Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Abby Zou, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Abby Zou
Licensed Professional Counselor, BE, MDes, MCS, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I enter counseling because I have grown up with some trauma and walked through healing myself. Also, I have been serving college students at a nonprofit organization for 10 years, some of them are struggling mental health issues. I understand how life can be hard, overwhelming, and out of control sometimes. But never give up, there is always hope! If you are in difficult situations, I am compassionate and passionate for you to find a safe place to rest, be listened, get healed, find your purpose, and live a thriving life.
I enter counseling because I have grown up with some trauma and walked through healing myself. Also, I have been serving college students at a nonprofit organization for 10 years, some of them are struggling mental health issues. I understand how life can be hard, overwhelming, and out of control sometimes. But never give up, there is always hope! If you are in difficult situations, I am compassionate and passionate for you to find a safe place to rest, be listened, get healed, find your purpose, and live a thriving life.
(380) 333-4500 x718 View (380) 333-4500 x718
Photo of Elizabeth M. Miller, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Elizabeth M. Miller, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
(614) 383-9437 x202 View (614) 383-9437 x202
Photo of Melanie Thornburgh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Melanie Thornburgh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed or just feeling stuck, you do not have to go through it alone. I can help you overcome challenges, fears and negative thought patterns preventing you from becoming your best self. I have 14 years experience working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed or just feeling stuck, you do not have to go through it alone. I can help you overcome challenges, fears and negative thought patterns preventing you from becoming your best self. I have 14 years experience working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse and domestic violence.
(614) 350-3166 View (614) 350-3166
Photo of Patricia Ringold, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Patricia Ringold
Counselor, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
(614) 957-2845 View (614) 957-2845
Photo of Roy McClelland Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Roy McClelland Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
(380) 201-9508 View (380) 201-9508
Photo of Tracy Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tracy Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW, LICDC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I assist clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression and want to bring about change in their lives. I help clients who want to find a balance and stability within themselves to learn and reconnect to a more desired life.
I assist clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression and want to bring about change in their lives. I help clients who want to find a balance and stability within themselves to learn and reconnect to a more desired life.
(380) 600-8524 View (380) 600-8524
Photo of Harrison Steedman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Harrison Steedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Harrison Steedman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Master of Science in Education, Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Dayton. Matthew is passionate about instilling hope through equipping people with a sense of identity, purpose, and practical coping skills and applications. Moreover, he aims to prioritize listening to and understanding of client's stories as well as creating a safe relationship with the client. Matthew's theoretical framework is Existential Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Rogerian Therapy.
Harrison Steedman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. He has a Master of Science in Education, Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Dayton. Matthew is passionate about instilling hope through equipping people with a sense of identity, purpose, and practical coping skills and applications. Moreover, he aims to prioritize listening to and understanding of client's stories as well as creating a safe relationship with the client. Matthew's theoretical framework is Existential Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Rogerian Therapy.
(380) 210-4396 View (380) 210-4396
Photo of Melanie Bergsten, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Melanie Bergsten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Not accepting new clients
Life can be challenging and we all need a place where we can be seen, heard and understood without judgement. You may feel stuck as a result of depression or anxiety or you may want to grow, change or feel more confident and connected to others. I have a passion for helping others as they navigate their unique life path and encounter a variety of life stressors.
Life can be challenging and we all need a place where we can be seen, heard and understood without judgement. You may feel stuck as a result of depression or anxiety or you may want to grow, change or feel more confident and connected to others. I have a passion for helping others as they navigate their unique life path and encounter a variety of life stressors.
(740) 245-3669 View (740) 245-3669
Photo of Dr. Henry Stringer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Henry Stringer
Counselor, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
(614) 654-5912 View (614) 654-5912
Photo of Dr. Marcy Lusk, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Dr. Marcy Lusk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Accepting new clients. So often, we wear masks for the benefit of those around us while inside, we suffer. I want to normalize that even though you've been through a lot, there's hope that things can improve. If you want a therapist who takes a non-judgmental stand to support you and guide you through your problems, let me help you. I identify with a culturally sensitive approach because vulnerability is difficult for anyone, and having someone who understands you can help.
Accepting new clients. So often, we wear masks for the benefit of those around us while inside, we suffer. I want to normalize that even though you've been through a lot, there's hope that things can improve. If you want a therapist who takes a non-judgmental stand to support you and guide you through your problems, let me help you. I identify with a culturally sensitive approach because vulnerability is difficult for anyone, and having someone who understands you can help.
(614) 656-3832 View (614) 656-3832
Photo of Clara Ann Huffman, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Clara Ann Huffman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
(614) 881-4729 View (614) 881-4729
Photo of Dawn M Puster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Dawn M Puster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
(380) 201-9110 View (380) 201-9110
Photo of Queen Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Queen Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
(614) 762-9107 View (614) 762-9107
Photo of Michael D Perciful, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Michael D Perciful
Counselor, MACM, LPCC-S, LCDCIII, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
(614) 745-8531 View (614) 745-8531
Photo of Lindsay Gifford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lindsay Gifford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I recently graduated with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary and I am currently under the supervision of Sharon Williston-Benadum, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, SAP. I want my clients to know the joy that comes from living out of freedom from their mental health issues. I believe it is an honor to walk with clients through their struggles in life and desire for them to feel seen, known, and safe in our time together. I view the relationship with my clients as the most important aspect of our work together.
I recently graduated with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary and I am currently under the supervision of Sharon Williston-Benadum, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, SAP. I want my clients to know the joy that comes from living out of freedom from their mental health issues. I believe it is an honor to walk with clients through their struggles in life and desire for them to feel seen, known, and safe in our time together. I view the relationship with my clients as the most important aspect of our work together.
(614) 714-6249 x715 View (614) 714-6249 x715
Photo of Ellen Papadeas, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Ellen Papadeas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
(380) 333-6794 View (380) 333-6794
Photo of Macey Hawout, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Macey Hawout
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you a young adult woman experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and even trauma? Self-discovery and creating/finding identity are goals I work best with. In my most recent job, I have found that domestic violence survivors and women who experience issues specific to being a woman have piqued my interest. As a therapist, the most rewarding thing is to guide women toward embracing themselves for who they are, heal past wounds, and empower them to live fully and authentically. I believe I have been given a purpose in this world to serve others, and that's what I was created to do.
Are you a young adult woman experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and even trauma? Self-discovery and creating/finding identity are goals I work best with. In my most recent job, I have found that domestic violence survivors and women who experience issues specific to being a woman have piqued my interest. As a therapist, the most rewarding thing is to guide women toward embracing themselves for who they are, heal past wounds, and empower them to live fully and authentically. I believe I have been given a purpose in this world to serve others, and that's what I was created to do.
(380) 214-2821 View (380) 214-2821
Photo of Mary K Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mary K Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health counseling to address life issues of stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, work issues, relationships, sexual issues and family dynamic issues. I enjoy helping individuals learn new coping skills for depression and anxiety. I also specialize with individuals who have trauma and grief and will help you resolve those issues. I especially enjoy working with families and couples in learning how to resolve conflict and improve intimacy, communication and trust issues. My belief is that Life is a journey and at some point, we all need help.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health counseling to address life issues of stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, work issues, relationships, sexual issues and family dynamic issues. I enjoy helping individuals learn new coping skills for depression and anxiety. I also specialize with individuals who have trauma and grief and will help you resolve those issues. I especially enjoy working with families and couples in learning how to resolve conflict and improve intimacy, communication and trust issues. My belief is that Life is a journey and at some point, we all need help.
(614) 702-2581 View (614) 702-2581
Photo of Julia Dee in Westerville, OH
Julia Dee
LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
(937) 858-6433 View (937) 858-6433
Photo of Ethan Briggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Ethan Briggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
New Client Appointments Available! I find that I do my best work in helping clients learn real life, applicable skills to utilize on a daily basis. I enjoy incorporating humor in my sessions while also ensuring positive progress toward your goals. I am passionate about mental health education and helping people understand themselves better. I don't want therapy to feel stuffy. I hope you come as your authentic self and feel comfortable being who you are. I help with managing anxiety, LGBTQ+ concerns, and trauma, including those with religious trauma and those working on deconstruction of their previous faith beliefs.
New Client Appointments Available! I find that I do my best work in helping clients learn real life, applicable skills to utilize on a daily basis. I enjoy incorporating humor in my sessions while also ensuring positive progress toward your goals. I am passionate about mental health education and helping people understand themselves better. I don't want therapy to feel stuffy. I hope you come as your authentic self and feel comfortable being who you are. I help with managing anxiety, LGBTQ+ concerns, and trauma, including those with religious trauma and those working on deconstruction of their previous faith beliefs.
(614) 350-2139 View (614) 350-2139

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
89% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Self Esteem
66% Grief
66% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
77% Optum
69% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.