Therapists in Geneseo, IL

Photo of Sacha Montgomery, LPCC, Counselor
Sacha Montgomery
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Geneseo, IL 61254
Sacha L. Montgomery, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), Certified- Dialectical Behavior Therapy Provider (Trauma Specific treatment) Approach to therapy: Collaborative approach with each client to create personalized treatment plan to help clients get back to a higher level of functioning. Focus areas of practice: Co-Occurring Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Relationship conflict, Communication, work issues, change of life issues as well as adults and juveniles who have abusive sexual behavior histories.
Sacha L. Montgomery, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), Certified- Dialectical Behavior Therapy Provider (Trauma Specific treatment) Approach to therapy: Collaborative approach with each client to create personalized treatment plan to help clients get back to a higher level of functioning. Focus areas of practice: Co-Occurring Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Relationship conflict, Communication, work issues, change of life issues as well as adults and juveniles who have abusive sexual behavior histories.
(708) 847-9636 View (708) 847-9636
Photo of Carolyn Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Geneseo, IL 61254
I am Carolyn Franklin, a licensed clinical social worker. I am a skilled therapist with over 30 years in the profession, working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have conducted individual, group, couples, and family therapies. I have worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issue, and many other concerns. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I truly enjoy my work, and my clients have been successful. I worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family adjustments, and even individuals having difficulty making decisions.
I am Carolyn Franklin, a licensed clinical social worker. I am a skilled therapist with over 30 years in the profession, working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have conducted individual, group, couples, and family therapies. I have worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issue, and many other concerns. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I truly enjoy my work, and my clients have been successful. I worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family adjustments, and even individuals having difficulty making decisions.
(773) 985-7436 View (773) 985-7436
Photo of Pamela Long, ACSW, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Geneseo, IL 61254
I provide a safe, confidential, and accepting space where you can tell your story. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, phase of life and relationship issues, addiction and recovery, and trauma.
I provide a safe, confidential, and accepting space where you can tell your story. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, phase of life and relationship issues, addiction and recovery, and trauma.
(563) 500-2058 View (563) 500-2058
Photo of Ali Brown, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Ali Brown
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneseo, IL 61254
Have you ever wondered why some memories linger while others fade? I recognize that trauma can profoundly impact mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. As a dedicated counselor, I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma and those currently navigating anxiety, depression, and stress. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to fostering resilience and healing. Together, our goal is to cultivate strengths and to move beyond surviving, to flourishing. I am dedicated to helping clients gain relief from symptoms and improve quality of life.
Have you ever wondered why some memories linger while others fade? I recognize that trauma can profoundly impact mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. As a dedicated counselor, I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma and those currently navigating anxiety, depression, and stress. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to fostering resilience and healing. Together, our goal is to cultivate strengths and to move beyond surviving, to flourishing. I am dedicated to helping clients gain relief from symptoms and improve quality of life.
(309) 498-0633 View (309) 498-0633

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amber Beal, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Beal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Colona, IL 61241
Hi, I am Dr. B and I am here to work with you in partnership. Clients have the power to overcome adversity, traumatic experiences, and situations that may negatively impact their lives. Sometimes, we just need that support person who can walk with us, and guide us until we arrive at a place of acceptance, healing, and wholeness. I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I also am well versed in working with people in crisis.
Hi, I am Dr. B and I am here to work with you in partnership. Clients have the power to overcome adversity, traumatic experiences, and situations that may negatively impact their lives. Sometimes, we just need that support person who can walk with us, and guide us until we arrive at a place of acceptance, healing, and wholeness. I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I also am well versed in working with people in crisis.
(773) 207-3873 View (773) 207-3873
Photo of Rafiah Maxie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rafiah Maxie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atkinson, IL 61235
Rafiah Maxie is a Mother, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Founder of Goal Achieved, LLC. “As a 22 year psychotherapist I know the stages of change we all are faced with! My approach is to client centered, goal focused and empathic in nature- you are your BEST advocate..and I welcome you to this new beginning”. Rafiah believes that “Emotional and Mental pain is not something that should be hidden away and never spoken about. There is truth in your pain…there is growth in your pain….lets work with it together”
Rafiah Maxie is a Mother, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Founder of Goal Achieved, LLC. “As a 22 year psychotherapist I know the stages of change we all are faced with! My approach is to client centered, goal focused and empathic in nature- you are your BEST advocate..and I welcome you to this new beginning”. Rafiah believes that “Emotional and Mental pain is not something that should be hidden away and never spoken about. There is truth in your pain…there is growth in your pain….lets work with it together”
(309) 504-0825 View (309) 504-0825
Photo of Carlos Cantu, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlos Cantu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hampton, IL 61256
Hi there, I am a Mexican clinical psychologist with a degree from UASLP and a Master's degree in clinical social work from the University of Illinois. I am a licensed LCSW in Illinois and specialize in mental health focused on difficult transitions, trauma, individual and couples therapy, group therapy, and psychological evaluations for immigration. I would love to help you or anyone you know who may benefit from my services.
Hi there, I am a Mexican clinical psychologist with a degree from UASLP and a Master's degree in clinical social work from the University of Illinois. I am a licensed LCSW in Illinois and specialize in mental health focused on difficult transitions, trauma, individual and couples therapy, group therapy, and psychological evaluations for immigration. I would love to help you or anyone you know who may benefit from my services.
(708) 315-2239 View (708) 315-2239
Photo of Amber Berridge Procida, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Berridge Procida
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsdale, IL 61257
My name is Amber Berridge and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I love helping adolescents and young adults successfully navigate life's ups and downs! My focus areas include depression, anxiety, school and work stress, and other mental health concerns. My focus areas of practice are males or females between the ages of 14 and 25, struggling with depression, anxiety, school concerns, and stress. My professional experience includes using CBT, DBT, strengths-based, and mindfulness. I like to teach my clients new skills or help them to improve on ones they may have learned in the past.
My name is Amber Berridge and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I love helping adolescents and young adults successfully navigate life's ups and downs! My focus areas include depression, anxiety, school and work stress, and other mental health concerns. My focus areas of practice are males or females between the ages of 14 and 25, struggling with depression, anxiety, school concerns, and stress. My professional experience includes using CBT, DBT, strengths-based, and mindfulness. I like to teach my clients new skills or help them to improve on ones they may have learned in the past.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594

Online Therapists

Photo of Angela DiRocco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela DiRocco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a LCSW, licensed in both Illinois & California. I understand that individuals are continually adapting and doing their best to manage amongst systemic, environmental, and interpersonal stressors. I believe that achieving wellness requires a holistic approach, considering the mind, body, and spirit. My therapeutic style integrates these elements as we explore tools to support a healthy lifestyle for lasting change.
Welcome! I am a LCSW, licensed in both Illinois & California. I understand that individuals are continually adapting and doing their best to manage amongst systemic, environmental, and interpersonal stressors. I believe that achieving wellness requires a holistic approach, considering the mind, body, and spirit. My therapeutic style integrates these elements as we explore tools to support a healthy lifestyle for lasting change.
(872) 253-8710 View (872) 253-8710
Photo of Carrie Ryberg, LPC, Counselor
Carrie Ryberg
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mendota, IL 61342
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
(773) 305-6923 View (773) 305-6923
Photo of Alyssa L Schmidt, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
Alyssa L Schmidt
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rock Island, IL 61201
Stress, change, and loss are a part of our lives. We often have the resilience to handle our emotions and problems, but it is good to have help when you need it. If you are experiencing an increase in anxiety, sadness, hopelessness, or past memories that intrude on your life, you can use mindful and evidence-based strategies to help yourself. Counseling can help you acquire skills that are tailored to your preferences, needs, and learning style.
Stress, change, and loss are a part of our lives. We often have the resilience to handle our emotions and problems, but it is good to have help when you need it. If you are experiencing an increase in anxiety, sadness, hopelessness, or past memories that intrude on your life, you can use mindful and evidence-based strategies to help yourself. Counseling can help you acquire skills that are tailored to your preferences, needs, and learning style.
(309) 328-3206 View (309) 328-3206
Photo of Joan Lopina, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Joan Lopina
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Morris, IL 60450
With over 30 years of experience, I offer my clients support, insight and healing based on my success with many clients. Healing starts with your courage, commitment, and a desire for change. Making the decision to trust another in a counseling setting, begins the healing. As a therapist, I will listen, support and counsel you to achieve your goals and to stop the hurting. With understanding, insight and patience, you can live a more fulfilling life. It will be my privilege to serve you.
With over 30 years of experience, I offer my clients support, insight and healing based on my success with many clients. Healing starts with your courage, commitment, and a desire for change. Making the decision to trust another in a counseling setting, begins the healing. As a therapist, I will listen, support and counsel you to achieve your goals and to stop the hurting. With understanding, insight and patience, you can live a more fulfilling life. It will be my privilege to serve you.
(815) 401-9155 View (815) 401-9155
Photo of Denika Shanta McMillen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denika Shanta McMillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
When people feel isolated or alone in their situation, they need someone else to help them gain a new perspective, feel differently, or at times escape the state at hand. My philosophy is to view therapy as if it were a "tune up" to help people keep operating through life. Just like cars need regular tune ups and oil changes to keep running smoothly, people also need regular check-ins and support for internal issues. This is especially important for people of color and minority populations because they face additional societal challenges (including microaggressions) that may or may not be overt but are often painful.
When people feel isolated or alone in their situation, they need someone else to help them gain a new perspective, feel differently, or at times escape the state at hand. My philosophy is to view therapy as if it were a "tune up" to help people keep operating through life. Just like cars need regular tune ups and oil changes to keep running smoothly, people also need regular check-ins and support for internal issues. This is especially important for people of color and minority populations because they face additional societal challenges (including microaggressions) that may or may not be overt but are often painful.
(331) 246-0805 View (331) 246-0805
Photo of Morgan Fulton-Gorham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Fulton-Gorham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Everyone seeks counseling for different reasons. Maybe you have recently experienced a major life event and are looking for an ally to assist you in processing your emotions or thought patterns. Maybe you're looking to shed behaviors that you no longer find useful or healthy, and you believe could use help with the process. Maybe you're seeking new skills that will help you better understand and manage a recent change or diagnosis. No matter your reason for seeking help, my hope is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space of trust where you are able to do the work you need to take back control of your life.
Everyone seeks counseling for different reasons. Maybe you have recently experienced a major life event and are looking for an ally to assist you in processing your emotions or thought patterns. Maybe you're looking to shed behaviors that you no longer find useful or healthy, and you believe could use help with the process. Maybe you're seeking new skills that will help you better understand and manage a recent change or diagnosis. No matter your reason for seeking help, my hope is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space of trust where you are able to do the work you need to take back control of your life.
(309) 271-2178 View (309) 271-2178
Photo of Shirley Morse - Open Doors Community Counseling (Gateway), MA, LPC, LCPC, LSW, Counselor
Open Doors Community Counseling (Gateway)
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, IL 61356
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can be the most difficult part of beginning professional counseling. Here at Open Doors we believe that an investment in yourself is always beneficial, and we hope to assist you on your journey of mental wellness. Open Doors Community Counseling is a program of Gateway Services, Inc. We opened our community counseling program in July 2017. We have three full-time clinicians who provide compassionate support and encouragement to help you meet your wellness goals.
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can be the most difficult part of beginning professional counseling. Here at Open Doors we believe that an investment in yourself is always beneficial, and we hope to assist you on your journey of mental wellness. Open Doors Community Counseling is a program of Gateway Services, Inc. We opened our community counseling program in July 2017. We have three full-time clinicians who provide compassionate support and encouragement to help you meet your wellness goals.
(815) 421-1282 x273 View (815) 421-1282 x273
Photo of Rebecca T E Lynn - Blue Skies Counseling LLC, MS LCPC, CADC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Blue Skies Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS LCPC, CADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to Blue Skies Counseling! I am Rebecca Lynn. Seeking counseling can be a life changing decision. Many people have tried on their own to change behaviors but have been frustrated in the process. I will help guide you in a direction where you see results in your life and relationships. I enjoy the simple language of walking beside another human being on life's journey, that's counseling in my mind.
Welcome to Blue Skies Counseling! I am Rebecca Lynn. Seeking counseling can be a life changing decision. Many people have tried on their own to change behaviors but have been frustrated in the process. I will help guide you in a direction where you see results in your life and relationships. I enjoy the simple language of walking beside another human being on life's journey, that's counseling in my mind.
(309) 245-0816 View (309) 245-0816
Photo of Tina White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61606
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of professional experience as a non-profit leader and clinician providing direct services to a diverse population. I’m a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, adverse child experiences, gender and sexual identity, and substance use issues. I often use a cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based approach within a trauma-informed and harm reduction framework. My training and experience benefit survivors of trauma, life transitions, psychological distress, and identity issues.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of professional experience as a non-profit leader and clinician providing direct services to a diverse population. I’m a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, adverse child experiences, gender and sexual identity, and substance use issues. I often use a cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based approach within a trauma-informed and harm reduction framework. My training and experience benefit survivors of trauma, life transitions, psychological distress, and identity issues.
(773) 825-5108 View (773) 825-5108
Photo of Somer Muhs, LCPC, Counselor
Somer Muhs
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
Hello, my name is Somer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I am also licensed in Indiana as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I received my Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Ball State University. My clinical training included both a low income university clinic treating children and adults, and a community mental health facility where I treated children, adolescents, families, and foster families. I have volunteer experience with the National Suicide Hotline, working with adult female victims of domestic violence, and working with people experiencing povert
Hello, my name is Somer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I am also licensed in Indiana as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I received my Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Ball State University. My clinical training included both a low income university clinic treating children and adults, and a community mental health facility where I treated children, adolescents, families, and foster families. I have volunteer experience with the National Suicide Hotline, working with adult female victims of domestic violence, and working with people experiencing povert
(224) 435-4770 View (224) 435-4770
Photo of Abby J. Taplin, LCPC, Counselor
Abby J. Taplin
Counselor, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Do you feel overwhelmed with bouts of depression or anxiety? I can help you. Together, we can unlock old patterns of thinking that may have left you feeling trapped or stuck through mindfulness based CBT which focuses on changing your relationship with negative emotions. Mindfulness allows one to become more cognitive of their immediate reaction to unsettling thoughts and emotions. In doing so, this allows one to employ skills to redefine that experience and promote self-love, compassion, and growth. I believe everyone is capable of finding joy, peace and fulfillment in their lives.
Do you feel overwhelmed with bouts of depression or anxiety? I can help you. Together, we can unlock old patterns of thinking that may have left you feeling trapped or stuck through mindfulness based CBT which focuses on changing your relationship with negative emotions. Mindfulness allows one to become more cognitive of their immediate reaction to unsettling thoughts and emotions. In doing so, this allows one to employ skills to redefine that experience and promote self-love, compassion, and growth. I believe everyone is capable of finding joy, peace and fulfillment in their lives.
(815) 418-7137 View (815) 418-7137
Photo of Vicki Elizabeth Marcum, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Elizabeth Marcum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61102
I have worked with all ages across the life span from birth to death and all the life issues in-between. I work with people with mood disorders, relationship issues, child and family, illness, grief/loss, women's issues, abuse, domestic violence. and trauma issues. You are not your diagnosis! I know some kind of pain has made you reach out. I want to help you find a way to make the pain go away so you will feel good. and live more fully in the moment.
I have worked with all ages across the life span from birth to death and all the life issues in-between. I work with people with mood disorders, relationship issues, child and family, illness, grief/loss, women's issues, abuse, domestic violence. and trauma issues. You are not your diagnosis! I know some kind of pain has made you reach out. I want to help you find a way to make the pain go away so you will feel good. and live more fully in the moment.
(815) 683-0579 View (815) 683-0579

See more therapy options for Geneseo

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Geneseo, IL

< 10

Therapists in Geneseo, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
75% Relationship Issues
75% Depression
75% Grief
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Coping Skills
75% Stress

Average years in practice

27 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Geneseo, IL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Geneseo?

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.