Therapists in Monkton, MD

Photo of Terry McGeehan, LCPC
Terry McGeehan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Monkton, MD 21111
My style has been described as innovative yet practical. I work with clients to develop healthier ways of coping with life and creating more satisfying relationships. A non-judgmental, trusting therapeutic relationship is essential. Experiential learning and educational materials provide the basis for lasting change. Areas of skill building include, emotional regulation, grief relief, living with anxiety, depression, healing trauma. Relationship skills involve communication, conflict resolution, keeping love alive and refining commitment. Methods include Mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, body centered therapy and desensitization with EMDR. The work of therapy becomes the joy and satisfaction of living.
My style has been described as innovative yet practical. I work with clients to develop healthier ways of coping with life and creating more satisfying relationships. A non-judgmental, trusting therapeutic relationship is essential. Experiential learning and educational materials provide the basis for lasting change. Areas of skill building include, emotional regulation, grief relief, living with anxiety, depression, healing trauma. Relationship skills involve communication, conflict resolution, keeping love alive and refining commitment. Methods include Mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, body centered therapy and desensitization with EMDR. The work of therapy becomes the joy and satisfaction of living.
(410) 775-6951 View (410) 775-6951
Photo of Cara Ebling, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Ebling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Monkton, MD 21111
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Reaching out for help and taking steps to take care of yourself is a big deal. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns or just simply having a difficult time and need extra support, you deserve to be heard. Through a positive, supportive and nurturing environment, I will help you learn the tools you need to assist with the difficulties life has thrown your way. You will learn coping skills that are vital in helping you achieve your wellness goals.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Reaching out for help and taking steps to take care of yourself is a big deal. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns or just simply having a difficult time and need extra support, you deserve to be heard. Through a positive, supportive and nurturing environment, I will help you learn the tools you need to assist with the difficulties life has thrown your way. You will learn coping skills that are vital in helping you achieve your wellness goals.
(410) 587-2931 View (410) 587-2931
Photo of Regina Marie Stiffler, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Marie Stiffler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You're fucking tired. You've been through some shit and it seems like you haven't had a good night's sleep since. You're always anxious, waiting for the next thing to happen. Somehow, you've lost yourself and you don't know how to get back to the person you want to be. And you're so lonely. You push people away, either on purpose or without thinking. You just can't trust them.
You're fucking tired. You've been through some shit and it seems like you haven't had a good night's sleep since. You're always anxious, waiting for the next thing to happen. Somehow, you've lost yourself and you don't know how to get back to the person you want to be. And you're so lonely. You push people away, either on purpose or without thinking. You just can't trust them.
(469) 414-3402 View (469) 414-3402
Photo of Cheri Lally - Lighted Path Counseling Center, LLC, LCSW-C, ITR-TTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lighted Path Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ITR-TTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of life's challenges. I'm a licensed Therapist in Cockeysville, MD. I'd love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I'm here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of life's challenges. I'm a licensed Therapist in Cockeysville, MD. I'd love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I'm here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change.
(443) 785-2780 View (443) 785-2780
Photo of Mary Norman, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Norman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
No childhood is perfect. Growing up can be an exciting and beautiful experience at times, but it is also hard work- and it can really be a lot to feel! How do we help our children grow to be as happy and confident as possible in this complicated world? How can we help them relate in a healthy way to the full range of emotions that come with a meaningful life? Parents have an important and challenging job to do. Every child is unique. Our children sometimes unknowingly stand on the bruises of our own childhood or adulthood in ways that can surprise and confuse us.
No childhood is perfect. Growing up can be an exciting and beautiful experience at times, but it is also hard work- and it can really be a lot to feel! How do we help our children grow to be as happy and confident as possible in this complicated world? How can we help them relate in a healthy way to the full range of emotions that come with a meaningful life? Parents have an important and challenging job to do. Every child is unique. Our children sometimes unknowingly stand on the bruises of our own childhood or adulthood in ways that can surprise and confuse us.
(443) 998-8197 View (443) 998-8197
Photo of Elliott Driscoll, LCSW-C, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elliott Driscoll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MBA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a business professional and psychotherapist. Most of my patients are busy business people who have issues that hold them back. I apply psychotherapy to help them practically improve lives. My clients have been very successful when they have worked at it. To succeed in therapy try new behaviors, disclose difficult experiences, and let go of old patterns of thinking and behaving. If you choose to call please be prepared to work to achieve results. You can expect mutual respect, confidentiality, and professional boundaries.
I am a business professional and psychotherapist. Most of my patients are busy business people who have issues that hold them back. I apply psychotherapy to help them practically improve lives. My clients have been very successful when they have worked at it. To succeed in therapy try new behaviors, disclose difficult experiences, and let go of old patterns of thinking and behaving. If you choose to call please be prepared to work to achieve results. You can expect mutual respect, confidentiality, and professional boundaries.
(410) 337-7772 x2 View (410) 337-7772 x2

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Meredith Snow, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Snow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
As a therapist, I am here to provide a genuine connection, someone who is open and responsive to your needs and concerns. I can help you clarify your goals and objectives and identify how you want to address these challenges.
As a therapist, I am here to provide a genuine connection, someone who is open and responsive to your needs and concerns. I can help you clarify your goals and objectives and identify how you want to address these challenges.
(443) 407-8870 View (443) 407-8870
Photo of Dr. E. S. Fulgham - RENU 2, LLC, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
RENU 2, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is open to the transformation process in therapy. I have treated patients from ages 18-80 with varying diagnoses. They range from mentally-ill to severely mentally-ill, and often suffer with co-morbidities. It is important to remember that you have everything you need inside of you to heal.
My ideal client is someone who is open to the transformation process in therapy. I have treated patients from ages 18-80 with varying diagnoses. They range from mentally-ill to severely mentally-ill, and often suffer with co-morbidities. It is important to remember that you have everything you need inside of you to heal.
(240) 823-4280 View (240) 823-4280
Photo of Lavina Velasco, LCPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lavina Velasco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults across the lifespan needing support for anxiety, grief, relationships, and major life changes. Whether we meet virtually, face-to-face, or outdoors in nature, my clients leave sessions feeling reconnected to their self-worth and ability to change unwanted patterns. I have a special interest in helping clients heal from loss; establish healthy boundaries; practice courageous communication; and enjoy meaningful connection with others.
I work with adults across the lifespan needing support for anxiety, grief, relationships, and major life changes. Whether we meet virtually, face-to-face, or outdoors in nature, my clients leave sessions feeling reconnected to their self-worth and ability to change unwanted patterns. I have a special interest in helping clients heal from loss; establish healthy boundaries; practice courageous communication; and enjoy meaningful connection with others.
(443) 377-1970 View (443) 377-1970
Photo of Jeanne Barber, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanne Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome to my practice! You've made the courageous choice to seek help. ​In working with me, you will receive individualized treatment based on the challenges and needs that you identify. The many modalities I utilize are backed by research and proven effective, and will be tailored to meet your unique needs. My goal is to provide you with a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience to help you improve your mental health, reach your goals, and achieve your potential. You can expect constructive and compassionate feedback. Together we will meet your goals and accomplish healing.
Hello and welcome to my practice! You've made the courageous choice to seek help. ​In working with me, you will receive individualized treatment based on the challenges and needs that you identify. The many modalities I utilize are backed by research and proven effective, and will be tailored to meet your unique needs. My goal is to provide you with a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience to help you improve your mental health, reach your goals, and achieve your potential. You can expect constructive and compassionate feedback. Together we will meet your goals and accomplish healing.
(410) 941-3580 View (410) 941-3580
Photo of Lindsay D McClune, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay D McClune
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes it feels like we are not making progress toward our life objectives, or sometimes like the coping skills that once worked are no longer working. Maybe you are experiencing challenges with self-esteem which are getting in the way of positive change. Maybe you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or difficulty adjusting to a transition in your life. I will provide a safe, affirming place, free of judgment or criticism, where together we can help you connect with your thoughts, feelings, and behavior in relation to yourself and others.
Sometimes it feels like we are not making progress toward our life objectives, or sometimes like the coping skills that once worked are no longer working. Maybe you are experiencing challenges with self-esteem which are getting in the way of positive change. Maybe you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or difficulty adjusting to a transition in your life. I will provide a safe, affirming place, free of judgment or criticism, where together we can help you connect with your thoughts, feelings, and behavior in relation to yourself and others.
(410) 343-4691 View (410) 343-4691
Photo of Jaime Gaudet, LCPC
Jaime Gaudet
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jaime Gaudet. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. I have over 22 years of experience as a counselor, and I use a Client-Centered approach. I have been described as compassionate, creative, friendly and easy-going. I typically work with clients who are struggling with, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, parenting issues, poor coping skills, and anger management. Client-Centered, Positive Psychology, and I use Art Therapy techniques, as needed. It is not necessary to be a good artist and clients do not have to try Art Therapy if they don't want to. Talk-therapy is also fine.
Hello, my name is Jaime Gaudet. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. I have over 22 years of experience as a counselor, and I use a Client-Centered approach. I have been described as compassionate, creative, friendly and easy-going. I typically work with clients who are struggling with, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, parenting issues, poor coping skills, and anger management. Client-Centered, Positive Psychology, and I use Art Therapy techniques, as needed. It is not necessary to be a good artist and clients do not have to try Art Therapy if they don't want to. Talk-therapy is also fine.
(410) 873-7911 View (410) 873-7911
Photo of Angela Marie Kelley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Marie Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-injury, co-dependency, phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, impulse-control, focus problems, or bereavement? Do you feel like something isn't right with your relationships, or wish you felt better about yourself? Is getting through the day difficult? Are your symptoms affecting your ability to function? I am here to help. As a licensed therapist and social worker, I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating emotional and behavioral symptoms.
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-injury, co-dependency, phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, impulse-control, focus problems, or bereavement? Do you feel like something isn't right with your relationships, or wish you felt better about yourself? Is getting through the day difficult? Are your symptoms affecting your ability to function? I am here to help. As a licensed therapist and social worker, I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating emotional and behavioral symptoms.
(410) 847-2646 View (410) 847-2646
Photo of Felicia Turner - Turner Insight Counseling, LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turner Insight Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
It sounds like you're describing feelings that can be incredibly tough to deal with. Experiencing sadness, low energy, negative thoughts, and isolation can be overwhelming. When physical symptoms like shaking, increased heart rate, or tightness in the chest appear, they can amplify feelings of embarrassment and shame, making it even harder to cope. I want you to know that you're not alone in feeling this way, and it's okay to seek help. Together, we can explore the underlying causes of these emotions and work towards finding ways to regain your interest in the activities you once enjoyed.
It sounds like you're describing feelings that can be incredibly tough to deal with. Experiencing sadness, low energy, negative thoughts, and isolation can be overwhelming. When physical symptoms like shaking, increased heart rate, or tightness in the chest appear, they can amplify feelings of embarrassment and shame, making it even harder to cope. I want you to know that you're not alone in feeling this way, and it's okay to seek help. Together, we can explore the underlying causes of these emotions and work towards finding ways to regain your interest in the activities you once enjoyed.
(443) 726-1521 View (443) 726-1521
Photo of Victoria Songonuga - Ìtùnú Wellness, MS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ìtùnú Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Victoria. Welcome to Ìtùnú Wellness (pronounced "ee-too-nou"). Ìtùnú is a Yoruba word for Comfort. As a therapist, I understand that life can feel overwhelming, especially when juggling personal, cultural, and societal expectations. My mission is to provide you with a space where you feel seen, heard, and comforted. I bring compassion, cultural awareness, and a culturally focused approach to help you navigate life’s challenges and learn how to de-pathologize your emotional and mental experiences.
Hi! I'm Victoria. Welcome to Ìtùnú Wellness (pronounced "ee-too-nou"). Ìtùnú is a Yoruba word for Comfort. As a therapist, I understand that life can feel overwhelming, especially when juggling personal, cultural, and societal expectations. My mission is to provide you with a space where you feel seen, heard, and comforted. I bring compassion, cultural awareness, and a culturally focused approach to help you navigate life’s challenges and learn how to de-pathologize your emotional and mental experiences.
(410) 213-3607 View (410) 213-3607
Photo of Sylvia Bikos, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sylvia Bikos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Blissful Balance, where we nurture growth, healing, and lasting change. As an experienced Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical, I specialize in addressing various mental health challenges. With 8 years of experience, I empower adults, young adults, and families from diverse backgrounds to lead fulfilling lives. Blissful Balance will tailor a treatment plan using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Trauma-Focused Therapy. Licensed in Maryland, I offer supportive individuals sessions with convenient online therapy options.
Welcome to Blissful Balance, where we nurture growth, healing, and lasting change. As an experienced Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical, I specialize in addressing various mental health challenges. With 8 years of experience, I empower adults, young adults, and families from diverse backgrounds to lead fulfilling lives. Blissful Balance will tailor a treatment plan using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Trauma-Focused Therapy. Licensed in Maryland, I offer supportive individuals sessions with convenient online therapy options.
(443) 234-0772 View (443) 234-0772
Photo of Jake Chames, LMSW, Somatic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jake Chames
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, Somatic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stevenson, MD 21153
Emotional Pain. It is something we've all experienced. However, we often tend to sidestep and ignore it instead of confronting and embracing it. This leads to stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I work with my clients to become comfortable with feeling the pain of their past and present in a safe and healthy environment, enabling them to live a more wholesome lifestyle.
Emotional Pain. It is something we've all experienced. However, we often tend to sidestep and ignore it instead of confronting and embracing it. This leads to stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I work with my clients to become comfortable with feeling the pain of their past and present in a safe and healthy environment, enabling them to live a more wholesome lifestyle.
(410) 324-6179 View (410) 324-6179
Photo of Crystal Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a proud alumni of Fisk University and Howard University. It was at Howard University that I obtained my Master's in Social Work. I began my career working with treatment foster youth providing individual and family therapy at a non-profit organization. After dedication and hard work I was promoted to Project Director and began to engage in recruitment in training. After, I conducted risk assessments for Baltimore County Department of Social Services in their Adult Protective Services Unit. Lastly, I transitioned into the medical field working in discharge planning at MedStar Union Memorial and then University of Maryland in the
I am a proud alumni of Fisk University and Howard University. It was at Howard University that I obtained my Master's in Social Work. I began my career working with treatment foster youth providing individual and family therapy at a non-profit organization. After dedication and hard work I was promoted to Project Director and began to engage in recruitment in training. After, I conducted risk assessments for Baltimore County Department of Social Services in their Adult Protective Services Unit. Lastly, I transitioned into the medical field working in discharge planning at MedStar Union Memorial and then University of Maryland in the
(240) 563-9003 View (240) 563-9003
Photo of Faith Wilson, LGPC, Counselor
Faith Wilson
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093
Your story is a tapestry that shapes your unique fabric. Healing begins with understanding that narrative, and together, we’ll unravel the past and weave a brighter future through faith. I specialize in grief, relational dynamics, intergenerational wounds, and racial trauma, using somatic experiencing to reconnect your mind and body. Think of our work as tending to your inner garden; we’ll clear the weeds and nourish the roots for your true self to blossom. Let’s embark on this transformative journey toward resilience and peace!
Your story is a tapestry that shapes your unique fabric. Healing begins with understanding that narrative, and together, we’ll unravel the past and weave a brighter future through faith. I specialize in grief, relational dynamics, intergenerational wounds, and racial trauma, using somatic experiencing to reconnect your mind and body. Think of our work as tending to your inner garden; we’ll clear the weeds and nourish the roots for your true self to blossom. Let’s embark on this transformative journey toward resilience and peace!
(240) 448-6840 View (240) 448-6840
Photo of Nicole Ann Jackson - A Change Will Come Counseling Services, LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Change Will Come Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
I know many of you approached this website with caution. Unsure if you were making the right decision to communicate your feelings to a stranger. Let me be the first to tell you YOU ARE MAKING THE RIGHT DECISION! Are you feeling stuck in life? Consistently feeling anxious or sad? Are you having trouble maintaining healthy relationships? Stagnant at work? Feeling purposeless? I understand what that feels like, and admire the courage it took for you to get here. A change is coming!
I know many of you approached this website with caution. Unsure if you were making the right decision to communicate your feelings to a stranger. Let me be the first to tell you YOU ARE MAKING THE RIGHT DECISION! Are you feeling stuck in life? Consistently feeling anxious or sad? Are you having trouble maintaining healthy relationships? Stagnant at work? Feeling purposeless? I understand what that feels like, and admire the courage it took for you to get here. A change is coming!
(410) 264-1418 x500 View (410) 264-1418 x500

See more therapy options for Monkton

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Monkton, MD

< 10

Therapists in Monkton, MD who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Self Esteem
83% Relationship Issues
83% Grief
83% Coping Skills
83% Stress

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna

How Therapists in Monkton, MD see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Monkton?

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.