Therapists in Houma, LA

Photo of Michael Ritchey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Michael Ritchey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by anxiety, trauma, addiction, or major life transitions, and is ready—though maybe nervous or unsure—to take steps toward change. They may feel stuck, disconnected from themselves, or uncertain about the future. They want relief from emotional overwhelm, clarity about their direction, and practical tools to feel more grounded and in control. Above all, they’re seeking a safe, judgment-free space where they can be heard, understood, and supported in creating meaningful, lasting change.
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by anxiety, trauma, addiction, or major life transitions, and is ready—though maybe nervous or unsure—to take steps toward change. They may feel stuck, disconnected from themselves, or uncertain about the future. They want relief from emotional overwhelm, clarity about their direction, and practical tools to feel more grounded and in control. Above all, they’re seeking a safe, judgment-free space where they can be heard, understood, and supported in creating meaningful, lasting change.
(985) 257-4081 View (985) 257-4081
Dawn Nugel Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Houma, LA 70363
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor (BACS) in Louisiana with over 28 years of diverse experience. I earned my MSW in 1999, and have been clinically licensed since 2007. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, client-centered care that empowers individuals to overcome life’s challenges. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, anger management issues, race-based stress, life transitions, and marginalized communities and am a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in mental health care.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor (BACS) in Louisiana with over 28 years of diverse experience. I earned my MSW in 1999, and have been clinically licensed since 2007. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, client-centered care that empowers individuals to overcome life’s challenges. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, anger management issues, race-based stress, life transitions, and marginalized communities and am a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in mental health care.
(985) 616-3671 View (985) 616-3671
Photo of Brandon Bergeron, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brandon Bergeron
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Houma, LA 70360
One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a therapist is working alongside individuals who are motivated and willing to invest in themselves. In my therapeutic practice, I empower my clients to embark on a path of self-discovery, harnessing their innate potential for growth, resilience, and intentional living. Together, we explore your challenges and develop practical solutions that support a more satisfying life.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a therapist is working alongside individuals who are motivated and willing to invest in themselves. In my therapeutic practice, I empower my clients to embark on a path of self-discovery, harnessing their innate potential for growth, resilience, and intentional living. Together, we explore your challenges and develop practical solutions that support a more satisfying life.
(985) 441-8243 View (985) 441-8243
Photo of Stephen Billiot, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Stephen Billiot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’ll be the first to admit that talking to someone about your thoughts and feelings is hard. My job is to make that part easier. I promise, whatever it is you are facing, you do not have to face it alone. I want to be in your corner and to help you fight to get yourself back from whatever it is life has thrown at you.
I’ll be the first to admit that talking to someone about your thoughts and feelings is hard. My job is to make that part easier. I promise, whatever it is you are facing, you do not have to face it alone. I want to be in your corner and to help you fight to get yourself back from whatever it is life has thrown at you.
(985) 665-5620 View (985) 665-5620
Photo of Shay Burns, Psychologist, PsyD
Shay Burns
Psychologist, PsyD
Houma, LA 70360
Are you seeking clarity, healing, or a deeper understanding of yourself? Are you ready to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of calm and confidence? Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, a medical concern, or any other challenge, we can work together in therapy to foster self-discovery, build resilience, and achieve meaningful change. If you’re searching for clarity on a diagnosis, cognitive changes, personal growth, or have other goals, or have other goals we’re here to empower you with answers and support through our assessment services.
Are you seeking clarity, healing, or a deeper understanding of yourself? Are you ready to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of calm and confidence? Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, a medical concern, or any other challenge, we can work together in therapy to foster self-discovery, build resilience, and achieve meaningful change. If you’re searching for clarity on a diagnosis, cognitive changes, personal growth, or have other goals, or have other goals we’re here to empower you with answers and support through our assessment services.
(985) 328-3154 View (985) 328-3154
Photo of Jason Cade Fanguy - HealthyClimb Mental Health Services and Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
HealthyClimb Mental Health Services and Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide therapy services to residents of Louisiana, Utah, South Carolina and Colorado for a multitude of presenting concerns/issues. I incorporate basic and advanced tenets of wellness, coping, behavioral nutrition and behavior change into the counseling process, facilitating the life-changing and transformative process that empowers clients on their journey to better mental and physical health and thus, a better quality of life. I'm a solution-focused practitioner and will work to facilitate your healing and change process the moment we begin working together.
I provide therapy services to residents of Louisiana, Utah, South Carolina and Colorado for a multitude of presenting concerns/issues. I incorporate basic and advanced tenets of wellness, coping, behavioral nutrition and behavior change into the counseling process, facilitating the life-changing and transformative process that empowers clients on their journey to better mental and physical health and thus, a better quality of life. I'm a solution-focused practitioner and will work to facilitate your healing and change process the moment we begin working together.
(985) 304-6830 View (985) 304-6830
Photo of Tammy Gibson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Tammy Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Houma, LA 70360
Hi! My name is Tammy Gibson, LPC, NCC. Over the last 19 years I have worked in non-profit and the school system as a teacher but most recently as a school counselor. It is my passion to help others! Here at Southern Grace I offer counseling to children and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, self-esteem issues, and general life transitions through a strength-based approach using cognitive behavioral therapy techniques (in other words learning how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected) and person-centered therapy.
Hi! My name is Tammy Gibson, LPC, NCC. Over the last 19 years I have worked in non-profit and the school system as a teacher but most recently as a school counselor. It is my passion to help others! Here at Southern Grace I offer counseling to children and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, self-esteem issues, and general life transitions through a strength-based approach using cognitive behavioral therapy techniques (in other words learning how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected) and person-centered therapy.
(985) 306-5510 View (985) 306-5510
Photo of Marquita N Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Marquita N Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your authentic self is waiting to burst free. You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Problems will always present and often times pile on. Everyone needs a safe place to unpack and organize. We inhabit a full world where loneliness is at an all time high. Take this step for yourself. Life is challenging at best, but even when life's great there is room for growth. I am personally and professionally invested in the betterment of others. Whether you are seeking confidence, coping skills, better relationships, to process trauma or any life experience, It's my privilege to help you see how resilient and capable you are.
Your authentic self is waiting to burst free. You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Problems will always present and often times pile on. Everyone needs a safe place to unpack and organize. We inhabit a full world where loneliness is at an all time high. Take this step for yourself. Life is challenging at best, but even when life's great there is room for growth. I am personally and professionally invested in the betterment of others. Whether you are seeking confidence, coping skills, better relationships, to process trauma or any life experience, It's my privilege to help you see how resilient and capable you are.
(985) 202-9417 View (985) 202-9417
Photo of Belinda Bergeron, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Belinda Bergeron
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Houma, LA 70360
In counseling, I utilize an integrative approach that combines reality therapy, person-centered, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I have 14 years experience working with adults in a 12-step program. This experience has given me tools and knowledge that can help others achieve their goals. I also have over 3000 hours of experience working with children 6-18 on issues such as ADHD, behavior, emotional and mood problems, social difficulties, and adjustment issues. With both children and adults, I focus on the "here and now" and the issue at hand utilizing the strengths and abilities of my clients.
In counseling, I utilize an integrative approach that combines reality therapy, person-centered, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I have 14 years experience working with adults in a 12-step program. This experience has given me tools and knowledge that can help others achieve their goals. I also have over 3000 hours of experience working with children 6-18 on issues such as ADHD, behavior, emotional and mood problems, social difficulties, and adjustment issues. With both children and adults, I focus on the "here and now" and the issue at hand utilizing the strengths and abilities of my clients.
(985) 200-2612 View (985) 200-2612
Photo of Dr. Victoria Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCTP, NCC
Dr. Victoria Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCTP, NCC
7 Endorsed
Houma, LA 70364
Medical trauma + chronic illness therapy: Sometimes it feels like your illness runs your life. Each morning, you wake up wondering if it will be a “bad day" or a "good day" knowing that your body will make that decision. You might have migraines, stomach issues, and even chronic pain. Maybe you’re overwhelmed with managing a chronic illness, organizing doctor’s appointments, and tracking symptoms. You feel embarrassed at the thought of feeling bad when you go out - so you just don't go out.
Medical trauma + chronic illness therapy: Sometimes it feels like your illness runs your life. Each morning, you wake up wondering if it will be a “bad day" or a "good day" knowing that your body will make that decision. You might have migraines, stomach issues, and even chronic pain. Maybe you’re overwhelmed with managing a chronic illness, organizing doctor’s appointments, and tracking symptoms. You feel embarrassed at the thought of feeling bad when you go out - so you just don't go out.
(985) 509-8938 View (985) 509-8938
Photo of Bliss Cunningham - Bliss Cunningham, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Bliss Cunningham, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Houma, LA 70360
I often hear that people think that therapy is telling a complete stranger their life story while that stranger just smiles and nods, a type of one-sided relationship. While I will be a stranger to you at first, I'm also a real person. I'm someone who wants to connect with you while helping you navigate the story of your life. Making the initial call to seek therapy can be scary at first, but therapy doesn't have to be feared or difficult. I want to help you enjoy the process of identifying your goals and seeking to create the life you want to live. This process will be unique to you because therapy with me isn't one size fits all.
I often hear that people think that therapy is telling a complete stranger their life story while that stranger just smiles and nods, a type of one-sided relationship. While I will be a stranger to you at first, I'm also a real person. I'm someone who wants to connect with you while helping you navigate the story of your life. Making the initial call to seek therapy can be scary at first, but therapy doesn't have to be feared or difficult. I want to help you enjoy the process of identifying your goals and seeking to create the life you want to live. This process will be unique to you because therapy with me isn't one size fits all.
(985) 379-7718 View (985) 379-7718
Photo of Esther M Gorsha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Esther M Gorsha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have always been deeply committed to helping individuals navigate the complexities of life. My passion for this field stems from a genuine desire to support others in overcoming their challenges, achieving their goals, and realizing their full potential. My approach is holistic, recognizing the intricate connection between mind, body and environment. My goal is to not only address your immediate concerns but also to foster resilience and long-term well-being.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have always been deeply committed to helping individuals navigate the complexities of life. My passion for this field stems from a genuine desire to support others in overcoming their challenges, achieving their goals, and realizing their full potential. My approach is holistic, recognizing the intricate connection between mind, body and environment. My goal is to not only address your immediate concerns but also to foster resilience and long-term well-being.
(985) 863-4448 View (985) 863-4448
Photo of Malika N. McKinley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Malika N. McKinley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Houma, LA 70360
Many people come to therapy feeling exhausted from carrying so much on their own. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, self-doubt, relationship challenges, or a major life transition that has left you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself. Together, we'll create a space where you can slow down, make sense of what's weighing on you, and build the confidence to move forward. My clients are often looking for practical tools, emotional support, and a deeper understanding of themselves so they can feel more balanced, resilient, and in control of their lives.
Many people come to therapy feeling exhausted from carrying so much on their own. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, self-doubt, relationship challenges, or a major life transition that has left you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself. Together, we'll create a space where you can slow down, make sense of what's weighing on you, and build the confidence to move forward. My clients are often looking for practical tools, emotional support, and a deeper understanding of themselves so they can feel more balanced, resilient, and in control of their lives.
(985) 614-7698 View (985) 614-7698
Photo of Kayla Duplantis, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kayla Duplantis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Houma, LA 70360
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Has life transitions caused you to feel overwhelmed or panicked, or even grieving how you used to live. Events such as starting a new school, job, the ending or beginning of a relationship, or a pregnancy can be a huge change in ones life. It is my goal to create a safe place where I can help you navigate and over come these challenges. I want to help you learn healthy coping skills and ways to create positive changes to your life that will help you reach your goals while continuing to grow and and move forward in life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Has life transitions caused you to feel overwhelmed or panicked, or even grieving how you used to live. Events such as starting a new school, job, the ending or beginning of a relationship, or a pregnancy can be a huge change in ones life. It is my goal to create a safe place where I can help you navigate and over come these challenges. I want to help you learn healthy coping skills and ways to create positive changes to your life that will help you reach your goals while continuing to grow and and move forward in life.
(985) 238-3658 View (985) 238-3658
Photo of Lacey Picou-Billiot, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT
Lacey Picou-Billiot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT
Houma, LA 70360
Looking for counseling in Houma? As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2005, my goal is to help individuals, couples and families cope with the changes and/or issues in their lives by providing counseling and mediation designed to meet their needs.
Looking for counseling in Houma? As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2005, my goal is to help individuals, couples and families cope with the changes and/or issues in their lives by providing counseling and mediation designed to meet their needs.
(985) 313-9819 View (985) 313-9819
Photo of Ernest Christopher Ellender - Ernest Ellender Life Coaching, PhD
Ernest Ellender Life Coaching
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houma, LA 70360
If you’re someone who’s survived a chaotic or even traumatic childhood with dysfunctional family dynamics and now feels called to truly thrive—not just cope—you’re in the right place. My coaching helps ambitious, growth-driven people like you break old patterns, develop mature self-love, and create lives aligned with their thriving vision—not their past. You’ve been doing the hard work of surviving. Now it’s time to pursue more and build out your truest self steeped in greater self-confidence, interpersonal harmony, and joy in life. This is where healing meets purpose—and where you finally meet your thriving self.
If you’re someone who’s survived a chaotic or even traumatic childhood with dysfunctional family dynamics and now feels called to truly thrive—not just cope—you’re in the right place. My coaching helps ambitious, growth-driven people like you break old patterns, develop mature self-love, and create lives aligned with their thriving vision—not their past. You’ve been doing the hard work of surviving. Now it’s time to pursue more and build out your truest self steeped in greater self-confidence, interpersonal harmony, and joy in life. This is where healing meets purpose—and where you finally meet your thriving self.
(985) 332-3984 View (985) 332-3984
Photo of Cierra Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cierra Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Houma, LA 70360
Waitlist for new clients
At Renewed Blossom Counseling, I am dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment where you can begin your journey towards healing and growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping you achieve your goals. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, or other personal struggles, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your unique needs.
At Renewed Blossom Counseling, I am dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment where you can begin your journey towards healing and growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping you achieve your goals. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, or other personal struggles, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your unique needs.
(985) 866-3091 View (985) 866-3091
Photo of Tabitha Kate Guidry-Turner - Tabitha Guidry-Turner LPC-A, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LPC-A, LMHC
Tabitha Guidry-Turner LPC-A, LMHC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LPC-A, LMHC
Houma, LA 70360
I provide counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults in Houma, Louisiana. After completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I spent several years working closely with the sheriff’s department and child protective services. During that time, I realized I wanted to support individuals and families on a deeper level than my role allowed, which inspired me to return to school and earn my master’s degree in counseling. I am now a licensed counselor in both Louisiana and Florida.
I provide counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults in Houma, Louisiana. After completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I spent several years working closely with the sheriff’s department and child protective services. During that time, I realized I wanted to support individuals and families on a deeper level than my role allowed, which inspired me to return to school and earn my master’s degree in counseling. I am now a licensed counselor in both Louisiana and Florida.
(985) 332-3680 View (985) 332-3680
Photo of Qiana Daniels-Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Qiana Daniels-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Houma, LA 70360
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor (BACS) in Louisiana. I specialize in grief, anxiety, stress, and depression. My therapy approach is warm, authentic, and transparent, creating a safe space for exploring thoughts and feelings. I believe in every individual's capacity to grow and heal.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor (BACS) in Louisiana. I specialize in grief, anxiety, stress, and depression. My therapy approach is warm, authentic, and transparent, creating a safe space for exploring thoughts and feelings. I believe in every individual's capacity to grow and heal.
(225) 463-2488 View (225) 463-2488
Photo of Sheridene Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW.
Sheridene Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW.
Houma, LA 70360
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating anxiety, overwhelming emotions, family stress, and major life transitions. Many of the clients and families I meet feel stuck, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. Parents often reach out when their child is struggling with big feelings, behavior changes, or difficulty coping with stress. Others come to therapy during seasons of uncertainty, health challenges, or when life simply feels heavier than it used to.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating anxiety, overwhelming emotions, family stress, and major life transitions. Many of the clients and families I meet feel stuck, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. Parents often reach out when their child is struggling with big feelings, behavior changes, or difficulty coping with stress. Others come to therapy during seasons of uncertainty, health challenges, or when life simply feels heavier than it used to.
(985) 306-8743 View (985) 306-8743

See more therapy options for Houma

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Houma, LA

60+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Houma, LA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
95% Social Anxiety
95% Health Anxiety
95% Driving Anxiety
87% Depression
73% Grief
72% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Houma, LA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Houma?

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.