Therapists in Washington Heights, Chicago, IL

Photo of Renee Dickerson, Counselor, PhD , LCPC, CADC
Renee Dickerson
Counselor, PhD , LCPC, CADC
2 Endorsed
Washington Heights, Chicago, IL 60643
Helping Veterans, First Responders, and Professionals Heal from Invisible Wounds. Are you carrying the weight of trauma from your service or profession? Is it affecting those who care about you the most? Do you find yourself pushing through, even when you’re running on empty? Many people feel stuck or overwhelmed, unsure why they react the way they do. If you’re wondering whether your past still shapes your present, let’s talk. I assist professionals affected by trauma in their line of duty. Together, we explore how trauma has impacted them mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Helping Veterans, First Responders, and Professionals Heal from Invisible Wounds. Are you carrying the weight of trauma from your service or profession? Is it affecting those who care about you the most? Do you find yourself pushing through, even when you’re running on empty? Many people feel stuck or overwhelmed, unsure why they react the way they do. If you’re wondering whether your past still shapes your present, let’s talk. I assist professionals affected by trauma in their line of duty. Together, we explore how trauma has impacted them mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
(708) 726-4039 View (708) 726-4039
Photo of Dr. Tiffany C. Brown - Family First Domestic & Family Counseling Clinic, Psychologist, PsyD, CAMS-II
Family First Domestic & Family Counseling Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD, CAMS-II
1 Endorsed
Washington Heights, 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 Jennifer L Young-Afeni, Counselor, LCPC
Jennifer L Young-Afeni
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
At Reflections Therapeutic Services, we focus on personalized, evidenced-based practices to guide you through your life's challenges and foster personal growth in a safe compassionate environment. I am accepting new clients who are looking for a therapist using a person-centered approach to develop a therapeutic relationship that would allow clients to feel safe in developing their own personalized treatment goals to facilitate change. I have experience with treating adults, adolescents, and children between 7-12 years of age.
At Reflections Therapeutic Services, we focus on personalized, evidenced-based practices to guide you through your life's challenges and foster personal growth in a safe compassionate environment. I am accepting new clients who are looking for a therapist using a person-centered approach to develop a therapeutic relationship that would allow clients to feel safe in developing their own personalized treatment goals to facilitate change. I have experience with treating adults, adolescents, and children between 7-12 years of age.
(872) 360-1928 View (872) 360-1928
Photo of Rev. Dr. Jasclyn Coney, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, DMin
Rev. Dr. Jasclyn Coney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, DMin
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.
(773) 345-9590 View (773) 345-9590
Photo of Akisha M Russell - The Answer Within Counseling Services , Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
The Answer Within Counseling Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
You've spent so much time showing up for everyone else that you've forgotten what it feels like to show up for yourself. If you're overwhelmed by anxiety, relationships, stress, or a life transition, you're in the right place. At The Answer Within Counseling Services, I believe the answers you're searching for are already within you. My job is to ask the questions that help you uncover them. Therapy with me feels like a real conversation—one where you'll laugh, reflect, feel challenged, and leave with greater clarity, confidence, and hope.
You've spent so much time showing up for everyone else that you've forgotten what it feels like to show up for yourself. If you're overwhelmed by anxiety, relationships, stress, or a life transition, you're in the right place. At The Answer Within Counseling Services, I believe the answers you're searching for are already within you. My job is to ask the questions that help you uncover them. Therapy with me feels like a real conversation—one where you'll laugh, reflect, feel challenged, and leave with greater clarity, confidence, and hope.
(872) 266-3116 View (872) 266-3116
Photo of Candace Kyles, Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Candace Kyles
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Online Only
Whether you’re navigating a difficult season or simply looking to reconnect with your best self, you deserve a space where you are truly seen and heard. I am committed to providing a safe space, where you can explore your thoughts, supported by an empathetic ear and a genuine partnership. Together, we will embrace a growth mindset, transforming challenges into opportunities for resilience and lasting change. I’m not here to tell you what to do—I’m here to hold space as you recognize your own ability to create a life of joy and purpose.
Whether you’re navigating a difficult season or simply looking to reconnect with your best self, you deserve a space where you are truly seen and heard. I am committed to providing a safe space, where you can explore your thoughts, supported by an empathetic ear and a genuine partnership. Together, we will embrace a growth mindset, transforming challenges into opportunities for resilience and lasting change. I’m not here to tell you what to do—I’m here to hold space as you recognize your own ability to create a life of joy and purpose.
(872) 274-4906 View (872) 274-4906
Photo of Bridgette Poston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridgette Poston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I offer a warm, collaborative, and client-centered style. In our sessions clients can expect to feel heard and understood. I bring a depth of experience as I have over 40 years of clinical experience. I have supported clients through a wide range of challenges and life transitions. I not only help clients process emotions and gain clarity, but also support them in building confidence, setting achievable goals, and moving forward with purpose.
I offer a warm, collaborative, and client-centered style. In our sessions clients can expect to feel heard and understood. I bring a depth of experience as I have over 40 years of clinical experience. I have supported clients through a wide range of challenges and life transitions. I not only help clients process emotions and gain clarity, but also support them in building confidence, setting achievable goals, and moving forward with purpose.
(872) 484-1939 View (872) 484-1939
Photo of Dominique S Russell - Dominique S Russell | Holy Spirit-Led Counseling, Counselor, LCPC, LMHC TH
Dominique S Russell | Holy Spirit-Led Counseling
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC TH
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Christian woman, you probably wear many hats. Maybe you're a mother, a wife, a minister, a business owner, new to faith. You hold yourself and everyone together while trying to hold on to God, but you've reached a point where you feel like you're barely hanging on. You're praying to God but feel like He doesn't always hear you and wonder if your prayers are even worth it. You may not admit this to others, but sometimes you feel like you're going crazy with the thoughts and fears that constantly plague you. But... you haven't given up hope because you're reading mine and others' profiles right now looking for answers. Good Job!
As a Christian woman, you probably wear many hats. Maybe you're a mother, a wife, a minister, a business owner, new to faith. You hold yourself and everyone together while trying to hold on to God, but you've reached a point where you feel like you're barely hanging on. You're praying to God but feel like He doesn't always hear you and wonder if your prayers are even worth it. You may not admit this to others, but sometimes you feel like you're going crazy with the thoughts and fears that constantly plague you. But... you haven't given up hope because you're reading mine and others' profiles right now looking for answers. Good Job!
(754) 254-0379 View (754) 254-0379
Photo of Amber Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amber Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Becoming a parent is a scary and sometimes lonely journey. You may feel disconnected from your partner, baby, or friends. Or struggle with finding the balance between caring for yourself and those who need you. If the journey into parenthood has left you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or uncertain about who you are now you deserve a safe space to learn how to prioritize yourself. We all need help at times, but may find it hard to ask for it. It is okay to put YOU first. It is possible to take care of you and still care for others too!
Becoming a parent is a scary and sometimes lonely journey. You may feel disconnected from your partner, baby, or friends. Or struggle with finding the balance between caring for yourself and those who need you. If the journey into parenthood has left you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or uncertain about who you are now you deserve a safe space to learn how to prioritize yourself. We all need help at times, but may find it hard to ask for it. It is okay to put YOU first. It is possible to take care of you and still care for others too!
(217) 262-1319 View (217) 262-1319
Photo of Rayeshundra Henderson, Counselor, LCPC, MA
Rayeshundra Henderson
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Online Only
In life, there's not always a "right place right time" but rather a "I'm making this the right place and time." Life is all about decisions good or bad, but how you deal with the outcome is up to you. I believe in helping people reach their best outcome despite the circumstances. Life can be difficult, and when you are unsure how to navigate it, things can add up quickly. For the past 10 years, I have worked with troubled teens assisting them in transforming their life for the better. I have had experience working with adults in different areas of depression and anxiety, and have helped them discover the light they were missing.
In life, there's not always a "right place right time" but rather a "I'm making this the right place and time." Life is all about decisions good or bad, but how you deal with the outcome is up to you. I believe in helping people reach their best outcome despite the circumstances. Life can be difficult, and when you are unsure how to navigate it, things can add up quickly. For the past 10 years, I have worked with troubled teens assisting them in transforming their life for the better. I have had experience working with adults in different areas of depression and anxiety, and have helped them discover the light they were missing.
(331) 999-6141 View (331) 999-6141

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Dawn Paquelet, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Dawn Paquelet
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Chicago, IL 60602
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of life. I have a warm, collaborative approach to therapy that is grounded in evidence-based practices. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, life transitions, grief, and terminal illness. I also enjoy supporting caregivers as they navigate the emotional, relational, and practical challenges of caring for a loved one with a serious or chronic illness.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of life. I have a warm, collaborative approach to therapy that is grounded in evidence-based practices. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, life transitions, grief, and terminal illness. I also enjoy supporting caregivers as they navigate the emotional, relational, and practical challenges of caring for a loved one with a serious or chronic illness.
(312) 313-1805 View (312) 313-1805
Photo of Elaine Hall - Chicagoland Professional Therapy Group, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicagoland Professional Therapy Group, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60618
We want our clients to walk away from therapeutic sessions feeling empowered from the positive impacts they are creating for themselves in therapy. Our group practice provides evidence-based therapy in the Chicago area, and online to clients throughout Illinois. Envision yourself in the future with less stress, fewer overwhelming feelings, and better control of your emotions. Your mental wellness is important to us, and you are not in this on your own.
We want our clients to walk away from therapeutic sessions feeling empowered from the positive impacts they are creating for themselves in therapy. Our group practice provides evidence-based therapy in the Chicago area, and online to clients throughout Illinois. Envision yourself in the future with less stress, fewer overwhelming feelings, and better control of your emotions. Your mental wellness is important to us, and you are not in this on your own.
(773) 309-6694 View (773) 309-6694
Photo of Katie Feyh, Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Katie Feyh
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Chicago, IL 60647
Hi! I'm Katie, I work at Chicago Therapy Collective in Chicago. None of us exists in a vacuum. We exist in relationships with families of origin, kin of choice, partners, co-workers, communities, and systems, each of which can be sources of nourishment or harm, helpful or less-helpful habits, and affirming or invalidating perspectives. Healing from trauma requires us to explore our own identities and relationship experiences so that we can find our own way towards a life of meaning, lived as our authentic selves. We are more than our hurts, symptoms, and social positions. Our motivations and desires change throughout our lives.
Hi! I'm Katie, I work at Chicago Therapy Collective in Chicago. None of us exists in a vacuum. We exist in relationships with families of origin, kin of choice, partners, co-workers, communities, and systems, each of which can be sources of nourishment or harm, helpful or less-helpful habits, and affirming or invalidating perspectives. Healing from trauma requires us to explore our own identities and relationship experiences so that we can find our own way towards a life of meaning, lived as our authentic selves. We are more than our hurts, symptoms, and social positions. Our motivations and desires change throughout our lives.
(872) 309-3657 View (872) 309-3657
Photo of Kaye Ferreria-Fong, Counselor, LCPC
Kaye Ferreria-Fong
Counselor, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60646
As a first generation Filipina immigrant, I understand the complexities of growing up between cultures and the impact this can have on identity, relationships, and well-being. I'm deeply passionate about working with BIPOC & AANHPI communities and bring years of experience supporting individuals navigating intergenerational trauma, religious and spiritual abuse, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, & complicated grief. I believe in meeting clients where they are while also gently challenging them to foster insight, growth, and creating meaningful change.
As a first generation Filipina immigrant, I understand the complexities of growing up between cultures and the impact this can have on identity, relationships, and well-being. I'm deeply passionate about working with BIPOC & AANHPI communities and bring years of experience supporting individuals navigating intergenerational trauma, religious and spiritual abuse, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, & complicated grief. I believe in meeting clients where they are while also gently challenging them to foster insight, growth, and creating meaningful change.
(773) 364-6038 View (773) 364-6038
Photo of Dr. Brittney Jones, Psychologist, PsyD, DBSM
Dr. Brittney Jones
Psychologist, PsyD, DBSM
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
I'm a Harvard and Stanford-trained psychologist who helps people with anxiety stop pushing through stress and burnout and live more. Are you so good at pushing through problems that no one notices how much you're struggling? If nothing changed, life would be just plain overwhelming...feeling lost and trapped... and suffocated. It’s miserable feeling like anxiety is taking over, interfering with relationships, work, and feeling just burned out. If you’re here, you can likely relate. We'll work together to create a life you don't dread. Follow me on Instagram - sitwithdrbrit for relatable mental health content.
I'm a Harvard and Stanford-trained psychologist who helps people with anxiety stop pushing through stress and burnout and live more. Are you so good at pushing through problems that no one notices how much you're struggling? If nothing changed, life would be just plain overwhelming...feeling lost and trapped... and suffocated. It’s miserable feeling like anxiety is taking over, interfering with relationships, work, and feeling just burned out. If you’re here, you can likely relate. We'll work together to create a life you don't dread. Follow me on Instagram - sitwithdrbrit for relatable mental health content.
View
Photo of Khaliah R Marsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Khaliah R Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60638
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults in managing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and relationship challenges. I earned my MSW from Loyola University Chicago in 2018 and tailor therapy to meet each client’s unique needs, goals, and pace. I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and expressive therapies to create a safe, supportive space. My goal is to empower clients to build resilience, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful improvements in their overall well-being.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults in managing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and relationship challenges. I earned my MSW from Loyola University Chicago in 2018 and tailor therapy to meet each client’s unique needs, goals, and pace. I draw from CBT, DBT, ACT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and expressive therapies to create a safe, supportive space. My goal is to empower clients to build resilience, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful improvements in their overall well-being.
(708) 554-4383 View (708) 554-4383
Photo of Diana Castañeda, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Diana Castañeda
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
As a licensed clinical professional counselor with over a decade of experience providing therapy and leadership in clinical settings, I have seen first-hand that the therapy experience is as diverse as the human experience. The exploration, acceptance, and integration of all parts of ourselves is difficult and a long process for those that are ready to pursue it. The payoff is the comfort that comes with knowing that your decisions and life are your own, not the work of lingering ghosts and dynamics we cannot yet see.
As a licensed clinical professional counselor with over a decade of experience providing therapy and leadership in clinical settings, I have seen first-hand that the therapy experience is as diverse as the human experience. The exploration, acceptance, and integration of all parts of ourselves is difficult and a long process for those that are ready to pursue it. The payoff is the comfort that comes with knowing that your decisions and life are your own, not the work of lingering ghosts and dynamics we cannot yet see.
(773) 536-9255 View (773) 536-9255
Photo of Matt Cavanaugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Matt Cavanaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60622
Folks enter into therapy to examine the internal and external barriers that keep them from cultivating the kind of life they want to lead. Working with a therapist can help you not only recognize the way these barriers impact your life, but help you break through them by utilizing many of the skills and strengths you already possess. Together, we’ll also work to build bridges leading to new skills and strengths, guiding you to the kind of life you truly want to live. My main focus is on creating a safe, supportive and trusting environment where clients can share their story and know that it will be received with positive regard.
Folks enter into therapy to examine the internal and external barriers that keep them from cultivating the kind of life they want to lead. Working with a therapist can help you not only recognize the way these barriers impact your life, but help you break through them by utilizing many of the skills and strengths you already possess. Together, we’ll also work to build bridges leading to new skills and strengths, guiding you to the kind of life you truly want to live. My main focus is on creating a safe, supportive and trusting environment where clients can share their story and know that it will be received with positive regard.
(773) 570-7147 View (773) 570-7147
Photo of Sarah E Sanders, Psychologist, PsyD
Sarah E Sanders
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Dr. Sarah Sanders is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and life transition issues. Dr. Sanders individualizes her treatment approach to the specific needs of each client, often combining dynamic-relational, cognitive-dialectical-behavioral, and systemic-cultural approaches. Her priority is helping you work through your concerns and make changes in your life in a way that feels effective, collaborative, and nonjudgmental.
Dr. Sarah Sanders is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and life transition issues. Dr. Sanders individualizes her treatment approach to the specific needs of each client, often combining dynamic-relational, cognitive-dialectical-behavioral, and systemic-cultural approaches. Her priority is helping you work through your concerns and make changes in your life in a way that feels effective, collaborative, and nonjudgmental.
(847) 305-3376 View (847) 305-3376
Photo of Larry Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Larry Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
You can look strong on the outside and still feel like you are barely holding it together. You get used to surviving, pushing through, and telling yourself you are fine, until one day, you are not. If you are tired of carrying it all alone, you are in the right plac
You can look strong on the outside and still feel like you are barely holding it together. You get used to surviving, pushing through, and telling yourself you are fine, until one day, you are not. If you are tired of carrying it all alone, you are in the right plac
(872) 713-6757 View (872) 713-6757

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Washington Heights, Chicago, IL

10+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Washington Heights, Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
70% Anxiety
70% Grief
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
70% Social Anxiety
70% Complex PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Washington Heights, Chicago, IL see their clients

80% Online Only
20% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Washington Heights?

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.