Therapists in Chicago, IL

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Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
In moments we feel inadequate, uncertain, or even confused, we often look for a helping hand. As a therapist, I perfectly understand that we all need a little extra support at some point in our lives. Together, we will work out solutions that could help you grow as an individual. Working with me can help improve your emotional well-being, make peace with your past, and live the life you’ve always wanted. Our minds can get overwhelmed sometimes, but I will help you unravel what’s causing you stress. Whether it is anxiety, grief, abuse, or even a tough breakup – there will be no judgment from me. Help is just a phone call away.
In moments we feel inadequate, uncertain, or even confused, we often look for a helping hand. As a therapist, I perfectly understand that we all need a little extra support at some point in our lives. Together, we will work out solutions that could help you grow as an individual. Working with me can help improve your emotional well-being, make peace with your past, and live the life you’ve always wanted. Our minds can get overwhelmed sometimes, but I will help you unravel what’s causing you stress. Whether it is anxiety, grief, abuse, or even a tough breakup – there will be no judgment from me. Help is just a phone call away.
(773) 985-2443 View (773) 985-2443
Photo of Anna Freedman - Freedman & Katz Psychotherapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Freedman & Katz Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
We live in an increasingly disconnected society. Many of us feel isolated, worried, overwhelmed, and stuck as we navigate the often conflicting demands of our personal, professional, and social worlds. We look at how we habitually respond under stress and are curious about trying something new. We wonder if it's possible to build new or deeper relationships, or bring calm to turbulent ones. We seek to find what ignites our own sparks after nurturing the sparks of others for so long...
We live in an increasingly disconnected society. Many of us feel isolated, worried, overwhelmed, and stuck as we navigate the often conflicting demands of our personal, professional, and social worlds. We look at how we habitually respond under stress and are curious about trying something new. We wonder if it's possible to build new or deeper relationships, or bring calm to turbulent ones. We seek to find what ignites our own sparks after nurturing the sparks of others for so long...
(872) 327-5560 View (872) 327-5560
Photo of Heather Nyheim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Heather Nyheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
For whatever challenge you're facing right now that brings you to therapy, know that it is my first priority for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. From the foundation of a warm and supportive therapeutic environment, we will help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself so that you can better navigate and cope with the challenges you are facing. My approach is rooted in psychodynamic theory, which explores your unconscious processes and past experiences to understand behaviors and emotions. I believe that a deeper self understanding gives us more agency in the present to respond to stressors in new, more helpful ways.
For whatever challenge you're facing right now that brings you to therapy, know that it is my first priority for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. From the foundation of a warm and supportive therapeutic environment, we will help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself so that you can better navigate and cope with the challenges you are facing. My approach is rooted in psychodynamic theory, which explores your unconscious processes and past experiences to understand behaviors and emotions. I believe that a deeper self understanding gives us more agency in the present to respond to stressors in new, more helpful ways.
(872) 272-7314 View (872) 272-7314
Photo of Dena Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dena Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling unheard, misunderstood, struggling to find your footing in this world? Navigating this thing we call life can be a daunting process. Starting therapy can be a difficult decision and my desire in this work is to meet you where you are and build trust as we embark on this journey together. In my work, I seek to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore the many layers of yourself. I am honored to participate in the journey of you authoring your own story, one that fully encapsulates the complex person whom you are.
Are you feeling unheard, misunderstood, struggling to find your footing in this world? Navigating this thing we call life can be a daunting process. Starting therapy can be a difficult decision and my desire in this work is to meet you where you are and build trust as we embark on this journey together. In my work, I seek to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore the many layers of yourself. I am honored to participate in the journey of you authoring your own story, one that fully encapsulates the complex person whom you are.
(872) 259-7122 View (872) 259-7122
Photo of Clara Donaldson, EdS, LCPC, CCTP, PMHC
Clara Donaldson
EdS, LCPC, CCTP, PMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I'm Clara! As a therapist, I support clients through key moments of transition and personal growth in their lives. I specialize in the perinatal period - pre-conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. I understand that this time can be filled with complex emotions, challenges, and feelings of overwhelm, and I work collaboratively with clients to help them navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological shifts that come with it. I provide a compassionate and supportive space to help clients process their experiences and transform into a strong, vibrant, and resilient version of themselves.
Hi, I'm Clara! As a therapist, I support clients through key moments of transition and personal growth in their lives. I specialize in the perinatal period - pre-conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. I understand that this time can be filled with complex emotions, challenges, and feelings of overwhelm, and I work collaboratively with clients to help them navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological shifts that come with it. I provide a compassionate and supportive space to help clients process their experiences and transform into a strong, vibrant, and resilient version of themselves.
(773) 754-4630 View (773) 754-4630
Photo of Franki Catinella, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Franki Catinella
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with individuals who present with a variety of issues including navigating/exploring gender and sexuality, anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, substance use, relationship issues within monogamous and multiple partner relationships (polyamory, consensual non-monogamy), and life-stage adjustment. I trust in the importance of therapeutic rapport and creating safe, trusting, non-judgmental environments. Working together in a safe environment, I aid you in restoring hope and facilitate healing by helping you discover how to cope with day-to-day stressors, including environmental strains and life transitions.
I work with individuals who present with a variety of issues including navigating/exploring gender and sexuality, anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, substance use, relationship issues within monogamous and multiple partner relationships (polyamory, consensual non-monogamy), and life-stage adjustment. I trust in the importance of therapeutic rapport and creating safe, trusting, non-judgmental environments. Working together in a safe environment, I aid you in restoring hope and facilitate healing by helping you discover how to cope with day-to-day stressors, including environmental strains and life transitions.
(773) 207-2122 View (773) 207-2122
Photo of Elizabeth Marx, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elizabeth Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals.
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals.
(618) 486-1388 View (618) 486-1388
Photo of Alyssa Cline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alyssa Cline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Alyssa Cline is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her master’s degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She decided to become a therapist after working as a caseworker in foster care for years and wanting to spend more time helping the parents and children process hard situations.
Alyssa Cline is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her master’s degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She decided to become a therapist after working as a caseworker in foster care for years and wanting to spend more time helping the parents and children process hard situations.
(773) 839-2804 View (773) 839-2804
Photo of Michelle Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Michelle Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about assisting others as they draw meaning in their lives and seek to establish relational support when faced with adversity. Oftentimes it is difficult to connect from the inside out and from the outside in when we are hurting. Many individuals are longing for someone to hear, care, and validate their feelings. I have worked with diverse populations with a myriad of mental health challenges, and have come to an understanding that hurt and pain knows no race, creed, or ethnicity; we all share in these throughout our lifetime.
I am passionate about assisting others as they draw meaning in their lives and seek to establish relational support when faced with adversity. Oftentimes it is difficult to connect from the inside out and from the outside in when we are hurting. Many individuals are longing for someone to hear, care, and validate their feelings. I have worked with diverse populations with a myriad of mental health challenges, and have come to an understanding that hurt and pain knows no race, creed, or ethnicity; we all share in these throughout our lifetime.
(708) 501-6149 View (708) 501-6149
Photo of Jami Pugh, Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR-BC, NCC
Jami Pugh
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Jami and I'm a licensed therapist & board-certified art therapist. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem, perfectionism, life changes/transitions, grief, identity, and stress (work, school, relationships, etc). I aim to create a safe and supportive space for people to focus on healing, growth, & skill-building. My approach in therapist is person-centered & rooted in mutual respect, warmth, trust, and honesty. Empathy, creativity, & evidence-based practices are my "north-stars" in my work to help people get unstuck and move toward their goals & hopes.
Hi, I'm Jami and I'm a licensed therapist & board-certified art therapist. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem, perfectionism, life changes/transitions, grief, identity, and stress (work, school, relationships, etc). I aim to create a safe and supportive space for people to focus on healing, growth, & skill-building. My approach in therapist is person-centered & rooted in mutual respect, warmth, trust, and honesty. Empathy, creativity, & evidence-based practices are my "north-stars" in my work to help people get unstuck and move toward their goals & hopes.
(872) 252-7836 View (872) 252-7836
Photo of Jancey Wickstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jancey Wickstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
My expertise and passion is building therapeutic relationships that combine evidence-based practice tools within a relational framework. This allows a collaborative groundwork to address many issues people bring to therapy. Many of the things we struggle with in life are a result of disconnect from emotion- it's made sense to avoid emotion to get through. This could look like depression, anxiety, not showing up in the way you want, unfulfilling relationships, or other types of avoidance. And maybe now that's not working. If you want something different in life, let's figure it out together.
My expertise and passion is building therapeutic relationships that combine evidence-based practice tools within a relational framework. This allows a collaborative groundwork to address many issues people bring to therapy. Many of the things we struggle with in life are a result of disconnect from emotion- it's made sense to avoid emotion to get through. This could look like depression, anxiety, not showing up in the way you want, unfulfilling relationships, or other types of avoidance. And maybe now that's not working. If you want something different in life, let's figure it out together.
(872) 241-2046 View (872) 241-2046
Photo of Jackie Chavez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jackie Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Relationships are at the heart of our human experience, shaping who we are and how we see the world. They offer us connection, comfort, and growth, yet they also bring challenges that reveal our vulnerabilities. In navigating these highs and lows, relationships teach us resilience, empathy, and the strength that comes from being truly seen and understood. In our work together, my priority is to provide a safe, collaborative space where we can explore and accept all parts of ourselves and our relationships.
Relationships are at the heart of our human experience, shaping who we are and how we see the world. They offer us connection, comfort, and growth, yet they also bring challenges that reveal our vulnerabilities. In navigating these highs and lows, relationships teach us resilience, empathy, and the strength that comes from being truly seen and understood. In our work together, my priority is to provide a safe, collaborative space where we can explore and accept all parts of ourselves and our relationships.
(773) 243-4846 View (773) 243-4846
Photo of Nomi Ostrander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MPH, LCSW, LICSW, CST
Nomi Ostrander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MPH, LCSW, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
Online Only
My assumption about most people who seek out a therapist is they are stuck in a situation and have already tried everything they can think of to get unstuck. My approach is pragmatic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and polycules to develop new skills that will empower them to move towards the lives they want to live. I am a total nerd about therapy and love the creativity of tailoring therapeutic approaches to clients.
My assumption about most people who seek out a therapist is they are stuck in a situation and have already tried everything they can think of to get unstuck. My approach is pragmatic, non-judgmental, and client-centered. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and polycules to develop new skills that will empower them to move towards the lives they want to live. I am a total nerd about therapy and love the creativity of tailoring therapeutic approaches to clients.
(773) 570-9525 View (773) 570-9525
Photo of Amy Schierbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Schierbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Amy Schierbaum is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Amy has practiced Social Work for the past 12 years. She has worked in public education, therapeutic programming, and addiction treatment. She is passionate about helping others; meeting her clients where they are at, developing a trusting rapport, and working together to accomplish their goals. Amy is committed to treating adolescents, individuals, couples, and families.
Amy Schierbaum is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Amy has practiced Social Work for the past 12 years. She has worked in public education, therapeutic programming, and addiction treatment. She is passionate about helping others; meeting her clients where they are at, developing a trusting rapport, and working together to accomplish their goals. Amy is committed to treating adolescents, individuals, couples, and families.
(872) 309-3127 View (872) 309-3127
Photo of Payal Sud - Payal Sud, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Payal Sud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Culture is beautiful, but it is also complicated. The complexity of culture can take its toll on us, resulting in anxiety, depression, stress, or mood swings. Navigating how your culture and diversity play a role in your life can present hardships in the workplace, school, and life in general. Even relationships can be affected, whether with family, friends, or partners. The bright side is we don't have to face these challenges alone.
Culture is beautiful, but it is also complicated. The complexity of culture can take its toll on us, resulting in anxiety, depression, stress, or mood swings. Navigating how your culture and diversity play a role in your life can present hardships in the workplace, school, and life in general. Even relationships can be affected, whether with family, friends, or partners. The bright side is we don't have to face these challenges alone.
(773) 804-8945 View (773) 804-8945
Photo of Susan Burrows, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Susan Burrows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Susan! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. My focus in therapy is to help the client feel better, overcome their challenges, and to live a more fulfilling life. My approach in therapy is supportive, laid back, understanding, compassionate and empathetic. I use solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy.
Hi there, I'm Susan! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. My focus in therapy is to help the client feel better, overcome their challenges, and to live a more fulfilling life. My approach in therapy is supportive, laid back, understanding, compassionate and empathetic. I use solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy.
(872) 350-0873 View (872) 350-0873
Photo of Alexis Kreashko, Counselor, LCPC
Alexis Kreashko
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with adults of all ages who may be facing various struggles including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues and substance use/abuse. As obstacles are constantly presented to us in life, my goal for clients is to have the confidence in themselves and their ability to live the life they want and deserve. I am here to act as a guide and support system with my clients while they discover the abilities they have within them. We often can be our toughest critics and I strive to provide people a space where they can build kindness and grace within themselves in order to improve their lives.
I work with adults of all ages who may be facing various struggles including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues and substance use/abuse. As obstacles are constantly presented to us in life, my goal for clients is to have the confidence in themselves and their ability to live the life they want and deserve. I am here to act as a guide and support system with my clients while they discover the abilities they have within them. We often can be our toughest critics and I strive to provide people a space where they can build kindness and grace within themselves in order to improve their lives.
(773) 207-2113 View (773) 207-2113
Photo of Devin Teicher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devin Teicher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello to all! My name is Devin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in the behavioral health field for almost ten years in a variety of different settings. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative approach based on a foundation of empathy and trust, and that each person is the expert of their own lives. I'm here to help support you in making informed decisions to promote healing and achieve your therapy goals, whether that is through identifying and building coping skills, understanding and utilizing your strengths, or processing and exploring complex emotions and life changes.
Hello to all! My name is Devin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in the behavioral health field for almost ten years in a variety of different settings. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative approach based on a foundation of empathy and trust, and that each person is the expert of their own lives. I'm here to help support you in making informed decisions to promote healing and achieve your therapy goals, whether that is through identifying and building coping skills, understanding and utilizing your strengths, or processing and exploring complex emotions and life changes.
(773) 537-4293 View (773) 537-4293
Photo of Aimee Daramus, Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Aimee Daramus
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I've spent my entire professional life working with people who have trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or a psychotic disorder. My clients are fighting a hard fight, and I value being in it with them. I called my web site "Audeo", which is Latin for "I dare", because my typical client needs some courage just to look up a therapist (or *another* therapist) and I respect it. When it was hard for you to show up for therapy, or use your coping skills, or get up today, you have my respect. You might be doing everything right when you don't feel right at all.
I've spent my entire professional life working with people who have trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or a psychotic disorder. My clients are fighting a hard fight, and I value being in it with them. I called my web site "Audeo", which is Latin for "I dare", because my typical client needs some courage just to look up a therapist (or *another* therapist) and I respect it. When it was hard for you to show up for therapy, or use your coping skills, or get up today, you have my respect. You might be doing everything right when you don't feel right at all.
(872) 266-4436 View (872) 266-4436
Photo of Dr. Caitlin McIlwee, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Caitlin McIlwee
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Welcome! My name is Caitlin, and I'm a clinical psychologist that specializes in cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), especially in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, panic, phobias, stress, and sleep. I provide individual psychotherapy to older teens, young adults, and adults. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify active goals for treatment, with a focus on living a life that's flexible, fulfilling, and guided by one's values. I strive to create a supportive and strong therapeutic bond with my clients by using warmth, unconditional positive regard, compassion, and some lightheartedness and humor, when appropriate.
Welcome! My name is Caitlin, and I'm a clinical psychologist that specializes in cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), especially in the treatment of anxiety, OCD, panic, phobias, stress, and sleep. I provide individual psychotherapy to older teens, young adults, and adults. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify active goals for treatment, with a focus on living a life that's flexible, fulfilling, and guided by one's values. I strive to create a supportive and strong therapeutic bond with my clients by using warmth, unconditional positive regard, compassion, and some lightheartedness and humor, when appropriate.
(872) 266-1790 View (872) 266-1790
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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
76% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
52% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% 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.