Therapists in Richmond Heights, MO

Photo of Janet Amitin-Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Janet Amitin-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Everyone encounters difficulties throughout life, and sometimes these challenges can feel overwhelming and hard to navigate alone. Whether stemming from a single event or accumulated stressors over time, unresolved experiences can lead to lasting emotional distress and interfere with daily functioning. My goal is to provide professional support that helps you process these experiences and move forward.
Everyone encounters difficulties throughout life, and sometimes these challenges can feel overwhelming and hard to navigate alone. Whether stemming from a single event or accumulated stressors over time, unresolved experiences can lead to lasting emotional distress and interfere with daily functioning. My goal is to provide professional support that helps you process these experiences and move forward.
(314) 207-0583 View (314) 207-0583
Photo of Hannah Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hannah Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
For over a decade, I have supported individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, relationship wounds, and the complexities of parenting. I have extensive experience working with pregnant and post-partum women, foster and adoptive families, and individuals who have experienced trauma and loss. While traditional talk therapy often takes a top-down approach — focusing on thoughts and behavior — it can often feel like watering only the leaves of a tree and expecting it to flourish. In my practice, we go deeper.
For over a decade, I have supported individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, relationship wounds, and the complexities of parenting. I have extensive experience working with pregnant and post-partum women, foster and adoptive families, and individuals who have experienced trauma and loss. While traditional talk therapy often takes a top-down approach — focusing on thoughts and behavior — it can often feel like watering only the leaves of a tree and expecting it to flourish. In my practice, we go deeper.
(314) 325-2756 View (314) 325-2756
Photo of Rachel Gaglio, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Rachel Gaglio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Hello and a warm welcome to you. I provide in-person and Telehealth psychotherapy for adults and couples who have experienced trauma, crisis, grief, and loss using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), relational cultural therapy (RCT), and Gottman Method approaches in my clinical work.
Hello and a warm welcome to you. I provide in-person and Telehealth psychotherapy for adults and couples who have experienced trauma, crisis, grief, and loss using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), relational cultural therapy (RCT), and Gottman Method approaches in my clinical work.
(314) 949-7288 View (314) 949-7288
Photo of Andrea Bagaglio - Psychological Services of St Louis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Psychological Services of St Louis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Children too, deserve to have a safe and comfortable place to discuss their emotions and learn skills to manage life's ever changing events. I offer therapy to children ages 12 through young adulthood. I strive to provide a relaxed and welcoming environment. It is important that each child feels safe to foster the therapeutic relationship. I have 14 years experience working with children of all ages, as well as providing parents with information about diagnoses and providing supports for home. Areas include, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Autism, and more.
Children too, deserve to have a safe and comfortable place to discuss their emotions and learn skills to manage life's ever changing events. I offer therapy to children ages 12 through young adulthood. I strive to provide a relaxed and welcoming environment. It is important that each child feels safe to foster the therapeutic relationship. I have 14 years experience working with children of all ages, as well as providing parents with information about diagnoses and providing supports for home. Areas include, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Autism, and more.
(314) 804-0895 View (314) 804-0895
Photo of Mary Benhoff, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mary Benhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Mary is a counselor, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from Lindenwood University with a Masters in Professional Counseling. Mary believes in Client-Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her main areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD. In her spare time, Mary enjoys hiking, cooking, and spending time with loved ones.
Mary is a counselor, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from Lindenwood University with a Masters in Professional Counseling. Mary believes in Client-Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her main areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD. In her spare time, Mary enjoys hiking, cooking, and spending time with loved ones.
(314) 274-1793 View (314) 274-1793
Photo of Qiyun(kiki) Gao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Qiyun(kiki) Gao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Are you noticing increased anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed while navigating life transitions or cultural changes? Are you an international student, or come from a diverse or multicultural background? Many seek therapy feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or struggling to adjust. I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, stress, and life transitions, with a focus on international students and multicultural clients. Through culturally responsive, bilingual (English/Mandarin) therapy, I provide personalized support to address identity challenges, adjustment stress, and feelings of isolation.
Are you noticing increased anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed while navigating life transitions or cultural changes? Are you an international student, or come from a diverse or multicultural background? Many seek therapy feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or struggling to adjust. I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, stress, and life transitions, with a focus on international students and multicultural clients. Through culturally responsive, bilingual (English/Mandarin) therapy, I provide personalized support to address identity challenges, adjustment stress, and feelings of isolation.
(314) 207-3614 View (314) 207-3614
Photo of Ciarra Yancey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ciarra Yancey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Ciarra Yancey, LPC works with individuals 4-25 years of age. She has worked with a variety of children and their families which include working with individuals in the foster care system, children who have experienced significant trauma, and children with behavioral and emotional disorders. She has also worked with children on the autism spectrum in a school setting. Ciarra is passionate about working with children and their families to help them build strong, trusting relationships. She believes that healthy relationships are key to living happy, fulfilling lives.
Ciarra Yancey, LPC works with individuals 4-25 years of age. She has worked with a variety of children and their families which include working with individuals in the foster care system, children who have experienced significant trauma, and children with behavioral and emotional disorders. She has also worked with children on the autism spectrum in a school setting. Ciarra is passionate about working with children and their families to help them build strong, trusting relationships. She believes that healthy relationships are key to living happy, fulfilling lives.
(314) 970-4224 View (314) 970-4224
Photo of Emily Klamer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Emily Klamer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
8 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I’m a psychoanalytic psychotherapist working with those who seek to understand of how their relationships and histories create personal patterns they cannot seem to shift on their own. Many have tried other therapies but felt something deeper was missing. They sense there is more beneath the surface, and they want a space where their inner world is taken seriously. I work with people navigating complicated family dynamics, especially adult children of emotionally inconsistent parents; LGBTQ+ individuals; creatives and writers; and people struggling with anxiety, shame, envy, or relational difficulties.
I’m a psychoanalytic psychotherapist working with those who seek to understand of how their relationships and histories create personal patterns they cannot seem to shift on their own. Many have tried other therapies but felt something deeper was missing. They sense there is more beneath the surface, and they want a space where their inner world is taken seriously. I work with people navigating complicated family dynamics, especially adult children of emotionally inconsistent parents; LGBTQ+ individuals; creatives and writers; and people struggling with anxiety, shame, envy, or relational difficulties.
(314) 310-3840 View (314) 310-3840
Photo of Nelver Jean Brooks, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nelver Jean Brooks
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I am a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) who holds a Doctorate in Education and has developed extensive experience supporting diverse learners and their families. My growing passion for mental health and emotional wellness, particularly among underrepresented and underserved populations, has deeply influenced my belief in the importance of culturally responsive care. Under the supervision of Dr. Timika S. Edwards, PhD, Licensed psychologist, I provide evidence-based therapy to children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) who holds a Doctorate in Education and has developed extensive experience supporting diverse learners and their families. My growing passion for mental health and emotional wellness, particularly among underrepresented and underserved populations, has deeply influenced my belief in the importance of culturally responsive care. Under the supervision of Dr. Timika S. Edwards, PhD, Licensed psychologist, I provide evidence-based therapy to children, adolescents, and adults.
(314) 237-8568 View (314) 237-8568
Photo of Suzanne (Landis) Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Suzanne (Landis) Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Welcome to my practice! Are you looking for a confidential, safe place and ready to make some meaningful changes? I’ve been working as a licensed clinical social worker since 1999, supporting, guiding & helping adolescents, young adults & adults effectively manage emotional health & wellness challenges. I believe the key to beginning the healing process is in finding someone you can build a genuine, safe, open & insightful therapeutic relationship with. We ALL need someone who will genuinely listen, explore, & help us navigate to better understand life’s challenges. Together, we will explore & build insights & work on a new chapter!
Welcome to my practice! Are you looking for a confidential, safe place and ready to make some meaningful changes? I’ve been working as a licensed clinical social worker since 1999, supporting, guiding & helping adolescents, young adults & adults effectively manage emotional health & wellness challenges. I believe the key to beginning the healing process is in finding someone you can build a genuine, safe, open & insightful therapeutic relationship with. We ALL need someone who will genuinely listen, explore, & help us navigate to better understand life’s challenges. Together, we will explore & build insights & work on a new chapter!
(314) 582-4726 View (314) 582-4726
Photo of Diane Venker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Diane Venker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
My practice includes clients dealing with depression, anxiety, abuse issues, relationship conflicts, grief and loss, and parent/child problems. I may utilize solution-focused therapy to provide initial relief of symptoms but I always encourage my clients to look for and explore the source of their difficulties so that life-long resolutions can be gained. I am trained in psychodynamic therapy but adjust treatment according to the client's needs.
My practice includes clients dealing with depression, anxiety, abuse issues, relationship conflicts, grief and loss, and parent/child problems. I may utilize solution-focused therapy to provide initial relief of symptoms but I always encourage my clients to look for and explore the source of their difficulties so that life-long resolutions can be gained. I am trained in psychodynamic therapy but adjust treatment according to the client's needs.
(314) 375-3994 View (314) 375-3994
Photo of Gretchen Haughey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Gretchen Haughey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Feel stuck? Misunderstood? Like you are longing for something, but do not know what? Not only are your questions and frustrations valuable, they let us in on the experience of what led you to getting stuck.
Feel stuck? Misunderstood? Like you are longing for something, but do not know what? Not only are your questions and frustrations valuable, they let us in on the experience of what led you to getting stuck.
(314) 501-9315 View (314) 501-9315
Photo of Ashley Menke, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Ashley Menke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
5 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Have you ever found yourself stuck in the same emotional loop: different people, different settings, but somehow the same storyline plays out again and again? It might be a recurring conflict in relationships, a sense of always being the caretaker, or feeling dismissed and unseen despite trying to speak up. These patterns can feel frustrating, confusing, or even disheartening, especially when we don’t yet have the language to name them or the tools to change them. Many people come to counseling with the sense that something needs to shift, but they’re unsure where to begin. That’s where I come in.
Have you ever found yourself stuck in the same emotional loop: different people, different settings, but somehow the same storyline plays out again and again? It might be a recurring conflict in relationships, a sense of always being the caretaker, or feeling dismissed and unseen despite trying to speak up. These patterns can feel frustrating, confusing, or even disheartening, especially when we don’t yet have the language to name them or the tools to change them. Many people come to counseling with the sense that something needs to shift, but they’re unsure where to begin. That’s where I come in.
(314) 626-8997 View (314) 626-8997
Photo of Stacey Flavin-Cave, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Stacey Flavin-Cave
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Oh, hi! I'm Stacey and I support people who are navigating intense emotions, depression, anxiety, and patterns that feel harmful or overwhelming, including self-injury and thoughts of suicide. Many of the individuals I work with are seeking new ways to cope, connect, and feel more in control of their lives. I welcome teens, adults, and families, especially those facing challenges related to borderline personality disorder (BPD), trauma, or ongoing emotional pain. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is at the heart of my work because it offers practical, evidence-based skills that people can use to move toward the life they want.
Oh, hi! I'm Stacey and I support people who are navigating intense emotions, depression, anxiety, and patterns that feel harmful or overwhelming, including self-injury and thoughts of suicide. Many of the individuals I work with are seeking new ways to cope, connect, and feel more in control of their lives. I welcome teens, adults, and families, especially those facing challenges related to borderline personality disorder (BPD), trauma, or ongoing emotional pain. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is at the heart of my work because it offers practical, evidence-based skills that people can use to move toward the life they want.
(314) 794-7893 View (314) 794-7893
Photo of Lianne Johnson - Avenues Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Avenues Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Dealing with pain is hard and scary. We get that. At Avenues Counseling, we offer avenues of care to our community for those seeking healing from the pains of life, as well as those seeking personal growth. We exist to offer you a safe, trustworthy place to ask difficult questions, share your life story, and walk with you as you seek restoration. We believe emotional wellness should be accessible to all. The mission of Avenues is to provide vital mental health counseling services to all who have a need, regardless of someone’s ability to pay. All of our counselors donate services by offering reduced fees based on need.
Dealing with pain is hard and scary. We get that. At Avenues Counseling, we offer avenues of care to our community for those seeking healing from the pains of life, as well as those seeking personal growth. We exist to offer you a safe, trustworthy place to ask difficult questions, share your life story, and walk with you as you seek restoration. We believe emotional wellness should be accessible to all. The mission of Avenues is to provide vital mental health counseling services to all who have a need, regardless of someone’s ability to pay. All of our counselors donate services by offering reduced fees based on need.
(314) 948-3292 View (314) 948-3292
Photo of Meghan York, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Meghan York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
My name is Meghan, and I’m a biracial Filipino therapist. I’m so glad you found me! I work with adults carrying a lot, whether that’s trauma, anxiety, depression, identity questions, or relationship stress, etc. I am also very passionate about supporting folks from marginalized identities. Many feel overwhelmed, unsure, or tired of holding it all alone. I offer a warm, down to earth, trauma informed, anti racist space where you can show up as you are. Together, we slow things down, gently work with what you’re holding, and help you feel more steady, supported, and able to trust yourself.
My name is Meghan, and I’m a biracial Filipino therapist. I’m so glad you found me! I work with adults carrying a lot, whether that’s trauma, anxiety, depression, identity questions, or relationship stress, etc. I am also very passionate about supporting folks from marginalized identities. Many feel overwhelmed, unsure, or tired of holding it all alone. I offer a warm, down to earth, trauma informed, anti racist space where you can show up as you are. Together, we slow things down, gently work with what you’re holding, and help you feel more steady, supported, and able to trust yourself.
(314) 936-4273 View (314) 936-4273
Photo of Casey Tyskowski, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Casey Tyskowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
My goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel safe, validated, and supported as we work together to identify challenges and create personalized goals that will lead you to ultimately heal and feel whole again. I have close to a decade of professional experience assisting adults who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, anger, dysfunctional relationships, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, addiction and more. I have helped couples navigate stressful events and shifts in their relationship, improve overall communication and conflict resolution, and rebuild connection with one another.
My goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel safe, validated, and supported as we work together to identify challenges and create personalized goals that will lead you to ultimately heal and feel whole again. I have close to a decade of professional experience assisting adults who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, anger, dysfunctional relationships, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, addiction and more. I have helped couples navigate stressful events and shifts in their relationship, improve overall communication and conflict resolution, and rebuild connection with one another.
(314) 742-7574 View (314) 742-7574
Photo of Ciarra Yancey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ciarra Yancey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Ciarra Yancey, LPC works with individuals 4-25 years of age. She has worked with a variety of children and their families which include working with individuals in the foster care system, children who have experienced significant trauma, and children with behavioral and emotional disorders. She has also worked with children on the autism spectrum in a school setting. Ciarra is passionate about working with children and their families to help them build strong, trusting relationships. She believes that healthy relationships are key to living happy, fulfilling lives.
Ciarra Yancey, LPC works with individuals 4-25 years of age. She has worked with a variety of children and their families which include working with individuals in the foster care system, children who have experienced significant trauma, and children with behavioral and emotional disorders. She has also worked with children on the autism spectrum in a school setting. Ciarra is passionate about working with children and their families to help them build strong, trusting relationships. She believes that healthy relationships are key to living happy, fulfilling lives.
(314) 866-7784 View (314) 866-7784
Photo of Karen Loaiza, Psychologist, PhD
Karen Loaiza
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in providing quality, informed psychotherapy as well as diagnostic assessment. It is truly amazing how life changing the therapy process can be, and I am committed to working in a genuine and collaborative way in order to help people through their path of recovery. I help people achieve symptom relief but also get to the root source of the problem for lasting positive change and improved life satisfaction.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in providing quality, informed psychotherapy as well as diagnostic assessment. It is truly amazing how life changing the therapy process can be, and I am committed to working in a genuine and collaborative way in order to help people through their path of recovery. I help people achieve symptom relief but also get to the root source of the problem for lasting positive change and improved life satisfaction.
(314) 310-2766 View (314) 310-2766
Photo of Cheyenne Bauman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Cheyenne Bauman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
5 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. It’s important to find someone you connect with, and I’m here to help make that process easier. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported—a place where you can not only survive but thrive. Therapy, for me, is about honoring your story and providing a path to lasting healing—not just symptom relief. I’m passionate about helping people improve their quality of life, deepen their internal connection, build adaptive skills, and nurture healthier relationships with themselves, others, food, body, and movement.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. It’s important to find someone you connect with, and I’m here to help make that process easier. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported—a place where you can not only survive but thrive. Therapy, for me, is about honoring your story and providing a path to lasting healing—not just symptom relief. I’m passionate about helping people improve their quality of life, deepen their internal connection, build adaptive skills, and nurture healthier relationships with themselves, others, food, body, and movement.
(314) 403-1998 View (314) 403-1998

See more therapy options for Richmond Heights

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Richmond Heights, MO

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Richmond Heights, MO who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
83% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
65% Relationship Issues
64% Grief
61% Self Esteem
54% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Richmond Heights, MO see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Richmond Heights?

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.