Therapists in West Beverly, Chicago, IL

Photo of Veronica Diaz, Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Veronica Diaz
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
As a bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Social Worker, I am aware of the impact culture influences in one’s life. In therapy, I strive to create a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental and supportive environment. I tailored my therapeutic approach unique to each person utilizing an eclectic, holistic and trauma-informed approach. I’ve experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjusment difficulties, grief, trauma, etc.
As a bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Social Worker, I am aware of the impact culture influences in one’s life. In therapy, I strive to create a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental and supportive environment. I tailored my therapeutic approach unique to each person utilizing an eclectic, holistic and trauma-informed approach. I’ve experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, adjusment difficulties, grief, trauma, etc.
(773) 869-7199 View (773) 869-7199
Photo of Meghan Kean, Psychologist, PsyD
Meghan Kean
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Reaching out and asking for help is often a brave and difficult first step. There are many reasons why people seek out therapy. I work to create a safe and supportive environment for all of my clients, so that they may begin to explore and understand themselves, their feelings, and their way of relating to others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and a strong therapeutic relationship enables change to happen. I tailor my approach to meet each of my client's unique needs.
Reaching out and asking for help is often a brave and difficult first step. There are many reasons why people seek out therapy. I work to create a safe and supportive environment for all of my clients, so that they may begin to explore and understand themselves, their feelings, and their way of relating to others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and a strong therapeutic relationship enables change to happen. I tailor my approach to meet each of my client's unique needs.
(773) 417-1204 View (773) 417-1204
Photo of Laura Costello, Counselor, LCPC, PEL
Laura Costello
Counselor, LCPC, PEL
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Let's clarify a few things! Often people who experience anxiety, depression and panic attacks feel like they are stuck forever. They have gone through difficult life challenges or tough transitions that are taking a toll on their ability to cope as well as they would like. If you are going through one or more of these challenges, you are not alone. Seeking help through therapy can be the first step to taking back control of your life. I utilize a holistic and engaged style to achieve both comfort and trust, blended with authentic and respectful therapeutic techniques.
Let's clarify a few things! Often people who experience anxiety, depression and panic attacks feel like they are stuck forever. They have gone through difficult life challenges or tough transitions that are taking a toll on their ability to cope as well as they would like. If you are going through one or more of these challenges, you are not alone. Seeking help through therapy can be the first step to taking back control of your life. I utilize a holistic and engaged style to achieve both comfort and trust, blended with authentic and respectful therapeutic techniques.
(773) 207-3093 View (773) 207-3093
Photo of Beatrice Marysia Pacyga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beatrice Marysia Pacyga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Not accepting new clients
If you’re here, you’re probably craving a change. Maybe you’re stuck in a relationship rut, battling body image struggles, or caught in the endless loop of anxiety and self-doubt. Life might feel like a relentless storm, and you’re just trying to stay upright. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone. Let’s work together to break the cycle, rediscover your strength, and build a life that actually feels good to live.
If you’re here, you’re probably craving a change. Maybe you’re stuck in a relationship rut, battling body image struggles, or caught in the endless loop of anxiety and self-doubt. Life might feel like a relentless storm, and you’re just trying to stay upright. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone. Let’s work together to break the cycle, rediscover your strength, and build a life that actually feels good to live.
(773) 915-0395 View (773) 915-0395
Photo of Neah Kearney, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MFT
Neah Kearney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, MFT
1 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
There's never a better time than the present to jumpstart your therapy journey. As a therapist, I understand one of the toughest parts about starting therapy is finding the right fit for a therapist. I work with individuals, couples, and families that struggle with resolving conflict, boundary setting, and interpersonal relationships . I have experience with infidelity, anxiety, grief and loss, Communication issues, adjustment concerns, self-esteem and body image issues.
There's never a better time than the present to jumpstart your therapy journey. As a therapist, I understand one of the toughest parts about starting therapy is finding the right fit for a therapist. I work with individuals, couples, and families that struggle with resolving conflict, boundary setting, and interpersonal relationships . I have experience with infidelity, anxiety, grief and loss, Communication issues, adjustment concerns, self-esteem and body image issues.
(773) 694-9205 x2003 View (773) 694-9205 x2003
Photo of Ana Javier, Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, PATP
Ana Javier
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, PATP
5 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Reaching out for support takes courage, especially during life’s more challenging moments. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling stuck in cycles of anxiety, anger, or sadness that seem impossible to break. Often, they've tried to "push through" on their own, only to find themselves overwhelmed, exhausted, or self-critical. My ideal client is someone who is ready for change, even if they’re unsure where to begin. I’m here to help. Together, we’ll work to understand what’s holding you back and develop new, healthier patterns. Meaningful change is absolutely possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.
Reaching out for support takes courage, especially during life’s more challenging moments. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling stuck in cycles of anxiety, anger, or sadness that seem impossible to break. Often, they've tried to "push through" on their own, only to find themselves overwhelmed, exhausted, or self-critical. My ideal client is someone who is ready for change, even if they’re unsure where to begin. I’m here to help. Together, we’ll work to understand what’s holding you back and develop new, healthier patterns. Meaningful change is absolutely possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.
(773) 825-2149 View (773) 825-2149
Photo of Sarah Forde, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
Sarah Forde
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
3 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
It’s no mistake that you’ve landed here. You deserve to live with more ease, flow, and presence. Maybe you're stuck in cycles of anxiety, perfectionism, or people-pleasing, yearning for purpose and deeper meaning. Maybe you're carrying the weight of grief, navigating life transitions, or managing chronic health challenges. Whatever brings you here, know that growth and transformation is possible. Together, we can explore your wisdom within, uncover patterns holding you back, and help you move toward a life that feels more aligned, authentic, and whole.
It’s no mistake that you’ve landed here. You deserve to live with more ease, flow, and presence. Maybe you're stuck in cycles of anxiety, perfectionism, or people-pleasing, yearning for purpose and deeper meaning. Maybe you're carrying the weight of grief, navigating life transitions, or managing chronic health challenges. Whatever brings you here, know that growth and transformation is possible. Together, we can explore your wisdom within, uncover patterns holding you back, and help you move toward a life that feels more aligned, authentic, and whole.
(630) 489-6250 View (630) 489-6250
Photo of Robert J Gellman - Rob Gellman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Rob Gellman, MS, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
(872) 206-3435 View (872) 206-3435
Photo of Kendreia Redmond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Kendreia Redmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Struggling to communicate with a loved one? Having trouble sleeping? Can’t seem to find the motivation to complete daily tasks? Various challenges in life can lead us to feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or BOTH. Therapy can provide a safe space to process, cope, and heal. In life, we may struggle to see how our environments, upbringing, relationships and lifestyle impact our mental health. While other times, we may lack the appropriate self-tools to change our own dynamics. Therapy empowers us to be more self-aware and protective of our mental wellness.
Struggling to communicate with a loved one? Having trouble sleeping? Can’t seem to find the motivation to complete daily tasks? Various challenges in life can lead us to feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or BOTH. Therapy can provide a safe space to process, cope, and heal. In life, we may struggle to see how our environments, upbringing, relationships and lifestyle impact our mental health. While other times, we may lack the appropriate self-tools to change our own dynamics. Therapy empowers us to be more self-aware and protective of our mental wellness.
(773) 906-7214 View (773) 906-7214
Photo of Danielle Dixon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Danielle Dixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
I am a social work professional who has worked in various administrative and clinical roles. Through my extensive experiences. I have had the privilege of working in varying backgrounds, and communities encompassing individuals facing mental health challenges, trauma, violence/abuse, homelessness and other disparities. Due to my immense compassion for individuals, I find joy in my ability to support them in bettering themselves and their lives. I look forward to working with you and watching you excel on a journey to experience a fulfilled life.
I am a social work professional who has worked in various administrative and clinical roles. Through my extensive experiences. I have had the privilege of working in varying backgrounds, and communities encompassing individuals facing mental health challenges, trauma, violence/abuse, homelessness and other disparities. Due to my immense compassion for individuals, I find joy in my ability to support them in bettering themselves and their lives. I look forward to working with you and watching you excel on a journey to experience a fulfilled life.
(708) 766-7876 View (708) 766-7876
Photo of Kathryn M Conway, Psychologist, PhD
Kathryn M Conway
Psychologist, PhD
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. We all experience stressful or challenging moments in life or face obstacles which may seem insurmountable. During these times, we can benefit from professional support to make important changes in our behaviors and thoughts to help tackle these obstacles. I collaborate well with my clients to provide the skills they need to make their own lives better. By practicing using newly learned skills, clients are empowered and continue to be successful regardless of the new challenges they may face later.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. We all experience stressful or challenging moments in life or face obstacles which may seem insurmountable. During these times, we can benefit from professional support to make important changes in our behaviors and thoughts to help tackle these obstacles. I collaborate well with my clients to provide the skills they need to make their own lives better. By practicing using newly learned skills, clients are empowered and continue to be successful regardless of the new challenges they may face later.
(773) 886-1628 View (773) 886-1628
Photo of Leigh Heckman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Leigh Heckman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Healing trauma isn’t just about talking—it’s about listening to the body and creating space for integration. In our work together, I bring the body into the process, helping you tune into sensations, emotions, and patterns stored in the nervous system. Using body-based techniques alongside traditional talk therapy, we’ll uncover the roots of your struggles and gently build new pathways toward safety and connection.
Healing trauma isn’t just about talking—it’s about listening to the body and creating space for integration. In our work together, I bring the body into the process, helping you tune into sensations, emotions, and patterns stored in the nervous system. Using body-based techniques alongside traditional talk therapy, we’ll uncover the roots of your struggles and gently build new pathways toward safety and connection.
(773) 309-6177 View (773) 309-6177
Photo of Tonia Garnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tonia Garnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Life can be challenging, especially when navigating anxiety, depression, or the aftermath of trauma. I specialize in working with BIPOC women who are struggling with these issues and helping them through life transitions. I believe in starting right where you are—no matter how difficult it may feel. The therapeutic journey is about processing your experiences, learning to self-regulate, and finding new paths to healing.
Life can be challenging, especially when navigating anxiety, depression, or the aftermath of trauma. I specialize in working with BIPOC women who are struggling with these issues and helping them through life transitions. I believe in starting right where you are—no matter how difficult it may feel. The therapeutic journey is about processing your experiences, learning to self-regulate, and finding new paths to healing.
(708) 315-7215 View (708) 315-7215
Photo of Crystal Y Williams - Crystal Y. Williams, LCPC, Counselor, MS, LCPC
Crystal Y. Williams, LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
1 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
I am a caring, insightful and a trained therapist that offers support, motivation, clarity to help you through emotional issues, personal growth, conflictual family dynamics, work challenges, and improve intrapersonal skills. I attempt to provide an accepting, and safe environment for you to freely express yourself. If you are willing to do the work we can help you with depression, anxiety, over thinking, stress, a history of abuse or trauma, grief, and spiritual dilemmas. Also, it is my goal to assist Professionals in sharpening their image and skills. Can you imagine having a better life, if not, call me for an appointment.
I am a caring, insightful and a trained therapist that offers support, motivation, clarity to help you through emotional issues, personal growth, conflictual family dynamics, work challenges, and improve intrapersonal skills. I attempt to provide an accepting, and safe environment for you to freely express yourself. If you are willing to do the work we can help you with depression, anxiety, over thinking, stress, a history of abuse or trauma, grief, and spiritual dilemmas. Also, it is my goal to assist Professionals in sharpening their image and skills. Can you imagine having a better life, if not, call me for an appointment.
(872) 814-7669 View (872) 814-7669
Photo of John Andrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
John Andrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm glad you're here. While it may not be easy to seek help, it's my hope that you will be able to understand your situation better and move towards resolving your difficulties. Please don't wait another day. I want to hear your story. You are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
I'm glad you're here. While it may not be easy to seek help, it's my hope that you will be able to understand your situation better and move towards resolving your difficulties. Please don't wait another day. I want to hear your story. You are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
(708) 512-7784 View (708) 512-7784
Photo of Jacqueline Renee Anderson-Carter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Jacqueline Renee Anderson-Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, and those working to survive and thrive through trauma, depression, anxiety, and other oppressive life events and conditions. I have an affinity for those identifying with issues related to being a woman in a society that has been unkind to women. The people with whom I work want to reach their personal best and feel good about themselves and their lives. They also want to drop the "mask" and live authentically without regret.
I enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, and those working to survive and thrive through trauma, depression, anxiety, and other oppressive life events and conditions. I have an affinity for those identifying with issues related to being a woman in a society that has been unkind to women. The people with whom I work want to reach their personal best and feel good about themselves and their lives. They also want to drop the "mask" and live authentically without regret.
View
Photo of Crystal T Cleggett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Crystal T Cleggett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
Have you ever felt like you're not good enough and you are unable to shake this feeling? Have you felt like most things are unmanageable? Do you feel no one hears or sees you? Are there feelings of anger, or resentment towards yourself or someone else? Are you in a never-ending cycle of worry, guilt, denial, shame or regret? Is it hard for you to be around others without feeling judged or ridiculed? Are you just frustrated with life in general? If you have answered yes to ANY of the above questions, allow me to help you. I provide therapy in an authentic nonjudgmental manner for individuals, couples or families.
Have you ever felt like you're not good enough and you are unable to shake this feeling? Have you felt like most things are unmanageable? Do you feel no one hears or sees you? Are there feelings of anger, or resentment towards yourself or someone else? Are you in a never-ending cycle of worry, guilt, denial, shame or regret? Is it hard for you to be around others without feeling judged or ridiculed? Are you just frustrated with life in general? If you have answered yes to ANY of the above questions, allow me to help you. I provide therapy in an authentic nonjudgmental manner for individuals, couples or families.
(773) 207-4645 View (773) 207-4645
Photo of Fred W Gross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Fred W Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
I am a well-trained, empathic, experienced, research-informed, psychodynamic psychoanalytic therapist. I draw upon various truths, and carefully select what may be most helpful to the needs of each client. I want clients to feel comfortable and informed. I will use metaphor and analogies as appropriate to bring insight and change. Specialties: therapy with trauma victims, adolescents, children, and families; couples with relationship issues; conditions such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, complicated grief/loss, PTSD, stress, and life/job transition issues.
I am a well-trained, empathic, experienced, research-informed, psychodynamic psychoanalytic therapist. I draw upon various truths, and carefully select what may be most helpful to the needs of each client. I want clients to feel comfortable and informed. I will use metaphor and analogies as appropriate to bring insight and change. Specialties: therapy with trauma victims, adolescents, children, and families; couples with relationship issues; conditions such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, complicated grief/loss, PTSD, stress, and life/job transition issues.
(773) 906-4430 View (773) 906-4430
Photo of Jodi A. Bova, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Jodi A. Bova
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Online Only
I understand the vulnerabilities that come with seeking psychological services. I believe that within a safe, supportive, educational and reciprocal environment we can learn new and effective coping skills. Together we will explore identified problems/challenges and work towards finding coping strategies that are a good fit for you.
I understand the vulnerabilities that come with seeking psychological services. I believe that within a safe, supportive, educational and reciprocal environment we can learn new and effective coping skills. Together we will explore identified problems/challenges and work towards finding coping strategies that are a good fit for you.
(312) 379-8781 View (312) 379-8781
Photo of Elizabeth Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Elizabeth Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
West Beverly, Chicago, IL 60643
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Social Worker serving young people and adults who want to start their process of learning how to care for their emotional well-being and healing. I have experience with people working through depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief, sex & intimacy, trauma, anxiety, adjustment disorders, divorce, domestic violence, immigration, life transitions, peer relationships, relationship issues, self esteem, and stress.
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Social Worker serving young people and adults who want to start their process of learning how to care for their emotional well-being and healing. I have experience with people working through depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief, sex & intimacy, trauma, anxiety, adjustment disorders, divorce, domestic violence, immigration, life transitions, peer relationships, relationship issues, self esteem, and stress.
(773) 985-7002 View (773) 985-7002
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Beverly, Chicago, IL

30+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in West Beverly, Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
86% Depression
83% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
69% Grief
69% Women's Issues
69% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in West Beverly, Chicago, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in West Beverly, 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.