Therapists in Billings, MT

Photo of Kathleen J. Wagner, Psychotherapy Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kathleen J. Wagner, Psychotherapy Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59106
I love working with my clients in the relational field with a goal of undoing aloneness. We will work together to identify defenses and blocks that prevent wholehearted, healthy living. With a goal of transformational change using client-centered attachment based therapy processes for a variety of mental health concerns. I specialize in the treatment of trauma induced syndromes. I primarily see adults; considering each individual, their goals and needs and seeking feedback to ensure that a therapeutic alliance can be fostered and make every effort to maintain that connection.
I love working with my clients in the relational field with a goal of undoing aloneness. We will work together to identify defenses and blocks that prevent wholehearted, healthy living. With a goal of transformational change using client-centered attachment based therapy processes for a variety of mental health concerns. I specialize in the treatment of trauma induced syndromes. I primarily see adults; considering each individual, their goals and needs and seeking feedback to ensure that a therapeutic alliance can be fostered and make every effort to maintain that connection.
(406) 551-9560 View (406) 551-9560
Moving Forward Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Extensive experience working with substance abuse issues, thinking errors, anger management and assisting in development of recovery programs. Moving forward one step at a time.
Extensive experience working with substance abuse issues, thinking errors, anger management and assisting in development of recovery programs. Moving forward one step at a time.
(406) 802-5748 View (406) 802-5748
Photo of Jennifer Finn (Sentinel Mental Health), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Jennifer Finn (Sentinel Mental Health)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I believe that strength is not defined by burying our feelings, “keeping your chin up,” or other cliche sayings that encourage silence. True strength is being vulnerable, talking about how you feel, and yes, asking for help. If you are ready to look at whatever is hurting you, whatever is interfering in your relationships, and whatever is keeping you from the life that you want to live, THAT is strength and where your true power lies.
I believe that strength is not defined by burying our feelings, “keeping your chin up,” or other cliche sayings that encourage silence. True strength is being vulnerable, talking about how you feel, and yes, asking for help. If you are ready to look at whatever is hurting you, whatever is interfering in your relationships, and whatever is keeping you from the life that you want to live, THAT is strength and where your true power lies.
(406) 393-8443 View (406) 393-8443
Photo of Denise Schumacher, Pre-Licensed Professional in Billings, MT
Denise Schumacher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
We all have a story to share that does not have to be defined by our past. You have what it takes to write the next chapter of your life. I would consider it a privilege for you to allow me to walk alongside you and support you as you begin this journey of healing. You are not alone. Together we can address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. These concerns manifest differently for everyone. In my work I will draw from aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems and others to make this time suit you.
We all have a story to share that does not have to be defined by our past. You have what it takes to write the next chapter of your life. I would consider it a privilege for you to allow me to walk alongside you and support you as you begin this journey of healing. You are not alone. Together we can address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. These concerns manifest differently for everyone. In my work I will draw from aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems and others to make this time suit you.
(406) 852-5835 View (406) 852-5835
Danielle Eldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in work with children and their families. I primarily work with children between the ages of 2-12. I seek to individualize therapy according to a child's age and developmental level and to take into consideration each child and families individual strengths and needs. I have experience working with a broad range of issues and treatment modalities. I specialize in supporting parents in dealing with severe emotional and behavioral challenges, trauma, parental separation/reunification and working with children in foster and adoptive families.
I specialize in work with children and their families. I primarily work with children between the ages of 2-12. I seek to individualize therapy according to a child's age and developmental level and to take into consideration each child and families individual strengths and needs. I have experience working with a broad range of issues and treatment modalities. I specialize in supporting parents in dealing with severe emotional and behavioral challenges, trauma, parental separation/reunification and working with children in foster and adoptive families.
(406) 284-0711 View (406) 284-0711
Photo of Kristi Lindell Elliott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kristi Lindell Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSED
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
My entire adult life I have worked with children and their families as a professional teacher and now a therapist. I easily relate to all ages - children, adolescents, teens, and adults. I understand how important working with families and schools can be for the mental health of the child. As a teacher for over 20 years, I understand burnout, the inner-workings of schools, and the importance of the personnels' mental health and self care. Plus, over 16 years experience with child-rearing, elderly parental care, end of life choices, adult social services, and grief and bereavement therapies for children and adults.
My entire adult life I have worked with children and their families as a professional teacher and now a therapist. I easily relate to all ages - children, adolescents, teens, and adults. I understand how important working with families and schools can be for the mental health of the child. As a teacher for over 20 years, I understand burnout, the inner-workings of schools, and the importance of the personnels' mental health and self care. Plus, over 16 years experience with child-rearing, elderly parental care, end of life choices, adult social services, and grief and bereavement therapies for children and adults.
(406) 641-7027 View (406) 641-7027
Photo of Adam Chiappone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Adam Chiappone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
We are living through a time of great anxiety and uncertainty. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can explore patterns that may be preventing you from moving forward in your relationships, work, and life. I utilize a variety of techniques to help free you from the self-defeating behavior patterns that keep you stuck. The goal of our working together is to reduce your distress, give you tools to solve problems in a healthy way, and heal the wounds of the past so that you can live a happier, more fulfilling life.
We are living through a time of great anxiety and uncertainty. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can explore patterns that may be preventing you from moving forward in your relationships, work, and life. I utilize a variety of techniques to help free you from the self-defeating behavior patterns that keep you stuck. The goal of our working together is to reduce your distress, give you tools to solve problems in a healthy way, and heal the wounds of the past so that you can live a happier, more fulfilling life.
(406) 606-4062 View (406) 606-4062
Photo of Breanne Lewis, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Billings, MT
Breanne Lewis
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I have over seven years of experience in dealing with those who suffer from addiction, severe mental illness and other diseases. I have worked as a case manager for both adults and youth which allows me to have a big picture mindset when it comes to the barriers and struggles that clients are having to cope with the struggles of today. My passion is to help others find themselves again. You have the power to break free.
I have over seven years of experience in dealing with those who suffer from addiction, severe mental illness and other diseases. I have worked as a case manager for both adults and youth which allows me to have a big picture mindset when it comes to the barriers and struggles that clients are having to cope with the struggles of today. My passion is to help others find themselves again. You have the power to break free.
(406) 964-4308 View (406) 964-4308
Photo of Laura Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Laura Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
Drawing from eight years of professional expertise, Laura creates a safe space for clients to talk about difficult experiences and uses evidence-based practices tailored to each individual. She specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicide prevention, and crisis intervention. Her passion for helping others stems from a lifelong desire to provide unbiased support and a comforting presence during tough times. Laura works with diverse populations across Montana, including Native American communities.
Drawing from eight years of professional expertise, Laura creates a safe space for clients to talk about difficult experiences and uses evidence-based practices tailored to each individual. She specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicide prevention, and crisis intervention. Her passion for helping others stems from a lifelong desire to provide unbiased support and a comforting presence during tough times. Laura works with diverse populations across Montana, including Native American communities.
(406) 380-3118 View (406) 380-3118
Photo of Signal Point Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Signal Point Counseling, LLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Are you looking for a safe & affirming environment to explore options, define personal success, & begin the healing process? Do you want to learn new tools for managing stress & difficult emotions? Are you searching for ways to feel more empowered? SPC works with clients of all ages, gender identifications, & backgrounds and specializes in mood disorders, trauma, grief, & life transitions counseling. SPC is culturally sensitive & provides an accepting & supporting atmosphere for LGBTQIA2S+ & BIPOC clients. SPC also offers preparation & integration services for psychedelic-assisted therapy treatments.
Are you looking for a safe & affirming environment to explore options, define personal success, & begin the healing process? Do you want to learn new tools for managing stress & difficult emotions? Are you searching for ways to feel more empowered? SPC works with clients of all ages, gender identifications, & backgrounds and specializes in mood disorders, trauma, grief, & life transitions counseling. SPC is culturally sensitive & provides an accepting & supporting atmosphere for LGBTQIA2S+ & BIPOC clients. SPC also offers preparation & integration services for psychedelic-assisted therapy treatments.
(406) 534-5230 View (406) 534-5230
Photo of Aspen Practice, P.C., dba Michael R. Bütz, Ph.D., Psychologist in Billings, MT
Aspen Practice, P.C., dba Michael R. Bütz, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Dr. Bütz has been a licensed psychologist for over twenty years, working both in executive management and conducting clinical, forensic and neuropsychological work. During the fall of 2015, Dr. Bütz moved his clinical and neuropsychoogical practice to St. Vincent Healthcare Behavioral Health Associates and maintained his forensic practice under Aspen Practice, P.C.
Dr. Bütz has been a licensed psychologist for over twenty years, working both in executive management and conducting clinical, forensic and neuropsychological work. During the fall of 2015, Dr. Bütz moved his clinical and neuropsychoogical practice to St. Vincent Healthcare Behavioral Health Associates and maintained his forensic practice under Aspen Practice, P.C.
(406) 948-4419 View (406) 948-4419
Photo of Hannah Tippett, Counselor in Billings, MT
Hannah Tippett
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Past experiences and traumas (including those in childhood) can create an internal fragmentation of self - disconnecting us from our inherent wholeness and worth, and causing us to view and experience life as something to be survived rather than lived. This can manifest in emotional suppression, dissociation, feelings of worthlessness, relationship difficulties with self and others, lack of bodily autonomy and safety, repressed grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, etc. Healing through these experiences will require you to make the courageous journey back home to your heart and soul - back to the very essence of You.
Past experiences and traumas (including those in childhood) can create an internal fragmentation of self - disconnecting us from our inherent wholeness and worth, and causing us to view and experience life as something to be survived rather than lived. This can manifest in emotional suppression, dissociation, feelings of worthlessness, relationship difficulties with self and others, lack of bodily autonomy and safety, repressed grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, etc. Healing through these experiences will require you to make the courageous journey back home to your heart and soul - back to the very essence of You.
(406) 641-7632 View (406) 641-7632
Photo of Lyle Seavy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Lyle Seavy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
If I am given the privilege of working with you I will spend time getting to know you , your fears, your goals, and the behaviors that you are troubled by. We will work together to set goals and utilize CBT to help you become mindful of your thoughts, behaviors and emotions so that over time you will be able to find the path you are looking for and come to the decision that you no longer need my help. My work with you will always be solution and goal focused and we will keep track of your success as we work.
If I am given the privilege of working with you I will spend time getting to know you , your fears, your goals, and the behaviors that you are troubled by. We will work together to set goals and utilize CBT to help you become mindful of your thoughts, behaviors and emotions so that over time you will be able to find the path you are looking for and come to the decision that you no longer need my help. My work with you will always be solution and goal focused and we will keep track of your success as we work.
(406) 296-5086 View (406) 296-5086
Photo of Crystal Skies Counseling / Amy Vicars, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Crystal Skies Counseling / Amy Vicars
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I'm a professional mental health/addictions therapist working with adult clients. I utilize a trauma informed and client centered approach to therapy. Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, stress, trauma, or other concerns, I am here to help guide you on your journey with a caring and empathetic approach.
I'm a professional mental health/addictions therapist working with adult clients. I utilize a trauma informed and client centered approach to therapy. Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, stress, trauma, or other concerns, I am here to help guide you on your journey with a caring and empathetic approach.
(406) 559-3341 View (406) 559-3341
Photo of Rebecca Baumgardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Rebecca Baumgardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a dually Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. Perhaps you have arrived here, looking for a way to better manage a difficult situation or season of life, to work through life altering grief/loss, to manage uncomfortable symptoms, or maybe even, to heal from a painful past with the hope of finally feeling free. I truly enjoy working with individuals who are committed to knowing themselves on a deeper level, so they are better equipped to make the changes they hope for in their life. I value human connection, and provide care in a shame free, judgment free, and collaborative way.
Hello! I am a dually Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. Perhaps you have arrived here, looking for a way to better manage a difficult situation or season of life, to work through life altering grief/loss, to manage uncomfortable symptoms, or maybe even, to heal from a painful past with the hope of finally feeling free. I truly enjoy working with individuals who are committed to knowing themselves on a deeper level, so they are better equipped to make the changes they hope for in their life. I value human connection, and provide care in a shame free, judgment free, and collaborative way.
(406) 631-1974 View (406) 631-1974
Photo of Brian Schuppe, Counselor in Billings, MT
Brian Schuppe
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Do you find yourself in many high conflict situations at home, work, and in the community? Military, educational, and life experiences have resulted in my deep knowledge base for working with adults who've experienced trauma and stress. I have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Therapy (SMART), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These modalities assist in providing well-rounded counseling services for those with PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, relationship, career, parenting, and family issues.
Do you find yourself in many high conflict situations at home, work, and in the community? Military, educational, and life experiences have resulted in my deep knowledge base for working with adults who've experienced trauma and stress. I have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Therapy (SMART), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These modalities assist in providing well-rounded counseling services for those with PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, relationship, career, parenting, and family issues.
(406) 284-0969 View (406) 284-0969
Photo of Samantha Kessler, Counselor in Billings, MT
Samantha Kessler
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LMHC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Hawaii, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of a Montana and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Wyoming. I have certifications as a Clinical Telemental Health Provider (CTMH) as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I have over a decade of experience working in a variety of fields, including trauma, early childhood development, child and adolescent crisis, intensive-in-home family therapy, and private practice working with children, adolescents, families, couples and first responders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Hawaii, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of a Montana and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Wyoming. I have certifications as a Clinical Telemental Health Provider (CTMH) as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I have over a decade of experience working in a variety of fields, including trauma, early childhood development, child and adolescent crisis, intensive-in-home family therapy, and private practice working with children, adolescents, families, couples and first responders.
(406) 380-4585 View (406) 380-4585
Photo of Veronica Olsen, Counselor in Billings, MT
Veronica Olsen
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts? As a licensed counselor, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of counseling. Through counseling, individuals can gain valuable insight, develop coping skills, and experience emotional healing. Together, we can work towards building resilience, improving relationships, and fostering a sense of empowerment. If you're ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consult with me. You deserve to live a fulfilling and balanced life, and I am here to support you on that journey.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts? As a licensed counselor, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of counseling. Through counseling, individuals can gain valuable insight, develop coping skills, and experience emotional healing. Together, we can work towards building resilience, improving relationships, and fostering a sense of empowerment. If you're ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consult with me. You deserve to live a fulfilling and balanced life, and I am here to support you on that journey.
(406) 282-8325 View (406) 282-8325
Photo of Cynthia Vlahos Palmer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Cynthia Vlahos Palmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSC , LCPC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(406) 272-7935 View (406) 272-7935
Photo of Marlayne Worthington, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Marlayne Worthington
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
While we all strive to live a life full of joy, excitement, success and fulfillment, we all encounter times when our plans for ourselves get derailed. Some may struggle with relationships, mental illness, trauma, tragedy or life stage transitions. We all need some help during these times to help get back on the path to wellness and happiness. I believe that while these trials are difficult, they can also be used as stepping stones to help us become a better version of ourselves. How we face our challenges gives us the opportunity for personal growth. I would love to be the one to help you with that process.
While we all strive to live a life full of joy, excitement, success and fulfillment, we all encounter times when our plans for ourselves get derailed. Some may struggle with relationships, mental illness, trauma, tragedy or life stage transitions. We all need some help during these times to help get back on the path to wellness and happiness. I believe that while these trials are difficult, they can also be used as stepping stones to help us become a better version of ourselves. How we face our challenges gives us the opportunity for personal growth. I would love to be the one to help you with that process.
(406) 282-8018 View (406) 282-8018

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Billings, MT

200+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Billings, MT who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
74% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Allegiance
73% PacificSource

How Therapists in Billings, MT see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Billings?

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.