Therapists in Hodgenville, KY

Photo of Melanie L Staderman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Melanie L Staderman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hodgenville, KY 42748
My practice is open to individuals aged 5 and up or couples who are struggling with mental health disorders, marital discord, change of life transitions, or dealing with one of life's many struggles. I provide counseling from a systems approach meaning I believe that you have to look at many factors in addressing the problem. My skill and competence is well developed whether I am working with children, individual adults, couples, or families.
My practice is open to individuals aged 5 and up or couples who are struggling with mental health disorders, marital discord, change of life transitions, or dealing with one of life's many struggles. I provide counseling from a systems approach meaning I believe that you have to look at many factors in addressing the problem. My skill and competence is well developed whether I am working with children, individual adults, couples, or families.
(270) 854-0928 View (270) 854-0928
Photo of Bobbe Gaye Renshaw, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hodgenville, KY
Bobbe Gaye Renshaw
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Hodgenville, KY 42748
I am excited to work with clients from all walks of life. I myself have walked quite an interesting life. I've experienced many ups and downs filled with self-growth, loss and healing, and many transitions and challenges along the way Assisting those dealing with Grief and Loss are perhaps one of the areas I am most passionate about and versed in, however, my primary goal is to help all who may seek guidance. I enjoy working with children on the Autism Spectrum, anyone who suffers from depression or anxiety, and anyone who feels hopeless and needs to believe again; including individuals, couples and families.
I am excited to work with clients from all walks of life. I myself have walked quite an interesting life. I've experienced many ups and downs filled with self-growth, loss and healing, and many transitions and challenges along the way Assisting those dealing with Grief and Loss are perhaps one of the areas I am most passionate about and versed in, however, my primary goal is to help all who may seek guidance. I enjoy working with children on the Autism Spectrum, anyone who suffers from depression or anxiety, and anyone who feels hopeless and needs to believe again; including individuals, couples and families.
(270) 201-5068 View (270) 201-5068
Photo of Jessica Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Jessica Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hodgenville, KY 42748  (Online Only)
Things in our world can change very rapidly, leaving us feeling lost and broken. Sometimes things pile up over time and become too heavy to carry. It can be difficult to manage all of this alone but also frightening to ask for help. I have approximately 18 years of experience working with those who struggle with long-term issues and those who have had a sudden life change and are experiencing new and unexpected stressors. I exclusively offer telehealth services to provide flexible scheduling and a feeling of security and safety as you walk your path to healing and change from the comfort of your own environment.
Things in our world can change very rapidly, leaving us feeling lost and broken. Sometimes things pile up over time and become too heavy to carry. It can be difficult to manage all of this alone but also frightening to ask for help. I have approximately 18 years of experience working with those who struggle with long-term issues and those who have had a sudden life change and are experiencing new and unexpected stressors. I exclusively offer telehealth services to provide flexible scheduling and a feeling of security and safety as you walk your path to healing and change from the comfort of your own environment.
(270) 401-8844 View (270) 401-8844
Photo of Jetona K Milby, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Jetona K Milby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hodgenville, KY 42748
All humans are unique, as are all clients. While there is no way to describe the “ideal” client, I work best with those individuals who place a high value on authenticity, transparency, and honesty. Those three factors are well suited for clients who are goal-driven and aspire true and lasting change. Some areas of rewarding experience have included work with non-traditional family structures, women’s health and wellness, intergenerational trauma healing, adoption and its impact for all involved, and healthy relationship development- to name a few. I assist humans in realizing, trusting, and believing in their truest potential.
All humans are unique, as are all clients. While there is no way to describe the “ideal” client, I work best with those individuals who place a high value on authenticity, transparency, and honesty. Those three factors are well suited for clients who are goal-driven and aspire true and lasting change. Some areas of rewarding experience have included work with non-traditional family structures, women’s health and wellness, intergenerational trauma healing, adoption and its impact for all involved, and healthy relationship development- to name a few. I assist humans in realizing, trusting, and believing in their truest potential.
(270) 232-2175 View (270) 232-2175
Photo of Jennifer Lanham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Jennifer Lanham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hodgenville, KY 42748
Healing work begins by providing a safe, non-judgmental space. As a collaborative relationship between client and therapist, effective treatment outcomes center on the client's sense of self-efficacy. My clinical approach and techniques include trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. These methods and techniques provide a unique and innovative delivery for behavioral health care.
Healing work begins by providing a safe, non-judgmental space. As a collaborative relationship between client and therapist, effective treatment outcomes center on the client's sense of self-efficacy. My clinical approach and techniques include trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. These methods and techniques provide a unique and innovative delivery for behavioral health care.
(502) 747-1693 View (502) 747-1693
Deborah Ann Edds
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hodgenville, KY 42748
Dr. Edds has 20 years of experience working in the Bardstown area. During this time, she has developed good working relationships with many of the doctors, schools and agencies in the area. Feel free to ask your doctor, school counselor or agency representative for their opinion of Dr. Edds' work.
Dr. Edds has 20 years of experience working in the Bardstown area. During this time, she has developed good working relationships with many of the doctors, schools and agencies in the area. Feel free to ask your doctor, school counselor or agency representative for their opinion of Dr. Edds' work.
(502) 565-0861 View (502) 565-0861
Photo of Nicholas Watters, Psychologist in Hodgenville, KY
Nicholas Watters
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hodgenville, KY 42748
I provide Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation Psychology services. My Internship at Lakeview Neurobehavioral Rehabilitation in Wisconsin included training in Neurocognitive assessment and interventions for adults and children in the Specialty Hospital and Child Residential units. The patients and residents were treated for Acquired Brain Injury, Autism, and other neurocognitive conditions. Since 2005, I have been living and working in Hardin County, initially in Community Mental Health. I began my own practice in 2012. Besides psychotherapy, I provide neurocognitive and psychological evaluations requested by local neurologists, behavioral health providers, and primary care phyicians..
I provide Clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation Psychology services. My Internship at Lakeview Neurobehavioral Rehabilitation in Wisconsin included training in Neurocognitive assessment and interventions for adults and children in the Specialty Hospital and Child Residential units. The patients and residents were treated for Acquired Brain Injury, Autism, and other neurocognitive conditions. Since 2005, I have been living and working in Hardin County, initially in Community Mental Health. I began my own practice in 2012. Besides psychotherapy, I provide neurocognitive and psychological evaluations requested by local neurologists, behavioral health providers, and primary care phyicians..
(270) 972-4572 View (270) 972-4572

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly Hollingsworth, Counselor in Hodgenville, KY
Kimberly Hollingsworth
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
Making the decision to seek therapy can sometimes be intimidating, but every journey starts with a first step! I'm here to help you take that first step toward wellness. In our first session, we'll talk about what your goals for therapy look like and create a plan together. I am solution focused and I like to find practical ways to integrate positive changes to help you meet your goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, or self esteem, we can find answers together in a judgement free zone. I'm LGBTQ+ affirming and welcome individuals from all walks of life.
Making the decision to seek therapy can sometimes be intimidating, but every journey starts with a first step! I'm here to help you take that first step toward wellness. In our first session, we'll talk about what your goals for therapy look like and create a plan together. I am solution focused and I like to find practical ways to integrate positive changes to help you meet your goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, or self esteem, we can find answers together in a judgement free zone. I'm LGBTQ+ affirming and welcome individuals from all walks of life.
(859) 715-0699 View (859) 715-0699
Photo of Crystal Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Crystal Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40220
My ideal client is focused upon personal growth and healing. Someone who looks at their barriers, but also utilizes their strengths to overcome or minimize those barriers. My ideal client understands at times we all need help, and simply want someone to walk beside them on their journey. One of the most challenging things you may be faced with is trying to understand why you are the way you are, or why you behave the way you do. Instead, I want you to stop looking at your faults, your mistakes, the "what if's" and remember, one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story.
My ideal client is focused upon personal growth and healing. Someone who looks at their barriers, but also utilizes their strengths to overcome or minimize those barriers. My ideal client understands at times we all need help, and simply want someone to walk beside them on their journey. One of the most challenging things you may be faced with is trying to understand why you are the way you are, or why you behave the way you do. Instead, I want you to stop looking at your faults, your mistakes, the "what if's" and remember, one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story.
(502) 465-8178 View (502) 465-8178
Photo of Karen Manley Richardson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Karen Manley Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40291
I have extensive experience in addressing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol and substance abuse -co-occurring with mental health issues, child/parenting issues, issues related to divorce, foster care child/youth/family challenges, relationship building and restoration. I also have a broad range of therapeutic knowledge of grief and trauma. I can address issues with a Christian foundation, as requested.
I have extensive experience in addressing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol and substance abuse -co-occurring with mental health issues, child/parenting issues, issues related to divorce, foster care child/youth/family challenges, relationship building and restoration. I also have a broad range of therapeutic knowledge of grief and trauma. I can address issues with a Christian foundation, as requested.
(502) 680-8886 View (502) 680-8886
Photo of Natasha Regina Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Natasha Regina Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT-S, LMFT, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Vine Grove, KY 40175  (Online Only)
I can help you uncover the causes of your issues, teach methods of relaxation, help view situations in new ways, and help you to develop better coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills. While I have years of experience treating a wide range of disorders, I also remain up to date on the most effective forms of treatment for obtaining the relief that you desire and deserve.
I can help you uncover the causes of your issues, teach methods of relaxation, help view situations in new ways, and help you to develop better coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills. While I have years of experience treating a wide range of disorders, I also remain up to date on the most effective forms of treatment for obtaining the relief that you desire and deserve.
(270) 612-3982 View (270) 612-3982
Photo of Kathina Faith Conley, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Hodgenville, KY
Kathina Faith Conley
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40511
I am capable of helping you by always seeking knowledge. I want to be able to empathize and place myself in your shoes so I strive to educate myself on what you are currently going through. This looks like me dedicating myself to continuing education on an array of treatments, disorders, approaches, and the like to ensure I already have or develop specialty in your condition.
I am capable of helping you by always seeking knowledge. I want to be able to empathize and place myself in your shoes so I strive to educate myself on what you are currently going through. This looks like me dedicating myself to continuing education on an array of treatments, disorders, approaches, and the like to ensure I already have or develop specialty in your condition.
(859) 659-6945 View (859) 659-6945
Photo of Kellie R. Dryden LCSW Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Kellie R. Dryden LCSW Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Lexington, Kentucky with over 20 years of experience in the field. I have been fortunate to serve our community in a variety of roles over the years and have gained experience working with diverse populations of individuals and families. Currently, I provide individual counseling to adults (18 years and above) with a variety of mental health needs including anxiety, burn out/stress, mood disorders/emotional regulation problems, depression, grief/loss, PTSD/trauma, self-esteem/self-confidence issues, life adjustment/life change issues, interpersonal/relational problems.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Lexington, Kentucky with over 20 years of experience in the field. I have been fortunate to serve our community in a variety of roles over the years and have gained experience working with diverse populations of individuals and families. Currently, I provide individual counseling to adults (18 years and above) with a variety of mental health needs including anxiety, burn out/stress, mood disorders/emotional regulation problems, depression, grief/loss, PTSD/trauma, self-esteem/self-confidence issues, life adjustment/life change issues, interpersonal/relational problems.
(859) 374-7782 View (859) 374-7782
Photo of Inner Solace Counseling -Amanda C. Parsons, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Hodgenville, KY
Inner Solace Counseling -Amanda C. Parsons, LPCC-S
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40504
Is your stress, anxiety or depression affecting your job, relationships, or time with family and friends? Do you need help moving past a difficult time? At Inner Solace Counseling, we believe each person has the ability within themselves to develop personal strengths and work through their own issues. Our job as your counselor is to help you find the tools, strength, and confidence to do so in a safe space, free from judgement or shame. Call or email today or go to www.innersolacecounseling.com for appointment options!
Is your stress, anxiety or depression affecting your job, relationships, or time with family and friends? Do you need help moving past a difficult time? At Inner Solace Counseling, we believe each person has the ability within themselves to develop personal strengths and work through their own issues. Our job as your counselor is to help you find the tools, strength, and confidence to do so in a safe space, free from judgement or shame. Call or email today or go to www.innersolacecounseling.com for appointment options!
(859) 439-4192 View (859) 439-4192
Photo of Karen Chapman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Karen Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced a life-changing event? Is it a struggle to integrate it in your life? I have a passion for and am trained to help process significant life events and loss/grief surrounding your experience. Such events often change you and the way you see/interact with the world and a strength of mine it to help folks explore those changes and their impact. I am committed to honesty and positive intention. I enjoy working with people diverse in identity. I am currently enjoying and finding success working with many Gen Z (18+), millennial and Gen X populations with a lot of experience in across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
Have you experienced a life-changing event? Is it a struggle to integrate it in your life? I have a passion for and am trained to help process significant life events and loss/grief surrounding your experience. Such events often change you and the way you see/interact with the world and a strength of mine it to help folks explore those changes and their impact. I am committed to honesty and positive intention. I enjoy working with people diverse in identity. I am currently enjoying and finding success working with many Gen Z (18+), millennial and Gen X populations with a lot of experience in across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
(502) 305-3450 View (502) 305-3450
Photo of Rosenthal Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Rosenthal Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My areas of focus: Adult issues, parenting, Bi-Polar, adolescents, Depression, PTSD, Substance Use, Gender confirming and LGBTQ affirming. Gottman Couples therapist. My experience with legal issues around divorce and reunification allows me to work closely with your attorney. Accepting insurance and private pay. Law enforcement and Prior military experience. My hours support working couples, individuals and school aged children. After hours appointments and weekend sessions are available. Currently, I'm in my 22th year of practice.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My areas of focus: Adult issues, parenting, Bi-Polar, adolescents, Depression, PTSD, Substance Use, Gender confirming and LGBTQ affirming. Gottman Couples therapist. My experience with legal issues around divorce and reunification allows me to work closely with your attorney. Accepting insurance and private pay. Law enforcement and Prior military experience. My hours support working couples, individuals and school aged children. After hours appointments and weekend sessions are available. Currently, I'm in my 22th year of practice.
(502) 517-4043 View (502) 517-4043
Photo of Monica L Hurt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hodgenville, KY
Monica L Hurt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pewee Valley, KY 40056
In my practice, I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and couples to help them achieve their goals and bring about positive changes to their lives. My approach is mindfulness based and solution-oriented, emphasizing strengths and guiding clients through emotional barriers. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is based on trust, and is at the core of my practice. With my extensive professional experience, education, and personal life insights, I aim to be a compassionate and effective therapist. My dedication is to guide you in achieving the transformation you seek for yourself, your relationships, and your family.
In my practice, I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and couples to help them achieve their goals and bring about positive changes to their lives. My approach is mindfulness based and solution-oriented, emphasizing strengths and guiding clients through emotional barriers. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is based on trust, and is at the core of my practice. With my extensive professional experience, education, and personal life insights, I aim to be a compassionate and effective therapist. My dedication is to guide you in achieving the transformation you seek for yourself, your relationships, and your family.
(502) 324-1598 View (502) 324-1598
Photo of Ian Hall, Counselor in Hodgenville, KY
Ian Hall
Counselor, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
I am a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate (LPCA) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the NBCC. My passion is working with individuals, both adolescents, and adults, experiencing trauma and PTSD, depression, and anxiety utilizing various modalities including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy), CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I also have experience working with serious mental illness and substance use. It would be an honor to walk with you through your pain to assist you in finding healing, breaking generational trauma, and learning how to love yourself again.
I am a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate (LPCA) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the NBCC. My passion is working with individuals, both adolescents, and adults, experiencing trauma and PTSD, depression, and anxiety utilizing various modalities including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy), CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I also have experience working with serious mental illness and substance use. It would be an honor to walk with you through your pain to assist you in finding healing, breaking generational trauma, and learning how to love yourself again.
(859) 648-2409 View (859) 648-2409
Photo of Kimberly Paul, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Hodgenville, KY
Kimberly Paul
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd , LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40204
Hi, I'm Kimmie, an LPCC in the state of KY. The bulk of my work up until this point has been with children, adolescents/teens, and families. I have previously worked in community mental health and therapeutic foster care, and have now transitioned to working in private practice seeing clients of all ages and stages of development. Typically I help support clients who are struggling with interpersonal relationship issues, family system issues, neurodivergent and developmental issues, depression, anxiety, and complications caused by complex trauma.
Hi, I'm Kimmie, an LPCC in the state of KY. The bulk of my work up until this point has been with children, adolescents/teens, and families. I have previously worked in community mental health and therapeutic foster care, and have now transitioned to working in private practice seeing clients of all ages and stages of development. Typically I help support clients who are struggling with interpersonal relationship issues, family system issues, neurodivergent and developmental issues, depression, anxiety, and complications caused by complex trauma.
(502) 317-2499 View (502) 317-2499
Photo of Denise R Myers, Counselor in Hodgenville, KY
Denise R Myers
Counselor, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
Different people need different things at different times in their lives. For the most part, my style is person-centered, which feels more like two friends talking. We take the time to get to know one another, your unique interests and what makes you tick. We utilize this information to personally tailor our time together.
Different people need different things at different times in their lives. For the most part, my style is person-centered, which feels more like two friends talking. We take the time to get to know one another, your unique interests and what makes you tick. We utilize this information to personally tailor our time together.
(859) 800-6125 View (859) 800-6125

See more therapy options for Hodgenville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hodgenville, KY

< 10

Therapists in Hodgenville, KY who prioritize treating:

57% Relationship Issues
57% Depression
57% Anxiety
57% Grief
43% ADHD
43% Trauma and PTSD
43% Divorce

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Hodgenville, KY see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Hodgenville?

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.