Therapists in Andersonville, Chicago, IL

Photo of Katie Alrutz, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Katie Alrutz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
My name is Katie, and I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and religious trauma. I primarily work with young adults experiencing anxiety or depression in the midst of major life transitions such as beginning college, leaving home, or starting a career. Depression or anxiety can result in low motivation, restlessness, and emotional overwhelm that can quickly become debilitating. I also assist people of all ages in processing traumatic religious experiences and environments. These experiences can have a variety of symptoms, but have a deep and long lasting impact.
My name is Katie, and I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and religious trauma. I primarily work with young adults experiencing anxiety or depression in the midst of major life transitions such as beginning college, leaving home, or starting a career. Depression or anxiety can result in low motivation, restlessness, and emotional overwhelm that can quickly become debilitating. I also assist people of all ages in processing traumatic religious experiences and environments. These experiences can have a variety of symptoms, but have a deep and long lasting impact.
(312) 940-3014 View (312) 940-3014
Photo of Margot Beth Duxler, Psychologist, PhD
Margot Beth Duxler
Psychologist, PhD
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60660
As a licensed clinical psychologist I treat people with a broad spectrum of issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relational problems, trauma and PTSD, grieving and loss, and eating disorders. I believe that people who are in emotional pain have made choices and decisions based on what they believed to be the best options available to them at the time. My collaboration with patients focuses on discovering and creating greater and more adaptive options than they previously thought possible.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I treat people with a broad spectrum of issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relational problems, trauma and PTSD, grieving and loss, and eating disorders. I believe that people who are in emotional pain have made choices and decisions based on what they believed to be the best options available to them at the time. My collaboration with patients focuses on discovering and creating greater and more adaptive options than they previously thought possible.
(415) 237-6132 View (415) 237-6132
Photo of Brittany Trauthwein, Psychologist, PsyD, FT
Brittany Trauthwein
Psychologist, PsyD, FT
3 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Bridgepoint Psychology Center and work with adults, children, and adolescents. I am honored to journey with you through challenging life transitions. My work is grounded in existential therapy, however I draw from narrative, trauma-informed, and grief focused therapies to meet the individual and unique needs of the clients in my care. Whether I am working with an adult or a child, I believe therapy should be transparent, genuine, and always collaborative. Pronouns (She/Her/Hers)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Bridgepoint Psychology Center and work with adults, children, and adolescents. I am honored to journey with you through challenging life transitions. My work is grounded in existential therapy, however I draw from narrative, trauma-informed, and grief focused therapies to meet the individual and unique needs of the clients in my care. Whether I am working with an adult or a child, I believe therapy should be transparent, genuine, and always collaborative. Pronouns (She/Her/Hers)
(773) 349-2466 View (773) 349-2466
Photo of Mandala Counseling - Mandala Counseling & Psychological, Psychologist, PhD, LCPC
Mandala Counseling & Psychological
Psychologist, PhD, LCPC
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
Starting therapy is a very personal decision and connecting with your therapist is the cornerstone to the work you will engage in. Mandala Counseling and Psychological Services is a group practice of independent clinicians in Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago. Each clinician works with individuals, ranging from adolescents to adults. Clinicians at Mandala are adaptive in style of psychotherapy to meet the varying needs of clients. Clinicians are comfortable utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing skills and other evidence-based therapeutic orientations.
Starting therapy is a very personal decision and connecting with your therapist is the cornerstone to the work you will engage in. Mandala Counseling and Psychological Services is a group practice of independent clinicians in Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago. Each clinician works with individuals, ranging from adolescents to adults. Clinicians at Mandala are adaptive in style of psychotherapy to meet the varying needs of clients. Clinicians are comfortable utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing skills and other evidence-based therapeutic orientations.
(773) 492-8638 View (773) 492-8638
Photo of Elnaz Seylaby, Psychologist, PsyD
Elnaz Seylaby
Psychologist, PsyD
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
Does it feel like something is missing in your life, but you can’t put your finger on what? Perhaps you’re noticing this in your relationships—having a hard time maintaining friendships or romantic relationships that feel meaningful, or feeling like you’re “alone,” despite being together. Perhaps, you feel like even the people closest to you don’t truly understand you. Our past experiences shape how we see ourselves and how we see the world. If you have experienced traumatic events in life this is especially true.
Does it feel like something is missing in your life, but you can’t put your finger on what? Perhaps you’re noticing this in your relationships—having a hard time maintaining friendships or romantic relationships that feel meaningful, or feeling like you’re “alone,” despite being together. Perhaps, you feel like even the people closest to you don’t truly understand you. Our past experiences shape how we see ourselves and how we see the world. If you have experienced traumatic events in life this is especially true.
(872) 246-9926 View (872) 246-9926
Photo of Rebecca Pope, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rebecca Pope
Pre-Licensed Professional
3 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
As a relational therapist, I offer a calm and non-judgmental space for you to discern and reconnect with yourself and your relationships. I bring my whole self—as a white, queer woman, wife, daughter/sister, entrepreneur, and clinician—into this work, contributing to how I connect with and support individuals, couples, and families who are navigating a wide range of relationship and life dynamics. Clinical topics include partnerships (premarital, discernment, polycules/E(C)NM, sex, conflict (Gottman Lvl3), life transitions, family dynamics, AFAB/women's issues, hoarding, self-esteem, and identity development.
As a relational therapist, I offer a calm and non-judgmental space for you to discern and reconnect with yourself and your relationships. I bring my whole self—as a white, queer woman, wife, daughter/sister, entrepreneur, and clinician—into this work, contributing to how I connect with and support individuals, couples, and families who are navigating a wide range of relationship and life dynamics. Clinical topics include partnerships (premarital, discernment, polycules/E(C)NM, sex, conflict (Gottman Lvl3), life transitions, family dynamics, AFAB/women's issues, hoarding, self-esteem, and identity development.
(872) 314-3618 x554 View (872) 314-3618 x554
Photo of Laurie M. Hanson - Laurie M. Hanson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Laurie M. Hanson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
8 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
Growth is never by chance; it is the outcome of people working together. Are you ready to take that step toward your personal goals? Whether you’re looking to reduce anxiety, improve relationships, or feel more balanced in your daily life, I’m here to help.
Growth is never by chance; it is the outcome of people working together. Are you ready to take that step toward your personal goals? Whether you’re looking to reduce anxiety, improve relationships, or feel more balanced in your daily life, I’m here to help.
(872) 210-5521 View (872) 210-5521
Photo of John Samuel Milstone, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Samuel Milstone
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
(773) 902-0484 View (773) 902-0484
Photo of Abner Clark, Pre-Licensed Professional
Abner Clark
Pre-Licensed Professional
4 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
You’re navigating relationships, sexuality, or desire in ways that don’t fit the societal script and you want a therapist who understands without pathologizing. Whether you’re exploring kink/BDSM, non-monogamy/polyamory, queer identity, sex work, or feeling stuck in desire discrepancy or sexual shame, you deserve nuanced, informed support. I bring both lived experience and formal training (Adler University’s Sex Therapy Certificate) to this work. More importantly, I provide a grounded, direct, and affirming space where your sexuality and relationships are treated as complex, meaningful parts of your life, not problems to fix.
You’re navigating relationships, sexuality, or desire in ways that don’t fit the societal script and you want a therapist who understands without pathologizing. Whether you’re exploring kink/BDSM, non-monogamy/polyamory, queer identity, sex work, or feeling stuck in desire discrepancy or sexual shame, you deserve nuanced, informed support. I bring both lived experience and formal training (Adler University’s Sex Therapy Certificate) to this work. More importantly, I provide a grounded, direct, and affirming space where your sexuality and relationships are treated as complex, meaningful parts of your life, not problems to fix.
(872) 335-4331 View (872) 335-4331
Photo of Lilah Ravinuthala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Lilah Ravinuthala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
1 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
I am a queer South Asian therapist who is focused on creating an authentic space for you to heal and grow.  As a second-generation immigrant, I understand the stigma and trepidation that comes with getting mental healthcare. I strive to create a space where you can be seen and heard without judgment. Together, we will work to identify challenges related to trauma, cultural background, depression, anxiety, and lack of fulfillment in your life.
I am a queer South Asian therapist who is focused on creating an authentic space for you to heal and grow.  As a second-generation immigrant, I understand the stigma and trepidation that comes with getting mental healthcare. I strive to create a space where you can be seen and heard without judgment. Together, we will work to identify challenges related to trauma, cultural background, depression, anxiety, and lack of fulfillment in your life.
(773) 867-5975 View (773) 867-5975
Photo of Sami Lare, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Sami Lare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
I support queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent individuals, and trauma survivors in exploring their identities and relationships. I also specialize in religious trauma and with folks moving to Chicago from the South. My work focuses on building resilience, healing, and a sense of belonging, while addressing challenges like attachment issues, anxiety, depression, self harm, suicidal ideation, negative self-talk, and grief. I create a supportive space for growth, helping clients cope with the stress of today’s political climate and empowering them to find strength in their communities and embrace their authentic selves.
I support queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent individuals, and trauma survivors in exploring their identities and relationships. I also specialize in religious trauma and with folks moving to Chicago from the South. My work focuses on building resilience, healing, and a sense of belonging, while addressing challenges like attachment issues, anxiety, depression, self harm, suicidal ideation, negative self-talk, and grief. I create a supportive space for growth, helping clients cope with the stress of today’s political climate and empowering them to find strength in their communities and embrace their authentic selves.
(872) 259-6160 View (872) 259-6160
Photo of Fae Rose Kobernik, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Fae Rose Kobernik
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
2 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
I enjoy working with clients of all ages from all backgrounds. I’m passionate about providing representative care, especially for LGBTQIA+ folks, those navigating chronic illness or disability, and anyone experiencing a major life transition or shift in identity.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages from all backgrounds. I’m passionate about providing representative care, especially for LGBTQIA+ folks, those navigating chronic illness or disability, and anyone experiencing a major life transition or shift in identity.
(872) 246-9724 View (872) 246-9724
Photo of Alexa Nutt, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Alexa Nutt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60660
Did you know that members of the LGBTQ+ community experience mental illness at higher rates than their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts? It’s not because being queer makes you predisposed to poor mental health, but because the adversity and prejudice experienced by marginalized populations can take such a toll on one’s mind. I want to provide a safe space to process trauma and stress that may be linked to living in a society that’s becoming increasingly hostile to those who have been “othered” by those in power.
Did you know that members of the LGBTQ+ community experience mental illness at higher rates than their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts? It’s not because being queer makes you predisposed to poor mental health, but because the adversity and prejudice experienced by marginalized populations can take such a toll on one’s mind. I want to provide a safe space to process trauma and stress that may be linked to living in a society that’s becoming increasingly hostile to those who have been “othered” by those in power.
(872) 349-3960 View (872) 349-3960
Photo of Dave Howser, Counselor, MDiv, LCPC
Dave Howser
Counselor, MDiv, LCPC
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
For over 30 years, I have accompanied others on their journey towards greater self-awareness, more fulfilling relationships, and exploring the needs and challenges of maintaining sound emotional, physical and spiritual health. My experience is particularly helpful when working on self-esteem issues, depression, grief and loss, relationship struggles, and faith and spiritual development. My clinical work draws upon skills developed while working as a hospital chaplain, pastoral counselor, bereavement counselor, youth counselor and a mental health therapist in a social service agency.
For over 30 years, I have accompanied others on their journey towards greater self-awareness, more fulfilling relationships, and exploring the needs and challenges of maintaining sound emotional, physical and spiritual health. My experience is particularly helpful when working on self-esteem issues, depression, grief and loss, relationship struggles, and faith and spiritual development. My clinical work draws upon skills developed while working as a hospital chaplain, pastoral counselor, bereavement counselor, youth counselor and a mental health therapist in a social service agency.
(773) 450-3395 View (773) 450-3395
Photo of Lindsay L Doyle, Psychologist, PsyD
Lindsay L Doyle
Psychologist, PsyD
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
Welcome! I'm Dr. Doyle, I work with adolescents & adults in the Chicagoland area. I view therapy as a unique opportunity for individuals to access their own resilience and develop increasingly satisfying relationships with themselves, their past experiences, their personal potentials, and others in their life and community. I believe a trusting, authentic relationship built on a holistic appreciation of each unique person is essential to therapeutic growth. Accordingly, I use an integrated approach to therapy that is individualized, strength-based, and collaborative. You'll find me to be warm, engaged, and challenging as needed.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Doyle, I work with adolescents & adults in the Chicagoland area. I view therapy as a unique opportunity for individuals to access their own resilience and develop increasingly satisfying relationships with themselves, their past experiences, their personal potentials, and others in their life and community. I believe a trusting, authentic relationship built on a holistic appreciation of each unique person is essential to therapeutic growth. Accordingly, I use an integrated approach to therapy that is individualized, strength-based, and collaborative. You'll find me to be warm, engaged, and challenging as needed.
(908) 280-0433 View (908) 280-0433
Photo of Iggy V Ladden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, RYT
Iggy V Ladden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, RYT
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
(331) 442-4449 View (331) 442-4449
Photo of Sheila D Hanrahan, Counselor, MSW, LCPC
Sheila D Hanrahan
Counselor, MSW, LCPC
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
Having more than 25-years experience with issues most often brought to therapy, I see our work together as a healing process and sacred journey of the soul with my role being guide, witness and companion on the path towards wholeness, self-empowerment and self-realization. It's often a journey into the unconscious using dreams and one's creative process. This brings a deep commitment to my own growth as well. Beginning in the addictions field and continually striving to deepen my knowledge of the alchemy of healing I am also a Jungian analyst.
Having more than 25-years experience with issues most often brought to therapy, I see our work together as a healing process and sacred journey of the soul with my role being guide, witness and companion on the path towards wholeness, self-empowerment and self-realization. It's often a journey into the unconscious using dreams and one's creative process. This brings a deep commitment to my own growth as well. Beginning in the addictions field and continually striving to deepen my knowledge of the alchemy of healing I am also a Jungian analyst.
(773) 497-2324 View (773) 497-2324
Photo of Ryan Womack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Ryan Womack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
1 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
I offer a space where your full, complicated self is welcomed—not judged. I know how hard it can be to ask for help, especially when you’ve spent your life navigating systems that weren’t built with you in mind. As a queer, Black, kink-aware, neurodivergent therapist, I offer a space where your complexity is seen—not pathologized. Whether you're dealing with substance use, mental health challenges, trauma, or identity questions, I’m here to help you make sense of a senseless world and meet the version of yourself you're ready to become.
I offer a space where your full, complicated self is welcomed—not judged. I know how hard it can be to ask for help, especially when you’ve spent your life navigating systems that weren’t built with you in mind. As a queer, Black, kink-aware, neurodivergent therapist, I offer a space where your complexity is seen—not pathologized. Whether you're dealing with substance use, mental health challenges, trauma, or identity questions, I’m here to help you make sense of a senseless world and meet the version of yourself you're ready to become.
(872) 242-1210 View (872) 242-1210
Photo of Albe Gutierrez, Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, BFA
Albe Gutierrez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, BFA
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
(773) 694-8550 View (773) 694-8550
Photo of Jeff Zacharias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Jeff Zacharias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Andersonville, Chicago, IL 60640
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
(773) 295-7727 View (773) 295-7727

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Andersonville, Chicago, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$177

Therapists in Andersonville, Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress
64% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Aetna
43% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Andersonville, Chicago, IL see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

54% Female
31% Male
15% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Andersonville?

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.