Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

View neighborhoods in Indianapolis
Photo of Stanley Bryant, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stanley Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I have experience helping people who struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar, grief, stress, trauma, and other difficulties. I help people navigate difficult life transitions.
I have experience helping people who struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar, grief, stress, trauma, and other difficulties. I help people navigate difficult life transitions.
(463) 282-2225 View (463) 282-2225
Photo of Patrick Hoekstra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick Hoekstra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Patrick Hoekstra, and I am a LCSW in the state of Indiana. I have been practicing since 2016 in Michigan and Indiana. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches as I feel it helps the client achieve their goals quickly by changing how we are thinking to external stimulus. My approach to therapy is a partnership approach where the client and I guide the treatment and each session. I push my clients with love to reach their full potential and to reach their personal goals. I have a lot of experience working with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and etc.
Hi, my name is Patrick Hoekstra, and I am a LCSW in the state of Indiana. I have been practicing since 2016 in Michigan and Indiana. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches as I feel it helps the client achieve their goals quickly by changing how we are thinking to external stimulus. My approach to therapy is a partnership approach where the client and I guide the treatment and each session. I push my clients with love to reach their full potential and to reach their personal goals. I have a lot of experience working with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and etc.
(463) 263-8613 View (463) 263-8613
Photo of Jerry Wheeler Jr, LMHC, Counselor
Jerry Wheeler Jr
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You want something to change, but don't know where to start. Maybe it's how you feel: Sometimes your thoughts, feelings, emotions, stories, and sensations try to get in the way of moving toward what's meaningful to you. Maybe it's how your relationship feels: Sometimes the communication patterns between the two of you can erode trust and commitment, leaving your relationship bond damaged or broken. Maybe you're haunted by your past: Like broken glass, many traumatic memories can be fragmented and jagged, stored in your mind and body, emotionally wounding you over and over again, until you're left dejected and exhausted.
You want something to change, but don't know where to start. Maybe it's how you feel: Sometimes your thoughts, feelings, emotions, stories, and sensations try to get in the way of moving toward what's meaningful to you. Maybe it's how your relationship feels: Sometimes the communication patterns between the two of you can erode trust and commitment, leaving your relationship bond damaged or broken. Maybe you're haunted by your past: Like broken glass, many traumatic memories can be fragmented and jagged, stored in your mind and body, emotionally wounding you over and over again, until you're left dejected and exhausted.
(765) 523-8934 View (765) 523-8934
Photo of Tracie Tullus, MACP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracie Tullus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
A motivator, my clients can count on me to be in their corner but also challenge them in ways they didn't know they could be successful. Mental health is a journey. I come along side you to support, guide, and encourage you to dig deeper and grow to the potential you wish to reach.
A motivator, my clients can count on me to be in their corner but also challenge them in ways they didn't know they could be successful. Mental health is a journey. I come along side you to support, guide, and encourage you to dig deeper and grow to the potential you wish to reach.
(317) 699-7405 View (317) 699-7405
Photo of Colleen M Caito, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Colleen M Caito
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am so excited to announce that I have added a new service to my practice. I have developed a four-week program to teach you the skills and provide the support, structure, and accountability to make these changes. In four weeks, you will have the ability and foundational skills to challenge your negative belief systems, discontinue the use of maladaptive coping skills, and develop and implement new coping skills and a new belief system that will allow you to thrive in your environment and address any challenges you face in life with confidence. This program is FSA/HSA eligible.
I am so excited to announce that I have added a new service to my practice. I have developed a four-week program to teach you the skills and provide the support, structure, and accountability to make these changes. In four weeks, you will have the ability and foundational skills to challenge your negative belief systems, discontinue the use of maladaptive coping skills, and develop and implement new coping skills and a new belief system that will allow you to thrive in your environment and address any challenges you face in life with confidence. This program is FSA/HSA eligible.
(317) 743-7323 View (317) 743-7323
Photo of Juanette Plato, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Juanette Plato
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Juanette Plato, LMHC, offers compassionate and tailored counseling services to individuals and couples in Indiana. With a clientcentered approach, Juanette employs an eclectic mix of therapeutic techniques to address a wide range of concerns, empowering her clients to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and insight. Specializing in trauma recovery, Juanette is deeply passionate about helping individuals overcome the lingering effects of past experiences, guiding them towards healing and emotional freedom.
Juanette Plato, LMHC, offers compassionate and tailored counseling services to individuals and couples in Indiana. With a clientcentered approach, Juanette employs an eclectic mix of therapeutic techniques to address a wide range of concerns, empowering her clients to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and insight. Specializing in trauma recovery, Juanette is deeply passionate about helping individuals overcome the lingering effects of past experiences, guiding them towards healing and emotional freedom.
(463) 285-8782 View (463) 285-8782
Photo of Sofia Veraldi, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Sofia Veraldi
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
My approach to therapy stems from an attachment theory and psychodynamic background both with individuals and couples. In our work together we will unpack problems, address stresses and anxiety, and create resiliency you can take into your future. I tailor talk therapy strategies to each client to take into consideration their unique life experiences and therapeutic goals. I take this same approach with the couples I see, using Imago Relationship Therapy. In couples therapy you can expect to increase your understanding of your partner and learn new ways to communicate with each other that feel connecting.
My approach to therapy stems from an attachment theory and psychodynamic background both with individuals and couples. In our work together we will unpack problems, address stresses and anxiety, and create resiliency you can take into your future. I tailor talk therapy strategies to each client to take into consideration their unique life experiences and therapeutic goals. I take this same approach with the couples I see, using Imago Relationship Therapy. In couples therapy you can expect to increase your understanding of your partner and learn new ways to communicate with each other that feel connecting.
(463) 241-3565 View (463) 241-3565
Photo of Dr. Jennifer McChristian - Compass to The Crest, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compass to The Crest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46239
Welcome to Compass to The Crest. We are accepting new patients in Arizona, Indiana and Texas. We are a comprehensive mental and behavioral health organization that serves diverse individuals from a diverse perspective. I am the primary therapist and I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step towards healing and growth. With licenses in AZ, IN, NM, NV, and TX and a commitment to person-centered, evidence-based therapy, Our therapists and coaches are here to offer you a safe haven on your journey.
Welcome to Compass to The Crest. We are accepting new patients in Arizona, Indiana and Texas. We are a comprehensive mental and behavioral health organization that serves diverse individuals from a diverse perspective. I am the primary therapist and I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step towards healing and growth. With licenses in AZ, IN, NM, NV, and TX and a commitment to person-centered, evidence-based therapy, Our therapists and coaches are here to offer you a safe haven on your journey.
View
Photo of Nathan Lingo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan Lingo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Nate Lingo, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for the past 10 years. I am working with clients throughout the State of Indiana. I am a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV), where I lived in Mongolia for 2 years. I work with young to middle-aged adults and specialize in stress, anxiety, depression along with BPD, eating disorders, and relationship distress. I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Adventure Therapy (AT), and The Gottman Method.
My name is Nate Lingo, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for the past 10 years. I am working with clients throughout the State of Indiana. I am a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV), where I lived in Mongolia for 2 years. I work with young to middle-aged adults and specialize in stress, anxiety, depression along with BPD, eating disorders, and relationship distress. I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Adventure Therapy (AT), and The Gottman Method.
(463) 500-1141 View (463) 500-1141
Photo of Anna Ellis, LMHC, Counselor
Anna Ellis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am Anna Ellis a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (39004969A) in the state of Indiana and a National Certified Counselor. I am also a Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider and Gottman level 3 trained. My approach with clients tends to be pretty down to Earth and more conversational rather than worksheets and homework. I like to cater the environment to the needs of each individual client, yet I tend to be a bit laid back and utilize talk and peer support techniques when working with clients. I believe we all know what is needed to heal in the end, we just at times need to have someone who is unbiased to walk with
Hello, I am Anna Ellis a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (39004969A) in the state of Indiana and a National Certified Counselor. I am also a Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider and Gottman level 3 trained. My approach with clients tends to be pretty down to Earth and more conversational rather than worksheets and homework. I like to cater the environment to the needs of each individual client, yet I tend to be a bit laid back and utilize talk and peer support techniques when working with clients. I believe we all know what is needed to heal in the end, we just at times need to have someone who is unbiased to walk with
(765) 590-4155 View (765) 590-4155
Photo of Jamarra M Smith-Massey, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jamarra M Smith-Massey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46203
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I am Jamarra! Are you struggling with maintaining the relationships in your life? Are you seeking to find peace? Striving to enter an era of healing in your life? Looking to improve your self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-awareness? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, and/or sad? Struggling to make it through the day, and feeling as if there are not enough hours in a day? I would love to work with you!
Hi, I am Jamarra! Are you struggling with maintaining the relationships in your life? Are you seeking to find peace? Striving to enter an era of healing in your life? Looking to improve your self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-awareness? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, and/or sad? Struggling to make it through the day, and feeling as if there are not enough hours in a day? I would love to work with you!
(463) 666-2564 View (463) 666-2564
Photo of Lynell W Cooper, MSW, LCSW, BIP-SF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynell W Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BIP-SF
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with youth, adults, and families. I have a community based practice and virtual option. I can assist with relationship conflicts, addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, impulse control, and substance abuse. My expertise spans a wide range of treatment types for young and middle age adults. I supervise a team of clinicians that also see children. I offer a non-judgmental space focused on your goals and growth. I accept most insurance and self pay. I am telehealth only. If you're ready for change, contact me to start your journey towards healthier relationships and mental wellness.
I specialize in working with youth, adults, and families. I have a community based practice and virtual option. I can assist with relationship conflicts, addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, impulse control, and substance abuse. My expertise spans a wide range of treatment types for young and middle age adults. I supervise a team of clinicians that also see children. I offer a non-judgmental space focused on your goals and growth. I accept most insurance and self pay. I am telehealth only. If you're ready for change, contact me to start your journey towards healthier relationships and mental wellness.
(317) 350-1665 View (317) 350-1665
Photo of Thania Hernandez, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thania Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Thania! I have a Master's in Mental Health Counseling and am currently pursuing my doctorate degree. Do you find yourself feeling stuck due to painful emotions and life stressors? It is easy to become lost in pain, but I assure you there is a way out! With therapy, it is possible to find the peace, love, and joy you long for. I can support you through this challenging time by providing a comfortable and accepting space for you to process challenging emotions and hurtful situations, while I teach techniques that can help to improve management of stressors while decreasing feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger.
Hi, I'm Thania! I have a Master's in Mental Health Counseling and am currently pursuing my doctorate degree. Do you find yourself feeling stuck due to painful emotions and life stressors? It is easy to become lost in pain, but I assure you there is a way out! With therapy, it is possible to find the peace, love, and joy you long for. I can support you through this challenging time by providing a comfortable and accepting space for you to process challenging emotions and hurtful situations, while I teach techniques that can help to improve management of stressors while decreasing feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger.
(463) 219-2362 View (463) 219-2362
Photo of Julia Lieberman - Lieberman Counseling Services, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lieberman Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
People want to find meaning and direction in their lives. Yet, sometimes this can be obscured by intrusive thoughts, whether from stress, anxiety and/or depression. This, in turn, can result in behaviors that keep people from living their most fulfilled life. My passion is helping people live more meaningful lives. I have broad experience helping with people who have trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, low self-esteem, life transitions, and substance use disorders. Although I offer services to all ages, I primarily work with teens and adults.
People want to find meaning and direction in their lives. Yet, sometimes this can be obscured by intrusive thoughts, whether from stress, anxiety and/or depression. This, in turn, can result in behaviors that keep people from living their most fulfilled life. My passion is helping people live more meaningful lives. I have broad experience helping with people who have trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, low self-esteem, life transitions, and substance use disorders. Although I offer services to all ages, I primarily work with teens and adults.
(463) 259-6259 View (463) 259-6259
Photo of Brooke Neubaum, LMHCA, ATR-P, Counselor
Brooke Neubaum
Counselor, LMHCA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Are you tired from living in a world that doesn't make room for you to be your authentic self? Have experiences of oppression left you feeling hurt and hopeless? It is a radical act of rebellion to decide to love yourself in a system that wants you to hate yourself. Through engaging in authentic relationship in our sessions, we can begin to say NO to a society that wants us to be something we are not, and begin to embrace our honest, true, genuine selves. I’m here to support you with mental healthcare that addresses both individual symptoms AND the broader systems (sexism, ableism, homophobia, etc.) that often affect these symptoms
Are you tired from living in a world that doesn't make room for you to be your authentic self? Have experiences of oppression left you feeling hurt and hopeless? It is a radical act of rebellion to decide to love yourself in a system that wants you to hate yourself. Through engaging in authentic relationship in our sessions, we can begin to say NO to a society that wants us to be something we are not, and begin to embrace our honest, true, genuine selves. I’m here to support you with mental healthcare that addresses both individual symptoms AND the broader systems (sexism, ableism, homophobia, etc.) that often affect these symptoms
(463) 240-3111 View (463) 240-3111
Photo of Deirdre Y Burton - Living Well Journey, LLC., LMFT, OT, BCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Living Well Journey, LLC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, OT, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you an individual desiring change, growth, or wellness in your life? Feeling stuck or stagnated? 3 John 1:2, John is a prayer for good health just as one's soul prospers. I am non-judgmental in my perspective and I utilize theoretical approaches that support individuals obtaining personal healing and wellness. By taking one carefully formulated step at a time, I will partner with you to establish personal wellness in your life.
Are you an individual desiring change, growth, or wellness in your life? Feeling stuck or stagnated? 3 John 1:2, John is a prayer for good health just as one's soul prospers. I am non-judgmental in my perspective and I utilize theoretical approaches that support individuals obtaining personal healing and wellness. By taking one carefully formulated step at a time, I will partner with you to establish personal wellness in your life.
(317) 671-8939 View (317) 671-8939
Photo of Nicole Lane-Mullins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Lane-Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in community mental health. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma and significant life changes. I also work with people across the lifespan struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationship issues, and many other adjustments that come with living life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in community mental health. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma and significant life changes. I also work with people across the lifespan struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationship issues, and many other adjustments that come with living life.
(463) 676-4553 View (463) 676-4553
Photo of Rekeya Ford, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rekeya Ford
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The reward of therapy is profound and enduring. It is the gift of self-discovery, resilience, and an enriched understanding of the human experience. One of the greatest aspects of therapy is the gradual realization that healing is not synonymous with erasing scars; rather, it is an acceptance of the scars as integral parts of a unique narrative. Trust in the power within to rewrite your story with resilience and self-compassion. The reward is deeply rooted within!
The reward of therapy is profound and enduring. It is the gift of self-discovery, resilience, and an enriched understanding of the human experience. One of the greatest aspects of therapy is the gradual realization that healing is not synonymous with erasing scars; rather, it is an acceptance of the scars as integral parts of a unique narrative. Trust in the power within to rewrite your story with resilience and self-compassion. The reward is deeply rooted within!
(317) 827-7528 View (317) 827-7528
Photo of Beth Kelleher, MFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Beth Kelleher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46217
The therapy room is special to me because it's often the first place we can slow down and sort out all the noise in our heads. Life moves fast and relationships are often complicated. With compassion and curiosity let's organize your thoughts, feelings, and relationship issues to ensure you're living the life you want! I am skilled at working with anxiety, ADHD, faith deconstruction, body image, couples communication, grief, and depression. As a certified yoga teacher I pay close attention to the mind/body connection as we work for more peace and balance in your life.
The therapy room is special to me because it's often the first place we can slow down and sort out all the noise in our heads. Life moves fast and relationships are often complicated. With compassion and curiosity let's organize your thoughts, feelings, and relationship issues to ensure you're living the life you want! I am skilled at working with anxiety, ADHD, faith deconstruction, body image, couples communication, grief, and depression. As a certified yoga teacher I pay close attention to the mind/body connection as we work for more peace and balance in your life.
(463) 251-7587 View (463) 251-7587
Photo of Dorothy Rutherford-Steiss, LCMHC, Counselor
Dorothy Rutherford-Steiss
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Indiana with my doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I believe that change is possible if the client is ready. Recognizing that change may be difficult, I am here to support, encourage, gently challenge, and assist my clients in their process on their journey. I primarily work with adults focusing on various concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, career/job challenges, and end-of-life concerns. I also specialize in concerns that are a result of healthcare diagnoses such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and neurocognitive issues.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Indiana with my doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I believe that change is possible if the client is ready. Recognizing that change may be difficult, I am here to support, encourage, gently challenge, and assist my clients in their process on their journey. I primarily work with adults focusing on various concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, career/job challenges, and end-of-life concerns. I also specialize in concerns that are a result of healthcare diagnoses such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and neurocognitive issues.
(765) 739-3126 View (765) 739-3126
1
...

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Indianapolis, IN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Self Esteem
68% Coping Skills
64% Stress
63% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% Anthem

How Therapists in Indianapolis, IN see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Indianapolis?

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.