Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Jenna S Kiel, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Jenna S Kiel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I often work with people who are facing a major life transition and/or who are feeling "stuck." Whether that is a career change, divorce, having a child, or a major illness (just to name a few), therapy can be incredibly helpful in finding the ground beneath your feet by figuring out what your goals are and how to get there. I also work with a lot of individuals who have survived some type of trauma, including major medical illness. I find that the big "why are we here?" questions can often be important to address after traumatic experiences.
I often work with people who are facing a major life transition and/or who are feeling "stuck." Whether that is a career change, divorce, having a child, or a major illness (just to name a few), therapy can be incredibly helpful in finding the ground beneath your feet by figuring out what your goals are and how to get there. I also work with a lot of individuals who have survived some type of trauma, including major medical illness. I find that the big "why are we here?" questions can often be important to address after traumatic experiences.
(630) 239-1268 View (630) 239-1268
Photo of Emily J. Fitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Emily J. Fitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with overwhelm as it manifests through anxiety, depression, self-injury, suicidality, and disordered eating. I utilize my training in Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Psychology, and small group dynamics to empower adolescents and adults to create and lead their ideal lives.
I have a passion for working with overwhelm as it manifests through anxiety, depression, self-injury, suicidality, and disordered eating. I utilize my training in Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Psychology, and small group dynamics to empower adolescents and adults to create and lead their ideal lives.
(630) 999-2080 View (630) 999-2080
Photo of Melissa Michels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Melissa Michels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I understand that each person has their own story that has shaped them into who they are and what they are experiencing. I meet every client where they are in their story and help guide them to where they would like to be. My goal is to help adolescents and young adults reach their fullest potential by supporting, educating, and instilling hope in them and their future. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive space that allows them to explore themselves, their strengths, and their goals.
I understand that each person has their own story that has shaped them into who they are and what they are experiencing. I meet every client where they are in their story and help guide them to where they would like to be. My goal is to help adolescents and young adults reach their fullest potential by supporting, educating, and instilling hope in them and their future. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive space that allows them to explore themselves, their strengths, and their goals.
(331) 215-6591 x44 View (331) 215-6591 x44
Photo of Kristen Barlow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kristen Barlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60565
Let's be honest, life's been tough for adults and kiddos. Have you noticed yourself feeling more anxious and worried? Have you or your child felt more isolated, more irritable, and less like yourself/themselves? I help children, teens, and adults become more confident, more able to manage big emotions and more effective in relationships. I collaborate with parents to develop a clear path to healing for your child and provide regular, check-ins with parents. Let's get you or your child feeling more connected and hopeful.
Let's be honest, life's been tough for adults and kiddos. Have you noticed yourself feeling more anxious and worried? Have you or your child felt more isolated, more irritable, and less like yourself/themselves? I help children, teens, and adults become more confident, more able to manage big emotions and more effective in relationships. I collaborate with parents to develop a clear path to healing for your child and provide regular, check-ins with parents. Let's get you or your child feeling more connected and hopeful.
(630) 354-0739 View (630) 354-0739
Photo of Valerie Moreno-Tucker, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Valerie Moreno-Tucker
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CRC, she/her
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60565
I recognize that entering into a counseling relationship takes both courage and trust & applaud you for taking the time to seek a therapist who is a good fit for your needs. Above all, I believe that Your Story Matters. Through an integration of person-centered and psychodynamic theories, I support adults in unpacking their unique stories in a meaningful way. I approach counseling from a collaborative lens that honors the complexity of identity (ethnicity, gender, disability, language, sexual orientation and any other factors that relate to an individual's personal, societal and cultural experiences).
I recognize that entering into a counseling relationship takes both courage and trust & applaud you for taking the time to seek a therapist who is a good fit for your needs. Above all, I believe that Your Story Matters. Through an integration of person-centered and psychodynamic theories, I support adults in unpacking their unique stories in a meaningful way. I approach counseling from a collaborative lens that honors the complexity of identity (ethnicity, gender, disability, language, sexual orientation and any other factors that relate to an individual's personal, societal and cultural experiences).
(331) 702-9306 View (331) 702-9306
Photo of Emily Boothe, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Emily Boothe
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I enjoy working with young adults and adults in individual and couples therapy. I believe in a client-centered approach to therapy and understand that effective therapy cannot be achieved without an understanding and trusting relationship between therapist and client. Treatment often includes cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches. Each client is unique and these treatments alone may not work for every client, therefore, treatment options are altered based on client need and preference.
I enjoy working with young adults and adults in individual and couples therapy. I believe in a client-centered approach to therapy and understand that effective therapy cannot be achieved without an understanding and trusting relationship between therapist and client. Treatment often includes cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches. Each client is unique and these treatments alone may not work for every client, therefore, treatment options are altered based on client need and preference.
(630) 324-4325 View (630) 324-4325
Photo of Dr. Christine McGrath, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Dr. Christine McGrath
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Dr. McGrath is an experienced clinician with over a decade of successfully working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. Her clinical experience is expansive. She has led social skills groups for pre-adolescent and adolescent boys and girls; conducted ADHD assessments and psychological evaluations; administered intelligence screenings for gifted children, and has led grief and bereavement groups for adolescents in private and public schools. In addition, she has taught undergraduate courses at Wheaton College.
Dr. McGrath is an experienced clinician with over a decade of successfully working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. Her clinical experience is expansive. She has led social skills groups for pre-adolescent and adolescent boys and girls; conducted ADHD assessments and psychological evaluations; administered intelligence screenings for gifted children, and has led grief and bereavement groups for adolescents in private and public schools. In addition, she has taught undergraduate courses at Wheaton College.
(630) 230-1975 View (630) 230-1975
Photo of Aneta Kryczka, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Aneta Kryczka
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Relationships are very important to me. I value my clients, and above all, I provide an emotionally safe and therapeutic atmosphere. I believe that the ability to heal lies within each of us. The treatment I provide will be tailored with your specific needs. I strive to build an authentic connection with each person and focus on solutions and opportunities rather than problems. My goal is to help you resolve the conflict that you are experiencing. My style is warm and nurturing, though simultaneously open and direct. I provide therapy in English and Polish.
Relationships are very important to me. I value my clients, and above all, I provide an emotionally safe and therapeutic atmosphere. I believe that the ability to heal lies within each of us. The treatment I provide will be tailored with your specific needs. I strive to build an authentic connection with each person and focus on solutions and opportunities rather than problems. My goal is to help you resolve the conflict that you are experiencing. My style is warm and nurturing, though simultaneously open and direct. I provide therapy in English and Polish.
(630) 701-7489 x101 View (630) 701-7489 x101
Photo of Amber Burchett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Amber Burchett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Throughout her career, Amber Burchett, LPC, worked in outpatient and residential programs treating issues such as mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, anger management, and more. She is also a volunteer at PAWWs, where dogs are trained to assist veterans struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. In therapy, Amber takes a holistic approach and uses whatever methods necessary to assist the client. She is skilled in CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused / Positive Psychology, and more. No matter the method, Amber focuses on building rapport and offers an unbiased, non-judgmental stance to help
Throughout her career, Amber Burchett, LPC, worked in outpatient and residential programs treating issues such as mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, anger management, and more. She is also a volunteer at PAWWs, where dogs are trained to assist veterans struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. In therapy, Amber takes a holistic approach and uses whatever methods necessary to assist the client. She is skilled in CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused / Positive Psychology, and more. No matter the method, Amber focuses on building rapport and offers an unbiased, non-judgmental stance to help
(331) 210-9654 View (331) 210-9654
Photo of Anna Marie Smith, LPC Intern in Naperville, IL
Anna Marie Smith
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a member of our Counseling Associates Team at Counseling Works and a Masters candidate from Governors State University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I works with individuals ages 14+, specializing in ADD/ADHD, Life Changes/Adjustments, Self-Esteem/Self Worth, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Stress Management. I believe in a collaborative process and help my clients make positive changes.
I am a member of our Counseling Associates Team at Counseling Works and a Masters candidate from Governors State University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I works with individuals ages 14+, specializing in ADD/ADHD, Life Changes/Adjustments, Self-Esteem/Self Worth, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Stress Management. I believe in a collaborative process and help my clients make positive changes.
(331) 207-1873 View (331) 207-1873
Photo of Samantha Nolan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Samantha Nolan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I'm accepting new clients! Starting therapy can be tough, and I want to help you make that transition a little easier. I work with individuals ages 14 and older (ages 12+ upon request), with a specialized focus on teens, college students, and adults and have experience treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, impulsivity, and ADHD. I offer both virtual and in-person talk therapy sessions, and hope to cultivate a relaxed and comfortable environment to heal in. I also offer art therapy sessions for clients as well as art therapy supervision for professionals seeking ATR credentials.
I'm accepting new clients! Starting therapy can be tough, and I want to help you make that transition a little easier. I work with individuals ages 14 and older (ages 12+ upon request), with a specialized focus on teens, college students, and adults and have experience treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, impulsivity, and ADHD. I offer both virtual and in-person talk therapy sessions, and hope to cultivate a relaxed and comfortable environment to heal in. I also offer art therapy sessions for clients as well as art therapy supervision for professionals seeking ATR credentials.
(331) 246-1063 x920 View (331) 246-1063 x920
Photo of Keenen Elliot Stevenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Keenen Elliot Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
Peace of mind and clarity are important, and I strive to assist people in the re-creation of self. Emotional turbulence can be the thief of joy. In my practice, I work with individuals and groups to restore harmony. This is achieved by integrating solution-focused approaches that are person-centered and socially conscious.
Peace of mind and clarity are important, and I strive to assist people in the re-creation of self. Emotional turbulence can be the thief of joy. In my practice, I work with individuals and groups to restore harmony. This is achieved by integrating solution-focused approaches that are person-centered and socially conscious.
(463) 223-9371 View (463) 223-9371
Photo of Cindy Travnicek, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Cindy Travnicek
Counselor, MS, LCPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
**** Telehealth Available **** I like to offer clients new information and strategies when dealing with situations and relationship in their lives. I work with clients struggling with feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, sadness, depression and/or frustration. I like to guide them to find relief and empower them to make choices which help to experience better relationships with others, as well as themselves. I enjoy working with clients who are looking for ways to manage or eliminate the perceived obstacles or circumstances that might be in their way.to reach their maximum level of happiness.
**** Telehealth Available **** I like to offer clients new information and strategies when dealing with situations and relationship in their lives. I work with clients struggling with feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, sadness, depression and/or frustration. I like to guide them to find relief and empower them to make choices which help to experience better relationships with others, as well as themselves. I enjoy working with clients who are looking for ways to manage or eliminate the perceived obstacles or circumstances that might be in their way.to reach their maximum level of happiness.
(630) 560-4794 View (630) 560-4794
Photo of Gail Petrich, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Gail Petrich
Psychologist, MA, JD, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As an attorney and psychologist, I am especially equipped to work with those who experience stress in issues related to the law: divorce, mediation, parent coordination, supervised visitation, co-parenting, stepfamilies, child abuse issues, adolescents in criminal crisis, etc. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them develop their potential for making better relational and individual choices. My goal is to provide careful assessment, support, and high quality therapy as clients seek to understand and manage their lives.
As an attorney and psychologist, I am especially equipped to work with those who experience stress in issues related to the law: divorce, mediation, parent coordination, supervised visitation, co-parenting, stepfamilies, child abuse issues, adolescents in criminal crisis, etc. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them develop their potential for making better relational and individual choices. My goal is to provide careful assessment, support, and high quality therapy as clients seek to understand and manage their lives.
(708) 695-8866 View (708) 695-8866
Photo of Taylor Kelly, LPC Intern in Naperville, IL
Taylor Kelly
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I provide individual counseling for clients ages 6-50 years old. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Life Changes/Adjustments, Self-Esteem/Self Worth, Stress Management, Trauma/PTSD, and Women's Issues. I look forward to building upon my experiences by working with a wide range of clients. I provide a warm, welcoming, and safe atmosphere for my clients through my accepting and non-judgmental demeanor.
I provide individual counseling for clients ages 6-50 years old. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Life Changes/Adjustments, Self-Esteem/Self Worth, Stress Management, Trauma/PTSD, and Women's Issues. I look forward to building upon my experiences by working with a wide range of clients. I provide a warm, welcoming, and safe atmosphere for my clients through my accepting and non-judgmental demeanor.
(331) 204-1967 View (331) 204-1967
Photo of Tammi C. Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Tammi C. Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I look forward to working with individuals that are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and re-balancing their life. There comes a time in all of our lives where we need the compassion and support of a therapist that truly is present and cares. I will offer you a safe space to process and work through your challenges. Life is but a journey and it is meant for us to enjoy our lives. Yes, there will be some challenges, but we can get through the challenges when we have the tools and a support system to help us along our path.
I look forward to working with individuals that are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and re-balancing their life. There comes a time in all of our lives where we need the compassion and support of a therapist that truly is present and cares. I will offer you a safe space to process and work through your challenges. Life is but a journey and it is meant for us to enjoy our lives. Yes, there will be some challenges, but we can get through the challenges when we have the tools and a support system to help us along our path.
(331) 204-0136 View (331) 204-0136
Photo of Aaron M. Polsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Aaron M. Polsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
You've lost someone who is so much more than just “close” to you. You've lost part of who you are. That person was part of your past and supposed to be part of your future. That person is part of what has made your life worth living. You literally cannot imagine life without them. As you go through your days, you find yourself about to call or text them. You want to tell them what just happened to you. But, of course, you can’t. It’s not fair. It’s not right. The pain is unbearable. This is the hardest thing you’ve ever had to live through. And it seems like everyone else has moved on. You can never move on.
You've lost someone who is so much more than just “close” to you. You've lost part of who you are. That person was part of your past and supposed to be part of your future. That person is part of what has made your life worth living. You literally cannot imagine life without them. As you go through your days, you find yourself about to call or text them. You want to tell them what just happened to you. But, of course, you can’t. It’s not fair. It’s not right. The pain is unbearable. This is the hardest thing you’ve ever had to live through. And it seems like everyone else has moved on. You can never move on.
(331) 425-6466 View (331) 425-6466
Photo of Jacquelyn Spokas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Jacquelyn Spokas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I’m compassionate and highly qualified professional dedicated to supporting individuals as a Licensed Professional Counselor and School Counselor. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Education in School and Community Counseling from DePaul University, where I also earned my Type 73 certification. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to helping students navigate academic and social-emotional challenges. For seven and a half years, I served as a school counselor at Taft High School, part of Chicago Public Schools.
I’m compassionate and highly qualified professional dedicated to supporting individuals as a Licensed Professional Counselor and School Counselor. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Education in School and Community Counseling from DePaul University, where I also earned my Type 73 certification. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to helping students navigate academic and social-emotional challenges. For seven and a half years, I served as a school counselor at Taft High School, part of Chicago Public Schools.
(331) 422-3834 View (331) 422-3834
Photo of Heather Olsson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Heather Olsson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Have you experienced Trauma, are you Anxious, Depressed? Are you a First Responder? You may be fed up with your inability to share your day with loved ones in an effort to shield them. Are you wanting to change the way you deal with stress (dark humor, isolation, over eating etc.) and/or are you feeling irritable, overwhelmed, confused and questioning “why now”? You might not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. Most of all, you’re ready to change your outlook on life which will include hope.
Have you experienced Trauma, are you Anxious, Depressed? Are you a First Responder? You may be fed up with your inability to share your day with loved ones in an effort to shield them. Are you wanting to change the way you deal with stress (dark humor, isolation, over eating etc.) and/or are you feeling irritable, overwhelmed, confused and questioning “why now”? You might not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. Most of all, you’re ready to change your outlook on life which will include hope.
(331) 253-5209 View (331) 253-5209
Photo of Jenille Gunter-Harlan, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Jenille Gunter-Harlan
Counselor, MS, NCC, PEL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with youth and families through the education system as well as the church platform. I am extremely passionate about mental health and I believe in building empathic relationships. I do this by actively working with clients to achieve desired results of whole health goals through approaches such as but not limited to Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believe it is important to use a client-centered focus to truly engage individuals in effective, positive, and responsive therapy to improve interpersonal relationships.
I have many years of experience working with youth and families through the education system as well as the church platform. I am extremely passionate about mental health and I believe in building empathic relationships. I do this by actively working with clients to achieve desired results of whole health goals through approaches such as but not limited to Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believe it is important to use a client-centered focus to truly engage individuals in effective, positive, and responsive therapy to improve interpersonal relationships.
(331) 241-7599 View (331) 241-7599

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Naperville, IL

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Naperville, IL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
65% Grief
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
61% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Naperville, IL see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Naperville?

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.