Therapists in Granite Falls, NC

Photo of Amy Eades Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Amy Eades Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
Accepting only Telehealth patients in North Carolina and West Virginia. I have been working in the social work field for over 25 years and have focused in healthcare and crisis settings. I am hoping to connect with others who want to explore trauma and grief, anxiety and depression, however that may look for them.
Accepting only Telehealth patients in North Carolina and West Virginia. I have been working in the social work field for over 25 years and have focused in healthcare and crisis settings. I am hoping to connect with others who want to explore trauma and grief, anxiety and depression, however that may look for them.
(828) 202-8360 View (828) 202-8360
Photo of Stephanie L. Holmes, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, EdS, NCC, LCMHC
Stephanie L. Holmes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, EdS, NCC, LCMHC
3 Endorsed
Granite Falls, NC 28630
I approach counseling relationship with a sincere dedication to understanding each individual's unique needs and help clients to establish goals for personal growth and life changes. I perceive therapy as an avenue for individuals to gain self-awareness and understand their roles within the complexities of relationships.
I approach counseling relationship with a sincere dedication to understanding each individual's unique needs and help clients to establish goals for personal growth and life changes. I perceive therapy as an avenue for individuals to gain self-awareness and understand their roles within the complexities of relationships.
(828) 662-9441 View (828) 662-9441
Photo of Lori Breland, Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT
Lori Breland
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT
1 Endorsed
Granite Falls, NC 28630
I specialize in juvenile females aged 11-17 (18 if still in high school), but also enjoy working with adults. I work with anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, anger management, and a variety of other concerns that come with life. I incorporate a variety of modalities to create a treatment plan specific to your needs. I work closely with persons considered at risk to themselves or others, along with unhealthy sexualized behaviors in teens and adults to ensure a healthy, legal, and safe life.
I specialize in juvenile females aged 11-17 (18 if still in high school), but also enjoy working with adults. I work with anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, anger management, and a variety of other concerns that come with life. I incorporate a variety of modalities to create a treatment plan specific to your needs. I work closely with persons considered at risk to themselves or others, along with unhealthy sexualized behaviors in teens and adults to ensure a healthy, legal, and safe life.
(828) 319-2897 View (828) 319-2897
Photo of Patricia Bryant-Renfro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LCAS-A
Patricia Bryant-Renfro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LCAS-A
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a therapist and clinical director for Heart of Peace Counseling PLLC in Hickory, NC. I am committed to supporting individuals of all ages as they navigate the complexities of life who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, separation, or adjustments related to life challenges. I specialize in helping individuals heal from PTSD caused by traumatic experiences, such as abuse, neglect, domestic or community violence, natural disasters, injuries, or challenges faced by veterans. My goal is to empower clients to set meaningful goals, embrace change, find peace, and ultimately create a life filled with hope and resilience.
I am a therapist and clinical director for Heart of Peace Counseling PLLC in Hickory, NC. I am committed to supporting individuals of all ages as they navigate the complexities of life who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, separation, or adjustments related to life challenges. I specialize in helping individuals heal from PTSD caused by traumatic experiences, such as abuse, neglect, domestic or community violence, natural disasters, injuries, or challenges faced by veterans. My goal is to empower clients to set meaningful goals, embrace change, find peace, and ultimately create a life filled with hope and resilience.
(828) 855-2300 View (828) 855-2300

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allison Lane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Allison Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
Not accepting new clients
It takes courage to take the first step to participate in therapy. I begin my work with a focus on relationship building as the therapeutic relationship is essential to a successful therapy experience. I believe it is critical to view clients from a non-judgmental perspective, and recognize that each individual is capable of obtaining a meaningful life. I provide a safe space for clients to address the challenges that prevent them from living the life they desire. My role is to facilitate growth and meaning-making of those experiences that are most relevant to the clients I serve.
It takes courage to take the first step to participate in therapy. I begin my work with a focus on relationship building as the therapeutic relationship is essential to a successful therapy experience. I believe it is critical to view clients from a non-judgmental perspective, and recognize that each individual is capable of obtaining a meaningful life. I provide a safe space for clients to address the challenges that prevent them from living the life they desire. My role is to facilitate growth and meaning-making of those experiences that are most relevant to the clients I serve.
(828) 471-4590 View (828) 471-4590
Photo of Leslie Mckenna, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Leslie Mckenna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Hickory, NC 28601
I have been passionate about the care and wellness of adult women since I began practicing in the early 1990's. I have worked in a variety of settings that have given me helpful experience in treating issues that women commonly face such as body shame, unhealthy eating patterns, unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic and verbal abuse. I follow the latest research findings related to the neurological basis behind therapeutic change and make it a point to empower my clients by teaching them everything that I have learned about healthy change and skills that have been shown to nurture a sense of peace and wellbeing.
I have been passionate about the care and wellness of adult women since I began practicing in the early 1990's. I have worked in a variety of settings that have given me helpful experience in treating issues that women commonly face such as body shame, unhealthy eating patterns, unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic and verbal abuse. I follow the latest research findings related to the neurological basis behind therapeutic change and make it a point to empower my clients by teaching them everything that I have learned about healthy change and skills that have been shown to nurture a sense of peace and wellbeing.
(828) 354-4624 View (828) 354-4624
Photo of Shelley Haney, Pastoral Counselor, BS, BCCC
Shelley Haney
Pastoral Counselor, BS, BCCC
2 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
My life experiences and personal testimony is evidence of God's ability to restore and redeem. My journey in becoming a counselor has given me an understanding for the need to see others through God's perspective, a holistic view in providing care and compassion, while ministering to individuals using various resources and methods. No one person or situation is alike. The uniqueness to your story requires personal insight while allowing the Holy Spirit to heal the inner person. I use biblically based teaching intertwined with psychological tools, to minister to the entire person: mind, body, spirit, soul.
My life experiences and personal testimony is evidence of God's ability to restore and redeem. My journey in becoming a counselor has given me an understanding for the need to see others through God's perspective, a holistic view in providing care and compassion, while ministering to individuals using various resources and methods. No one person or situation is alike. The uniqueness to your story requires personal insight while allowing the Holy Spirit to heal the inner person. I use biblically based teaching intertwined with psychological tools, to minister to the entire person: mind, body, spirit, soul.
(828) 949-1267 View (828) 949-1267
Photo of Marissa Million, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Marissa Million
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
Mental Balance & Healing, PLLC helps individuals who want to invest in themselves, explore the difficult things in their life, and who are willing in doing the work it takes to see change occur. Individuals who want to look inward and see where they can be the change they want to see in situations life has given them. I specialize in working with those that have struggled with past trauma and are seeking to understand its effects on them now and actively want to make changes of personal growth. The healing process provides you the belief that you are worthy of effort, support, and self-love and I am happy to help you achieve that.
Mental Balance & Healing, PLLC helps individuals who want to invest in themselves, explore the difficult things in their life, and who are willing in doing the work it takes to see change occur. Individuals who want to look inward and see where they can be the change they want to see in situations life has given them. I specialize in working with those that have struggled with past trauma and are seeking to understand its effects on them now and actively want to make changes of personal growth. The healing process provides you the belief that you are worthy of effort, support, and self-love and I am happy to help you achieve that.
(828) 731-3247 View (828) 731-3247
Photo of Liza M. Shaw, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
Liza M. Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
(828) 202-3074 View (828) 202-3074
Photo of Alyssa Rockwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Alyssa Rockwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m dedicated to serving diverse populations including: mothers navigating postpartum who need emotional understanding; adolescents exploring identity and who deserve guidance in self-discovery; individuals managing substance use who require compassion and strategies for healing; college students coping with academic pressures and seeking balance; law enforcement officers facing emotional tolls; and couples seeking to strengthen their relationships. Each person’s unique story and resilience inspire me to provide the support they deserve.
I’m dedicated to serving diverse populations including: mothers navigating postpartum who need emotional understanding; adolescents exploring identity and who deserve guidance in self-discovery; individuals managing substance use who require compassion and strategies for healing; college students coping with academic pressures and seeking balance; law enforcement officers facing emotional tolls; and couples seeking to strengthen their relationships. Each person’s unique story and resilience inspire me to provide the support they deserve.
(910) 941-8692 View (910) 941-8692
Photo of Tamra Aguilera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tamra Aguilera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
Do you find yourself caught up in worrying thoughts associated with things in your past, present or future that negatively impact your sleep, confidence/self-esteem, and ability to make effective decisions? Has any of these issues impact your mood and how you relate to others and the world around you? Do you find yourself not having the energy or the motivation to get up and it seems you are just existing rather than living and enjoying life? I would like to invite you to come into an open, safe, non-judgmental environment where you can explore what is at the root of theses problems that weigh you down.
Do you find yourself caught up in worrying thoughts associated with things in your past, present or future that negatively impact your sleep, confidence/self-esteem, and ability to make effective decisions? Has any of these issues impact your mood and how you relate to others and the world around you? Do you find yourself not having the energy or the motivation to get up and it seems you are just existing rather than living and enjoying life? I would like to invite you to come into an open, safe, non-judgmental environment where you can explore what is at the root of theses problems that weigh you down.
(828) 360-9458 View (828) 360-9458
Photo of Christina Crim, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Christina Crim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Morganton, NC 28655
Not accepting new clients
I seek to create an open, safe space for others to truly feel comfortable exploring their struggles, their hopes and themselves. Using the healing power of connection and community, I believe the therapeutic relationship can be one that facilitates self-growth, resiliency, and empowerment of one's authentic self.
I seek to create an open, safe space for others to truly feel comfortable exploring their struggles, their hopes and themselves. Using the healing power of connection and community, I believe the therapeutic relationship can be one that facilitates self-growth, resiliency, and empowerment of one's authentic self.
(828) 554-2367 View (828) 554-2367
Photo of Jo Ann Orr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jo Ann Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
*Wait list only* I enjoy working with and supporting individuals who are curious and motivated to move through the "stuck places" we all find ourselves in from time to time. I believe that our bodies have an inherent wisdom that, when listened to through mindfulness, will help direct and focus the therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship/personal growth challenges, as well as people dealing with unresolved overwhelming experiences. I find great joy in walking with people on their journeys towards a more authentic, vibrant self...your own "True North"!
*Wait list only* I enjoy working with and supporting individuals who are curious and motivated to move through the "stuck places" we all find ourselves in from time to time. I believe that our bodies have an inherent wisdom that, when listened to through mindfulness, will help direct and focus the therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship/personal growth challenges, as well as people dealing with unresolved overwhelming experiences. I find great joy in walking with people on their journeys towards a more authentic, vibrant self...your own "True North"!
(828) 394-2417 x5 View (828) 394-2417 x5
Photo of Tom McDaniel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tom McDaniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I assist adults seeking help with mild dysthymia, situational depression or anxiety, stress, relationship problems, career concerns, loss, meaning, mortality and other existential issues. I tailor an approach specific to your need. Existential therapy is my foundation though I use an eclectic approach and draw upon various therapies. Therapy may be brief in duration or lengthy. It is sometimes uncomfortable - the "price" of honest introspection and change. I don't have your "answer" but will help you seek it. I strive - in the words of Irvin Yalom - to help "remove obstacles blocking the patient's path".
I assist adults seeking help with mild dysthymia, situational depression or anxiety, stress, relationship problems, career concerns, loss, meaning, mortality and other existential issues. I tailor an approach specific to your need. Existential therapy is my foundation though I use an eclectic approach and draw upon various therapies. Therapy may be brief in duration or lengthy. It is sometimes uncomfortable - the "price" of honest introspection and change. I don't have your "answer" but will help you seek it. I strive - in the words of Irvin Yalom - to help "remove obstacles blocking the patient's path".
(704) 380-9245 View (704) 380-9245
Photo of Lucy Holliday, Counselor, NCC, MA, LCMHCA
Lucy Holliday
Counselor, NCC, MA, LCMHCA
3 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
Scheduling clients on Wednesdays, 9AM-4PM. Every season of life brings its own unique challenges. Sometimes it may feel like your past is haunting you, the fear of the future may make it difficult to remain present or maybe relational issues are adding stress to your life. Whatever the concern, it can be difficult to carry anxiety, depression, grief, stress or trauma, while also trying to show up and function in everyday life. I aim to provide support, coping skills, a space to be free to not be okay, as we move towards what you are hoping for your future. I offer faith based support as desired.
Scheduling clients on Wednesdays, 9AM-4PM. Every season of life brings its own unique challenges. Sometimes it may feel like your past is haunting you, the fear of the future may make it difficult to remain present or maybe relational issues are adding stress to your life. Whatever the concern, it can be difficult to carry anxiety, depression, grief, stress or trauma, while also trying to show up and function in everyday life. I aim to provide support, coping skills, a space to be free to not be okay, as we move towards what you are hoping for your future. I offer faith based support as desired.
View
Photo of Dr. Dominique Hammonds, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Dr. Dominique Hammonds
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
6 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28603
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual clinical mental health counseling, couples counseling, clinical supervision, training, education, and consultation services specializing in culturally conscious practice, cultural, gender, and sexual identity development, sex therapy, and improving emotional connection and communication skills in relationship.
I provide individual clinical mental health counseling, couples counseling, clinical supervision, training, education, and consultation services specializing in culturally conscious practice, cultural, gender, and sexual identity development, sex therapy, and improving emotional connection and communication skills in relationship.
(980) 223-3446 View (980) 223-3446
Photo of Joseph Randolph Carlton - Life Adjustment Solutions, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Life Adjustment Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
(828) 572-7216 View (828) 572-7216
Photo of Margaret Huss, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Margaret Huss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Morganton, NC 28655
Life transitions are a part of our journey and, while some are rewarding, some are a challenge. Whether you are struggling with something personally or professionally, you could benefit from working with a therapist who understands and can help guide you through the work to initiate change in your life. My approach is holistic, honest, and interactive with a little humor thrown in when needed. Clients appreciate my authenticity and ability to “be real” with them regarding how best to tackle current issues and concerns. I encourage my clients to start with small steps and move toward what speaks to their heart and their values.
Life transitions are a part of our journey and, while some are rewarding, some are a challenge. Whether you are struggling with something personally or professionally, you could benefit from working with a therapist who understands and can help guide you through the work to initiate change in your life. My approach is holistic, honest, and interactive with a little humor thrown in when needed. Clients appreciate my authenticity and ability to “be real” with them regarding how best to tackle current issues and concerns. I encourage my clients to start with small steps and move toward what speaks to their heart and their values.
(828) 554-7720 x101 View (828) 554-7720 x101
Photo of Lenni M Travis, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Lenni M Travis
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Online Only
As a therapist, I believe that the cornerstone of effective therapy lies in meeting clients where they are in their journey, fostering a space of empathy and understanding. Being grounded in the principles of positive psychology, I focus on identifying and amplifying your inherent strengths, enabling my clients to build resilience and navigate challenges with confidence. As a Clinician, I work to establish rapport, create a safe and trusting environment where my clients feel heard, accepted, and empowered to explore their thoughts and feelings.
As a therapist, I believe that the cornerstone of effective therapy lies in meeting clients where they are in their journey, fostering a space of empathy and understanding. Being grounded in the principles of positive psychology, I focus on identifying and amplifying your inherent strengths, enabling my clients to build resilience and navigate challenges with confidence. As a Clinician, I work to establish rapport, create a safe and trusting environment where my clients feel heard, accepted, and empowered to explore their thoughts and feelings.
(828) 439-0836 View (828) 439-0836
Photo of Mariana R Glass, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Mariana R Glass
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Lenoir, NC 28645
I offer clinical counseling services from a Christian perspective. I work with adults 18+ years of age, and enjoy the collaborative process of our counseling work together. This work includes developing a trusting relationship between us, exploring the client's interests and concerns, and identifying goals and strategies for these areas. The work of counseling can be deeply meaningful, healing, and liberating as we invest together in the process.
I offer clinical counseling services from a Christian perspective. I work with adults 18+ years of age, and enjoy the collaborative process of our counseling work together. This work includes developing a trusting relationship between us, exploring the client's interests and concerns, and identifying goals and strategies for these areas. The work of counseling can be deeply meaningful, healing, and liberating as we invest together in the process.
(828) 523-8695 View (828) 523-8695

See more therapy options for Granite Falls

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Granite Falls, NC

< 10

Therapists in Granite Falls, NC who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Coping Skills
75% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Career Counseling

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Granite Falls, NC see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Granite Falls?

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.