Therapists in Madisonville, LA

Photo of Cammie Taylor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cammie Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
Over the past decade, I have served in various roles, including child protection specialist for the state and a licensed social worker within the education system. My expertise extends to navigating Bulletin 1508, 504 plans, and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Specializing in supporting children, adolescents, and families, I address challenges such as learning disabilities, ADHD, anger outbursts, depression, relationship issues, academic concerns, and anxiety.
Over the past decade, I have served in various roles, including child protection specialist for the state and a licensed social worker within the education system. My expertise extends to navigating Bulletin 1508, 504 plans, and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Specializing in supporting children, adolescents, and families, I address challenges such as learning disabilities, ADHD, anger outbursts, depression, relationship issues, academic concerns, and anxiety.
(985) 531-8563 View (985) 531-8563
Photo of Michael Tassin - Freedom Within, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Freedom Within, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
Transition is a natural part of life whether a transition from high school to college, getting married or divorced, or changing careers. Both positive and negative transition can bring stress into the family. I work with Adults & Children 7 years and above. As a military combat veteran, I have interacted with cultures around the globe. Assisting active military, veterans, and their families is a passion of mine. Conversely, I have great experience in settings where the average client has not had military experience. I take a direct approach when working with people where you meeting your goals is the focus for the sessions.
Transition is a natural part of life whether a transition from high school to college, getting married or divorced, or changing careers. Both positive and negative transition can bring stress into the family. I work with Adults & Children 7 years and above. As a military combat veteran, I have interacted with cultures around the globe. Assisting active military, veterans, and their families is a passion of mine. Conversely, I have great experience in settings where the average client has not had military experience. I take a direct approach when working with people where you meeting your goals is the focus for the sessions.
(985) 202-5650 View (985) 202-5650
Photo of Dr. Reid Doster, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Reid Doster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447  (Online Only)
It takes courage to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and clinical pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples and families to resolve common human problems. I believe you will benefit from the clinical competence, experience and maturity gained from more than forty years in practice, and will quickly realize I sincerely care about you. When you reach out to me, I will do my best to respond promptly, without your waiting too long for an appointment. So, call or write today, and don't be surprised if I personally answer the phone.
It takes courage to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and clinical pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples and families to resolve common human problems. I believe you will benefit from the clinical competence, experience and maturity gained from more than forty years in practice, and will quickly realize I sincerely care about you. When you reach out to me, I will do my best to respond promptly, without your waiting too long for an appointment. So, call or write today, and don't be surprised if I personally answer the phone.
(985) 236-4164 View (985) 236-4164
Photo of Susan A Stein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan A Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
I have over 30 years experience in the mental health field. My specialties include treating Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. I work with adults using CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. My practice focuses on personal growth issues and supportive therapy. I also focus on teaching and/or reinforcing coping skills.
I have over 30 years experience in the mental health field. My specialties include treating Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. I work with adults using CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. My practice focuses on personal growth issues and supportive therapy. I also focus on teaching and/or reinforcing coping skills.
(985) 664-4868 View (985) 664-4868
Photo of Suzanne M Kelley, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanne M Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
I work with a wide variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, family therapy, couples and life issues, just to name a few. The populations I work with are pre-teens, teens, young adults, adults, and couples. My techniques vary based on the needs of the client, ultimately I want to make the client feel comfortable with the therapy process.
I work with a wide variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, family therapy, couples and life issues, just to name a few. The populations I work with are pre-teens, teens, young adults, adults, and couples. My techniques vary based on the needs of the client, ultimately I want to make the client feel comfortable with the therapy process.
(985) 222-2964 View (985) 222-2964
Photo of Tara Lemon Bleakley - Bleakley Counseling LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bleakley Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
Welcome! At Bleakley Counseling LLC, we know that reaching out for help from someone you have never met can seem stressful and overwhelming. We will try our best to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible. With 15 years of experience, Tara Lemon Bleakley MA, LPC currently practices general counseling with a focus in the following areas: behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, stress, problems with self-esteem, relationship problems, transitioning problems, parenting, step parenting, divorce, blended family issues, marital issues, trauma related issues, pregnancy issues, infertility and oppositional defiant disorder.
Welcome! At Bleakley Counseling LLC, we know that reaching out for help from someone you have never met can seem stressful and overwhelming. We will try our best to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible. With 15 years of experience, Tara Lemon Bleakley MA, LPC currently practices general counseling with a focus in the following areas: behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, stress, problems with self-esteem, relationship problems, transitioning problems, parenting, step parenting, divorce, blended family issues, marital issues, trauma related issues, pregnancy issues, infertility and oppositional defiant disorder.
(985) 306-9236 View (985) 306-9236
Photo of Donald Waterman, PhD, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donald Waterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
Dr. Waterman's goal is to provide you, your spouse/significant other, child and/or your family with the highest quality service focused on assisting you achieve your goals in therapy and in life. Dr. Waterman will work with you in a way that builds on your strengths and potential, and challenges you to take your life/relationship to the next level. He believes the most productive therapy environment is one of mutual trust, respect, and collaboration. His approach is challenging, yet compassionate and caring. Dr. Waterman's treatment approaches are based on sound scientific models of human behavior and established methods of psychotherapy.
Dr. Waterman's goal is to provide you, your spouse/significant other, child and/or your family with the highest quality service focused on assisting you achieve your goals in therapy and in life. Dr. Waterman will work with you in a way that builds on your strengths and potential, and challenges you to take your life/relationship to the next level. He believes the most productive therapy environment is one of mutual trust, respect, and collaboration. His approach is challenging, yet compassionate and caring. Dr. Waterman's treatment approaches are based on sound scientific models of human behavior and established methods of psychotherapy.
(985) 241-6744 View (985) 241-6744
Photo of Craig A Pierce Jr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Craig A Pierce Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
I want to help you figure out now that PEACE HAPPENS INSIDE OUT. Lets make RIGHT NOW the best it can be, regarding our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. We have the power within to stand up and push through the most adverse situations but occasionally lose our balance and fall down. My goal is to help you figure out how to get back up and continue the journey of life by learning from the past, and planning and preparing for the future, but really living in the present, as the gift that it is.
I want to help you figure out now that PEACE HAPPENS INSIDE OUT. Lets make RIGHT NOW the best it can be, regarding our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. We have the power within to stand up and push through the most adverse situations but occasionally lose our balance and fall down. My goal is to help you figure out how to get back up and continue the journey of life by learning from the past, and planning and preparing for the future, but really living in the present, as the gift that it is.
(985) 276-0915 View (985) 276-0915
Photo of Denyse E. Fegan, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denyse E. Fegan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
I have worked in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings with adolescents, adults, and elders in individual, family, couples, and group treatment dealing with a wide range of therapeutic issues. However, I believe my most important qualification is a compassionate heart for helping people heal brokenness in their lives, make lasting changes, and live freely. My approach to counseling recognizes a person's spirituality as the central organizing principal around which lasting mental health and strong relationships may be achieved. Please don't hesitate to call today to make an appointment.
I have worked in inpatient and outpatient clinical settings with adolescents, adults, and elders in individual, family, couples, and group treatment dealing with a wide range of therapeutic issues. However, I believe my most important qualification is a compassionate heart for helping people heal brokenness in their lives, make lasting changes, and live freely. My approach to counseling recognizes a person's spirituality as the central organizing principal around which lasting mental health and strong relationships may be achieved. Please don't hesitate to call today to make an appointment.
(985) 200-2340 View (985) 200-2340
Photo of Dr. Robert Gardner, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Robert Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
My approach to therapy is to keep the process straightforward so that my clients can experience positive change as quickly as possible. My use of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) blended with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and meditative practice provides clients with a solid foundation to achieve personal growth. My goal is to help my clients realize their best self and develop the skills necessary to live a rich, full, and meaningful life.
My approach to therapy is to keep the process straightforward so that my clients can experience positive change as quickly as possible. My use of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) blended with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and meditative practice provides clients with a solid foundation to achieve personal growth. My goal is to help my clients realize their best self and develop the skills necessary to live a rich, full, and meaningful life.
(985) 231-2221 View (985) 231-2221
Photo of Rebecca Deano, LPC, C-IAYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Deano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
For me, yoga and psychotherapy both offer opportunities for healing. Traditional therapy works primarily through the mind. However, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. are not only in the mind. The tools of yoga provide an avenue to address imbalances in the human system; body, physiology, mind, and emotions. Incorporating tools such as movement, breath, mindfulness, sound and meditation possibly can provide opportunities to reduce suffering, as well as enhance overall wellness. Most schools of psychotherapy only recently have begun recognizing the benefit of these tools which can work on deeper levels of the human system.
For me, yoga and psychotherapy both offer opportunities for healing. Traditional therapy works primarily through the mind. However, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. are not only in the mind. The tools of yoga provide an avenue to address imbalances in the human system; body, physiology, mind, and emotions. Incorporating tools such as movement, breath, mindfulness, sound and meditation possibly can provide opportunities to reduce suffering, as well as enhance overall wellness. Most schools of psychotherapy only recently have begun recognizing the benefit of these tools which can work on deeper levels of the human system.
(504) 434-4848 View (504) 434-4848
Photo of Carolyn Burns - Carolyn Burns, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Burns, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
Couples face a wide range of challenges in their relationships. I am here to work with you to build a more secure, intimate relationship that supports your emotional, sexual and spiritual connection. I provide groups/retreats for couples as an accelerated "learning lab" for healing through-out the year. Click the Group page to see my next group. I work, as well, with individuals ages 16 and older with issues from various traumas related to grief, anxiety and depression, and coping with adjustment to life circumstances.
Couples face a wide range of challenges in their relationships. I am here to work with you to build a more secure, intimate relationship that supports your emotional, sexual and spiritual connection. I provide groups/retreats for couples as an accelerated "learning lab" for healing through-out the year. Click the Group page to see my next group. I work, as well, with individuals ages 16 and older with issues from various traumas related to grief, anxiety and depression, and coping with adjustment to life circumstances.
(985) 224-4024 View (985) 224-4024
Photo of Riva Cornelius, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Riva Cornelius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
"The journey of a thousand miles starts from beneath your feet." (Lao Tzu ). Welcome to your first step in moving from stillness to action. Meet Riva, a licensed psychotherapist, who strives to create an authentic and supportive therapy experience for individuals from older adolescents to adults. Riva is wholeheartedly committed to supporting individuals in writing the next phase of their life’s story, in a way in which they are proud of.
"The journey of a thousand miles starts from beneath your feet." (Lao Tzu ). Welcome to your first step in moving from stillness to action. Meet Riva, a licensed psychotherapist, who strives to create an authentic and supportive therapy experience for individuals from older adolescents to adults. Riva is wholeheartedly committed to supporting individuals in writing the next phase of their life’s story, in a way in which they are proud of.
(228) 432-4057 View (228) 432-4057
Photo of Nyla H. Gutekunst, MA, LPC, CCPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nyla H. Gutekunst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPT
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
Some issues in life become struggles that seem to overwhelm us. Day to day activities and responsibilities become so much harder and tiring. But there is hope! I work with people who are struggling with many different types of issues including: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Abuse, Grief, Relationship issues, Adjustment issues, Co-dependency, Parenting, and Marriage. Talking through the struggles helps to bring clarity on how to resolve the struggles. As a Christian counselor, I believe that you are loved and valued by God and that there are healthy solutions.
Some issues in life become struggles that seem to overwhelm us. Day to day activities and responsibilities become so much harder and tiring. But there is hope! I work with people who are struggling with many different types of issues including: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Abuse, Grief, Relationship issues, Adjustment issues, Co-dependency, Parenting, and Marriage. Talking through the struggles helps to bring clarity on how to resolve the struggles. As a Christian counselor, I believe that you are loved and valued by God and that there are healthy solutions.
(985) 236-0647 View (985) 236-0647
Photo of Amy Ettinger, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Ettinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
Are you looking to get “unstuck"? If you want to handle stress with more confidence, feel more comfortable in your own skin, improve relationships that matter to you & get past negative experiences, I'm ready to help you! I'm clinically trained in psychotherapy that supports the client-therapist partnership, celebrates your innate ability to heal & provides outstanding results in less time than traditional talk therapy.
Are you looking to get “unstuck"? If you want to handle stress with more confidence, feel more comfortable in your own skin, improve relationships that matter to you & get past negative experiences, I'm ready to help you! I'm clinically trained in psychotherapy that supports the client-therapist partnership, celebrates your innate ability to heal & provides outstanding results in less time than traditional talk therapy.
(985) 202-9205 View (985) 202-9205
Photo of Macie Weaver, MA, PLPC
Macie Weaver
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
As a therapist who works with children, teens, adults and couples, my goal is to provide a safe and compassionate space for my clients to unfold while processing the intricate parts of their story. I am passionate about supporting the mental well being across generations. I understand that seeking therapy can be intimidating and my hope is to create a space that feels comfortable and welcoming for all of my clients.
As a therapist who works with children, teens, adults and couples, my goal is to provide a safe and compassionate space for my clients to unfold while processing the intricate parts of their story. I am passionate about supporting the mental well being across generations. I understand that seeking therapy can be intimidating and my hope is to create a space that feels comfortable and welcoming for all of my clients.
(504) 264-2261 View (504) 264-2261
Photo of Laura Squires, MS, LPC, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Squires
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
Have you felt lost, stuck, or just need to understand situations? Healing Paths and Wellness believes in a holistic approach to individual and family counseling and healing. We offer an integrative approach to guiding individuals and families toward emotional well-being, restoring relationships, personal growth, and healing from trauma. We serve children, adults, families, and couples through a trauma-informed, individualized approach. We assist clients through personal conflicts and stressors, improve relationships, and heal emotional wounds. We personalize our counseling approach to suit your specific needs and goals.
Have you felt lost, stuck, or just need to understand situations? Healing Paths and Wellness believes in a holistic approach to individual and family counseling and healing. We offer an integrative approach to guiding individuals and families toward emotional well-being, restoring relationships, personal growth, and healing from trauma. We serve children, adults, families, and couples through a trauma-informed, individualized approach. We assist clients through personal conflicts and stressors, improve relationships, and heal emotional wounds. We personalize our counseling approach to suit your specific needs and goals.
(985) 602-2388 View (985) 602-2388
Photo of Bruce Steinberg, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bruce Steinberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. You have made the first step in what will hopefully be a productive and exciting journey into change for the better. For the past 15 years, I have helped many clients make incredible transformation in their lives, and it has been a joyful experience for me to be a part of that change.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. You have made the first step in what will hopefully be a productive and exciting journey into change for the better. For the past 15 years, I have helped many clients make incredible transformation in their lives, and it has been a joyful experience for me to be a part of that change.
(985) 336-5012 View (985) 336-5012
Photo of Marisa Claire Durand, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marisa Claire Durand
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, LA 70447
"You do not find a happy life, you make it!" - Camilla Kimball. I began counseling to battle the common belief that we are powerless in controlling our thoughts and feelings. Individuals of any age can regain this power and make a change within their lives. You might wish to be less anxious in social situations or create more meaningful relationships. Maybe you are replaying awkward moments over and over whilst trying to fall asleep, wishing things were different. "If only I was ......, I would be ok?" I want to learn your story, without judgment.
"You do not find a happy life, you make it!" - Camilla Kimball. I began counseling to battle the common belief that we are powerless in controlling our thoughts and feelings. Individuals of any age can regain this power and make a change within their lives. You might wish to be less anxious in social situations or create more meaningful relationships. Maybe you are replaying awkward moments over and over whilst trying to fall asleep, wishing things were different. "If only I was ......, I would be ok?" I want to learn your story, without judgment.
(985) 589-6096 View (985) 589-6096
Photo of Sarah Probst - Pneuma Counseling, EMDR & Neurofeedback, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pneuma Counseling, EMDR & Neurofeedback
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Madisonville, LA 70447
Over the past ten years as a trauma therapist, I’ve journeyed with clients through unspeakable and complex traumas as well as those facing difficult situations. I understand how overwhelming it can be, and I'm here to offer hope and healing. By combining the latest advances in mental health with my faith in God, I believe we can achieve remarkable results. Science and faith together provide powerful tools like EMDR and Neurofeedback to heal mental anguish. Life is challenging, but we live in a time of incredible advances that can help you restructure your brain, body, and spirit. Check for availability or join my waitlist..
Over the past ten years as a trauma therapist, I’ve journeyed with clients through unspeakable and complex traumas as well as those facing difficult situations. I understand how overwhelming it can be, and I'm here to offer hope and healing. By combining the latest advances in mental health with my faith in God, I believe we can achieve remarkable results. Science and faith together provide powerful tools like EMDR and Neurofeedback to heal mental anguish. Life is challenging, but we live in a time of incredible advances that can help you restructure your brain, body, and spirit. Check for availability or join my waitlist..
(985) 298-8771 View (985) 298-8771
1

See more therapy options for Madisonville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Madisonville, LA

30+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Madisonville, LA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Relationship Issues
90% Depression
84% Self Esteem
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Coping Skills
74% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Madisonville, LA see their clients

94% In Person and Online
6% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Madisonville?

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.