Therapists in Mundelein, IL

Photo of Kelly Goldstein, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Goldstein
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
With over 20 years experience, I am dedicated to assisting children, adolescents and adults in developing and strengthening interpersonal skills, recognizing and regulating their emotional states, creating healthier relationships and achieving new and positive goals.
With over 20 years experience, I am dedicated to assisting children, adolescents and adults in developing and strengthening interpersonal skills, recognizing and regulating their emotional states, creating healthier relationships and achieving new and positive goals.
(847) 457-0494 View (847) 457-0494
Photo of Deanna Booth, LCPC, Counselor
Deanna Booth
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
Therapy services are often sought when one is overwhelmed or desiring more satisfaction in personal and/or professional relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families. Presenting problems may be, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, interpersonal communication, teen and young adult transitions/stress, parenting, marital discord, divorce/blended families, body image and trauma. My ideal clients come to our sessions with an interest in better understanding themselves and the relationships they are in. It is through their hard work and willingness to trust the process that therapeutic changes are achieved.
Therapy services are often sought when one is overwhelmed or desiring more satisfaction in personal and/or professional relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families. Presenting problems may be, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, interpersonal communication, teen and young adult transitions/stress, parenting, marital discord, divorce/blended families, body image and trauma. My ideal clients come to our sessions with an interest in better understanding themselves and the relationships they are in. It is through their hard work and willingness to trust the process that therapeutic changes are achieved.
(224) 360-5432 View (224) 360-5432
Photo of Shenandoah Cardwell, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Shenandoah Cardwell
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
I believe therapy is about helping you sort out the problem, rally your strengths, and learn the skills needed to move forward in your life. It can take incredible courage to recognize when help is needed, and then ask for that help. When you know you are ready, I will welcome the opportunity to work with you on your goals in an atmosphere of respect and support. Whether for depression/anxiety, managing stress, coping with loss or trauma, or becoming a more effective worker, partner or parent, you will grow in understanding yourself and meeting your needs.
I believe therapy is about helping you sort out the problem, rally your strengths, and learn the skills needed to move forward in your life. It can take incredible courage to recognize when help is needed, and then ask for that help. When you know you are ready, I will welcome the opportunity to work with you on your goals in an atmosphere of respect and support. Whether for depression/anxiety, managing stress, coping with loss or trauma, or becoming a more effective worker, partner or parent, you will grow in understanding yourself and meeting your needs.
(847) 920-7611 x700 View (847) 920-7611 x700
Photo of Stephanie Ardagh LCSW, LCSW, Type 73, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Ardagh LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Type 73
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
North Star Counseling Group was founded on the idea that all people will find themselves in need of guidance and support at some point in their life. Various concerns can lead a person to counseling services. Stephanie Ardagh, LCSW works with children ages 3-18. She is experienced in addressing issues of: self esteem, self injury, body image, school refusal, adjustment to divorce and loss, social skills, and significant behavior disorders. Stephanie sees parents as a valuable resource and ally when working with children. She works well with other providers, such as school personnel, to get to know her clients and their unique needs.
North Star Counseling Group was founded on the idea that all people will find themselves in need of guidance and support at some point in their life. Various concerns can lead a person to counseling services. Stephanie Ardagh, LCSW works with children ages 3-18. She is experienced in addressing issues of: self esteem, self injury, body image, school refusal, adjustment to divorce and loss, social skills, and significant behavior disorders. Stephanie sees parents as a valuable resource and ally when working with children. She works well with other providers, such as school personnel, to get to know her clients and their unique needs.
(224) 360-5219 View (224) 360-5219
Photo of Currently Not Accepting New Clients - Elena Scott, LCPC, LPC, CADC
Currently Not Accepting New Clients - Elena Scott
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
Life doesn't always go as planned, and asking for help isn't always easy. My goal is to create a supportive environment for you to explore life's challenges. Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse are all manageable, and you don't have to deal with them alone. I work with individuals, couples and families and approach diagnosis and treatment from a collaborative place. In session, I am interactive as I work alongside to you reach your goals. LGBTQ+ ally. I am a CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) and a CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional). I have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Life doesn't always go as planned, and asking for help isn't always easy. My goal is to create a supportive environment for you to explore life's challenges. Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse are all manageable, and you don't have to deal with them alone. I work with individuals, couples and families and approach diagnosis and treatment from a collaborative place. In session, I am interactive as I work alongside to you reach your goals. LGBTQ+ ally. I am a CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) and a CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional). I have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
(224) 207-4326 View (224) 207-4326
Photo of Barry E Hinkeldey, MA, LPC, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Barry E Hinkeldey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
Clients that suffer from substance use disorder can seek counseling to obtain a better understanding of their choices and/or disease. My vision with each client is helping them regain a sense of control through recovery and a positive outlook on life.
Clients that suffer from substance use disorder can seek counseling to obtain a better understanding of their choices and/or disease. My vision with each client is helping them regain a sense of control through recovery and a positive outlook on life.
(224) 360-5391 View (224) 360-5391
Photo of Robin Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
Therapy is a brave step towards improving overall wellness. Individuals, couples, and families that are interested in working to increase their well being should read on. If your life has become overwhelming, your relationships difficult to manage, or if you are experiencing less satisfaction at work or home, then therapy may be a positive step to alleviate your current difficulties. Those who want to reduce the pain and frustration associated with depression, anxiety, adjustment to change, self doubt, and anger are appropriate candidates for psychotherapy. Therapy has the potential to improve your quality of life personally and within important relationships.
Therapy is a brave step towards improving overall wellness. Individuals, couples, and families that are interested in working to increase their well being should read on. If your life has become overwhelming, your relationships difficult to manage, or if you are experiencing less satisfaction at work or home, then therapy may be a positive step to alleviate your current difficulties. Those who want to reduce the pain and frustration associated with depression, anxiety, adjustment to change, self doubt, and anger are appropriate candidates for psychotherapy. Therapy has the potential to improve your quality of life personally and within important relationships.
(773) 432-7095 x200 View (773) 432-7095 x200
Photo of Dr. Sean Woodford, PsyD, CADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Sean Woodford
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
Your health and happiness are what I strive for. We each have our own unique struggles which deserve individualized care and attention. I have helped individuals across the lifespan with acute and chronic conditions, at outpatient, partial-hospital, and inpatient levels of care. I hold the belief that anyone can recover with the right motivation, honesty, and accountability.
Your health and happiness are what I strive for. We each have our own unique struggles which deserve individualized care and attention. I have helped individuals across the lifespan with acute and chronic conditions, at outpatient, partial-hospital, and inpatient levels of care. I hold the belief that anyone can recover with the right motivation, honesty, and accountability.
(224) 272-9217 View (224) 272-9217
Photo of Connie Stanislaus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connie Stanislaus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
If you have found yourself here, Thank you for your courage. In our quiet moments, we wish for a safe place to explore our darkness to discover our light within. A reduction in anxiety brings peace. Being soulful in humanness is our challenge. Often we find ourselves in confusion with negative voices in our head that pulls at our hearts. No matter what our circumstances, suppression of our true nature will result in anxiety, depression or relationship problems. Circumstances may change or even improve, yet self love eludes us. Acceptance and management of ALL feelings is the way to peace of mind.
If you have found yourself here, Thank you for your courage. In our quiet moments, we wish for a safe place to explore our darkness to discover our light within. A reduction in anxiety brings peace. Being soulful in humanness is our challenge. Often we find ourselves in confusion with negative voices in our head that pulls at our hearts. No matter what our circumstances, suppression of our true nature will result in anxiety, depression or relationship problems. Circumstances may change or even improve, yet self love eludes us. Acceptance and management of ALL feelings is the way to peace of mind.
(847) 440-3705 View (847) 440-3705
Photo of Kelly C Swann, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Kelly C Swann
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
Everyone needs help navigating life's issues and complexities from time to time. Sometimes these problems can lead to feelings of confusion, depression and anxiety. I want to assist you on your personal journey as you traverse life's challenges and obstacles. I am confident that each of my clients hold the capacity to overcome adversity, effectively communicate, make healthy life choices, and lead happy and productive lives.
Everyone needs help navigating life's issues and complexities from time to time. Sometimes these problems can lead to feelings of confusion, depression and anxiety. I want to assist you on your personal journey as you traverse life's challenges and obstacles. I am confident that each of my clients hold the capacity to overcome adversity, effectively communicate, make healthy life choices, and lead happy and productive lives.
(678) 374-1699 View (678) 374-1699
Photo of Lauren Levine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
Seeking treatment is a sign of strength. When clients contact me they are looking to get a handle on areas of their life that may be feeling overwhelming. It is not uncommon for those entering therapy to report feelings of anxiety, depression, loss, anger, sadness, fear and disappointment. During times of stress people report experiencing increased fighting with or avoidance of the important people in their lives. Relationships that may be complicated at this time include family, peer, employer, school and significant others. Managing to hold it all together, plan for the future and maintain stability can feel overwhelming.
Seeking treatment is a sign of strength. When clients contact me they are looking to get a handle on areas of their life that may be feeling overwhelming. It is not uncommon for those entering therapy to report feelings of anxiety, depression, loss, anger, sadness, fear and disappointment. During times of stress people report experiencing increased fighting with or avoidance of the important people in their lives. Relationships that may be complicated at this time include family, peer, employer, school and significant others. Managing to hold it all together, plan for the future and maintain stability can feel overwhelming.
(224) 360-5438 View (224) 360-5438
Photo of Kevin Kelsey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Kelsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Everyone needs help sometimes. Admitting that past traumas and current circumstances are blocking your way is hard. Thank you for taking this step. For over 25 years, I have counseled others on tackling their life circumstances, working through their negative thoughts and behaviors, examining their strengths, and guiding them down a meaningful path. I would be honored to hear your story. I create an open, conversational environment that is flexible and focused on you. Together, we will work to help you become who you want to be, even if you don’t know who that is yet.
Everyone needs help sometimes. Admitting that past traumas and current circumstances are blocking your way is hard. Thank you for taking this step. For over 25 years, I have counseled others on tackling their life circumstances, working through their negative thoughts and behaviors, examining their strengths, and guiding them down a meaningful path. I would be honored to hear your story. I create an open, conversational environment that is flexible and focused on you. Together, we will work to help you become who you want to be, even if you don’t know who that is yet.
(847) 916-8610 View (847) 916-8610
Photo of Bright-Prophet E Fellowes - Mental Health Solutions, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Mental Health Solutions
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
I am available to help guide you in living a more complete and satisfying life. Utilizing a warm, conversational approach, I am happy to assist with overcoming difficulties such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, behavioral concerns, and low self esteem. I can also provide an in depth psychological assessment to elicit greater insight and clarify your treatment plan recommendations. I look forward to opening doors so you may help you.
I am available to help guide you in living a more complete and satisfying life. Utilizing a warm, conversational approach, I am happy to assist with overcoming difficulties such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, behavioral concerns, and low self esteem. I can also provide an in depth psychological assessment to elicit greater insight and clarify your treatment plan recommendations. I look forward to opening doors so you may help you.
(224) 643-0763 x619 View (224) 643-0763 x619
Photo of Emma Peters, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Emma Peters
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! You've taken a great step by exploring new ways to care for yourself through therapy. Many situations and life circumstances bring people to this space, and I look forward to talking with you more about your story. If you're even wondering if therapy might be right for you, then the answer is yes! Over the years, I've developed a passion for working with young adults and supporting the unique challenges they face today. I've found that many young (and even not-so-young!) adults are dealing with major life transitions, and struggle to navigate those new changes at times. This is where therapy steps in!
Welcome! You've taken a great step by exploring new ways to care for yourself through therapy. Many situations and life circumstances bring people to this space, and I look forward to talking with you more about your story. If you're even wondering if therapy might be right for you, then the answer is yes! Over the years, I've developed a passion for working with young adults and supporting the unique challenges they face today. I've found that many young (and even not-so-young!) adults are dealing with major life transitions, and struggle to navigate those new changes at times. This is where therapy steps in!
(224) 243-3176 View (224) 243-3176
Photo of Heather M Howard - Active Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Active Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
(773) 985-3407 View (773) 985-3407
Photo of Rafiah Maxie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rafiah Maxie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
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 Jori Riske, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jori Riske
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
If you are reading this, you have already begun your journey of self-discovery. Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can be an opportunity for change that reduces stress and increases your personal satisfaction. We all experience anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed, loss of motivation or fear of change. How we cope and understand our behaviors greatly impacts how we work through these difficult times. Through the therapeutic relationship I develop with clients, they are able to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and engage in more fulfilling relationships with others.
If you are reading this, you have already begun your journey of self-discovery. Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can be an opportunity for change that reduces stress and increases your personal satisfaction. We all experience anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed, loss of motivation or fear of change. How we cope and understand our behaviors greatly impacts how we work through these difficult times. Through the therapeutic relationship I develop with clients, they are able to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and engage in more fulfilling relationships with others.
(224) 365-8667 x100 View (224) 365-8667 x100
Photo of Ryan T Porter - Guardian Youth & Family Counseling, LPC, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Guardian Youth & Family Counseling
Counselor, LPC, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
My name is Ryan Porter, and I am an Arizona LPC and an Illinois LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients for over 24 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
My name is Ryan Porter, and I am an Arizona LPC and an Illinois LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients for over 24 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
(847) 892-1398 View (847) 892-1398
Renee Jaegers
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
I believe all people can benefit from therapy services at one point or another within their lifetime. Through an integral treatment approach to therapy, utilizing treatments grounded in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), psychoanalysis and interpersonal principles, I strive to create a safe atmosphere, fostering trust within the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work toward discovering the answers needed for you to get "unstuck" and to move forward in life. I look forward to hearing from you.
I believe all people can benefit from therapy services at one point or another within their lifetime. Through an integral treatment approach to therapy, utilizing treatments grounded in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), psychoanalysis and interpersonal principles, I strive to create a safe atmosphere, fostering trust within the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work toward discovering the answers needed for you to get "unstuck" and to move forward in life. I look forward to hearing from you.
(224) 279-6572 View (224) 279-6572
Photo of Jessica McGuire, LCPC, LPHA, Counselor
Jessica McGuire
Counselor, LCPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. Have areas of your life become stressful, overwhelming or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work together to identify your strengths, barriers, and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals and objectives. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, mental health symptoms, addiction, feelings of inadequacy or finding balance in your life, I am able to help. Through a specifically tailored approach you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to progress in life.
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. Have areas of your life become stressful, overwhelming or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work together to identify your strengths, barriers, and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals and objectives. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, mental health symptoms, addiction, feelings of inadequacy or finding balance in your life, I am able to help. Through a specifically tailored approach you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to progress in life.
(224) 571-9642 View (224) 571-9642
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mundelein, IL

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Mundelein, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
98% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
71% Coping Skills
71% Self Esteem
69% Life Transitions
68% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

99% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna
62% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Mundelein, IL see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mundelein?

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.