Therapists in Opelousas, LA

Photo of Brad L Sibille, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Brad L Sibille
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Opelousas, LA 70570
In over twenty years as I counselor I have seen with both young and old overcome the inner struggles that have held them back in life. I work with children and teens so that they can find success at home, school, and in life and help them with behavioral problems and struggles to make friends and socialize. I also provide therapy to both teens and adults struggling with anxiety issues, depression, stress, anger, addiction, and chemical dependency to help them find the freedom they seek. I use a combination of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Play Therapy which I adapt to the needs and preferences of the client.
In over twenty years as I counselor I have seen with both young and old overcome the inner struggles that have held them back in life. I work with children and teens so that they can find success at home, school, and in life and help them with behavioral problems and struggles to make friends and socialize. I also provide therapy to both teens and adults struggling with anxiety issues, depression, stress, anger, addiction, and chemical dependency to help them find the freedom they seek. I use a combination of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Play Therapy which I adapt to the needs and preferences of the client.
(337) 514-4928 View (337) 514-4928
Photo of Alicia R Reed, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Alicia R Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Opelousas, LA 70570
The first sign of a serious struggle is often the condition of our relationships with others. Becoming reactive in an automatic, negative way can lead to shame and broken bonds with friends, family, and co-workers. "Why am I like this," you may ask. Loneliness, depression and social anxiety? Maybe we feel misunderstood by what we can't find words for. "But I had a great childhood," you may say. Unintentional wounds can be caused by good people in bad situations, and you may have unexplored pain to heal. Family alcoholism, abuse, ADHD, and trauma can further complicate the lives of adolescents and adults alike damaging self-esteem.
The first sign of a serious struggle is often the condition of our relationships with others. Becoming reactive in an automatic, negative way can lead to shame and broken bonds with friends, family, and co-workers. "Why am I like this," you may ask. Loneliness, depression and social anxiety? Maybe we feel misunderstood by what we can't find words for. "But I had a great childhood," you may say. Unintentional wounds can be caused by good people in bad situations, and you may have unexplored pain to heal. Family alcoholism, abuse, ADHD, and trauma can further complicate the lives of adolescents and adults alike damaging self-esteem.
(337) 326-4534 View (337) 326-4534
Photo of Sianna Nacoste-Caldwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Sianna Nacoste-Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have been a board-certified social worker for over 10 years. I enjoy working with preteens, teens, families, and adults. My treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practices that focus on the mind-body connection. I have extensive experience with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and more.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have been a board-certified social worker for over 10 years. I enjoy working with preteens, teens, families, and adults. My treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practices that focus on the mind-body connection. I have extensive experience with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and more.
(337) 227-9620 View (337) 227-9620
Photo of Courtney Sandoz Copell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Courtney Sandoz Copell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Opelousas, LA 70570
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Courtney Copell, founder of Compass Counseling Services of South Louisiana. It is my mission to provide the best and most thorough care to my clients and their families. I work from an integrated perspective which includes a wide-range of evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I founded my practice on the belief that each client is unique and deserves comprehensive and individualized care. I believe that in order to experience optimal health, every component of the individual must be considered. Therefore, I operate from a holistic and client-centered approach where each client will have their own personalized program.
I'm Courtney Copell, founder of Compass Counseling Services of South Louisiana. It is my mission to provide the best and most thorough care to my clients and their families. I work from an integrated perspective which includes a wide-range of evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I founded my practice on the belief that each client is unique and deserves comprehensive and individualized care. I believe that in order to experience optimal health, every component of the individual must be considered. Therefore, I operate from a holistic and client-centered approach where each client will have their own personalized program.
(337) 376-0215 View (337) 376-0215
Photo of Sherell Hebert - Headway Provider, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Headway Provider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life is a field of unlimited possibilities. Are you ready to begin exploring? I believe we are all here to help one another learn and grow. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in anxiety disorders because this is an area that I know intimately. I once had really bad anxiety and panics attacks. I learned to overcome them and they are now a distant memory. I would like to show you how this can be true for you as well. I offer flexible scheduling with options that include evenings and weekends for my DC clients. Go to the scheduling link to get started.
Life is a field of unlimited possibilities. Are you ready to begin exploring? I believe we are all here to help one another learn and grow. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in anxiety disorders because this is an area that I know intimately. I once had really bad anxiety and panics attacks. I learned to overcome them and they are now a distant memory. I would like to show you how this can be true for you as well. I offer flexible scheduling with options that include evenings and weekends for my DC clients. Go to the scheduling link to get started.
(281) 666-2278 View (281) 666-2278
Photo of Kathy Manuel - Embrace Life Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CART
Embrace Life Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CART
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kathy Manuel is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the treatment of mental health for 16 years. In a safe, therapeutic environment, she encourages and guides clients to achieve success using professional, sought after effective treatment modalities. She believes counseling is valuable when it is personalized to the individual's goals and is genuinely attentive to understanding her client's specific needs and desires.
Kathy Manuel is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the treatment of mental health for 16 years. In a safe, therapeutic environment, she encourages and guides clients to achieve success using professional, sought after effective treatment modalities. She believes counseling is valuable when it is personalized to the individual's goals and is genuinely attentive to understanding her client's specific needs and desires.
(281) 401-9902 View (281) 401-9902
Photo of Leon C Winters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Leon C Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
While I am not accepting new clients, we have a team of therapists available to assist you. Please check out my connections listed below or visit our website for further information. Do you feel stuck? Are you having difficulties with your child? Do you consistently feel sad and do not know why? You are not alone. As your therapist we can work through those issues and get you on the road to leading a healthier life. Contact me now to start your road to recovery. Please note that telehealth is available.
While I am not accepting new clients, we have a team of therapists available to assist you. Please check out my connections listed below or visit our website for further information. Do you feel stuck? Are you having difficulties with your child? Do you consistently feel sad and do not know why? You are not alone. As your therapist we can work through those issues and get you on the road to leading a healthier life. Contact me now to start your road to recovery. Please note that telehealth is available.
(337) 504-7278 View (337) 504-7278
Photo of Kate Z. Doucet, MEd, MS, LPC
Kate Z. Doucet
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When you work hard in therapy and are compliant with medications, yet are still saddled with more anxiety, depression and difficulties making life work than you wish you had.....
When you work hard in therapy and are compliant with medications, yet are still saddled with more anxiety, depression and difficulties making life work than you wish you had.....
(337) 706-9825 View (337) 706-9825
Photo of Jennifer A Glasscock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer A Glasscock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Are you looking for effective professional mental health counseling you can trust and know will be guided from where you are to where you are hoping to find yourself? Be assured, we can help! Our therapists help make sense of where you are and how you arrived there. We'll journey together toward finding hope and healing so that you can live a healthy, content, and meaningful life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, anger, PTSD, spiritual matters, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marriage conflicts, addiction, or repeating the same behavioral patterns of self-destruction, there is HOPE for living healed.
Are you looking for effective professional mental health counseling you can trust and know will be guided from where you are to where you are hoping to find yourself? Be assured, we can help! Our therapists help make sense of where you are and how you arrived there. We'll journey together toward finding hope and healing so that you can live a healthy, content, and meaningful life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, anger, PTSD, spiritual matters, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marriage conflicts, addiction, or repeating the same behavioral patterns of self-destruction, there is HOPE for living healed.
(337) 347-8641 View (337) 347-8641
Photo of Aimee LeJeune Scelfo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Aimee LeJeune Scelfo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
If going to therapy is somewhat fearful, you are not alone. Most people do not know what to expect. Scientific research shows that psychotherapy works. Therapy can help you feel more comfortable being the real you. The goal of psychotherapy is not to change you. Change is your choice. It is to help build self-awareness, increase compassion, understanding, respect, empathy and acceptance toward yourself and others.
If going to therapy is somewhat fearful, you are not alone. Most people do not know what to expect. Scientific research shows that psychotherapy works. Therapy can help you feel more comfortable being the real you. The goal of psychotherapy is not to change you. Change is your choice. It is to help build self-awareness, increase compassion, understanding, respect, empathy and acceptance toward yourself and others.
(337) 467-7132 View (337) 467-7132
Photo of Jamye Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Jamye Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you ever thought that life is too tough? Have you lost someone or something very close to you recently? Do you currently struggle to see yourself in a positive way, and it is hard to maintain healthy relationships in your life whether it romantic or familial because of it? Well, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, wanting and waiting to help you. Everyone feels sad, lost, confused, hurt, or angry at times. Sometimes, those feelings can come from not feeling accepted or trauma from the past. Let's work together to help heal what those issues. You are strong for making the first step and reaching out for help.
Have you ever thought that life is too tough? Have you lost someone or something very close to you recently? Do you currently struggle to see yourself in a positive way, and it is hard to maintain healthy relationships in your life whether it romantic or familial because of it? Well, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, wanting and waiting to help you. Everyone feels sad, lost, confused, hurt, or angry at times. Sometimes, those feelings can come from not feeling accepted or trauma from the past. Let's work together to help heal what those issues. You are strong for making the first step and reaching out for help.
(337) 267-8837 View (337) 267-8837
Photo of Kristi Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kristi Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
You are worthy of an unbiased, safe and productive space to share and process your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. You have taken the first step in your journey by visiting this page and I would be honored to work alongside of you in your journey to recovery, peace, hope and balance in order to thrive. I have had the honor to work with children, couples, individuals, veterans, first responders, law enforcement, neurodivergent, LGBTQ who are experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, grief, divorce, life transitions and more throughout my years of practice as a licensed professional counselor.
You are worthy of an unbiased, safe and productive space to share and process your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. You have taken the first step in your journey by visiting this page and I would be honored to work alongside of you in your journey to recovery, peace, hope and balance in order to thrive. I have had the honor to work with children, couples, individuals, veterans, first responders, law enforcement, neurodivergent, LGBTQ who are experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, grief, divorce, life transitions and more throughout my years of practice as a licensed professional counselor.
(337) 510-5235 View (337) 510-5235
Photo of Mary F Huval, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Mary F Huval
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy to clients in the office as well as through Telehealth Services. I work from the belief that the human body and mind work together and constantly strive to find an inner peace and balance through self-healing. My role as a counselor is to help you create self-awareness, to facilitate the healing process, and to support you on your journey to finding your inner peace and life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults, addressing a wide range of challenges. My approach to counseling is holistic, trauma-focused, and strength-based. I utilize traditional modalities of therapy with clients as well as EMDR and IMTT.
I provide therapy to clients in the office as well as through Telehealth Services. I work from the belief that the human body and mind work together and constantly strive to find an inner peace and balance through self-healing. My role as a counselor is to help you create self-awareness, to facilitate the healing process, and to support you on your journey to finding your inner peace and life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults, addressing a wide range of challenges. My approach to counseling is holistic, trauma-focused, and strength-based. I utilize traditional modalities of therapy with clients as well as EMDR and IMTT.
(337) 324-9612 View (337) 324-9612
Photo of Dr. Kerri Prejean - Haven Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, RPT, LPC-S, NCC
Dr. Kerri Prejean - Haven Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, RPT, LPC-S, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Worried about your child? Seeking help is the first courageous step as a caregiver! Assisting youth in navigating issues and witnessing them find their voice and unique gifts is the most rewarding part of my career. Anxiety, aggression, sadness, negative self views, unhealthy relationships, and living in a complex world are all experiences that can hinder your child from being their best self. I have worked with youth for over 23 years and remain amazed at their wonder and resiliency. I strive to create a safe and caring environment where your child can express themselves freely - allowing them to feel heard, valued, and understood.
Worried about your child? Seeking help is the first courageous step as a caregiver! Assisting youth in navigating issues and witnessing them find their voice and unique gifts is the most rewarding part of my career. Anxiety, aggression, sadness, negative self views, unhealthy relationships, and living in a complex world are all experiences that can hinder your child from being their best self. I have worked with youth for over 23 years and remain amazed at their wonder and resiliency. I strive to create a safe and caring environment where your child can express themselves freely - allowing them to feel heard, valued, and understood.
(337) 427-8576 View (337) 427-8576
Photo of Alan D. Zaunbrecher, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Alan D. Zaunbrecher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
What do you desire most? Many people are searching for peace and contentment, but finding that in today's world can be difficult. Having received specialized training in improving emotional connections, coupled with 17 years of counseling experience, has given me the skills necessary for helping people find the enjoyment of life they have been seeking.
What do you desire most? Many people are searching for peace and contentment, but finding that in today's world can be difficult. Having received specialized training in improving emotional connections, coupled with 17 years of counseling experience, has given me the skills necessary for helping people find the enjoyment of life they have been seeking.
(337) 243-1205 View (337) 243-1205
Photo of Merril Thibodeaux, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, CCS
Merril Thibodeaux
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, CCS
Serves Area
Life can be fun again! With support, understanding, education, and sometimes proper medication, you can turn your life around. If you find you're feeling bored, unmotivated, or you're having problems with focus and concentration; maybe you are easily frustrated and irritable, feeling lonely. Or maybe you find yourself lying and feeling guilty and remorseful, but repeating this behavior anyway. You're losing sight of who you really are! Are you using too much Alcohol and/or drugs to cope and can't quit? These are some of the symptoms of the disease of Addiction...and there is hope!
Life can be fun again! With support, understanding, education, and sometimes proper medication, you can turn your life around. If you find you're feeling bored, unmotivated, or you're having problems with focus and concentration; maybe you are easily frustrated and irritable, feeling lonely. Or maybe you find yourself lying and feeling guilty and remorseful, but repeating this behavior anyway. You're losing sight of who you really are! Are you using too much Alcohol and/or drugs to cope and can't quit? These are some of the symptoms of the disease of Addiction...and there is hope!
(337) 419-3546 View (337) 419-3546
Photo of Hollie B French, Art Therapist, LPC, ATR
Hollie B French
Art Therapist, LPC, ATR
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you function fairly well in most ways, but have some nagging issues (i.e. you struggle to trust, have a history of unhealthy or unsatisfying intimate relationships, trouble concentrating) that may be the result of past trauma? Do you want ways to process and heal that don't have to involve talking about the specifics of what happened to you? Do you have a child who needs some extra support navigating life changes (i.e. parents separated/divorced, school changes, moving homes, loss of loved one)? I have tools to address a number of issues that get in the way of better functioning and a more satisfying life.
Do you function fairly well in most ways, but have some nagging issues (i.e. you struggle to trust, have a history of unhealthy or unsatisfying intimate relationships, trouble concentrating) that may be the result of past trauma? Do you want ways to process and heal that don't have to involve talking about the specifics of what happened to you? Do you have a child who needs some extra support navigating life changes (i.e. parents separated/divorced, school changes, moving homes, loss of loved one)? I have tools to address a number of issues that get in the way of better functioning and a more satisfying life.
(337) 376-0776 View (337) 376-0776
Photo of Shantele H. Ledoux, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Shantele H. Ledoux
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and am dedicated to providing a safe, relaxing environment for you to express and explore issues/concerns. I enjoy working alongside others to reach their goals and believe in an individual's capacity for self growth and wellness. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, using a variety of modalities. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and am dedicated to providing a safe, relaxing environment for you to express and explore issues/concerns. I enjoy working alongside others to reach their goals and believe in an individual's capacity for self growth and wellness. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, using a variety of modalities. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(337) 284-4026 View (337) 284-4026
Photo of Martin Joseph Richard, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Martin Joseph Richard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Therapy can feel vulnerable and scary. I get that. My focus is on creating a safe space where you can take a break from shame and guilt and work towards effective, lasting changes that you create. You have value and potential, regardless of what situation you find yourself in currently.
Therapy can feel vulnerable and scary. I get that. My focus is on creating a safe space where you can take a break from shame and guilt and work towards effective, lasting changes that you create. You have value and potential, regardless of what situation you find yourself in currently.
(337) 454-5745 View (337) 454-5745
Photo of Crystal Gallagher, Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, PLMFT, PLPC
Crystal Gallagher
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, PLMFT, PLPC
Online Only
I’m not the kind of therapist who just nods and agrees. I’m here to be real—with honesty, care, and a steady presence. I’ll support you with warmth, ask thoughtful questions, and gently challenge the places where you’re stuck. I won’t give you advice—but I’ll help you understand yourself more deeply and move forward with intention. You might be high-functioning on the outside but overwhelmed inside. Maybe you’re burned out from overgiving in relationships or work. Maybe you’re going through a transition that’s stirred up more than you expected. Either way, just coping isn't ideal; you want clarity, insight, and change that lasts.
I’m not the kind of therapist who just nods and agrees. I’m here to be real—with honesty, care, and a steady presence. I’ll support you with warmth, ask thoughtful questions, and gently challenge the places where you’re stuck. I won’t give you advice—but I’ll help you understand yourself more deeply and move forward with intention. You might be high-functioning on the outside but overwhelmed inside. Maybe you’re burned out from overgiving in relationships or work. Maybe you’re going through a transition that’s stirred up more than you expected. Either way, just coping isn't ideal; you want clarity, insight, and change that lasts.
(318) 827-3380 View (318) 827-3380

See more therapy options for Opelousas

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Opelousas, LA

20+

Average cost per session

$112

Therapists in Opelousas, LA who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
90% Coping Skills
85% Depression
85% Self Esteem
80% Stress
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% Aetna

How Therapists in Opelousas, LA see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Opelousas?

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.