Therapists in Midland, MI

Photo of Martina Ricards Marks (Big Sky Wellness), LMSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martina Ricards Marks (Big Sky Wellness)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
If you're seeking a therapist who blends empathy, practicality, and a touch of uniqueness, you've found your match. My therapeutic style is not just about sessions; it's about building a genuine and heartfelt connection. I'm committed to understanding your challenges and aspirations. As a yoga teacher, reiki practitioner, and clinical social worker, I offer a holistic approach to wellness that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Together, we'll create a space where you feel seen, heard, and truly understood, and of course - establish a partnership that brings meaningful change.
If you're seeking a therapist who blends empathy, practicality, and a touch of uniqueness, you've found your match. My therapeutic style is not just about sessions; it's about building a genuine and heartfelt connection. I'm committed to understanding your challenges and aspirations. As a yoga teacher, reiki practitioner, and clinical social worker, I offer a holistic approach to wellness that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Together, we'll create a space where you feel seen, heard, and truly understood, and of course - establish a partnership that brings meaningful change.
(989) 644-9349 View (989) 644-9349
Photo of Breakwater Therapy Services, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breakwater Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48642  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a safe, empathetic space to discuss your feelings and learn strategies to help empower your mental health journey? As a mental health therapist, I recognize that sometimes life can feel overwhelming. If you are you experiencing feelings of stress, worry, or hopelessness, I provide a compassionate space, where we will work together developing a personalized mental health plan, helping you thrive. As a licensed clinical social worker, my focus is to support adolescents and adults experiencing feelings and behaviors of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions.
Are you seeking a safe, empathetic space to discuss your feelings and learn strategies to help empower your mental health journey? As a mental health therapist, I recognize that sometimes life can feel overwhelming. If you are you experiencing feelings of stress, worry, or hopelessness, I provide a compassionate space, where we will work together developing a personalized mental health plan, helping you thrive. As a licensed clinical social worker, my focus is to support adolescents and adults experiencing feelings and behaviors of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions.
(989) 312-8698 View (989) 312-8698
Photo of Cara Schade, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Schade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
Life can be difficult to navigate. Current times can be full of confusion, worries and sadness. Daily demands leave us feeling troubled and hopeless. Imagine finding balance, renewed joy and optimism. Discovering a feeling of contentment, ease in tasks, satisfaction in your relationships, hope for your future, and restored sense of purpose in aspects of your life. I have been practicing as a therapist since 2003 and have experience working with adults with various concerns. It may be depression, anxiety, managing life transition, or trauma that brings you to therapy.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Current times can be full of confusion, worries and sadness. Daily demands leave us feeling troubled and hopeless. Imagine finding balance, renewed joy and optimism. Discovering a feeling of contentment, ease in tasks, satisfaction in your relationships, hope for your future, and restored sense of purpose in aspects of your life. I have been practicing as a therapist since 2003 and have experience working with adults with various concerns. It may be depression, anxiety, managing life transition, or trauma that brings you to therapy.
(989) 762-1795 View (989) 762-1795
Photo of Allyn Richards, PhD , Psychologist
Allyn Richards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640  (Online Only)
Life gets messy, and you may feel as though you’ve lost parts of yourself along the way. While you may appear as though you have it “all together,” inside you are filled with anxiety, discontentment, and feelings that you’re not enough. You may feel restless and burnt out from the constant internal pressure to stay busy, please others, achieve, or change your body. You feel at constant war with your mind and your body, leaving you feeling disconnected from your needs, your relationships, and your life. You may sense that the ways in which you’ve tried to control these feelings isn't working, but you're not sure how to move forward.
Life gets messy, and you may feel as though you’ve lost parts of yourself along the way. While you may appear as though you have it “all together,” inside you are filled with anxiety, discontentment, and feelings that you’re not enough. You may feel restless and burnt out from the constant internal pressure to stay busy, please others, achieve, or change your body. You feel at constant war with your mind and your body, leaving you feeling disconnected from your needs, your relationships, and your life. You may sense that the ways in which you’ve tried to control these feelings isn't working, but you're not sure how to move forward.
(989) 259-9362 View (989) 259-9362
Photo of Carol Ann Robinson - Carol Robinson, MA, LPC Counseling Services, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Robinson, MA, LPC Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
I have 22 years experience in working with adults, teens (13+), couples and families. Counseling is a means for an individual, couple or family to take charge of their lives. My role is to advocate for the changes that you decide on making. Counseling is a team effort! I am committed to helping you reach your goals and direct you to other resources if/as needed. Empowerment, growth and change can all be accomplished though counseling.
I have 22 years experience in working with adults, teens (13+), couples and families. Counseling is a means for an individual, couple or family to take charge of their lives. My role is to advocate for the changes that you decide on making. Counseling is a team effort! I am committed to helping you reach your goals and direct you to other resources if/as needed. Empowerment, growth and change can all be accomplished though counseling.
(989) 567-4479 View (989) 567-4479
Photo of Denise Hoffman, LMSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
Life can present us with challenges that feel overwhelming. Whether it's navigating the complexities of relationships, coping with the loss of a loved one, or facing the impact of major life changes, you deserve support on your journey. My approach to counseling is tailored to address your unique needs and goals. I understand that seeking help is a courageous step, and I'm here to provide a compassionate and understanding space for you to explore and overcome the challenges that life has thrown your way.
Life can present us with challenges that feel overwhelming. Whether it's navigating the complexities of relationships, coping with the loss of a loved one, or facing the impact of major life changes, you deserve support on your journey. My approach to counseling is tailored to address your unique needs and goals. I understand that seeking help is a courageous step, and I'm here to provide a compassionate and understanding space for you to explore and overcome the challenges that life has thrown your way.
(989) 999-7398 View (989) 999-7398
Photo of Anxiety And Trauma Therapist Sondra Kern, MA, LPC, CCATP, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anxiety And Trauma Therapist Sondra Kern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
Do you ever find your thoughts overwhelming, preventing you from engaging in activities you desire? Anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem can intrude on our daily experiences, dreams and relationships. My goal is to empower my clients to pursue their aspirations without being hindered by fear or shame. I enjoy assisting clients from diverse backgrounds in achieving their personal definitions of success. True growth occurs when we have the freedom to authentically express ourselves. I use various therapeutic approaches, including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), CBT, ACT and DBT to support my clients.
Do you ever find your thoughts overwhelming, preventing you from engaging in activities you desire? Anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem can intrude on our daily experiences, dreams and relationships. My goal is to empower my clients to pursue their aspirations without being hindered by fear or shame. I enjoy assisting clients from diverse backgrounds in achieving their personal definitions of success. True growth occurs when we have the freedom to authentically express ourselves. I use various therapeutic approaches, including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), CBT, ACT and DBT to support my clients.
(989) 455-8256 View (989) 455-8256
Photo of Elizabeth Scott - Elizabeth Scott The Women's Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA-PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Scott The Women's Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA-PA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
It's wonderful that you're embarking on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth! Similar to how women consult an OBGYN for female-specific issues, I am a psychotherapist specializing in mental health and life issues unique to women. My expertise encompasses how hormonal changes, gestational periods, various life stages, widowhood, singlehood, career challenges, relationships, motherhood, caregiving responsibilities, personal identity, or grief and loss impact personality, behavior, decisions, impulsivity, and love.
It's wonderful that you're embarking on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth! Similar to how women consult an OBGYN for female-specific issues, I am a psychotherapist specializing in mental health and life issues unique to women. My expertise encompasses how hormonal changes, gestational periods, various life stages, widowhood, singlehood, career challenges, relationships, motherhood, caregiving responsibilities, personal identity, or grief and loss impact personality, behavior, decisions, impulsivity, and love.
(989) 625-9800 View (989) 625-9800
Photo of Lauren Masud Visuri, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Masud Visuri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48642
Sometimes life throws us challenges that we are not ready or prepared to face. Whether you are dealing with obsessive thoughts, past trauma, confidence or self-esteem issues, anxiety or big life changes, I am a safe space and a sounding board. I work with all ages and stages of life. If you’re ready for a change I am your therapist. Your voice, thoughts and feelings will always be the center of our sessions. You matter. You are not alone. You deserve to be happy.
Sometimes life throws us challenges that we are not ready or prepared to face. Whether you are dealing with obsessive thoughts, past trauma, confidence or self-esteem issues, anxiety or big life changes, I am a safe space and a sounding board. I work with all ages and stages of life. If you’re ready for a change I am your therapist. Your voice, thoughts and feelings will always be the center of our sessions. You matter. You are not alone. You deserve to be happy.
(989) 200-4660 View (989) 200-4660
Photo of Dr. Jill Trager, Psy D, Psychologist
Dr. Jill Trager
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640  (Online Only)
I am a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist and a member of the American Psychological Association with over 25 years of experience in my field. For the majority of these years, I worked out of my private-practice office in Midland, MI where I provided a wide range of mental health services to individuals diverse in age, as well as, ethnicity and lifestyle. I offered in-person services until my spouse & I relocated to Northern MI in 2022, necessitating a transition to my current, virtual-only practice in order to cont. serving my existing clients. I love what I do and reconsider it a privilege to be entrusted with my clients' care
I am a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist and a member of the American Psychological Association with over 25 years of experience in my field. For the majority of these years, I worked out of my private-practice office in Midland, MI where I provided a wide range of mental health services to individuals diverse in age, as well as, ethnicity and lifestyle. I offered in-person services until my spouse & I relocated to Northern MI in 2022, necessitating a transition to my current, virtual-only practice in order to cont. serving my existing clients. I love what I do and reconsider it a privilege to be entrusted with my clients' care
(989) 270-0835 View (989) 270-0835
Photo of Terri Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640
Feeling like there's something holding you back from reaching your full potential? Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to offer a faith-based approach to mental health that integrates psychological insight with Christian values. At Eternal Hope Christian Counseling, we understand that true well-being comes from aligning your mental health journey with your faith. Our supportive environment combines evidence-based practices with Christ-centered principles to promote lasting change.
Feeling like there's something holding you back from reaching your full potential? Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to offer a faith-based approach to mental health that integrates psychological insight with Christian values. At Eternal Hope Christian Counseling, we understand that true well-being comes from aligning your mental health journey with your faith. Our supportive environment combines evidence-based practices with Christ-centered principles to promote lasting change.
(989) 601-3476 View (989) 601-3476
Photo of Teresa J Lynch - Success Behavioral Health, PhD, LP, CCHT, CMHIMP, Psychologist
Success Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CCHT, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48642
You are on your way to better health and we can help by ​providing evidence-based and ​innovative psychological services focusing ​on the ​Mind-Body Health Connection. I treat the whole person by addressing the individual difficulties being faced, particularly when illness occurs.
You are on your way to better health and we can help by ​providing evidence-based and ​innovative psychological services focusing ​on the ​Mind-Body Health Connection. I treat the whole person by addressing the individual difficulties being faced, particularly when illness occurs.
(989) 268-2804 View (989) 268-2804
Photo of Charra Grist, MA, LPC, Counselor
Charra Grist
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
Hi, my name is Charra. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), offering in-person and virtual (phone, telehealth) mental health services in Michigan. I provide support for those coping with childhood abuse, trauma, PTSD, codependency, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence, and grief and loss. I am also passionate about working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hi, my name is Charra. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), offering in-person and virtual (phone, telehealth) mental health services in Michigan. I provide support for those coping with childhood abuse, trauma, PTSD, codependency, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence, and grief and loss. I am also passionate about working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
(989) 683-4351 View (989) 683-4351
Photo of Alisha Patt, MA, LLC, Counselor
Alisha Patt
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48642
I am a Michigan Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) providing in-person and virtual mental health services to individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, adjustment issues due to life transitions or self-esteem issues.
I am a Michigan Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) providing in-person and virtual mental health services to individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, adjustment issues due to life transitions or self-esteem issues.
(989) 439-9745 View (989) 439-9745
Photo of Andrea Hilliker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Hilliker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to therapy. You've taken the first step to find a safe space to explore the problems you're facing. I operate a quiet private practice, engaging clients with compassion, respect, and open-mindedness. I believe clients are the experts of their lives and I am a helper on their journey. Through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, I begin the therapy process by teaching and establishing coping skills to assist my clients in calming chaotic thoughts and emotions. We'll move on to challenge thoughts that are no longer helpful; and establish a sense of calm and self-efficacy.
Welcome to therapy. You've taken the first step to find a safe space to explore the problems you're facing. I operate a quiet private practice, engaging clients with compassion, respect, and open-mindedness. I believe clients are the experts of their lives and I am a helper on their journey. Through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, I begin the therapy process by teaching and establishing coping skills to assist my clients in calming chaotic thoughts and emotions. We'll move on to challenge thoughts that are no longer helpful; and establish a sense of calm and self-efficacy.
(947) 600-4915 View (947) 600-4915
Photo of Andrea Prince, LPC, EMDR, EFT, Counselor
Andrea Prince
Counselor, LPC, EMDR, EFT
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640
I cater to individuals as young as three years old. Recognizing the need for change can be daunting, and I empathize with the challenges of taking the first step. I am wholeheartedly dedicated to providing unwavering support, meeting you at your current stage, and ensuring responsibility as we work towards our shared objectives. Your thoughts, emotions, and actions hold immense significance, and I am committed to guiding you through the journey of positive transformation you desire. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
I cater to individuals as young as three years old. Recognizing the need for change can be daunting, and I empathize with the challenges of taking the first step. I am wholeheartedly dedicated to providing unwavering support, meeting you at your current stage, and ensuring responsibility as we work towards our shared objectives. Your thoughts, emotions, and actions hold immense significance, and I am committed to guiding you through the journey of positive transformation you desire. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
(989) 447-4565 View (989) 447-4565
Photo of Jodi Grimaldi, MDiv, LMFT, RP, CCTP, EMDR-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jodi Grimaldi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT, RP, CCTP, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48642
Life stages and transitions bring with them many joys, challenges and uncertainties. Mental, emotional and spiritual obstacles often leave us stuck or prevent us from fully realizing the joy and peace we desire in life. Are you familiar with feelings of despair, hopelessness, anxiety, confusion and self-doubt among others? Do your children or adolescents struggle in this way? Are you experiencing a difficult time moving forward? My objective in therapy is to validate your experience as an individual, couple or family. Through practical learnings and education, I will work alongside you to provide hope and help toward healing.
Life stages and transitions bring with them many joys, challenges and uncertainties. Mental, emotional and spiritual obstacles often leave us stuck or prevent us from fully realizing the joy and peace we desire in life. Are you familiar with feelings of despair, hopelessness, anxiety, confusion and self-doubt among others? Do your children or adolescents struggle in this way? Are you experiencing a difficult time moving forward? My objective in therapy is to validate your experience as an individual, couple or family. Through practical learnings and education, I will work alongside you to provide hope and help toward healing.
(989) 296-2461 View (989) 296-2461
Photo of Amy McDonald, MA, LPC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
You may be struggling with understanding why you are unable to connect intimately with your partner(s) or struggling with sexual difficulties following cancer or childbirth. Have you experienced religious based shame around sexuality? Have you experienced trauma that has left an impact on your emotional, sexual, and relational functioning? You are not alone! When we can find and operate from our authentic self, we can form meaningful relationships and heal and recover from traumatic experiences.
You may be struggling with understanding why you are unable to connect intimately with your partner(s) or struggling with sexual difficulties following cancer or childbirth. Have you experienced religious based shame around sexuality? Have you experienced trauma that has left an impact on your emotional, sexual, and relational functioning? You are not alone! When we can find and operate from our authentic self, we can form meaningful relationships and heal and recover from traumatic experiences.
(810) 638-9041 View (810) 638-9041
Photo of Elizabeth Davis, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640
Whether you are experiencing relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, identity challenges, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. I see children (along with their families), adults, and couples.
Whether you are experiencing relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, identity challenges, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. I see children (along with their families), adults, and couples.
(989) 514-2271 View (989) 514-2271
Photo of New Pathways Counseling Services - New Pathways Counseling Services, LLC, LLC, Counselor
New Pathways Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, LLC
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640
New Pathways founders Jennifer Werries, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, EMDR Certified and Thomas Parella, PhD, LPC, and strive to deliver caring, effective treatment in a warm and welcoming environment. Working with a therapist can be a great way to gain new perspectives, explore new options and solutions that may have eluded us, and find ways of getting "unstuck" from situations in which we may have felt helpless. At New Pathways, we view counseling as a collaboration between therapist and client, who work together to understand issues, clarify thoughts and feelings, establish goals, and find ways to achieve a better quality of life.
New Pathways founders Jennifer Werries, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, EMDR Certified and Thomas Parella, PhD, LPC, and strive to deliver caring, effective treatment in a warm and welcoming environment. Working with a therapist can be a great way to gain new perspectives, explore new options and solutions that may have eluded us, and find ways of getting "unstuck" from situations in which we may have felt helpless. At New Pathways, we view counseling as a collaboration between therapist and client, who work together to understand issues, clarify thoughts and feelings, establish goals, and find ways to achieve a better quality of life.
(855) 789-4929 View (855) 789-4929

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Midland, MI

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Midland, MI who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
91% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Coping Skills
74% Self Esteem
70% Stress
67% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
52% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Midland, MI see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
10% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Midland?

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.