPC-S.
(817) 618-7124 View (817) 618-7124
Photo of Lillian Wendt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Lillian Wendt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes that every person deserves to find joy in their authentic selves. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults in all life stages. I have experience working with trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I use a holistic approach using evidenced-based treatment strategies like CBT, DBT, and person-centered therapy. I have enjoyed working with diverse populations throughout my career. Life is hard and I am ready to sit with you in the muck of life as we work together to help you learn skills and gain confidence so you can live into your most authentic life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes that every person deserves to find joy in their authentic selves. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults in all life stages. I have experience working with trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I use a holistic approach using evidenced-based treatment strategies like CBT, DBT, and person-centered therapy. I have enjoyed working with diverse populations throughout my career. Life is hard and I am ready to sit with you in the muck of life as we work together to help you learn skills and gain confidence so you can live into your most authentic life.
(817) 670-4607 View (817) 670-4607
Photo of Cherilyn Schutze, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Cherilyn Schutze
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCATP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
Your most crucial relationship is the one you have with yourself. How you speak to yourself matters. Do you treat yourself as kindly as you do others? Many of us struggle with an internal dialogue that's overly critical, judgmental, and unforgiving. Sound familiar? Maybe you find yourself being tougher on yourself than you would ever be on others; setting impossible standards that leave you feeling constantly disappointed; people pleasing to avoid conflict; feeling unfulfilled and drained; seeking answers through worry and attempts at control. If this resonates with you, know you are not alone.
Your most crucial relationship is the one you have with yourself. How you speak to yourself matters. Do you treat yourself as kindly as you do others? Many of us struggle with an internal dialogue that's overly critical, judgmental, and unforgiving. Sound familiar? Maybe you find yourself being tougher on yourself than you would ever be on others; setting impossible standards that leave you feeling constantly disappointed; people pleasing to avoid conflict; feeling unfulfilled and drained; seeking answers through worry and attempts at control. If this resonates with you, know you are not alone.
(682) 228-2954 View (682) 228-2954
Photo of Len (Coach) Shelby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Len (Coach) Shelby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
Len works with adults, children, and teens who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues. As a Counselor and Coach, he has experience working with children and adolescents with relationship issues both in the home and at school. Coach also works with men and women of all ages helping them navigate major life transitions, setbacks and issues that challenge us personally and as a family. Len is a trained Symbis Premarital Counselor and collaborates with churches who desire a faith-based, solution-focused approach to marital and premarital counseling.
Len works with adults, children, and teens who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues. As a Counselor and Coach, he has experience working with children and adolescents with relationship issues both in the home and at school. Coach also works with men and women of all ages helping them navigate major life transitions, setbacks and issues that challenge us personally and as a family. Len is a trained Symbis Premarital Counselor and collaborates with churches who desire a faith-based, solution-focused approach to marital and premarital counseling.
(817) 697-7931 View (817) 697-7931
Photo of Katie Kadane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Katie Kadane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Do you ever find yourself feeling like you are in a crowded room and no one can hear you? Do you sometimes feel hopeless? The counseling process can provide a safe place, free from judgment and free from fear offering the possibility of new beginnings. Whether you are struggling with addiction or hit a slight bump in the road, all hope is not lost. You are not alone. I am here to help you navigate life's sometimes turbulent waters.
Do you ever find yourself feeling like you are in a crowded room and no one can hear you? Do you sometimes feel hopeless? The counseling process can provide a safe place, free from judgment and free from fear offering the possibility of new beginnings. Whether you are struggling with addiction or hit a slight bump in the road, all hope is not lost. You are not alone. I am here to help you navigate life's sometimes turbulent waters.
(817) 587-4431 View (817) 587-4431
Photo of DJ Cheatham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
DJ Cheatham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSOTP, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I specialize in treating youth, young adults, and families experiencing maladaptive behaviors, problems with conduct, issues with self-esteem, and conflict within the family system. My practice with youth is developmentally informed and utilizes techniques pulled from child centered protocol and training. I have experience working with individuals learning how to better manage or cope with depression, anxiety, and anger as well as those with a history of antisocial and sexual offending behavior or other personality disorders.
I specialize in treating youth, young adults, and families experiencing maladaptive behaviors, problems with conduct, issues with self-esteem, and conflict within the family system. My practice with youth is developmentally informed and utilizes techniques pulled from child centered protocol and training. I have experience working with individuals learning how to better manage or cope with depression, anxiety, and anger as well as those with a history of antisocial and sexual offending behavior or other personality disorders.
(817) 769-3647 View (817) 769-3647
Photo of Deana Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Deana Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
As long as we have breath, we have hope. Whether you've experienced loss, trauma, depression or any adversity, we will journey together to create emotional health and purpose. Counseling is a partnership of your expertise and my experience. Together we can create strategies for a positive self-esteem and healthy relationships.
As long as we have breath, we have hope. Whether you've experienced loss, trauma, depression or any adversity, we will journey together to create emotional health and purpose. Counseling is a partnership of your expertise and my experience. Together we can create strategies for a positive self-esteem and healthy relationships.
(817) 813-1703 View (817) 813-1703
Photo of Kate Casey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Kate Casey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, JD
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
My warm personality and active listening style contribute to the calm, supportive, and respectful environment I create for my clients. I join with each client to explore, find meaning, and facilitate lasting change in the face of life's challenges and opportunities. I work collaboratively with my clients to develop an individualized and holistic approach to wellness. The aim of this approach is to help clients experience a sense of relief and develop strategies for lasting change and enduring success. I believe that education and encouragement empower clients to cope with life's challenges, and move forward with confidence.
My warm personality and active listening style contribute to the calm, supportive, and respectful environment I create for my clients. I join with each client to explore, find meaning, and facilitate lasting change in the face of life's challenges and opportunities. I work collaboratively with my clients to develop an individualized and holistic approach to wellness. The aim of this approach is to help clients experience a sense of relief and develop strategies for lasting change and enduring success. I believe that education and encouragement empower clients to cope with life's challenges, and move forward with confidence.
(817) 385-9041 View (817) 385-9041
Photo of Jeff Napier, Psychologist in Southlake, TX
Jeff Napier
Psychologist, PsyD, APIT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing consultation with individual clients and other mental health professionals. My professional experience includes service in the United States Navy as a Staff Psychologist and private practice in the Dallas area since 2004. My specialty areas include individual psychotherapy with adults and psychological evaluations utilizing a variety of personality assessment instruments. I also specialize in psychotherapy with adults to support recovery from sexual addiction.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing consultation with individual clients and other mental health professionals. My professional experience includes service in the United States Navy as a Staff Psychologist and private practice in the Dallas area since 2004. My specialty areas include individual psychotherapy with adults and psychological evaluations utilizing a variety of personality assessment instruments. I also specialize in psychotherapy with adults to support recovery from sexual addiction.
(214) 390-9558 View (214) 390-9558
Photo of Helena C Roberson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Helena C Roberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Helena is a compassionate and perceptive listener, offering you a healing space with focus on solutions. Gifted in establishing rapport quickly, Helena’s approach focuses on empathetic guidance, identification of client strengths, and replacing destructive patterns. Helena specializes in treating adults struggling with life transitions associated with work, stress, relationships ,anxiety, and depression. With previous experience as a School Counselor and Teacher, Helena also has a passion for working with young adults 18 and up with identity issues, anger and low self-esteem.
Helena is a compassionate and perceptive listener, offering you a healing space with focus on solutions. Gifted in establishing rapport quickly, Helena’s approach focuses on empathetic guidance, identification of client strengths, and replacing destructive patterns. Helena specializes in treating adults struggling with life transitions associated with work, stress, relationships ,anxiety, and depression. With previous experience as a School Counselor and Teacher, Helena also has a passion for working with young adults 18 and up with identity issues, anger and low self-esteem.
(817) 601-1044 View (817) 601-1044
Photo of Mind Body Optimization, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southlake, TX
Mind Body Optimization
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
Mind Body Optimization is a mental health practice that takes both your mind and body into the equation of optimizing your patient experience. We have created a unique experience for you by offering traditional therapy services, psychiatric evaluations & medication management, and thyroid & hormone testing all under one roof! Sometimes our struggle is in the mind, sometimes it is related to our brain/gut chemicals, and sometimes there are biological factors. If you are reading this, you have probably suffered in silence for too long. Our team is here to help correctly identify the core of your struggle, and walk with you through it.
Mind Body Optimization is a mental health practice that takes both your mind and body into the equation of optimizing your patient experience. We have created a unique experience for you by offering traditional therapy services, psychiatric evaluations & medication management, and thyroid & hormone testing all under one roof! Sometimes our struggle is in the mind, sometimes it is related to our brain/gut chemicals, and sometimes there are biological factors. If you are reading this, you have probably suffered in silence for too long. Our team is here to help correctly identify the core of your struggle, and walk with you through it.
(817) 790-9947 View (817) 790-9947

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Southlake, TX

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Southlake, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills
69% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Southlake, TX see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Southlake?

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.