Therapists in Walton, KY

Photo of Dayna Philpot - Hope Haven Counseling, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Hope Haven Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Walton, KY 41094
Our thoughts and feelings are often difficult to process on our own. Having someone neutral to encourage us on our personal life journey provides a serene opportunity for healing and growth. If you are struggling to find your way, you are not alone! At Hope Haven Counseling, my initial goal is to provide a safe place where you feel free to be honest and open about who you are. Welcome to the first step on your pathway of self-awareness and personal growth!
Our thoughts and feelings are often difficult to process on our own. Having someone neutral to encourage us on our personal life journey provides a serene opportunity for healing and growth. If you are struggling to find your way, you are not alone! At Hope Haven Counseling, my initial goal is to provide a safe place where you feel free to be honest and open about who you are. Welcome to the first step on your pathway of self-awareness and personal growth!
(859) 495-3701 View (859) 495-3701
Photo of Lauryn Reckner - Reckner Counseling, Counselor, LPCC
Reckner Counseling
Counselor, LPCC
Walton, KY 41094
Immediate availability for in person and telehealth! As a licensed counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of PTSD,anxiety, depression, women’s issues, LGBTQIA+ experiences and above all else, being human. I believe in creating a comforting, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable and explore their personal challenges. My approach is trauma informed, client-centered and collaborative, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives and find healing at their own pace. I strive to support each person on their journey toward resilience and self-discovery.
Immediate availability for in person and telehealth! As a licensed counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of PTSD,anxiety, depression, women’s issues, LGBTQIA+ experiences and above all else, being human. I believe in creating a comforting, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable and explore their personal challenges. My approach is trauma informed, client-centered and collaborative, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives and find healing at their own pace. I strive to support each person on their journey toward resilience and self-discovery.
(859) 927-8712 View (859) 927-8712
Photo of Syrene Lawal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Syrene Lawal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
DBT skills have the power to transform your life by improving your ability to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, be mindful and ask for what you want while maintaining your self-respect. If you are struggling with negative thoughts, rumination, harmful behaviors or relationship difficulties, DBT can give you the awareness and skills to make changes! I work with clients who struggle with managing emotions or want to change specific behaviors. I have extensive experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma and personality disorders.
DBT skills have the power to transform your life by improving your ability to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, be mindful and ask for what you want while maintaining your self-respect. If you are struggling with negative thoughts, rumination, harmful behaviors or relationship difficulties, DBT can give you the awareness and skills to make changes! I work with clients who struggle with managing emotions or want to change specific behaviors. I have extensive experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma and personality disorders.
(509) 661-3130 View (509) 661-3130
Photo of Diana Kay Brown, Counselor, LPCA
Diana Kay Brown
Counselor, LPCA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a LPCA and provide counseling services to teens, adults and the elderly. I believe that no matter what the age group, contentment with one’s life is valued by most (if not all) people. I believe that contentment is found primarily by focusing on the beneficial aspects of reality (rather than the detrimental). This type of thought focus/management is a technique found in forms of counseling such as CBT. As a former teacher, I particularly like CBT because once the skills are learned, clients become self reliant (in the sense that they can apply the learned skills to maintain their mental wellness throughout their lives).
I am a LPCA and provide counseling services to teens, adults and the elderly. I believe that no matter what the age group, contentment with one’s life is valued by most (if not all) people. I believe that contentment is found primarily by focusing on the beneficial aspects of reality (rather than the detrimental). This type of thought focus/management is a technique found in forms of counseling such as CBT. As a former teacher, I particularly like CBT because once the skills are learned, clients become self reliant (in the sense that they can apply the learned skills to maintain their mental wellness throughout their lives).
(859) 374-3316 View (859) 374-3316
Photo of Aislinn Baldi, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, SATP-C
Aislinn Baldi
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, SATP-C
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
You’re a people pleaser who wants to have healthy relationships and stop feeling so worn down and stretched thin all the time. Perhaps you’ve been striving to make sense of life in the midst of trauma, betrayal, relationship struggles, divorce, empty-nesting, or job changes and you feel like you’re drowning. Sometimes, you can’t shake the feeling you’re a failure. Your creativity is stifled, your energy is gone, you feel lost, you don't know who you are anymore, and your faith may be shaken. You just want to feel confident and capable and safe again, no matter what life brings you.
You’re a people pleaser who wants to have healthy relationships and stop feeling so worn down and stretched thin all the time. Perhaps you’ve been striving to make sense of life in the midst of trauma, betrayal, relationship struggles, divorce, empty-nesting, or job changes and you feel like you’re drowning. Sometimes, you can’t shake the feeling you’re a failure. Your creativity is stifled, your energy is gone, you feel lost, you don't know who you are anymore, and your faith may be shaken. You just want to feel confident and capable and safe again, no matter what life brings you.
(859) 413-4978 View (859) 413-4978
Photo of Melanie R Shannon, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Melanie R Shannon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to my page! My name is Mel Shannon and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My counseling style is kind, empathetic, client-centered, and solution focused. My number one goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel safe talking about whatever is going on in their lives and to help them move forward and reach their goals. I believe in being genuine and open with my clients and moving at whatever pace they need to feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I believe that everyone has great potential to make improvements in their lives and with the right relationship and help, it can be achieved!
Welcome to my page! My name is Mel Shannon and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My counseling style is kind, empathetic, client-centered, and solution focused. My number one goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel safe talking about whatever is going on in their lives and to help them move forward and reach their goals. I believe in being genuine and open with my clients and moving at whatever pace they need to feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I believe that everyone has great potential to make improvements in their lives and with the right relationship and help, it can be achieved!
(859) 681-8113 View (859) 681-8113
Photo of Aisling Henschel, Psychologist, PhD
Aisling Henschel
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're struggling after a painful loss or a traumatic experience, you're not alone and you don’t have to keep carrying it all by yourself. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who helps people heal from trauma, PTSD, and grief. Whether you've gone through something recent or you're carrying pain that’s been with you for years, I offer a safe, supportive space to process what’s happened and begin to feel like yourself again. Trauma and loss can change how we see the world and ourselves.
If you're struggling after a painful loss or a traumatic experience, you're not alone and you don’t have to keep carrying it all by yourself. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who helps people heal from trauma, PTSD, and grief. Whether you've gone through something recent or you're carrying pain that’s been with you for years, I offer a safe, supportive space to process what’s happened and begin to feel like yourself again. Trauma and loss can change how we see the world and ourselves.
(513) 650-7880 View (513) 650-7880
Photo of Dr. Kathryn Blair Plymale, Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, RPT
Dr. Kathryn Blair Plymale
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, RPT
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I can't wait to meet you and join you on your journey to wellness. I'm Kathryn, or Kat, I've been in the field of mental health for over 20 years. I treat ages 3-103! As someone who specializes in play therapy, I've learned to think outside the box and integrate creative counseling techniques for children and adolescents. With all of my clients, I believe YOU know yourself best. I'm just here to hold space for you to find yourself!
I can't wait to meet you and join you on your journey to wellness. I'm Kathryn, or Kat, I've been in the field of mental health for over 20 years. I treat ages 3-103! As someone who specializes in play therapy, I've learned to think outside the box and integrate creative counseling techniques for children and adolescents. With all of my clients, I believe YOU know yourself best. I'm just here to hold space for you to find yourself!
(859) 535-0702 View (859) 535-0702
Photo of Analisa Hagstrom, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Analisa Hagstrom
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I’m Analisa. You’re probably here because you’re ready for things to change. Perhaps you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or defeated, stuck in old relational patterns that just aren’t working, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and the world. If that’s you, I’m glad you’re here! My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that humans are wired for connection. My goal as a therapist is to help young adults understand how their lived experiences and belief systems have shaped their sense of self, their relationships with others and the world. Let's be real - life is messy! That's where therapy comes in.
Hi! I’m Analisa. You’re probably here because you’re ready for things to change. Perhaps you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or defeated, stuck in old relational patterns that just aren’t working, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and the world. If that’s you, I’m glad you’re here! My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that humans are wired for connection. My goal as a therapist is to help young adults understand how their lived experiences and belief systems have shaped their sense of self, their relationships with others and the world. Let's be real - life is messy! That's where therapy comes in.
View
Photo of Marjie J Appenfelder, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Marjie J Appenfelder
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Serves Area
Marjie is a licensed professional clinical counselor who is passionate about helping people. With a masters degree in clinical mental health and art therapy, Marjie has been helping people for over a decade, taking a mind, body, spirit approach. Marjie brings a unique set of tools to each session. Marjie has gained experience working in community mental health, foster care, a hospice setting, acute psychiatric inpatient, working with those with severe mental illness in an outpatient setting, and private practice outpatient dealing with the in’s and out’s of every day life.
Marjie is a licensed professional clinical counselor who is passionate about helping people. With a masters degree in clinical mental health and art therapy, Marjie has been helping people for over a decade, taking a mind, body, spirit approach. Marjie brings a unique set of tools to each session. Marjie has gained experience working in community mental health, foster care, a hospice setting, acute psychiatric inpatient, working with those with severe mental illness in an outpatient setting, and private practice outpatient dealing with the in’s and out’s of every day life.
(859) 659-6824 View (859) 659-6824
Photo of Amy Homer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Amy Homer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Life brings challenges… sometimes all at once. We may not be able to control what or when things happen but there are tools that can help us make it through those challenges successfully. You (or your child) may be looking for a safe space to process your thoughts and feelings or to develop new behaviors in a non-judgmental, supportive environment. Therapy gives us an opportunity to learn, grow, and become the best version of ourselves, whether we are 8 or 88.
Life brings challenges… sometimes all at once. We may not be able to control what or when things happen but there are tools that can help us make it through those challenges successfully. You (or your child) may be looking for a safe space to process your thoughts and feelings or to develop new behaviors in a non-judgmental, supportive environment. Therapy gives us an opportunity to learn, grow, and become the best version of ourselves, whether we are 8 or 88.
(859) 630-2336 View (859) 630-2336
Photo of Stephanie McDonald, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Stephanie McDonald
Counselor, MA, LPCC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Stephanie graduated from Murray State University, with a Bachelor in Sociology. After moving to Cincinnati, she attended Cincinnati Christian University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Counseling with special focus on play and family therapy. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a member of The Association for Play Therapy. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping and collecting new experiences with family and friends.
Stephanie graduated from Murray State University, with a Bachelor in Sociology. After moving to Cincinnati, she attended Cincinnati Christian University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Counseling with special focus on play and family therapy. Stephanie is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a member of The Association for Play Therapy. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping and collecting new experiences with family and friends.
(859) 402-2634 View (859) 402-2634

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Scott Boutet, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Michael Scott Boutet
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
7 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Appointments this week............................. Life doesn’t come with a manual, and many of us find ourselves navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or trauma without clear direction. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply unsure of what’s next, you're not alone—and support is available. We weren’t born with blueprints for how to manage life’s challenges, but I believe healing begins when we stop trying to carry everything alone. I’m here to walk alongside you, offering guidance, support, and tools tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Appointments this week............................. Life doesn’t come with a manual, and many of us find ourselves navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or trauma without clear direction. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply unsure of what’s next, you're not alone—and support is available. We weren’t born with blueprints for how to manage life’s challenges, but I believe healing begins when we stop trying to carry everything alone. I’m here to walk alongside you, offering guidance, support, and tools tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(859) 715-1105 View (859) 715-1105
Photo of D'ominique Elie, Counselor, MA, LPCC
D'ominique Elie
Counselor, MA, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
First, let me say thank you for considering me to walk this journey with you. I know that therapy isn’t easy and healing isn’t linear. I want you to know how brave you are for taking the first step to finding a therapist—I know it wasn’t easy. I believe that allowing clients the space to be heard, valued, understood, safe and authentic is key to fostering trust within the therapeutic relationship and ultimately facilitating change. I consider myself an eclectic and integrative therapist and some of the modalities I use are Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
First, let me say thank you for considering me to walk this journey with you. I know that therapy isn’t easy and healing isn’t linear. I want you to know how brave you are for taking the first step to finding a therapist—I know it wasn’t easy. I believe that allowing clients the space to be heard, valued, understood, safe and authentic is key to fostering trust within the therapeutic relationship and ultimately facilitating change. I consider myself an eclectic and integrative therapist and some of the modalities I use are Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(513) 960-5655 View (513) 960-5655
Photo of Mike Reeser - Critical Stress and Wellness Center, Psychologist, PhD
Critical Stress and Wellness Center
Psychologist, PhD
Erlanger, KY 41018
Critical Stress and Wellness Center aims to serve first responders and the general public as a multi-specialty group specializing in trauma-informed care, psychological assessments and forensics. Pulling from mindfulness-based practice, cognitive behavioral therapy, and advanced trauma reprocessing therapies, such as EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy, we can work to reprocess emotional connections to the past, restructure maladaptive thinking patterns in the present, and learn how to cope with the unavoidable stressors of future.
Critical Stress and Wellness Center aims to serve first responders and the general public as a multi-specialty group specializing in trauma-informed care, psychological assessments and forensics. Pulling from mindfulness-based practice, cognitive behavioral therapy, and advanced trauma reprocessing therapies, such as EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy, we can work to reprocess emotional connections to the past, restructure maladaptive thinking patterns in the present, and learn how to cope with the unavoidable stressors of future.
(859) 203-1429 View (859) 203-1429
Photo of Jessica Estep, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Estep
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
3 Endorsed
Florence, KY 41042
Waitlist for new clients
Life brings about challenges for everyone. Sometimes you need someone standing in your corner to navigate those challenges. My name is Jessica Estep. I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. I enjoy working with couples, families, individuals, kids, and teens. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational distress, and more. I am a collaborative therapist who works with the client to create and meet their desired goals. I am here to support and encourage you throughout your healing journey.
Life brings about challenges for everyone. Sometimes you need someone standing in your corner to navigate those challenges. My name is Jessica Estep. I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. I enjoy working with couples, families, individuals, kids, and teens. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational distress, and more. I am a collaborative therapist who works with the client to create and meet their desired goals. I am here to support and encourage you throughout your healing journey.
(859) 809-2865 View (859) 809-2865
Photo of David Baum - ASAP Cincinnati, Psychologist, PsyD
ASAP Cincinnati
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Do you know a teen who is struggling with mental health or addiction problems? If so, ASAP can help. ASAP provides specialized treatment for teens. Our treatment programs are built on evidence-based practices that ensure effective care for your child. Adhering to the continuum of care at ASAP maximizes your teen's likelihood for success in our treatment programs.
Do you know a teen who is struggling with mental health or addiction problems? If so, ASAP can help. ASAP provides specialized treatment for teens. Our treatment programs are built on evidence-based practices that ensure effective care for your child. Adhering to the continuum of care at ASAP maximizes your teen's likelihood for success in our treatment programs.
(513) 647-4136 View (513) 647-4136
Photo of Valerie Martin - Valerie Martin Counseling & Consultation Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Valerie Martin Counseling & Consultation Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Online Only
Ready to Find Hope? Joy? Balance? I Am Here to Help You Achieve These Goals! I am Valerie Martin, and I am licensed to practice in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky! I specialize in supporting adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis, relationship difficulties, stress, struggling with life adjustments/transitions such as parenting, and grief. If you are experiencing stress, overwhelmed, anxiety, or depression, I am here to support you! I look forward to meeting you and helping you navigate life’s challenges!
Ready to Find Hope? Joy? Balance? I Am Here to Help You Achieve These Goals! I am Valerie Martin, and I am licensed to practice in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky! I specialize in supporting adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis, relationship difficulties, stress, struggling with life adjustments/transitions such as parenting, and grief. If you are experiencing stress, overwhelmed, anxiety, or depression, I am here to support you! I look forward to meeting you and helping you navigate life’s challenges!
(859) 208-2966 View (859) 208-2966
Photo of Brieh Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Brieh Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
2 Endorsed
Covington, KY 41011
Hi, I’m Brieh, a therapist and social worker who brings warmth, curiosity, and a deep trust in your capacity to heal and grow. I’m here to support you in reconnecting with your resilience and sense of self, moving at a pace that honors your needs.
Hi, I’m Brieh, a therapist and social worker who brings warmth, curiosity, and a deep trust in your capacity to heal and grow. I’m here to support you in reconnecting with your resilience and sense of self, moving at a pace that honors your needs.
(859) 765-7982 View (859) 765-7982
Photo of Danielle Petronelli, Marriage & Family Therapist, CST, IMFT
Danielle Petronelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, CST, IMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Balanced Life and Intimacy. Sex, Relationship, and Individual Therapy. Helping you find the balance between real life and your own personal, relationship, and intimate goals. At Balanced Life and Intimacy we believe that true well-being stems from a harmonious balance between self-care and meaningful connections. Our mission is to support individuals and couples in navigating life’s daily stressors, while fostering deeper intimacy and emotional fulfillment.
Balanced Life and Intimacy. Sex, Relationship, and Individual Therapy. Helping you find the balance between real life and your own personal, relationship, and intimate goals. At Balanced Life and Intimacy we believe that true well-being stems from a harmonious balance between self-care and meaningful connections. Our mission is to support individuals and couples in navigating life’s daily stressors, while fostering deeper intimacy and emotional fulfillment.
(513) 951-1443 View (513) 951-1443

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Walton, KY

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Walton, KY who prioritize treating:

92% Stress
83% Depression
83% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
90% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
90% United Medical Resources (UMR)

How Therapists in Walton, KY see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Walton?

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.