Therapists in Catawba County, NC

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Photo of Karen D. Hernandez, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Karen D. Hernandez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, NC 28658
Hi! Im Karen, and I am an LCMHC, LCAS, ( 8 years ) in providing therapy for clients. I graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University, Hickory, North Carolina. I currently serve clients from ages 10-99 years old. So just as my slogan says I want to help you recover, rejuvenate, and replenish. Together we can work to build your resilience so that whatever you may be dealing with in life you won't get down and stay down you will learn the skills in sessions and be able to rejuvenate (the act of energizing, revitalizing) yourself and get back up.
Hi! Im Karen, and I am an LCMHC, LCAS, ( 8 years ) in providing therapy for clients. I graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University, Hickory, North Carolina. I currently serve clients from ages 10-99 years old. So just as my slogan says I want to help you recover, rejuvenate, and replenish. Together we can work to build your resilience so that whatever you may be dealing with in life you won't get down and stay down you will learn the skills in sessions and be able to rejuvenate (the act of energizing, revitalizing) yourself and get back up.
(828) 382-8606 View (828) 382-8606
Photo of Astra B. Czerny, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Astra B. Czerny
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Empowerment and healing go hand in hand. All of us experience challenges and hard times. We all struggle. Let me help you understand what is getting in the way. Together, we can guide your actions to a place where you feel more in control - Empowered! I will walk with you through the process of transformation. Is saying no difficult for you? Do you struggle to set boundaries with others? Are your own needs and happiness often pushed aside? Is your self worth based on how others treat you?
Empowerment and healing go hand in hand. All of us experience challenges and hard times. We all struggle. Let me help you understand what is getting in the way. Together, we can guide your actions to a place where you feel more in control - Empowered! I will walk with you through the process of transformation. Is saying no difficult for you? Do you struggle to set boundaries with others? Are your own needs and happiness often pushed aside? Is your self worth based on how others treat you?
(828) 374-1648 View (828) 374-1648
Kitty Conley Benfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Not Verified Not Verified
Conover, NC 28613
I counsel clients from ages 3-85 years of age. I work with clients that have ADD, ADHD, Compulsive and anxiety behaviors, Bi-Polar issues, Depression, Marital Therapy, Separation Anxiety disorders, Family Therapy, Divorce issues, PTSD. I am a RN for 43 years, A Licensed Professional Counselor for the past 15 years. I have worked in Mental Health for the past 23 years. I use the following modalities to treat my clients; Cognitive Behavorial Techniques, Experiential Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Strategic and Structural Therapies, Narrative Therapy, Object Relations Therapy,and Play Therapy for the age. I normally use a combined therapy techniques, according to the individual needs of the client.
I counsel clients from ages 3-85 years of age. I work with clients that have ADD, ADHD, Compulsive and anxiety behaviors, Bi-Polar issues, Depression, Marital Therapy, Separation Anxiety disorders, Family Therapy, Divorce issues, PTSD. I am a RN for 43 years, A Licensed Professional Counselor for the past 15 years. I have worked in Mental Health for the past 23 years. I use the following modalities to treat my clients; Cognitive Behavorial Techniques, Experiential Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Strategic and Structural Therapies, Narrative Therapy, Object Relations Therapy,and Play Therapy for the age. I normally use a combined therapy techniques, according to the individual needs of the client.
(828) 738-1167 View (828) 738-1167
Photo of Stephanie English, MA, LCMHC
Stephanie English
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Conover, NC 28613
When life and relationships create unsettling challenges, people tend to rely on unhealthy, learned emotional reactions and thought patterns. By creating a safe, non-judgmental environment in therapy, I can help you identify these destructive emotions and thought processes, while consciously redirecting them into a mindfully positive, rational perspective to decrease emotional distress, reduce life and family conflicts, and stressors.
When life and relationships create unsettling challenges, people tend to rely on unhealthy, learned emotional reactions and thought patterns. By creating a safe, non-judgmental environment in therapy, I can help you identify these destructive emotions and thought processes, while consciously redirecting them into a mindfully positive, rational perspective to decrease emotional distress, reduce life and family conflicts, and stressors.
(828) 547-3738 View (828) 547-3738
Photo of Paula Swindle - Center for Healing Religious Harm, PhD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Center for Healing Religious Harm
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Not accepting new clients
Have you been hurt by church or by religion? Has religion been used as a weapon against you? Harm done in the name of God, Jesus, or faith of any kind has the power to cause great damage. You may feel betrayed, manipulated, misunderstood, or devalued. Religious harm or abuse can happen in many ways, including supporting (directly or indirectly) domestic abuse, gender discrimination, marginalization of the LGBTQ+ community, financial manipulation, racial discrimination, or sexual abuse from clergy.
Have you been hurt by church or by religion? Has religion been used as a weapon against you? Harm done in the name of God, Jesus, or faith of any kind has the power to cause great damage. You may feel betrayed, manipulated, misunderstood, or devalued. Religious harm or abuse can happen in many ways, including supporting (directly or indirectly) domestic abuse, gender discrimination, marginalization of the LGBTQ+ community, financial manipulation, racial discrimination, or sexual abuse from clergy.
(828) 202-8151 View (828) 202-8151
Photo of Lane K Griffith, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Lane K Griffith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newton, NC 28658
Not accepting new clients
Life can be joyous and full of possibilities, as well as confusing, and at times, devastating. My goal is to help adolescents and adults successfully navigate the challenges of life to find peace and healing. I welcome clients of all backgrounds, and provide a safe, non-judgmental place to help you find your light and strength.
Life can be joyous and full of possibilities, as well as confusing, and at times, devastating. My goal is to help adolescents and adults successfully navigate the challenges of life to find peace and healing. I welcome clients of all backgrounds, and provide a safe, non-judgmental place to help you find your light and strength.
(704) 207-0083 View (704) 207-0083
Photo of Monique L Washburn, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monique L Washburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
I believe that effective therapy begins with a person-centered approach, recognizing the unique experiences and needs of each individual. My guiding philosophy is that one cannot help others heal without first helping oneself. This principle shapes my commitment to personal growth and self-care, enabling me to provide the best possible support to my clients.
I believe that effective therapy begins with a person-centered approach, recognizing the unique experiences and needs of each individual. My guiding philosophy is that one cannot help others heal without first helping oneself. This principle shapes my commitment to personal growth and self-care, enabling me to provide the best possible support to my clients.
(828) 903-8308 View (828) 903-8308
Photo of Pamela J Schultz, MSW, LCSW, Pamela , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela J Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Pamela
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I love to work with adults and adolescents who are struggling with the challenges of daily life or who feel weighed down by issues of the past. My clients often struggle with anxiety, depression, identity issues, grief, stress, or relationship issues. I'm ready to serve people who are ready for change, or contemplating what the first steps of change look like. I practice exclusively through teletherapy sessions, and require clients to have reliable and consistent access to internet services. I offer a safe space for BIPOC, women, LGBTQIA+/trans/poly, neurodivergent, and other diverse communities.
I love to work with adults and adolescents who are struggling with the challenges of daily life or who feel weighed down by issues of the past. My clients often struggle with anxiety, depression, identity issues, grief, stress, or relationship issues. I'm ready to serve people who are ready for change, or contemplating what the first steps of change look like. I practice exclusively through teletherapy sessions, and require clients to have reliable and consistent access to internet services. I offer a safe space for BIPOC, women, LGBTQIA+/trans/poly, neurodivergent, and other diverse communities.
(828) 332-5932 View (828) 332-5932
Photo of Julie Marie Dollar, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Marie Dollar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
I am passionate about working with kids, teens, and adults who are struggling with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Personality Disorders, as well as any other challenges in life. I am looking for client's who are tired of surviving and who want to experience life at it's fullest.
I am passionate about working with kids, teens, and adults who are struggling with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Personality Disorders, as well as any other challenges in life. I am looking for client's who are tired of surviving and who want to experience life at it's fullest.
(828) 622-4294 x5 View (828) 622-4294 x5
Photo of LaRue Neilson, LCMHC, NCC, LCASA
LaRue Neilson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Newton, NC 28658
You have taken an incredibly positive and courageous step by deciding to seek therapy, and I am honored to walk alongside you during this journey. It is my belief that every individual possesses the strength necessary to grow, heal, and live from a place of restoration. Trauma-informed approaches are the foundation of my work as a counselor and I welcome you to take a step toward healing.
You have taken an incredibly positive and courageous step by deciding to seek therapy, and I am honored to walk alongside you during this journey. It is my belief that every individual possesses the strength necessary to grow, heal, and live from a place of restoration. Trauma-informed approaches are the foundation of my work as a counselor and I welcome you to take a step toward healing.
(828) 519-1051 View (828) 519-1051
Photo of John Wepner, MA, LCMHC
John Wepner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
I seek to build a collaborative working environment with my clients that respects the inner trouble one experiences, seeks a deeper understanding of where that comes from, and builds toward embodied vitality and self-acceptance. I work with adults and teenagers dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem & confidence issues, family and relationship issues, grief and loss, existential issues, life changes, and stress. Healing, growth, and change come about gradually through consistent and sustained effort; it requires learning to think, feel, act in new ways, and see oneself with new perspectives.
I seek to build a collaborative working environment with my clients that respects the inner trouble one experiences, seeks a deeper understanding of where that comes from, and builds toward embodied vitality and self-acceptance. I work with adults and teenagers dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem & confidence issues, family and relationship issues, grief and loss, existential issues, life changes, and stress. Healing, growth, and change come about gradually through consistent and sustained effort; it requires learning to think, feel, act in new ways, and see oneself with new perspectives.
(828) 360-8192 View (828) 360-8192
Photo of Charles Gross, LCMHC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
I find it very gratifying to work with both female and male adult clients who feel stuck in life, who have a real desire to discover meaning, and who want to discover or renew their sense of purpose and direction. I also find it rewarding to work with those who desire to break free from the debilitating symptoms of past trauma, and to process the intense pain of grief or personal loss. In addition, I truly enjoy working with couples, as well as parents and teenage children, who feel locked in conflict, but who also genuinely desire to improve their communication patterns and to achieve a positive breakthrough in their relationships.
I find it very gratifying to work with both female and male adult clients who feel stuck in life, who have a real desire to discover meaning, and who want to discover or renew their sense of purpose and direction. I also find it rewarding to work with those who desire to break free from the debilitating symptoms of past trauma, and to process the intense pain of grief or personal loss. In addition, I truly enjoy working with couples, as well as parents and teenage children, who feel locked in conflict, but who also genuinely desire to improve their communication patterns and to achieve a positive breakthrough in their relationships.
(828) 589-4631 View (828) 589-4631
Photo of Jessica Spears, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
I help clients discover how past and present experiences affect how they currently function. By understanding how these experiences are intertwined, you will have the ability to make lasting change! Through this process, my clients discover their voice, learn to set and maintain boundaries and find inner strength. Having a front row seat to my client’s personal growth is the most rewarding part of being a therapist. Let me support and guide you through your journey! As I share with clients, we have to embrace our past, present and future to begin the healing process.
I help clients discover how past and present experiences affect how they currently function. By understanding how these experiences are intertwined, you will have the ability to make lasting change! Through this process, my clients discover their voice, learn to set and maintain boundaries and find inner strength. Having a front row seat to my client’s personal growth is the most rewarding part of being a therapist. Let me support and guide you through your journey! As I share with clients, we have to embrace our past, present and future to begin the healing process.
(828) 705-3431 View (828) 705-3431
Photo of Sidney Skerlak, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sidney Skerlak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome to your space for self-discovery, growth, and healing! My passion lies in creating a safe space for individuals to open up about struggles in life, including self-esteem issues, stress, unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, psychosis, and other complex emotions and experiences. I use a person-centered, strengths based approach to collaboratively work with clients to achieve their goals by identifying and resolving underlying issues related to emotional dysregulation, disruptive behavior, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other aspects of being human.
Welcome to your space for self-discovery, growth, and healing! My passion lies in creating a safe space for individuals to open up about struggles in life, including self-esteem issues, stress, unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, psychosis, and other complex emotions and experiences. I use a person-centered, strengths based approach to collaboratively work with clients to achieve their goals by identifying and resolving underlying issues related to emotional dysregulation, disruptive behavior, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other aspects of being human.
(704) 486-1164 View (704) 486-1164
Photo of Stacey Chapman, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Stacey Chapman
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Living with anxiety, OCD, and/or ADHD can be overwhelming, affecting various aspects of your life. Having both personal and professional experience, I understand the unique complexities and struggles that often accompany these diagnoses. Choosing therapy is an act of self-care and bravery, and I commend you for taking this step towards positive change. Together, we can cultivate your inner strengths, enhance your self-awareness, and empower you to overcome challenges associated with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other mental health disorders. I am honored to have the opportunity to support you on your path towards mental wellness.
Living with anxiety, OCD, and/or ADHD can be overwhelming, affecting various aspects of your life. Having both personal and professional experience, I understand the unique complexities and struggles that often accompany these diagnoses. Choosing therapy is an act of self-care and bravery, and I commend you for taking this step towards positive change. Together, we can cultivate your inner strengths, enhance your self-awareness, and empower you to overcome challenges associated with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other mental health disorders. I am honored to have the opportunity to support you on your path towards mental wellness.
View
Photo of Amy Neal, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you find yourself struggling with frequent worries, anxiety, depression, memories from the past? You want to move forward, live freely, and truly enjoy life, work, and meaningful relationships with others. You have goals you want to achieve and are tired of feeling held back. Through reflection you realize that many of these struggles are tied to the past... perhaps to childhood experiences, unhealthy relationships, trauma, or past difficult situations you went through. Perhaps you can't even quite identify the reason, you just feel a heavy emotional burden and that something is holding you back.
Do you find yourself struggling with frequent worries, anxiety, depression, memories from the past? You want to move forward, live freely, and truly enjoy life, work, and meaningful relationships with others. You have goals you want to achieve and are tired of feeling held back. Through reflection you realize that many of these struggles are tied to the past... perhaps to childhood experiences, unhealthy relationships, trauma, or past difficult situations you went through. Perhaps you can't even quite identify the reason, you just feel a heavy emotional burden and that something is holding you back.
(828) 970-1584 View (828) 970-1584
Photo of Jill Ryon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Ryon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Life challenges occur at different stages in our lives and sometimes they are overwhelming to navigate on our own. We can often get lost in feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, and confusion which cultivates hopelessness as we allow these thoughts and emotions to take over our lives.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Life challenges occur at different stages in our lives and sometimes they are overwhelming to navigate on our own. We can often get lost in feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, and confusion which cultivates hopelessness as we allow these thoughts and emotions to take over our lives.
(828) 548-0403 View (828) 548-0403
Photo of Donna Lea Carver - Climb to Safety Counseling, LCMHC, LCAS
Climb to Safety Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
My career as a counselor began in 1997;however, I was certified. I have returned to the University of Lenoir Rhyne College and now have a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. I am dually licensed mental health and substance abuse. Personally, I believe counseling has a stigma, unwarranted. Everyone needs help during difficult times in our life and I am speaking from experience. After my mother died, I felt a sense of loss and desperation. I realized in healing it was something I couldn't do alone. I am thankful for my grief counselor. Now I hope to provide the same refuge for anyone hurting. Please try! I will help!
My career as a counselor began in 1997;however, I was certified. I have returned to the University of Lenoir Rhyne College and now have a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. I am dually licensed mental health and substance abuse. Personally, I believe counseling has a stigma, unwarranted. Everyone needs help during difficult times in our life and I am speaking from experience. After my mother died, I felt a sense of loss and desperation. I realized in healing it was something I couldn't do alone. I am thankful for my grief counselor. Now I hope to provide the same refuge for anyone hurting. Please try! I will help!
(828) 809-4458 View (828) 809-4458
Photo of Patty Hickham Tousey - Magnolia Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LCMHCA, Counselor
Magnolia Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, PhD, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Patty Hickham Tousey, PhD, LCMHCA. Life experiences, particularly traumatic events and relationships, impact all facets of life (all the way down to the nervous system), but we continue to move naturally towards healing and growth. I want to work with you to help facilitate that process! Self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-compassion are some of the essential foundations of wellness. I'm devoted to helping clients navigate their healing journey to cultivate a deep sense of self-love and understanding.
Patty Hickham Tousey, PhD, LCMHCA. Life experiences, particularly traumatic events and relationships, impact all facets of life (all the way down to the nervous system), but we continue to move naturally towards healing and growth. I want to work with you to help facilitate that process! Self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-compassion are some of the essential foundations of wellness. I'm devoted to helping clients navigate their healing journey to cultivate a deep sense of self-love and understanding.
(336) 664-8187 View (336) 664-8187
Photo of Janet Reading, PhD,  , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Reading
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, , LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
In my counseling practice, I focus on assisting those who are transitioning out of previously intimate relationships and support them as they seek to redefine and rediscover themselves as individuals. This process often involves re-examining one’s self-esteem, self-worth, values, and emotional security, all of which may have been threatened or damaged in former relationships. It is my firmly held clinical and personal belief that, following the ending of a relationship, we all have the choice as to whether we become bitter, or even better, as a result of our life’s experiences.
In my counseling practice, I focus on assisting those who are transitioning out of previously intimate relationships and support them as they seek to redefine and rediscover themselves as individuals. This process often involves re-examining one’s self-esteem, self-worth, values, and emotional security, all of which may have been threatened or damaged in former relationships. It is my firmly held clinical and personal belief that, following the ending of a relationship, we all have the choice as to whether we become bitter, or even better, as a result of our life’s experiences.
(828) 944-8021 View (828) 944-8021

See more therapy options for Catawba County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Catawba County, NC

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Catawba County, NC who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
64% Coping Skills
63% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Catawba County, NC see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Catawba County?

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.