Therapists in Chicago, IL

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Photo of Dr. Mark Aghakhan, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Mark Aghakhan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome, my name is Mark Aghakhan and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I utilize interventions that best match one’s style and approach toward daily experiences. Among areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, coping skills, identity, and strength building.
Welcome, my name is Mark Aghakhan and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I utilize interventions that best match one’s style and approach toward daily experiences. Among areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, coping skills, identity, and strength building.
(773) 867-5870 View (773) 867-5870
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 Nishma Patel, Counselor, LCPC
Nishma Patel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Have you ever felt unheard, misunderstood, stuck, or alone? Life has its difficult moments, but you don’t have to face them alone. I work with children and adolescents navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, and neurodivergence. I also support siblings and parents coping with the challenges of having a high-needs family member. Through a collaborative and holistic approach, I help families strengthen communication, build resilience, and foster lasting emotional well-being.
Have you ever felt unheard, misunderstood, stuck, or alone? Life has its difficult moments, but you don’t have to face them alone. I work with children and adolescents navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, and neurodivergence. I also support siblings and parents coping with the challenges of having a high-needs family member. Through a collaborative and holistic approach, I help families strengthen communication, build resilience, and foster lasting emotional well-being.
(872) 217-8890 View (872) 217-8890
Photo of Pamela Star - NorthStar Educational Advocates, EdS, NCSP
NorthStar Educational Advocates
EdS, NCSP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Does your child's school team feel more like adversaries than teammates? Perhaps you aren’t being treated as an equal in the process? Is there a clear difference between what the school recommends and what you know your child needs? An educational advocate can provide the fresh perspective and expertise needed to finally come to a resolution. Why I started NorthStar: Witnessing long waitlists and resource shortages firsthand, I felt compelled to make a difference. That's why I launched this educational advocacy business, offering private psychoeducational evaluations and expert guidance through the special education process.
Does your child's school team feel more like adversaries than teammates? Perhaps you aren’t being treated as an equal in the process? Is there a clear difference between what the school recommends and what you know your child needs? An educational advocate can provide the fresh perspective and expertise needed to finally come to a resolution. Why I started NorthStar: Witnessing long waitlists and resource shortages firsthand, I felt compelled to make a difference. That's why I launched this educational advocacy business, offering private psychoeducational evaluations and expert guidance through the special education process.
(708) 809-2888 View (708) 809-2888
Photo of Bruce Aaron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Bruce Aaron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660
Ever board a flight on a dark, dreary day, only to find yourself minutes later above the clouds in a clear sky? The truth is, the sun is always shining; it's just that at times, we can't see it. It's easy to loose track of the simple facts. I see therapy as a chance to remember or awaken some of the basic truths we may have known at one time, but through the ups and downs of life, have lost track of. Once reoriented to our truths, life feels more balanced and stable.
Ever board a flight on a dark, dreary day, only to find yourself minutes later above the clouds in a clear sky? The truth is, the sun is always shining; it's just that at times, we can't see it. It's easy to loose track of the simple facts. I see therapy as a chance to remember or awaken some of the basic truths we may have known at one time, but through the ups and downs of life, have lost track of. Once reoriented to our truths, life feels more balanced and stable.
(773) 904-2161 View (773) 904-2161
Photo of Arusy Lemus, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Arusy Lemus
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I provide treatment for a wide range of difficulties, including trauma, self-harm, mood disorders, school-related problems, and family conflict. I provide individual, family, and group therapy services in Spanish and English. My clinical experience includes working with low-income communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and the LGBTQIA+ population.
I provide treatment for a wide range of difficulties, including trauma, self-harm, mood disorders, school-related problems, and family conflict. I provide individual, family, and group therapy services in Spanish and English. My clinical experience includes working with low-income communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and the LGBTQIA+ population.
(773) 692-6889 View (773) 692-6889
Photo of Dr. Megan Griesel, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Dr. Megan Griesel
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Megan Griesel Psy.D is a pre-licensed clinical psychologist. She works with clients in helping them to discover how they can live a meaningful and healthy life. Dr. Griesel is client centered and strength based. She views clients as being the experts of their lives and strives to provide a safe space where clients can learn and grow. She has experience in working with a broad range of diverse, multicultural populations and with individuals across the life span. She also has experience in treating a range of different mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and co-occurring medical conditions.
Megan Griesel Psy.D is a pre-licensed clinical psychologist. She works with clients in helping them to discover how they can live a meaningful and healthy life. Dr. Griesel is client centered and strength based. She views clients as being the experts of their lives and strives to provide a safe space where clients can learn and grow. She has experience in working with a broad range of diverse, multicultural populations and with individuals across the life span. She also has experience in treating a range of different mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and co-occurring medical conditions.
(872) 327-9489 View (872) 327-9489
Photo of Alyssa Arnol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alyssa Arnol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy is an opportunity for you to gain insight, find hope, and make lasting change. I am committed to working collaboratively with you to develop increased awareness around your unique experiences and emotions and process what may be contributing to you feeling distressed, alone or in conflict. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key. As your therapist, I’ll create a safe space for you to explore your vulnerabilities while providing feedback to help you make meaning of your patterns and struggles. I’ll be there to support and challenge you as you strive to live your most authentic life.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to gain insight, find hope, and make lasting change. I am committed to working collaboratively with you to develop increased awareness around your unique experiences and emotions and process what may be contributing to you feeling distressed, alone or in conflict. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key. As your therapist, I’ll create a safe space for you to explore your vulnerabilities while providing feedback to help you make meaning of your patterns and struggles. I’ll be there to support and challenge you as you strive to live your most authentic life.
(224) 286-6511 View (224) 286-6511
Photo of Dr. Tiffany C. Brown - Family First Domestic & Family Counseling Clinic, PsyD, CAMS-II
Family First Domestic & Family Counseling Clinic
PsyD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60628
Family First Domestic & Family Counseling Clinic (FFCC) have advanced training in forensic psychology which provides them with the skills needed to work with and within the legal system. Family First offers a wide range of mental health services and assessment that give clients an opportunity to move beyond their current circumstances. We offer for individuals 15 years and older: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Assessment Comprehensive Psychological Assessments/Diagnostic Clarification FOID Reinstatement Assessment Parenting Capacity Assessment/Child Custody Evaluation
Family First Domestic & Family Counseling Clinic (FFCC) have advanced training in forensic psychology which provides them with the skills needed to work with and within the legal system. Family First offers a wide range of mental health services and assessment that give clients an opportunity to move beyond their current circumstances. We offer for individuals 15 years and older: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Assessment Comprehensive Psychological Assessments/Diagnostic Clarification FOID Reinstatement Assessment Parenting Capacity Assessment/Child Custody Evaluation
(773) 451-8634 View (773) 451-8634
Photo of Ellen Aldridge, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ellen Aldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
In today’s world, so many of us feel alone, overwhelmed, anxious, or even hopeless about life. You might feel like something isn’t right, but you’re not sure what. You might put on a mask to get through the day but when you get home, it feels like everything crumbles around you. You might feel like you are at war with yourself or stuck in events of the past. On top of this, our society is organized in a way that works against most of us and kicks us when we’re down.
In today’s world, so many of us feel alone, overwhelmed, anxious, or even hopeless about life. You might feel like something isn’t right, but you’re not sure what. You might put on a mask to get through the day but when you get home, it feels like everything crumbles around you. You might feel like you are at war with yourself or stuck in events of the past. On top of this, our society is organized in a way that works against most of us and kicks us when we’re down.
(872) 312-7161 x501 View (872) 312-7161 x501
Photo of Erin Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Erin Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I practice therapy utilizing a combined relational and psychodynamic approach often focusing on how our early experiences, and areas outside of our immediate awareness, influence who we are and how we interact with the world around us. I value the vulnerability it takes for someone to engage in therapy and therefore commit to listening and learning about how you view yourself, others, and the world in the hopes of creating a constructive and fruitful relationship. I appreciate that alongside life’s joys comes hardship, hurt, and disappointment, but believe that hope, compassion, and change are available to all.
I practice therapy utilizing a combined relational and psychodynamic approach often focusing on how our early experiences, and areas outside of our immediate awareness, influence who we are and how we interact with the world around us. I value the vulnerability it takes for someone to engage in therapy and therefore commit to listening and learning about how you view yourself, others, and the world in the hopes of creating a constructive and fruitful relationship. I appreciate that alongside life’s joys comes hardship, hurt, and disappointment, but believe that hope, compassion, and change are available to all.
(312) 766-4495 View (312) 766-4495
Photo of Gia Washington, Counselor
Gia Washington
Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you find yourself with more questions than answers? Is it difficult for you to remember the last time you felt like you were thriving instead of just existing? Are you feeling unappreciated, overlooked, and insecure? If any of this sounds familiar and you are looking for a "reset", therapy could be a great first step. We will work together and leverage your strengths to help you reach your goals. I do understand that therapy can be a bit scary.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you find yourself with more questions than answers? Is it difficult for you to remember the last time you felt like you were thriving instead of just existing? Are you feeling unappreciated, overlooked, and insecure? If any of this sounds familiar and you are looking for a "reset", therapy could be a great first step. We will work together and leverage your strengths to help you reach your goals. I do understand that therapy can be a bit scary.
(872) 985-0441 View (872) 985-0441
Photo of Courtney Rolfe, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Courtney Rolfe
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Clients often find me when they feel that traditional talk therapy doesn't seem to be enough - when they have gained lots of valuable insight into the "why" behind their experience, but the physiological symptoms persist. Intellectualy understanding our past traumas is different from healing, integrating, and organizing our past (and present) traumatic experiences. Clients who come to me are often engaged in an ongoing battle with their own nervous system responses, and often feel stuck in adaptive patterns without knowing how to break free.
Clients often find me when they feel that traditional talk therapy doesn't seem to be enough - when they have gained lots of valuable insight into the "why" behind their experience, but the physiological symptoms persist. Intellectualy understanding our past traumas is different from healing, integrating, and organizing our past (and present) traumatic experiences. Clients who come to me are often engaged in an ongoing battle with their own nervous system responses, and often feel stuck in adaptive patterns without knowing how to break free.
(773) 825-5014 View (773) 825-5014
Photo of Kara Luger, Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Kara Luger
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Just as there’s usually no “quick fix” in therapy, there’s no one path to healing – each person’s story needs to be recognized and honored. I strive to provide a nonjudgemental space that is not only collaborative and compassionate but also invites creativity, curiosity, and humor. I want to make our time together one where we explore your struggles and celebrate your wins.
Just as there’s usually no “quick fix” in therapy, there’s no one path to healing – each person’s story needs to be recognized and honored. I strive to provide a nonjudgemental space that is not only collaborative and compassionate but also invites creativity, curiosity, and humor. I want to make our time together one where we explore your struggles and celebrate your wins.
(773) 786-9154 View (773) 786-9154
Photo of Erica Negrete - Healing Space Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Healing Space Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, we all go through difficult moments in which we can benefit from therapeutic support. As a licensed therapist, I can accompany you in your healing journey. For me, therapy is a journey in which we work collaboratively to discover answers and solutions that empower you to build the type of life you want. As a bilingual Latina Therapist, I have a multicultural vision that allows me to easily understand and connect with problems related to cultural and racial issues that affect our well-being.
Hi, we all go through difficult moments in which we can benefit from therapeutic support. As a licensed therapist, I can accompany you in your healing journey. For me, therapy is a journey in which we work collaboratively to discover answers and solutions that empower you to build the type of life you want. As a bilingual Latina Therapist, I have a multicultural vision that allows me to easily understand and connect with problems related to cultural and racial issues that affect our well-being.
(708) 627-8358 View (708) 627-8358
Photo of Casz McCarthy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Casz McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you carrying pain that feels too heavy to name, let alone heal? Do the things you’ve lived through feel like a weight you can’t put down, or old wounds that echo into the present? Do you struggle to trust your emotions, or feel like they run the show? Or maybe you feel disconnected from others? Yet, even in the midst of all that, there’s a part of you longing for something different? Hello and welcome! I work with folks navigating complex trauma, deep emotional pain, and unjust systems. Through the use of collaborative, non-judgmental, and anti-oppressive frameworks, we center your resistance, healing, and self-determination.
Are you carrying pain that feels too heavy to name, let alone heal? Do the things you’ve lived through feel like a weight you can’t put down, or old wounds that echo into the present? Do you struggle to trust your emotions, or feel like they run the show? Or maybe you feel disconnected from others? Yet, even in the midst of all that, there’s a part of you longing for something different? Hello and welcome! I work with folks navigating complex trauma, deep emotional pain, and unjust systems. Through the use of collaborative, non-judgmental, and anti-oppressive frameworks, we center your resistance, healing, and self-determination.
(872) 326-4531 View (872) 326-4531
Photo of Stephanie R. Lee, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CCTS-I, CSAC, NATC
Stephanie R. Lee
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CCTS-I, CSAC, NATC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck in toxic patterns or weighed down by trauma? As a therapist specializing in trauma and narcissistic abuse recovery, I help individuals heal from emotional wounds, break toxic patterns, and rediscover their inner strength. I understand that healing from trauma, substance abuse, or narcissistic abuse can be a challenging and overwhelming journey. It can feel isolating, as though the world doesn’t understand your struggles, hear your concerns, or take the time to truly see you. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where shame and confrontation have no place.
Feeling stuck in toxic patterns or weighed down by trauma? As a therapist specializing in trauma and narcissistic abuse recovery, I help individuals heal from emotional wounds, break toxic patterns, and rediscover their inner strength. I understand that healing from trauma, substance abuse, or narcissistic abuse can be a challenging and overwhelming journey. It can feel isolating, as though the world doesn’t understand your struggles, hear your concerns, or take the time to truly see you. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where shame and confrontation have no place.
(210) 934-4602 View (210) 934-4602
Photo of Dian Medrano, Counselor, LCPC
Dian Medrano
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
If you are experiencing hardships in anxiety, depression, trauma, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital issues, communication, and emotional regulation, I work to find both practical and insightful tools to handle an array of conflicts. I will help you navigate your patterns, from a holistic lens, utilize your strengths, and find meaning in the desired change you seek. In each session, You will be provided with a comfortable atmosphere where you can freely feel openness, honesty, and the trust to convey what ails you while receiving guidance and tools.
If you are experiencing hardships in anxiety, depression, trauma, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital issues, communication, and emotional regulation, I work to find both practical and insightful tools to handle an array of conflicts. I will help you navigate your patterns, from a holistic lens, utilize your strengths, and find meaning in the desired change you seek. In each session, You will be provided with a comfortable atmosphere where you can freely feel openness, honesty, and the trust to convey what ails you while receiving guidance and tools.
(630) 931-8008 View (630) 931-8008
Photo of Madison Schieber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Madison Schieber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I make sure your concerns are heard, your strengths are celebrated, and your journey to wellness is guided with compassion and expertise. I believe that by understanding and empathizing with my clients I can create a strong therapeutic relationship that promotes growth & transformation. I understand that everyone has their own unique story and I am committed to listening with compassion and without judgment. With a compassionate and collaborative approach I strive to help my clients overcome their challenges, feel more empowered, and achieve their goals. I believe in using evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT and mindfulness.
I make sure your concerns are heard, your strengths are celebrated, and your journey to wellness is guided with compassion and expertise. I believe that by understanding and empathizing with my clients I can create a strong therapeutic relationship that promotes growth & transformation. I understand that everyone has their own unique story and I am committed to listening with compassion and without judgment. With a compassionate and collaborative approach I strive to help my clients overcome their challenges, feel more empowered, and achieve their goals. I believe in using evidence-based methods such as CBT, DBT and mindfulness.
(872) 246-8322 View (872) 246-8322
Photo of Erica Haynes, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Erica Haynes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
We all deserve to be happy and fulfilled in our relationships. However, healthy and meaningful relationships do not come without work. Whether it is with your intimate partner, friends, family or coworkers, the quality of our relationships has a direct impact on our mental health. I help individuals understand how their past experiences, sometimes traumatic, impact their present struggles related to anxiety, stress or depression, and often interfere with their ability to cultivate and maintain relationship satisfaction.
We all deserve to be happy and fulfilled in our relationships. However, healthy and meaningful relationships do not come without work. Whether it is with your intimate partner, friends, family or coworkers, the quality of our relationships has a direct impact on our mental health. I help individuals understand how their past experiences, sometimes traumatic, impact their present struggles related to anxiety, stress or depression, and often interfere with their ability to cultivate and maintain relationship satisfaction.
(773) 372-1600 View (773) 372-1600
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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.