Therapists in Eagle River, AK

Photo of Tracie Meaders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Tracie Meaders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
I believe that everyone has the potential to live an abundant life, filled with joy and adventure. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to find ways to better understand themselves, and to address the roadblocks/challenges that may be interfering with their life goals and relationships. I have a MA degree in marriage and family therapy from George Fox University. My training includes working with individuals, children and adolescents, families, and couples.
I believe that everyone has the potential to live an abundant life, filled with joy and adventure. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to find ways to better understand themselves, and to address the roadblocks/challenges that may be interfering with their life goals and relationships. I have a MA degree in marriage and family therapy from George Fox University. My training includes working with individuals, children and adolescents, families, and couples.
(907) 312-5167 View (907) 312-5167
Photo of Chelsie Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eagle River, AK
Chelsie Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
I intimately relate to the adversity and discomfort that accompany life's trials. With that being said, I am deeply committed to facilitating personal growth and healing. My guiding principle is the transformative power of therapeutic relationships, wherein I embrace an authentic and relational approach to support my clients. My practice is anchored in the belief that each person's need for feeling seen and heard is paramount to their healing process.
I intimately relate to the adversity and discomfort that accompany life's trials. With that being said, I am deeply committed to facilitating personal growth and healing. My guiding principle is the transformative power of therapeutic relationships, wherein I embrace an authentic and relational approach to support my clients. My practice is anchored in the belief that each person's need for feeling seen and heard is paramount to their healing process.
(844) 929-3201 View (844) 929-3201
Photo of Orion Behavioral Health Network in Eagle River, AK
Orion Behavioral Health Network
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577  (Online Only)
Services Provided Our services include a thorough evaluation which will include an initial diagnostic impression. Our office will provide you with patient education and our reccomendations for additions to your current treatment plan, and may serve as a complement to the current treatment team. We are a multidisiplinary team and utilize multiple modalities for patient care including Tele-Medicine. Face to Face Services Depending on your location in Alaska, your initial appointment may be a face to face appointment with one of our providers.
Services Provided Our services include a thorough evaluation which will include an initial diagnostic impression. Our office will provide you with patient education and our reccomendations for additions to your current treatment plan, and may serve as a complement to the current treatment team. We are a multidisiplinary team and utilize multiple modalities for patient care including Tele-Medicine. Face to Face Services Depending on your location in Alaska, your initial appointment may be a face to face appointment with one of our providers.
(907) 696-7466 View (907) 696-7466
Photo of Laurie D Juraszek, Psychologist in Eagle River, AK
Laurie D Juraszek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
You know something isn’t right in your life and hasn’t been right for a while. You also know that you really don’t like talking about it, but your behaviors are becoming more problematic every day. Maybe you are fighting with loved ones, eating or drinking too much, sleeping too much or not enough, avoiding intimacy with your partner(s). Life just seems hard most days, and relating to others is a challenge. Life can be good, and you deserve the good life. You AND your relationships have more potential than even you can imagine, and your true capabilities might be Limitless.
You know something isn’t right in your life and hasn’t been right for a while. You also know that you really don’t like talking about it, but your behaviors are becoming more problematic every day. Maybe you are fighting with loved ones, eating or drinking too much, sleeping too much or not enough, avoiding intimacy with your partner(s). Life just seems hard most days, and relating to others is a challenge. Life can be good, and you deserve the good life. You AND your relationships have more potential than even you can imagine, and your true capabilities might be Limitless.
(907) 214-1181 View (907) 214-1181
Photo of Jordann Reynolds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eagle River, AK
Jordann Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
While it is often said that everyone has their own mountains to climb, and dark nights to get through, I firmly believe that seeking and accepting support is the key to conquering any obstacle. Therapy is a courageous step towards embracing personal growth and harnessing inner strength. Drawing from my experience, I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a person-centered, strengths-based approach in my practice. These evidence-based modalities provide a solid foundation for fostering transformative change and equipping individuals with the tools they need to overcome personal hurdles.
While it is often said that everyone has their own mountains to climb, and dark nights to get through, I firmly believe that seeking and accepting support is the key to conquering any obstacle. Therapy is a courageous step towards embracing personal growth and harnessing inner strength. Drawing from my experience, I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a person-centered, strengths-based approach in my practice. These evidence-based modalities provide a solid foundation for fostering transformative change and equipping individuals with the tools they need to overcome personal hurdles.
(907) 715-4993 View (907) 715-4993
Photo of Kim Hammans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Kim Hammans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
Do you ever wish you could truly be listened to and understood? I have felt the intensity of that longing and know the joy of having it answered. Because of my experience, I love connecting with people, building relationships, and hearing people's true hearts. It can feel scary to invite another person into our deepest places, but it can help us clarify who we are and allow us to experience healing within a safe relationship. This is why I love counseling. It is a joy to walk alongside people as they discover who they are made to be.
Do you ever wish you could truly be listened to and understood? I have felt the intensity of that longing and know the joy of having it answered. Because of my experience, I love connecting with people, building relationships, and hearing people's true hearts. It can feel scary to invite another person into our deepest places, but it can help us clarify who we are and allow us to experience healing within a safe relationship. This is why I love counseling. It is a joy to walk alongside people as they discover who they are made to be.
(314) 710-3007 View (314) 710-3007
Photo of Chugach Counseling & Consulting , Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Chugach Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Chugach Counseling & Consulting is an EMDR trauma-focused practice. All of our clinicians are either certified in EMDR or in the process of obtaining certification. We work with teens 16+ & adults individually as well as couples ( EFT). Clinicians: Stacey Brown-LPC, Samantha Getha-LCSW, Julissa Corona-LCSW, Miriam Albert-LPC, and Michelle Maddalozzo-LCSW. Each clinician offers different specialties and schedules. Please check out www.chugachcounseling.com to learn more about each clinician.
Chugach Counseling & Consulting is an EMDR trauma-focused practice. All of our clinicians are either certified in EMDR or in the process of obtaining certification. We work with teens 16+ & adults individually as well as couples ( EFT). Clinicians: Stacey Brown-LPC, Samantha Getha-LCSW, Julissa Corona-LCSW, Miriam Albert-LPC, and Michelle Maddalozzo-LCSW. Each clinician offers different specialties and schedules. Please check out www.chugachcounseling.com to learn more about each clinician.
(907) 202-7166 View (907) 202-7166
Photo of Megan Gruhl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Megan Gruhl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, INHC, MA, FNLP
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
You may experience anxiety, stress, or big changes in your life. You may feel overwhelmed or need perspective on a problem at work or school. I have a passion for vibrant health and living life to its fullest. As a counselor for the past 13 years, my practice is crafted toward lasting change for the whole person. My clients benefit from therapeutic strategies and lifestyle changes through exploration and reflection. As both a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and a Nationally Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, I offer individual counseling from a holistic perspective.
You may experience anxiety, stress, or big changes in your life. You may feel overwhelmed or need perspective on a problem at work or school. I have a passion for vibrant health and living life to its fullest. As a counselor for the past 13 years, my practice is crafted toward lasting change for the whole person. My clients benefit from therapeutic strategies and lifestyle changes through exploration and reflection. As both a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and a Nationally Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, I offer individual counseling from a holistic perspective.
(844) 818-1354 View (844) 818-1354
Photo of Alpine Relief Therapy - Erin Iwamoto, Psychologist in Eagle River, AK
Alpine Relief Therapy - Erin Iwamoto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in persistent pain psychology. At the heart of pain psychology, I believe in listening to the patient’s pain narrative and taking the time to hear their story of how pain began and developed over the course of time, and how it has impacted their every day functioning. This may include your relationships with loved ones, school, work, sleep, your ability to engage in simple every day tasks, or the impact of the negative stigma you have encountered as a result of having pain, any combination of the above, and more.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in persistent pain psychology. At the heart of pain psychology, I believe in listening to the patient’s pain narrative and taking the time to hear their story of how pain began and developed over the course of time, and how it has impacted their every day functioning. This may include your relationships with loved ones, school, work, sleep, your ability to engage in simple every day tasks, or the impact of the negative stigma you have encountered as a result of having pain, any combination of the above, and more.
(907) 215-2501 View (907) 215-2501
Photo of Kimberly Cummings, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Kimberly Cummings
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
As a mental health therapist, I believe that each client holds the answers to their own care. My role as a provider is to walk with the client and assist them through their journey of self-discovery.
As a mental health therapist, I believe that each client holds the answers to their own care. My role as a provider is to walk with the client and assist them through their journey of self-discovery.
(833) 690-5161 View (833) 690-5161
Photo of Erika Hopper, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eagle River, AK
Erika Hopper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Waitlist for new clients
My goal for all the services I provide is to build a relationship that creates a safe and non-judgmental environment for you. At the heart of my practice is the belief in the potential for every individual, despite their circumstances, to live a healthy and meaningful life. It is a privilege to hear your story, to help you understand where you come from and how that may be impacting you today. Using tools brought in from PCT, DBT, and SFT, I tailor my approach around you, working to meet your strengths, your unique needs, and your goals, helping you make the changes you want to see in your life as you move forward.
My goal for all the services I provide is to build a relationship that creates a safe and non-judgmental environment for you. At the heart of my practice is the belief in the potential for every individual, despite their circumstances, to live a healthy and meaningful life. It is a privilege to hear your story, to help you understand where you come from and how that may be impacting you today. Using tools brought in from PCT, DBT, and SFT, I tailor my approach around you, working to meet your strengths, your unique needs, and your goals, helping you make the changes you want to see in your life as you move forward.
(315) 531-4764 View (315) 531-4764
Photo of Sirpa T Gorman, Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Sirpa T Gorman
Counselor, MSLPC
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
I provide individual, family and couples counseling for children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. First session you and I will identify issues that you would like to work on and we will come up with a plan of action on how to implement your goals. I work with you throughout our sessions to come up with an optimal outcome for your life situation. Visit me also at www.alaskatherapy.com for more information.
I provide individual, family and couples counseling for children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. First session you and I will identify issues that you would like to work on and we will come up with a plan of action on how to implement your goals. I work with you throughout our sessions to come up with an optimal outcome for your life situation. Visit me also at www.alaskatherapy.com for more information.
(855) 956-1602 View (855) 956-1602
Photo of Justin Dobrenz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eagle River, AK
Justin Dobrenz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577  (Online Only)
Many people I meet with began therapy because life became overwhelming. People pleasing, perfectionism, and “holding it together” for everyone else left them at a loss. Hiding their imperfections and needs did not lead to better relationships, it actually led to more stress, worry, and feeling alone. I’ve sat with people who have difficulty knowing even the seemingly simplest things about themselves, like where they’d like to go to dinner, or what color looks good on them. All of this reflecting a deeper problem.
Many people I meet with began therapy because life became overwhelming. People pleasing, perfectionism, and “holding it together” for everyone else left them at a loss. Hiding their imperfections and needs did not lead to better relationships, it actually led to more stress, worry, and feeling alone. I’ve sat with people who have difficulty knowing even the seemingly simplest things about themselves, like where they’d like to go to dinner, or what color looks good on them. All of this reflecting a deeper problem.
(907) 891-8924 View (907) 891-8924
Photo of Sierra Stevens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Sierra Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CDCII
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in both Alaska and Oregon. I have a MA in Counseling Psychology from Pacific University in 2007, and have worked in the mental health field for nearly 20 years. I use a trauma informed framework and believe in the intrinsic ability for each individual to heal, find their own path and create a life of meaning. It is possible to go from merely just surviving and coping, to thriving. Generational healing, changing patterns and post traumatic growth is absolutely attainable.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in both Alaska and Oregon. I have a MA in Counseling Psychology from Pacific University in 2007, and have worked in the mental health field for nearly 20 years. I use a trauma informed framework and believe in the intrinsic ability for each individual to heal, find their own path and create a life of meaning. It is possible to go from merely just surviving and coping, to thriving. Generational healing, changing patterns and post traumatic growth is absolutely attainable.
(907) 689-3450 View (907) 689-3450
Photo of Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
(907) 318-7841 View (907) 318-7841
Lighted Path Therapy Services
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Have you been socially isolated and overwhelmed with life? Do you feel run down, worried, and depleted? Are you hoping for wholeness, happiness, and freedom? These kinds of experiences are painful and exhausting. And without effective care, they can reduce the quality of your life and contribute to long-term health problems. This painful pattern often becomes a downward spiral, which can habitually undermine your joy, intimacy, and hope. You do not have to face this journey alone; choose the professional care you need and deserve. Our talented clinicians at Lighted Path Therapy Services are here to help.
Have you been socially isolated and overwhelmed with life? Do you feel run down, worried, and depleted? Are you hoping for wholeness, happiness, and freedom? These kinds of experiences are painful and exhausting. And without effective care, they can reduce the quality of your life and contribute to long-term health problems. This painful pattern often becomes a downward spiral, which can habitually undermine your joy, intimacy, and hope. You do not have to face this journey alone; choose the professional care you need and deserve. Our talented clinicians at Lighted Path Therapy Services are here to help.
(907) 312-2307 View (907) 312-2307
Photo of Wholistic Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eagle River, AK
Wholistic Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDC
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
My focus is on working with individuals and families helping them become whole again. I have lived in Alaska on and off for 20 years, grew up in Minnesota, military spouse for 20 years, and have two young adult children. I work from a variety of therapeutic frameworks to help achieve holistic harmony and wellness. I have been a therapist for many years with children, teens, adults, and families in a variety of settings. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities that focus on a client's strengths as well as regaining balance such as EMDR, Somatic (SPI), EFT, CT, CBT, DBT and solution focused therapies.
My focus is on working with individuals and families helping them become whole again. I have lived in Alaska on and off for 20 years, grew up in Minnesota, military spouse for 20 years, and have two young adult children. I work from a variety of therapeutic frameworks to help achieve holistic harmony and wellness. I have been a therapist for many years with children, teens, adults, and families in a variety of settings. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities that focus on a client's strengths as well as regaining balance such as EMDR, Somatic (SPI), EFT, CT, CBT, DBT and solution focused therapies.
(907) 318-7459 View (907) 318-7459
Photo of A Safe Harbor Counseling Services, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eagle River, AK
A Safe Harbor Counseling Services, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
I’ve spent many years working with clients who have, at times, felt overworked and overwhelmed by life’s expectations. If you have ever found yourself struggling with important roles at work, at home, and in your community, I am here to guide you and assist in learning to balance it all while staying healthy and happy.
I’ve spent many years working with clients who have, at times, felt overworked and overwhelmed by life’s expectations. If you have ever found yourself struggling with important roles at work, at home, and in your community, I am here to guide you and assist in learning to balance it all while staying healthy and happy.
(907) 406-7707 View (907) 406-7707
Photo of Rachel Buddin-Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
Rachel Buddin-Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CDCII, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
Welcome to Lighted Path Therapy Services, LLC. Sometimes we face obstacles in our life that make us feel as though we just want to give up. Relationships, personal goals, happiness and life satisfaction can sometimes feel so far out of reach and impossible that it leads to feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and frustration. But there is hope! Hope for your personal goals, hope for your relationships and hope for a life of joy.
Welcome to Lighted Path Therapy Services, LLC. Sometimes we face obstacles in our life that make us feel as though we just want to give up. Relationships, personal goals, happiness and life satisfaction can sometimes feel so far out of reach and impossible that it leads to feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and frustration. But there is hope! Hope for your personal goals, hope for your relationships and hope for a life of joy.
(855) 935-4959 View (855) 935-4959
Photo of See As Me (SAM) Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagle River, AK
See As Me (SAM) Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in helping people and bringing awareness to people who struggle with mental health challenges. I hope to motivate and inspire clients to envision more out of their life than the circumstances they were dealt. From working with clients in foster care and low socioeconomics status, to probation of clients who feel that their past has already determine their future. I would love to be that voice in helping you see that you can be successful. I would also like to empowered parents working with their kids by educating them on challenges and providing resources that is helpful in supporting their kid.
I believe in helping people and bringing awareness to people who struggle with mental health challenges. I hope to motivate and inspire clients to envision more out of their life than the circumstances they were dealt. From working with clients in foster care and low socioeconomics status, to probation of clients who feel that their past has already determine their future. I would love to be that voice in helping you see that you can be successful. I would also like to empowered parents working with their kids by educating them on challenges and providing resources that is helpful in supporting their kid.
(907) 312-2153 View (907) 312-2153

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Eagle River, AK

70+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Eagle River, AK who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
94% Trauma and PTSD
85% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
76% Coping Skills
75% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Premera
66% Aetna

How Therapists in Eagle River, AK see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Eagle River?

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.