Therapists in Milford, IL

Photo of Gaelle Vernet, LCPC, Counselor
Gaelle Vernet
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Milford, IL 60953
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
(847) 443-5158 View (847) 443-5158

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Savannah Williams, LCPC, Counselor
Savannah Williams
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Watseka, IL 60970
Welcome, I'm Savannah! I am a clinically licensed therapist (LCPC) and more than excited that you took the step to seeking support and care for your mental health. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD/Exposures, trauma, stress management, life transitions and school refusal/anxiety.
Welcome, I'm Savannah! I am a clinically licensed therapist (LCPC) and more than excited that you took the step to seeking support and care for your mental health. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD/Exposures, trauma, stress management, life transitions and school refusal/anxiety.
(773) 825-6707 View (773) 825-6707
Photo of Garth W Amundson, PsyD, Psychologist
Garth W Amundson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Claytonville, IL 60926
With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals overcome depression, anxiety, and interpersonal issues. My therapy approach provides a safe space to explore growth and healing. I focus on getting you unstuck and clearing emotional pathways for personal enrichment. Together, we will tackle anxiety, depression, and self-doubt, empowering you to discover your true self and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. I take tremendous pride in helping clients figure out who they are, by helping them cope with feelings of anxiety, depression, and other matters. I have published widely (see pic in the gallery section here)
With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals overcome depression, anxiety, and interpersonal issues. My therapy approach provides a safe space to explore growth and healing. I focus on getting you unstuck and clearing emotional pathways for personal enrichment. Together, we will tackle anxiety, depression, and self-doubt, empowering you to discover your true self and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. I take tremendous pride in helping clients figure out who they are, by helping them cope with feelings of anxiety, depression, and other matters. I have published widely (see pic in the gallery section here)
(872) 250-4938 View (872) 250-4938
Photo of Amber Estes, LCPC, Counselor
Amber Estes
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watseka, IL 60970
Do find yourself constantly dissecting and analyzing your experiences, trying to make sense of them intellectually? And it leaves you feeling...Like a burden to others? Like you are alone? Pretending everything is fine? And here's some truth... your feelings are valid, but not representative of reality or a reflection of you! You don't have to pretend with me as we explore your story- a place where your unique experiences are held without judgement and understood.
Do find yourself constantly dissecting and analyzing your experiences, trying to make sense of them intellectually? And it leaves you feeling...Like a burden to others? Like you are alone? Pretending everything is fine? And here's some truth... your feelings are valid, but not representative of reality or a reflection of you! You don't have to pretend with me as we explore your story- a place where your unique experiences are held without judgement and understood.
(815) 332-0075 View (815) 332-0075

Online Therapists

Photo of Amanda Jenkins, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
(708) 887-2960 View (708) 887-2960
Photo of Natalie Allen, MA, LCPC, CCTP, CGCS, Counselor
Natalie Allen
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP, CGCS
Verified Verified
Flossmoor, IL 60422  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping others tap into their internal strengths as they endeavor working through their past experiences and the challenges of today. I encourage individuals to utilize emotional and relational resources at their disposal along their journey to Wellness.    I offer a safe, authentic and empathic environment to explore behaviors, feelings and thoughts that may lead to internal or relational discord.  This perspective will allow one to develop self-awareness, assertiveness and healthy boundaries to gently address the important areas of life in a productive manner. 
I enjoy helping others tap into their internal strengths as they endeavor working through their past experiences and the challenges of today. I encourage individuals to utilize emotional and relational resources at their disposal along their journey to Wellness.    I offer a safe, authentic and empathic environment to explore behaviors, feelings and thoughts that may lead to internal or relational discord.  This perspective will allow one to develop self-awareness, assertiveness and healthy boundaries to gently address the important areas of life in a productive manner. 
(872) 259-4582 View (872) 259-4582
Photo of Tory Krone, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tory Krone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Whether your relationship is full of conflict or it feels like you have a more intimate relationship with your phones than with each other, I can help you to reconnect, reduce conflict, improve communication, break through longstanding negative patterns and arguments you have on repeat, strengthen your intimacy and relationship satisfaction. We'll focus on practical strategies that we know from decades of research to be effective. The majority of couples I've worked with tell me they notice positive changes in their patterns, greater awareness of their emotions and improved interactions after just 3-5 sessions.
Whether your relationship is full of conflict or it feels like you have a more intimate relationship with your phones than with each other, I can help you to reconnect, reduce conflict, improve communication, break through longstanding negative patterns and arguments you have on repeat, strengthen your intimacy and relationship satisfaction. We'll focus on practical strategies that we know from decades of research to be effective. The majority of couples I've worked with tell me they notice positive changes in their patterns, greater awareness of their emotions and improved interactions after just 3-5 sessions.
(224) 507-6682 View (224) 507-6682
Photo of Dan Peterson, LCPC, Counselor
Dan Peterson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
Raising challenging children can be exhausting and frustrating. You feel guilty about not being able to fix your child's behavioral problems and confused about what to do next. Although many professionals recommend your child take medication, you are not comfortable with it. Your child may be disagnosed with ADHD, ODD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety or have other disruptive behavioral components. You are looking for some options that help you feel good about your parenting style while helping your child succeed. If this sounds like your story in any way, you are not alone and I can help.
Raising challenging children can be exhausting and frustrating. You feel guilty about not being able to fix your child's behavioral problems and confused about what to do next. Although many professionals recommend your child take medication, you are not comfortable with it. Your child may be disagnosed with ADHD, ODD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety or have other disruptive behavioral components. You are looking for some options that help you feel good about your parenting style while helping your child succeed. If this sounds like your story in any way, you are not alone and I can help.
(630) 448-2843 View (630) 448-2843
Photo of Baheia Ahmad, EdD,  LCPC, Counselor
Baheia Ahmad
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
Dr. Baheia AhmadDerweesh is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 1997. She holds a doctoral degree in Counseling Education. As a psychotherapist, Dr. AhmadDerweesh offers a compassionate and personalized approach to each client, recognizing that every individual’s journey is unique. Dr. AhmadDerweesh utilizes a blend of evidencebased techniques, including cognitivebehavioral therapy, mindfulness, psychodynamic approaches, and solutionfocused therapy, tailored to the specific needs and goals of each client.
Dr. Baheia AhmadDerweesh is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 1997. She holds a doctoral degree in Counseling Education. As a psychotherapist, Dr. AhmadDerweesh offers a compassionate and personalized approach to each client, recognizing that every individual’s journey is unique. Dr. AhmadDerweesh utilizes a blend of evidencebased techniques, including cognitivebehavioral therapy, mindfulness, psychodynamic approaches, and solutionfocused therapy, tailored to the specific needs and goals of each client.
(708) 332-1499 View (708) 332-1499
Photo of Mindy Sherack Life Coach Therapist, BSN, MSW, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Sherack Life Coach Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSN, MSW, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
I am obsessed with partnering alongside brave people who are motivated for a better life, become the architects to actually do it! We all come face to face with our personal "life stumbling stone" (a certain event, relationship, loss, difficult life situation), that we are unable to adequately cope with, using our own inner strength, resources, knowledge or willpower. Loss and adversity are a part of life, but it can be the architecture for a better, more fulfilling and joyful life, it just depends how we use it! With over 30 years working with clients, across the entire life span, let me coach you to create your best you!
I am obsessed with partnering alongside brave people who are motivated for a better life, become the architects to actually do it! We all come face to face with our personal "life stumbling stone" (a certain event, relationship, loss, difficult life situation), that we are unable to adequately cope with, using our own inner strength, resources, knowledge or willpower. Loss and adversity are a part of life, but it can be the architecture for a better, more fulfilling and joyful life, it just depends how we use it! With over 30 years working with clients, across the entire life span, let me coach you to create your best you!
(773) 570-2542 View (773) 570-2542
Photo of Liliana Cardona, LCPC, Counselor
Liliana Cardona
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I believe in the healing power of a strong therapeutic alliance. My practice is based on the conviction that with the right support, everyone can effect change in their lives.
I believe in the healing power of a strong therapeutic alliance. My practice is based on the conviction that with the right support, everyone can effect change in their lives.
(224) 243-5611 View (224) 243-5611
Photo of Kelsey Manzi, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kelsey Manzi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck or unhappy in your life or relationships? Are you looking to change old patterns or habits that are keeping you from having the relationship you want? I’m passionate and skilled at working with individuals and couples struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, premarital concerns, anxiety, attachment, self-esteem, and family discord. I see my clients as unique, strong, and capable beings and I utilize your strengths to support bringing about positive change. I believe we all need a shoulder to cry on and a place to be honest + vulnerable, so my goal is that you feel safe and comfortable in session.
Feeling stuck or unhappy in your life or relationships? Are you looking to change old patterns or habits that are keeping you from having the relationship you want? I’m passionate and skilled at working with individuals and couples struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, premarital concerns, anxiety, attachment, self-esteem, and family discord. I see my clients as unique, strong, and capable beings and I utilize your strengths to support bringing about positive change. I believe we all need a shoulder to cry on and a place to be honest + vulnerable, so my goal is that you feel safe and comfortable in session.
(312) 471-9253 View (312) 471-9253
Photo of Ken J Summers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ken J Summers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
It is easy to become sidetracked from the things we value most by the busyness of life. Has your relationship with your spouse lost its spark? Are you angry with little hope for a positive future? Do you feel defeated when trying to interact with your teen/child with everyday battles? If you are a person of faith and long to be your best, I can help! As a Christian Licensed Therapist, I have helped hundreds of families work through personal & relational conflict and challenging circumstances.
It is easy to become sidetracked from the things we value most by the busyness of life. Has your relationship with your spouse lost its spark? Are you angry with little hope for a positive future? Do you feel defeated when trying to interact with your teen/child with everyday battles? If you are a person of faith and long to be your best, I can help! As a Christian Licensed Therapist, I have helped hundreds of families work through personal & relational conflict and challenging circumstances.
(309) 328-6651 View (309) 328-6651
Photo of Samuel Lenzi, MA, LCPC, LPCC
Samuel Lenzi
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Hello! My name is Sam (he/him/his), and I have been a Professional Counselor since 2018. I am a Korean-American, Cisgender, Gay man, and I am very passionate about working with clients at the intersection of BIPOC and Queer Identities. I am familiar with issues that impact College Students, Cancer Patients, Caregivers, and people with Eating Disorders. I enjoy working with adults 18-45 who are struggling Grief, Anxiety, and Trauma. While therapy can be very vulnerable, humor is a big part of my therapeutic style and personality.
Hello! My name is Sam (he/him/his), and I have been a Professional Counselor since 2018. I am a Korean-American, Cisgender, Gay man, and I am very passionate about working with clients at the intersection of BIPOC and Queer Identities. I am familiar with issues that impact College Students, Cancer Patients, Caregivers, and people with Eating Disorders. I enjoy working with adults 18-45 who are struggling Grief, Anxiety, and Trauma. While therapy can be very vulnerable, humor is a big part of my therapeutic style and personality.
(872) 246-8998 View (872) 246-8998
Photo of Sarah Contorer - Sarah Contorer, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Contorer, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I use supportive, insight-oriented and cognitive techniques in order to help my clients identify the source of their dissatisfaction, and begin to pursue a more fulfilling life. Beginning therapy takes courage. However, it is very often a relief to gain perspective on issues that at present may feel overwhelming or unmanageable. I see therapy as an opportunity to find relief from distress, and to find lasting, sustainable improvement in the quality of your life.
I use supportive, insight-oriented and cognitive techniques in order to help my clients identify the source of their dissatisfaction, and begin to pursue a more fulfilling life. Beginning therapy takes courage. However, it is very often a relief to gain perspective on issues that at present may feel overwhelming or unmanageable. I see therapy as an opportunity to find relief from distress, and to find lasting, sustainable improvement in the quality of your life.
(773) 234-8998 View (773) 234-8998
Photo of Anne Kellstedt Ramirez - Anne Kellstedt Ramirez, MS, LCPC, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Anne Kellstedt Ramirez, MS, LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Anne Kellstedt Ramirez, LCPC is an experienced professional counselor in Wheaton, IL. It is hard to have peace of mind if we're not connecting well with others, or at war within ourselves. When we are nourished in supportive relationships, we are less vulnerable to depression, anxiety and addictions. I've been assisting adults of all ages who are looking to make a change in their lives. It is a deep privilege for me to journey beside my clients as they grow, and my therapeutic style is warm & collaborative. One of my passions is treating mental health professionals, or anyone looking to become more genuinely themselves.
Anne Kellstedt Ramirez, LCPC is an experienced professional counselor in Wheaton, IL. It is hard to have peace of mind if we're not connecting well with others, or at war within ourselves. When we are nourished in supportive relationships, we are less vulnerable to depression, anxiety and addictions. I've been assisting adults of all ages who are looking to make a change in their lives. It is a deep privilege for me to journey beside my clients as they grow, and my therapeutic style is warm & collaborative. One of my passions is treating mental health professionals, or anyone looking to become more genuinely themselves.
(630) 381-6209 x2 View (630) 381-6209 x2
Photo of Emilie Lahm, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emilie Lahm
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
Hello, I’m Emilie! I am a compassionate, authentic, and dedicated mental health professional driven by the belief that therapy can be transformative and deeply meaningful. I truly believe that everyone deserves the chance to delve into the depths of who they are and nurture their emotional well-being along the way. You’re worth every bit of effort and investment, and together, we can journey through life’s ups and downs, guiding you toward a deeper sense of well-being and fulfillment.
Hello, I’m Emilie! I am a compassionate, authentic, and dedicated mental health professional driven by the belief that therapy can be transformative and deeply meaningful. I truly believe that everyone deserves the chance to delve into the depths of who they are and nurture their emotional well-being along the way. You’re worth every bit of effort and investment, and together, we can journey through life’s ups and downs, guiding you toward a deeper sense of well-being and fulfillment.
(708) 578-2605 View (708) 578-2605
Photo of Dr. Abbré R. McClain, PsyD, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Abbré R. McClain
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
I am a licensed professional clinical psychotherapist with over a decade of experience working with youth ages 0-18. I also specialize in early infant-parent psychotherapy, childhood development, parent-child relationships, parental mental health, and family wellness. I have has also received additional specialized training in trauma-informed care and multicultural psychology which are vital to youth wellness!
I am a licensed professional clinical psychotherapist with over a decade of experience working with youth ages 0-18. I also specialize in early infant-parent psychotherapy, childhood development, parent-child relationships, parental mental health, and family wellness. I have has also received additional specialized training in trauma-informed care and multicultural psychology which are vital to youth wellness!
(773) 453-5773 View (773) 453-5773
Photo of Gregg (Cal) Calvird, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Gregg (Cal) Calvird
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
As a licensed clinical professional counselor, my practice focus is on adult issues of work/life balance, relationship issues, managing depression and anxiety, as well as substance use and compulsive behaviors. Grounded in client-centered and humanistic philosophies of growth and change, my style is active, collaborative and respectful. As an artist trained as a psychotherapist, I believe strongly in the untapped creative capacity and resilience of each person to translate actionable insight into relevant, meaningful change.
As a licensed clinical professional counselor, my practice focus is on adult issues of work/life balance, relationship issues, managing depression and anxiety, as well as substance use and compulsive behaviors. Grounded in client-centered and humanistic philosophies of growth and change, my style is active, collaborative and respectful. As an artist trained as a psychotherapist, I believe strongly in the untapped creative capacity and resilience of each person to translate actionable insight into relevant, meaningful change.
(872) 213-7738 View (872) 213-7738
Photo of Nicole Cochrane - Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
(630) 669-6033 View (630) 669-6033

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Milford, IL

< 10

Therapists in Milford, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Life Coaching
100% Other

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Milford, 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 Milford?

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.