Therapists in Radford, IL

Photo of Gaelle Vernet, LCPC
Gaelle Vernet
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Radford, IL 62550
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.
(708) 367-6590 View (708) 367-6590
Photo of Elizabeth Marx, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Radford, IL 62550
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
(618) 486-1388 View (618) 486-1388

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daffaney Burnside, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daffaney Burnside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stonington, IL 62567
Hello. My name is Daffaney Burnside. I am licensed clinical therapist (LCSW). I am very passionate about counseling and supporting people in their clinical journey to creating a healthier version of themselves. I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, childhood -present traumas and recent life adjustments: loss-grief, relationships, marriage, divorce, parenting and stressors within employment, school environments, etc. I implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among clients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations.
Hello. My name is Daffaney Burnside. I am licensed clinical therapist (LCSW). I am very passionate about counseling and supporting people in their clinical journey to creating a healthier version of themselves. I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, childhood -present traumas and recent life adjustments: loss-grief, relationships, marriage, divorce, parenting and stressors within employment, school environments, etc. I implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among clients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Kimberly Parks, LPC
Kimberly Parks
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Assumption, IL 62510
Hi there, I'm Kimberly. Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the many different roles you play? At any given point during your day, you might be a spouse, a parent, a friend, a professional, a student, a sibling, a son, a daughter, or an individual. Life can throw a lot of different types of demands on us. If you've ever felt stressed or confused trying to navigate all these roles, you don't have to do it alone. I'm here to help. I am experienced working with young and middle-aged adults facing significant life transitions, pregnancy and postpartum issues, and suffering from anxiety and depression.
Hi there, I'm Kimberly. Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the many different roles you play? At any given point during your day, you might be a spouse, a parent, a friend, a professional, a student, a sibling, a son, a daughter, or an individual. Life can throw a lot of different types of demands on us. If you've ever felt stressed or confused trying to navigate all these roles, you don't have to do it alone. I'm here to help. I am experienced working with young and middle-aged adults facing significant life transitions, pregnancy and postpartum issues, and suffering from anxiety and depression.
(630) 345-4728 View (630) 345-4728
Photo of Nashat Ali, LCPC
Nashat Ali
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Macon, IL 62544
My name is Dr. Nashat Shams, and I'm a physician and a Health Psychologist who has worked in this industry since 2005. I have vast experience in counseling individuals with diverse cultural backgrounds and with different age groups. I don't treat diagnoses but clients with compassion and empathy. My interventional approach is CBT, Mindful, and TEAM-CBT. Due to my family background, I'm sensitive to and respectful of various cultures and social backgrounds. I started the journey as a physician and finally became a Ph.D. clinician as I found that the human body cannot be treated without having a healthy mind.
My name is Dr. Nashat Shams, and I'm a physician and a Health Psychologist who has worked in this industry since 2005. I have vast experience in counseling individuals with diverse cultural backgrounds and with different age groups. I don't treat diagnoses but clients with compassion and empathy. My interventional approach is CBT, Mindful, and TEAM-CBT. Due to my family background, I'm sensitive to and respectful of various cultures and social backgrounds. I started the journey as a physician and finally became a Ph.D. clinician as I found that the human body cannot be treated without having a healthy mind.
(309) 761-5695 View (309) 761-5695
Photo of Claire Benton - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Decatur, Marriage & Family Therapist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Decatur
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Macon, IL 62544
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Decatur understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Decatur understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(217) 335-4378 View (217) 335-4378
Photo of Jennifer L Jackson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer L Jackson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Macon, IL 62544
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Brandon Aguillard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Aguillard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blue Mound, IL 62513
We all possess the ability for healing, growth, and self-development. Sometimes our efforts toward improvement need helpful nudges. As a therapist, I hope to join you on your journey in the here and now, walking alongside you, the challenges you face, and the growth you hope to experience. Of course, self-healing can be done alone, yet sometimes a therapist can be a helpful addition.
We all possess the ability for healing, growth, and self-development. Sometimes our efforts toward improvement need helpful nudges. As a therapist, I hope to join you on your journey in the here and now, walking alongside you, the challenges you face, and the growth you hope to experience. Of course, self-healing can be done alone, yet sometimes a therapist can be a helpful addition.
(847) 512-3826 View (847) 512-3826

Online Therapists

Photo of Caroline Crocker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Crocker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, IL 62864  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Life is complicated. Both my professional experiences and my own life experiences have taught me this. Women in particular experience unique challenges in today's world. We are faced with pressure from many sources, both internally and externally. I specialize in working with women of all ages, including teen girls. I offer secure, confidential video sessions so you can participate in therapy from the comfort of your home. As women we are often so busy with other responsibilities, that we put ourselves on the back burner. This is an opportunity to take care of you! You deserve it!
Accepting New Clients! Life is complicated. Both my professional experiences and my own life experiences have taught me this. Women in particular experience unique challenges in today's world. We are faced with pressure from many sources, both internally and externally. I specialize in working with women of all ages, including teen girls. I offer secure, confidential video sessions so you can participate in therapy from the comfort of your home. As women we are often so busy with other responsibilities, that we put ourselves on the back burner. This is an opportunity to take care of you! You deserve it!
(618) 441-4544 View (618) 441-4544
Photo of Katie Ober, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Ober
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, my name is Katie! I provide counseling to children, adolescents, and adults facing a variety of issues related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, interpersonal relationships, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping others reach their goals and flourish mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Hello, my name is Katie! I provide counseling to children, adolescents, and adults facing a variety of issues related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, interpersonal relationships, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping others reach their goals and flourish mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
(618) 892-6752 View (618) 892-6752
Photo of Kayla Adams, MA, LCPC
Kayla Adams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Swansea, IL 62226
If you are experiencing areas in your life you want to see improvement, I am here to support you on that journey. Together we can set goals and develop strategies to enhance your day-to-day functioning. Through fostering a trusting therapeutic alliance, you can feel empowered to embark on a journey of healing and personal growth.
If you are experiencing areas in your life you want to see improvement, I am here to support you on that journey. Together we can set goals and develop strategies to enhance your day-to-day functioning. Through fostering a trusting therapeutic alliance, you can feel empowered to embark on a journey of healing and personal growth.
(618) 205-9673 View (618) 205-9673
Photo of Cassandra Laskowski, MA, CADC, LCPC, CKAP, Counselor
Cassandra Laskowski
Counselor, MA, CADC, LCPC, CKAP
Verified Verified
Maroa, IL 61756
Are you wandering in the dark of depression alone? Do you feel anxious and lost? Are you struggling with childhood trauma? I am a licensed therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I focus my work with compassion, empathy, and growth. I help individuals understand feelings of exclusion and loneliness, difficulties with attachment, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I work particularly well with helping-professionals, queer-identified individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergence, and anxiety/depression. With my unique clinical perspective, we can help you heal so you don't have to be in the dark anymore.
Are you wandering in the dark of depression alone? Do you feel anxious and lost? Are you struggling with childhood trauma? I am a licensed therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I focus my work with compassion, empathy, and growth. I help individuals understand feelings of exclusion and loneliness, difficulties with attachment, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I work particularly well with helping-professionals, queer-identified individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergence, and anxiety/depression. With my unique clinical perspective, we can help you heal so you don't have to be in the dark anymore.
(217) 302-8215 View (217) 302-8215
Photo of Liz Fultz, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, NCC, Counselor
Liz Fultz
Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
Contrary to what many people believe, not all adversity is bad. Over coming challenges produces strength in character, improves competency and leads to joy. Trauma occurs when adversity in life outweighs our available resources. As a EMDR and Trauma Certified therapist, I also incorporate techniques informed by the Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) & Somatic Experiencing (SE) for a bottom up approach. However, my main goal is to remind you of what we all intuitively know - that healing can only happen within the context of emotionally safe relationships. You are safe here.
Contrary to what many people believe, not all adversity is bad. Over coming challenges produces strength in character, improves competency and leads to joy. Trauma occurs when adversity in life outweighs our available resources. As a EMDR and Trauma Certified therapist, I also incorporate techniques informed by the Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) & Somatic Experiencing (SE) for a bottom up approach. However, my main goal is to remind you of what we all intuitively know - that healing can only happen within the context of emotionally safe relationships. You are safe here.
(304) 407-6445 View (304) 407-6445
Photo of Lisa Albaugh, MS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Albaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired of thinking and feeling the way you do? If you are ready for a change, let’s talk. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of successful therapy. I view our relationship as collaborative. You will always be the expert on you while I bring my background, training, and 20+ years of experience to help you approach life in a different way.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you tired of thinking and feeling the way you do? If you are ready for a change, let’s talk. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important part of successful therapy. I view our relationship as collaborative. You will always be the expert on you while I bring my background, training, and 20+ years of experience to help you approach life in a different way.
(309) 322-7622 View (309) 322-7622
Photo of Megan Stickelmaier - Megan Stickelmaier Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Stickelmaier Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
(309) 271-1034 View (309) 271-1034
Photo of Shane G Young - Neurotherapy Institute/ Chapin & Russell Assocs, MA, NCC, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neurotherapy Institute/ Chapin & Russell Assocs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
As a trained Neurotherapist, I work with individuals struggling with symptoms such as; depression, anxiety, sleep problems, brain fog, suicidal thoughts, migraines, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, just to name a few. Neurofeedback is an advanced computer-based technology that's been validated to balance and optimize the brain. Many argue that Neurofeedback is the safest and most effective form of treatment for mental health conditions. Neurofeedback is non-invasive, interactive, fun, and a medication-free option that helps you retrain and strengthen your brain. The benefits continue long after the sessions have ended.
As a trained Neurotherapist, I work with individuals struggling with symptoms such as; depression, anxiety, sleep problems, brain fog, suicidal thoughts, migraines, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, just to name a few. Neurofeedback is an advanced computer-based technology that's been validated to balance and optimize the brain. Many argue that Neurofeedback is the safest and most effective form of treatment for mental health conditions. Neurofeedback is non-invasive, interactive, fun, and a medication-free option that helps you retrain and strengthen your brain. The benefits continue long after the sessions have ended.
(309) 245-6121 View (309) 245-6121
Photo of Sedellia Strobel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sedellia Strobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
Accepting new clients! My passion is working with children and adolescents that have experienced trauma and assisting them in identifying their strengths to achieve progress. I additionally assist with behavioral struggles, ADHD, anxiety, and many others. I also work with parents and families to build knowledge, education, and support for child!
(217) 795-8616 View (217) 795-8616
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 Elizabeth Heid, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Heid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
As a therapist, I strive to partner with my clients in a compassionate manner in order to help create positive and meaningful changes. We live in a society with increasing demands and stress. I believe everyone can benefit from taking time to focus on their own emotional well-being through therapy services. Whether you're looking for support during a difficult time or need to process experiences from your past, I am here to join you in your healing process. I work with adolescents, adults, and families experiencing a variety of challenges.
As a therapist, I strive to partner with my clients in a compassionate manner in order to help create positive and meaningful changes. We live in a society with increasing demands and stress. I believe everyone can benefit from taking time to focus on their own emotional well-being through therapy services. Whether you're looking for support during a difficult time or need to process experiences from your past, I am here to join you in your healing process. I work with adolescents, adults, and families experiencing a variety of challenges.
View
Photo of Mary Bragg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Bragg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Mary Bragg is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Mary works with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. Her specializes include anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, grief, life transitions, trauma, and coping.
Mary Bragg is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Mary works with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. Her specializes include anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, grief, life transitions, trauma, and coping.
(217) 203-8194 View (217) 203-8194

See more therapy options for Radford

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Radford, IL

< 10

Therapists in Radford, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Coping Skills
100% Self Esteem
100% Women's Issues
100% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Therapists in Radford, 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 Radford?

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.