Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

View neighborhoods in Indianapolis
Photo of Emily Kirschbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Emily Kirschbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Not accepting new clients
First, I want to commend you on the brave thing you have done simply by searching here. You have reached out for help. This is an incredible source of strength that I am already proud of you for. My favorite people to work with are those who know that they are not currently living their truest and most beautiful life and are tired of it. They want to understand why and how to get there. I hope that in my office you will find growth and healing as we work together to help you identify areas in which you need support, can break unhealthy patterns, and learn important tools to make your life and relationships more fulfilling.
First, I want to commend you on the brave thing you have done simply by searching here. You have reached out for help. This is an incredible source of strength that I am already proud of you for. My favorite people to work with are those who know that they are not currently living their truest and most beautiful life and are tired of it. They want to understand why and how to get there. I hope that in my office you will find growth and healing as we work together to help you identify areas in which you need support, can break unhealthy patterns, and learn important tools to make your life and relationships more fulfilling.
(317) 434-0439 View (317) 434-0439
Photo of Mary Suzanne Janke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Mary Suzanne Janke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you've experienced a traumatic medical event personally, as a caregiver, or as a healthcare provider, the impact can deeply affect your emotional well-being. Feelings like sadness, fear, guilt, and grief may dominate your daily life, accompanied by intrusive thoughts and recurring nightmares that replay again and again. As a result, you may find yourself withdrawing, losing interest in activities you once loved, struggling with focus at work, or feeling increasingly irritable. Or perhaps you don't necessarily feel that you've experienced "trauma" but you're exhausted, and need to find your way back to really living again.
Whether you've experienced a traumatic medical event personally, as a caregiver, or as a healthcare provider, the impact can deeply affect your emotional well-being. Feelings like sadness, fear, guilt, and grief may dominate your daily life, accompanied by intrusive thoughts and recurring nightmares that replay again and again. As a result, you may find yourself withdrawing, losing interest in activities you once loved, struggling with focus at work, or feeling increasingly irritable. Or perhaps you don't necessarily feel that you've experienced "trauma" but you're exhausted, and need to find your way back to really living again.
(317) 793-3613 View (317) 793-3613
Photo of Renee Heldman, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Renee Heldman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
My ideal client would be someone who is geared towards helping themselves and needing guidance on how to do so. Someone who has a grasp on the importance of the client putting in the work to truly help heal themselves but needing assistance ensuring they are doing things in a healthy and emotionally intelligent fashion. Talk therapy is very important for clients who even just want to come and vent, which I believe helps the mind unclutter.
My ideal client would be someone who is geared towards helping themselves and needing guidance on how to do so. Someone who has a grasp on the importance of the client putting in the work to truly help heal themselves but needing assistance ensuring they are doing things in a healthy and emotionally intelligent fashion. Talk therapy is very important for clients who even just want to come and vent, which I believe helps the mind unclutter.
(317) 386-7481 View (317) 386-7481
Photo of Lydia Banton, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Lydia Banton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46203  (Online Only)
Lydia is a master’s level psychotherapist (LMHC), licensed addictions counselor (LAC), and EMDR trained with a passion for working in integrative mental health. She considers herself a therapist who thoroughly enjoys hearing the stories of others and educating them on how to view their stories as journeys to victory over past adversities as they move on to reach goals previously thought unattainable.
Lydia is a master’s level psychotherapist (LMHC), licensed addictions counselor (LAC), and EMDR trained with a passion for working in integrative mental health. She considers herself a therapist who thoroughly enjoys hearing the stories of others and educating them on how to view their stories as journeys to victory over past adversities as they move on to reach goals previously thought unattainable.
(463) 227-0539 View (463) 227-0539
Photo of Sue Ellen Stolkin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Sue Ellen Stolkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
As a therapist, I am always respectful and nonjudgmental. I hold on to the belief that change is possible even when my clients are less optimistic. I continue to study and learn. I have found that my clients can be my best teachers..   The ability to make changes begins with a safe environment. That is my job to provide for you. As the trust continues to grow, together we will work on whatever presents itself. Everyone comes with their own story and that is what makes this work so special.
As a therapist, I am always respectful and nonjudgmental. I hold on to the belief that change is possible even when my clients are less optimistic. I continue to study and learn. I have found that my clients can be my best teachers..   The ability to make changes begins with a safe environment. That is my job to provide for you. As the trust continues to grow, together we will work on whatever presents itself. Everyone comes with their own story and that is what makes this work so special.
(317) 961-7513 View (317) 961-7513
Photo of Romunda Valentine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Romunda Valentine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46208
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to make you feel "complete"...so whatever that is, I'm here to help. I work to help you alter, improve, and uplift the challenges you may be facing. Helping you to manage depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, family conflict, to name a few, is the key to a more positive outlook and a way to leave the past behind. Each person is unique, so each person has their own set of goals to be developed. Each person requires their own personal approach. I can help you by also assisting with connections that can go beyond therapy so that all of your stated needs are addressed.
My goal is to make you feel "complete"...so whatever that is, I'm here to help. I work to help you alter, improve, and uplift the challenges you may be facing. Helping you to manage depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, family conflict, to name a few, is the key to a more positive outlook and a way to leave the past behind. Each person is unique, so each person has their own set of goals to be developed. Each person requires their own personal approach. I can help you by also assisting with connections that can go beyond therapy so that all of your stated needs are addressed.
(317) 680-7669 View (317) 680-7669
Photo of Suzanne Coyle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Suzanne Coyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46208
Enabling individuals, couples, and families to make meaning out of their life stories is my main goal. Focusing on the meaning of your relationships can enrich your life. I enjoy working with couples as well as famiies of all sort--families of procreation, adoption, and choice. In addition to counseling, I consult with family businesses, non-profits, and congregations. In my role as Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Christian Theological Seminary, I supervise students to move toward their licensure as therapists. I provide private supervision and coaching on a limited basis through my credential as an AAMFT Approved Supervisor.
Enabling individuals, couples, and families to make meaning out of their life stories is my main goal. Focusing on the meaning of your relationships can enrich your life. I enjoy working with couples as well as famiies of all sort--families of procreation, adoption, and choice. In addition to counseling, I consult with family businesses, non-profits, and congregations. In my role as Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Christian Theological Seminary, I supervise students to move toward their licensure as therapists. I provide private supervision and coaching on a limited basis through my credential as an AAMFT Approved Supervisor.
(317) 622-0871 View (317) 622-0871
Photo of Sujata Ghate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Sujata Ghate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Have you been lonely, frustrated and insecure for far too long? Does it seem impossible to be happy, motivated and confident to take on new challenges? We all go through tough seasons of change in life, in which we blame ourselves, and ruminate in our own anxious or depressive spirals that ultimately hold us back. I'm here to improve that through healing from the past, embracing change, identifying strengths that were always there, as well as gain new confidence. I use a variety of evidence based approaches to therapy to clients grow through challenging seasons into confident people once again.
Have you been lonely, frustrated and insecure for far too long? Does it seem impossible to be happy, motivated and confident to take on new challenges? We all go through tough seasons of change in life, in which we blame ourselves, and ruminate in our own anxious or depressive spirals that ultimately hold us back. I'm here to improve that through healing from the past, embracing change, identifying strengths that were always there, as well as gain new confidence. I use a variety of evidence based approaches to therapy to clients grow through challenging seasons into confident people once again.
(317) 548-6410 View (317) 548-6410
Photo of Lisa M Bellamy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Lisa M Bellamy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Stuck? Are life challenges from your past or current life stressors impacting your daily living? Maybe to the point where you just do not have the energy to do the things you want to do or challenges that are preventing you from enjoying your best life.
Stuck? Are life challenges from your past or current life stressors impacting your daily living? Maybe to the point where you just do not have the energy to do the things you want to do or challenges that are preventing you from enjoying your best life.
(317) 204-8950 View (317) 204-8950
Photo of Tabitha Glenn in Indianapolis, IN
Tabitha Glenn
MsPsy, TFCBT, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46254
Life gets hard, Life gets difficult, and at times, you may feel like everything you're doing is wrong. I am here to tell you that we all have our times where we feel this way and YOU CAN and WILL get through it. I am a mental & behavioral health provider and life coach with an extensive background in domestic violence, depression, anxiety, sexually abusive youth, play therapy, and much more. My focus is to provide services to families and individuals of all ages, from various communities who have found life's challenges to be overwhelming. UYS Hotline is available for 45-minute flat rate consultation 317-440-1696/no commitment.
Life gets hard, Life gets difficult, and at times, you may feel like everything you're doing is wrong. I am here to tell you that we all have our times where we feel this way and YOU CAN and WILL get through it. I am a mental & behavioral health provider and life coach with an extensive background in domestic violence, depression, anxiety, sexually abusive youth, play therapy, and much more. My focus is to provide services to families and individuals of all ages, from various communities who have found life's challenges to be overwhelming. UYS Hotline is available for 45-minute flat rate consultation 317-440-1696/no commitment.
(765) 217-4188 x46254 View (765) 217-4188 x46254
Photo of Ethany Michaud, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Ethany Michaud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Waitlist for new clients
Many of my clients have experienced some sort of trauma in their lives. Others are going through life transitions such as relationship difficulties, grief reactions, hopelessness, panic attacks, trouble focusing and other work/life stressors just to name a few. If you identify with any of these and/or are finding it difficult to enjoy life then you have come to the right place. No matter what it is that you are dealing with, we can work together as a team to help you start feeling better! Call or text our office manager at 317-992-1919 to get set up.
Many of my clients have experienced some sort of trauma in their lives. Others are going through life transitions such as relationship difficulties, grief reactions, hopelessness, panic attacks, trouble focusing and other work/life stressors just to name a few. If you identify with any of these and/or are finding it difficult to enjoy life then you have come to the right place. No matter what it is that you are dealing with, we can work together as a team to help you start feeling better! Call or text our office manager at 317-992-1919 to get set up.
(317) 676-9694 View (317) 676-9694
Photo of Megan Passaloukos, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Megan Passaloukos
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible, offers an opportunity for growth, and there is always hope for a better future. I have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. I offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In a safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet your individualized needs and goals.
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible, offers an opportunity for growth, and there is always hope for a better future. I have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. I offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In a safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet your individualized needs and goals.
(317) 699-8354 View (317) 699-8354
Photo of Gina Cerimele, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Gina Cerimele
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
You really can have a life of abundance, peace and joy! I can help you move beyond old beliefs and routines that block you from maximizing your potential. Maybe you want to make some minor tweaks in your life, or maybe you want to make some big changes. I CAN HELP! Over the years, I have used many modalities to help people create the lives they want to live. I am comfortable working with individuals as well as married and unmarried couples from all walks of life. If you are ready to maximize your potential, give me a call so we can get started!
You really can have a life of abundance, peace and joy! I can help you move beyond old beliefs and routines that block you from maximizing your potential. Maybe you want to make some minor tweaks in your life, or maybe you want to make some big changes. I CAN HELP! Over the years, I have used many modalities to help people create the lives they want to live. I am comfortable working with individuals as well as married and unmarried couples from all walks of life. If you are ready to maximize your potential, give me a call so we can get started!
(317) 891-5632 View (317) 891-5632
Photo of Ama Ronke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Ama Ronke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and clinical hypnotherapist specializing in life success for all ages. The more you look into the darkness, the lighter it becomes. This is my life statement. I have seen the darkest times, and the worst of times, and have experienced personal failures in life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and clinical hypnotherapist specializing in life success for all ages. The more you look into the darkness, the lighter it becomes. This is my life statement. I have seen the darkest times, and the worst of times, and have experienced personal failures in life.
(317) 527-4564 View (317) 527-4564
Photo of Kathleen Brannen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Kathleen Brannen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the ups and downs of life? Whether you're grappling with loss, battling stress, or facing significant life changes, you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Whether this is your first time talking with someone or a return to therapy, I'll meet you where you are on your life journey. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges and pursue personal growth. Together, we'll work towards healing, empowerment, and authenticity.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the ups and downs of life? Whether you're grappling with loss, battling stress, or facing significant life changes, you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Whether this is your first time talking with someone or a return to therapy, I'll meet you where you are on your life journey. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges and pursue personal growth. Together, we'll work towards healing, empowerment, and authenticity.
(463) 243-5844 View (463) 243-5844
Photo of Jennifer Lindsey Caruana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Jennifer Lindsey Caruana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46217
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, my ideal client would be someone that is willing; willing to attend sessions regularly, willing to try new things, willing to engage and willing to explore their concerns. With that being said, I believe I am tasked with creating an environment that is safe for my clients to be able to show up and feel they can become vulnerable with me. Otherwise, I encourage my clients to come as they are with whatever concerns they have and we will work together to improve on their goals.
As a therapist, my ideal client would be someone that is willing; willing to attend sessions regularly, willing to try new things, willing to engage and willing to explore their concerns. With that being said, I believe I am tasked with creating an environment that is safe for my clients to be able to show up and feel they can become vulnerable with me. Otherwise, I encourage my clients to come as they are with whatever concerns they have and we will work together to improve on their goals.
(463) 220-4268 View (463) 220-4268
Photo of Jessica L. McVey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Jessica L. McVey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
You are embarking the journey of therapy, a decision of strength and courage. I am an EMDR Consultant, and I specialize in treating trauma, generalized anxiety, panic, obsessive and/or negative thinking, depression, decreased self esteem and other associated conditions. I enjoy working alongside clients experiencing a variety of life transitions, adults seeking to gain a deeper understanding of family dynamics and themselves or are transitioning into new adult roles or within their family, and those who are seeking goals of finding meaning and purpose, as well as clients with general stressors
You are embarking the journey of therapy, a decision of strength and courage. I am an EMDR Consultant, and I specialize in treating trauma, generalized anxiety, panic, obsessive and/or negative thinking, depression, decreased self esteem and other associated conditions. I enjoy working alongside clients experiencing a variety of life transitions, adults seeking to gain a deeper understanding of family dynamics and themselves or are transitioning into new adult roles or within their family, and those who are seeking goals of finding meaning and purpose, as well as clients with general stressors
(317) 576-3685 View (317) 576-3685
Photo of Sarah Nevin, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Sarah Nevin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I work with people who want to move from emotional pain, conflict or confusion toward more happiness, peace and passion in their life, work, and relationships. Together, we'll learn to observe repeating life patterns and examine how the past might be influencing your present and future. Our work together can also help you discover and strengthen the creative, emotional, and intuitive resources that can lead you toward more passionate, fulfilling life.
I work with people who want to move from emotional pain, conflict or confusion toward more happiness, peace and passion in their life, work, and relationships. Together, we'll learn to observe repeating life patterns and examine how the past might be influencing your present and future. Our work together can also help you discover and strengthen the creative, emotional, and intuitive resources that can lead you toward more passionate, fulfilling life.
(317) 662-2862 View (317) 662-2862
Photo of Dawn of a Brighter Today, LLC, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Dawn of a Brighter Today, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46237
I have been active in the mental health field for over 20 years. I believe that therapy is a process that focuses on balance in all areas of life. My practice has been open for 12 years and continues to grow. I work primarily with teenagers and young adults but also see adults and families. Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Borderline Personality Disorder and trauma. My framework of therapy is based off of DBT principles.
I have been active in the mental health field for over 20 years. I believe that therapy is a process that focuses on balance in all areas of life. My practice has been open for 12 years and continues to grow. I work primarily with teenagers and young adults but also see adults and families. Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Borderline Personality Disorder and trauma. My framework of therapy is based off of DBT principles.
(317) 671-7673 View (317) 671-7673
Photo of Mary Slowiak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Mary Slowiak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46205  (Online Only)
When we have been through difficult things, oftentimes we feel misunderstood, unheard, unsafe and hopeless. I do not believe that trauma makes us stronger; rather, I believe that there is something beautiful within us that brings us through the trauma. Trauma processing allows us to let go of negative beliefs about ourselves and the world; beliefs such as “I am not safe,” or “I am unlovable.” These beliefs can make us feel stuck; like having a rich and full life is not possible. As your therapist, I will work to empower you to accept all parts of self, allowing for peace from within that will trickle into all facets of life.
When we have been through difficult things, oftentimes we feel misunderstood, unheard, unsafe and hopeless. I do not believe that trauma makes us stronger; rather, I believe that there is something beautiful within us that brings us through the trauma. Trauma processing allows us to let go of negative beliefs about ourselves and the world; beliefs such as “I am not safe,” or “I am unlovable.” These beliefs can make us feel stuck; like having a rich and full life is not possible. As your therapist, I will work to empower you to accept all parts of self, allowing for peace from within that will trickle into all facets of life.
(463) 465-5830 View (463) 465-5830

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Indianapolis, IN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
66% Relationship Issues
65% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Anthem | Elevance
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Indianapolis, IN see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Indianapolis?

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.