Therapists in Lockport, IL

Photo of Loretta Colhardt, Licensed Social Worker in Lockport, IL
Loretta Colhardt
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
As a Licensed Social Worker, the focus of my practice has been assisting client's in finding their true potential by overcoming life's obstacles and encouraging empowerment. I provide a safe, client centered approach to explore and navigate solutions. Throughout my career I have worked with all ages in community mental health and inpatient settings. I incorporate various types of treatment including CBT and DBT to achieve optimal health and wellness. My specialties including Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. I treat adults age 18-65+.
As a Licensed Social Worker, the focus of my practice has been assisting client's in finding their true potential by overcoming life's obstacles and encouraging empowerment. I provide a safe, client centered approach to explore and navigate solutions. Throughout my career I have worked with all ages in community mental health and inpatient settings. I incorporate various types of treatment including CBT and DBT to achieve optimal health and wellness. My specialties including Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. I treat adults age 18-65+.
(630) 332-8212 View (630) 332-8212
Photo of Erica Shick, Counselor in Lockport, IL
Erica Shick
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lockport, IL 60441
Growing up without the right emotional support or with abuse can leave adults feeling a lack of sense of self..."Who am I? Am I allowed to feel this way?" This creates difficulties with decision-making and relationships, and the overall quality of life is unsatisfying. You may look “well put together” but inside you feel an empty numbness. The impact from yesterday can cause today to feel like a burden and decreases one's ability to thrive. Most times only symptoms of depression and anxiety are treated which only further avoids the core issue. We can safely address the core issues in therapy helping you gain BETTER WELLNESS.
Growing up without the right emotional support or with abuse can leave adults feeling a lack of sense of self..."Who am I? Am I allowed to feel this way?" This creates difficulties with decision-making and relationships, and the overall quality of life is unsatisfying. You may look “well put together” but inside you feel an empty numbness. The impact from yesterday can cause today to feel like a burden and decreases one's ability to thrive. Most times only symptoms of depression and anxiety are treated which only further avoids the core issue. We can safely address the core issues in therapy helping you gain BETTER WELLNESS.
(331) 702-9079 View (331) 702-9079
Photo of Kathryn B Lipkin, Counselor in Lockport, IL
Kathryn B Lipkin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
Life can be rough sometimes. There are many stressors out there. You deserve to carve out time for yourself, to focus on you. It is very important that we not lose sight of ourselves, and our needs. Taking time for ourselves, to express our feelings, thoughts, and struggles, can help us cope, and make more sense of ourselves, in our families and in our world.
Life can be rough sometimes. There are many stressors out there. You deserve to carve out time for yourself, to focus on you. It is very important that we not lose sight of ourselves, and our needs. Taking time for ourselves, to express our feelings, thoughts, and struggles, can help us cope, and make more sense of ourselves, in our families and in our world.
(312) 259-9202 View (312) 259-9202
Photo of Emily Flores, Counselor in Lockport, IL
Emily Flores
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lockport, IL 60441
Many of us experience a disconnection from our self-consciousness due earlier traumas during that period. Some of those experiences include: stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood wounds, neglect, abuse, and other of life's challenges. What if I told you could work through that pain and connect to your highest self. A more meaningful and positive self-image. The highest self is connected to intuition, truth, calmness, wisdom, and compassionate. Finding our highest self can be challenging however achievable. My treatment of modalities are embedded in traditional psychology training and interconnected with holistic healing.
Many of us experience a disconnection from our self-consciousness due earlier traumas during that period. Some of those experiences include: stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood wounds, neglect, abuse, and other of life's challenges. What if I told you could work through that pain and connect to your highest self. A more meaningful and positive self-image. The highest self is connected to intuition, truth, calmness, wisdom, and compassionate. Finding our highest self can be challenging however achievable. My treatment of modalities are embedded in traditional psychology training and interconnected with holistic healing.
(708) 564-3596 View (708) 564-3596
Photo of Megan Hagemaster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lockport, IL
Megan Hagemaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
Do you feel lost in a sea of emotion, overwhelmed by simple daily tasks? Are you constantly filled with worry or dread and have difficulty making decisions? You are not alone. We live in a world where information is changing at a faster pace than our brains and bodies can keep up with. We are faced with new challenges our past coping strategies are not prepared to help us with. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I can help manage the demands of our overwhelming, challenging world. Whether you are looking for new coping strategies, validation, an ally, or change, I can help.
Do you feel lost in a sea of emotion, overwhelmed by simple daily tasks? Are you constantly filled with worry or dread and have difficulty making decisions? You are not alone. We live in a world where information is changing at a faster pace than our brains and bodies can keep up with. We are faced with new challenges our past coping strategies are not prepared to help us with. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I can help manage the demands of our overwhelming, challenging world. Whether you are looking for new coping strategies, validation, an ally, or change, I can help.
(877) 816-2854 View (877) 816-2854
Photo of Alexia Gamez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lockport, IL
Alexia Gamez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lockport, IL 60441
Not accepting new clients
Let’s face it, sometimes, existing can be exhausting & I recognize that asking for help can feel scary or overwhelming. I strive to make starting therapy, & the therapeutic process, as comfortable & stress free as possible. I believe that no one knows you better than you know yourself & that we often harbor the solutions to many of our own questions. Sometimes it just takes another pair of eyes to help you see it through. I like to use a collaborative approach, which puts my clients in the driver’s seat. This gives clients the power to establish clear goals, set the pace, & explore issues on their terms while I help navigate.
Let’s face it, sometimes, existing can be exhausting & I recognize that asking for help can feel scary or overwhelming. I strive to make starting therapy, & the therapeutic process, as comfortable & stress free as possible. I believe that no one knows you better than you know yourself & that we often harbor the solutions to many of our own questions. Sometimes it just takes another pair of eyes to help you see it through. I like to use a collaborative approach, which puts my clients in the driver’s seat. This gives clients the power to establish clear goals, set the pace, & explore issues on their terms while I help navigate.
(815) 688-6996 View (815) 688-6996
Photo of Julia Dombrow, Counselor in Lockport, IL
Julia Dombrow
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lockport, IL 60441
Waitlist for new clients
Dealing with obstacles can sometimes make it hard to reach out for support, but asking for help shows strength. I have experience working with people of all ages, with a focus on teenagers to adults and families. If you've been recently diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, struggle with setting boundaries or expressing your needs as a highly sensitive or empathetic individual, are dealing with physical or psychological symptoms from trauma, grief, or abuse, or are facing challenges like depression, anxiety, panic attacks, burnout, or self-harm, we could be a great team to work together.
Dealing with obstacles can sometimes make it hard to reach out for support, but asking for help shows strength. I have experience working with people of all ages, with a focus on teenagers to adults and families. If you've been recently diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, struggle with setting boundaries or expressing your needs as a highly sensitive or empathetic individual, are dealing with physical or psychological symptoms from trauma, grief, or abuse, or are facing challenges like depression, anxiety, panic attacks, burnout, or self-harm, we could be a great team to work together.
(630) 496-5341 View (630) 496-5341
Photo of Jennifer L. Patterson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lockport, IL
Jennifer L. Patterson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
Life presents challenges for all of us but it is how we choose to overcome our challenges that dictate whether we are living a life that is full of meaning and vitality. As a mental health provider it is my mission to offer evidenced-based psychotherapy to help others live full and abundant lives. Perhaps you are suffering and would like to learn to overcome your obstacles? I can help you move ahead toward living a life you want to live.
Life presents challenges for all of us but it is how we choose to overcome our challenges that dictate whether we are living a life that is full of meaning and vitality. As a mental health provider it is my mission to offer evidenced-based psychotherapy to help others live full and abundant lives. Perhaps you are suffering and would like to learn to overcome your obstacles? I can help you move ahead toward living a life you want to live.
(708) 274-7839 View (708) 274-7839
Photo of Samantha Gehrig, Counselor in Lockport, IL
Samantha Gehrig
Counselor, MA, LCPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441  (Online Only)
I believe that authenticity is an essential tool in the therapeutic process. I use an integrative approach with a focus on Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I work with my clients to identify what their meaningful life looks like and to set goals that will move them towards that meaningful life. I believe in empowering my clients to advocate for themselves both within the therapeutic relationship and in their everyday lives. I see my clients through a strengths-based lens and encourage them to explore and connect to their strengths as a resource for healing.
I believe that authenticity is an essential tool in the therapeutic process. I use an integrative approach with a focus on Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I work with my clients to identify what their meaningful life looks like and to set goals that will move them towards that meaningful life. I believe in empowering my clients to advocate for themselves both within the therapeutic relationship and in their everyday lives. I see my clients through a strengths-based lens and encourage them to explore and connect to their strengths as a resource for healing.
(815) 859-9743 View (815) 859-9743
Photo of Jophia George, Licensed Social Worker in Lockport, IL
Jophia George
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW, CWAS, BPharm
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
“You matter, and I’m here for you.” As a Licensed Social Worker I'm here to provide you with dedicated support on your journey towards personal growth and well-being. As an experienced therapist, I'm committed to creating a safe and nurturing sanctuary where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals. It's essential to me that I respect your boundaries and maintain your privacy with the utmost confidentiality. Your presence matters greatly, and I'm here to guide you through challenges, drawing inspiration from James 1:2-4, your well-being is my priority, and I'm dedicated to making a positive impact on your journey.
“You matter, and I’m here for you.” As a Licensed Social Worker I'm here to provide you with dedicated support on your journey towards personal growth and well-being. As an experienced therapist, I'm committed to creating a safe and nurturing sanctuary where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals. It's essential to me that I respect your boundaries and maintain your privacy with the utmost confidentiality. Your presence matters greatly, and I'm here to guide you through challenges, drawing inspiration from James 1:2-4, your well-being is my priority, and I'm dedicated to making a positive impact on your journey.
(630) 866-8109 View (630) 866-8109
Photo of The Practice Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, Counselor in Lockport, IL
The Practice Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lockport, IL 60441
Our promise is to help clients that come to us integrate trauma, resolve depression and anxiety and offer a safe space to process grief.
Our promise is to help clients that come to us integrate trauma, resolve depression and anxiety and offer a safe space to process grief.
(708) 390-6198 View (708) 390-6198
Photo of Kim Kriks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lockport, IL
Kim Kriks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
As a child and teen mental health therapist, I am passionate about providing effective and compassionate support to young individuals and their families who are facing emotional and psychological challenges. I firmly believe that every child and adolescent deserve the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe environment. You know yourself and your family best, and I am here to help guide and offer strategies during tough times. In addition to working with children and teens, I also love empowering and helping women and young adults.
As a child and teen mental health therapist, I am passionate about providing effective and compassionate support to young individuals and their families who are facing emotional and psychological challenges. I firmly believe that every child and adolescent deserve the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe environment. You know yourself and your family best, and I am here to help guide and offer strategies during tough times. In addition to working with children and teens, I also love empowering and helping women and young adults.
(708) 320-8039 View (708) 320-8039
Photo of Stephanie Grein, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lockport, IL
Stephanie Grein
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
My counseling approach reflects academic training, personal experience as an active duty military spouse and mother "“ all of these experiences shaped my outlook and foundational beliefs. I believe we are unique and complex with a variety of needs, but the baseline is rooted in human interaction comprised of caring, respect, acceptance, support, and understanding. We all possess the capacity for change from within. However, we sometimes need an external catalyst that a counselor may provide utilizing a safe and therapeutic environment comprised of genuineness and empathy.
My counseling approach reflects academic training, personal experience as an active duty military spouse and mother "“ all of these experiences shaped my outlook and foundational beliefs. I believe we are unique and complex with a variety of needs, but the baseline is rooted in human interaction comprised of caring, respect, acceptance, support, and understanding. We all possess the capacity for change from within. However, we sometimes need an external catalyst that a counselor may provide utilizing a safe and therapeutic environment comprised of genuineness and empathy.
(630) 556-8867 View (630) 556-8867
Photo of Michelle Rusch, Counselor in Lockport, IL
Michelle Rusch
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
Michelle received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health from Lewis University. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor skilled to work with people ages 14 and older. She understands that it takes a lot of courage for someone to not only ask for help, but follow through with the treatment recommended. She takes her time getting to know each client and their symptoms in order to provide the best care for each individual. Michelle is skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy.
Michelle received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health from Lewis University. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor skilled to work with people ages 14 and older. She understands that it takes a lot of courage for someone to not only ask for help, but follow through with the treatment recommended. She takes her time getting to know each client and their symptoms in order to provide the best care for each individual. Michelle is skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy.
(630) 912-0481 View (630) 912-0481
Photo of Lisa Panozzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lockport, IL
Lisa Panozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults/couples and seniors who come in with a variety of concerns such as: cancer diagnosis, social isolation, depression, anxiety, grief, anger, infidelity, cutting, suicidal ideations, and feelings of being overwhelmed. I am extremely knowledgeable in adolescent development. I believe in establishing a strong connection with my clients in order to be successful. I use a very personable and direct communication style that allows my clients to gain self-awareness, confront denial, improve irrational thinking, and establish coping skills to encourage healthy change.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults/couples and seniors who come in with a variety of concerns such as: cancer diagnosis, social isolation, depression, anxiety, grief, anger, infidelity, cutting, suicidal ideations, and feelings of being overwhelmed. I am extremely knowledgeable in adolescent development. I believe in establishing a strong connection with my clients in order to be successful. I use a very personable and direct communication style that allows my clients to gain self-awareness, confront denial, improve irrational thinking, and establish coping skills to encourage healthy change.
(708) 377-5385 View (708) 377-5385
Photo of Camelle Burlock, Counselor in Lockport, IL
Camelle Burlock
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
My initial focus is to build rapport with each client. As a therapist, I foster a growth-promoting climate for clients to feel comfortable and secure to engage and resolve their issues. I believe we have the capacity to change our lives for the better through self-awareness. Once we become more aware and accepting of ourselves; we uncover our latent abilities and begin to empower ourselves to make the changes in our lives that we want to see.
My initial focus is to build rapport with each client. As a therapist, I foster a growth-promoting climate for clients to feel comfortable and secure to engage and resolve their issues. I believe we have the capacity to change our lives for the better through self-awareness. Once we become more aware and accepting of ourselves; we uncover our latent abilities and begin to empower ourselves to make the changes in our lives that we want to see.
(630) 509-7811 View (630) 509-7811
Photo of Pamela Zika, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lockport, IL
Pamela Zika
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
Pamela Zika is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Governors State University. She received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology from Illinois State University. Pamela believes that a good therapeutic relationship is paramount in making positive life changes. Her empathetic, non-judgmental, and welcoming personality creates a safe and comfortable environment for all clients during counseling sessions. Pamela helps people clarify, envision, and obtain their life aspirations and goals.
Pamela Zika is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Governors State University. She received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology from Illinois State University. Pamela believes that a good therapeutic relationship is paramount in making positive life changes. Her empathetic, non-judgmental, and welcoming personality creates a safe and comfortable environment for all clients during counseling sessions. Pamela helps people clarify, envision, and obtain their life aspirations and goals.
(630) 642-6680 View (630) 642-6680
Photo of Sarah Czopek, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lockport, IL
Sarah Czopek
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CATP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lockport, IL 60441  (Online Only)
Being strong and determined is great - um, except that it often involves falling apart behind closed doors. Not many people know that as awesome as you are, you often feel panicked, overwhelmed, angry, or irritable. You wish you could relax, but it feels like there's just not enough time for yourself. You worry about making the wrong decisions, and what everyone else thinks of you. You don't want to let anyone down, but you're starting to SHUT down. You're not finding answers (isn't there, like, a handbook for this stuff?!) Meanwhile, you just can't seem to turn off that little voice inside that says you have to be perfect.
Being strong and determined is great - um, except that it often involves falling apart behind closed doors. Not many people know that as awesome as you are, you often feel panicked, overwhelmed, angry, or irritable. You wish you could relax, but it feels like there's just not enough time for yourself. You worry about making the wrong decisions, and what everyone else thinks of you. You don't want to let anyone down, but you're starting to SHUT down. You're not finding answers (isn't there, like, a handbook for this stuff?!) Meanwhile, you just can't seem to turn off that little voice inside that says you have to be perfect.
(331) 241-7712 View (331) 241-7712
Photo of Jessica Connors, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lockport, IL
Jessica Connors
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
Following the adoption of her son from the Philippines, Jessica was inspired to continue to serve those who find themselves in vulnerable life situations, particularly children in the adoption and foster communities. With mental health challenges on the rise, she feels called to help those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD and traumatic experiences. Jessica focuses on helping children, adolescents and young adults struggling with family issues as well as young, growing families.
Following the adoption of her son from the Philippines, Jessica was inspired to continue to serve those who find themselves in vulnerable life situations, particularly children in the adoption and foster communities. With mental health challenges on the rise, she feels called to help those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD and traumatic experiences. Jessica focuses on helping children, adolescents and young adults struggling with family issues as well as young, growing families.
(815) 743-3287 View (815) 743-3287
Photo of Susan Pierce, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lockport, IL
Susan Pierce
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Sue Pierce, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I enjoy helping clients find solutions to their problems. I work with all genders specifically in areas of anxiety, substance use, and depression. I am an active listener for those that just need a person to talk to. A little information regarding my education is I have a BS in Psychology, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Graduate Certificate in Addictions. I am certified in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.
Hi, my name is Sue Pierce, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I enjoy helping clients find solutions to their problems. I work with all genders specifically in areas of anxiety, substance use, and depression. I am an active listener for those that just need a person to talk to. A little information regarding my education is I have a BS in Psychology, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Graduate Certificate in Addictions. I am certified in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.
(815) 368-4918 View (815) 368-4918

See more therapy options for Lockport

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lockport, IL

50+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Lockport, IL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
74% Coping Skills
74% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
70% Life Transitions
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Aetna

How Therapists in Lockport, IL see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lockport?

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.