Therapists in Conover, NC

Photo of Stephanie English, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Stephanie English
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
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 Colleen C Collins - Family Matters Counseling Services, PLLC , Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Family Matters Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
1 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
Do you struggle with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Addiction, Parenting Issues, Relationship Issues, or want Premarital Counseling? I can provide you with tools to help you navigate through these issues, provide hope, and lead you on a path to success.
Do you struggle with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Addiction, Parenting Issues, Relationship Issues, or want Premarital Counseling? I can provide you with tools to help you navigate through these issues, provide hope, and lead you on a path to success.
(828) 373-8194 View (828) 373-8194
Photo of Shavodka Love Nowacki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Shavodka Love Nowacki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to be there for you every step of your journey. Working to help others heal, grow, and be empowered to live your best life.
My goal is to be there for you every step of your journey. Working to help others heal, grow, and be empowered to live your best life.
(828) 761-3958 View (828) 761-3958
Kitty Conley Benfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
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 Charles Orwig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSWCP, LCAS-A
Charles Orwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSWCP, LCAS-A
1 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety, self-doubt, and lack of purpose. Feeling “blah” and can’t put your finger on why? Imagine what it would feel like to free yourself from the chains of the past. I invite you to take this journey with me, and we can work together to build the life you want to live. A beautiful and purposeful life. I look forward to working with you.
Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety, self-doubt, and lack of purpose. Feeling “blah” and can’t put your finger on why? Imagine what it would feel like to free yourself from the chains of the past. I invite you to take this journey with me, and we can work together to build the life you want to live. A beautiful and purposeful life. I look forward to working with you.
(828) 532-3290 View (828) 532-3290
Photo of Randy Withers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS
Randy Withers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS
6 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
Tired of feeling stuck? Burnt out? Sick and tired of being sick and tired? You don’t have to keep spinning your wheels. If you’re dealing with burnout, substance use, relationship struggles, grief, anxiety, or depression, I can help you cut through the noise and start making real changes. I work with men and women who are ready to face their challenges head-on. While I have a special focus on men’s mental health, I also work with teens, fellow clinicians, and members of the LGB community. If you’re tired of overthinking and ready to take action, I’m here to help.
Tired of feeling stuck? Burnt out? Sick and tired of being sick and tired? You don’t have to keep spinning your wheels. If you’re dealing with burnout, substance use, relationship struggles, grief, anxiety, or depression, I can help you cut through the noise and start making real changes. I work with men and women who are ready to face their challenges head-on. While I have a special focus on men’s mental health, I also work with teens, fellow clinicians, and members of the LGB community. If you’re tired of overthinking and ready to take action, I’m here to help.
(828) 705-3490 View (828) 705-3490
Photo of Nicole Sherrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nicole Sherrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Conover, NC 28613
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is someone who carries a great deal of emotional weight and feels overwhelmed. You may be navigating past trauma, a difficult transition into parenthood, or the unique challenges of aging. You may be experiencing conflict with your partner or struggling with other relationships. You may feel stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or feel as if parts of you are battling against each other. You may feel scared or nervous about seeking help, but have a willingness to explore new approaches to finding your "North" - your unique inner compass - and reconnecting with a deeper understanding of identity and growth.
My ideal client is someone who carries a great deal of emotional weight and feels overwhelmed. You may be navigating past trauma, a difficult transition into parenthood, or the unique challenges of aging. You may be experiencing conflict with your partner or struggling with other relationships. You may feel stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or feel as if parts of you are battling against each other. You may feel scared or nervous about seeking help, but have a willingness to explore new approaches to finding your "North" - your unique inner compass - and reconnecting with a deeper understanding of identity and growth.
(828) 383-8486 View (828) 383-8486
Photo of Kazandra Bishop, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Kazandra Bishop
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
1 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
Everyone's story is unique; shaped by family, culture, personal beliefs and experiences. Life can be full of challenges that are overwhelming and difficult to cope with. You can get trapped in unhealthy patterns of behavior or toxic relationships. Whether you are struggling with minor stumbling blocks or tackling life altering challenges, you have the power and ability to overcome them. I aim to create a safe space where you can share your narrative and know that you are heard and understood.
Everyone's story is unique; shaped by family, culture, personal beliefs and experiences. Life can be full of challenges that are overwhelming and difficult to cope with. You can get trapped in unhealthy patterns of behavior or toxic relationships. Whether you are struggling with minor stumbling blocks or tackling life altering challenges, you have the power and ability to overcome them. I aim to create a safe space where you can share your narrative and know that you are heard and understood.
(704) 237-0104 View (704) 237-0104
Photo of Janice M. Blocker, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Janice M. Blocker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Janice Blocker. Are you or someone you love struggling with mental health challenges? I may be able to help. What are your goals? Do you need a little motivation to reach the next level? Sometimes, you just need an active listener. I can help guide you to a better understanding of yourself, I can be a coach or your biggest cheerleader. Therapy is about you, your needs and what you want to achieve with therapy. I hope I can get a chance to meet you!
Hello, my name is Janice Blocker. Are you or someone you love struggling with mental health challenges? I may be able to help. What are your goals? Do you need a little motivation to reach the next level? Sometimes, you just need an active listener. I can help guide you to a better understanding of yourself, I can be a coach or your biggest cheerleader. Therapy is about you, your needs and what you want to achieve with therapy. I hope I can get a chance to meet you!
(828) 770-9573 View (828) 770-9573
Photo of Mia Redmond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Mia Redmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is a woman tired of holding it all together while feeling like she's falling apart inside. She’s overwhelmed by anxiety, past trauma, and the pressure to be perfect. Deep down, she wants to set boundaries, stop people-pleasing, and finally feel free to be her full, authentic self. She’s ready to heal, be seen, and supported in a space where she doesn’t have to be strong all the time. If that sounds like you—you’re in the right place. Let’s begin your journey toward peace, purpose, and radical self-love.
My ideal client is a woman tired of holding it all together while feeling like she's falling apart inside. She’s overwhelmed by anxiety, past trauma, and the pressure to be perfect. Deep down, she wants to set boundaries, stop people-pleasing, and finally feel free to be her full, authentic self. She’s ready to heal, be seen, and supported in a space where she doesn’t have to be strong all the time. If that sounds like you—you’re in the right place. Let’s begin your journey toward peace, purpose, and radical self-love.
(980) 372-6226 View (980) 372-6226
Photo of Mike Nichols - Renovo Christian Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, MRE, MFS, LMFT
Renovo Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MRE, MFS, LMFT
Serves Area
Mike Nichols, MRE, MFS, LMFT - The mission of Renovo Christian Counseling is to help bring renewal and restoration to your life and relationships. It is to partner with you to discover and apply practical and enduring solutions to the issues with which you struggle. Whatever the need that motivates you to seek counsel, I believe you can achieve healing, growth and change. It is my calling to help couples and individuals in that endeavor.
Mike Nichols, MRE, MFS, LMFT - The mission of Renovo Christian Counseling is to help bring renewal and restoration to your life and relationships. It is to partner with you to discover and apply practical and enduring solutions to the issues with which you struggle. Whatever the need that motivates you to seek counsel, I believe you can achieve healing, growth and change. It is my calling to help couples and individuals in that endeavor.
(828) 394-2759 View (828) 394-2759
Photo of Crystal Hulett - Thrive Counseling and Wellness - Hickory, Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LCMHC
Thrive Counseling and Wellness - Hickory
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LCMHC
17 Endorsed
Serves Area
Thrive Counseling and Wellness is made up of talented and dedicated therapists who specialize in a number of issues being faced by people of all ages. Our therapists work with you to meet the goals you have to create your best life. Thrive Counseling and Wellness has male and female therapists with flexible hours that accommodate most client's schedules. Whether you're a professional looking to be more productive, a parent feeling lost about your teen or young child, a couple feeling stuck in a rut, or someone just wanting to feel better overall, the therapists at Thrive are excited to help you begin your journey to wellness.
Thrive Counseling and Wellness is made up of talented and dedicated therapists who specialize in a number of issues being faced by people of all ages. Our therapists work with you to meet the goals you have to create your best life. Thrive Counseling and Wellness has male and female therapists with flexible hours that accommodate most client's schedules. Whether you're a professional looking to be more productive, a parent feeling lost about your teen or young child, a couple feeling stuck in a rut, or someone just wanting to feel better overall, the therapists at Thrive are excited to help you begin your journey to wellness.
(828) 662-8781 View (828) 662-8781
Photo of Ivana Dula, Counselor, LCMHCA
Ivana Dula
Counselor, LCMHCA
Serves Area
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, navigating depression, processing trauma, or simply feeling ready to explore the challenges in your life, you’ve taken an important step by considering counseling. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions throughout North Carolina to make prioritizing your mental health as simple and accessible as possible. I believe you are the expert in your own life, with valuable insights and experiences that can guide the path toward healing and growth. Together, we can create a space to explore your goals and develop a plan that works for you.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, navigating depression, processing trauma, or simply feeling ready to explore the challenges in your life, you’ve taken an important step by considering counseling. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions throughout North Carolina to make prioritizing your mental health as simple and accessible as possible. I believe you are the expert in your own life, with valuable insights and experiences that can guide the path toward healing and growth. Together, we can create a space to explore your goals and develop a plan that works for you.
(828) 382-8498 View (828) 382-8498
Photo of Runy Thao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Runy Thao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
It can be difficult to process our life experiences through the expectations we may feel from others and ourselves. What does our suffering, struggles, and experiences say about who we are? My desire is to provide a safe and brave place for individuals who may need to process and make sense of their experiences. I have worked with adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, and adults who have needed coping skills and are in the middle of life transitions.
It can be difficult to process our life experiences through the expectations we may feel from others and ourselves. What does our suffering, struggles, and experiences say about who we are? My desire is to provide a safe and brave place for individuals who may need to process and make sense of their experiences. I have worked with adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, and adults who have needed coping skills and are in the middle of life transitions.
(828) 521-0483 View (828) 521-0483
Photo of Catherine Elizabeth Cochran, Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Catherine Elizabeth Cochran
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Serves Area
Have you chosen to embrace your wellness, and explore and pursue your goals? Are you ready to address your challenges in a supportive, non-judgmental environment? Depression, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed and unsupported, struggling with anger and relationships can make you feel alone and afraid. You are not alone and you are brave. When you are ready to make a change in your life, counseling can help.
Have you chosen to embrace your wellness, and explore and pursue your goals? Are you ready to address your challenges in a supportive, non-judgmental environment? Depression, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed and unsupported, struggling with anger and relationships can make you feel alone and afraid. You are not alone and you are brave. When you are ready to make a change in your life, counseling can help.
(980) 858-5157 View (980) 858-5157

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Deanna Cuccinello, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Deanna Cuccinello
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Mooresville, NC 28117
Life’s challenges can be overwhelming, and sometimes we need help. Perhaps you're experiencing a life transition or feel disconnected and find it hard to manage your emotions. Our thoughts, feelings and behaviors influence every area of our lives, often negatively impacting our relationships, our work and self-care. Seeking support is a significant first step in honoring your need for growth and change. I offer a safe place to be heard and understood and collaboratively we will identify therapeutic goals. I affirm clients from all backgrounds, gender expression/identity, sexual orientation, race, culture, and ability status.
Life’s challenges can be overwhelming, and sometimes we need help. Perhaps you're experiencing a life transition or feel disconnected and find it hard to manage your emotions. Our thoughts, feelings and behaviors influence every area of our lives, often negatively impacting our relationships, our work and self-care. Seeking support is a significant first step in honoring your need for growth and change. I offer a safe place to be heard and understood and collaboratively we will identify therapeutic goals. I affirm clients from all backgrounds, gender expression/identity, sexual orientation, race, culture, and ability status.
(980) 949-0853 View (980) 949-0853
Photo of Ebony Martinez - Calm Counseled Thoughts, PLLC, EdD, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Calm Counseled Thoughts, PLLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Living with childhood wounds and any negative life experiences can impact your current living, leading to depression, moodiness, fear of trusting others, and other social hesitations that reflect lowered confidence and more. Seeing your truth negatively impact your work life, relationships, and view of self can lead to fear of rejection, abandonment, and isolation. With a doctoral clinical focus on all things trauma, I aim to work with you where you are to assist you with clearly defining how healing can lead to improved living. I only work with individuals 18+. I am licensed in North and South Carolina. Let's Connect!
Living with childhood wounds and any negative life experiences can impact your current living, leading to depression, moodiness, fear of trusting others, and other social hesitations that reflect lowered confidence and more. Seeing your truth negatively impact your work life, relationships, and view of self can lead to fear of rejection, abandonment, and isolation. With a doctoral clinical focus on all things trauma, I aim to work with you where you are to assist you with clearly defining how healing can lead to improved living. I only work with individuals 18+. I am licensed in North and South Carolina. Let's Connect!
(704) 270-5765 View (704) 270-5765
Photo of Brittany Steele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Brittany Steele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Mooresville, NC 28117
Hi, I am so glad you are here! I am a former military spouse who has moved around the country over the last decade. I have several years' experience in the mental health field; however, I am so excited to finally be in private practice! I have previous experience working with children, teens, and adults. I particularly enjoy working with LGBT+, active-duty military and veterans, and new or expecting moms/parents. I am also passionate about helping people navigate divorce, coparenting, grief, anxiety, depression, ADHD/neurodivergence, PTSD, and career and life changes.
Hi, I am so glad you are here! I am a former military spouse who has moved around the country over the last decade. I have several years' experience in the mental health field; however, I am so excited to finally be in private practice! I have previous experience working with children, teens, and adults. I particularly enjoy working with LGBT+, active-duty military and veterans, and new or expecting moms/parents. I am also passionate about helping people navigate divorce, coparenting, grief, anxiety, depression, ADHD/neurodivergence, PTSD, and career and life changes.
(980) 291-7472 View (980) 291-7472
Photo of Annie Day (Elizabeth Day), LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHCA, MBA
Annie Day (Elizabeth Day)
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHCA, MBA
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Does your best feel like it's never enough? I’m glad you’re here. You might be feeling exhausted, defeated, or overwhelmed. Our darkest or most hectic times are often when we feel the most isolated and unheard. Therapy can help you find the light you need, and help you reconnect to the world and yourself. Pause, and give yourself credit for taking a step toward bettering your mental health today. I believe that you already have the strength & resilience within you to heal and grow, sometimes we all just need some help. Above all else, I want you to know that it’s okay not to be okay & that it’s possible for things to get better.
Does your best feel like it's never enough? I’m glad you’re here. You might be feeling exhausted, defeated, or overwhelmed. Our darkest or most hectic times are often when we feel the most isolated and unheard. Therapy can help you find the light you need, and help you reconnect to the world and yourself. Pause, and give yourself credit for taking a step toward bettering your mental health today. I believe that you already have the strength & resilience within you to heal and grow, sometimes we all just need some help. Above all else, I want you to know that it’s okay not to be okay & that it’s possible for things to get better.
(704) 228-9172 View (704) 228-9172
Photo of Shay Anna Clark - Catawba Valley Neurofeedback and Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BCN, MA
Catawba Valley Neurofeedback and Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BCN, MA
Hickory, NC 28602
Have you ever caught a glimpse of the favorite version of yourself? What does that look like for you? Do you want to find out what it takes to be able to enjoy yourself on this level more often, or even permanently? By achieving optimal brain health you can feel amazing! Shay has been transforming brains for 10+ years, including her own! With a combination of educating you about your own brain health status and utilizing brain training referred to as neurofeedback, you can discover your favorite version of self.
Have you ever caught a glimpse of the favorite version of yourself? What does that look like for you? Do you want to find out what it takes to be able to enjoy yourself on this level more often, or even permanently? By achieving optimal brain health you can feel amazing! Shay has been transforming brains for 10+ years, including her own! With a combination of educating you about your own brain health status and utilizing brain training referred to as neurofeedback, you can discover your favorite version of self.
(828) 522-5763 View (828) 522-5763

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Conover, NC

10+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Conover, NC who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
87% Anxiety
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Coping Skills
80% Self Esteem
80% Stress
73% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
85% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Conover, NC see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Conover?

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.