Therapists in Gardner, KS

Photo of Tracy Bennett - Soothing Hearts Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LPC, LCPC
Soothing Hearts Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gardner, KS 66030
I am a seasoned therapist who is empathic and knowledgeable. I am devoted to helping people through difficult times. I help people learn to better manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar and other mental health needs. I assist people working through troubled relationships with family, friends and partners. I support and guide people through the aftermath of abusive relationships. You can be yourself, free of judgements and biases, allowed to share your thoughts unfiltered and without worry of being offensive or ostracized. You can work through your problems and feel a change within yourself, happier and freer.
I am a seasoned therapist who is empathic and knowledgeable. I am devoted to helping people through difficult times. I help people learn to better manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar and other mental health needs. I assist people working through troubled relationships with family, friends and partners. I support and guide people through the aftermath of abusive relationships. You can be yourself, free of judgements and biases, allowed to share your thoughts unfiltered and without worry of being offensive or ostracized. You can work through your problems and feel a change within yourself, happier and freer.
(913) 246-5749 View (913) 246-5749
Photo of J. Craig Waddle, MA, LCPC
J. Craig Waddle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gardner, KS 66030
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
Therapy tends to be a process of change. Therefore, we have to understand how change happens. For me, change only happens as we gain a deeper understanding of what needs to be changed. Therapy then, becomes a process of exploring the events that have shaped us so that we can gain that deeper understanding. Once we have that deeper knowledge of the problem, we are better able to make decisions that will lead to positive change. It is my hope that you find the answers you are looking for and that somehow, I may assist you in the process.
(913) 624-1251 View (913) 624-1251
Photo of Sitka D Stueve, LSCSW, LCSW, CCP, CCTP, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sitka D Stueve
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, CCP, CCTP, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gardner, KS 66030
Are you thriving, or barely surviving? Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or out-of-control? is your relationship in a downward spiral? Is financial distress ruining your life? I know exactly what you're feeling - like the walls are closing in & You Need Help Now! Help is here & hope is on the way! I have advanced clinical training to help you manage your challenges & I look forward to teaching you tools to take your life back. Online or in-person, your choice! Together, we will figure out what's really going on & shed light on your discontent so that you don't have to feel like a failure any more.
Are you thriving, or barely surviving? Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or out-of-control? is your relationship in a downward spiral? Is financial distress ruining your life? I know exactly what you're feeling - like the walls are closing in & You Need Help Now! Help is here & hope is on the way! I have advanced clinical training to help you manage your challenges & I look forward to teaching you tools to take your life back. Online or in-person, your choice! Together, we will figure out what's really going on & shed light on your discontent so that you don't have to feel like a failure any more.
(913) 347-4298 View (913) 347-4298
Photo of Kristin Kay, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Kay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be so hard, especially when we carry traumatic memories, cultural and generational burdens, or chronic stress. I believe, from the depth of my being, that we are all doing our very best with our current resources. I'm here to support your healing and help you reclaim the power over your suffering. My services are entirely through telehealth, and I provide a warm but real environment over my telehealth platform. I provide support to adults of all ages!
Life can be so hard, especially when we carry traumatic memories, cultural and generational burdens, or chronic stress. I believe, from the depth of my being, that we are all doing our very best with our current resources. I'm here to support your healing and help you reclaim the power over your suffering. My services are entirely through telehealth, and I provide a warm but real environment over my telehealth platform. I provide support to adults of all ages!
(417) 383-2307 View (417) 383-2307
Photo of Kate Felt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Felt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals build healthier relationships with themselves and others. I work collaboratively with clients to address barriers like anxiety, depression, and challenging family dynamics. As an EMDR-trained therapist, I help process past trauma to foster healing and growth. I provide compassionate, culturally attuned care, particularly for those connected to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or navigating unique cultural dynamics. Together, we work toward intentional, goal-driven change.
I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals build healthier relationships with themselves and others. I work collaboratively with clients to address barriers like anxiety, depression, and challenging family dynamics. As an EMDR-trained therapist, I help process past trauma to foster healing and growth. I provide compassionate, culturally attuned care, particularly for those connected to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or navigating unique cultural dynamics. Together, we work toward intentional, goal-driven change.
(801) 845-4406 View (801) 845-4406
Photo of Katie Espinosa, BS, MA, LPC-T, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Espinosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA, LPC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about serving families in Kansas City, especially mothers within the BIPOC & Latinx community. Social justice is an important issue in our world, and work needs to be done to continue to build up systemically oppressed individuals who don't yet have the knowledge & resources to advocate for themselves. I believe that every individual is born with the strength & resilience that is required when facing life's challenges & difficulties. As a therapist, it's my job to help clients uncover their strengths, & provide the tools necessary to be an even stronger, more empowered mom. It takes a village to raise a child!
I am passionate about serving families in Kansas City, especially mothers within the BIPOC & Latinx community. Social justice is an important issue in our world, and work needs to be done to continue to build up systemically oppressed individuals who don't yet have the knowledge & resources to advocate for themselves. I believe that every individual is born with the strength & resilience that is required when facing life's challenges & difficulties. As a therapist, it's my job to help clients uncover their strengths, & provide the tools necessary to be an even stronger, more empowered mom. It takes a village to raise a child!
(913) 270-6329 View (913) 270-6329
Photo of Subrena S Hicks, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Subrena S Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Love in Gray Counseling Services is about finding the strength, hope, and love for yourself or loved ones in the midst of a storm. Everyone's situation looks different, and today you are one step closer to discovering positive growth, and well-being. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University. I work with a variety of clients such as individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. My treatment approach to therapy is Experiential, and Attachment based. To learn more about this approach visit my website.
Love in Gray Counseling Services is about finding the strength, hope, and love for yourself or loved ones in the midst of a storm. Everyone's situation looks different, and today you are one step closer to discovering positive growth, and well-being. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University. I work with a variety of clients such as individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. My treatment approach to therapy is Experiential, and Attachment based. To learn more about this approach visit my website.
(913) 305-4420 View (913) 305-4420
Photo of Dorathy Scott, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorathy Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you struggling with relational issues, chronic illness, work/life stress, a mental illness, infertility, divorce, anxiety, depression? Life, always seems to have a lot more in store than we want or feel we can handle at any given time, it seems. Navigating all of the curves some times roadblocks can be overwhelming and you may find that you need help processing and maneuvering what's coming at you. The need for a safe space to be yourself, ugly cry, and be emotionally vulnerable. Everyone and every place is not always equipped to handle what our needs are in those moments, but I hope to provide that space for you.
Are you struggling with relational issues, chronic illness, work/life stress, a mental illness, infertility, divorce, anxiety, depression? Life, always seems to have a lot more in store than we want or feel we can handle at any given time, it seems. Navigating all of the curves some times roadblocks can be overwhelming and you may find that you need help processing and maneuvering what's coming at you. The need for a safe space to be yourself, ugly cry, and be emotionally vulnerable. Everyone and every place is not always equipped to handle what our needs are in those moments, but I hope to provide that space for you.
(913) 392-5647 View (913) 392-5647
Photo of Brianne Phillips, LSCSW, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianne Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We all go through many changes and transitions through life. Some are challenging, others are joyous. My hopes are to show you that counseling is a process of self-exploration and discovery and is helpful for anyone at any stage of their life. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for all of my clients.
We all go through many changes and transitions through life. Some are challenging, others are joyous. My hopes are to show you that counseling is a process of self-exploration and discovery and is helpful for anyone at any stage of their life. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for all of my clients.
(785) 504-1146 View (785) 504-1146
Photo of Jamee Horton, LSCSW, LCAC, KCGC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamee Horton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, KCGC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
As Co-founder & CEO of Integrated Clinical Services, Jamee brings over 7 years of experience to the field of mental health. She is passionate about helping clients transform relationships, overcome grief and trauma, and significantly improve quality of life. She has worked with diverse clients, providing care in settings from inpatient psychiatric hospitals to outpatient substance use programs. Her dedication to clients is matched by her commitment to professional development. In addition to offering psychotherapy, she also provides clinical supervision to colleagues wanting to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
As Co-founder & CEO of Integrated Clinical Services, Jamee brings over 7 years of experience to the field of mental health. She is passionate about helping clients transform relationships, overcome grief and trauma, and significantly improve quality of life. She has worked with diverse clients, providing care in settings from inpatient psychiatric hospitals to outpatient substance use programs. Her dedication to clients is matched by her commitment to professional development. In addition to offering psychotherapy, she also provides clinical supervision to colleagues wanting to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
(913) 347-7051 View (913) 347-7051
Photo of Jeff Tadokoro, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Tadokoro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My goal in counseling is for you to be empowered to make positive changes so that your life can flourish. I work with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Families using brief and long term therapy. I work with a variety of issues including: Depression Stress/Anxiety, Marriage/Family issues, School issues with Children and Adolescents, Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief and Loss, Anger Control. If you have been thinking about making a change, this is an exciting time in your life, take the next step and contact me. I will be here to assist, empower, and advocate for you.
My goal in counseling is for you to be empowered to make positive changes so that your life can flourish. I work with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Families using brief and long term therapy. I work with a variety of issues including: Depression Stress/Anxiety, Marriage/Family issues, School issues with Children and Adolescents, Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief and Loss, Anger Control. If you have been thinking about making a change, this is an exciting time in your life, take the next step and contact me. I will be here to assist, empower, and advocate for you.
(913) 701-3557 View (913) 701-3557
Photo of Gail Snowbarger, MAC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gail Snowbarger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with both children and adults as they get ready for a bright future! Often, this involves navigating some challenging issues to help their newfound confidence emerge.
I enjoy working with both children and adults as they get ready for a bright future! Often, this involves navigating some challenging issues to help their newfound confidence emerge.
(913) 349-7079 View (913) 349-7079
Photo of Diane D Sinclair-Smith, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diane D Sinclair-Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you an adult looking for help with Affair or Divorce Recovery, anxiety, career questions, or depression? Does your marriage need help recovering from infidelity? I offer daytime and evening hours. Do you have parenting issues that are frustrating you and just need some direction? Are you looking for pre-marital preparation or inner healing of past trauma? I also provide equine-assisted psychotherapy (therapy done by interacting with horses). Equine therapy is done offsite at a nearby location.
Are you an adult looking for help with Affair or Divorce Recovery, anxiety, career questions, or depression? Does your marriage need help recovering from infidelity? I offer daytime and evening hours. Do you have parenting issues that are frustrating you and just need some direction? Are you looking for pre-marital preparation or inner healing of past trauma? I also provide equine-assisted psychotherapy (therapy done by interacting with horses). Equine therapy is done offsite at a nearby location.
(913) 276-0859 View (913) 276-0859
Photo of Dennis Smith, LCPC, Counselor
Dennis Smith
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I treat individuals and couples for a variety of issues. I am passionate about people, marriage, and families. My number one goal is helping you achieve your stated counseling goals. I believe your goals can be met providing you are willing to honestly address your concerns and take necessary steps to resolve them. I will walk with you through this process, and I am actively involved in your therapy process.
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I treat individuals and couples for a variety of issues. I am passionate about people, marriage, and families. My number one goal is helping you achieve your stated counseling goals. I believe your goals can be met providing you are willing to honestly address your concerns and take necessary steps to resolve them. I will walk with you through this process, and I am actively involved in your therapy process.
(913) 686-6196 View (913) 686-6196
Photo of Emily Wheeler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client is a person (any age) that feels like an outsider, has been told they’re “too much”, or is longing for connection and a place to fit in. Their parents or friends might wonder if they have Autism or ADHD, or they might get in trouble at home, work, or school. This client wants to know they’re not “crazy” or “different” and I want to help them harness these unique abilities to develop into their best and happiest self.
My ideal client is a person (any age) that feels like an outsider, has been told they’re “too much”, or is longing for connection and a place to fit in. Their parents or friends might wonder if they have Autism or ADHD, or they might get in trouble at home, work, or school. This client wants to know they’re not “crazy” or “different” and I want to help them harness these unique abilities to develop into their best and happiest self.
(913) 430-9716 View (913) 430-9716

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachel Nab, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Nab
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Overland Park, KS 66213
My name is Rachel Nab and I can't wait to meet you. My passion is coming alongside children, adults and families in their concerns and working with them through counseling to gain personal insight, see growth and ultimately find resolution to those concerns. My in-person practice serves children preschool age through approximately twelve years old as well as adolescents and adults. Virtual/online appointments are available for adolescents and adults if needed. Children receive a child-centered, play based, prescriptive approach to therapy. Older clients find needed connection in my person centered, relational counseling approach.
My name is Rachel Nab and I can't wait to meet you. My passion is coming alongside children, adults and families in their concerns and working with them through counseling to gain personal insight, see growth and ultimately find resolution to those concerns. My in-person practice serves children preschool age through approximately twelve years old as well as adolescents and adults. Virtual/online appointments are available for adolescents and adults if needed. Children receive a child-centered, play based, prescriptive approach to therapy. Older clients find needed connection in my person centered, relational counseling approach.
(913) 382-7336 View (913) 382-7336
Photo of Morgan A Mills, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Morgan A Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Leawood, KS 66211
Waitlist for new clients
Life isn't what we imagined it would be - especially when we are faced with anxiety, depression, trauma, or conflict with people we care about. Meaning, peace, and belonging can feel unattainable on our dark days. If you are feeling disconnected from yourself, others, or the life you want to live, therapy could be your first step toward healing. It can help spark your imagination for how you want your life to be and initiate steps toward change. Your relationship with yourself and those you care about can experience a new start and you can begin living fully again.
Life isn't what we imagined it would be - especially when we are faced with anxiety, depression, trauma, or conflict with people we care about. Meaning, peace, and belonging can feel unattainable on our dark days. If you are feeling disconnected from yourself, others, or the life you want to live, therapy could be your first step toward healing. It can help spark your imagination for how you want your life to be and initiate steps toward change. Your relationship with yourself and those you care about can experience a new start and you can begin living fully again.
(913) 318-5472 View (913) 318-5472
Photo of Jordanne Ehrhart - Summit Ranch, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summit Ranch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Shawnee, KS 66217
Situated on approximately 100 acres, Summit Ranch offers a comprehensive, exciting take on therapy. Summit Ranch is a non-profit that serves adolescents ages 8-18. The ranch is enhanced by the presence of two horses and two lively cats who call Summit Ranch home. Our integrative, holistic approach incorporates clinical therapy, nature, wellness, and work with animals. This approach provides a fun, supportive environment where individuals can embark on their path to healing with confidence and serenity.
Situated on approximately 100 acres, Summit Ranch offers a comprehensive, exciting take on therapy. Summit Ranch is a non-profit that serves adolescents ages 8-18. The ranch is enhanced by the presence of two horses and two lively cats who call Summit Ranch home. Our integrative, holistic approach incorporates clinical therapy, nature, wellness, and work with animals. This approach provides a fun, supportive environment where individuals can embark on their path to healing with confidence and serenity.
(913) 318-3563 View (913) 318-3563
Photo of Katelyn Frits, LCPC, Counselor
Katelyn Frits
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Katie Frits, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Leawood, Kansas. I offer virtual appointments to anyone in Kansas. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and school avoidance. My primary treatment modalities include DBT and ACT to assist clients in progressing towards their goals. I work to create a relaxing environment in which my clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. My goal is to help clients feel relaxed and judgment-free from the moment we meet.
My name is Katie Frits, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Leawood, Kansas. I offer virtual appointments to anyone in Kansas. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and school avoidance. My primary treatment modalities include DBT and ACT to assist clients in progressing towards their goals. I work to create a relaxing environment in which my clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. My goal is to help clients feel relaxed and judgment-free from the moment we meet.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Rebekah Ureña - New Beginnings Counseling and Educational Services, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Beginnings Counseling and Educational Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you're navigating big transitions, battling constant anxiety, feeling the weight of depression, or grappling with challenges like infertility. You might find yourself stuck in a cycle of overthinking, exhaustion, or self-doubt. If you're a teen, adult, or parent of a child trying to make sense of it all, you're not alone. Life doesn’t come with a manual, but therapy can be a space to get unstuck, discover clarity, and build the tools to thrive.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you're navigating big transitions, battling constant anxiety, feeling the weight of depression, or grappling with challenges like infertility. You might find yourself stuck in a cycle of overthinking, exhaustion, or self-doubt. If you're a teen, adult, or parent of a child trying to make sense of it all, you're not alone. Life doesn’t come with a manual, but therapy can be a space to get unstuck, discover clarity, and build the tools to thrive.
(620) 501-9424 View (620) 501-9424

See more therapy options for Gardner

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Gardner, KS

10+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in Gardner, KS who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
93% Anxiety
87% Relationship Issues
87% Self Esteem
80% Family Conflict
80% Stress
73% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
70% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Gardner, KS see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Gardner?

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.