Therapists in Chicago, IL

View neighborhoods in Chicago
Photo of Brett Deppert, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Brett Deppert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
As a queer-identifying therapist, I understand the unique challenges you may face. I have experience helping individuals with a history of anxiety, depression, trauma, dependency, complex relationships, and substance use. These concerns often take the form of a loss of self-control, a sense of alienation, a lack of affirming relationships, and destructive behaviors concerning family, friends, work, or self. We will explore the underlying causes of these behaviors and develop healthier ways to manage stress and build more fulfilling relationships.
As a queer-identifying therapist, I understand the unique challenges you may face. I have experience helping individuals with a history of anxiety, depression, trauma, dependency, complex relationships, and substance use. These concerns often take the form of a loss of self-control, a sense of alienation, a lack of affirming relationships, and destructive behaviors concerning family, friends, work, or self. We will explore the underlying causes of these behaviors and develop healthier ways to manage stress and build more fulfilling relationships.
(708) 412-6325 View (708) 412-6325
Photo of Mark DeRemer - In Search of Meaning Therapy, Mark DeRemer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
In Search of Meaning Therapy, Mark DeRemer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Online Only
As we go through life we often find ourselves wondering what we can do to better in our relationships with our significant others, family members and others around us. It seems as if we have tried everything, but nothing seems to work, at least not for a long time period. As a therapist, I believe in compassion, therapeutic alliance, and a non-judgmental environment to be with you every step of the way as you reach your goals. I am a Certified Psychotherapist that has emphasized in trauma, complex trauma, relationship issues, Grief, Infidelity, anxiety, and mood disorders.
As we go through life we often find ourselves wondering what we can do to better in our relationships with our significant others, family members and others around us. It seems as if we have tried everything, but nothing seems to work, at least not for a long time period. As a therapist, I believe in compassion, therapeutic alliance, and a non-judgmental environment to be with you every step of the way as you reach your goals. I am a Certified Psychotherapist that has emphasized in trauma, complex trauma, relationship issues, Grief, Infidelity, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(773) 922-6963 View (773) 922-6963
Photo of Blair Michele Meehan, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Blair Michele Meehan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
With my education in counseling and Art Therapy, I blend creativity with conversation to help individuals explore their emotions and foster personal growth. I understand the profound impact that art can have on mental and emotional well-being, and I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate your personal journey. My approach focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can express themselves freely, with curiosity instead of judgment.
With my education in counseling and Art Therapy, I blend creativity with conversation to help individuals explore their emotions and foster personal growth. I understand the profound impact that art can have on mental and emotional well-being, and I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate your personal journey. My approach focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can express themselves freely, with curiosity instead of judgment.
(872) 253-6421 View (872) 253-6421
Photo of Randall O'Neill, Licensed Social Worker, MA, MAT, MSW, LSW
Randall O'Neill
Licensed Social Worker, MA, MAT, MSW, LSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
(872) 704-8370 View (872) 704-8370
Photo of Tanya Leibman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tanya Leibman
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
There are many reasons to look for a therapist. While I do not know your reasons, I do know it is often when it is hard to find help that you most need it. I work well with people who struggle to trust others, or have had difficulty feeling understood. Having worked in inpatient, community health, and private practice I have had the opportunity to support people with a large range of issues, often dealing with many issues at once. I bring my knowledge base and ways of understanding into the room - I aim to recognize how various factors interplay: family history, biology, identity, culture, and personality to name a few.
There are many reasons to look for a therapist. While I do not know your reasons, I do know it is often when it is hard to find help that you most need it. I work well with people who struggle to trust others, or have had difficulty feeling understood. Having worked in inpatient, community health, and private practice I have had the opportunity to support people with a large range of issues, often dealing with many issues at once. I bring my knowledge base and ways of understanding into the room - I aim to recognize how various factors interplay: family history, biology, identity, culture, and personality to name a few.
(312) 766-9184 x2 View (312) 766-9184 x2
Photo of Caitlin McQueen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Caitlin McQueen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone deserves to live a meaningful life, no matter what we have experienced or where we may come from. Therapy can be a great place to explore your values, beliefs, and attitudes, and examine how you might reorient those concepts to align with your authentic self. My clients are the experts on their own lives, and I am here to facilitate your exploration of yourself, others, and your worldview to find meaning in life. I have worked in mental health for seven years, with most of my work experience being community-based with BIPOC. I focus on trauma-informed care, specializing in complex trauma, grief, and existential concerns.
Everyone deserves to live a meaningful life, no matter what we have experienced or where we may come from. Therapy can be a great place to explore your values, beliefs, and attitudes, and examine how you might reorient those concepts to align with your authentic self. My clients are the experts on their own lives, and I am here to facilitate your exploration of yourself, others, and your worldview to find meaning in life. I have worked in mental health for seven years, with most of my work experience being community-based with BIPOC. I focus on trauma-informed care, specializing in complex trauma, grief, and existential concerns.
(872) 266-7813 View (872) 266-7813
Photo of Kayla Crump, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Kayla Crump
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Chicago, IL 60605
One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story! I believe that everyone should feel seen, heard, and affirmed! It is incredibly natural to feel overwhelmed in our present world. Yet, life is way too short to surrender to unhealthy relationships, self-esteem issues, rough life transitions, trauma, grief, anger, depression, or anxiety… to name a few. I strive to help you achieve whatever solutions and life change you are looking for while finding purpose in all your life areas and experiencing yourself in new ways. I am dedicated to keeping couples healthy, relationships loving, and individuals balanced.
One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story! I believe that everyone should feel seen, heard, and affirmed! It is incredibly natural to feel overwhelmed in our present world. Yet, life is way too short to surrender to unhealthy relationships, self-esteem issues, rough life transitions, trauma, grief, anger, depression, or anxiety… to name a few. I strive to help you achieve whatever solutions and life change you are looking for while finding purpose in all your life areas and experiencing yourself in new ways. I am dedicated to keeping couples healthy, relationships loving, and individuals balanced.
(312) 847-3559 x1 View (312) 847-3559 x1
Photo of Amanda (Aasha) Elliott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda (Aasha) Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60660
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, strengths-based, creative and collaborative, one in which I often incorporate meditation and somatic work, informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory. I seek to create a therapeutic environment where you will feel heard, validated and understood. We live in a society where we often feel we should weather stress alone but sometimes having someone truly hear you and see you makes all the difference.
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, strengths-based, creative and collaborative, one in which I often incorporate meditation and somatic work, informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory. I seek to create a therapeutic environment where you will feel heard, validated and understood. We live in a society where we often feel we should weather stress alone but sometimes having someone truly hear you and see you makes all the difference.
(773) 840-0308 View (773) 840-0308
Photo of Dr. Erin Burrell, Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Dr. Erin Burrell
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Online Only
Are you feeling unfulfilled, stressed, or hopeless? Do you desire to find purpose, direction, or simply understand yourself better? Many of our feelings and thoughts are outside of our awareness and continue to influence our everyday choices. Left unattended, these feelings and thoughts can come out in unhealthy ways – often resulting in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and/or low self-esteem. As a result, we can feel powerless to change our current circumstances and end up self-sabotaging what we want out of life.
Are you feeling unfulfilled, stressed, or hopeless? Do you desire to find purpose, direction, or simply understand yourself better? Many of our feelings and thoughts are outside of our awareness and continue to influence our everyday choices. Left unattended, these feelings and thoughts can come out in unhealthy ways – often resulting in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and/or low self-esteem. As a result, we can feel powerless to change our current circumstances and end up self-sabotaging what we want out of life.
(219) 491-2077 View (219) 491-2077
Photo of Sara Zulghena, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Sara Zulghena
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
“I'm just a soul whose intentions are good. Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood.” Those words, from a song by Nina Simone, could resonate with many of us who know how frustrating and even alienating it can feel to be misunderstood. Feeling this way is highly common in multicultural and complex societies. As a bilingual therapist and international resident, I have firsthand experience navigating multicultural challenges including the ways race, ethnicity, cultural background, gender, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, and religion intersect with mental health.
“I'm just a soul whose intentions are good. Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood.” Those words, from a song by Nina Simone, could resonate with many of us who know how frustrating and even alienating it can feel to be misunderstood. Feeling this way is highly common in multicultural and complex societies. As a bilingual therapist and international resident, I have firsthand experience navigating multicultural challenges including the ways race, ethnicity, cultural background, gender, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, and religion intersect with mental health.
(708) 726-3392 View (708) 726-3392
Photo of Wareesha Sohail, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Wareesha Sohail
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and it's completely normal to have mixed emotions about it. I believe that a genuine, trusting connection is the foundation of meaningful change, and it’s important that you feel safe, heard, and respected throughout the process. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself, especially during vulnerable moments, and work together to build a life you're proud of. I utilize Compassion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you move forward.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and it's completely normal to have mixed emotions about it. I believe that a genuine, trusting connection is the foundation of meaningful change, and it’s important that you feel safe, heard, and respected throughout the process. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself, especially during vulnerable moments, and work together to build a life you're proud of. I utilize Compassion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you move forward.
(773) 645-4173 View (773) 645-4173
Photo of Jessica Carrillo-Guerrero - Soluna Wellness Center, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Soluna Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60609
Do you ever feel like someone else is narrating your story and you have little control of what your future holds? At Soluna Wellness Center, we are excited to walk with you on a journey toward a better version of yourself. We will work with you to create a blueprint for what you want your life to look like. Together we will find the things that add value to your life and let go of the barriers that are holding you back.
Do you ever feel like someone else is narrating your story and you have little control of what your future holds? At Soluna Wellness Center, we are excited to walk with you on a journey toward a better version of yourself. We will work with you to create a blueprint for what you want your life to look like. Together we will find the things that add value to your life and let go of the barriers that are holding you back.
(773) 741-9002 View (773) 741-9002
Photo of Dr. Jasmine Alkhatib, Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Dr. Jasmine Alkhatib
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Not accepting new clients
As a multiracial, multicultural, and bilingual (Spanish) clinical psychotherapist, I am sensitive to the uniqueness of the human experience and the healing power of facing adversity. Identifying the needs and strengths of a person, with the person, is at the core of my work in therapy and psychological assessment. I collaborate with people of all ages and have the privilege of supporting individuals with emotional and behavioral concerns, relationship struggles, life transition challenges, and intergenerational and complex trauma.
As a multiracial, multicultural, and bilingual (Spanish) clinical psychotherapist, I am sensitive to the uniqueness of the human experience and the healing power of facing adversity. Identifying the needs and strengths of a person, with the person, is at the core of my work in therapy and psychological assessment. I collaborate with people of all ages and have the privilege of supporting individuals with emotional and behavioral concerns, relationship struggles, life transition challenges, and intergenerational and complex trauma.
(773) 906-4534 View (773) 906-4534
Photo of Hart McNicholas, Pre-Licensed Professional, BSc
Hart McNicholas
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSc
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Not accepting new clients
As a liberation-oriented therapist informed by biology, I see the world as a living being with all creatures in relation with each other. I see therapy as a tool to support folks by healing trauma in individuals and dyad/triad relationships. Moving folks from isolation to community and connectedness is a central goal of my work. My counseling work is focused on serving the LGBTQ+ community, especially those with shared identities and lived experiences of trans, neurodivergent, and disabled folks.
As a liberation-oriented therapist informed by biology, I see the world as a living being with all creatures in relation with each other. I see therapy as a tool to support folks by healing trauma in individuals and dyad/triad relationships. Moving folks from isolation to community and connectedness is a central goal of my work. My counseling work is focused on serving the LGBTQ+ community, especially those with shared identities and lived experiences of trans, neurodivergent, and disabled folks.
View
Photo of Lola Shaoxuan Wang - Psychological Evaluations for Immigration, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Psychological Evaluations for Immigration
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60661
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand that these services can be costly, which is why we provide affordable fees without compromising on the quality of our reports. Our team specializes in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waivers, VAWA, U/T Visa, and Cancellation of Removal cases. With extensive experience working with immigrants from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, we have successfully completed over 500 evaluations. With Spanish- and Chinese-speaking staff on our team, we are work with clients who speak other languages through telephonic interpreters.
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand that these services can be costly, which is why we provide affordable fees without compromising on the quality of our reports. Our team specializes in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waivers, VAWA, U/T Visa, and Cancellation of Removal cases. With extensive experience working with immigrants from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, we have successfully completed over 500 evaluations. With Spanish- and Chinese-speaking staff on our team, we are work with clients who speak other languages through telephonic interpreters.
(773) 598-6668 View (773) 598-6668
Photo of Zoe Ladas, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Zoe Ladas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60618
I look forward to working alongside you as we create a collaborative and engaging therapeutic space. Within the safety and trust of the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to increase your awareness, insight, and coping. My role is to tailor effective treatment strategies to your specific challenges, goals, and resources allowing you approach challenging life situations from a confident and connected space. My clinical approach also emphasizes identifying sources of joy and belonging to further strengthen your skills around managing stressors and triggers effectively.
I look forward to working alongside you as we create a collaborative and engaging therapeutic space. Within the safety and trust of the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to increase your awareness, insight, and coping. My role is to tailor effective treatment strategies to your specific challenges, goals, and resources allowing you approach challenging life situations from a confident and connected space. My clinical approach also emphasizes identifying sources of joy and belonging to further strengthen your skills around managing stressors and triggers effectively.
(773) 207-4336 View (773) 207-4336
Photo of Rachel E Cull, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Rachel E Cull
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
Dr. Cull works from an integrative, strength-based model, utilizing her training in systemic, transgenerational and intrapsychic models of change, while also embracing meditation, mindfulness, and more "here and now" cognitive-behavioral skills clients can apply immediately. She easily connects to the similar parts in all of us, while still celebrating our unique individuality. She has an engaging, warm, relational style, and her natural and sometimes witty demeanor creates a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, safe for exploration and recovery.
Dr. Cull works from an integrative, strength-based model, utilizing her training in systemic, transgenerational and intrapsychic models of change, while also embracing meditation, mindfulness, and more "here and now" cognitive-behavioral skills clients can apply immediately. She easily connects to the similar parts in all of us, while still celebrating our unique individuality. She has an engaging, warm, relational style, and her natural and sometimes witty demeanor creates a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, safe for exploration and recovery.
(773) 863-3164 View (773) 863-3164
Photo of Sarah Stephens Ramani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Stephens Ramani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60642
Not accepting new clients
My goal in therapy is to facilitate trust, safety and healing by developing strong, authentic relationships with clients. I draw from psychodynamic and attachment theory in my work; I believe that articulating one's thoughts and feelings is a powerful process that can create profound positive change. With this in mind, I create a collaborative environment for clients in which to explore some of life’s most difficult moments.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate trust, safety and healing by developing strong, authentic relationships with clients. I draw from psychodynamic and attachment theory in my work; I believe that articulating one's thoughts and feelings is a powerful process that can create profound positive change. With this in mind, I create a collaborative environment for clients in which to explore some of life’s most difficult moments.
(708) 726-8524 View (708) 726-8524
Photo of Lauren A Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren A Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60605
Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? Looking to create meaning in your life or just find some peace amongst the chaos? Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in overcoming any adversities you may currently face and get you on the path to achieving your goals! As a LCSW with a graduate degree from University of Chicago’s School of Social Administration I feel strongly that the therapy process is a dynamic relationship between therapist and client.
Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? Looking to create meaning in your life or just find some peace amongst the chaos? Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in overcoming any adversities you may currently face and get you on the path to achieving your goals! As a LCSW with a graduate degree from University of Chicago’s School of Social Administration I feel strongly that the therapy process is a dynamic relationship between therapist and client.
(773) 364-1631 View (773) 364-1631
Photo of David Fries, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
David Fries
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, or relationship issues…if you are new to therapy, a first time client, David will guide you through the process of healing and self-discovery. Together, you will work on building resilience, overcoming obstacles, and creating meaningful change in your life. With over 30 years of experience in the field of social work, David is dedicated to supporting individuals navigating the complexities of life, from emotional struggles to interpersonal challenges.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, or relationship issues…if you are new to therapy, a first time client, David will guide you through the process of healing and self-discovery. Together, you will work on building resilience, overcoming obstacles, and creating meaningful change in your life. With over 30 years of experience in the field of social work, David is dedicated to supporting individuals navigating the complexities of life, from emotional struggles to interpersonal challenges.
(872) 259-5305 View (872) 259-5305

See more therapy options for Chicago

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL

3,000+

Average cost per session

$155

Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Aetna
53% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
19% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chicago?

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.