Therapists in Woodbury, MN

Photo of Melvin Cheatem, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Melvin Cheatem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Woodbury, MN 55125
Congratulations! You have taken an action step in your healing journey, which was seeking support! My name is Melvin, and I specialize in working with youth and young adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, school avoidance/refusal, and communication challenges. I strive to create a warm, safe & non-judgmental space, that creates a sense of acceptance and belonging.
Congratulations! You have taken an action step in your healing journey, which was seeking support! My name is Melvin, and I specialize in working with youth and young adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, school avoidance/refusal, and communication challenges. I strive to create a warm, safe & non-judgmental space, that creates a sense of acceptance and belonging.
(651) 867-2837 View (651) 867-2837
Photo of Beth Saunders, Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Beth Saunders
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there.
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there.
(952) 522-5704 View (952) 522-5704
Photo of Marissa Ellis - Marissa Ellis, PsyD: Therapy, Adults, CBT, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Marissa Ellis, PsyD: Therapy, Adults, CBT
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Life's unpredictability and challenges can lead to uncertainty, fear, and stress. Many clients who seek my psychotherapy services experience stress, anxiety, or depression, often stemming from life transitions, grief, or struggles with interpersonal relationships and self-identity. Whether they are new to therapy or have tried it before, clients may feel apprehensive about continuing their healing journey. In our sessions, clients find a welcoming, supportive, and comfortable environment where they feel understood and heard. I utilize evidence-based therapy strategies to guide them through this process.
Life's unpredictability and challenges can lead to uncertainty, fear, and stress. Many clients who seek my psychotherapy services experience stress, anxiety, or depression, often stemming from life transitions, grief, or struggles with interpersonal relationships and self-identity. Whether they are new to therapy or have tried it before, clients may feel apprehensive about continuing their healing journey. In our sessions, clients find a welcoming, supportive, and comfortable environment where they feel understood and heard. I utilize evidence-based therapy strategies to guide them through this process.
(651) 899-8906 View (651) 899-8906
Photo of Jenny Beall, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Jenny Beall
Counselor, MA, LPCC
13 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
(651) 560-0050 View (651) 560-0050
Photo of Travis Michaels, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC
Travis Michaels
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting Same Week Clients! • I’m a direct, compassionate therapist with nearly 20 years of experience helping people cut through the noise and actually feel better. • No fluff, no clichés. Just honest conversation, practical tools, and evidence-based therapy that works. I create a space that’s safe, inclusive, and tailored to you. • Whether you’re stuck, anxious, burned out, or just over it all, we’ll figure it out together. • Therapy doesn’t have to be awkward. • You deserve to feel in control and live your best life, and I’m here to help you get there. • So, let's make real change happen; with clarity, humor, and zero judgment.
Accepting Same Week Clients! • I’m a direct, compassionate therapist with nearly 20 years of experience helping people cut through the noise and actually feel better. • No fluff, no clichés. Just honest conversation, practical tools, and evidence-based therapy that works. I create a space that’s safe, inclusive, and tailored to you. • Whether you’re stuck, anxious, burned out, or just over it all, we’ll figure it out together. • Therapy doesn’t have to be awkward. • You deserve to feel in control and live your best life, and I’m here to help you get there. • So, let's make real change happen; with clarity, humor, and zero judgment.
(651) 384-0253 View (651) 384-0253
Photo of Traci Astrid Valentine - Valentine Counseling Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Valentine Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I provide a warm and supportive atmosphere where individuals can express their feelings, communicate their problems, and feel understood. I emphasize that when a client is living in a secure state of mind, they will be able to locate solutions to any problem. I recognize and encourage each individual to understand their innate potential for change and growth. The therapeutic process can be challenging and at times uncomfortable, but I will walk this journey with you, asking the hard questions, listening intently, and exploring perspectives. I hope that you will contact me when you are ready to venture into this wonderful new place.
I provide a warm and supportive atmosphere where individuals can express their feelings, communicate their problems, and feel understood. I emphasize that when a client is living in a secure state of mind, they will be able to locate solutions to any problem. I recognize and encourage each individual to understand their innate potential for change and growth. The therapeutic process can be challenging and at times uncomfortable, but I will walk this journey with you, asking the hard questions, listening intently, and exploring perspectives. I hope that you will contact me when you are ready to venture into this wonderful new place.
(651) 212-4638 View (651) 212-4638
Photo of Jeff Rocker - Rocker Health LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Ph.D, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Rocker Health LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Ph.D, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Woodbury, MN 55125
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(651) 615-1935 View (651) 615-1935
Photo of Amy L. Serna - Amy Serna, PsyD, CCW, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, CCW
Amy Serna, PsyD, CCW
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, CCW
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Do you feel like you are having a difficult time with life's stressors, or are feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel as though you are constantly worrying and have a difficult time controlling it? Do you feel others do not hear what you are trying to say to them? Are there times when connecting or trusting others is hard? Many individuals have these experiences, and it is important to know you are not alone. I am here to provide the support you need to get through the difficulties in life. I am accepting clients in Minnesota from age eight through adulthood for individual, couples, and family in-person or Telehealth therapy.
Do you feel like you are having a difficult time with life's stressors, or are feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel as though you are constantly worrying and have a difficult time controlling it? Do you feel others do not hear what you are trying to say to them? Are there times when connecting or trusting others is hard? Many individuals have these experiences, and it is important to know you are not alone. I am here to provide the support you need to get through the difficulties in life. I am accepting clients in Minnesota from age eight through adulthood for individual, couples, and family in-person or Telehealth therapy.
(651) 661-3561 View (651) 661-3561
Photo of Heidi Siefker-Pexa, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Heidi Siefker-Pexa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Are you feeling unseen, unheard, or stuck in a difficult relationship? Maybe you’re drained, alone, or find yourself repeating old patterns—tolerating disrespect and struggling to say “no” when you need to. Many of my clients come to me overwhelmed by conflict, mistrust, or painful communication problems, often unsure how to find their voice or set healthy boundaries. I offer care through a Christian lens, if desired, drawing on Christ’s teachings to guide our work and help you find hope, clarity, and strength for healthier relationships.
Are you feeling unseen, unheard, or stuck in a difficult relationship? Maybe you’re drained, alone, or find yourself repeating old patterns—tolerating disrespect and struggling to say “no” when you need to. Many of my clients come to me overwhelmed by conflict, mistrust, or painful communication problems, often unsure how to find their voice or set healthy boundaries. I offer care through a Christian lens, if desired, drawing on Christ’s teachings to guide our work and help you find hope, clarity, and strength for healthier relationships.
(651) 272-2316 View (651) 272-2316
Photo of Beth Lutz, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Beth Lutz
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Woodbury, MN 55125
Whether you’re facing issues you’ve struggled with for many years, or you’ve experienced more recent difficulties or life changes, please know this: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. So often, we suffer far too long by waiting to ask for help, thinking we need to fix things on our own, or feeling as if things will never get better. Taking that first step in reaching out for help can feel intimidating, but it can also lead to renewed hope and the beginning of healing.
Whether you’re facing issues you’ve struggled with for many years, or you’ve experienced more recent difficulties or life changes, please know this: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. So often, we suffer far too long by waiting to ask for help, thinking we need to fix things on our own, or feeling as if things will never get better. Taking that first step in reaching out for help can feel intimidating, but it can also lead to renewed hope and the beginning of healing.
(651) 419-5751 x837 View (651) 419-5751 x837
Photo of Matt Miller Schwer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Matt Miller Schwer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I welcome a racially and demographically diverse clientele of adults, including members of the LGBTQ community, for individual psychotherapy. I have been working with people struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family strife, sleep disturbances, and life transition stress for over 15 years. My clients want better lives for themselves, to be able to live comfortably and freely day to day, and to have the lives they dream of for themselves.
I welcome a racially and demographically diverse clientele of adults, including members of the LGBTQ community, for individual psychotherapy. I have been working with people struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family strife, sleep disturbances, and life transition stress for over 15 years. My clients want better lives for themselves, to be able to live comfortably and freely day to day, and to have the lives they dream of for themselves.
(651) 615-3375 View (651) 615-3375
Photo of Rachel Surratt, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Rachel Surratt
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Woodbury, MN 55125
Spring/ Summer 2026: Accepting Clients to Waitlist — Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, or are having difficulty in your interpersonal relationships? Has your sense of self been rocked by the recent years of hardship and strife? I want to help you carry the load of existing and healing with supportive tools and empathy. I work closely with folks that are actively interested in understanding themselves and the others in their lives. All I ask is that you come to therapy with a drive to improve and are ready to take a holistic look at your life!
Spring/ Summer 2026: Accepting Clients to Waitlist — Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, or are having difficulty in your interpersonal relationships? Has your sense of self been rocked by the recent years of hardship and strife? I want to help you carry the load of existing and healing with supportive tools and empathy. I work closely with folks that are actively interested in understanding themselves and the others in their lives. All I ask is that you come to therapy with a drive to improve and are ready to take a holistic look at your life!
(651) 410-1822 View (651) 410-1822
Photo of Lindsey Crumpton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Lindsey Crumpton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Do you often feel unheard, misunderstood, or underappreciated? Do you feel disconnected from others? Longing for a place to belong? I want to offer you a space to feel safe, understood, and supported. Finding our voice in this world can be difficult without the tools and community to support us through. I'd like to join you while on this healing journey to not only help you find your strength but to help you discover your worth.
Do you often feel unheard, misunderstood, or underappreciated? Do you feel disconnected from others? Longing for a place to belong? I want to offer you a space to feel safe, understood, and supported. Finding our voice in this world can be difficult without the tools and community to support us through. I'd like to join you while on this healing journey to not only help you find your strength but to help you discover your worth.
(651) 564-7203 x103 View (651) 564-7203 x103
Photo of Emily Mueller, Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS, LADC
Emily Mueller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS, LADC
Woodbury, MN 55125
Are you someone needing extra support and structure over summer break? I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults navigating depressive symptoms, anxiety, grief, ADHD management, substance use, and the challenge of maintaining structure when daily routines shift. Together, we identify patterns in thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, develop coping strategies, and set realistic goals that feel achievable and empowering. I’m a clinician who practices from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused, and client-centered perspective, offering practical tools and meaningful insights that lead to lasting change.
Are you someone needing extra support and structure over summer break? I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults navigating depressive symptoms, anxiety, grief, ADHD management, substance use, and the challenge of maintaining structure when daily routines shift. Together, we identify patterns in thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, develop coping strategies, and set realistic goals that feel achievable and empowering. I’m a clinician who practices from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused, and client-centered perspective, offering practical tools and meaningful insights that lead to lasting change.
(651) 316-2412 View (651) 316-2412
Photo of Charles Kaltenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Charles Kaltenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, I’m Charles Kaltenberg, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) serving clients in Wisconsin and Minnesota through virtual therapy. With 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy and emotionally focused therapy to support clients struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and more.
Hi, I’m Charles Kaltenberg, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) serving clients in Wisconsin and Minnesota through virtual therapy. With 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy and emotionally focused therapy to support clients struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and more.
(651) 349-4146 View (651) 349-4146
Photo of Kristi Bushinski, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kristi Bushinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Woodbury, MN 55125
I work with individuals, couples and families in helping them to feel understood, while empowering them toward more effective patterns of thinking, feeling and interacting.
I work with individuals, couples and families in helping them to feel understood, while empowering them toward more effective patterns of thinking, feeling and interacting.
(651) 433-6019 View (651) 433-6019
Photo of Tara Michelle Dahlager - Family Frameworks, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Family Frameworks, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I am a mental health therapist, specializing in working with youth and adults experiencing anxiety, mood, and other disorders of regulation. I have been in private practice for 21 years. I have been a school social worker for 32 years, thus I have experience in both the clinical and school settings. I believe in working from a strengths perspective, building on my clients' assets, and learning resiliency skills in addressing the challenges they face. I provide psycho-education in understanding how the different parts of the brain impact our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and strategies to become healthy emotionally and physically.
I am a mental health therapist, specializing in working with youth and adults experiencing anxiety, mood, and other disorders of regulation. I have been in private practice for 21 years. I have been a school social worker for 32 years, thus I have experience in both the clinical and school settings. I believe in working from a strengths perspective, building on my clients' assets, and learning resiliency skills in addressing the challenges they face. I provide psycho-education in understanding how the different parts of the brain impact our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and strategies to become healthy emotionally and physically.
(612) 260-6977 View (612) 260-6977
Photo of Halaina Christensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Halaina Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I have experience working with adolescents and adults. I strive to develop a safe and trusting relationship as I believe it's the foundation of successful psychotherapy. I take a holistic approach to working with my clients in the therapy room. I practice from a strengths-based framework and believe that one cannot be treated in isolation, but rather within the family and environmental systems they engage with every day. I believe in the importance of meeting you exactly where you are at, and providing an empathic, non-judgmental space for you to process through your experiences.
Welcome! I have experience working with adolescents and adults. I strive to develop a safe and trusting relationship as I believe it's the foundation of successful psychotherapy. I take a holistic approach to working with my clients in the therapy room. I practice from a strengths-based framework and believe that one cannot be treated in isolation, but rather within the family and environmental systems they engage with every day. I believe in the importance of meeting you exactly where you are at, and providing an empathic, non-judgmental space for you to process through your experiences.
(651) 661-5765 View (651) 661-5765
Photo of Amanda Boraas, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Amanda Boraas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Waitlist for new clients
I offer one-on-one individual mental health counseling services for adults to work towards internal healing. I use a variety of interventions to enhance internal resources to face everyday life challenges. I focus on assisting clients build insight, acknowledge and understand repressed emotions, repair emotional wounds, and restore one's self worth.
I offer one-on-one individual mental health counseling services for adults to work towards internal healing. I use a variety of interventions to enhance internal resources to face everyday life challenges. I focus on assisting clients build insight, acknowledge and understand repressed emotions, repair emotional wounds, and restore one's self worth.
(651) 504-3934 View (651) 504-3934
Photo of Michael Proebstle, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Michael Proebstle
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
Hurting, anxious, confused, sad, broken trust, feeling lost? Not feeling okay? HOPE can be found here for your life and struggles with anger, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or other problems we all face from time to time. Hope, peace, and healing in the midst of your pain can be found through a compassionate experience in therapy. Working on my own hurts including loss and attachment issues, I know there is hope for peace, recovery and healing despite deep wounds from the past. I love watching people's lives transform from hurt to hope, chaos to peace. Regardless of your struggles, abundant peace is awaiting you.
Hurting, anxious, confused, sad, broken trust, feeling lost? Not feeling okay? HOPE can be found here for your life and struggles with anger, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or other problems we all face from time to time. Hope, peace, and healing in the midst of your pain can be found through a compassionate experience in therapy. Working on my own hurts including loss and attachment issues, I know there is hope for peace, recovery and healing despite deep wounds from the past. I love watching people's lives transform from hurt to hope, chaos to peace. Regardless of your struggles, abundant peace is awaiting you.
(612) 712-6967 View (612) 712-6967

See more therapy options for Woodbury

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Woodbury, MN

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Woodbury, MN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Self Esteem
76% Trauma and PTSD
74% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
60% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% HealthPartners of MN and WI
79% Aetna

How Therapists in Woodbury, MN see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Woodbury?

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.