Therapists in Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO

Photo of Mara Colbert, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mara Colbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
I am an EMDR certified therapist, counselor, and yoga teacher specializing in mindfulness-based interventions for healing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I began my counseling career with a background of nearly 20 years teaching yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to groups and individuals. I integrate the tools and techniques of yoga practice and theory with more traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, and IFS in order to treat people holistically - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
I am an EMDR certified therapist, counselor, and yoga teacher specializing in mindfulness-based interventions for healing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I began my counseling career with a background of nearly 20 years teaching yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to groups and individuals. I integrate the tools and techniques of yoga practice and theory with more traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, and IFS in order to treat people holistically - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
(816) 307-2952 View (816) 307-2952
Photo of Megan L Bartlow, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Megan L Bartlow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
It can be overwhelmingly scary to know where to begin in your healing journey. Wounds can build upon one another until it all feels like a tangled mess. Childhood and family wounds can dictate the lens in which you see the world. Looking through that lens can be complex and difficult to navigate alone. Whether the symptoms you are experiencing are affecting your current circumstances, creating self-worth issues or relationship difficulties, I love to meet you where you are at, and help you develop goals that lead to a fulfilling life.
It can be overwhelmingly scary to know where to begin in your healing journey. Wounds can build upon one another until it all feels like a tangled mess. Childhood and family wounds can dictate the lens in which you see the world. Looking through that lens can be complex and difficult to navigate alone. Whether the symptoms you are experiencing are affecting your current circumstances, creating self-worth issues or relationship difficulties, I love to meet you where you are at, and help you develop goals that lead to a fulfilling life.
(816) 209-1289 View (816) 209-1289
Photo of Alex Ratzlaff, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Alex Ratzlaff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
I help adults who feel stuck in guilt, shame, and emotional overwhelm build self-trust and move forward with clarity. My goal is to help clients unpack the protective patterns that once served them but now feel limiting, building awareness and choice. My work is trauma- and shame-informed, helping you approach change with compassion rather than judgment. I also bring insight from my background in athletics as a former athlete and current coach to support those balancing performance, identity, and life transitions.
I help adults who feel stuck in guilt, shame, and emotional overwhelm build self-trust and move forward with clarity. My goal is to help clients unpack the protective patterns that once served them but now feel limiting, building awareness and choice. My work is trauma- and shame-informed, helping you approach change with compassion rather than judgment. I also bring insight from my background in athletics as a former athlete and current coach to support those balancing performance, identity, and life transitions.
(816) 297-0887 View (816) 297-0887
Photo of Elliott Ashton Seymour, Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Elliott Ashton Seymour
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
My clients are real people with real issues like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship problems, grief, unbearable family interactions, news fatigue, social media burnout, FOMO, emotional overwhelm, issues related to sexual orientation, and much much more. My clients want to talk and be heard by someone that is not going to judge them. Someone who will listen with compassion and interest. I offer in-person sessions in the Kansas City area and I offer telehealth services in Missouri.
My clients are real people with real issues like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship problems, grief, unbearable family interactions, news fatigue, social media burnout, FOMO, emotional overwhelm, issues related to sexual orientation, and much much more. My clients want to talk and be heard by someone that is not going to judge them. Someone who will listen with compassion and interest. I offer in-person sessions in the Kansas City area and I offer telehealth services in Missouri.
(816) 551-2485 View (816) 551-2485
Photo of Maddi Worley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Maddi Worley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Have you been feeling stuck in the same relationship or behavioral patterns you’ve been repeating for years? Perhaps you can see the pattern clearly but still feel unsure how to create real, lasting change. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. I believe therapy works best when you feel truly heard. In our work together, my goal is to approach you with genuine compassion and curiosity, not judgment or criticism. I seek to cultivate a space where you can show up as your full self and share your whole story. Change becomes possible when you feel safe enough to explore what’s been hurting, without pressure to “fix” yourself.
Have you been feeling stuck in the same relationship or behavioral patterns you’ve been repeating for years? Perhaps you can see the pattern clearly but still feel unsure how to create real, lasting change. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. I believe therapy works best when you feel truly heard. In our work together, my goal is to approach you with genuine compassion and curiosity, not judgment or criticism. I seek to cultivate a space where you can show up as your full self and share your whole story. Change becomes possible when you feel safe enough to explore what’s been hurting, without pressure to “fix” yourself.
(816) 693-2162 View (816) 693-2162
Photo of Kiley Deatherage, MA, PLPC
Kiley Deatherage
Verified Verified
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I believe that every child and family deserves a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported. My approach is collaborative and compassionate—I work alongside children and families to process emotions, build understanding, and develop healthy, effective coping skills that last. With nine years of experience working in schools, I understand how challenges can show up in both home and academic settings. In my private practice, I strive to create a nurturing environment where growth feels possible and where each person’s unique strengths are honored.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I believe that every child and family deserves a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported. My approach is collaborative and compassionate—I work alongside children and families to process emotions, build understanding, and develop healthy, effective coping skills that last. With nine years of experience working in schools, I understand how challenges can show up in both home and academic settings. In my private practice, I strive to create a nurturing environment where growth feels possible and where each person’s unique strengths are honored.
(816) 323-8384 View (816) 323-8384
Photo of Morgan Brueseke, Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC, NCC
Morgan Brueseke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Life is unpredictable, it's messy. Life is about learning skills that can help us tackle the big obstacles when they are thrown our way. It's important to have someone to lean on as we grow through personal struggles, and that is where I can help. Primarily, I work with female identifying clients 17+ who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, trauma, and overall life stressors.
Life is unpredictable, it's messy. Life is about learning skills that can help us tackle the big obstacles when they are thrown our way. It's important to have someone to lean on as we grow through personal struggles, and that is where I can help. Primarily, I work with female identifying clients 17+ who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, trauma, and overall life stressors.
(816) 852-8063 View (816) 852-8063
Photo of Andrew J. Bell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Andrew J. Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
You love Jesus, you're smart, and you try to live life on purpose. And you feel stuck. You desire life to be characterized by love, joy, peace, beauty, awe, and a compelling purpose, but it feels marked by anxiety, mistrust, loneliness, depression, and shame. You might have some old wounds that seem unwilling to heal, or maybe you've got unwanted behaviors that refuse to go away. Maybe you lack the language to describe your dis-ease. I would love to partner with you to bring clarity to your experience and help you find your way through suffering into flourishing.
You love Jesus, you're smart, and you try to live life on purpose. And you feel stuck. You desire life to be characterized by love, joy, peace, beauty, awe, and a compelling purpose, but it feels marked by anxiety, mistrust, loneliness, depression, and shame. You might have some old wounds that seem unwilling to heal, or maybe you've got unwanted behaviors that refuse to go away. Maybe you lack the language to describe your dis-ease. I would love to partner with you to bring clarity to your experience and help you find your way through suffering into flourishing.
(816) 750-5618 View (816) 750-5618
Photo of Katrina Stoddard, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
Katrina Stoddard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
2 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
(816) 656-3947 View (816) 656-3947
Photo of Kimberly Wallace-Young, Psychologist, PhD
Kimberly Wallace-Young
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
I sincerely trust in an individual’s ability to heal, even from profound pain and trauma. In addition, I understand the importance of healing the relationship space as well. My practice focuses on intimacy and connection with otherss, as well as a wide range of psychological concerns, such as, but not limited to: anxiety, recovery following illness (eg. cancer, autoimmune disorders, stroke) or medical trauma (eg, life threatening diagnosis, or lack of regard by providers), deconstruction of old beliefs, pain with intercourse, sexual dysfunction, and grief. I also make it a sincere priority to be aligned with the LGBTQIA community.
I sincerely trust in an individual’s ability to heal, even from profound pain and trauma. In addition, I understand the importance of healing the relationship space as well. My practice focuses on intimacy and connection with otherss, as well as a wide range of psychological concerns, such as, but not limited to: anxiety, recovery following illness (eg. cancer, autoimmune disorders, stroke) or medical trauma (eg, life threatening diagnosis, or lack of regard by providers), deconstruction of old beliefs, pain with intercourse, sexual dysfunction, and grief. I also make it a sincere priority to be aligned with the LGBTQIA community.
(816) 208-8307 View (816) 208-8307
Photo of Heather Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Heather Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
I believe that each person has inherent strengths to overcome life's challenges, and therapy can help you tap into these qualities. In addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, or strained relationships, I can help you identify your goals and work towards them, in a warm and accepting environment.
I believe that each person has inherent strengths to overcome life's challenges, and therapy can help you tap into these qualities. In addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, or strained relationships, I can help you identify your goals and work towards them, in a warm and accepting environment.
(816) 281-1389 View (816) 281-1389
Photo of Jennifer Cooper Nobo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Jennifer Cooper Nobo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
4 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Do you look like you have it together, but secretly feel like you’re falling behind? You’re a people pleaser in a constant state of almost having your life figured out, while also feeling like everything's on the edge of falling apart. You say yes when you want to say no, overextend yourself to avoid letting anyone down, and feel guilty prioritizing your own needs. Maybe you were the mature one growing up and felt like you had to be the one to hold it all together. Now you struggle to know the difference between the bare minimum and perfectionism - and are burnt out.
Do you look like you have it together, but secretly feel like you’re falling behind? You’re a people pleaser in a constant state of almost having your life figured out, while also feeling like everything's on the edge of falling apart. You say yes when you want to say no, overextend yourself to avoid letting anyone down, and feel guilty prioritizing your own needs. Maybe you were the mature one growing up and felt like you had to be the one to hold it all together. Now you struggle to know the difference between the bare minimum and perfectionism - and are burnt out.
(816) 227-6542 View (816) 227-6542
Photo of Rachel Bichara, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Rachel Bichara
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Hey there! I'm grateful for the chance to get to know you and create an environment where you feel safe to be authentic and vulnerable. Therapy isn't always easy, but it can be such a transformative and rewarding process. I will do everything I can to get to know you and figure out what approach will work best for you!
Hey there! I'm grateful for the chance to get to know you and create an environment where you feel safe to be authentic and vulnerable. Therapy isn't always easy, but it can be such a transformative and rewarding process. I will do everything I can to get to know you and figure out what approach will work best for you!
(913) 583-0554 View (913) 583-0554
Photo of Alexandria Fortenbery, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alexandria Fortenbery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Being a human can be tough and life gets heavy sometimes, but you don't have to do it alone. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, I can help you process these complicated feelings and find a way forward.
Being a human can be tough and life gets heavy sometimes, but you don't have to do it alone. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, I can help you process these complicated feelings and find a way forward.
(816) 744-6098 View (816) 744-6098
Photo of Kindra Jackel - Kindra Jackel, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Kindra Jackel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
4 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
One of my joys in life is witnessing growth and change. And being part of another's journey is an honor and privilege. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, and difficulty managing emotions. In addition, I enjoy helping clients with career and phase of life issues.
One of my joys in life is witnessing growth and change. And being part of another's journey is an honor and privilege. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, and difficulty managing emotions. In addition, I enjoy helping clients with career and phase of life issues.
(816) 425-2342 View (816) 425-2342
Photo of Jessica Carter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Jessica Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas. I have worked with adolescents in crisis and suffering from addictions since 2000. I have worked with adults and veterans with Co-occurring Disorders and trauma since 2006. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, addictions, and grief and loss issues. I utilize Cognitive Processing Theory, EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Enhancement Theory, and Solution Focused to help individuals identify and cope with mental health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas. I have worked with adolescents in crisis and suffering from addictions since 2000. I have worked with adults and veterans with Co-occurring Disorders and trauma since 2006. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, addictions, and grief and loss issues. I utilize Cognitive Processing Theory, EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Theory, Mindfulness, Motivational Enhancement Theory, and Solution Focused to help individuals identify and cope with mental health issues.
(816) 925-0303 View (816) 925-0303
Photo of Gary Wolf, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, CFT™
Gary Wolf
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Money is a leading cause of emotional pain and family conflict. From income discrepancies between partners to intractable sibling conflict, finances are often a point of contention. Money is also the leading cause of stress in the US, and it takes courage to address it because it usually triggers underlying issues. In a changing cultural environment, managing these issues can seem overwhelming and isolating, particularly for men. As a licensed psychotherapist shaped by an extensive career in finance, I offer a unique set of skills to help clients change unhealthy patterns from money and family life —and bring relief to the table.
Money is a leading cause of emotional pain and family conflict. From income discrepancies between partners to intractable sibling conflict, finances are often a point of contention. Money is also the leading cause of stress in the US, and it takes courage to address it because it usually triggers underlying issues. In a changing cultural environment, managing these issues can seem overwhelming and isolating, particularly for men. As a licensed psychotherapist shaped by an extensive career in finance, I offer a unique set of skills to help clients change unhealthy patterns from money and family life —and bring relief to the table.
(816) 327-2297 View (816) 327-2297
Photo of Mirah Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Mirah Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Are you feeling unmotivated? Does hanging out with your friends feel hard? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you trying to navigate multiple changes in life and looking for a guide on how to overcome those challenges? Does your relationship feel chaotic? If this sounds like something you'd like help with, I'd be honored to work alongside you to get back to feeling more like yourself so you can enjoy life again. Together, we can map out a plan for success to overcome worry, anxiety, life-stressors, and depressive thoughts. Let's set up an initial appointment to see if we make a great fit. I look forward to hearing from you!
Are you feeling unmotivated? Does hanging out with your friends feel hard? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you trying to navigate multiple changes in life and looking for a guide on how to overcome those challenges? Does your relationship feel chaotic? If this sounds like something you'd like help with, I'd be honored to work alongside you to get back to feeling more like yourself so you can enjoy life again. Together, we can map out a plan for success to overcome worry, anxiety, life-stressors, and depressive thoughts. Let's set up an initial appointment to see if we make a great fit. I look forward to hearing from you!
(816) 239-2382 View (816) 239-2382
Photo of Alice Kroh, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Alice Kroh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
Whether you are a couple, family, or an individual, I am here to help you to learn and apply effective skills so life feels less overwhelming and more enjoyable. Couples often struggle with physical or emotional connection; we work to address feelings of neglect and apply rituals to restore feeling heard and loved. Families may be divided by past trauma; I offer support for each member with family therapy as needed. Individuals need relational help, self-worth rebuilding, communication skills, and, often, trauma processing to overcome feeling "less than".
Whether you are a couple, family, or an individual, I am here to help you to learn and apply effective skills so life feels less overwhelming and more enjoyable. Couples often struggle with physical or emotional connection; we work to address feelings of neglect and apply rituals to restore feeling heard and loved. Families may be divided by past trauma; I offer support for each member with family therapy as needed. Individuals need relational help, self-worth rebuilding, communication skills, and, often, trauma processing to overcome feeling "less than".
(816) 722-3329 View (816) 722-3329
Photo of Lauri M Edwards, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lauri M Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64110
My passion lies in working with adults and adolescents. My experience has been working on a variety of issues including trauma, personality d/o, self-exploration and understanding how our thinking affects our feelings and behavior. I enjoy assisting patients with identifying messages taken from life experiences that motivate our choices and behavior in order to give each individual a better understanding of self. It is this understanding that brings awareness of habituated behavior patterns, effective communication skills and balance in our daily lives. Skills that are useful to patients outside of the therapeutic setting.
My passion lies in working with adults and adolescents. My experience has been working on a variety of issues including trauma, personality d/o, self-exploration and understanding how our thinking affects our feelings and behavior. I enjoy assisting patients with identifying messages taken from life experiences that motivate our choices and behavior in order to give each individual a better understanding of self. It is this understanding that brings awareness of habituated behavior patterns, effective communication skills and balance in our daily lives. Skills that are useful to patients outside of the therapeutic setting.
(816) 226-5807 View (816) 226-5807

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Trauma and PTSD
81% Depression
79% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
74% Stress
60% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
60% BlueCross and BlueShield
40% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City, MO see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Oak Meyer Gardens, Kansas City?

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.