Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Corey Connare, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Corey Connare
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Hey! I’m Corey and I am welcoming new clients. If you're grappling with how to feel better, navigate relationships, or work through tough times, I'm here to offer support. Whether you're looking to strengthen your connection with yourself, improve emotional flexibility, or regain motivation and inspiration, we can work on that together. Let's have a conversation and figure out practical steps to make positive changes in your life.
Hey! I’m Corey and I am welcoming new clients. If you're grappling with how to feel better, navigate relationships, or work through tough times, I'm here to offer support. Whether you're looking to strengthen your connection with yourself, improve emotional flexibility, or regain motivation and inspiration, we can work on that together. Let's have a conversation and figure out practical steps to make positive changes in your life.
(503) 455-7479 View (503) 455-7479
Photo of Michelle Block, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Michelle Block
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Dr. Block is available to support adults in their journey to parenthood. She has specialized training in the journey to parenthood that includes pregnancy, postpartum, grief and loss (miscarriage, stillbirth, child loss, loss of own parent, loss of career or other identity piece), and parenting. Anxiety, depression, ADHD relational stress, and sleep issues are a few of many areas she can support in counseling.
Dr. Block is available to support adults in their journey to parenthood. She has specialized training in the journey to parenthood that includes pregnancy, postpartum, grief and loss (miscarriage, stillbirth, child loss, loss of own parent, loss of career or other identity piece), and parenting. Anxiety, depression, ADHD relational stress, and sleep issues are a few of many areas she can support in counseling.
(503) 486-3905 View (503) 486-3905
Photo of Ashley Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Ashley Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I take a client-centered and trauma-informed approach in treatment. I also use DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). I have experience working with anxiety, stress management, depression, gender dysphoria, and trauma. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ community.
I take a client-centered and trauma-informed approach in treatment. I also use DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). I have experience working with anxiety, stress management, depression, gender dysphoria, and trauma. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ community.
(503) 300-6247 View (503) 300-6247
Photo of Trish L Gemulla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Trish L Gemulla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
My passion is helping individuals move through challenges and toward living life as their most authentic self through exploring and utilizing the personal energy and wisdom they already possess. This may include navigating significant transitions while maintaining a sense of self, finding strength and meaning in dark times, or facilitating present moment awareness and joy. Each of us has unique, complex stories which, at times, can create internal conflict, blocking us from moving forward. I work with you to accept and integrate conflictual parts of your experience and self so that you can move forward with increased self-awareness, self-appreciation and openness to experience.
(503) 676-5259 View (503) 676-5259
Photo of Roxana I Nedelcu in Portland, OR
Roxana I Nedelcu
PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I provide evidence-based treatment for children, and teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ages 2-14, and coaching to parents and teachers working with children on the spectrum. I have 20 years of experience working directly with children building communication, play, social, and academic skills. I also work with other therapists whom I oversee and consult. I am open to collaborate with other professionals and consult on any concerns related to ASD. We have immediate openings for children 2-5 who can be seen during the day.
I provide evidence-based treatment for children, and teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ages 2-14, and coaching to parents and teachers working with children on the spectrum. I have 20 years of experience working directly with children building communication, play, social, and academic skills. I also work with other therapists whom I oversee and consult. I am open to collaborate with other professionals and consult on any concerns related to ASD. We have immediate openings for children 2-5 who can be seen during the day.
(503) 479-4478 View (503) 479-4478
Photo of Nicole Lapotin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Nicole Lapotin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97230
I am passionate about supporting people as they grow into their best selves, learn to be seen for who they are rather than what they look like, and strive to accept imperfections and pain with greater self-compassion. I treat eating disorders (binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, exercise addiction), anxiety, depression, traits of borderline personality, interpersonal trauma, and relationship problems in families and couples. I believe that a collaborative and accepting relationship is needed for people to change and heal.
I am passionate about supporting people as they grow into their best selves, learn to be seen for who they are rather than what they look like, and strive to accept imperfections and pain with greater self-compassion. I treat eating disorders (binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, exercise addiction), anxiety, depression, traits of borderline personality, interpersonal trauma, and relationship problems in families and couples. I believe that a collaborative and accepting relationship is needed for people to change and heal.
(971) 302-2538 View (971) 302-2538
Photo of Tess Krakoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Tess Krakoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Sometimes it’s painful to face things about ourselves or our situations that we would rather ignore. It's worth it to face them because it gives us the opportunity to look at things from a different perspective, to ask different questions, to challenge ourselves, and ultimately to get more of what we want out of life. Understanding where we've been and how we got here is important, but in order to feel better, we often have to do something different. In therapy we can learn to identify what the options are, evaluate the risks and benefits of different options, and make the best choice for ourselves.
Sometimes it’s painful to face things about ourselves or our situations that we would rather ignore. It's worth it to face them because it gives us the opportunity to look at things from a different perspective, to ask different questions, to challenge ourselves, and ultimately to get more of what we want out of life. Understanding where we've been and how we got here is important, but in order to feel better, we often have to do something different. In therapy we can learn to identify what the options are, evaluate the risks and benefits of different options, and make the best choice for ourselves.
(503) 386-0547 View (503) 386-0547
Photo of Sheena Ino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Sheena Ino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
Thank you for being here. I am looking forward to working with you in collaboration toward embodying the life you see for yourself. I hold a deep belief that all beings inherently deserve belonging, safety, and connection. Oftentimes, shame, anger/rage, grief, apathy, guilt and overwhelm can be parts of us that need care, attention, and tending. By doing this work, it allows for us to move more fully into our lives with more curiosity, compassion, and self leadership. I work with clients seeking support with depression, generalized anxiety, stress, relationships concerns, identity exploration, and navigating life transitions.
Thank you for being here. I am looking forward to working with you in collaboration toward embodying the life you see for yourself. I hold a deep belief that all beings inherently deserve belonging, safety, and connection. Oftentimes, shame, anger/rage, grief, apathy, guilt and overwhelm can be parts of us that need care, attention, and tending. By doing this work, it allows for us to move more fully into our lives with more curiosity, compassion, and self leadership. I work with clients seeking support with depression, generalized anxiety, stress, relationships concerns, identity exploration, and navigating life transitions.
(503) 395-3962 View (503) 395-3962
Photo of Heather Washburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Heather Washburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you seeking a safe, supportive connection to help you address what is interfering with achievement of your full potential, healing and growth? My focus is to build positive therapeutic relationships with my clients, support and guide you to identify your strengths, with intention of creating constructive solutions that promote balance and hope. There are times in our lives where getting additional support can help address life's painful events, transitions, issues and/or patterns that are no longer serving us.
Are you seeking a safe, supportive connection to help you address what is interfering with achievement of your full potential, healing and growth? My focus is to build positive therapeutic relationships with my clients, support and guide you to identify your strengths, with intention of creating constructive solutions that promote balance and hope. There are times in our lives where getting additional support can help address life's painful events, transitions, issues and/or patterns that are no longer serving us.
(971) 273-5946 View (971) 273-5946
Photo of Jessica Starr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Jessica Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
Welcome. I practice from a paradigm that explores and honors all parts of us to promote healing of the body, mind, and soul. My focus is on deepening insight into thoughts, feelings, emotions, and the body's story to experience more understanding and compassion for oneself. I believe we are good enough just as we are, and I also understand that there may be patterns, behaviors and symptoms that we may want to shift to help us live fuller, more expansive, peaceful lives. My hope is to cultivate healing, through the safety and support of our therapeutic relationship, and for my clients to rediscover their own inner healer.
Welcome. I practice from a paradigm that explores and honors all parts of us to promote healing of the body, mind, and soul. My focus is on deepening insight into thoughts, feelings, emotions, and the body's story to experience more understanding and compassion for oneself. I believe we are good enough just as we are, and I also understand that there may be patterns, behaviors and symptoms that we may want to shift to help us live fuller, more expansive, peaceful lives. My hope is to cultivate healing, through the safety and support of our therapeutic relationship, and for my clients to rediscover their own inner healer.
(971) 251-4135 View (971) 251-4135
Photo of Marilyn Manzi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Marilyn Manzi
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
Are you a woman that lacks confidence in how decisions are made and often outsource for validation? As a woman, are you abandoning your self in relationships that have potential for true intimacy because you fear rejection? Are you a woman that has overcome much in previous psychotherapy and interested in exploring your inner world for a creative project? As a woman, are you seeking a safe space to explore nightmares or inner thoughts that you’ve kept inside because you’re frozen with uncertainty? Start individual sessions with me to empower yourself and gain your confidence back in your relationships.
Are you a woman that lacks confidence in how decisions are made and often outsource for validation? As a woman, are you abandoning your self in relationships that have potential for true intimacy because you fear rejection? Are you a woman that has overcome much in previous psychotherapy and interested in exploring your inner world for a creative project? As a woman, are you seeking a safe space to explore nightmares or inner thoughts that you’ve kept inside because you’re frozen with uncertainty? Start individual sessions with me to empower yourself and gain your confidence back in your relationships.
(341) 444-3329 View (341) 444-3329
Photo of Christine Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Christine Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
You have found your way to my profile because you are seeking relief— from body dissatisfaction and chronic dieting, anxiety, or from feeling exhausted of chasing perfectionism and always playing by the "rules" of life. On the outside your life may appear totally put together, but deep down you are yearning to feel more deeply connected to yourself and others. I commonly work with young and mid-life adults who are navigating life transitions and challenges with relationships, parenthood, and career. I am glad you have made your way to my profile, because I wholeheartedly believe you can feel more grounded, connected, and whole.
You have found your way to my profile because you are seeking relief— from body dissatisfaction and chronic dieting, anxiety, or from feeling exhausted of chasing perfectionism and always playing by the "rules" of life. On the outside your life may appear totally put together, but deep down you are yearning to feel more deeply connected to yourself and others. I commonly work with young and mid-life adults who are navigating life transitions and challenges with relationships, parenthood, and career. I am glad you have made your way to my profile, because I wholeheartedly believe you can feel more grounded, connected, and whole.
(503) 905-9660 View (503) 905-9660
Photo of Quinne Salameh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Quinne Salameh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Quinne. I have been in the Social Work field since 2006, and have focused most of my career in behavioral health and public health. I often spend a lot of time working with folx around healthy relationships, attachment, trauma healing, the complexities of identity, and I work from an anti-oppressive practice lens. I often bring considerations of intersectionality and privilege into the room. I identify as Queer and Biracial myself, and often support folx in these realms. I like to have a consultation with folx to see if we are a good fit, and think it's important for folx to find the therapist that is right for them.
Hello, I'm Quinne. I have been in the Social Work field since 2006, and have focused most of my career in behavioral health and public health. I often spend a lot of time working with folx around healthy relationships, attachment, trauma healing, the complexities of identity, and I work from an anti-oppressive practice lens. I often bring considerations of intersectionality and privilege into the room. I identify as Queer and Biracial myself, and often support folx in these realms. I like to have a consultation with folx to see if we are a good fit, and think it's important for folx to find the therapist that is right for them.
(971) 318-2816 View (971) 318-2816
Photo of Karen M Corona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Karen M Corona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Feeling trapped in an inner prison of emotional pain and a hostage to your past? Stuck in self-sabotaging patterns? Burdened by negative beliefs about yourself? Heal trauma and restore emotional well-being. The legacy of trauma is often difficult symptoms showing up as anxiety or depression and experiences of being ‘triggered’ in reaction to interpersonal situations. There is hope and a pathway that leads to healing. Through trauma resolution therapy with me you may restore emotional-well-being, develop an inner freedom, and awaken to a newfound wholeness you never thought possible.
Feeling trapped in an inner prison of emotional pain and a hostage to your past? Stuck in self-sabotaging patterns? Burdened by negative beliefs about yourself? Heal trauma and restore emotional well-being. The legacy of trauma is often difficult symptoms showing up as anxiety or depression and experiences of being ‘triggered’ in reaction to interpersonal situations. There is hope and a pathway that leads to healing. Through trauma resolution therapy with me you may restore emotional-well-being, develop an inner freedom, and awaken to a newfound wholeness you never thought possible.
(503) 461-7860 View (503) 461-7860
Photo of Jill Bergman, PsyD, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Jill Bergman, PsyD
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In my therapy practice, I have worked with all kinds of people from all walks of life. I initially helped those suffering from eating disorders—which led to underlying issues like depression; anxiety; other addictions; and all types of abuse (sexual, physical, mental and emotional) and, especially, PTSD. So I am experienced and knowledgeable in treating all those issues.
In my therapy practice, I have worked with all kinds of people from all walks of life. I initially helped those suffering from eating disorders—which led to underlying issues like depression; anxiety; other addictions; and all types of abuse (sexual, physical, mental and emotional) and, especially, PTSD. So I am experienced and knowledgeable in treating all those issues.
(503) 783-8540 View (503) 783-8540
Photo of Allison Higgins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Allison Higgins, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
It takes strength and courage to reach out for help. It is a privilege, as a licensed professional counselor, to provide a supportive, safe, and mutually respectful environment for you to explore problems that may arise during times of increased stress and life transitions. Whether you are struggling with feelings such as sadness, guilt, anger, disappointment, or inner-conflict, as your therapist, I will collaborate with you using an authentic, kind, and skilled approach. The therapeutic relationship can provide a safe space to increase self-awareness and recognize behaviors and relationship patterns that can make you feel stuck.
It takes strength and courage to reach out for help. It is a privilege, as a licensed professional counselor, to provide a supportive, safe, and mutually respectful environment for you to explore problems that may arise during times of increased stress and life transitions. Whether you are struggling with feelings such as sadness, guilt, anger, disappointment, or inner-conflict, as your therapist, I will collaborate with you using an authentic, kind, and skilled approach. The therapeutic relationship can provide a safe space to increase self-awareness and recognize behaviors and relationship patterns that can make you feel stuck.
(503) 966-4172 View (503) 966-4172
Photo of Brad Creel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Brad Creel
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is currently full, please reach out you would like to be added to the waiting list (est. 1-2 months). I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment where my clients can feel welcome and safe. As a psychodynamic therapist, I believe that healing can happen through accessing the realm of the unconscious. This process of exploring thoughts and images can be daunting, but also immensely satisfying and life changing.
My practice is currently full, please reach out you would like to be added to the waiting list (est. 1-2 months). I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment where my clients can feel welcome and safe. As a psychodynamic therapist, I believe that healing can happen through accessing the realm of the unconscious. This process of exploring thoughts and images can be daunting, but also immensely satisfying and life changing.
(503) 303-0794 View (503) 303-0794
Photo of Stephani Grace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Stephani Grace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Are you living the life you want to be living? Or are your struggles with anxiety, depression, addiction, weight loss etc. determining your current life experience? Let me help you transform your suffering into living a more vital, wholehearted life. Through this process you will discover, cultivate, and learn to utilize self compassion and how to steer clear of avoidance traps such as procrastination, self-medication with drugs or alcohol, and comfort eating.
Are you living the life you want to be living? Or are your struggles with anxiety, depression, addiction, weight loss etc. determining your current life experience? Let me help you transform your suffering into living a more vital, wholehearted life. Through this process you will discover, cultivate, and learn to utilize self compassion and how to steer clear of avoidance traps such as procrastination, self-medication with drugs or alcohol, and comfort eating.
(971) 264-2077 View (971) 264-2077
Photo of Madison Weiss, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Madison Weiss
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, R8411
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You may be someone who seeks the equilibrium, safety, inner strength and peace of mind which can emerge from living more authentically. You may even know the road to get there, but have experienced times of difficulty, moving you away from where you want to be internally or relationally. You may be ready to engage in delving more deeply into yourself. Therapy can help you reach your goals. It can help you refine fine your communication skills, and teach you new ones. Face your feelings, and learn to move through them in a safe space that is completely yours. Get a better sense of who you are and who you want to be in the world.
You may be someone who seeks the equilibrium, safety, inner strength and peace of mind which can emerge from living more authentically. You may even know the road to get there, but have experienced times of difficulty, moving you away from where you want to be internally or relationally. You may be ready to engage in delving more deeply into yourself. Therapy can help you reach your goals. It can help you refine fine your communication skills, and teach you new ones. Face your feelings, and learn to move through them in a safe space that is completely yours. Get a better sense of who you are and who you want to be in the world.
(503) 852-9338 View (503) 852-9338
Photo of Jessica L Besner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jessica L Besner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
My work is centered around empowering womxn and gender diverse folx, especially those who have experienced interpersonal or cultural trauma. I have special interest and training in working with the adolescent/young adult population, those who have experienced religious trauma, survivors of narcissistic abuse, and those interested in psychedelic integration work. I help others develop more secure relationships with themselves and those around them, and work with your inner critic to unburden the parts of self that have developed as a response to trauma. I also offer ADHD evaluations in a limited capacity.
My work is centered around empowering womxn and gender diverse folx, especially those who have experienced interpersonal or cultural trauma. I have special interest and training in working with the adolescent/young adult population, those who have experienced religious trauma, survivors of narcissistic abuse, and those interested in psychedelic integration work. I help others develop more secure relationships with themselves and those around them, and work with your inner critic to unburden the parts of self that have developed as a response to trauma. I also offer ADHD evaluations in a limited capacity.
(503) 755-8240 View (503) 755-8240

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.