Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

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Photo of Elijah Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Elijah Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Elijah Garcia is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 9 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate and dedicated to working with adolescents, young teenagers and adults to address their unique daily challenges. Elijah understands the demand for advocacy, support and skill building through the specialization in anxiety, depression, family conflicts, history of trauma, abuse, grief, relationships, self-esteem, and everyday distress.
Elijah Garcia is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 9 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate and dedicated to working with adolescents, young teenagers and adults to address their unique daily challenges. Elijah understands the demand for advocacy, support and skill building through the specialization in anxiety, depression, family conflicts, history of trauma, abuse, grief, relationships, self-esteem, and everyday distress.
(602) 833-7889 View (602) 833-7889
Photo of Beth Onufrak, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Beth Onufrak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do your young child's challenges seem beyond typical? Do emotional & behavioral problems dominate the day? Has time-out frayed your family? If you need tools for yourself and coping skills for your child, you'll find this blend in my care. My ChildSightTools® model reduces behavior problems, grows child coping skills, repairs family bonds and restores parenting joy. I delight in finding developmentally-friendly ways to help young children (ages 3-7) have "better days" at home, school or daycare. To solve the unique puzzle of each child, parents & I collaborate to uncover the child beneath the behavior problems.
Do your young child's challenges seem beyond typical? Do emotional & behavioral problems dominate the day? Has time-out frayed your family? If you need tools for yourself and coping skills for your child, you'll find this blend in my care. My ChildSightTools® model reduces behavior problems, grows child coping skills, repairs family bonds and restores parenting joy. I delight in finding developmentally-friendly ways to help young children (ages 3-7) have "better days" at home, school or daycare. To solve the unique puzzle of each child, parents & I collaborate to uncover the child beneath the behavior problems.
(602) 910-2307 View (602) 910-2307
Photo of Julie Espinoza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Julie Espinoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am sorry for the pain or challenge that has brought you to seek therapy. I care deeply about helping people fully inhabit their pain, learn how to explore/ "be" with it, and use it to live fuller, bigger lives. I provide my clients a supportive, nonjudgmental environment to uncover the truth about their current experience, identify their wants/needs, and ultimately live with committed action in the service of their values. Having 20+ years of experience with specialized therapies of DBT, EMDR, and ACT, I can provide you with a multitude of interventions/techniques that support either greater acceptance or change in your life.
I am sorry for the pain or challenge that has brought you to seek therapy. I care deeply about helping people fully inhabit their pain, learn how to explore/ "be" with it, and use it to live fuller, bigger lives. I provide my clients a supportive, nonjudgmental environment to uncover the truth about their current experience, identify their wants/needs, and ultimately live with committed action in the service of their values. Having 20+ years of experience with specialized therapies of DBT, EMDR, and ACT, I can provide you with a multitude of interventions/techniques that support either greater acceptance or change in your life.
(480) 409-2299 View (480) 409-2299
DELANA Kim Gardner
DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85042
I'm here to provide you with personalized support and guidance in managing your care with warmth and compassion. With a focus on your individual needs, I'm dedicated to ensuring that your treatment plan is optimized for your well-being. Together, we'll work closely to navigate any challenges and achieve the best possible outcomes.
I'm here to provide you with personalized support and guidance in managing your care with warmth and compassion. With a focus on your individual needs, I'm dedicated to ensuring that your treatment plan is optimized for your well-being. Together, we'll work closely to navigate any challenges and achieve the best possible outcomes.
(602) 610-0623 View (602) 610-0623
Photo of Erika L Thrower, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Erika L Thrower
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and began to self destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. My goal is to best assist and support people in living authentic, balanced lives; navigating increased self-awareness in social systems, past experiences, core beliefs and thoughts and their influence on our daily emotional states, behaviors and actions.
Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and began to self destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. My goal is to best assist and support people in living authentic, balanced lives; navigating increased self-awareness in social systems, past experiences, core beliefs and thoughts and their influence on our daily emotional states, behaviors and actions.
(480) 566-9225 View (480) 566-9225
Photo of John Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
John Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, SATP, CSAT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
If you are haunted by past trauma that doesn’t seem to get better with time, I am able to help you find relief. If your relationship has hit an all-time low, and you don't know if you can take it much longer, I can give you the tools to work through conflict and reclaim the love you have for one another. If having affairs or watching porn has gotten out of control for you or someone you love, together we can move toward healing for both you and your partner. If you’ve been disillusioned by religion and need to find a safe place to heal from spiritual abuse, I can walk with you as you find the kind of spirituality that works for you.
If you are haunted by past trauma that doesn’t seem to get better with time, I am able to help you find relief. If your relationship has hit an all-time low, and you don't know if you can take it much longer, I can give you the tools to work through conflict and reclaim the love you have for one another. If having affairs or watching porn has gotten out of control for you or someone you love, together we can move toward healing for both you and your partner. If you’ve been disillusioned by religion and need to find a safe place to heal from spiritual abuse, I can walk with you as you find the kind of spirituality that works for you.
(623) 244-7349 View (623) 244-7349
Photo of Art Of Life - Creative Life Coaching in Phoenix, AZ
Art Of Life - Creative Life Coaching
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
As an Artist and Meditation Teacher with over 30 years experience in Human Services, I am excited to offer a creative spin on bringing your dreams to fruition. My passion lies with being a catalyst for growth. I am happy to announce that I am now offering a way to gain a deeper connection of spirit, mind and body through a guided meditation workshop. The meditation and workshops are offered in a group setting and or through 1:1 sessions.
As an Artist and Meditation Teacher with over 30 years experience in Human Services, I am excited to offer a creative spin on bringing your dreams to fruition. My passion lies with being a catalyst for growth. I am happy to announce that I am now offering a way to gain a deeper connection of spirit, mind and body through a guided meditation workshop. The meditation and workshops are offered in a group setting and or through 1:1 sessions.
(602) 388-1953 View (602) 388-1953
Photo of Lorain Moorehead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Lorain Moorehead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Do you feel like you’ve made it to a place professionally or personally where you expected to be happy but instead you are lashing out or suffering from anxiety or panic? Maybe you're noticing more frustration with people or certain thoughts holding you back. It’s possible this is coming from earlier experiences that you thought you’d moved on from. Otherwise, maybe you had expectations for pregnancy or child birth that were not met or were even traumatic, and you want to process this experience in order to move into the next stage of life.
Do you feel like you’ve made it to a place professionally or personally where you expected to be happy but instead you are lashing out or suffering from anxiety or panic? Maybe you're noticing more frustration with people or certain thoughts holding you back. It’s possible this is coming from earlier experiences that you thought you’d moved on from. Otherwise, maybe you had expectations for pregnancy or child birth that were not met or were even traumatic, and you want to process this experience in order to move into the next stage of life.
(602) 932-0879 View (602) 932-0879
Photo of Empower Mental Health, PLLC, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Empower Mental Health, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Welcome to Empower Mental Health. Our guiding principal is to empower our clients to thrive well past the time when counseling is concluded. From the first session we focus on working ourselves out of a job. A focus we take pride in is working with veterans and their families. We accept insurances to include Optum/United, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Medicare and Triwest. We are available for both in-person and telehealth sessions. Services can be scheduled outside of business hours including mornings, nights, and weekends. Please take a look at our website: https://empowermh.co
Welcome to Empower Mental Health. Our guiding principal is to empower our clients to thrive well past the time when counseling is concluded. From the first session we focus on working ourselves out of a job. A focus we take pride in is working with veterans and their families. We accept insurances to include Optum/United, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Medicare and Triwest. We are available for both in-person and telehealth sessions. Services can be scheduled outside of business hours including mornings, nights, and weekends. Please take a look at our website: https://empowermh.co
(602) 755-3800 View (602) 755-3800
Photo of Jordan R Francis, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Jordan R Francis
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Are your relationships becoming increasingly more challenging to navigate? Sometimes, our emotions get the best of us and we lash out at the people we love or recluse from them. Either way, it feels like a perpetual cycle. This can happen in our parenting, romantic relationships, and our work. Maybe you've talked with some close friends or even read up to try and find a solution, but you haven't found the missing piece to the puzzle.
Are your relationships becoming increasingly more challenging to navigate? Sometimes, our emotions get the best of us and we lash out at the people we love or recluse from them. Either way, it feels like a perpetual cycle. This can happen in our parenting, romantic relationships, and our work. Maybe you've talked with some close friends or even read up to try and find a solution, but you haven't found the missing piece to the puzzle.
(602) 691-6393 View (602) 691-6393
Photo of David Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
David Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, licensed professional counselor with 14+ years working with individuals struggling with gambling, gaming, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, anger management, and more. I pride myself on an evidence-based approach to ensure each client is fully supported throughout their full course of care. I strongly believe in providing every client with utmost respect and dignity, prioritizing their needs and aspirations through a personalized and compassionate approach.
I am a board-certified, licensed professional counselor with 14+ years working with individuals struggling with gambling, gaming, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, anger management, and more. I pride myself on an evidence-based approach to ensure each client is fully supported throughout their full course of care. I strongly believe in providing every client with utmost respect and dignity, prioritizing their needs and aspirations through a personalized and compassionate approach.
(928) 764-0675 View (928) 764-0675
Photo of Lyndsay Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Lyndsay Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012  (Online Only)
Certain life experiences can lead to negative subconscious programs and core beliefs that cause us to feel fear, anxiety, shame, disempowerment, or to live in some state of dysregulation and disconnection from our true selves. Healing is a holistic process and therapy can play a vital role in that process. I believe having the “right” support and guidance can make all the difference.
Certain life experiences can lead to negative subconscious programs and core beliefs that cause us to feel fear, anxiety, shame, disempowerment, or to live in some state of dysregulation and disconnection from our true selves. Healing is a holistic process and therapy can play a vital role in that process. I believe having the “right” support and guidance can make all the difference.
(623) 283-2146 View (623) 283-2146
Photo of Deana Bledsoe, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Deana Bledsoe
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Have you ever felt like some parts of life are going well while others need more attention? Sometimes, it can be things that have lingered in the back of our mind for a while that unknowingly, are keeping us stuck and unable to grow. Living a full life is less about will power and more about having the skills to know what you need in any given moment. I primarily work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, unresolved trauma, and life transitions. EMDR is a great tool that helps process deeper rooted issues to help find resolve.
Have you ever felt like some parts of life are going well while others need more attention? Sometimes, it can be things that have lingered in the back of our mind for a while that unknowingly, are keeping us stuck and unable to grow. Living a full life is less about will power and more about having the skills to know what you need in any given moment. I primarily work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, unresolved trauma, and life transitions. EMDR is a great tool that helps process deeper rooted issues to help find resolve.
(602) 666-9975 View (602) 666-9975
Photo of Emily Hines, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Emily Hines
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
I truly care about what you are experiencing. Having the right support is the key to being able to overcome areas that are keeping you stuck. You have managed to cope and survive this long, but perhaps it feels like you don't have all of the tools or insights to find true relief from symptoms or difficulties you are experiencing. You are constantly weighed down by anxiety, holding yourself to high standards with little time for restoration, or haunted by the lingering effects of trauma. You are ready for change - perhaps you have tried therapy before and wonder how to really get the most of it.
I truly care about what you are experiencing. Having the right support is the key to being able to overcome areas that are keeping you stuck. You have managed to cope and survive this long, but perhaps it feels like you don't have all of the tools or insights to find true relief from symptoms or difficulties you are experiencing. You are constantly weighed down by anxiety, holding yourself to high standards with little time for restoration, or haunted by the lingering effects of trauma. You are ready for change - perhaps you have tried therapy before and wonder how to really get the most of it.
(623) 304-4015 View (623) 304-4015
Photo of Candy Blomgren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Candy Blomgren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend availability! As we mature and enter new stages of life, unique challenges may arise, and we may need specific, relatable guidance from someone with lived experience. I have a passion for working with adults who may be struggling with various life transitions, shifts in mood, or relationship issues. If you feel that life has become overwhelming, or you’re having difficulty adjusting to life’s many changes, or you’re experiencing depression and anxiety with trying to manage it all, I can help!
Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend availability! As we mature and enter new stages of life, unique challenges may arise, and we may need specific, relatable guidance from someone with lived experience. I have a passion for working with adults who may be struggling with various life transitions, shifts in mood, or relationship issues. If you feel that life has become overwhelming, or you’re having difficulty adjusting to life’s many changes, or you’re experiencing depression and anxiety with trying to manage it all, I can help!
(602) 878-4597 View (602) 878-4597
Photo of Joel W Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Joel W Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
You may not see it or believe it yet, but you have what it takes to transform your challenges into strength and resilience. Whether you are navigating trauma, grief, complex family dynamics, anxiety, depression or simply looking to get unstuck from a negative cycle, I take a strength-based and collaborative approach to create a tailored plan of healing and transformation. Our work together may include exploring and untangling past experiences, integrating mindfulness, developing healthy coping skills and setting new habits for self-care. My goal is to empower you with insights and skills to thrive.
You may not see it or believe it yet, but you have what it takes to transform your challenges into strength and resilience. Whether you are navigating trauma, grief, complex family dynamics, anxiety, depression or simply looking to get unstuck from a negative cycle, I take a strength-based and collaborative approach to create a tailored plan of healing and transformation. Our work together may include exploring and untangling past experiences, integrating mindfulness, developing healthy coping skills and setting new habits for self-care. My goal is to empower you with insights and skills to thrive.
(602) 755-9026 View (602) 755-9026
Photo of Michael 'big Dog' Abell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Michael 'big Dog' Abell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85034
As you search for a solution to the problem you are facing, you may feel that you are in the dark. My goal as a therapist is to help you find your eyes in the dark. Together we will seek to identify the problem and help you to stand against it. We will evaluate your unique story and work to rewrite it towards the preferred outcome that you will define. My unique perspective as a counselor with a visual impairment qualifies me to provide a view of the problem that is different than most counselors.
As you search for a solution to the problem you are facing, you may feel that you are in the dark. My goal as a therapist is to help you find your eyes in the dark. Together we will seek to identify the problem and help you to stand against it. We will evaluate your unique story and work to rewrite it towards the preferred outcome that you will define. My unique perspective as a counselor with a visual impairment qualifies me to provide a view of the problem that is different than most counselors.
(602) 313-1807 View (602) 313-1807
Photo of Callie Miller - Gender Identity Center, Licensed Master Social Worker in Phoenix, AZ
Callie Miller - Gender Identity Center
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My approach is deeply person-centered, focusing on building resilience and empowering individuals on their ever evolving journey of self discovery to navigate life’s challenges. My background is rooted in community based services, and for the last four years I have worked with survivors of domestic abuse, individuals in crisis and children ages 3+ in various settings. I am a proud feminist and my work is centered around the recognition and subsequent destructing of the harsh systemic realities we find ourselves in. I am here to be your staunch advocate, encourager, and counsel. Together we will learn, unlearn, and grow as necessary.
My approach is deeply person-centered, focusing on building resilience and empowering individuals on their ever evolving journey of self discovery to navigate life’s challenges. My background is rooted in community based services, and for the last four years I have worked with survivors of domestic abuse, individuals in crisis and children ages 3+ in various settings. I am a proud feminist and my work is centered around the recognition and subsequent destructing of the harsh systemic realities we find ourselves in. I am here to be your staunch advocate, encourager, and counsel. Together we will learn, unlearn, and grow as necessary.
(623) 343-1040 View (623) 343-1040
Photo of John Lynch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
John Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I'm a licensed therapist (Arizona & Oregon) with master's degrees in Clinical Social Work (MSW) & Divinity (MDiv) & 15 years providing counseling services in Arizona. Prior to that, I spent a decade in other forms of social service & pastoral care. I've been privileged to help clients from diverse backgrounds overcome a wide variety of challenges, including complex & acute trauma, abuse & neglect, anxiety & anger, marital & intimate partner problems, grief & loss, substance & behavioral addiction, vocational struggles, spirituality challenges, & more.
I'm a licensed therapist (Arizona & Oregon) with master's degrees in Clinical Social Work (MSW) & Divinity (MDiv) & 15 years providing counseling services in Arizona. Prior to that, I spent a decade in other forms of social service & pastoral care. I've been privileged to help clients from diverse backgrounds overcome a wide variety of challenges, including complex & acute trauma, abuse & neglect, anxiety & anger, marital & intimate partner problems, grief & loss, substance & behavioral addiction, vocational struggles, spirituality challenges, & more.
(602) 902-1020 View (602) 902-1020
Photo of Anna Valenti-Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Anna Valenti-Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISAC, CSAT-S, CMAT-S
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
Change is hard. I respect your right to CHOOSE support. I believe you want to improve your life. I provide you with tangible methods to help you achieve realistic goals. I support you with positive encouragement instead of guilt or shame. I am here to help you help yourself.
Change is hard. I respect your right to CHOOSE support. I believe you want to improve your life. I provide you with tangible methods to help you achieve realistic goals. I support you with positive encouragement instead of guilt or shame. I am here to help you help yourself.
(623) 695-0064 View (623) 695-0064

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Phoenix?

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.