Therapists in Huntersville, NC

Photo of Patsy Shinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Patsy Shinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I earned my master's degree from East Carolina University and have spent the past 25 years walking alongside individuals and families through some of life's most challenging experiences. My passion is helping adults who are struggling with substance use begin their recovery journey and uncover the deeper issues that may be fueling those behaviors. I also work closely with family members, offering support, coping tools, and guidance in setting healthy boundaries.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I earned my master's degree from East Carolina University and have spent the past 25 years walking alongside individuals and families through some of life's most challenging experiences. My passion is helping adults who are struggling with substance use begin their recovery journey and uncover the deeper issues that may be fueling those behaviors. I also work closely with family members, offering support, coping tools, and guidance in setting healthy boundaries.
(980) 409-5713 View (980) 409-5713
Photo of Spencer Setcavage, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Spencer Setcavage
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Huntersville, NC 28078
“I feel lost, and no one could possibly begin to help me” “I often wonder what is wrong with me, what can I do differently?” Have you or someone you know ever expressed these ideas? Would you like to start making sense of your life, relationships, lived experiences and/or trauma? I am here to help you start working towards positive change in your life in the areas you choose. You do not have to do this alone. If there is a part of you that is looking to heal and grow, I want to work with you. Today can be the day that you start feeling better and being the person, you want to be.
“I feel lost, and no one could possibly begin to help me” “I often wonder what is wrong with me, what can I do differently?” Have you or someone you know ever expressed these ideas? Would you like to start making sense of your life, relationships, lived experiences and/or trauma? I am here to help you start working towards positive change in your life in the areas you choose. You do not have to do this alone. If there is a part of you that is looking to heal and grow, I want to work with you. Today can be the day that you start feeling better and being the person, you want to be.
(980) 342-4989 View (980) 342-4989
Photo of Shacoya Graham, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCASA
Shacoya Graham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCASA
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you struggling to have the life you want or find yourself stuck in a relationship or life pattern that is unfulfilling? Moving through the world alone can become overwhelming and leave you feeling lost. As you go through life’s changes and challenges, you can come upon a conflict that leaves you feeling trapped, alone, and unable to move forward with creating the life that you want to live. Believing that individuals are the experts of their lives, I will empower you to become the author of your own story. I promote healing, growth, and change through a strength-based lens.
Are you struggling to have the life you want or find yourself stuck in a relationship or life pattern that is unfulfilling? Moving through the world alone can become overwhelming and leave you feeling lost. As you go through life’s changes and challenges, you can come upon a conflict that leaves you feeling trapped, alone, and unable to move forward with creating the life that you want to live. Believing that individuals are the experts of their lives, I will empower you to become the author of your own story. I promote healing, growth, and change through a strength-based lens.
(980) 246-3613 View (980) 246-3613
Photo of Mary Jane McGill, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Mary Jane McGill
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Over the last 45+ years I have had family and friends ask why I stay in the counseling field. My usual answer is, “Because I love it”. I am grateful to have two areas of the counseling field that are important to me. One as a counselor and one as a consultant providing clinical supervision/training/administrative and quality assurance guidance. By having the ability to work in both counseling and management arenas I am able to provide counseling to my clients, facilitate trainings in North Carolina, assist new counselors with improving their knowledge and skills, and provide consultation to other agencies.
Over the last 45+ years I have had family and friends ask why I stay in the counseling field. My usual answer is, “Because I love it”. I am grateful to have two areas of the counseling field that are important to me. One as a counselor and one as a consultant providing clinical supervision/training/administrative and quality assurance guidance. By having the ability to work in both counseling and management arenas I am able to provide counseling to my clients, facilitate trainings in North Carolina, assist new counselors with improving their knowledge and skills, and provide consultation to other agencies.
(336) 203-8833 View (336) 203-8833
Photo of Elizabeth C Hutcheson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Elizabeth C Hutcheson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
(704) 216-4064 View (704) 216-4064
Photo of Serenity Reininger, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serenity Reininger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Not accepting new clients
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? Are unsure how to manage your emotions or do you have desire to build more confidence in who you are? You are not alone, and you don't have to navigate it by yourself. I work with individuals who are ready to set healthy boundaries, work through people-pleasing tendencies, communicate more clearly, and step into their worth. I work with couples who are feelings disconnected or stuck in unproductive communication patterns. Together, we work to strengthen your connection, improve how you communicate, and work to having a relationship you are excited to be in.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? Are unsure how to manage your emotions or do you have desire to build more confidence in who you are? You are not alone, and you don't have to navigate it by yourself. I work with individuals who are ready to set healthy boundaries, work through people-pleasing tendencies, communicate more clearly, and step into their worth. I work with couples who are feelings disconnected or stuck in unproductive communication patterns. Together, we work to strengthen your connection, improve how you communicate, and work to having a relationship you are excited to be in.
(980) 480-5992 View (980) 480-5992
Photo of Erin Byrne, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Erin Byrne
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Not accepting new clients
Counseling is a way to activate change, feel empowered, and create your own happiness, and I am here to join you on that journey! Whether you are coming in to work on yourself, or coming as a couple to work on your relationship, I am here to help. I utilize an integrative approach which includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques and collaboration. Together, we can work towards your goals and make positive changes.
Counseling is a way to activate change, feel empowered, and create your own happiness, and I am here to join you on that journey! Whether you are coming in to work on yourself, or coming as a couple to work on your relationship, I am here to help. I utilize an integrative approach which includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques and collaboration. Together, we can work towards your goals and make positive changes.
(704) 343-8486 View (704) 343-8486
Photo of Dr. David M Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Dr. David M Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
The simple truth is that being human presents us with some significant challenges, some of which are unavoidable. No one is going to escape sickness, aging, and death. However, the amount of suffering we experience depends mainly on our ability to process them. It's not just talking about your problems and feelings. My aim here is to work together as a team, to help you be the sort of person you want to be and build the kind of life you want to live. Part of this approach involves learning skills to handle stressful thoughts and feelings more effectively so they have less impact and influence over you.
The simple truth is that being human presents us with some significant challenges, some of which are unavoidable. No one is going to escape sickness, aging, and death. However, the amount of suffering we experience depends mainly on our ability to process them. It's not just talking about your problems and feelings. My aim here is to work together as a team, to help you be the sort of person you want to be and build the kind of life you want to live. Part of this approach involves learning skills to handle stressful thoughts and feelings more effectively so they have less impact and influence over you.
(980) 983-7349 View (980) 983-7349
Photo of Brooke Reiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Brooke Reiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Do you struggle with being your authentic self or feel held back by painful experiences? You're not alone. I offer a warm, affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients to explore identity, heal from rejection, and feel truly seen. I also specialize in EMDR, helping individuals process trauma, reduce distress, and reconnect with their inner strength. Whether you’re seeking support for past wounds or identity-related challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you. As a member of the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities, I bring empathy, safety, and deep understanding to every session.
Do you struggle with being your authentic self or feel held back by painful experiences? You're not alone. I offer a warm, affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients to explore identity, heal from rejection, and feel truly seen. I also specialize in EMDR, helping individuals process trauma, reduce distress, and reconnect with their inner strength. Whether you’re seeking support for past wounds or identity-related challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you. As a member of the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities, I bring empathy, safety, and deep understanding to every session.
(704) 275-9184 View (704) 275-9184
Photo of Morgan Rodgers, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Morgan Rodgers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. I would love to help you learn some new skills to cope with your concerns. By learning new skills, you will be able to apply them when you need them to meet not only your short term goals but your long term goals as well. I work with ages 11 and older. Some theoretical orientations that I use are Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Radically Open DBT, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. I use a comprehensive approach to therapy and determine which method is best suited for each client.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. I would love to help you learn some new skills to cope with your concerns. By learning new skills, you will be able to apply them when you need them to meet not only your short term goals but your long term goals as well. I work with ages 11 and older. Some theoretical orientations that I use are Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Radically Open DBT, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. I use a comprehensive approach to therapy and determine which method is best suited for each client.
(704) 734-9064 View (704) 734-9064
Photo of Deborah N Simmons - Intentional Steps Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Intentional Steps Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Huntersville, NC 28078
Greetings! I am Deborah Simmons a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I am a proud graduate of North Caroliana Agricultural and Technical State University where I earned my Bachelor of Social Work followed by a Master of Social Work from University of New England. With 15 years of dedicated experience in the field of Social Work my background is rooted in Child Welfare and at-risk youth.
Greetings! I am Deborah Simmons a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I am a proud graduate of North Caroliana Agricultural and Technical State University where I earned my Bachelor of Social Work followed by a Master of Social Work from University of New England. With 15 years of dedicated experience in the field of Social Work my background is rooted in Child Welfare and at-risk youth.
(980) 268-2687 View (980) 268-2687
Photo of Alyssa Daughety, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Alyssa Daughety
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I work with adolescents and adults (10-40) struggling with borderline personality disorder, OCD, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. They need support in developing healthier coping skills, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. Their goal is to heal, rebuild self-worth, and create a balanced, fulfilling life, mainly focusing on the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals and women face.
I work with adolescents and adults (10-40) struggling with borderline personality disorder, OCD, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. They need support in developing healthier coping skills, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. Their goal is to heal, rebuild self-worth, and create a balanced, fulfilling life, mainly focusing on the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals and women face.
(704) 850-5867 View (704) 850-5867
Photo of Dr. Justina Floyd, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, NCC
Dr. Justina Floyd
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, NCC
4 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Waitlist for new clients
While I am on a waitlist currently, I have 2 amazing practitioners working with me who do have immediate availability. We will collaboratively work to restore the true, authentic you; to unlock your fullest potential. ​I seek to walk alongside gender-diverse and women clients, as well as non-traditional couples, as they rediscover who they are without the pressure or stigmas of who they "should" be. I believe that your treatment should be tailored to you; offering an integrative approach which includes different therapeutic modalities based upon your needs and not simply to check the "correct" boxes.
While I am on a waitlist currently, I have 2 amazing practitioners working with me who do have immediate availability. We will collaboratively work to restore the true, authentic you; to unlock your fullest potential. ​I seek to walk alongside gender-diverse and women clients, as well as non-traditional couples, as they rediscover who they are without the pressure or stigmas of who they "should" be. I believe that your treatment should be tailored to you; offering an integrative approach which includes different therapeutic modalities based upon your needs and not simply to check the "correct" boxes.
(704) 286-8668 View (704) 286-8668
Photo of Amy Dombrosky, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Amy Dombrosky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Waitlist for new clients
Are you frustrated because therapy just isn't working? Sometimes traditional talk therapy just isn't enough. EMDR is a unique form of therapy that targets the negative beliefs that are rooted in our past traumas and allows us to replace those thoughts with more adaptive beliefs. With EMDR therapy, you will quickly see movement to healthier thought process and feel less driven by your emotions. Together we will develop coping strategies and restore healthy patterns to assist in regulating your symptoms.
Are you frustrated because therapy just isn't working? Sometimes traditional talk therapy just isn't enough. EMDR is a unique form of therapy that targets the negative beliefs that are rooted in our past traumas and allows us to replace those thoughts with more adaptive beliefs. With EMDR therapy, you will quickly see movement to healthier thought process and feel less driven by your emotions. Together we will develop coping strategies and restore healthy patterns to assist in regulating your symptoms.
(704) 389-3339 View (704) 389-3339
Photo of Faith Allman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Faith Allman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Huntersville, NC 28078
Faith Allman, LCSW, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find lasting healing. Serving clients at LifeStance Health in North Carolina, Faith utilizes a clientcentered approach, empowering her clients to take control of their therapy experience. With a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Faith provides the tools necessary for positive change. Faith is passionate about supporting women, especially those navigating preteen years, pregnancy, and parenting.
Faith Allman, LCSW, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find lasting healing. Serving clients at LifeStance Health in North Carolina, Faith utilizes a clientcentered approach, empowering her clients to take control of their therapy experience. With a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Faith provides the tools necessary for positive change. Faith is passionate about supporting women, especially those navigating preteen years, pregnancy, and parenting.
(980) 350-1794 View (980) 350-1794
Photo of Marla Page, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Marla Page
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Online Only
My ideal client is ready for growth, even if they feel overwhelmed or stuck. They may be navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or family stress. Often high-functioning externally, they struggle internally with worry, self-doubt, or communication difficulties. They want healthier relationships, stronger boundaries, practical coping tools, and lasting change—not quick fixes. Together, we focus on insight, resilience, and meaningful progress.
My ideal client is ready for growth, even if they feel overwhelmed or stuck. They may be navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or family stress. Often high-functioning externally, they struggle internally with worry, self-doubt, or communication difficulties. They want healthier relationships, stronger boundaries, practical coping tools, and lasting change—not quick fixes. Together, we focus on insight, resilience, and meaningful progress.
(980) 575-5792 View (980) 575-5792
Photo of Tiffany Buie Chepke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IHWC
Tiffany Buie Chepke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IHWC
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the chaos of life, stressed over relationships, alone even when surrounded by others? The first step to taking control of life is the hardest, and I would love the opportunity to help you reach your optimal life vision.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the chaos of life, stressed over relationships, alone even when surrounded by others? The first step to taking control of life is the hardest, and I would love the opportunity to help you reach your optimal life vision.
(704) 800-3816 View (704) 800-3816
Photo of Katelyn Krieger, Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Katelyn Krieger
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Huntersville, NC 28078
Katie Krieger, LCMHC, is a therapist at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate, individualized care in North and South Carolina. Using an integrative approach rooted in Reality Therapy, Katie helps clients focus on the present and how their choices impact their well-being, empowering them to make meaningful changes. Katie specializes in anxiety, depression, and women’s issues, with a focus on supporting clients through post-partum depression, reproductive challenges, and grief.Katie Krieger, LCMHC, is a therapist at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate, individualized care in North and South Carolina. Using an integrative
Katie Krieger, LCMHC, is a therapist at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate, individualized care in North and South Carolina. Using an integrative approach rooted in Reality Therapy, Katie helps clients focus on the present and how their choices impact their well-being, empowering them to make meaningful changes. Katie specializes in anxiety, depression, and women’s issues, with a focus on supporting clients through post-partum depression, reproductive challenges, and grief.Katie Krieger, LCMHC, is a therapist at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate, individualized care in North and South Carolina. Using an integrative
(980) 577-4045 View (980) 577-4045
Photo of Arley Smith, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Arley Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Huntersville, NC 28078
Arley Smith, LCMHC, helps children, teens, and adults across North Carolina build practical skills to manage anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence. At LifeStance Health, she provides individual and couples therapy in a supportive, structured environment where clients can address concerns such as ADHD, depression, and trauma while developing healthier patterns for daily living and relationships.
Arley Smith, LCMHC, helps children, teens, and adults across North Carolina build practical skills to manage anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence. At LifeStance Health, she provides individual and couples therapy in a supportive, structured environment where clients can address concerns such as ADHD, depression, and trauma while developing healthier patterns for daily living and relationships.
(704) 459-8471 View (704) 459-8471
Photo of Jenn Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Jenn Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I’m a neurodivergent (ADHD-identifying) therapist, passionate about creating an environment where clients feel seen, heard, and accepted. My experience and particular interest includes working with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relational challenges, and life transitions.
I’m a neurodivergent (ADHD-identifying) therapist, passionate about creating an environment where clients feel seen, heard, and accepted. My experience and particular interest includes working with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relational challenges, and life transitions.
(704) 389-2689 View (704) 389-2689

See more therapy options for Huntersville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Huntersville, NC

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Huntersville, NC who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Self Esteem
71% Stress
70% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD
63% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
92% Aetna
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Huntersville, NC see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Huntersville?

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.