Therapists in McGregor, IA

Photo of Lisa Broussard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW
Lisa Broussard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW
McGregor, IA 52157
Life can bring stress, change, loss, uncertainty, and times when you know something needs to shift but aren’t sure where to start. This is a space to slow down, be heard, and gain perspective. Sessions focus on exploring what matters most to you, building on your strengths, and developing tools to create steady, lasting change that feels realistic and sustainable in daily life.
Life can bring stress, change, loss, uncertainty, and times when you know something needs to shift but aren’t sure where to start. This is a space to slow down, be heard, and gain perspective. Sessions focus on exploring what matters most to you, building on your strengths, and developing tools to create steady, lasting change that feels realistic and sustainable in daily life.
(563) 562-7188 View (563) 562-7188

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Pam Barela, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Pam Barela
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy with me is a place to exhale and be fully yourself. I support individuals, couples, and families navigating trauma, intimacy, identity, and faith transitions. My focus is helping couples reconnect, blended families build roots, and individuals heal patterns that no longer serve them. Together, we’ll create clarity, confidence, and a grounded path forward—without judgment or pressure, just real connection and growth.
Therapy with me is a place to exhale and be fully yourself. I support individuals, couples, and families navigating trauma, intimacy, identity, and faith transitions. My focus is helping couples reconnect, blended families build roots, and individuals heal patterns that no longer serve them. Together, we’ll create clarity, confidence, and a grounded path forward—without judgment or pressure, just real connection and growth.
(503) 468-6964 View (503) 468-6964
Photo of Abbie Placke, Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Abbie Placke
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Abbie facilitates a supportive and safe environment in session that allows individuals to embrace their authentic selves. When working with Abbie, you will be able to collaborate in order to set goals for yourself or your child that will allow them to bloom into the best version of themselves. She utilizes a variety of techniques in therapy, including cognitive-behavioral and play therapy approaches, to best fit the needs of her clients. Abbie is passionate about helping individuals and looks forward to meeting with you and supporting your or your child's mental health goals!
Abbie facilitates a supportive and safe environment in session that allows individuals to embrace their authentic selves. When working with Abbie, you will be able to collaborate in order to set goals for yourself or your child that will allow them to bloom into the best version of themselves. She utilizes a variety of techniques in therapy, including cognitive-behavioral and play therapy approaches, to best fit the needs of her clients. Abbie is passionate about helping individuals and looks forward to meeting with you and supporting your or your child's mental health goals!
(563) 748-5918 View (563) 748-5918
Photo of Jamie Wingert, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Jamie Wingert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Elkader, IA 52043
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel that something just seems off, that you are not reaching your full potential, or that your thoughts and mindset are getting in your way? Would you consider yourself to have anxiety, thoughts that sabotage your growth, or difficulty moving past events or situations? I want to help you shift from being stuck to growing into your full potential. We all have it within us, sometimes we just need some support unraveling it all and putting it back together. I will provide a safe, supportive, relaxed, and client focused environment to do just that.
Do you feel that something just seems off, that you are not reaching your full potential, or that your thoughts and mindset are getting in your way? Would you consider yourself to have anxiety, thoughts that sabotage your growth, or difficulty moving past events or situations? I want to help you shift from being stuck to growing into your full potential. We all have it within us, sometimes we just need some support unraveling it all and putting it back together. I will provide a safe, supportive, relaxed, and client focused environment to do just that.
(319) 220-5801 View (319) 220-5801
Photo of Brooke Martin, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Brooke Martin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Serves Area
Unresolved trauma often leaves behind persistent emotional burden. Feelings of detachment or over dependence, heightened emotional sensitivity or shutdown, lack of sense of self and life direction, difficulty building or being in healthy relationships, or cycles of problematic behavior that we cannot seem to break can be just some of manifestations of trauma. Unresolved emotional trauma takes away from our happiness and ability to live and love in the way we desire.
Unresolved trauma often leaves behind persistent emotional burden. Feelings of detachment or over dependence, heightened emotional sensitivity or shutdown, lack of sense of self and life direction, difficulty building or being in healthy relationships, or cycles of problematic behavior that we cannot seem to break can be just some of manifestations of trauma. Unresolved emotional trauma takes away from our happiness and ability to live and love in the way we desire.
(563) 231-7931 View (563) 231-7931
Photo of Manon C. Bushman, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Manon C. Bushman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hey there! Life can leave us with thoughts, feelings, and emotions that are sometimes difficult to navigate on our own. Everyone deserves a safe space to honestly share their burdens and celebrate their successes! I believe change is inevitable when we show up authentically and strive to gain insight into what is working well and what might not be work so well. When old patterns that no longer serve us, are uncovered, new ways of thinking and being will reflect a life that is true to you!
Hey there! Life can leave us with thoughts, feelings, and emotions that are sometimes difficult to navigate on our own. Everyone deserves a safe space to honestly share their burdens and celebrate their successes! I believe change is inevitable when we show up authentically and strive to gain insight into what is working well and what might not be work so well. When old patterns that no longer serve us, are uncovered, new ways of thinking and being will reflect a life that is true to you!
(319) 264-1953 View (319) 264-1953
Photo of Dawn M Hupfeld, Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCPT-II, CDBT, CPD
Dawn M Hupfeld
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCPT-II, CDBT, CPD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
“Compassionate, practical therapy for rural Iowans who carry more than they show.” Therapy for Complex Trauma, PTSD, Personality Disorders, and Attachment Wounds Serving adults across Iowa through compassionate, evidence‑based telehealth.
“Compassionate, practical therapy for rural Iowans who carry more than they show.” Therapy for Complex Trauma, PTSD, Personality Disorders, and Attachment Wounds Serving adults across Iowa through compassionate, evidence‑based telehealth.
(319) 316-6830 View (319) 316-6830
Photo of Micah Minor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Micah Minor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Elkader, IA 52043
Micah provides office-based, school-based, and virtual therapy out of our Elkader Office. Micah works with all ages, 3 and up. Micah has extensive experience working with school-aged children including kids with behavioral concerns and complex family dynamics. Micah is trained in trauma-informed care and has experience working with inattention, hyperactivity, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depressed mood, and adjustment-related stressors. Micah began her career with RISE in June 2024.
Micah provides office-based, school-based, and virtual therapy out of our Elkader Office. Micah works with all ages, 3 and up. Micah has extensive experience working with school-aged children including kids with behavioral concerns and complex family dynamics. Micah is trained in trauma-informed care and has experience working with inattention, hyperactivity, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depressed mood, and adjustment-related stressors. Micah began her career with RISE in June 2024.
(563) 921-0628 View (563) 921-0628

Online Therapists

Photo of Carissa Schmadeke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Carissa Schmadeke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Everyone deserves to have a safe space and someone consistent whom they can rely on during some of life’s most challenging moments. I believe that creating a strong therapeutic bond is vital for the success of therapy, but it also takes finding the right fit! I strive to create a comfortable, safe, and welcoming environment for all clients. I utilize a client-centered approach that allows myself and each client the opportunity to tailor the therapy to meet their specific goals. I hope for all of my clients to feel empowered through finding their strengths so that they have the opportunity to reach their goals and greatest potential!
Everyone deserves to have a safe space and someone consistent whom they can rely on during some of life’s most challenging moments. I believe that creating a strong therapeutic bond is vital for the success of therapy, but it also takes finding the right fit! I strive to create a comfortable, safe, and welcoming environment for all clients. I utilize a client-centered approach that allows myself and each client the opportunity to tailor the therapy to meet their specific goals. I hope for all of my clients to feel empowered through finding their strengths so that they have the opportunity to reach their goals and greatest potential!
(319) 327-5078 View (319) 327-5078
Photo of Jake Pierce-Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Jake Pierce-Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Online Only
Real lasting positive change is possible. And it doesn’t have to take the rest of your life. Whether you want to improve your relationships, feel better about yourself, finally quit your addiction(s), resolve anxiety or depression, or heal pain from the past, I provide professional therapy for real healing, growth, and change. Sometimes this means learning to create greater safety inside – more kindness and less criticism. Sometimes it's about becoming more embodied, grounded, and present. Sometimes it’s about going back into the past to heal what was hurt. It's different for everyone, but possible for anyone.
Real lasting positive change is possible. And it doesn’t have to take the rest of your life. Whether you want to improve your relationships, feel better about yourself, finally quit your addiction(s), resolve anxiety or depression, or heal pain from the past, I provide professional therapy for real healing, growth, and change. Sometimes this means learning to create greater safety inside – more kindness and less criticism. Sometimes it's about becoming more embodied, grounded, and present. Sometimes it’s about going back into the past to heal what was hurt. It's different for everyone, but possible for anyone.
(218) 260-9237 View (218) 260-9237
Photo of M. Catherine Gornet, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , t-LMFT
M. Catherine Gornet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , t-LMFT
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Cat believes that each one of us has the intuitive ability to heal and restore ourselves with ordinary awareness in present living. She invites you into a warm, non-judgemental and supportive environment to begin the important work of finding peace of mind and joy in everyday living. When we enjoy mental wellness, we feel connected to those close to us and the beauty of the natural world. Cat offers uncomplicated guidance for a variety of mental health concerns in a down to earth, attentive, and friendly way.
Cat believes that each one of us has the intuitive ability to heal and restore ourselves with ordinary awareness in present living. She invites you into a warm, non-judgemental and supportive environment to begin the important work of finding peace of mind and joy in everyday living. When we enjoy mental wellness, we feel connected to those close to us and the beauty of the natural world. Cat offers uncomplicated guidance for a variety of mental health concerns in a down to earth, attentive, and friendly way.
(319) 432-0542 View (319) 432-0542
Photo of Carrie Trowbridge, Licensed Professional Counselor, TLMHC
Carrie Trowbridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, TLMHC
Online Only
Hi, I am Carrie Trowbridge, I seek authenticity and deep understanding with my clients to engage their curiosity about their own selves and circumstances. In our work, I offer support and direction to help you identify and meet your goals. My client-centred approach provides a safe space to address any areas of struggle, distress or transition. I have a down to earth approach in which clients have described me as being a genuine and caring therapist who is able to meet you where you are to assist in your journey. I am a trauma therapist who uses modalities including EMDR, Trauma Informed Yoga, Mindfulness, Meditation, CBT, and ACT.
Hi, I am Carrie Trowbridge, I seek authenticity and deep understanding with my clients to engage their curiosity about their own selves and circumstances. In our work, I offer support and direction to help you identify and meet your goals. My client-centred approach provides a safe space to address any areas of struggle, distress or transition. I have a down to earth approach in which clients have described me as being a genuine and caring therapist who is able to meet you where you are to assist in your journey. I am a trauma therapist who uses modalities including EMDR, Trauma Informed Yoga, Mindfulness, Meditation, CBT, and ACT.
(319) 419-4448 View (319) 419-4448
Photo of Tara Wilford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Tara Wilford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Waitlist for new clients
You bring the lived experience—I bring clinical insight and an outside perspective to help you navigate challenges and move forward. I work with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, burnout, and ADHD. My style is direct, collaborative, and compassionate. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT to help you build practical coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and create meaningful, lasting change. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, therapy can help you gain clarity, confidence, and tools to function better in your daily life.
You bring the lived experience—I bring clinical insight and an outside perspective to help you navigate challenges and move forward. I work with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, burnout, and ADHD. My style is direct, collaborative, and compassionate. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT to help you build practical coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and create meaningful, lasting change. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, therapy can help you gain clarity, confidence, and tools to function better in your daily life.
(319) 895-1932 View (319) 895-1932
Photo of Caleb Thomas, Counselor, MA, LMHC, SPARC
Caleb Thomas
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SPARC
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Struggling with internet addiction, anxiety, or feeling emotionally stuck? You don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in serving multicultural men, teens as well as families who may not always see themselves reflected in traditional mental-health settings. I use solutions-focused, evidence-based holistic methods incorporating emotional, physical and mental well-being thoughtfully integrating faith into the therapeutic healing process when desired. I'm Caleb Thomas, MA, LMHC, SPARC a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, ordained Christian minister and Sex/Porn Addiction Recovery Coach who provides warm, prompt, nonjudgmental care.
Struggling with internet addiction, anxiety, or feeling emotionally stuck? You don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in serving multicultural men, teens as well as families who may not always see themselves reflected in traditional mental-health settings. I use solutions-focused, evidence-based holistic methods incorporating emotional, physical and mental well-being thoughtfully integrating faith into the therapeutic healing process when desired. I'm Caleb Thomas, MA, LMHC, SPARC a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, ordained Christian minister and Sex/Porn Addiction Recovery Coach who provides warm, prompt, nonjudgmental care.
(319) 774-4332 View (319) 774-4332
Photo of Jennifer Jorgensen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jennifer Jorgensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
My intention is to create a nonjudgemental and collaborative relationship with my clients rooted in kindness and respect. I work with individuals and couples to find solutions as I believe focusing on strengths can create hope for the future. In therapy, I will help you identify your needs and support you on your journey moving towards better communication, healing and growth so you may feel connected to yourself and the world around you in a meaningful way. I am committed to practicing with cultural humility as I understand how gender, race, sexuality, disability, and other factors influence how we engage in life's challenges.
My intention is to create a nonjudgemental and collaborative relationship with my clients rooted in kindness and respect. I work with individuals and couples to find solutions as I believe focusing on strengths can create hope for the future. In therapy, I will help you identify your needs and support you on your journey moving towards better communication, healing and growth so you may feel connected to yourself and the world around you in a meaningful way. I am committed to practicing with cultural humility as I understand how gender, race, sexuality, disability, and other factors influence how we engage in life's challenges.
(319) 302-3599 View (319) 302-3599
Photo of Erin Thiemann, Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Erin Thiemann
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Does life feel overwhelming? Overstimulating? Do you struggle with boundaries and meeting your own needs? Do you feel lost in parenthood? The unlimited stressors of our current world can leave us feeling unprepared, anxious, and struggling with life transitions, relationships, careers, and even daily tasks. You do not have to continue feeling unseen or unheard. You deserve a space to show up for yourself, to work towards growth, and to be supported along the way. If you wish to process life changes, explore neurodivergence, receive maternal mental health counseling, or to reduce anxiety/OCD symptoms, you are in the right place.
Does life feel overwhelming? Overstimulating? Do you struggle with boundaries and meeting your own needs? Do you feel lost in parenthood? The unlimited stressors of our current world can leave us feeling unprepared, anxious, and struggling with life transitions, relationships, careers, and even daily tasks. You do not have to continue feeling unseen or unheard. You deserve a space to show up for yourself, to work towards growth, and to be supported along the way. If you wish to process life changes, explore neurodivergence, receive maternal mental health counseling, or to reduce anxiety/OCD symptoms, you are in the right place.
(319) 246-7659 View (319) 246-7659
Photo of Marshall McElhinney, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EFT
Marshall McElhinney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EFT
7 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Waitlist for new clients
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to understand your own story and break free from the traps that hold us back from change. You are brave because you are here. One quote that resonates with me is from Carl Whitaker, who once wrote, “Until you break with your patterns, the rut continues to deepen. Life goes on, but living dies”. Throughout my career, I have witnessed how being unheard and misunderstood creates a sense of feeling judgment and shame. I want to help by creating a space for healing and advancement by honoring that those experiences are a source of pain.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is to understand your own story and break free from the traps that hold us back from change. You are brave because you are here. One quote that resonates with me is from Carl Whitaker, who once wrote, “Until you break with your patterns, the rut continues to deepen. Life goes on, but living dies”. Throughout my career, I have witnessed how being unheard and misunderstood creates a sense of feeling judgment and shame. I want to help by creating a space for healing and advancement by honoring that those experiences are a source of pain.
(319) 220-5753 View (319) 220-5753
Photo of Jill Danielle Gronewold, Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Jill Danielle Gronewold
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I use a variety of modalities to treat a wide range of presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. My professional training includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, and grief. I have experience in providing counseling from a Christian perspective, although I welcome clients from other faith and spiritual backgrounds.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I use a variety of modalities to treat a wide range of presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. My professional training includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, and grief. I have experience in providing counseling from a Christian perspective, although I welcome clients from other faith and spiritual backgrounds.
(641) 715-9961 View (641) 715-9961
Photo of Andrew Levitt, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Andrew Levitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
You are probably reaching out because things aren't going well. Maybe it's been a while and the direction seems to be going the wrong way. That's a courageous first step, to ask for help. But embedded in that is the seed of hope that maybe life could be better. Maybe. That's the magic of therapy. Life gets better. People who work with me feel like they turn their lives around. Less anxiety. More self-awareness. Peace of mind. New beginnings. Connection.
You are probably reaching out because things aren't going well. Maybe it's been a while and the direction seems to be going the wrong way. That's a courageous first step, to ask for help. But embedded in that is the seed of hope that maybe life could be better. Maybe. That's the magic of therapy. Life gets better. People who work with me feel like they turn their lives around. Less anxiety. More self-awareness. Peace of mind. New beginnings. Connection.
(319) 725-2203 View (319) 725-2203
Photo of Patricia C Gilbaugh - Grace C Mae Advocate Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW, RPT-S, CAS
Grace C Mae Advocate Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW, RPT-S, CAS
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Grace C Mae Advocate Center is based on our founder's experiences of having a child born with complex medical needs and hidden disabilities. Grace took Dr. McLain on a journey of self-discovery-which led her to be inspired to help others in their times of need. Our therapists work with people of all ages, and many types of problems. It is our mission to help people find solutions to their unique and diverse problems. We work hard to restore hope, and to find solutions. We approach our work with compassion and no judgement. We have offices in Cedar Rapids, Marengo, Marshalltown, and Washington.
Grace C Mae Advocate Center is based on our founder's experiences of having a child born with complex medical needs and hidden disabilities. Grace took Dr. McLain on a journey of self-discovery-which led her to be inspired to help others in their times of need. Our therapists work with people of all ages, and many types of problems. It is our mission to help people find solutions to their unique and diverse problems. We work hard to restore hope, and to find solutions. We approach our work with compassion and no judgement. We have offices in Cedar Rapids, Marengo, Marshalltown, and Washington.
(641) 326-3190 View (641) 326-3190

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in McGregor, IA

< 10

Therapists in McGregor, IA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% ADHD
100% Depression
100% Addiction
100% Anxiety
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Grief

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Anthem

How Therapists in McGregor, IA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in McGregor?

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.