Therapists in Hamilton County, IA

Photo of Courtney Lynn Groat, t-LMHC, NCC, MS, Counselor
Courtney Lynn Groat
Counselor, t-LMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595
Trained in psychotherapy and QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback. I can treat a host of disorders using QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback and neurostimulation such as depression, anxiety, ptsd, OCD, ODD, Adhd, autism, and many more. I am working towards my BCN (Board Certified Neurofeedback) currently through the BCIA. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation show the brain how to behave, which quickly alleviates symptoms of mental health disorders. Both online and in person appointments available.
Trained in psychotherapy and QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback. I can treat a host of disorders using QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback and neurostimulation such as depression, anxiety, ptsd, OCD, ODD, Adhd, autism, and many more. I am working towards my BCN (Board Certified Neurofeedback) currently through the BCIA. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation show the brain how to behave, which quickly alleviates symptoms of mental health disorders. Both online and in person appointments available.
(515) 627-6862 View (515) 627-6862
Photo of Linsey Albright, tLMHC, MS Ed, Counselor
Linsey Albright
Counselor, tLMHC, MS Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster City, IA 50595
Welcome! I have 15+ years of experience in the social work field and recently decided to specialize in clinical mental health counseling. Life is hard, but I am here to collaborate with you to live your best life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem, addiction, parenting, or a compilation of these, I will meet you where you are in your struggles. I am currently accepting telehealth and in person sessions.
Welcome! I have 15+ years of experience in the social work field and recently decided to specialize in clinical mental health counseling. Life is hard, but I am here to collaborate with you to live your best life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem, addiction, parenting, or a compilation of these, I will meet you where you are in your struggles. I am currently accepting telehealth and in person sessions.
(515) 859-8869 View (515) 859-8869
Photo of Barbara Ann Kennedy, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Ann Kennedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595  (Online Only)
I have private practice dedicated to working with people to help them identify, clarify and resolve their issues. Adolescents through adults are treated. I also provide services to veterans and do divorce mediation. Most insurances are accepted. Appointments are available in 2-3 business days.
I have private practice dedicated to working with people to help them identify, clarify and resolve their issues. Adolescents through adults are treated. I also provide services to veterans and do divorce mediation. Most insurances are accepted. Appointments are available in 2-3 business days.
(515) 800-4201 View (515) 800-4201
Photo of Patrick Harnish, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, CYMHS, Counselor
Patrick Harnish
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, CYMHS
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Nationally Certified Counselor, I specialize in working with adolescents (10 and up), couples, adults, and the elderly. My diverse therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and many more. I offer a range of therapies to equip you with the tools necessary to navigate life's challenges.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Nationally Certified Counselor, I specialize in working with adolescents (10 and up), couples, adults, and the elderly. My diverse therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and many more. I offer a range of therapies to equip you with the tools necessary to navigate life's challenges.
(641) 425-7100 View (641) 425-7100
Photo of Nesha Benton, MSEd, tLMHC, Counselor
Nesha Benton
Counselor, MSEd, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Webster City, IA 50595  (Online Only)
Hi! Happy to see you here! Reaching out for help with your mental health can be a hard thing to do. I'm proud of you for making it this far and you're in the right place. When facing mental health struggles, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Therapy, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are.
Hi! Happy to see you here! Reaching out for help with your mental health can be a hard thing to do. I'm proud of you for making it this far and you're in the right place. When facing mental health struggles, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Therapy, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Cristina Cousins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristina Cousins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster City, IA 50595
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients dealing with anxiety or depression rooted in perfectionism, challenging family dynamics, work/life imbalance, OCD, coping with neurodivergence in a neurotypical world, and religious trauma. I enjoy working with women and non-binary individuals who feel uncomfortable with the cultural norms forced upon them. I am a neurodivergent (ND) friendly therapist, and have experience supporting my clients to identify and work with their ND characteristics - including those who believe they may have undiagnosed ADHD or Autism. I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
I work with clients dealing with anxiety or depression rooted in perfectionism, challenging family dynamics, work/life imbalance, OCD, coping with neurodivergence in a neurotypical world, and religious trauma. I enjoy working with women and non-binary individuals who feel uncomfortable with the cultural norms forced upon them. I am a neurodivergent (ND) friendly therapist, and have experience supporting my clients to identify and work with their ND characteristics - including those who believe they may have undiagnosed ADHD or Autism. I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
(314) 207-2532 View (314) 207-2532

Online Therapists

Photo of Rachael Kunzler, LMSW, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachael Kunzler
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma or stress? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Have you recently experienced a significant life change or loss? Do you need a boost to your self-esteem? Are you getting in your own way, trying hard and getting nowhere? Have you had a recent heartbreak and want to work on your self-esteem and effective dating skills? Or are you considering participating in open relationships? Are you ready to make some effective changes and move on with your life? Are you interested in mindfulness-based therapy to strengthen your inner self? If so, you do not have to go it alone.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma or stress? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Have you recently experienced a significant life change or loss? Do you need a boost to your self-esteem? Are you getting in your own way, trying hard and getting nowhere? Have you had a recent heartbreak and want to work on your self-esteem and effective dating skills? Or are you considering participating in open relationships? Are you ready to make some effective changes and move on with your life? Are you interested in mindfulness-based therapy to strengthen your inner self? If so, you do not have to go it alone.
(515) 834-4138 View (515) 834-4138
Photo of Mary Mclaggan, LMHC, Counselor
Mary Mclaggan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
My Name Is Jane Mclaggan. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, with 20 years of professional experience. As well I am an LMHC in Iowa. I have experience in helping clients with ADHD, stress and anxiety, as well as depression, and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step in seeking a happier and more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
My Name Is Jane Mclaggan. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, with 20 years of professional experience. As well I am an LMHC in Iowa. I have experience in helping clients with ADHD, stress and anxiety, as well as depression, and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step in seeking a happier and more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(319) 820-4103 View (319) 820-4103
Photo of Erin Knauer, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Knauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Going to therapy is a challenging decision. I get it, vulnerability sucks. However, if you’ve come to the point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and can’t quite get on the right track then therapy could be what you need. As a therapist, I am direct yet supportive and empathetic. I strive to take a collaborative and compassionate approach with my clients.
Going to therapy is a challenging decision. I get it, vulnerability sucks. However, if you’ve come to the point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and can’t quite get on the right track then therapy could be what you need. As a therapist, I am direct yet supportive and empathetic. I strive to take a collaborative and compassionate approach with my clients.
(515) 497-2225 View (515) 497-2225
Photo of Lisa Witter, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Lisa Witter
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist and licensed counselor in Ames, IA. I offer in-person and virtual sessions for women ages 18+. I specialize in helping you build confidence, achieve personal goals and be less stressed. Enjoy better relationships and overall vitality. Learn effective strategies for a strong inner guidance. Feel peaceful, creative and connected through challenges. I also offer parent coaching for families with children ages 2-25. Contact me, or sign up on my website, for your free initial consultation.
I am a therapist and licensed counselor in Ames, IA. I offer in-person and virtual sessions for women ages 18+. I specialize in helping you build confidence, achieve personal goals and be less stressed. Enjoy better relationships and overall vitality. Learn effective strategies for a strong inner guidance. Feel peaceful, creative and connected through challenges. I also offer parent coaching for families with children ages 2-25. Contact me, or sign up on my website, for your free initial consultation.
(515) 827-2593 View (515) 827-2593
Photo of Quinn Bullis, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Quinn Bullis
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Everyone experiences difficulties at some point in their lives. In those moments, reaching out for help can be one of the hardest things to do. It's my goal to make the counseling process as safe and welcoming as possible to help you reach your goals. I place emphasis on creating an environment that incorporates empathy, genuineness, understanding, and patience to develop an individualized form of therapy for each client.
Everyone experiences difficulties at some point in their lives. In those moments, reaching out for help can be one of the hardest things to do. It's my goal to make the counseling process as safe and welcoming as possible to help you reach your goals. I place emphasis on creating an environment that incorporates empathy, genuineness, understanding, and patience to develop an individualized form of therapy for each client.
(515) 373-4693 View (515) 373-4693
Photo of Michele Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315  (Online Only)
I'm Michele and I am excited you are taking steps to feel better about yourself and are interested to learn more about me. I'm a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri, and a qualified mental health professional. I am a certified clinical tele-mental health provider, a certified clinical trauma professional, and a certified grief informed professional. I've been a therapist for more than 25 years and I absolutely love what I do. I help young people learn to live authentically in spite of experiencing trauma in their past and help them express their true inner self. I counsel adult children who care for their aging parents to co
I'm Michele and I am excited you are taking steps to feel better about yourself and are interested to learn more about me. I'm a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri, and a qualified mental health professional. I am a certified clinical tele-mental health provider, a certified clinical trauma professional, and a certified grief informed professional. I've been a therapist for more than 25 years and I absolutely love what I do. I help young people learn to live authentically in spite of experiencing trauma in their past and help them express their true inner self. I counsel adult children who care for their aging parents to co
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Lindsay Finnegan, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Finnegan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IA 50702  (Online Only)
I provide therapy services to individuals, couples, and families. I use a cognitive-behavioral approach to address presenting problems. This technique is beneficial in helping to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, relationship issues, etc. as thoughts and feelings lead to behaviors or actions. Treatment services are also provided utilizing trauma informed care and EMDR to help with symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. I have been in private practice for 9 years now. I love seeing the positive changes that my clients are making in their lives!
I provide therapy services to individuals, couples, and families. I use a cognitive-behavioral approach to address presenting problems. This technique is beneficial in helping to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, relationship issues, etc. as thoughts and feelings lead to behaviors or actions. Treatment services are also provided utilizing trauma informed care and EMDR to help with symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. I have been in private practice for 9 years now. I love seeing the positive changes that my clients are making in their lives!
(712) 380-1513 View (712) 380-1513
Photo of Rebekah Cheevers, MS, CADC, t-LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Rebekah Cheevers
Counselor, MS, CADC, t-LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I have been working within the social service field for over 12 years. My approach is simple and straightforward. The foundation of my clinical work is person-centered which aims to establish and build a relationship to foster safety and set goals you hope to achieve. Genuineness and empathy are incredibly important in the therapeutic relationship. I believe my knowledge and experience will help assist you to find the solutions you need to feel better and more settled in your unique circumstances. You are brave to take the first step in finding a therapist, and I'm excited to work with you as you start your journey.
I have been working within the social service field for over 12 years. My approach is simple and straightforward. The foundation of my clinical work is person-centered which aims to establish and build a relationship to foster safety and set goals you hope to achieve. Genuineness and empathy are incredibly important in the therapeutic relationship. I believe my knowledge and experience will help assist you to find the solutions you need to feel better and more settled in your unique circumstances. You are brave to take the first step in finding a therapist, and I'm excited to work with you as you start your journey.
(515) 220-7111 View (515) 220-7111
Photo of Bryce Dos Anjos, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Bryce Dos Anjos
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
My hope is to help you clarify how you want to think and feel about yourself and life, identify obstacles that stand in your way of this, and learn real ways to make your goals a reality. I use a strength-based approach that trusts in your inner resources and in our innate ability as humans to heal. I believe that different parts of our identity impact our experience in the world and in the therapy room, and I strive to make our time a comfortable space for exploring this and how the differences between us might impact our work.
My hope is to help you clarify how you want to think and feel about yourself and life, identify obstacles that stand in your way of this, and learn real ways to make your goals a reality. I use a strength-based approach that trusts in your inner resources and in our innate ability as humans to heal. I believe that different parts of our identity impact our experience in the world and in the therapy room, and I strive to make our time a comfortable space for exploring this and how the differences between us might impact our work.
(515) 420-1685 View (515) 420-1685
Photo of Emily Cave, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Cave
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Whether your little one(s) is in the NICU for 1 day or hundreds of days, it is often an extremely tough and unexpected experience, filled with an abundance of grief and uncertainty. It can feel difficult to explain the ins/outs of your family’s NICU stay to someone who is unfamiliar with the NICU world. With my knowledge of the NICU, you’ll be able to discuss your experiences and be met with more of an understanding, so we can focus on healing rather than spending your valuable time and energy defining all of the NICU terminology.
Whether your little one(s) is in the NICU for 1 day or hundreds of days, it is often an extremely tough and unexpected experience, filled with an abundance of grief and uncertainty. It can feel difficult to explain the ins/outs of your family’s NICU stay to someone who is unfamiliar with the NICU world. With my knowledge of the NICU, you’ll be able to discuss your experiences and be met with more of an understanding, so we can focus on healing rather than spending your valuable time and energy defining all of the NICU terminology.
(515) 726-4536 View (515) 726-4536
Photo of Amanda Smith, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients with Immediate Openings. The mind naturally wants to go towards wellness, sometimes we just need a little help in the right direction. Therapy is your unique journey towards wellness. Working in a partnership on your journey helps you know that you are in charge of your life, your healing, and your growth helps you blossom into the person you were meant to be. Throughout our time together you will be supported and validated, but also challenged and helped to see different views and ideas on ideas and situations to help you make the best decisions for you.
Accepting New Clients with Immediate Openings. The mind naturally wants to go towards wellness, sometimes we just need a little help in the right direction. Therapy is your unique journey towards wellness. Working in a partnership on your journey helps you know that you are in charge of your life, your healing, and your growth helps you blossom into the person you were meant to be. Throughout our time together you will be supported and validated, but also challenged and helped to see different views and ideas on ideas and situations to help you make the best decisions for you.
(515) 854-3966 View (515) 854-3966
Photo of Sarah Gallagher, LISW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atkins, IA 52206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are new to therapy or you are looking to return to a safe space; it is my intention to provide a supportive environment to help you feel better. I use a combination of evidence based interventions that are tailored to your unique needs. My practice has roots from humanistic and integrative frameworks and I am trained in Polyvagal EMDR and have specialized training in EMDR for perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders through The Touchstone Institute. I have certificates in ACT, DBT and CBT modalities and am informed in Internal Family Systems. I will collaborate with you to select the most effective modality.
Whether you are new to therapy or you are looking to return to a safe space; it is my intention to provide a supportive environment to help you feel better. I use a combination of evidence based interventions that are tailored to your unique needs. My practice has roots from humanistic and integrative frameworks and I am trained in Polyvagal EMDR and have specialized training in EMDR for perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders through The Touchstone Institute. I have certificates in ACT, DBT and CBT modalities and am informed in Internal Family Systems. I will collaborate with you to select the most effective modality.
(319) 984-4149 View (319) 984-4149
Photo of Julia Tiedeman, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Tiedeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
We all struggle at times with situations that affect our ability to experience contentment and feel at peace with ourselves and in our relationships. Solving problems can seem overwhelming and when friends and family aren't enough, you may want an objective perspective. I believe in each person's potential to make positive changes that lead to a more satisfying life. Let me assist you on your journey. I primarily serve individuals, couples, and teens. Whether you are looking for a place to reflect or a place to work together on an action plan for change, let's find your path together.
We all struggle at times with situations that affect our ability to experience contentment and feel at peace with ourselves and in our relationships. Solving problems can seem overwhelming and when friends and family aren't enough, you may want an objective perspective. I believe in each person's potential to make positive changes that lead to a more satisfying life. Let me assist you on your journey. I primarily serve individuals, couples, and teens. Whether you are looking for a place to reflect or a place to work together on an action plan for change, let's find your path together.
(515) 705-6032 View (515) 705-6032
Photo of Diamond Ruth, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diamond Ruth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Hello! My name is Diamond Ruth (she/her) and I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. It is unique and has helped shape and influence how you perceive and respond to the world around you, and sometimes everything isn't always positive. Understanding how past and potential traumas can influence the present, as well as help give you the power to promote positive change is the goal. I believe in the dignity, power, and potential of human beings and make it my personal and professional mission to help clients recognize this power within themselves.
Hello! My name is Diamond Ruth (she/her) and I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. It is unique and has helped shape and influence how you perceive and respond to the world around you, and sometimes everything isn't always positive. Understanding how past and potential traumas can influence the present, as well as help give you the power to promote positive change is the goal. I believe in the dignity, power, and potential of human beings and make it my personal and professional mission to help clients recognize this power within themselves.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hamilton County, IA

< 10

Therapists in Hamilton County, IA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% Relationship Issues
83% Stress
67% Grief
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Anger Management

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Wellmark BCBS

How Therapists in Hamilton County, IA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hamilton County?

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.