Therapists in Meridian, ID

Photo of Angie Sherwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Angie Sherwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CSTP
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Waitlist for new clients
Angie provides a safe, warm, and honest atmosphere while accompanying clients through their journey to reach their goals and create the life they have envisioned. Angie believes that each client presents with unique circumstances requiring unique approaches. As an Integrative Therapist, she offers a variety of therapeutic techniques designed to meet each client's needs. Angie's theoretical framework is a compilation of cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, Mindfulness, DBT and more. Angie has received training in treating eating disorders, trauma, a broad scope of mental health and addiction disorders and enjoys working with families, individuals, couples, and adolescents.
Angie provides a safe, warm, and honest atmosphere while accompanying clients through their journey to reach their goals and create the life they have envisioned. Angie believes that each client presents with unique circumstances requiring unique approaches. As an Integrative Therapist, she offers a variety of therapeutic techniques designed to meet each client's needs. Angie's theoretical framework is a compilation of cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, Mindfulness, DBT and more. Angie has received training in treating eating disorders, trauma, a broad scope of mental health and addiction disorders and enjoys working with families, individuals, couples, and adolescents.
(208) 647-0389 View (208) 647-0389
Photo of Megan Koehler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Megan Koehler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TCYM
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642  (Online Only)
I support female identifying and non binary clients who are wanting to navigate: Religious Trauma & Deconstruction. Healing from Purity Culture. Sex and Body Positivity. Anxiety. ADHD and Autism in women.
I support female identifying and non binary clients who are wanting to navigate: Religious Trauma & Deconstruction. Healing from Purity Culture. Sex and Body Positivity. Anxiety. ADHD and Autism in women.
(208) 314-1782 View (208) 314-1782
Photo of DragonFly Counseling PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
DragonFly Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
**Providing Services Strictly Telehealth. Please email for availability** Hello there! Making the decision to contact a counselor can be an intimidating and difficult step and here you ARE! My goal as a therapist include creating a safe space for you to be you without JUDGEMENT and to help you ease into the process of changing through providing support and encouragement. As we work together to build a personalized therapy plan, my hope is that you will gain a deeper understanding about you and find some practical skills/tools to use in the real world.
**Providing Services Strictly Telehealth. Please email for availability** Hello there! Making the decision to contact a counselor can be an intimidating and difficult step and here you ARE! My goal as a therapist include creating a safe space for you to be you without JUDGEMENT and to help you ease into the process of changing through providing support and encouragement. As we work together to build a personalized therapy plan, my hope is that you will gain a deeper understanding about you and find some practical skills/tools to use in the real world.
(208) 504-1360 View (208) 504-1360
Photo of Amelia Messenger-Grapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Amelia Messenger-Grapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I specialize in working with trauma, grief and loss, and attachment issues. I have experience working with adults, teens, and children who’ve experienced domestic and sexual violence, those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and folks who’ve struggled with addiction. Many of my clients work toward acknowledging and grieving the past so moving forward feels possible. I know counseling can be scary. This is why we move slowly and intentionally, making sure counseling doesn't just feel hard. There are moments of joy and celebration in healing too.
I specialize in working with trauma, grief and loss, and attachment issues. I have experience working with adults, teens, and children who’ve experienced domestic and sexual violence, those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and folks who’ve struggled with addiction. Many of my clients work toward acknowledging and grieving the past so moving forward feels possible. I know counseling can be scary. This is why we move slowly and intentionally, making sure counseling doesn't just feel hard. There are moments of joy and celebration in healing too.
(208) 314-0864 View (208) 314-0864
Photo of Jaclyn Hardy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Jaclyn Hardy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Waitlist for new clients
Individuals, couples, and families experience trauma, stressors, and circumstances outside their control throughout life. Such times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves and others. We are relational beings, wired for connection, yet sometimes we get caught in negative interaction cycles, often driven by the same unmet needs. I help couples uncover those underlying unmet needs, emotions, and perceptions and then facilitate a pattern of turning toward each other rather than away.
Individuals, couples, and families experience trauma, stressors, and circumstances outside their control throughout life. Such times can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves and others. We are relational beings, wired for connection, yet sometimes we get caught in negative interaction cycles, often driven by the same unmet needs. I help couples uncover those underlying unmet needs, emotions, and perceptions and then facilitate a pattern of turning toward each other rather than away.
(208) 795-3327 View (208) 795-3327
Photo of Neurofeedback And Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Neurofeedback And Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
I believe that everything we do in life comes from experiences that’ve shaped us.Depending on the intensity of the event & how our body perceives it, it’ll be logged into our nervous system as a safe or an unsafe experience.Our bodies at the basic level want to feel safe and will create behaviors (healthy/unhealthy) to protect us.For most, when we feel bad later about our behaviors, this means our body perceived the event as a threat.We’ll explore with a curious mindset why this is happening and boundaries that can be put in place.We will evaluate /decipher what coping skills/behaviors are harmful and re-program them in your body.
I believe that everything we do in life comes from experiences that’ve shaped us.Depending on the intensity of the event & how our body perceives it, it’ll be logged into our nervous system as a safe or an unsafe experience.Our bodies at the basic level want to feel safe and will create behaviors (healthy/unhealthy) to protect us.For most, when we feel bad later about our behaviors, this means our body perceived the event as a threat.We’ll explore with a curious mindset why this is happening and boundaries that can be put in place.We will evaluate /decipher what coping skills/behaviors are harmful and re-program them in your body.
(208) 904-1024 View (208) 904-1024
Photo of Soaring Heights Counseling, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Soaring Heights Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MRC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of counseling experience specializing in life adjustment and transition issues, grief and loss, divorce and relationships issues, work problems, and major acute life crises events. I prefer working short-term brief counseling utilizing your EAP benefits or private pay. I am passionate about my work as a counselor. I truly love being able to facilitate change in people's life through using my wealth of experience and training in a variety of evidenced-based counseling techniques.
I have over 20 years of counseling experience specializing in life adjustment and transition issues, grief and loss, divorce and relationships issues, work problems, and major acute life crises events. I prefer working short-term brief counseling utilizing your EAP benefits or private pay. I am passionate about my work as a counselor. I truly love being able to facilitate change in people's life through using my wealth of experience and training in a variety of evidenced-based counseling techniques.
(208) 401-8229 View (208) 401-8229
Photo of Joanne Burgio, Psychologist in Meridian, ID
Joanne Burgio
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
I am an seasoned psychologist who specializes in a thoughtful, in depth approach unique to each individual. My orientation is relational psychodynamic. However, I incorporate a variety of techniques depending on your needs. We will work together to help you understand yourself, your relationships and what is really going on inside of you. I focus the on the inner changes you need in order to resolve your issues. Expect fundamental personal change and growth. I have had my Ph.D. degree in Clinical Psychology since 1983. I work with individual adults and couples. I am licensed in Idaho and Minnesota. Minnesota is telehealth only.
I am an seasoned psychologist who specializes in a thoughtful, in depth approach unique to each individual. My orientation is relational psychodynamic. However, I incorporate a variety of techniques depending on your needs. We will work together to help you understand yourself, your relationships and what is really going on inside of you. I focus the on the inner changes you need in order to resolve your issues. Expect fundamental personal change and growth. I have had my Ph.D. degree in Clinical Psychology since 1983. I work with individual adults and couples. I am licensed in Idaho and Minnesota. Minnesota is telehealth only.
(208) 473-2261 View (208) 473-2261
Photo of Mathew T Heindel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Mathew T Heindel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I have worked as a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 20 years with adolescents and adults in private practice, community mental health and correctional settings. Over the years, my clientele have voiced appreciation for my style and approach when it comes to balancing therapy sessions with the perfect blend of humor, compassion and accountability. I specialize in working with troubled youth, sexual behavior problems, couples/family, and criminal behavior problems.
I have worked as a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 20 years with adolescents and adults in private practice, community mental health and correctional settings. Over the years, my clientele have voiced appreciation for my style and approach when it comes to balancing therapy sessions with the perfect blend of humor, compassion and accountability. I specialize in working with troubled youth, sexual behavior problems, couples/family, and criminal behavior problems.
(208) 219-5917 View (208) 219-5917
Photo of Matt Morrissette, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Matt Morrissette
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
With over 20-years of experience, every one of my clients can be sure that I give them my full attention and focus to helping them with effective therapeutic tools. From the very first session, you can be confident that you will be emotionally supported in our endeavor to design real solutions.
With over 20-years of experience, every one of my clients can be sure that I give them my full attention and focus to helping them with effective therapeutic tools. From the very first session, you can be confident that you will be emotionally supported in our endeavor to design real solutions.
(208) 402-6525 View (208) 402-6525
Photo of Melinda Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Melinda Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Life can be overwhelming and leave you feel worn out. When things seem dark and heavy, there is help and hope available, you are not alone. I use a trauma informed lens which means we look at how adverse experiences impacted you and how they show up in the here and now. I work with you to create a compassionate supportive place to process and build inner resources. Reaching out is evidence of inner strength and courage. I am honored to work alongside my clients as they heal and move towards their goals.
Life can be overwhelming and leave you feel worn out. When things seem dark and heavy, there is help and hope available, you are not alone. I use a trauma informed lens which means we look at how adverse experiences impacted you and how they show up in the here and now. I work with you to create a compassionate supportive place to process and build inner resources. Reaching out is evidence of inner strength and courage. I am honored to work alongside my clients as they heal and move towards their goals.
(208) 793-5643 View (208) 793-5643
Photo of Hannah Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Hannah Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
With my diverse background, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals through a multitude of life transitions, including divorce, loss, retirement, and career changes. Additionally, I find fulfillment in assisting children and adolescents facing behavioral challenges, academic obstacles, interpersonal conflicts, and various mental health concerns such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and trauma-related symptoms. Furthermore, I've thoroughly enjoyed working with individuals who are eager to embark on journeys of personal growth, self-exploration, and realizing their full potential through self-discovery, and goal setting.
With my diverse background, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals through a multitude of life transitions, including divorce, loss, retirement, and career changes. Additionally, I find fulfillment in assisting children and adolescents facing behavioral challenges, academic obstacles, interpersonal conflicts, and various mental health concerns such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and trauma-related symptoms. Furthermore, I've thoroughly enjoyed working with individuals who are eager to embark on journeys of personal growth, self-exploration, and realizing their full potential through self-discovery, and goal setting.
(986) 300-4320 View (986) 300-4320
Photo of Amy Tucker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Meridian, ID
Amy Tucker
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
I love working with adolescents and adults. My clinical emphasis is in grief, loss, and trauma. This includes helping you through the struggles of anxiety, depression, chronic illness, infertility, faith & life transitions, parenting struggles, and various forms of relational stress. I work to create a space where you will feel accepted, safe, and cared for, as you learn tools to promote greater flexibility and freedom to respond intentionally to the challenges you are facing.
I love working with adolescents and adults. My clinical emphasis is in grief, loss, and trauma. This includes helping you through the struggles of anxiety, depression, chronic illness, infertility, faith & life transitions, parenting struggles, and various forms of relational stress. I work to create a space where you will feel accepted, safe, and cared for, as you learn tools to promote greater flexibility and freedom to respond intentionally to the challenges you are facing.
(208) 428-6234 View (208) 428-6234
Photo of Kristin Fehrer, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Kristin Fehrer
Counselor, MEd, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
Counseling is a joint effort, which cannot be successful without your hard work, energy and courage. Regardless of the reasons you may be seeking counseling, I believe an enhanced sense of self understanding and acceptance is essential in all situations. Therapy provides a safe place to explore reactions, thoughts, and feelings about people in your life as well as yourself. It allows you the opportunity to practice new ways of interacting and, when ready, to try these in other relationships.
Counseling is a joint effort, which cannot be successful without your hard work, energy and courage. Regardless of the reasons you may be seeking counseling, I believe an enhanced sense of self understanding and acceptance is essential in all situations. Therapy provides a safe place to explore reactions, thoughts, and feelings about people in your life as well as yourself. It allows you the opportunity to practice new ways of interacting and, when ready, to try these in other relationships.
(208) 423-1262 View (208) 423-1262
Photo of Elizabeth A Videen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Elizabeth A Videen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
I am a highly skilled mental health counselor with 34 years of experience working in addictions and mental health issues. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-7451), Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I am trauma and crisis certified, IFS informed, offering EMDR. Two days of the week I have my King Charles Cavalier Spaniel in office with me. I am passionate about the process of change and believe in the capacity for recovery.
I am a highly skilled mental health counselor with 34 years of experience working in addictions and mental health issues. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-7451), Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I am trauma and crisis certified, IFS informed, offering EMDR. Two days of the week I have my King Charles Cavalier Spaniel in office with me. I am passionate about the process of change and believe in the capacity for recovery.
(208) 502-2693 View (208) 502-2693
Photo of Rebekah Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Rebekah Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
Not accepting new clients
It would be my honor to come alongside you and be allowed to offer you a space of compassion, empathy and understanding for your healing journey. My focus is to help clients accomplish goals, process unresolved trauma and learn to thrive where they have previously struggled. Anxiety, depression, trauma, abusive relationships, betrayal, addiction, divorce and stressful circumstances are a few of life's challenges that I have partnered with clients on in the past and have had the privilege of watching them overcome.
It would be my honor to come alongside you and be allowed to offer you a space of compassion, empathy and understanding for your healing journey. My focus is to help clients accomplish goals, process unresolved trauma and learn to thrive where they have previously struggled. Anxiety, depression, trauma, abusive relationships, betrayal, addiction, divorce and stressful circumstances are a few of life's challenges that I have partnered with clients on in the past and have had the privilege of watching them overcome.
(208) 481-8390 View (208) 481-8390
Photo of Chelise King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Chelise King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I believe that mental health challenges are personal and coming to counseling elicits vulnerability. I am eager to provide a nurturing environment which encourages honesty and authenticity. There is no judgement in our space together. Your voice is crucial to the healing process and our work together will be collaborative. I understand that it takes courage to start counseling and I acknowledge that step towards healing and growth.
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I believe that mental health challenges are personal and coming to counseling elicits vulnerability. I am eager to provide a nurturing environment which encourages honesty and authenticity. There is no judgement in our space together. Your voice is crucial to the healing process and our work together will be collaborative. I understand that it takes courage to start counseling and I acknowledge that step towards healing and growth.
(208) 285-3478 View (208) 285-3478
Photo of Lisa M Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Lisa M Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Few spots available! Welcome to Begin Within Counseling! Is there something holding you back from allowing the life that you want? Are there challenges you are facing right now that seem hopeless to find solutions? You are not alone. I partner with you to help you find real solutions to whatever is holding you back. I merge my professional background with my personal experiences working with Trauma Survivors, HSP/Empath Population, Step Parent Issues, Parents of Autistics, and more.
Few spots available! Welcome to Begin Within Counseling! Is there something holding you back from allowing the life that you want? Are there challenges you are facing right now that seem hopeless to find solutions? You are not alone. I partner with you to help you find real solutions to whatever is holding you back. I merge my professional background with my personal experiences working with Trauma Survivors, HSP/Empath Population, Step Parent Issues, Parents of Autistics, and more.
(208) 497-5608 View (208) 497-5608
Photo of Ryan Wynder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Ryan Wynder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
The process of change can be a difficult one. There are many obstacles you can expect to encounter in trying to change. The single most important factor in creating therapeutic change is actually the relationship that you have with your therapist. As a result, finding the best fit for YOU is crucial. I am devoted to creating a very genuine, safe, comfortable, empathetic, and understanding environment for my clients. My philosophy: because people are unique with their own individual experience, I pull from many different theories, exercises, and fields of thought to create an experience that is custom to my clients' specific needs.
The process of change can be a difficult one. There are many obstacles you can expect to encounter in trying to change. The single most important factor in creating therapeutic change is actually the relationship that you have with your therapist. As a result, finding the best fit for YOU is crucial. I am devoted to creating a very genuine, safe, comfortable, empathetic, and understanding environment for my clients. My philosophy: because people are unique with their own individual experience, I pull from many different theories, exercises, and fields of thought to create an experience that is custom to my clients' specific needs.
(970) 432-3588 View (970) 432-3588
Photo of Matt Barrus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Matt Barrus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Are you struggling through a recent traumatic event? Or maybe something difficult that you went through years ago? Perhaps you find it difficult to control how much you drink, or you can't stop looking at pornography? If you are experiencing any of these things, or the commonly-experienced shame that comes along for the ride, I would love to take the time to help you find effective solutions to these issues. I work primarily with adults and older teens, so if you or your teenager have been thinking about trying counseling, today might be the day.
Are you struggling through a recent traumatic event? Or maybe something difficult that you went through years ago? Perhaps you find it difficult to control how much you drink, or you can't stop looking at pornography? If you are experiencing any of these things, or the commonly-experienced shame that comes along for the ride, I would love to take the time to help you find effective solutions to these issues. I work primarily with adults and older teens, so if you or your teenager have been thinking about trying counseling, today might be the day.
(208) 314-1478 View (208) 314-1478

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Meridian, ID

500+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Meridian, ID who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
76% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
70% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Blue Cross
68% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Aetna

How Therapists in Meridian, ID see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Meridian?

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.