Therapists in Cedar Springs, MI

Photo of Lisa El Alam, LMSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa El Alam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Cedar Springs, MI 49319  (Online Only)
My name is Lisa El-Alam, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker - Clinical. I have worked with various populations, however, mostly with Veterans. I have advanced Trauma Training and am CCTP-II certified. I have experience working with Trauma survivors on all levels, to include, Combat Traumas, other Military Trauma, Sexual Trauma's, Childhood Trauma, domestic abuse. I also have worked with individuals struggling with Anxiety, Depression, grief & loss, along with Couples and relationship stress.
My name is Lisa El-Alam, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker - Clinical. I have worked with various populations, however, mostly with Veterans. I have advanced Trauma Training and am CCTP-II certified. I have experience working with Trauma survivors on all levels, to include, Combat Traumas, other Military Trauma, Sexual Trauma's, Childhood Trauma, domestic abuse. I also have worked with individuals struggling with Anxiety, Depression, grief & loss, along with Couples and relationship stress.
(616) 681-5440 View (616) 681-5440
Photo of Tracy A Zavala, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy A Zavala
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
We all have times when we need help with getting through the challenges of life. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, other mental health concerns; or perhaps parenting a child with emotional and behavioral concerns, I am glad to help. I have twenty plus years of experience working with individuals and families in settings including: partial hospitalization, preschool, juvenile court, adolescent residential treatment, nonprofit organizations and community mental health. Contact me to discuss your needs and how I may best assist you, or your child/family.
We all have times when we need help with getting through the challenges of life. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, other mental health concerns; or perhaps parenting a child with emotional and behavioral concerns, I am glad to help. I have twenty plus years of experience working with individuals and families in settings including: partial hospitalization, preschool, juvenile court, adolescent residential treatment, nonprofit organizations and community mental health. Contact me to discuss your needs and how I may best assist you, or your child/family.
(616) 414-3186 View (616) 414-3186
Photo of Victoria Braun, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Braun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319  (Online Only)
Families have a uniquely complex dynamic. As a parent, connecting with kids can be a struggle and attempting to guide them can feel impossible. As a teen and young adult, sometimes you can't wait to be out on your own; for others the thought of the adult world is terrifying. No matter which of these situation you fall under, my job is to help you feel comfortable talking about the tough "stuff." I have worked with clients of all ages in navigating through life's challenges.
Families have a uniquely complex dynamic. As a parent, connecting with kids can be a struggle and attempting to guide them can feel impossible. As a teen and young adult, sometimes you can't wait to be out on your own; for others the thought of the adult world is terrifying. No matter which of these situation you fall under, my job is to help you feel comfortable talking about the tough "stuff." I have worked with clients of all ages in navigating through life's challenges.
(616) 512-0627 View (616) 512-0627
Photo of Kathy Rebh, LPC, MA, Counselor
Kathy Rebh
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
Hello, I'm Kathy and I am a fully licensed professional counselor in Michigan. My specialty is anxiety and depression but I also enjoy work with individuals experiencing transitional issues. I offer counseling for clients from adolescence through adulthood. I am also able to do evaluation and assessments for anxiety and depression.
Hello, I'm Kathy and I am a fully licensed professional counselor in Michigan. My specialty is anxiety and depression but I also enjoy work with individuals experiencing transitional issues. I offer counseling for clients from adolescence through adulthood. I am also able to do evaluation and assessments for anxiety and depression.
(616) 952-2517 View (616) 952-2517
Photo of Gary Watson - Turnabout Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turnabout Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
Ready for real, positive change? I'm Gary Watson, a licensed therapist specializing in Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). With 27 years of experience, I help individuals and couples identify strengths and create actionable solutions for stress, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions. My approach is goal-oriented, focusing on the future rather than the past. 
SFT is practical and efficient, often leading to positive results in just a few sessions. We'll collaborate on setting clear, achievable goals to help you move forward confidently. I'll help you set easy, do-able actions you can take to make the changes you're looking for.
Ready for real, positive change? I'm Gary Watson, a licensed therapist specializing in Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). With 27 years of experience, I help individuals and couples identify strengths and create actionable solutions for stress, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions. My approach is goal-oriented, focusing on the future rather than the past. 
SFT is practical and efficient, often leading to positive results in just a few sessions. We'll collaborate on setting clear, achievable goals to help you move forward confidently. I'll help you set easy, do-able actions you can take to make the changes you're looking for.
(616) 227-4896 View (616) 227-4896
Photo of Deena Iris Cantu, LLP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deena Iris Cantu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
I work well with clients seeking help for problems with anxiety and depression. Those referred to me with these issues find that symptomatically they are struggling with panic, sleep disturbances, worry thoughts, self-defeating thoughts/behaviors, eating disorders,addictions and unknowingly, at times, some of their difficulties have been attached to old trauma. Many people with these sorts of struggles find that this spills over into problems with relationships and/or functioning at work and school. Areas of intimacy, both emotional and sexual are important work also. I work with individuals, married couples,families, and groups.
I work well with clients seeking help for problems with anxiety and depression. Those referred to me with these issues find that symptomatically they are struggling with panic, sleep disturbances, worry thoughts, self-defeating thoughts/behaviors, eating disorders,addictions and unknowingly, at times, some of their difficulties have been attached to old trauma. Many people with these sorts of struggles find that this spills over into problems with relationships and/or functioning at work and school. Areas of intimacy, both emotional and sexual are important work also. I work with individuals, married couples,families, and groups.
(616) 965-2049 View (616) 965-2049
Photo of Heather Renee Hess, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Heather Renee Hess
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
The decision to work with a mental health professional can seem overwhelming. My purpose as a psychologist is to help you feel as comfortable and safe as possible so that you are empowered to initiate the changes you want for your life. In a collaborative environment, I strive to help you navigate hurts of the past, deal with stressors of the present, and outline your future goals. Whether you are dealing with depression, trauma, hopelessness, racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, relationship issues, or other concerns, I provide a trusting relationship in a judgement free atmosphere where I can help you achieve wellness.
The decision to work with a mental health professional can seem overwhelming. My purpose as a psychologist is to help you feel as comfortable and safe as possible so that you are empowered to initiate the changes you want for your life. In a collaborative environment, I strive to help you navigate hurts of the past, deal with stressors of the present, and outline your future goals. Whether you are dealing with depression, trauma, hopelessness, racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, relationship issues, or other concerns, I provide a trusting relationship in a judgement free atmosphere where I can help you achieve wellness.
(616) 201-3244 View (616) 201-3244
Photo of Marci Gleason, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marci Gleason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
Do you often feel overwhelmed with daily life? Difficulty managing and maintaining relationships or work/life balance? Struggling to feel on track with life? My clinical interests include working with individuals coping with anxiety, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, parents of young children, ADHD, stress management, life transitions, self-esteem and relationship related issues including boundary setting and communication skills.
Do you often feel overwhelmed with daily life? Difficulty managing and maintaining relationships or work/life balance? Struggling to feel on track with life? My clinical interests include working with individuals coping with anxiety, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, parents of young children, ADHD, stress management, life transitions, self-esteem and relationship related issues including boundary setting and communication skills.
(616) 545-8565 View (616) 545-8565
Photo of Ashley K. Castro, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley K. Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety or feeling depressed? Are family or life difficulties leaving you stressed? Are you feeling burned out? Have you experienced trauma? I believe we all need a supportive space to be open without judgement as we talk through our thoughts and feelings and process stress. I'd love to help support you with these or other concerns such as relationship issues, job stresses and faith related difficulties. Working together we will work toward peace and personal growth for a more vibrant life through mental wellness, stress management and healthy boundaries. Request an appointment at www.ashleycastrolmsw.com
Are you struggling with anxiety or feeling depressed? Are family or life difficulties leaving you stressed? Are you feeling burned out? Have you experienced trauma? I believe we all need a supportive space to be open without judgement as we talk through our thoughts and feelings and process stress. I'd love to help support you with these or other concerns such as relationship issues, job stresses and faith related difficulties. Working together we will work toward peace and personal growth for a more vibrant life through mental wellness, stress management and healthy boundaries. Request an appointment at www.ashleycastrolmsw.com
(616) 201-3192 View (616) 201-3192
Photo of Sue Glover, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Glover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
Life can be challenging and wonderful at the same time. There are so many ups and downs and sometimes you just want someone to listen and remind you that you are going to be okay. We can’t always control what happens to us, but we can learn how to live our best life despite the difficult times. I want to help you reach your goals and discover your best life. I am a graduate of Loyola University Chicago with a B.S. in Psychology. I am a fully licensed clinical social worker with my Master’s degree from Grand Valley State University.
Life can be challenging and wonderful at the same time. There are so many ups and downs and sometimes you just want someone to listen and remind you that you are going to be okay. We can’t always control what happens to us, but we can learn how to live our best life despite the difficult times. I want to help you reach your goals and discover your best life. I am a graduate of Loyola University Chicago with a B.S. in Psychology. I am a fully licensed clinical social worker with my Master’s degree from Grand Valley State University.
(616) 208-5876 View (616) 208-5876
Photo of Savannah Beezhold, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Savannah Beezhold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
Hi and welcome. My name is Savannah and my passion is to partner with people as they work to find their inner strength, discover personal resolutions, and cope with life’s ever many changes and difficulties. I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions/adjustments, self-esteem, and women's issues.
Hi and welcome. My name is Savannah and my passion is to partner with people as they work to find their inner strength, discover personal resolutions, and cope with life’s ever many changes and difficulties. I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions/adjustments, self-esteem, and women's issues.
(616) 816-4295 View (616) 816-4295
Photo of Kate Vannier, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Vannier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience. I strive to create a warm and trusting environment to empower my clients and help facilitate positive change and growth.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience. I strive to create a warm and trusting environment to empower my clients and help facilitate positive change and growth.
(616) 947-3221 View (616) 947-3221

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heather Duthler, LMSW, CAADC, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Duthler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
Verified Verified
Sparta, MI 49345
I have years of experience working in West Michigan and am looking forward to working with you. Counseling can provide insight into anxiety, depression and stress. It can also help you navigate big decisions in your life. No matter what you are dealing with, I'm confident we can work together to find a solution. If unable to bill through insurance, I offer very reasonable self pay rates. Please call or message me to discuss. I apologize in advance, but I do not provide letters for emotional support animals (ESA's). Please note, I do not have any evening appointments available.
I have years of experience working in West Michigan and am looking forward to working with you. Counseling can provide insight into anxiety, depression and stress. It can also help you navigate big decisions in your life. No matter what you are dealing with, I'm confident we can work together to find a solution. If unable to bill through insurance, I offer very reasonable self pay rates. Please call or message me to discuss. I apologize in advance, but I do not provide letters for emotional support animals (ESA's). Please note, I do not have any evening appointments available.
(616) 512-0056 View (616) 512-0056
Photo of August Crowley, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
August Crowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, MI 49341
I work with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-regulation, and more. I tend to work with a lot of neurodivergent folks, those with ADHD, Autism, and OCD. I enjoy working with folks to find their calm, their space where they can be themselves authentically, and the happiest they can be with themselves. I provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I have worked with folks of all ages, races, sexual-orientations, genders, etc. and I provide a space of safety and empathy. The number one importance in this therapy experience is the client in my chair and how they feel about themselves.
I work with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-regulation, and more. I tend to work with a lot of neurodivergent folks, those with ADHD, Autism, and OCD. I enjoy working with folks to find their calm, their space where they can be themselves authentically, and the happiest they can be with themselves. I provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I have worked with folks of all ages, races, sexual-orientations, genders, etc. and I provide a space of safety and empathy. The number one importance in this therapy experience is the client in my chair and how they feel about themselves.
(616) 439-2903 View (616) 439-2903
Photo of Jamie Wilson, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jamie Wilson
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rockford, MI 49341
Not feel like yourself? Tired of overthinking? Feel like stress is taking a toll on your life? Anxiety and depression affect most people at some point during their lifetime, the pandemic has likely increased the statistic exponentially. Counseling is a great place to have an unbiased support person who only wants you to succeed, whether that's by learning new coping skills, talking through a difficult decision, learning about the brain or new psychology research to help you function better.
Not feel like yourself? Tired of overthinking? Feel like stress is taking a toll on your life? Anxiety and depression affect most people at some point during their lifetime, the pandemic has likely increased the statistic exponentially. Counseling is a great place to have an unbiased support person who only wants you to succeed, whether that's by learning new coping skills, talking through a difficult decision, learning about the brain or new psychology research to help you function better.
(616) 200-6043 View (616) 200-6043
Photo of Brian J Seely, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian J Seely
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sparta, MI 49345
I have been in private practice since 1992. Prior to earning my doctorate in clinical psychology, I was an elementary school teacher for seven years. About 70 percent of my current practice is with children and teens and 30 percent with adults, families, and couples. I absolutely love my vocation! I am privileged to join people on their journeys, to meet them where they are and go from there. I am committed to partnering with my patients to help them reach their full potential. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship.
I have been in private practice since 1992. Prior to earning my doctorate in clinical psychology, I was an elementary school teacher for seven years. About 70 percent of my current practice is with children and teens and 30 percent with adults, families, and couples. I absolutely love my vocation! I am privileged to join people on their journeys, to meet them where they are and go from there. I am committed to partnering with my patients to help them reach their full potential. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship.
(616) 432-2517 View (616) 432-2517
Photo of Michelle M Muenzenmeyer - Michelle Muenzenmeyer, MA, LLP, CMHC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Michelle Muenzenmeyer
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, MI 49341
Do you find yourself setting the same goals without achieving them? In the pain and suffering, there is opportunity for growth and change. You've taken a step forward by looking into treatment, congratulations! I offer a trusting and compassionate approach to allow my clients to feel vulnerable with their struggles. I have worked with clients who have suffered with depression, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, life stage changes, obesity, binge eating and more. At the end of treatment, some clients report feeling more resilient with painful emotions which leads to healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.
Do you find yourself setting the same goals without achieving them? In the pain and suffering, there is opportunity for growth and change. You've taken a step forward by looking into treatment, congratulations! I offer a trusting and compassionate approach to allow my clients to feel vulnerable with their struggles. I have worked with clients who have suffered with depression, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, life stage changes, obesity, binge eating and more. At the end of treatment, some clients report feeling more resilient with painful emotions which leads to healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.
(616) 788-2795 View (616) 788-2795
Photo of Amy L Jarchow, PhD, Psychologist
Amy L Jarchow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockford, MI 49341
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Having a hard time communicating effectively with others? Making the decision to seek professional help is a difficult task. I am hoping that this information helps you in making that decision. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have worked in private practice since earning my PhD in 2004. I enjoy my job immensely and I work diligently to provide a comfortable, open environment for my clients with an emphasis on collaboration. We will work together to try to reach your goals so you can ultimately enjoy a better quality of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Having a hard time communicating effectively with others? Making the decision to seek professional help is a difficult task. I am hoping that this information helps you in making that decision. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have worked in private practice since earning my PhD in 2004. I enjoy my job immensely and I work diligently to provide a comfortable, open environment for my clients with an emphasis on collaboration. We will work together to try to reach your goals so you can ultimately enjoy a better quality of life.
(616) 458-0692 View (616) 458-0692
Photo of Jordan Gregory, PsyD, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jordan Gregory
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rockford, MI 49341
Like all people at some point in life, you may be in a place where you're suffering, feeling lost, or just looking for a place to talk. When things become overwhelming, it can help to have a space to process. If this describes you, I would love to meet you! I have worked with individuals across diverse backgrounds and age ranges. Most commonly, I have worked with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, family struggles, relationship stress, and life transitions.
Like all people at some point in life, you may be in a place where you're suffering, feeling lost, or just looking for a place to talk. When things become overwhelming, it can help to have a space to process. If this describes you, I would love to meet you! I have worked with individuals across diverse backgrounds and age ranges. Most commonly, I have worked with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, family struggles, relationship stress, and life transitions.
(616) 693-5615 View (616) 693-5615
Photo of Gary Watson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gary Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, MI 49341
Sad, Worried, and Stubborn Teenagers; Rocky Relationships; Worried Parents; and Stressed Individuals. These are the people I help. You probably already know what the problem is and what you don’t want anymore. You don’t want to be sad, you don’t want to be in this rut, or you're tired of arguing with your teenager or spouse about the same things over and over. Trying to solve it yourself can be like trying to eat a huge pizza that hasn’t been cut into slices-- it's overwhelming and you don’t know where to start. My job is to help you break the solution into pieces so you can decide where to start and what your next steps are.
Sad, Worried, and Stubborn Teenagers; Rocky Relationships; Worried Parents; and Stressed Individuals. These are the people I help. You probably already know what the problem is and what you don’t want anymore. You don’t want to be sad, you don’t want to be in this rut, or you're tired of arguing with your teenager or spouse about the same things over and over. Trying to solve it yourself can be like trying to eat a huge pizza that hasn’t been cut into slices-- it's overwhelming and you don’t know where to start. My job is to help you break the solution into pieces so you can decide where to start and what your next steps are.
(616) 548-6138 View (616) 548-6138

See more therapy options for Cedar Springs

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cedar Springs, MI

10+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Cedar Springs, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Self Esteem
92% Coping Skills
92% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
67% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Priority Health
90% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Cedar Springs, MI see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cedar Springs?

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.