Therapists in Conover, NC

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
You’ve been holding it together for years—at work, at home, or in your relationships—but lately it feels like the wheels are coming off. You’re anxious, burned out, and stuck in patterns that drain you. Maybe it’s people-pleasing, overworking, or using things to numb the stress. You crave clarity, calm, and real tools to communicate better, set boundaries that hold, and feel steady again. You want to stop just getting by and start living with balance, confidence, and purpose. If you’re ready for things to finally change, I can help you get there.
You’ve been holding it together for years—at work, at home, or in your relationships—but lately it feels like the wheels are coming off. You’re anxious, burned out, and stuck in patterns that drain you. Maybe it’s people-pleasing, overworking, or using things to numb the stress. You crave clarity, calm, and real tools to communicate better, set boundaries that hold, and feel steady again. You want to stop just getting by and start living with balance, confidence, and purpose. If you’re ready for things to finally change, I can help you get there.
(828) 705-3490 View (828) 705-3490
Photo of Charles Orwig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSWCP, CSAT-C
Charles Orwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSWCP, CSAT-C
1 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
My name is Charles, and my areas of focus are Trauma, Couples Counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Porn, Sex Addiction, betrayal, and infedility. Are you feeling stuck in conflict, disconnection in your relationship, or maybe behavioral patterns that feel out of control? Or maybe trapped in cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and lack of purpose? Imagine freeing yourself from the pain of the past and rebuilding trust, balance, and meaning. I invite you to take this journey with me—to create a beautiful, authentic, and purposeful life.
My name is Charles, and my areas of focus are Trauma, Couples Counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Porn, Sex Addiction, betrayal, and infedility. Are you feeling stuck in conflict, disconnection in your relationship, or maybe behavioral patterns that feel out of control? Or maybe trapped in cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and lack of purpose? Imagine freeing yourself from the pain of the past and rebuilding trust, balance, and meaning. I invite you to take this journey with me—to create a beautiful, authentic, and purposeful life.
(828) 532-3290 View (828) 532-3290
Photo of Fay Hand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSWA
Fay Hand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSWA
2 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
Waitlist for new clients
I want you to know that you are NOT alone and healing is possible. Attending therapy is not easy. No one wakes up excited to talk about their struggles, pain, or trauma, and yet, there’s real courage in choosing to face what’s difficult rather than avoid it. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression or unsolved trauma; you don't have to face it alone. I take time to truly listen to your story, understand your goals, and build a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and empowered.
I want you to know that you are NOT alone and healing is possible. Attending therapy is not easy. No one wakes up excited to talk about their struggles, pain, or trauma, and yet, there’s real courage in choosing to face what’s difficult rather than avoid it. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression or unsolved trauma; you don't have to face it alone. I take time to truly listen to your story, understand your goals, and build a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and empowered.
(828) 445-1873 View (828) 445-1873
Photo of Julie Dollar - WWM Hickory, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA
WWM Hickory
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA
Conover, NC 28613
Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck? Real change starts with connection. At Walk With Me, we help you reconnect to yourself in a safe, supportive environment while working through trauma, anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges. Using a hands-on approach that goes beyond traditional therapy, integrating horses, nature, and counseling or coaching. We tailor each experience to your unique needs. You’ll build emotional awareness, strengthen relationships, and gain the clarity, confidence, and tools to move forward, at your pace, in your way.
Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck? Real change starts with connection. At Walk With Me, we help you reconnect to yourself in a safe, supportive environment while working through trauma, anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges. Using a hands-on approach that goes beyond traditional therapy, integrating horses, nature, and counseling or coaching. We tailor each experience to your unique needs. You’ll build emotional awareness, strengthen relationships, and gain the clarity, confidence, and tools to move forward, at your pace, in your way.
(828) 394-4105 View (828) 394-4105
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
Waitlist for new clients
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 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 Patricia Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Conover, NC 28613
My goal is to create a safe space where we can build a therapeutic partnership. I am here to support you and empower you to become the expert in your own healing. I believe that self-determination is valuable in helping each individual achieve their personal life goals.
My goal is to create a safe space where we can build a therapeutic partnership. I am here to support you and empower you to become the expert in your own healing. I believe that self-determination is valuable in helping each individual achieve their personal life goals.
(980) 372-6342 View (980) 372-6342
Photo of Melissa Kerekes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Melissa Kerekes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You are not broken, and you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. If you’re here, it’s because some part of you is seeking understanding, support, or change, and that matters.
You are not broken, and you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. If you’re here, it’s because some part of you is seeking understanding, support, or change, and that matters.
(980) 303-6730 View (980) 303-6730
Photo of Nicole Sherrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nicole Sherrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Conover, NC 28613
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 Charles G Orwig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Charles G Orwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Conover, NC 28613
You're feeling overwhelmed at work, disconnected from your partner, or withdrawing from the people who matter most. No matter how hard you try, the same thoughts, emotions, and behaviors keep showing up, leaving you stuck in patterns that aren't serving you. I help clients identify the beliefs and thinking patterns that drive emotional distress and unhealthy behaviors. Together, we'll develop practical strategies to challenge those patterns, create lasting change, and help you move toward the life and relationships you want.
You're feeling overwhelmed at work, disconnected from your partner, or withdrawing from the people who matter most. No matter how hard you try, the same thoughts, emotions, and behaviors keep showing up, leaving you stuck in patterns that aren't serving you. I help clients identify the beliefs and thinking patterns that drive emotional distress and unhealthy behaviors. Together, we'll develop practical strategies to challenge those patterns, create lasting change, and help you move toward the life and relationships you want.
(828) 608-1469 View (828) 608-1469
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 G Orwig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Charles G Orwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Online Only
My name is Charles, and my areas of focus are Trauma, Couples Counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Porn, Sex Addiction, betrayal, and infedility. Are you feeling stuck in conflict, disconnection in your relationship, or maybe behavioral patterns that feel out of control? Or maybe trapped in cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and lack of purpose? Imagine freeing yourself from the pain of the past and rebuilding trust, balance, and meaning. I invite you to take this journey with me—to create a beautiful, authentic, and purposeful life.
My name is Charles, and my areas of focus are Trauma, Couples Counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Porn, Sex Addiction, betrayal, and infedility. Are you feeling stuck in conflict, disconnection in your relationship, or maybe behavioral patterns that feel out of control? Or maybe trapped in cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, and lack of purpose? Imagine freeing yourself from the pain of the past and rebuilding trust, balance, and meaning. I invite you to take this journey with me—to create a beautiful, authentic, and purposeful life.
(207) 517-0122 View (207) 517-0122
Photo of Mia Redmond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Mia Redmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
2 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 Taryn Sweeting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Taryn Sweeting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
4 Endorsed
Conover, NC 28613
Are you seeing anxiety, isolation, opposition? Seeing your child struggle with these feelings and behaviors can be very overwhelming and lonely. If it's too much, I can help. Realistic and customized ways to reduce these challenges is the approach my clients find most helpful. I focus on parenting and couple issues as well, helping to strengthen bonds and promote the desired change. Individuals who face anxiety, grief and loss, transition and other challenges deserve support and non-judgement.
Are you seeing anxiety, isolation, opposition? Seeing your child struggle with these feelings and behaviors can be very overwhelming and lonely. If it's too much, I can help. Realistic and customized ways to reduce these challenges is the approach my clients find most helpful. I focus on parenting and couple issues as well, helping to strengthen bonds and promote the desired change. Individuals who face anxiety, grief and loss, transition and other challenges deserve support and non-judgement.
(704) 994-8601 View (704) 994-8601
Photo of Sarah Roda, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, RMHCI, LCMHCA
Sarah Roda
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, RMHCI, LCMHCA
Serves Area
I work with adults and teens who feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Whether you’re carrying unresolved grief, trauma, anxiety, or struggle with mood dysregulation, I help you move beyond just understanding your struggles and into creating real change. Many of my clients know the “why” but want support turning insight into action. I offer an honest and empowering space to explore what’s underneath the surface. Together we build practical tools, and reconnect with your authentic self so you can feel more grounded, capable, and confident in your life.
I work with adults and teens who feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Whether you’re carrying unresolved grief, trauma, anxiety, or struggle with mood dysregulation, I help you move beyond just understanding your struggles and into creating real change. Many of my clients know the “why” but want support turning insight into action. I offer an honest and empowering space to explore what’s underneath the surface. Together we build practical tools, and reconnect with your authentic self so you can feel more grounded, capable, and confident in your life.
(828) 263-4226 View (828) 263-4226
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
15 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 Runy Thao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Runy Thao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
It can be difficult to make sense of our life experiences, especially when we’re carrying the weight of expectations from others and from ourselves. We often ask, what do my struggles, my pain, and my story say about who I am? My desire is to offer a safe and brave space where you can process those experiences and begin to understand them in a new way. I have experience working with adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the need for healthier coping skills.
It can be difficult to make sense of our life experiences, especially when we’re carrying the weight of expectations from others and from ourselves. We often ask, what do my struggles, my pain, and my story say about who I am? My desire is to offer a safe and brave space where you can process those experiences and begin to understand them in a new way. I have experience working with adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the need for healthier coping skills.
(828) 521-0483 View (828) 521-0483
Photo of Yer Vang, Counselor, LCMHC
Yer Vang
Counselor, LCMHC
Serves Area
I serve adolescents, youth, and adults, and specifically work with patients who have depression, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADD, ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mood disorders, grief and bereavement, life adjustments, self-esteem, self-image, suicidal ideations, non suicidal self injurious behavior, family and relationship dysfunction, and more. For all patients that have searched for validation and understanding, I create a safe space. I hope to be the supportive individual you are looking for.
I serve adolescents, youth, and adults, and specifically work with patients who have depression, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADD, ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mood disorders, grief and bereavement, life adjustments, self-esteem, self-image, suicidal ideations, non suicidal self injurious behavior, family and relationship dysfunction, and more. For all patients that have searched for validation and understanding, I create a safe space. I hope to be the supportive individual you are looking for.
(828) 827-0038 View (828) 827-0038
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 Amy Leonard, LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA
Amy Leonard
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA
Mooresville, NC 28117
My ideal clients are individuals and couples seeking support with trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and personal growth. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community in an affirming and supportive environment. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or impacted by past experiences that continue to affect their daily lives and relationships. Using a collaborative, strengths-based approach and EMDR-informed therapy, I help clients process difficult experiences, build healthy coping skills, strengthen relationships, and move toward healing and lasting change.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples seeking support with trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and personal growth. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community in an affirming and supportive environment. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or impacted by past experiences that continue to affect their daily lives and relationships. Using a collaborative, strengths-based approach and EMDR-informed therapy, I help clients process difficult experiences, build healthy coping skills, strengthen relationships, and move toward healing and lasting change.
(980) 247-4758 View (980) 247-4758

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Conover, NC

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Conover, NC who prioritize treating:

95% Trauma and PTSD
95% Complex PTSD
95% Medical Trauma
89% Depression
89% Anxiety
89% Social Anxiety
89% Health Anxiety

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% Aetna
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Conover, NC see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% 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.